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What is the Best Time to Book Flights to Europe?

The best time to book flights to Europe

Planning a trip to Europe? One of the most important decisions you'll make is when to book your flights. The best time to book flights for Europe can influence not only the price of your ticket but also the overall experience of your vacation. If you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the cheapest price, booking at the right time ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.

A photo of a footpath next to the river and buildings in the background during sunset

Why timing your flight to Europe matters

The best time to book isn’t just about getting the cheapest deal. It’s also about:

  • Enjoying the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities
  • Experiencing cultural events and festivals at their peak
  • Avoiding large tourist crowds for a more relaxed experience
  • Getting the best ticket prices while balancing comfort and affordability

Understanding seasonal trends and booking at the right time will help you get the most out of your European adventure. Keep reading to find out the ideal times to book flights for Europe based on key factors like events, prices, and crowdedness, so you can plan the perfect trip.

Ibiza, Spain

Best times to book Europe flights based on travel goals

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Europe is the ideal time to book flights for those who enjoy festivals, outdoor activities, and beautiful weather. With long sunny days, many cities and regions come alive with events and activities.

  • Festivals & Major Events: European summer is packed with world-famous festivals, like Glastonbury in the UK, Primavera Sound in Spain, and Tomorrowland in Belgium. To experience these events, book your flight 3-6 months in advance to get the best deals and ensure availability.
  • Perfect Weather: Most European cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Rome offer warm temperatures during summer - perfect for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and visiting iconic landmarks. It’s also a great time for a beach holiday in cities like Santorini, Ibiza, and the Amalfi Coast.


Key considerations:

  • Expect large crowds in major cities and tourist hotspots.
  • Prices are at their highest due to increased demand.
  • Best to book well in advance (3-6 months before travel).

Rothenburg, Germany

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Europe for beautiful natural landscapes and fewer crowds. The weather is still mild, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the summer rush.

  • Autumn colours: Europe’s landscapes transform with vibrant autumn colours, especially in places like Germany’s Black Forest, the Swiss Alps, and the French countryside. These months are also perfect for hiking or scenic drives.
  • Fewer crowds: Autumn allows you to enjoy major cities such as Paris and Rome without the summer crowds. You’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Experience Oktoberfest in Germany and grape harvest festivals in Italy and France.


Key considerations:

  • Milder weather perfect for sightseeing.
  • Lower accommodation costs compared to summer.
  • Best to book 2-4 months in advance for ideal pricing and availability.
Snow covered mountain under blue sky in Switzerland

Winter (December-February)

For those who love the holiday spirit, winter in Europe is a magical experience. The festive Christmas markets and world-class ski resorts make winter one of the best times to visit Europe.

  • Christmas Markets: Cities like Vienna, Munich, and London are famous for their charming Christmas markets filled with holiday cheer, mulled wine, and beautiful handmade gifts.
  • Winter Sports: If skiing is your passion, head to the Alps in countries like Switzerland, Austria, and France for some of the best slopes in the world. Check out our blogs on the cheapest places to ski and the must have luxury ski products for your trip.


Key considerations:

  • Cities are beautifully decorated but are considerably colder.
  • For Christmas travel, book 3-6 months ahead to secure reasonable fares.
  • For ski resorts, book 4+ months in advance to secure accommodation availability.
Eiffel Tower in Paris, France

Spring (March-May)

Spring in Europe offers the perfect balance of mild weather and fewer tourists, making it one of the best times to book flights for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.

  • Floral Festivals: The Netherlands is famous for its tulip season, and France and England have beautiful gardens in full bloom. Spring is also the season for major flower festivals and outdoor garden tours.
  • Mild Weather: Spring means comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor adventures without the intense heat of summer. Perfect for walking tours, exploring villages, and enjoying outdoor cafes.
  • Great for hiking in Switzerland, vineyard tours in France, and river cruises in Portugal.



Key considerations:

  • Fewer tourists compared to summer.
  • Great time for cultural and nature-based travel.
  • Best to book flights 1-3 months in advance for optimal weather and availability.
A crowd of people sitting at a conference

Best times to book flights based on crowds

When should I book my flight to Europe if I want it to be less crowded?

If you prefer a quieter experience, avoid peak times and plan around tourism trends. Consider travelling in Europe's shoulder seasons, the period between the high and low of a travel destination.

  • Winter (January) offers quiet city breaks in Paris, Rome, and Vienna, while March-April is great for London, Amsterdam, and Barcelona before Easter crowds arrive.
  • Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for Southern France, Italy, and Greece, with warm weather and fewer tourists.
  • Avoid peak times in June-August (summer), mid-December to early January (Christmas), and Easter holidays when Europe is at its busiest.

