12 Must-Visit Spots for 2025 Shoulder Season Trips

Who’s ready to travel in style while lapping up some major savings? Off-season travel comes with a host of benefits, including more affordable airfare and hotels, less frenzied streets, and a greater chance of befriending the locals. 

Below, we’ll tour 12 cities that can’t be beaten if you have a mind to travel in the off-season. We’re talking heavy hitters, too, like Venice, Bruges, and Seattle. If you’re itching to start your new year off with a memorable getaway, any one of these cities will deliver in a major way. Pull out that suitcase and get ready to experience these cities in a way you simply can’t in the hustle and bustle of the summertime. 

Venice, Italy

Our favorite time of year to go to Venice is the off-season. During the summer, the city really swells, making it more difficult to marvel at its majesty. Meanwhile, during the offseason, you can enjoy the splendor of St. Mark’s Square and take in the magnificent mosaics in St. Mark’s Basilica without the feeling of getting pushed around. In addition to feeling less pressed, you’ll also feel like you’re the only one in the coffee shops as you savor a strong cup and get to know the locals in a way you really can’t during the peak summer season. 

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Is it at all possible to tack on a tour of the Amalfi Coast after your trip to Venice? To no surprise, this little slice of paradise swells in the summertime, as well. Everyone’s seeking the sun and enjoying the views of the staggering cliffs that drop into the sparkling blue waters of the sea. But, an off-season vacation means that, while the water may be too cold to swim in, you’ll have a lot more openings to those views, cheaper rates, and the sensation that it’s just you and the sea. 

Paris, France

Is there ever really an off-season in Paris? It’s pretty as a picture all year round. But, of course, if you come before the gardens spring to life in April, you’ll have a little bit more room to stretch your legs, so to speak. You’re also more likely to find affordable rates at central hotels in, say, Le Marais or St. Germain. The way the city lights up at night, especially with a light dusting of snow, really ups the ante in this already romantic city. 

French Riviera, France

The concept here is similar to Italy. Do you have time to board a train from Paris and head down to the Riviera? You can tour the cobblestone streets of Nice, Èze, Saint-Tropez, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and more without the hassle of hoards of tourists. Imagine how peaceful and relaxing it will be, taking in the sights of a Medieval city when it feels like it’s just you and the ghosts from the past. Spending time lingering over a cafe au lait or a peach bellini will also be all the more delightful.