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IN BRIEF
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Across the European continent, the duration of school holidays varies significantly from country to country. While France is often at the center of discussions regarding the duration of holidays, a broader analysis reveals a mosaic of educational systems with varied breaks. This article aims to explore the significant differences in European school calendars, highlighting countries with distinct approaches to holidays.
A highly variable overall holiday duration in Europe #
European school calendars exhibit great diversity in terms of the number of weeks of vacation granted to students. The majority of European countries offer a total of 100 to 120 days of leave per year. However, some countries, such as those in the Balkans, as well as Greece and Romania, reach up to 17 weeks of holidays each year, setting a true record on the continent. In contrast, Germany stands out as one of the strictest countries, providing only about 10 weeks of vacation, while Denmark, although renowned for its educational balance, offers fewer than 90 days of holidays.
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Where does France stand? #
In France, students benefit from 16 weeks of annual holidays, placing the country among the most generous in terms of school holidays. Despite this apparent generosity, summer vacations are relatively short, with only 8 weeks of rest, while several southern and eastern countries offer between 11 and 13 weeks during this period. The French specificity lies in its organization, alternating seven weeks of classes and two weeks of vacation, which allows students to have regular breaks.
The long holidays: a lengthy summer in the south, shorter in the north #
The summer holidays represent one of the most notable distinctions between European school systems. According to data from the European Commission, these holidays begin between the end of May and the second half of July, depending on the country. The European average is about 9 weeks, but countries like Italy, Malta, and Latvia approach 13 weeks of summer rest. In contrast, Denmark, the Netherlands, and certain regions of Germany only benefit from 6 weeks of holidays during the summer.
School rhythms: between centralization and regional diversity #
Within a single country, the organization of holidays can vary regionally. Countries like Spain, Germany, Sweden, and Austria allow each region or canton to determine their own holiday calendars. This variability is not limited to dates but also influences the duration of breaks according to educational levels. For example, in Lithuania, primary school students enjoy two additional weeks in the summer compared to high school students, while in Ireland, high school students receive an extra month of vacation.
In other countries such as France, Poland, or the Czech Republic, national authorities establish standardized school calendars. This varied management of school holidays in Europe reflects different approaches that respond to specific cultural, educational, and political realities.
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