2024 Travel Plans: Here’s Where To Go (& Where To Avoid)

With Blue Monday (15 January 2024) fast approaching and UK temperatures plummeting (again), you might be eyeing up some sunny European holidays. Brits are blessed with our close proximity to Europe, with its varied temperatures, terrains and cultural activities. That said, some places shine brighter at different times of the year, and we certainly don’t want a wasted trip. Luckily, the travel experts at Sky Vertigo have collated a handy month-by-month guide to Europe, sharing where is best to visit and when – and where we should avoid.

European Holidays 2024: Where To Go & When

‘Europe’s diverse tapestry of cultures and landscapes beckons travellers year-round, but knowing when and where to go can make all the difference in experiencing the continent’s beauty without the bustle,’ says a spokesperson for Sky Vertigo. Here’s exactly how to avoid high costs and crowds, and discover a side of Europe that is affordable and tranquil, and equally as breathtaking as you imagine.

Seville

January

Avoid: France & Germany

Post-New Year renovations and a general slowdown can dampen the experience.

Visit: Andalusia, Spain

Enjoy mild weather and fewer tourists in cities like Seville and Granada, offering better value and quiet charm.

Reykjavik

February

Avoid: Venice, Italy & Tromsø, Norway

Avoid Venice during the overcrowded Carnival, and Tromsø during peak aurora season, both with inflated costs.

Visit: Reykjavik, Iceland

Witness the Northern Lights with fewer crowds and lower prices compared to Norway.

Sicily

March

Avoid: Algarve, Portugal

Avoid Portugal’s Algarve coast due to unpredictable weather impacting beach activities.

Visit: Sicily, Italy

As spring emerges, enjoy pleasant temperatures, historical sites, and blooming landscapes without the summer price tag.

Istanbul

April

Avoid: Greece

Avoid Greece during the late Easter rush, especially in religious and historical sites like Athens.

Visit: Istanbul, Turkey

Experience a blend of culture and spring beauty with fewer tourists and reasonable prices.

May

Avoid: Spain

Avoid Spain’s major cities like Barcelona, where pre-summer price hikes begin.

Visit: Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Before the peak season, enjoy beautiful beaches, clear waters, and historical towns at a fraction of the cost.

Riga, Latvia

June

Avoid: Sweden & Denmark

Near 24-hour daylight attracts tourists, leading to higher costs.

Visit: Riga, Latvia

Experience the White Nights with more budget-friendly options and a rich cultural scene.

Bulgaria

July

Avoid: Italy & Croatia’s Mediterranean Coast

Avoid both due to peak prices and crowds.

Visit: The Black Sea Coast of Bulgaria

Discover beautiful beaches, cultural heritage, and low-cost resorts away from the Mediterranean rush.

Kotor, Montenegro

August

Avoid: Latvia & Estonia

As more travellers uncover these Baltic gems, there are unexpected crowds and costs.

Visit: Kotor, Montenegro

Enjoy stunning Adriatic coastlines and medieval towns without the intense tourist rush.

Douro Valley, Portugal

September

Avoid: Bordeaux, France & Munich, Germany

Avoid Bordeaux during the wine harvest and Munich during Oktoberfest, both with escalated prices and crowds.

Visit: Douro Valley, Portugal

Savour the wine harvest season with fewer tourists and more affordable prices than France.

Cyprus

October

Avoid: Greece & Italy

These destinations are still popular with lingering tourists and mild weather.

Visit: Cyprus

Experience warm weather, historical sites, and beautiful beaches without the crowds and high costs.

Krakow, Poland

November

Avoid: Vienna, Austria & Prague, Czech Republic

Pre-holiday events begin to drive up prices and crowds.

Visit: Krakow, Poland

Enjoy rich history, culture, and Christmas markets starting to sparkle without the high season prices.

Budapest, Hungary

December

Avoid: Germany, Austria, Belgium & the Netherlands

All very crowded due to Christmas markets – unless that’s what you’re looking for.

Visit: Budapest, Hungary

Delight in festive markets, thermal baths, and a vibrant holiday spirit, all while keeping your budget in check.