Best Destinations to Visit this Autumn in Europe
Introduction
Autumn in Europe? The very thought might evoke images of golden forests, harvest festivals, and cosy cafés. While summer often sees a rush of tourists, autumn offers a more tranquil and immersive experience. But where should you go? Let’s dive into the best spots.
Be sure to take a look at our other guides to the Europe, such as the Top 10 Things to do in London and the Where to find the Best Views in Prague. Enjoy!
5 Key Takeaways
Europe in Autumn’s Appeal: Autumn in Europe offers a unique charm, characterised by a tapestry of mesmerising colours – reds, oranges, and yellows – across its landscapes. This season provides a tranquil alternative to the bustling summer, with locales like vineyards in France and the Scottish Highlands showcasing their beauty in golden hues.
Advantages of Autumn Travel: Travelling in Europe during autumn means fewer tourists, which translates to less crowded destinations. Additionally, there’s the financial benefit as accommodation and flight prices often drop, giving travellers a chance to experience Europe’s splendour at a reduced cost.
Top Autumn Destinations: The article highlights five must-visit European destinations in autumn:
- Tuscany, Italy: Known for its wine harvest season, visitors can explore the art in Florence, cycle the countryside, and indulge in truffle hunting.
- The Scottish Highlands: Offering misty mornings and landscapes rich in autumnal colours, it’s a natural wonder with the North Coast 500 route and ancient castles to explore.
- Vienna, Austria: The city transforms into a cultural hub with its wine and jazz festivals, while the ambiance of its imperial palaces and cafés adds to the experience.
- Budapest, Hungary: Famous for its thermal baths, autumn in Budapest is enhanced by cruises on the Danube and its rich historical sites.
- The Dordogne, France: A lesser-known gem, the Dordogne Valley is filled with history, culture, and delectable French gastronomy.
Experiential Travel: Autumn travel in Europe isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiences. From attending local festivals, wine tasting, and truffle hunting in Tuscany, to driving scenic routes in the Scottish Highlands and soaking in Budapest’s thermal baths, there’s a wealth of immersive experiences on offer.
Practical Travel Insights: Travelling in autumn requires specific preparations. Packing layered clothing, checking opening times of attractions due to seasonal changes, and enjoying local autumnal produce are all integral to making the most of an autumnal European adventure.
Why Autumn in Europe?
A Golden Season
Firstly, there’s the appeal of the colours. The continent turns into a tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. Imagine strolling through a vineyard in France with leaves crunching underfoot, or gazing upon the Scottish Highlands cloaked in autumn hues.
Crowds and Costs
Summer, with its promise of sunny days and warm nights, often lures hordes of tourists to Europe. But come autumn, the bustling streets of Paris, the crowded beaches of Spain, and the overflowing canals of Venice start to empty, restoring a sense of calm and authenticity to these destinations.
Travelling in autumn means navigating through fewer crowds. This not only provides a more relaxed and intimate experience but also allows for spontaneous plans. Fancy a last-minute reservation at that famous Roman trattoria? Or perhaps an unplanned visit to Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum without the usual long queues? Autumn makes these desires feasible.
Furthermore, the practical advantages are noteworthy. With demand waning, many hotels and airlines lower their prices, making it a more affordable time to explore. Whether you’re booking a cosy bed and breakfast in the English countryside or looking for flight deals to Greece, there’s a good chance you’ll find a bargain. The allure of saving money, especially when it doesn’t come at the expense of the experience (and might actually enhance it), is hard to resist. After all, who wouldn’t relish the idea of enjoying Europe’s splendours without the summer throngs and at a fraction of the cost?
Top 5 Destinations
Tuscany, Italy
Why Visit
Ah, Tuscany in autumn! If you’ve dreamt of meandering through rolling vineyards awash with the warm hues of the harvest season, this is the time and place. Tuscany’s vineyards aren’t merely buzzing with activity during the wine harvest season; they are positively alight with a unique kind of energy. As one of Italy’s premier wine regions, Tuscany offers oenophiles the unbeatable opportunity to taste some of the globe’s most esteemed wines, right at the source and at the peak of freshness.
Highlights
Florence’s Art: The region’s capital is a treasure trove of Renaissance masterpieces. From Michelangelo’s David to Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, the art in Florence is an enchanting journey through history.
Countryside Cycling: Pedal through the heart of Tuscany, with its endless vineyards, rustic farmhouses, and sun-kissed olive groves. It’s a perfect way to take in the region’s unparalleled beauty at a leisurely pace.
