Autumn in Europe: 26 Best Places to Go

Looking for the best places to experience Autumn in Europe? The grape harvest is on for world-class wine tasting. Brilliant fall foliage takes center stage in cities and national parks across the continent. And unique fall festivals celebrate food, art, and gardens. Here’s where to go for the best of the season…

Europe in Autumn

1. South Iceland for the Sheep Round-Up

If you’re looking to visit Europe in autumn, then you can’t beat South Iceland. 

This is the time of year to see the Northern Lights dancing through the sky. Plus, the annual sheep round-up, locally known as Réttir, happens as locals drive livestock down from the highlands.

In fact, one of the most famous roundups happens on Eyjafjordur and you are welcome to participate. Pedestrians, horseback riders, and ATVs all work together to gather sheep. 

Then, once the sheep are all corraled together, markings are used to distribute the sheep to the correct farmer before singing, drinking, eating, and dancing ensues. 

Autumn is also the start of off-season travel to Iceland for fewer crowds along with mild weather and more normal daylight hours.

Go berry picking. Crowberries and blueberries both become ripe and delicious starting in September in Iceland. 

In particular, Heiðmörk is right outside of Reykjavik and is a great spot to enjoy this activity, as is the spot in front of the Gerðuberg basalt columns in Thingvellir National Park.

Where to stay and eat in Reykjavik: Canopy by Hilton Reykjavik City Centre makes an ideal base. Grab an authentic Icelandic meal at Sjávargrillið in Reykjavik. The fish soup and lamb are exceptional.

Victoria | Iceland Trippers

2. Porto, Portugal for the Grape Harvest

With its balmy days and romantic Rabelo boats cruising the Douro River, Porto makes the perfect fall getaway destination. While it’s a bit too far for a Lisbon day trip, it’s an excellent base for a long weekend.

Your fall Porto itinerary should include a walking tour of historic sights in Old Town and Ribeira, like the Clérigos Church, Bell Tower, and Livraria Lello, the bookstore made famous in Harry Potter (but favored by Portuguese intellectuals since the 1960s).

Don’t miss the impossibly beautiful tile-covered São Bento Train Station. It’s covered with 20,000 glazed azulejo ceramic tiles! You’ll find roasted chestnuts sold here in the fall to mark the celebration of the harvest on St. Martin’s Day in November.

Then cross the River Douro on the famous Dom Luis Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia, the location of all the best Porto houses for sipping.

Whatever you do, don’t miss a fall day trip to the nearby Douro Valley for wine tasting. This UNESCO World Heritage site is stunning with its steep, terraced cliffs. And in mid-to late-September, many wineries invite visitors to help pick and stomp grapes for the harvest.

Where to stay and eat in Porto: For stylish, old-world elegance in the hip and central Aliados neighborhood, book at Infrante Sagres Hotel.

Be sure to grab a snack or lunch at world-famous Gazela Cachorrinhos da Batalha to experience Anthony Bourdain’s favorite spot for “cachorro”, Portugal’s specialty hot dog.

3. Loire Valley, France for the Garden Festival

France’s Loire Valley is the perfect fall destination in Europe. It’s all about the beautiful castles, quaint villages, and stunning fall colors…without summer crowds and hot weather.

Because the Loire Valley is just 200 kilometers from Paris, you’ll find many Paris tours that will take you here on a day trip.

However, it’s much better to base here for a stay to really soak in the fall splendor rather than spending six hours by bus to see just a handful of castles. 

You can rent bicycles or scooters and follow the Loire River through golden forests, or you can drive yourself from chateau to chateau.

Fall festivals abound in the Loire Valley. At the end of September, the Loire Festival celebrates ships and mariners.

And October brings the Festival des Jardins to Chateau Chaumont-sur-Loire, which are bursting with colorful chrysanthemums. 

Where to stay and eat in Loire Valley: Tours and Amboise both make excellent bases. Dozens of chateaux now offer accommodations; try the stunning Hôtel Le Manoir Les Minimes. Mimosa in Blois is a cute little bistro with an excellent cheese plate.

