Why Smart Travelers Return to Europe in the Off-Season: Fall and Winter's Best-Kept Secrets
Reflect on what first sparked your passion for travel. Whatever it is, you'll rediscover it in its most authentic form during Europe's off-season. As the continent gradually reopens to vaccinated U.S. travelers, fall and winter offer the perfect opportunity to reignite your love for Europe.
If ancient traditions captivate you, they're showcased vividly this time of year. Art enthusiasts can admire masterpieces by Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Gentileschi with minimal crowds. And for those who cherish local interactions, you'll connect effortlessly with residents.
Europe feels most genuine from November to March—and delivers exceptional value. Weeklong guided tours start at just $769 per person with Escapes by Globus, featuring off-season discounts of 40%-80% for every traveler type.
For Off-the-Beaten-Path Explorers
With milder weather and fewer crowds, Europe's narrow streets and alleys are ideal for wandering now. Globus itineraries include free time for discovery, where even an hour can uncover hidden gems. Consult your Globus Tour Director and Local Guides for tips, like Lisbon's iconic Rua da Bianca de Duarte Belo—steep, cobbled, and lined with bars and balconies—or London's Leadenhall Market, a 19th-century covered market accessed via pedestrian alleys (familiar to Harry Potter fans as Diagon Alley's entrance, with markets dating to the 14th century).
Beyond famous spots, venture to Paris's Le Pagode—a Japanese pagoda transformed into a theater with silk walls, golden dragons, and painted warriors. In Madrid, explore its rising craft beer scene at tucked-away pubs recommended by your Local Host.
Endless possibilities await, crowd-free.
For Art Enthusiasts
Skip the selfie-stick chaos of peak season and experience Europe's museums intimately during off-season. Your visit becomes a true artistic immersion.
Popular sites like Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum (Rembrandt's The Night Watch, Vermeers) or Madrid's Prado (Goya, Velázquez, El Greco, plus Italian masters and its 2023 bicentennial exhibits) often have long lines. Globus VIP access skips them entirely—also at Barcelona's Sagrada Família, London's St. Paul's Cathedral, Rome's Colosseum, and more. Stay warm in your coat, ignoring any envious glances.
For Hassle-Free Travelers
Off-season savings don't mean skimping on luxury. Escapes by Globus delivers deluxe transport, expert Tour Directors, Local Guides, and centrally located hotels. Signature Local Favorites elevate every tour.
In Modena, savor aceto balsamico tradizionale di Modena—the 'king of vinegars,' a culinary heirloom once traded like treasure and included in dowries.
In Greece (home to over 4,000 traditional dances), master the sirtaki from Zorba the Greek and craft tzatziki—a skill for future gatherings.
For Festival Lovers
London's Christmas magic starts in November: Oxford Street lights, markets, ice rinks. Harrods' designer windows dazzle, the Shard glows tallest in Western Europe, and Covent Garden hosts the quirky Great Christmas Pudding Race.
Venice's Carnevale revives medieval masked revelry in February; stock up on papier-mâché masks (volto, colombina, or bauta) via your Local Guide. Amsterdam's Light Festival (late Nov-Jan) features 30+ installations by global artists like Ai Weiwei's 'Thinline' laser.
For Solo Travelers
Solo travel searches surged 600% last year. Globus provides group security plus waived single supplements on most European Escape tours in off-season (limited availability—call soon).
