What is shoulder season, and is it worth travelling then?
Short answer
Shoulder season is the month or two either side of a destination's peak — typically April–May and September–October in Europe. You get most of the good weather at a significant discount, with thinner crowds and everything still open.
What you gain
- Prices 30–50% below peak on flights and accommodation
- Timed-entry tickets still available closer to the date
- Restaurants that take walk-ins and staff who aren't exhausted
- Comfortable walking temperatures instead of midday heat
What you give up
Shorter days, some chance of poor weather, and — in seasonal destinations — reduced ferry schedules, closed mountain roads or shut hotels. September holds summer sea temperatures around the Mediterranean; May does not, so a beach trip and a city trip have different shoulder windows.