geoseward

I am looking into a tour starting at Salzberg, Hallstatt and than Switzerland traveling to various mountain locations, Bolzano in the Dolomites and than to the French Alps. I have a choice of traveling in August or early September. Since I am traveling to alpine locations I would like to go during a time of less rain. In this part of Europe when is it considered the "shoulder season" for crowds. Thanks again

mokka4

Personally, I would go in mid to late September. August is school break in Switzerland, so many Swiss go on vacation themselves. August is generally very crowded with tourists. Snow doesn't generally begin to hamper high altitude walks until late September into October.

joannyc

I also typically vacation in Europe during September. Kids are back in school and not as many other tourists.

bobthenavigator

Sep is better.
And, look at the Val Gardena for better scenery than Bolzano.

neckervd

The weather is always unpredicable in the Alps.
Swiss school holidays differ from canton to canton. In most cantons they end before August 16th, except Fribourg, Geneva, Grischun and Vaud (August 23rd).

If you come from Salzburg - Hallstadt - Bolzano/Bozen, you best enter Switzerland at Mals/Malles and continue via St. Moritz or Davos..... in order to leave this country at Chatelard - Chamonix-Mont Blanc

geoseward

Thanks for getting back with me. Appreciate it.