Leigh | Campfires & Concierges

4. Lucerne, Switzerland for Iconic Fall Views

Visiting Lucerne in the fall is an enchanting experience; it offers an ideal mix of stunning natural beauty, vibrant autumn colors, and rich cultural heritage.

Located in the heart of Switzerland, Lucerne is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic architecture, and idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Lucerne.

In the fall, the autumn colors are lively and provide a stunning background to the city. From exploring the Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, and Glacier Garden, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Lucerne.

The fall weather makes it a perfect time for a lake cruise to explore Lake Lucerne.

In October or November, the mountains will have plenty of snow on them, so don’t be afraid to take the gondola up Mount Rigi for panoramic views.

The white mountains, blue lakes, and vibrant fall foliage at the top make an excellent day out.

Where to stay and eat in Lucerne: There are plenty of memorable hotels in Lucerne, but the Hermitage Lake Lucerne is a great base in the city with beautiful views.

Stop in at the Wirtshaus Galliker Tavern, a family-owned restaurant in the heart of Lucerne. Order the homemade Luzerner Chügelipastete, a veal and mushroom puff pastry, or try the local fondue at Stadtkeller to take the fall chill off.

Pamela | The Directionally Challenged Traveler

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5. Dubrovnik, Croatia for Crowd-Free Beaches

If you’re trying to decide between Split or Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik is undeniably Croatia’s most popular destination; it’s a must on any Croatia road trip.

However, the high-season’s crowds can sometimes overshadow its medieval allure. Visiting during fall lets you discover the magic of Dubrovnik with the city’s iconic sites all to yourself.

Fall weather here is idyllic, with mild temperatures that create the perfect climate for leisurely sightseeing.

Explore the narrow alleys, scale the ancient city walls, and absorb the rich history. Then take a dip in the sea. In October, it’s often still warm enough for swimming!

Dubrovnik’s stunning beaches—head to Banje Beach or Sveti Jakov—are yours to enjoy without the summer rush. You can also day trip to some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands nearby.

As an added bonus, prices in Dubrovnik tend to be more wallet-friendly in fall, to enjoy top notch experiences and accommodations without breaking the bank. 

Where to stay and eat in Dubrovnik: Stay at The Pucic Palace, a gorgeous boutique hotel in the heart of town. Be sure to try the octopus burger at Barba.

Olivia | Inspired by Croatia

6. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic for St. Wencelas

A visit to Europe in the fall wouldn’t be complete without a stop in the Czech Republic’s scenic Český Krumlov. 

This UNESCO World Heritage town was built along the Vltava River and boasts a 13-century castle as its main attraction.

Visitors who climb the 162 steps to the top of the Castle Tower will be rewarded with stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside that become yet more vivid with fall colors.

If you time your visit for the end of September, you’ll be lucky enough to experience the St. Wenceslas Celebrations and International Folklore Festival.

The celebrations are in honor of St. Wenceslas—the patron saint of the Czech land—as well as brewers and winemakers. The annual festival includes plenty to eat and drink, a parade of folklore groups, concerts, and non-traditional guided tours.

Although you can visit Český Krumlov on a day trip from Prague, it’s best to plan one or two nights in town to really soak up all that this medieval city has to offer.

Where to stay and eat in Český Krumlov: Consider booking a couple of nights at Old Town’s Hotel Ebersbach, one of the top-rated and most historically beautiful hotels in Český Krumlov.

And don’t miss out on the foodie scene! A meal of hearty goulash and bread dumplings from Hospoda Na Louzi will really warm you up on those chilly fall evenings.

Madison | Madison’s Footsteps

7. Rhine River Valley, Germany for World-Class Wine Festivals

The Rhine River Valley is, for good reason, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany.

And while the Rhine is lovely all year long, it’s simply gorgeous in fall! The lazy river cuts a path through rolling green hills and vast countryside.

The idyllic scenery is a sharp contrast to the ruckus Oktoberfest shenanigans down the road in Munich. In autumn, grapevines decorate the hillsides and spiral their way up nearly every cottage in each quaint village.

