Semih
Travel editor at Reisedrop · 2026-09-15
The short answer: the Mediterranean shines in May/June and September/October, the Norwegian fjords from June to August, the Caribbean from December to April – and you can almost always save money at the edges of these windows. Here’s the honest overview for planning from Switzerland.
Mediterranean: May, June, September, October
At the height of summer, Dubrovnik and Santorini are hot and crowded. The smart months are May, June and September: 25 degrees instead of 35, streets that are only half as busy, and prices noticeably below peak season. And for swimming, September is actually best – the sea is at its warmest then.
Northern waters & fjords: June to August
The fjord season is short, and that’s exactly what makes it magical: midnight sun in June, green cliff faces, roaring waterfalls. If you’re after the Northern Lights, choose the newer autumn and winter routes towards Northern Norway – a thicker jacket, admittedly, but nature’s finest show in return.
Caribbean: December to April
Dry, 28 degrees, Caribbean-blue – the Caribbean is the perfect antidote to Swiss winter fog. From June to November it’s hurricane season: prices are temptingly low then, but route changes are possible. For a first Caribbean cruise, we recommend the reliable winter season.
Canary Islands & Orient: the winter insider tips
The Canary Islands sail year-round in 20 to 26 degrees – ideal for a winter escape without a long-haul flight. The Orient (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar) shines from November to March; in summer, 45 degrees is simply not holiday weather.
And when should you book?
The best prices come twice: very early on (Wave Season in January, with the cruise lines’ annual offers) and sometimes very late. But for balcony cabins, family cabins and school holiday periods, the rule is clear: book early. The most sought-after categories go first – last-minute only works if you’re flexible.
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