European school holidays in July and August spell full hotels and packed streets. June and September are slightly cooler (a welcome respite from the 90-degree temps of high summer) and less dense crowds.
Off Season: November to March
Hotels and restaurants empty and many close for the winter season; others drop their prices considerably. The weather, which averages in the 50s, is unreliable, but the winter sun peeks out fairly often.
Sweet Spot: April to May; October
European package-holiday companies are increasingly closing in on what used to be quiet months. The best times to visit are May and October, when the weather is perfect (average: 75°F) and the streets are calm.