Airplane departing from airport

Cheapest time to book flights to Europe

Is there a cheapest day to book flights?

Many believe flights are cheapest on Tuesdays, but data doesn’t support this. Airline prices depend on supply and demand, so traveling off-peak is the best way to save. You can read more about this on our blog post.


If you need to travel during peak seasons, consider:

  • Travelling midweek when demand is usually lower
  • Choosing a ticket with a stop or two on the way to your destination
  • Taking advantage of Alternative Airlines' Buy Now, Pay Later options to spread the cost of your flights into manageable payments, making it easier to manage your finances when traveling during peak seasons.

Check out our page on how to find the cheapest flights to Europe for more tips on how to secure the best deal for your trip.

Two fingers pointing to destinations on a map with passports and boarding passes

Europe flight booking tips

Here are some key tips to consider when planning your trip:

  • Compare fares across airlines – Prices can vary depending on the airline and route. Use our Best Fare Finder tool to compare fares from over 600 airlines in one place to find the best price.
  • Be flexible with your dates – Flying mid-week or during off-peak hours can save you money compared to weekend departures.
  • Consider alternative airports – Major hubs tend to have higher fares, while smaller airports nearby may offer cheaper options and more budget airlines.
  • Take advantage of flexible payment options – With Alternative Airlines, you can Buy Now and Pay Later, making it easier to secure your flights in advance and spread the cost over time.
  • Book early, but not too early – Flights are usually cheapest 2-6 months in advance for international travel, so start checking prices early but avoid booking too far ahead.

Following these tips and using a trusted booking platform like Alternative Airlines makes sure your flight booking experience is smoother and more convenient.

Ready to book your flights to Europe?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest month to fly to Europe?

The cheapest months to fly to Europe are usually January, February, and November. These months fall outside of major holidays and peak tourist seasons, leading to lower flight prices.

Is it cheaper to book flights to Europe on incognito mode?

Some people believe that flight prices go up after you search for them because websites track your interest using browser cookies. While incognito mode may prevent tracking, there's no clear proof that your searches actually affect ticket prices.


While we can't speak for other flight booking websites, we want to assure you that this is not something we do at Alternative Airlines. The prices we display are pulled from a live system, meaning fares are always set by the airline itself, not influenced by your search activity.

Do flight prices for Europe drop at midnight?

There is no solid evidence to suggest that flight prices drop at midnight. Airline pricing is dynamic and fluctuates based on demand, not the time of day.

What is the best time of year to visit Europe for good weather?

The best time for ideal weather in Europe is usually spring (March-May) or early fall (September-October). Temperatures are pleasant, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer or the cold of winter.

Is summer the best time for events in Europe?

Yes, summer is the prime time for Europe’s biggest festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival, La Tomatina in Spain, and Glastonbury! If events are your priority, summer is the best time to book, but be prepared for higher prices and crowded destinations.

When is the best time to book flights to Europe from Australia for European summer?

European summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather, long days, and major festivals, but flights and accommodation are at their most expensive, so booking as early as possible is essential. Flights from Australia to Europe with stopovers in Dubai, Singapore, or Doha are often more affordable and more comfortable than direct routes.

To manage costs more easily, Alternative Airlines offers Buy Now, Pay Later options, allowing you to spread the cost of your flights while securing the best deals.

Is it safe to book my trip to Europe with Alternative Airlines?

Yes! Alternative Airlines is a trusted and secure platform for booking flights with hundreds of airlines worldwide. Here’s why you can book with confidence:

  • Secure payment options – We use industry-standard encryption and fraud protection to keep your payment details safe.
  • Flexible payment plans – Choose from Buy Now, Pay Later options to spread the cost of your flights over time.
  • Trusted by thousands of customers – We have verified customer reviews and a strong reputation for providing a smooth booking experience.
  • 7 days a week customer support – Our dedicated team is available to help with any questions or concerns about your booking.
Is it better to book a direct flight or a flight with stopovers to Europe?

When booking flights to Europe, you’ll need to decide between direct flights and flights with stopovers. Direct flights are faster and more convenient, making them ideal for those who want to minimise travel time. However, they are often more expensive.

Flights with stopovers can be more budget-friendly and sometimes significantly cheaper than direct routes. Common stopover cities for Europe-bound flights include Dubai, Singapore, Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Hong Kong, offering well-connected hubs with major international airlines.

Some airlines even provide extended stopover programs, allowing travellers to explore an extra city before reaching their final destination. If you value speed and convenience, a direct flight is best, but if you're looking to save money or enjoy a short layover experience, a stopover flight may be the better choice.