Explore 5 Gen Z-approved destinations off-season, from Seoul to Santorini
The Rise of Shoulder-Season Travel The sweet spot—when tourist crowds have yet to descend or they have just left—is what travelers are now searching for. This trend is gaining momentum, especially among Gen Z, who are choosing off-peak times to travel to make their money go further and avoid the worst of the tourist crowds. Recent reports, including Airbnb's "2025 Fall Travel Trends," highlight that those born between 1997 and 2012 are warming up to the appeal of shoulder seasons, when demand is lower but many of the attractions of high season can still be enjoyed. Here are five destinations and their shoulder seasons recommended for those seeking quieter streets and cheaper sleeps. Kanazawa, Japan Kanazawa, located on Honshu Island, offers a unique experience during its shoulder seasons. These include late May, early June, early September, and early November. While visitors may miss out on the peak sakura (spring blossoms) and autumn foliage, they can still enjoy the...