DFDS off-peak travel options and timings
Whether you’re choosing to travel on a weekday or planning an out-of-season break, there are plenty of ways to save money with off-peak fares. In Europe, the off-peak season is during autumn and winter, but you can still choose from at least nine ferry crossings per day for plenty of flexibility on your European holiday.
Explore our Dover to Calais, Dover to Dunkirk and Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossings to unlock your European adventure during the off-peak season. Check out our offers to find the best deals on ferry travel, including package holidays. Discover our timetables for all our crossings to see your travel options.
6 reasons why you should travel off-season
Travelling off-season is a great way to see more of Europe at a quieter time. There are plenty of reasons to travel off-peak, including more affordable rates on travel and accommodation and fewer tourists.
Cheaper rates. You’re more likely to get good deals on travel and accommodation during off-peak times.
Fewer tourists. During off-peak times, fewer tourists travel than in peak times like spring and summer.
More availability. With fewer people travelling, you can have your pick of accommodation and attractions.
More flexibility. Due to less demand for travel and accommodation, you can be more flexible with when you choose to travel and where you stay.
Shorter waiting times. With fewer tourists around, you can beat the crowds and spend less time waiting to see famous attractions.
More authentic experiences. Fewer tourists mean more chances to interact with locals and get a feel for the city.
Tips for successful off-peak travel
Ready to plan your off-peak trip? You could be in store for a unique break like no other, so make sure you’re well-prepared to make the most of your stay.
Check the weather. In many places, the off-season coincides with lower temperatures and unpredictable weather.
Plan indoor attractions and stops. If it’s a little chillier, it makes sense to book your museum visits or buy tickets to indoor attractions ahead of time.
Pack comfortable clothing and footwear. Make sure you dress for the weather while you’re away, and remember to bring an umbrella or extra layers.
Check which attractions are open. Some attractions are closed for the winter, so make sure you keep an eye on what you can see and do during your trip.
Top off-peak destinations
1. Amsterdam (spring)
The Netherlands is famous for its flowers, and there’s no better time to experience Amsterdam in bloom than in spring. From picnics under the cherry blossoms to charming streets bursting with colour, visit Amsterdam between March and May to make the most of the blooming flowers. Spring in Amsterdam tends to be a little cold but mostly dry, so fill your visit with trips to stunning outdoor spaces like Keukenhof Gardens and Amsterdamse Bos. The annual Tulip Festival is one of the biggest events in Holland and runs throughout April, so don’t miss out on your chance to see the famous tulip fields in full bloom.
2. Paris (autumn)
Even the most popular tourist destinations in the world have quieter times and Paris is no exception. Visit Paris in autumn to enjoy fewer tourists and brisk, bright walks by the Seine with crunchy leaves underfoot. If the weather isn’t on your side, head to one of the city’s world-famous museums and art galleries, like the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay or the Musée Cognacq-Jay. Or, make the most of your autumnal visit with a spooky tour of the Paris Catacombs. If you’re looking for the perfect romantic getaway, Paris is one of the best places to travel in Europe in February.
3. Bruges (autumn and winter)
From magical Christmas markets to a cosy stroll through the Grote Markt, Bruges is a great place to visit in autumn and winter. Head out for a brisk walk along the canals or spend some time ambling through the streets and taking in landmarks like the Belfry and the Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Bruges gets pretty cold in winter, so plan some rest stops where you can warm up. Whether you fancy a Belgian hot chocolate in a local café or a wander around the Groeninge Museum, fill your winter trip to Bruges with history and culture. Just remember to wrap up warm!
4. Berlin (autumn)
Berlin is one of Europe’s most fashionable cities, and it’s an exciting destination to visit all year round. From the Festival of Lights every October to the city’s numerous historic monuments, chic eateries and popular art galleries, no season captures Berlin’s magic like autumn.
Berlin gets much colder during autumn, so the weather might dictate whether you spend more time indoors or outdoors. If the sun is shining, enjoy a brisk stroll through the Charlottenburg Palace Garden or visit the Berlin Wall Memorial or Brandenburg Gate. If you’re into culture, pick up a day ticket for Museum Island to enjoy admission to five unmissable museums and galleries.
5. Champagne Region, France (autumn and winter)
Visit some of France’s most famous vineyards in the off-peak season to appreciate their beauty. The growing season ends with the autumn harvest, so there’s still plenty to see and do even if you don’t visit the region during spring or summer. Autumn brings a burst of red, orange and yellow to the landscape, making it a unique and colourful time of year to see the vineyards.
You can still plan cellar tours and wine tastings in winter but check ahead as some Champagne houses close their doors or reduce their hours during this season. Instead, visit Reims to see its famous Christmas market, and take advantage of free museum admission across the city from January to March.
Our routes
Newcastle to Amsterdam
Reach Amsterdam directly with our Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry crossing. Overnight crossings are available so you can enjoy maximum comfort and wake up ready to start your adventure.
Dover to Dunkirk
Our Dover to Dunkirk ferry crossing takes just 2 hours, and gives you access to Belgium, France, the Netherlands and more. While onboard, you can enjoy entertainment, a range of dining options and Duty Free shopping.
Dover to Calais
Our most popular ferry crossing is Dover to Calais, and it takes just 100 minutes. Enjoy your journey with our excellent onboard facilities, from dining to Duty Free shopping.
