No queues or inflated prices, and attractions you can explore with ease. The off-season also brings unexpected joys: lower costs, more space to explore, and delightful weather.
Crisp autumn Japanese air, mild winter Moroccan sunshine, and peaceful canals of Amsterdam all await!
Amsterdam, Netherlands – March
While the iconic tulip fields might not yet be in full bloom, the city itself comes to life at this time of year. The streets are quieter, making it easier to explore without a sea of bicycles and tourists.
This is the best time to visit the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum without spending half the morning queuing up. If you’re lucky, early blossoms may appear in Vondelpark too. The weather can be on the chillier side but with fewer crowds, you’ll have even more appreciation for the city’s cosy cafés.
Kyoto, Japan – November
Kyoto in autumn is a masterpiece of colour as the ancient temples in the city are framed by a sea of reds and deep oranges. Yes, cherry blossom season in spring draws enormous crowds but November offers a far more relaxed way to experience Japan’s culture. At this time of year, you can stroll through the bamboo forests of Arashiyama or climb the vermillion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine without overheating.
In the evenings, some temples illuminate their gardens, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate rather than crowded which could never be replicated in the peak travel season.
Marrakech, Morocco – January
Winter in Marrakech is a well-kept secret. It’s the perfect time to wander through the bustling souks of the Medina, where the usual crowds are replaced with a more relaxed vibe.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square still fills with storytellers and street food vendors, but there’s space to breathe now and take it all in. You can visit the Bahia Palace or the Jardin Majorelle by day and the Atlas Mountains are just a short drive away – the peaks may even be dusted with snow. And if you’re after some winter sun, the holiday weather in Marrakech is far more inviting than the grey skies back home.
Patagonia, Argentina & Chile – April
Patagonia’s landscapes are at their most dramatic in autumn. The summer hikers have mostly cleared out, meaning the trails in Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Parks feel more personal and as though you’re the one in control.
The weather can be unpredictable, but this is all part of Patagonia’s charm. Crisp mornings give way to clear afternoons, and while you might experience a sudden gust of wind or a passing rain shower, the region’s beauty is undeniable. It’s all part of the experience. If you’re planning to cross between Argentina and Chile during your trip, it’s worth noting that buses and ferries are still run regularly, but with more availability than in peak months.
Travelling in the off-season isn’t just about saving money or dodging the crowds. It’s about seeing a place differently, and in most cases, at its peak. Visiting new places when they’re calm and open sometimes makes it even more beautiful.