In early fall, the whimsical vines are heavy with grapes and cooler temperatures make for pleasant days.

Many of the villages in this area host wine festivals in late August and September where visitors can sample the world class wines that are produced in this region.

Explore the quaint villages and dozens of castles that dot the area. Get out on the river for a relaxing Rhine River cruise.

The Rhine River Valley is truly the perfect addition to any autumn Germany itinerary.

Where to stay and eat in the Rhine River Valley: Many of the castles along the Rhine have restaurants with views of the river. The romantic Hotel Schloss Rheinfels offers excellent accommodation with a well-loved onsite restaurant. Book a room overlooking the river. 

Angie | We’re Not in Kansas Anymore

Read more on Europe travel:

• Best European winter destinations

• 51 Unique places to visit in Europe

8. Seville, Spain for the Flamenco Biennial

Autumn in Seville, located in the Andalucia region of Spain, is an ideal time to visit since the temperatures range from 20°C to 22°C (68° to 72° F), much cooler than in summer.

This allows you to enjoy strolling around the city to see the sights without the fiercely hot sun.

The most important event during fall is the Flamenco Biennial which is basically a Flamenco competition that fuses both song and dance, featuring artists from all over Spain. The event lasts for one month, with a range of performances taking place around the city.

In fall, the trees that line the city’s boulevards burst into red, yellow, and orange. Head to the city’s most popular park, Park Maria Luisa, for best leaf-peeping photography.

Another one of the best things to do in Seville is to visit the Royal Alcázar of Seville to see the gardens. In autumn, they’re still in bloom. Take in a live flamenco performance on the balcony of Plaza de España .

Where to stay and eat in Seville: To stay near main attractions, check out Hotel Cervantes, located in Seville’s historic center. For excellent tapaps, try traditional old-style plates at El Rinconcillo.

Dan | Backpacking Latin America

9. Rome, Italy for Foodie Fun

October in Rome is the best month to visit. Temperatures are still pleasant, making it perfect to explore, with little chance of winter rain.

And even though summer tourist crowds have gone, tourist attractions and museums in Rome still observe summer opening hours until the end of October. Rome is a must on any Italy itinerary!

First-time visitor? Don’t miss the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, as well as St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums. Reserve ahead though as availability can be limited even in fall.

If you’re a return visitor to Rome, explore off the beaten path. Check out the Centrale Montemartini Museum exhibit; the colorful street art of the Ostiense or Tor Marancia districts; the unique Art Nouveau buildings of the Quartiere Coppede, and even the grand Fascist architecture of the EUR district. 

Where to stay and eat in Rome: The Monti district offers easy access to all tourist attractions in Rome. Residenza Maritti is a lovely, family-run guest house with a terrace overlooking the Imperial Forum, the Altar of the Fatherland, and the Colosseum. 

For authentic Roman cuisine and the best carbonara in the city, head to Renato e Luisa close to Largo di Torre Argentina. Or, for cacio e pepe, Felice a Testaccio is the place to go.

Claudia | My Adventures Across the World

10. The Azores, Portugal for Hot Springs

Standing alone in the Atlantic Ocean, the nine islands of Portugal’s autonomous Azores archipelago are a year-round adventurers’ utopia.

However, if you’re visiting Europe in dall, two of the group’s islands—Pico and São Miguel—stand out for very different reasons.

The first, Pico, is best visited in early fall for its viniculture. Here, a unique and impressive wine scene started in the 15th century, when the volcanic rock was first chiseled away to create wine-growing plots called currais.

These vineyards are so unique that they are one of Portugal’s 17 UNESCO-listed sites, and from mid-September, you can witness the Grape Harvest Festival, adding an exciting sideshow to wine tastings.

On São Miguel, the main fall draw is undoubtedly taking a hot spring dip in Furnas, the island’s cradle of geothermal activity. But, beyond bathing, fall is always an excellent time to visit for outdoor activities.

