An annual survey by hotel group Accor, shows that many travelers will deliberately avoid the high season in 2024, driven by the twin drivers of cost and fear of extreme heat. A total of 8,000 adults were surveyed in 7 European countries.
One in three respondents across Europe (32%) say they deliberately go on vacation off-season to cut costs, while one in five (19%) expect to do so to avoid the risk of heat waves. Last summer saw severe heat waves in southern Europe, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40C and forest fires in Portugal, Spain, Italy and Greece, including many popular vacation destinations.
When large numbers of travelers try to bypass the height of summer, it can extend the season in hot destinations. Some travel companies are taking note of this and have started offering vacations to destinations south of the Mediterranean year-round. But extending the season is not without complications, as tour operators must ensure that local facilities remain open in destinations that have traditionally been highly seasonal. School vacations will also be a major drag on any shift to the mid-season, potentially causing vacationers to look northward to cooler destinations.
Sevilla, Spain
The beautiful capital of Andalusia and its breathtaking architecture has a wide cultural and gastronomic offer and mild temperatures during the mid-season.
Sleeping Tip: Ibis Styles Sevilla City Santa Justa, within walking distance of Giralda, Plaza de España or the Sánchez Pizjuán stadium
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Lisbon, Portugal
The Portuguese capital has a wealth of monuments, views and gastronomic delights, with a vibrant nightlife and the unmissable sounds of fado music. With 290 days of sunshine a year, it is one of the best travel destinations in Europe.
Sleeping tip: Mama Shelter Lisbon, designer hotel in downtown.
Athens, Greece
From the Acropolis to the Parthenon, Athens’ rich history is a year-round delight. But the city has a more youthful side, with a relaxed café culture and art galleries that keep both local Athenians and tourists busy.
Sleeping tip: Novotel Athenes with 360° view of Athens and Acropolis from its rooftop terrace.
Florence, Italy
Florence, home to some of the world’s greatest art treasures, is packed with amazing museums, palaces and churches to satisfy even the most discerning culture seeker. With pleasant spring and fall temperatures, the in-between season can be the best time to visit “the cradle of the Renaissance.”
Sleeping tip: the charming B&B San Remigo, located in the city’s historic center, near the Palazzo Vecchio, the Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce.
Naples, is blossoming as the perfect spring destination, ideal for avoiding the summer crowds. In the off-season, the city reveals its charming architecture, including the Royal Palace and the Castel dell’Ovo. Discover authentic Neapolitan cuisine with delectable pizzas and enjoy culinary delights such as the local sfogliatella.
Sleeping tip: Il Fiore D’Oro Luxury , overlooking the quiet Italian streets and 1.7 km from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza shines as the ideal spring destination away from the summer crowds. The off-season reveals the island’s charm with quiet beaches and enchanting villages such as Dalt Vila, with its historic city walls. Discover local cuisine with fresh seafood such as bullit de peix (fish stew), and taste the refined flavors of hierbas, a traditional herbal liqueur.
Sleeping tip: Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay on Talamanca beach, a luxurious oasis of tranquility just 3km from Ibiza town .
