Planning a river cruise in Europe. Noticed August dates still open when July and October are booked. I've heard August is vacation time in some parts of Europe with businesses closed for the month. Wondering if this is true across Europe.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23642 posts
Difficult to generalize. Europe is a big area with lots of different cultures from the south of Italy to Germany and points north. There is a reason that the August dates are till open. It is generally viewed by many as one of the least desirable months to visit especially in southern Europe. European have historically vacation in the month of August in addition to all the Am and Canadians so things tend to be more crowded. Mid September through Oct is our favorite time. You may find some businesses closed, especially restaurants but most tourist attractions will be open. You will not find wholesale closures. If that is the only time you can go, go. It may be a little hotter, bit more crowded, but Europeans are just as smart as American, and when the tourists come they will be open for business.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
sigh,, some small businesses may close for vacation, but it will almost never affect any tourist. All tourist sites are open as usual. The rates for hotels go down in August too,, not everywhere mind you( like south of France they go up) but in cities they often offer specails in August as business travel and tradeshows/conventions is down.