It’s the start of prime surf season, the tail-end of whale watching season—October is ideal for humpback sightings—and perfect for hiking trails free from crowds. 

Where to stay and eat in The Azores: On São Miguel, the heritage Octant Furnas Azores Hotel provides the perfect base in Furnas. Nearby, Restaurante Tony’s is the place to try the Azores’ traditional meat-heavy stew, Cozido das Furnas, cooked underground using thermal steam.

Daniel | Guide2Portugal

11. Sardinia for Beach Time + Wine Tasting

Few places in Europe are as beautiful as Sardinia in the fall. October and November are still beach weather, without the summer crowds. Plus, it’s the best time for hiking with long, sunny days…followed by a swim in a small cove, of course.

Sardinia’s capital city, Cagliari, is resplendent with historic sites and an excellent food scene. Alghero, the Catalan enclave of Sardinia, offers all of its summer charm with far fewer tourists.

Wine tasting is prime time in fall. Don’t miss Argiolas, in the lovely Serdiana 20 minutes’ drive from Cagliari), and Sella & Mosca, near Alghero. 

Best of all, from mid-September to mid-December, Autunno in Barbagia takes place each weekend in a different small town in the mountainous Barbagia region. It’s a feast of traditional food and wine, music, dance, culture, and a great way to get to know a lesser known part of t he island.

Where to stay and eat in Sardinia: Base yourself in either Cagliari or Alghero. In Cagliari, La Dolce Cagliari is a nice locally run guest house in the historic center. In Alghero, Musica Guest House is right outside the center, in a lovely residential area. 

If you are looking for a budget-friendly meal in Cagliari, head to Framento; it’s one of the best pizzerias in Italy. For a more sophisticated meal, Duanima, right outside the historic center, will be perfect. 

Claudia | Strictly Sardinia

12. London, UK for Spooky Halloween Happenings

Fall is the best time to visit London, thanks to the cooler temperatures that mark a welcome change from the almost-unbearable summer heat. This makes London sightseeing a breeze; you can explore all day without breaking a sweat!

One of the most exciting things about visiting London in autumn is Halloween.

Thanks to the city’s thousands of years of history, you’ll find plenty of haunted and spooky attractions, but Jack the Ripper walking tours and places like the London Dungeons come into full swing during the spooky season, too. 

Don’t miss the Southbank Centre for the London Literature Festival this month.

The event features talks, book signings, workshops, and live performances by some of the world’s top authors.

Of course, no fall trip to London would be complete without savoring the beautiful autumn foliage that covers the entire city. Hyde Park and St James’ Park are favorite leaf-peeping destinations.

Where to stay and eat in London: For accommodations, try NoMad London, right in the heart of the action. Rules is the oldest restaurant in London, serving traditional English food.

Ella | Many More Maps

13. Ronda, Spain for the Copper Forest

The quaint town of Ronda in southern Spain is one of the most underrated fall destinations in Europe. It makes an incredible spot to relax and unwind on a Southern Spain road trip.

Most people only day trip to Ronda to see the New Bridge and walk around the historic center, but if you allow yourself more time, you’ll dive into a dramatic history that dates back to prehistoric times.

Ronda is also surrounded by a unique natural area, Serrania de Ronda, where you can road trip narrow hairpin roads winding through the golden canopies of the Bosque de Cobre (copper forest).

This area is famed among the locals for its fall colors and there are many beautiful hiking routes here to savor the fall colors to their fullest.

A traveler favorite: A hike between Igualeja and Parauta, two enchanting villages. The highlight of this trail, besides the magnificent fall colors, is the fairytale statues in Parauta making out the 2-kilometer-long Bosque Encantado which is particularly popular among the kids.

The best time to go for fall colors is mid-November before the rain falls and the wind wipes away all the leaves from the trees.

Temperatures in Ronda can get pretty cool in fall, down to around zero degrees Celsius (32 F), due to its altitude, so prepare ahead with a beanie and scarf, especially for cool evenings.

