Unsure of the best time of year to cross the Atlantic and explore the Old Continent? Smart Coverage Insurance take a look at four key factors you should consider, namely: climate, crowdedness, costs and major events.

Europe boasts a wide range of options to travelers, and has its pros and cons depending on the country and the season you decide to visit. From the beautiful fjords and cascades of Norway to the vibrant and colorful charm in the sizzling heat of Portugal’s Algarve, there is something for everyone.

While choice is certainly in abundance, it is always advised to study what is on offer around Europe depending on the time of year. Flights and travel insurance can be cheaper depending on the time of year, but as many tourist hotspots are dead in winter months, avoid disappointment by researching what is on prior to making a choice to visit a particular country.

Climate Differs From Country to Country

While a visit to the South of France or Sicily on most days in July will more than likely result in a sunny day, the same cannot be said for a hike around Scotland or a jaunt around the Finnish coast. Northern Europe tends to be cooler and more unpredictable in the summer but is always particularly cold in the winter. Expect the chance of snow and heavy rain if visiting the likes of Ireland, Britain, and Germany between November and February.

Spain, Greece and other southern European countries will always offer more stability in the warmer months, and are also pretty mild in the winter.

The Busiest Time of the Year

July and August are generally the peak months in Europe, and those who travel in the summer months will have the most chance of encountering big crowds. For tourists heading to the warmer climates and beaches of Iberia, France, Italy, and Greece, expect high demand for hotels and accommodation.

In winter, the same can be said for the ski resorts of Andorra, the Alps, and Austria.

Costs

For many areas in Europe, the summer sun is essentially the key season for tourism. As a result, expect price hikes in everything from food and drink to cab fares and entry fees to clubs and shows.

Visiting these areas prior to the summer months will get you better value for your money and generally cheaper airfares and accommodation. Things are even cheaper in the winter months, but you will find that there may not be a lot going on in some parts.

Key Events

Summer in Europe, like in the United States and other nations, is festival season. Music events like Glastonbury in England, Fete de la Musique in France and Primavera Sound in Portugal and Spain are top attractions featuring the best acts in music. Outdoor parades and cultural events are also big this time of the year and are spread throughout the continent.

In spring, Ireland’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations attract almost three times the size of the population of Dublin, while other religious festivals in Italy and Spain are common. Winter is generally the season for Christmas markets, with Berlin and Bath in England being two of the most famous. Autumn’s Oktoberfest in Munich is perhaps the best known and most celebrated event of the fall season (note, it actually starts in September most years).

Wherever and when you decide to travel will determine what is happening in Europe. Factoring in overall cost, the weather and how vibrant your destination will be will give you a better understanding of what best works for you.