Seasonal Travel: Where to Go in Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn

Hester Walker



Each season offers unique opportunities for travel, and if you live in Portugal or plan to travel from this beautiful country, a wide range of amazing destinations awaits you. Let’s take a closer look at the best places to visit depending on the time of year so you can plan your ideal vacation.


Winter: The Magic of Snow and Festive Atmosphere


When Portugal enters its mild winter with cool mornings and warm days, some travelers long for a true winter fairy tale. In this case, it’s worth heading to the mountainous regions of Europe, where snow creates an unforgettable atmosphere. The Swiss Alps, with their famous resorts like St. Moritz and Davos, offer not only ideal skiing conditions but also cozy chalets with fireplaces where you can warm up with mulled wine after an active day on the slopes.
If you prefer a milder climate but still want to experience the winter mood, Prague and Vienna in December turn into true Christmas capitals. Their central squares fill with markets, where the air smells of roasted chestnuts and gingerbread, and the evening lights create a magical atmosphere.
For those who want to escape the cold entirely, the Canary Islands are the perfect choice. Even in the middle of winter, temperatures here rarely drop below +20°C, and the ocean remains warm thanks to the Gulf Stream. Tenerife with its volcanic landscapes and La Palma with its pristine starry skies are excellent options for a winter getaway.


Spring: Blooming Landscapes and Gentle Sunshine


Spring is perhaps the most romantic time to travel. Nature awakens, the air is filled with the scent of blooming plants, and the tourist season hasn’t yet reached its peak, making trips especially comfortable. One of the most impressive destinations during this period is the Netherlands. In April, the flower festival takes place here, and the endless tulip fields around Amsterdam turn into a sea of colors.
Speaking of warmer destinations, the Greek islands in May are a true paradise for those who love the sea without the summer heat and crowds. Santorini with its whitewashed houses and turquoise waters, Crete with its ancient Minoan palaces, and Rhodes with its medieval old town – all are especially beautiful in spring.
Let’s not forget Portugal itself. In spring, Lisbon and Porto literally come into bloom. The streets of Alfama are filled with the scent of blooming jasmine, and in city parks like Monsanto or Estrela Garden, you can enjoy a riot of colors. It’s the perfect time for long walks and discovering new corners of the country.


Summer: Beaches, Festivals, and Unforgettable Adventures


Summer is traditionally the time for beach vacations, and many Portuguese head to the Algarve coast or Madeira. However, if you’re looking for variety, consider Croatia. Its Adriatic coast with thousands of islands, crystal-clear water, and historic cities like Dubrovnik offers the perfect balance between beach relaxation and cultural experiences.
For lovers of active holidays, Norway is a great choice. In summer, you can go hiking through the famous fjords, witness the midnight sun, and even swim in crystal-clear mountain lakes. Add a cruise along the coast with stops in picturesque fishing villages, and you’ve got a real adventure.
Urban travelers in summer should consider Barcelona or Rome. Yes, it can be hot, but this is when the brightest festivals and open-air concerts take place. Moreover, long summer evenings are perfect for leisurely walks and dinners on open terraces.


Autumn: Golden Colors and Gastronomic Journeys


Autumn is when nature paints the landscapes in warm tones, and tourist crowds dwindle, making travel cozier and more relaxing. In Portugal, the Douro region is especially beautiful at this time. The vineyards covering the hills turn golden and crimson, and local wineries offer tastings of the finest port wines.
If you’re looking for experiences abroad, Tuscany in autumn is a dream for gourmets and lovers of beauty. Grape and olive harvests, truffle festivals in San Miniato, and warm days perfect for excursions through Florence and Siena – all create a unique atmosphere.
For those looking for something unusual, Iceland in September–October is an excellent choice. During this time, you can already see the Northern Lights, and the weather is still mild enough for traveling around the country. Waterfalls, geysers, and lava fields look especially impressive against the backdrop of autumn colors.


Conclusion


Travel is not just a change of scenery but an opportunity to feel the uniqueness of each season. In winter, you can ski in the Alps or soak up the sun in the Canaries; in spring – admire blooming tulips in the Netherlands or explore the Greek islands; in summer – sunbathe on Croatian beaches or explore Norway’s fjords; and in autumn – enjoy wine tours in the Douro or gastronomic discoveries in Tuscany. The key is to choose what resonates with your desires, and then every trip will be unforgettable.

Best Destinations

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