Where to stay and eat in Ronda: One of the best places to stay? Check out Catalonia Ronda, overlooking the bull ring. For fabulous tapas and a vibrant atmosphere, head to Bar El Lechugita.

Linn | Amused by Andalucia

14. Ghent, Belgium for Film Fest

There’s something magical about Ghent in the fall. It’s not just the colors changing on the medieval architecture or the cool, comfortable weather that’s perfect for strolling. It’s also the city’s vibrant festival scene. 

Film buffs shouldn’t miss Film Fest Ghent in October. It’s Belgium’s top film festival with over 100 films and shorts from around the world. It’s a great chance to catch the latest international releases and even rub shoulders with filmmakers and critics.

If you’re more into music than cinema, the Ghent Festival of Flanders in mid-September is the way to go.

It’s an international music festival known for its diverse repertoire, from classical symphonies to jazz sessions, and creative world music. You’ll find musicians performing all over town, from grand concert halls to intimate pubs.

Aside from the fall festivals, there’s plenty to explore in Ghent. The Gravensteen, a medieval castle right in the city center, is an absolute must-see.

It offers a peek into Ghent’s rich history and a panoramic view of the city from the top. Another highlight is Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the Ghent Altarpiece, a famous piece of 15th-century art.

Strolling around the charming streets, you’ll come across the Graslei and Korenlei quays, two of the most picturesque spots in Ghent. And of course, you can’t miss St. Michael’s Church and the adjacent St. Michael’s Bridge.

Where to stay and eat in Ghent: For centrally located accommodation, Hotel Harmony is a charming boutique hotel with a heated outdoor pool. As for dining, Maison Elza is a local gem; ask for a seat by the window to watch the boats in the canal.

Jo | World Wild Schooling

15. Bordeaux, France for Harvest Season

Known as one of the French wine capitals, Bordeaux is a delightful choice for fall in Europe.

The temperature slowly starts to drop, but the days are still long and sunny most of the time long into October.

The harvest season is the main event in the fall, starting in mid-September until mid-October, making Bordeaux a perfect destination for wine lovers.

There are plenty of events to celebrate the season and enjoy wine! For example, you can day trip from Bordeaux to St Emilion to experience the traditional “Ban des Vendanges”  harvest ceremony.

Not a wine lover? Fall is perfect to join one of the Bordeaux bike tours and explore the city like a local.

Admire the UNESCO-listed Port de la Lune, Place de la Bourse, and if you come before October, see the unique Miroir d’Eau!

Where to stay and eat in Bordeaux: Stay in the city center at Boutique Hôtel de Tourny. It’s situated away from the crowds but within walking distance of all Bordeaux attractions.

Some of the best city-center restaurants are Restaurant Son’, Lauza Restaurant, and Brasserie Bordelaise. These get very busy on the weekend, so reserve ahead.

Natali | She’s Abroad Again

16. Vipava Valley, Slovenia for Boutique Wineries

For a taste of everything that makes Europe in fall so delicious—orange-hued leaves, wine festivals, and adorable-yet-empty villages—Slovenia’s Vipava Valley is an excellent off-season vacation choice. This is especially true if you’re an oenophile keen to sample the region’s family-focused wine culture. 

From late August until the middle of September, the grape harvest is well underway, meaning an early Fall visit will allow you to see the verdant vines and traditional grape treading up close.

Late Fall is equally as inviting, with ‘young wine’ tasting events beginning on St. Martin’s Day in early November.

For a little over one month, winegrowers open up their cellars to those who helped with the harvest—and visitors to the region—to sample the new wines.

It’s a fantastic time to tour small vineyards and learn about the local grape varieties, such as Zelen, while getting to know the family-owned producers such as Pasji Rep, Lepa Vida, or Cejkotova Domačija. 

Where to stay and eat in Vipava Valley: For a memorable stay, check in to Majerija, a 300-year-old noble house converted into a family-run boutique hotel.

Gostilna pri Lojzetu, one of Slovenia’s first MICHELIN star restaurants, is a reservation worth making to sample Chef Tomaž Kavčič’s first-class personality-packed dishes in a spectacular setting.

