Many people travel to escape the seasons, but regardless of whether you find yourself overseas in summer, spring, winter, or fall, there are always exciting things to do regardless of destination. 

Depending on where you’re traveling, you might find that some regions (namely the tropics) only experience two seasons: wet and dry season. Though for the majority of the world, you’ll find that there is beauty in all four. 

If you find yourself traveling at a time of year you’ve not previously traveled before, the following should help you come up with ideas for things to do in each season.

Ideas for Things to Do Overseas in Every Season

Things to do in Winter

Winter is a time of year where the days are short, the temperatures plunge, and animals head into hibernation. In many destinations around the world winter is low season, but that’s not to say the season doesn’t hold a certain charm.

There are plenty of things to do if you’re visiting a destination during winter; winter in the Northern Hemisphere is a lot colder than winter in the Southern Hemisphere, so if you’re traveling for snow, you’ll want to visit a place like Russia, Greenland, Canada, the USA, or Scandinavia.

When you find yourself in the midst of a snowy winter there are usually plenty of winter festivals to attend, markets, and of course, snow sports. If in the Northern Hemisphere winter will align with Christmas, and you’ll likely find a wide range of Christmas markets.

Related Post: The Best Christmas Markets in Europe

Snow sports is the big one, but you don’t have to pay thousands of dollars to rent ski equipment from a luxurious European resort. If the slopes aren’t your thing you can go sledding, snowshoeing, build a snowman, or pick up some skates for time on the ice.

Winter is the perfect opportunity too to spend time jumping between museums, and taking in the cafe culture of your chosen destination. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere you may be lucky enough to catch the Northern Lights.

And of course, why not embrace the shorter days by snuggling up by the fire and roasting smores, or getting cozy with a good book in an outdoor hot tub? There are many magical ways to enjoy winter.

Things to do in Spring

Spring is a fantastic season for traveling overseas, and it’s usually shoulder season which means you can take advantage of fewer crowds and cheaper prices, but still enjoy beautiful weather before the summer tourism kicks in. 

Spring is a great chance to head out for lazy picnics in city parks, and for people watching. You can go sightseeing by way of kayaks, bike rentals, and this is a great opportunity to try your hand at adventure sports like hot air ballooning or skydiving.

Many countries around the world have flower festivals in Spring as well, perhaps the most famous being Japan’s cherry blossom season, or Hanami. There’s Floriade in Canberra, Australia, the Chelsea Flower Show in the UK, and Batalla de Flores in Spain.

Related Post: How to Plan a Cherry Blossoms Trip to Japan

Whale migrations often happen during spring, and in many destinations around the world this is when wildlife start breeding, so is the perfect season to plan a wildlife safari, or head out for some DIY wildlife spotting.

This is also the perfect season for hiking; days are longer than winter, so you have more sunlight, and the weather is warm for being outdoors, but not so hot that you’ll fall over from the exercise!

Things to do in Summer

Ah summer! I think we all know how to spend our time in summer!

Most people pull out their bathing suits, regardless of where they are in the world – including in Antarctica where swimming becomes an adventure sport!

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the water, whether you’re swimming in the waters of the Carribean Sea or enjoying the waves by way of a boat rental BVI, island hopping is a great way to spend sunny summer days.

Walk along the beach as you watch the sun rise or set. Go snorkeling or jet skiing for a thrilling adventure. Social events and music festivals are also a staple of summer, as are cross country road trip adventures. 

In places close to the arctic circle you’ll have the advantage of the midnight sun, which means it’s 24 hours of daylight for exploring; the sun never sets! Many people use this as an opportunity to go camping, and spend time in National Parks.

Summer is often peak season in many destinations, as it’s when the weather is best. But do be aware that this usually means large crowds and higher prices because of the demand for tourism.

Things to do in Autumn / Fall

So many people love to travel during fall because of the cooler temperatures. Quite like Spring, for many destinations this is shoulder season, so you can enjoy mild weather while taking advantage of less crowds and lower prices. 

Spring may get all the credit as the most beautiful month of the year, with new flower blooms, but Autumn puts on its own show in terms of fall foliage. 

Don’t make the assumption that you have to solely visit states within the U.S. in order to experience the glorious scenery of the fall. Tuscany, Italy, Seoul, South Korea and Kyoto, Japan are just a few of the diverse places that offer amazing fall weather.

This is also the season for wine-tasting, and for Halloween (read this post on how Halloween is celebrated around the world). It’s a great season for picnics, romantic strolls, and photography is often more interesting, with more moody weather and blazes of orange and red leaves.

Which is your favorite season for traveling?

Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind Waking Up Wild; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 50+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.