Lancashire holidaymakers: Here's where to go to make the most out of the weather across Europe
By Jon Peake
Published 5th May 2023, 12:52 BST
Updated 5th May 2023, 12:54 BST
Lancashire holidaymakers seeking sunshine on their European vacation this summer often want to know the best and worst countries to visit based on weather patterns.
Travel experts have researched the best and worst times to visit the ten most popular European countries for Britons currently planning their holidays.
Most of us are looking to jet away somewhere sunny and hot - destinations like Greece and Portugal are perfect summer holidays for sun seekers, with long daylight hours and highs of 30 degrees.
James Cole, founder of Panache Cruises said: “I think it’s essential to know what kind of weather each country has before planning your trip away.
“You may just think you’re landing in a sunny country like Spain or Greece where the temperature is going to be pleasantly warm. But extreme heat often comes unexpectedly across Europe and is significantly hotter than it often is in Britain, meaning the weather can easily ruin or even cancel your holiday."
These are the best and worst times to visit Europe ...
James Cole, founder of Panache Cruises said: “I think it’s essential to know what kind of weather each country has before planning your trip away.
5. Greece
Greece is known for its hot summers with beautiful sunsets throughout the summer months with the temperature reaching into the mid 30s in both the north and south and remains warm until October time. However, visitors wanting to soak up the sun should avoid travelling during November - March, where the cold weather can reach below freezing, and is matched with heavy rainfall and cool air further bringing down the temperature for tourists. Photo: Pixabay
Just over the waters from Britain, Ireland is a popular destination for those looking to see the stunning landscapes over a pint of cold Guinness. However the weather is often unpredictable and often doesn’t reach above 25℃. The autumn and winter months are infamous for heavy rainfall days on end, so although the prices of flights and accommodation will be significantly cheaper, visiting during the longer summer and spring months is much more ideal. Photo: Pixabay
Unlike most other European countries, visiting Poland during the summer will often mean wet weather despite pleasant warmth. Poland is best explored during late spring and early autumn when the rainfalls become much less infrequent and temperatures reach up to 20℃. But for those looking to travel to a country with beautiful snowfall, Poland is a great choice during the winter months. With a long winter, temperatures often drop to -12℃ and is ideal for snowsports and a perfectly white Christmas. Photo: Pixabay
Northern Italy is typically colder than the south, but both regions have very pleasant weather during the summer and spring months. Summer weather can bring highs of up to 40℃ during peak times making northern Italy perfect for those looking to soak up the sun. Yet in the winter temperatures can drop down to -5℃ for weeks on end, so booking a trip at the end of the year is a bad idea else risk getting caught in the dry, cold weather. Photo: Pixabay