Daniel | Dan Flying Solo

17. Snaefellsness Peninsula, Iceland for Aurora Borealis

Fall in Iceland is a magical time. The crowds have subsided and there’s a glorious briskness to the air.

But the days are still long with lots of sunlight, and they still allow you to enjoy one of the most magical sights in the world: The Aurora Borealis.

Watch the lights dance high above without being consumed by freezing temperatures and the never-ending snow that arrives in winter.

Many people don’t think Iceland is a great fall destination, but it’s one of the very best. In addition to Northern Lights, hiking trails are snow free after the summer warmth, and fewer crowds allow you to frolic without constantly bumping into people. 

The Snaefellsness Peninsula is less than three hours from Reykjavik and offers black sand beaches, the famous Kirkjufell, tons of waterfalls, lighthouses, fjords, and so much more. 

Where to Stay and Eat near Snaefellsness Peninsula: Along the coast, the cute towns of Arnarstapi, Hellissandur, Olafsvik, and others offer great lodging and plenty of campgrounds to crash. Arnarstapi Hotel is conveniently located with amazing views.

Viðvík Restaurant in Hellissandur is an off-the-beaten-path treasure of a seafood restaurant worth the detour.

Alec | Explore with Alec

18. Snowdonia National Park, UK for Waterfalls

Snowdonia National Park is a beautiful place to visit in any season, but fall is definitely one of the best times to go.

The leaves are turning all sorts of stunning colors, and the weather is still relatively mild. Plus, there are far fewer crowds than in summer.

From the fiery red leaves of the trees to the golden brown hues of the mountains, there is so much to see.

Take a hike to one of the Snowdon routes up, the highest mountain in Wales, and enjoy the views from the top.

Or, explore one of the many charming towns and villages in the area. No matter what you do, you’re sure to fall in love with Snowdonia in autumn.

The Snowdonia waterfalls are some of the most beautiful in the world. You will find plenty of them in Snowdonia National Park in Wales. From Aber Falls, Devil’s Appendix to Fairy Falls, there are plenty to choose from.

As the leaves begin to change color, the waterfalls take on a new beauty. The contrast of the white water against the fall foliage is simply stunning.

Where to stay and eat in Snowdonia: There are many great hotels to stay in while visiting this waterfall country. Some of the best hotels include Palé Hall or The Buckley Arms. If you’re looking for a delicious quick meal in Snowdonia, try the paninis at the Moel Siabod Cafe.

Paulina | UK Every Day

19. Stockholm, Sweden for Fall Markets + Apples

If you are looking to visit a Northern Europe city in the fall, you can’t go wrong with Stockholm! 

The weather in the Swedish capital in the fall tends to be on the cool side, with highs in the mid 50s F (10+ C) in September and high 30s (3 C) in November, so dress warm and enjoy all the fall offerings, from seasonal markets to fall menus in restaurants.

The city is also known for its beautiful fall foliage on trees lining the streets and in the many city parks.

One of the best things to do in Stockholm regardless of the season is a visit to the Old Town, and in the fall you’ll have the added advantage of lower crowds.

Sip hot chocolate at Stortorget, gawk at the colorful facades, step inside the Stockholm Cathedral, and watch the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace.

At Skansen, the popular open-air museum, you’ll find fall markets to browse. Enjoy a bowl of pea soup or warm schnapps and get fresh fruit, fresh-baked bread, and fruit preserves to enjoy at your hotel! There are also activities for kids and adults alike. 

There are a couple of apple orchards close to the city, and you’ll want to put apple picking in Stockholm on your fall itinerary. One of the orchards, Edeby Gard, is close to Drottningholm Palace, one of Stockholm’s top attractions. So it’s super convenient to visit.

If the weather gets too cold for comfort, Stockholm is packed with museums, from the ABBA Museum to the Vasa Museum. You can also tour the underground art in Stockholm’s subway stations.

Where to stay and eat in Stockholm: Stay at the Lydmar Hotel in the city center. Portal is an excellent restaurant to try, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. 

