Europe has a wide range of climates, from cool and changeable conditions in the north to warm, sunny weather in the Mediterranean. Weather can also vary significantly between coastal, inland and mountain areas.
France has a temperate climate, but conditions vary considerably by region.
The Atlantic coast has mild, relatively wet weather throughout the year. Inland and eastern areas have warmer summers and colder winters, with snow possible in higher areas. Southern France has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Mountain areas, including the Alps and Pyrenees, are considerably cooler and can have snow well into the colder months.
The UK and Ireland generally have a mild, temperate climate with changeable weather throughout the year. Summers are usually mild to warm, while winters are cool and can be wet and windy.
The south and east tend to be warmer and drier, while northern and western areas are generally cooler and wetter. Scotland and the west coast of Ireland can be particularly windy and chilly, even in summer.
Tip: Weather can change quickly, so we recommend bringing layers and a waterproof jacket whatever the season.
The Netherlands and much of Central Europe have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally mild to warm, while winters are cooler and can bring frost, snow and icy conditions.
The Netherlands has a particularly changeable and often windy climate. Mountainous areas are colder, with snow common in winter and cooler temperatures possible in summer.
Switzerland's climate varies with altitude and region. The Swiss Plateau has warm summers and cold winters, while the Alps are considerably cooler and receive plenty of snow in winter.
Southern Switzerland has a milder climate. Mountain weather can change quickly, and temperatures are often much cooler at higher elevations, even during summer.
Italy has a varied climate, with significant differences between the north and south.
Northern Italy has colder winters and warm summers, while central Italy generally enjoys warm summers and cooler, wetter winters. Southern Italy, Sicily and Sardinia have a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
Mountain areas, including the Alps and Dolomites, are considerably cooler and can experience snow during winter.
Spain has a varied climate, with generally hot, dry summers and mild winters in many parts of the country.
The Mediterranean coast and southern Spain are typically hot and sunny in summer, while northern Spain has a cooler and wetter climate. Central Spain can experience very hot summers and cold winters. Mountain areas are cooler throughout the year, with snow possible in winter.
Portugal generally has a mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters.
The south, including the Algarve, is typically warmer and sunnier, while northern Portugal is cooler and receives more rainfall. Coastal areas are often moderated by the Atlantic Ocean, while inland areas can experience greater temperature differences between summer and winter.
Tip: Summer temperatures can be very high in parts of Spain and Portugal, particularly inland and in the south. Sun protection, plenty of water and lightweight clothing are recommended during the warmer months.
European weather varies by season, region and altitude. We recommend checking the local forecast before travelling and packing layers suitable for the destinations and time of year.