Europe in Spring vs. Summer: When’s the Best Time for a Coach Tour?

Article Date: Tuesday, 25 March 2025
Categories: coach tour, River Cruise, Europe Travel Tips, Best Time to Travel
Tags: Britain, Europe, Europe coach tour, global coach tours, BusToursEurope, CoachTravelTips, BudgetEuropeTours

Planning a coach tour of Europe? One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is when to go. Spring and summer both offer unique experiences, but which is best for you? In this guide, we’ll compare Europe in spring vs. summer to help you choose the perfect time for your adventure.


Weather & Climate: What to Expect

  • Spring (March-May): Enjoy mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. Expect temperatures between 10-20°C in most regions, with some unpredictable showers.

    spring flowers

  • Summer (June-August): Warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from 20-35°C, depending on the destination. Popular spots can get hot, especially in Southern Europe.

Best for: If you prefer cooler weather and green landscapes, spring is ideal. If you love sunshine and warm evenings, summer is the way to go.


Crowds & Attractions: How Busy Does It Get?

  • Spring: Fewer tourists mean shorter queues at major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Colosseum, and Sagrada Familia.

  • Summer: Peak season brings large crowds, especially in iconic cities like Paris, Rome, and Amsterdam. Expect long lines and packed streets.

Best for: Travellers who want a more relaxed experience will prefer spring. If you thrive in a lively, bustling atmosphere, summer is perfect.

Paris Eiffel Tower Arch


Cost & Availability: Budgeting for Your Trip

  • Spring: Lower demand means better deals on flights, hotels, and coach tours. You’ll find more availability and discounts on Europe tour packages.

  • Summer: High season means higher prices and limited availability. Booking in advance is essential to secure good deals.

Best for: Budget-conscious travellers will benefit from spring pricing. If budget is less of a concern, summer offers endless travel opportunities.


Festivals & Events: Seasonal Highlights

  • Spring: Experience the Tulip Festival in the Netherlands, Easter celebrations across Europe, and Spring Wine Festivals in France and Italy.

  • Summer: Enjoy Bastille Day in France, Edinburgh Fringe Festival in Scotland, and Oktoberfest pre-festivities in Germany.

Best for: If you love flowers and cultural celebrations, spring is ideal. If you’re into big festivals and open-air events, summer is unbeatable.


Scenery & Nature: What You’ll See

  • Spring: Vibrant fields of flowers, snow-capped mountains, and lush green countryside.

  • Summer: Golden beaches, bright blue lakes, and sun-soaked vineyards.

Best for: Spring travellers will love colourful landscapes, while summer visitors can soak up the best of Europe’s coastlines.


Final Verdict: Which Season is Right for You?

Factor Spring (March-May) Summer (June-August)
Weather Mild, occasional rain Hot, sunny, potential heatwaves
Crowds Fewer tourists, relaxed Busy, long queues
Cost Lower prices, more availability Higher prices, early booking needed
Festivals Spring festivals, Easter events Major summer festivals & parades
Scenery Blooming flowers, lush greenery Sunny beaches, clear blue lakes

Conclusion: If you want a quieter, more affordable trip with stunning natural beauty, spring is the best time for your Europe coach tour. If you love warm weather, lively festivals, and don’t mind the crowds, summer is your season!

Ready to book your Europe coach tour? Explore our top-rated Europe bus tours and start planning your perfect getaway!