Secret Seasons: The Best Off-Peak Travel Spots

At C The World, we know that some of the most magical travel moments happen after the crowds have gone home. If you have the flexibility to travel outside the traditional peak months, the shoulder or off-peak seasons offer unbeatable value, more personal service, and the chance to experience destinations at their most authentic.

Here, we reveal some of our favourite places to visit in 2025 when the timing is just right—but the tourists are nowhere to be seen.

Italy – Spring and Autumn Elegance

Best Time to Go: March–April or October–November

Spring and autumn are the perfect times to visit Italy’s most popular cities. Rome, Florence, and Venice come alive without the summer heat or queues. It’s also the ideal time to explore rural regions like Tuscany and Umbria.

Why It Works:

• Milder weather for sightseeing

• Easier access to top attractions

• Autumn food festivals, truffle hunting, and wine harvests

Top Tip: Consider a tailor-made tour combining Florence and the Tuscan countryside with private wine tastings and local guides. Talk to us about this!

Andalusia, Spain – Sunshine Without the Sizzle

Best Time to Go: February–March or October

Southern Spain has a wonderfully long travel season. In spring, you’ll enjoy blooming almond trees, and in autumn the temperatures are still warm but far more comfortable for sightseeing.

Why It Works:

• Fewer tourists in iconic sites like the Alhambra

• Ideal temperatures for exploring on foot

• Excellent off-season hotel rates

Top Tip: Travel during Seville’s Feria de Abril (April Fair) for a truly local experience—flamenco, food, and festivities in full swing.

Provence, France – A Softer Side of the South

Best Time to Go: April or late September–October

Provence in shoulder season is a dream—sun-drenched villages, peaceful lavender fields (early July) or golden vineyards (October), and local markets brimming with seasonal produce.

Why It Works:

• Slower pace for exploring picture-perfect hill towns

• Easier restaurant reservations and smaller group tours

• Opportunities to connect with locals

Top Tip: Travel by train or hire car to explore Avignon, Gordes, and the Luberon at your own pace.

Greek Islands – Quiet Shores and Warm Seas

Best Time to Go: May or September–October

By travelling outside the peak summer months, you’ll discover Greece at its most relaxed. Enjoy warm seas, empty beaches, and a slower pace of life on islands like Naxos, Milos, or Sifnos.

Why It Works:

• Fewer cruise ships

• Comfortable temperatures for walking and exploring

• Great hotel availability

Top Tip: Pair Athens with a lesser-known island (like Milos, pictured above) for the perfect mix of culture and coastal charm.

Japan – Autumn Leaves and Culture at Its Best

Best Time to Go: Late October to November

While many flock to Japan for cherry blossom season, autumn is equally stunning—and far less crowded. Fiery red maple leaves fill Kyoto’s gardens and temple grounds, and the weather is crisp and dry.

Why It Works:

• Breathtaking scenery

• Fewer tourists at top cultural sites

• Ideal walking weather

Top Tip: Ask us about a private guided cultural tour of Kyoto, including tea ceremonies and temple stays.

Morocco – Desert Adventures Without the Heat

Best Time to Go: March–April or October

In shoulder season, Morocco’s vibrant cities are bustling but bearable, and the Sahara is at its most inviting. This is a great time to enjoy a luxury desert camp, souk shopping, and a taste of Berber hospitality.

Why It Works:

• Cooler temperatures for sightseeing

• Excellent for photography and camel treks

• Fewer tour groups

Top Tip: Combine Marrakech with a stay in the Atlas Mountains for contrast and calm.

South Africa – Safari and Whale Season

Best Time to Go: May–August

South Africa’s winter months mean excellent wildlife viewing—less foliage and animals gathering at waterholes. It’s also prime time for whale watching along the Western Cape.

Why It Works:

• Great safari sightings

• Lower prices and fewer crowds

• Unique seasonal experiences

Top Tip: Include a visit to Hermanus or Plettenberg Bay for land-based whale watching in style.

New England – Fall Foliage Magic

Best Time to Go: Late September to mid-October

New England’s autumn is the stuff of travel dreams. With crisp air, blazing colours, and charming coastal villages, it’s the perfect destination for a self-drive holiday.

Why It Works:

• One of the world’s best natural displays

• Small-town charm and comfort

• Great food, from lobster rolls to farm-to-table fare

Top Tip: Stay in boutique inns and enjoy gentle hikes, local cider tastings, and lakeside views.

Why Off-Peak Travel Is the Best-Kept Secret

Travelling in shoulder season offers far more than savings (though those are often significant). It allows for deeper connection to people, places, and the essence of a destination. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, culture, or soft adventure, there’s a “secret season” that’s just right for you.

Ready to Plan Your Off-Peak Escape?

At C The World, we specialise in tailor-made holidays that fit you. Let us help you discover the magic of travelling when others stay home. Contact us today to start planning your perfect off-season adventure.