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Southern Europe Travel Guide 

Southern Europe is focused on the three peninsulas located in the extreme south of the European continent. These are the Iberian Peninsula, the Italian Peninsula, and the Balkan Peninsula.[14][15] These three peninsulas are separated from the rest of Europe by towering mountain ranges, respectively by the Pyrenees, the Alps and the Balkan Mountains. The location of these peninsulas in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as their mountainous reliefs, provide them with very different types of climates (mainly subtropical Mediterranean) from the rest of the continent

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Best Time to visit Southern Europe  

The best time to visit Southern European countries is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October), when you can enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. However, summer (June to August) is ideal for beach holidays, despite being crowded and more expensive, while winter (November to March) is good for city breaks, skiing, and escaping the cold in more southerly coastal areas like Spain or Cyprus. 

Spring (April - May)

  • Why visit: Pleasant temperatures, beautiful blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists compared to summer.

  • Good for: Sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying the coasts before the peak season.

  • Consider: It's ideal for those who want warm weather without the intense summer heat. 

Summer (June - August)

  • Why visit: This is the peak season for beach holidays and swimming in the warm Mediterranean and Aegean seas.

  • Good for: Sunbathing and water activities.

  • Consider: This is the most expensive and crowded time, especially in July and August, so book well in advance. 

Autumn (September - October)

  • Why visit: Warm temperatures continue, but with fewer crowds and lower prices.

  • Good for: Sightseeing, hiking, and cultural events like harvest festivals.

  • Consider: The weather is still warm enough for swimming in early September, particularly in the southern regions. 

Winter (November - March)

  • Why visit: Milder temperatures than Northern Europe, with fewer tourists and better prices.

  • Good for: Visiting cities, enjoying Christmas markets (December), and escaping the cold elsewhere in Europe.

  • Consider: Some coastal areas and smaller towns may have limited hours or fewer activities. 

Getting Around in Southern Europe  

Getting around Southern Europe involves a mix of trains, buses, and rental cars, depending on your route and budget. High-speed trains are efficient for major city connections, while buses are a more budget-friendly option for reaching smaller towns. Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring less-connected or rural areas, but be prepared for costs like fuel, tolls, and parking. 

Transportation options

  • Trains:

    • Best for: Travel between major cities.

    • Pros: Fast, efficient, and a great way to see the scenery. Spain's high-speed train network is particularly impressive.

    • Cons: May not reach every smaller town.

    • Tip: Book tickets in advance to get better prices, especially for high-speed routes.

  • Buses:

    • Best for: Budget-conscious travel and reaching smaller towns.

    • Pros: Generally cheaper than trains and connect thousands of smaller towns that lack a railway station. Long-distance buses often have amenities like Wi-Fi and movies.

    • Cons: Travel times are typically longer than on trains.

    • Tip: Companies like ALSA operate extensive networks in regions like Andalucía.

  • Rental Cars:

    • Best for: Exploring rural areas and the coast, and for a flexible schedule.

    • Pros: Offers the most freedom to stop wherever you want and travel at your own pace.

    • Cons: Can be expensive due to fuel, tolls, parking fees, and insurance.

    • Tip: Use car comparison websites to find competitive rates, but be mindful of hidden costs like drop-off fees and insurance extras. 

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Tips for specific regions

  • Andalucía (Southern Spain): Combine high-speed trains for cities like Seville, Córdoba, and Granada with buses or a rental car for smaller coastal towns or more remote locations.

  • French Riviera (France): Utilize the Zou! regional bus network and local bus companies for travel between towns along the coast, or take the train for a quicker journey between major hubs.

  • Italy: Consider a mix of trains and low-cost flights for longer distances, booking in advance to avoid higher prices. 

General advice

  • Book in advance: For both trains and flights, booking ahead can significantly reduce costs.

  • Consider Blablacar: This ridesharing service is a popular and budget-friendly option for getting around Spain.

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essential travel tips for southern Europe

Essential travel tips for southern Europe include planning for hot weather by avoiding midday sun, carrying comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, and being aware of pickpockets in tourist areas. You should also book popular attractions in advance, pack light, and be prepared for different electrical outlets with an adapter. Remember to dress respectfully for churches and consider traveling during shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. 

Health and safety

  • Avoid the midday sun: Schedule outdoor activities for the morning or late afternoon to stay out of the most intense heat during summer.

  • Use sun protection: Apply sunscreen even when it's not summer, as the sun can be strong.

  • Be aware of pickpockets: Be vigilant in crowded areas like tourist sites, markets, and public transport hubs.

  • Dress for churches: Many churches have dress codes; cover your shoulders and knees to be allowed inside.

  • Mindful driving: If you rent a car, be prepared for assertive and fast-paced driving. 

Planning and packing

  • Book in advance: Purchase tickets online for popular attractions to save time and avoid long lines.

  • Pack light: Bring versatile, layered clothing and use soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases, which are easier to pack into small spaces.

  • Wear comfortable shoes: You will likely walk on cobblestone streets and hilly terrain, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must.

  • Pack a power adapter: Europe uses different electrical outlets and has a higher voltage. Bring a universal adapter and a car charger, especially if you plan to use multiple devices.

  • Plan for different currencies: Some countries in Southern Europe may not use the Euro, so be prepared to exchange currencies for different countries. 

Culture and itinerary

  • Embrace the "siesta": Many shops close during the midday hours, so use this time to rest, relax, or have lunch.

  • Build in flexibility: Leave some slack in your itinerary to account for unexpected delays or simply to relax. Don't overschedule yourself.

  • Consider your itinerary: For some regions like Andalusia, a rental car is more efficient for exploring smaller towns, while major cities are well-connected by train.

  • Travel during shoulder seasons: Consider traveling in April, May, September, or October for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices. 

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