By Dhara | It’s Not About the Miles

20. Berlin, Germany for the Festival of Lights

Berlin is always a great destination, but the colors of fall and the change in the weather make Autumn the perfect time to visit.

One of the city’s major drawcards for fall is the quirky Pumpkin Festival held in Schöneberg where over 10,000 pumpkins take center stage and are made into all sorts of yummy goodies like soups and breads. 

Another reason to visit Berlin in the fall is the stunning Festival of Lights where Berlin’s most famous icons, such as the Brandenburg Tor, are lit up at night.

The cooler weather is also perfect for exploring Berlin’s museum attractions, including a stop to see the 3000-year-old Nefertiti bust at the Neues Museum.

Nearby, you’ll also be able to visit the ornate Berliner Dom, an enormous cathedral with rooftop views of the city where the beautiful autumn leaves can be viewed from above.

Finally, the weather is not yet too unbearably cold to visit the haunting Sachsenhausen Concentration Camp Memorial site for a deeper understanding of the horrors faced in World War II. You’ll find it just outside the city.

Where to stay and eat in Berlin: Book at the Garden Living Boutique Hotel in the Mitte area. It’s close to attractions as well as the Berlin Station for easy transport. For hearty German fare and a homey ambiance, a dinner at Sophieneck is a must.

Emma | Emma Jane Explores

21. Ashford Castle, Cong, Ireland for a Castle Stay

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland—and most romantic fall destinations in Europe— check out Ashford Castle in Ireland.

This historical castle is a fully-operating luxury hotel set on a gorgeous 350-acre estate. It’s the perfect spot for a visit on an Irish road trip.

In fall, the Ashford Castle estate is incredibly stunning as the well-manicured landscape turns brilliant colors of yellow, orange, and red. There are also fewer visitors for a more laid-back and relaxing visit.

Consider staying several nights in the castle. Ashford Castle is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and warm hospitality. In fall, you can fully experience the castle’s cozy ambiance with crackling fires, plush interiors, and elegant decor. 

Plan to enjoy afternoon tea overlooking the castle gardens, eat dinner in the castle’s dungeon, play a game in the billiards room, and enjoy a relaxing spa treatment.

There are multiple outside activities that you can enjoy on the castle grounds, including horseback riding, archery, falconry, lake cruises, and golf. 

But be sure your Ireland packing list includes cozy, warm clothes and an umbrella this time of year!

Where to stay and eat in Cong: Ashford Castle Lodge, of course! (Book your stay on the hotel website to stay in the castle itself if your budget allows.) Reserve ahead for this bucket list tea.

Janae | Adventures with TuckNae

22. Edinburgh, Scotland for the Storytelling Festival

Autumn in Edinburgh is ideal for exploring this enchanting city, with its cobblestone streets, beautiful fall foliage, spooky tours, and delicious food. 

If you visit during October, you’ll want to consider visiting the Scottish International Storytelling Festival; It’s a famous and traditional festival that changes its theme every year and lasts between mid-October till right before Halloween.

If you dream of stunning fall foliage, then stroll Princes Street Gardens; it’s filled with gorgeous autumn foliage, with views of Edinburgh Castle.

If you are feeling adventurous right before sunset, hike up to Arthur’s Seat; at the top, you’ll be rewarded with epic views of Edinburgh. 

One of the best things to do in Autumn? Join a walking tour to learn about Harry Potter! Or if you’re brave enough, dive into a ghost tour to uncover all the haunted areas tucked away in Edinburgh. 

Where to stay and eat in Edinburgh: Stay near Old Town at The Cheval Old Town Chambers on High Street for easy access to the royal mile, Edinburgh Castle, and princess street gardens. For tasty Scotch eggs, Scottish gammon, and haggis, try Makars Gourmet Mash Bar.

Yesenia | The Sisters Who Voyage

23. Venice, Italy for Gondola Races

In Autumn, Venice, Italy sees smaller crowds, lower prices, and perfect weather.

