Spring packing
Spring brings mild days and cool, showery evenings, so pack light layers you can add or remove. A waterproof jacket and compact umbrella handle sudden rain, while a fleece or sweater covers chilly mornings. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip matter on wet cobblestones. Days lengthen quickly, so bring sunglasses and a small daypack for picnics. Avoid heavy boots that weigh down your luggage when temperatures begin to climb across the continent by late May.
Summer packing
Summer is hot and crowded, so choose breathable fabrics, sandals, and moisture-wicking shirts for comfort. A wide-brim hat, sunscreen, and refillable water bottle protect you during long outdoor sightseeing in the midday sun. Evenings can stay warm, but a light wrap helps in air-conditioned museums and trains. Pack one smart-casual outfit for upscale restaurants or events. Keep luggage light because heat makes walking exhausting, and you will appreciate fewer heavy bags on stairs and transit.
Autumn packing
Autumn is the traveler's sweet spot, with cool crisp air and fewer crowds after summer ends. Pack a versatile mid-layer, a packable rain shell, and sturdy shoes for damp leaves underfoot. Temperatures swing from mild afternoons to cold nights, so plan adaptable outfits you can layer. A scarf and light gloves extend comfort on early-morning excursions. This season rewards those who pack for changeable weather, because a clear morning can turn to wind and drizzle by afternoon without warning.
Winter packing
Winter demands real cold-weather gear: an insulated coat, thermal base layers, waterproof boots, and a warm hat with gloves. Ice and snow make slip-resistant soles essential on northern streets and alpine paths. Daylight is short, so plan sightseeing for midday and carry a power bank since cold drains batteries faster. Packing too much is the classic error, so choose mix-and-match pieces in one color scheme. A compact foldable tote helps carry purchases when checked luggage is full on the return flight.
