Western Europe in May

May through September offers the best weather, but July-August brings crowds that turn the Louvre into a sardine can. April and October hit the sweet spot — mild temps, fewer tourists, and shoulder-season hotel rates. Spring (April-May) brings blooming gardens and longer daylight, perfect for outdoor markets and sidewalk cafes. Summer (June-August) means festival season, outdoor dining, and 9pm sunsets, but expect queues at major attractions and premium prices everywhere. Early fall (September-October) delivers harvest season in wine regions, comfortable walking weather, and museums you can actually move through. Winter works for Christmas markets in Germany and Austria, but many coastal restaurants close, and daylight ends by 4pm. Book summer accommodations by February. Spring and fall allow more spontaneity, but popular restaurants still fill up fast.