If you’re visiting in the beginning of September, make sure to check out Regata Storica.  Regata Storica is a water pageant with gondola races along the Grand Canal.  It’s an event that’s taken place for thousands of years! 

On the first weekend of October head over to Sant’Erasmo for Festa del Mosto.  Festa del Mosto is the celebration of freshly pressed grape juice.  It features wine tastings as well as live music. 

On a late October visit, celebrate Halloween Venetian-style by dressing up in costume and enjoying a night out bar hopping.

Where to stay and eat in Venice: Palazzo Keller offers clean, competitively priced rooms in a great location. For great eats, head to Rio Novo. It’s ideally situated along the water and offers great seafood, pasta, pizza, and canal views.  

Chelsea | Adventures of Chels

24. Brasov, Romania for Dracula’s Castle

Brasov truly shines in the fall. Nestled among the Carpathian Mountains in Romania, this picturesque city boasts a unique blend of medieval architecture, unusual history, and natural landscapes.

Forests and mountains are painted in vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold. 

After exploring the many things to do in Brasov, head to the nearby Carpathian Mountains for numerous hiking trails that wind through landscapes filled with fall colors.

Or take a day trip to Bran Castle, which is said to be the inspiration for Dracula’s Castle. The fall season is a perfect time to visit, with Halloween celebrations underway to add an extra layer of intrigue and ambiance. 

Where to stay and eat in Brasov: Grand Hotel Belvedere is conveniently located near all the attractions in Old Town and boasts outstanding views of Brasov from the rooms’ balconies. 

Harvest season is an ideal time to sample the local cuisine. Try La Ceaun in the main square for traditional Romanian food. Sarmale, stuffed cabbage rolls, and polenta are all excellent comfort food on chilly autumn days.

Erin | Wanderlust with Kids

25. Budapest, Hungary for the Contemporary Art Festival

Thanks to its location in Eastern Europe, Budapest has the perfect fall climate, with little chance of rain. There’s also tons of greenery in the city which makes for a leaf peepers dream.

When the day begins to cool down, pop into the extremely popular Cafe Budapest Autumn Festival which showcases contemporary dancing, opera, jazz, photography, and so much more! 

Budapest itself has tons of activities, both inside and out, so no matter what you enjoy, Budapest has it covered. 

Party at the famous Ruin Bars or visit the historic Buda Castle and learn everything about how the two cities of Buda and Pest became one.

The Szechenyi Thermal Baths are also a great experience after a long day exploring the beautiful city and an absolute must for a visit to the Pearl of the Danube. 

Where to stay in Budapest: The Stories Boutique Hotel is just a stone’s throw from Szimpla Kert (Ruin Bars) and walking distance from the shopping district.

The best restaurant in the whole city, Drum Cafe Budapest, is nearby. If you’re after some amazing food food at local prices, this is the place to go!

Alex and Leah | Alex and Leah On Tour

26. Istanbul, Turkey for the Coffee Festival

Founded in the 7^th century, the city of Istanbul is the economic and cultural hub of Turkey.

And in fall, the weather is dry and warm, ranging from 20 to 25 Celsius (68 to 77 Farenheit).

Among must-see places to visit, Istanbul’s main attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Site The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia Mosque, and the 6th-century Basilica Cistern.

In fact, the city hosts the two-month Istanbul International Biennial Festival this season, which is the biggest, jam-packed cultural event showcasing contemporary art on offer. Plus, the Istanbul Coffee Festival celebrates coffee from all around the world.

As the city has a blend of traditional and modern cultures, the food in Turkey is delicious and unique. The flavors used in the cuisine are prominent with lots of spices. Definitely try the Kebabs, Baklava, and Turkish pizza.

Where to stay in Istanbul: Stay near the old town for best proximity to attractions, including the Grand Bazaar. The Crowne Plaza Istanbul is a 5-star hotel near the Grand Bazaar.

You’ll find plenty of authentic Turkish food in Istanbul’s Old Town. For best kebabs, head to Darkhill Hotel Sky Restaurant.

Raksha | Solopassport

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