Truffle Hunting: Join local experts and their trained dogs to hunt for this culinary gold. Later, indulge in dishes adorned with freshly unearthed truffles.
Wine Tours: Visit traditional wineries, learn the intricacies of the wine-making process, and enjoy extensive tastings, often complemented by delicious Italian cheeses and charcuterie.
Recommended Tour: From Florence – Wine tasting tour
The Scottish Highlands
Why Visit
The raw, rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands is heightened in autumn. With expansive moors and towering mountains blanketed in a riot of yellows, oranges, and reds, it’s like watching a live painting. The crispness of the air, the soft, low light, and the misty mornings lend an ethereal quality to the landscape, making it a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
Highlights
The North Coast 500: Often termed ‘Scotland’s Route 66’, this scenic drive takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes, from windswept coastlines to serene lochs.
Ancient Castles: Step back in time by visiting atmospheric castles like Eilean Donan and Urquhart, which hold tales of battles, betrayals, and romances.
Loch Ness Monster: While the existence of Nessie is debated, the beauty of Loch Ness isn’t. Whether you’re monster hunting or simply enjoying the serene vistas, it’s a must-visit.
Recommended tour: Inverness – Isle of Skye
Vienna, Austria
Why Visit
There’s an old-world charm about Vienna, especially come autumn. As leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, the city transforms into a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The season sees a surge in cultural events, making it a hotspot for art and music aficionados.
Highlights
Viennese Festivals: The wine and jazz festivals are especially noteworthy, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Experience local wines and toe-tapping jazz in a city renowned for its music.
Imperial Palaces: Wander the opulent rooms of Schönbrunn and Hofburg palaces, reminders of the city’s regal past.
Sachertorte: Vienna’s iconic chocolate cake, best enjoyed in a quaint café, paired with a steaming cup of coffee.
Recommended tour: Vienna sightseeing tour in a vintage car
Budapest, Hungary
Why Visit
Budapest shines in autumn. The city’s architectural splendours seem all the more resplendent against a backdrop of russet and amber. But what truly sets Budapest apart are its thermal baths, an oasis of warmth in the nippy autumn air.
Highlights
Thermal Baths: From the ornate Széchenyi to the historic Gellért, immerse yourself in warm, mineral-rich waters, often under a canopy of golden leaves.
Danube Cruise: Witness Budapest’s landmarks illuminated at dusk as you cruise along the Danube.
Historic Ruins and Stews: Dive deep into the city’s history by visiting its ruins, and later, warm up with traditional Hungarian goulash or pörkölt.
Recommended tour: Budapest evening cruise with Prosecco
The Dordogne, France
Why Visit
Nestled in southwestern France, the Dordogne Valley is an autumnal wonder. It’s a mosaic of medieval bastides, limestone cliffs, and serene rivers, all brought to life by the fiery colours of fall.
Highlights
River Canoeing: Drift down the Dordogne River, soaking in the beauty of the cliffs and châteaux that line its banks.
Medieval Exploration: Step back in time in towns like Sarlat and Rocamadour, where cobbled streets and ancient buildings transport you to the Middle Ages.
Gastronomic Delights: The region is famed for its duck confit, foie gras, and truffle dishes. Paired with the local wines, it’s a culinary journey like no other.
Recommended tour: Sarlat la caneda cave tour
Tips for Visiting Europe in Autumn
Pack Layers: European autumn can be unpredictable. Mornings might be chilly, afternoons warm, and evenings crisp. Layering is key to staying comfortable. Include light jumpers, scarves, and a waterproof jacket.
Sturdy Footwear: With the fallen leaves and potential for wet weather, it’s essential to have comfortable and water-resistant shoes, especially if you’re planning to walk a lot.
Check Opening Times: Some tourist attractions may have shorter hours or could be closed for the season. Always check in advance.
Book in Advance: While autumn is less busy than summer, popular destinations can still be crowded. Booking accommodations and key attractions in advance can ensure you don’t miss out.
Local Festivals: Autumn is a season of harvest festivals, wine celebrations, and cultural events in Europe. Research local events and festivals of the places you’re visiting to experience authentic culture.
Travel Insurance: Always a good idea, regardless of when you travel. Make sure it covers any autumn-specific activities you might be interested in, like wine tasting or mountain hiking.
Stay Healthy: As autumn transitions to winter, flu season begins. Carry hand sanitiser, consider getting a flu jab before travelling, and maintain basic health precautions.
Off-Peak Travel: Consider travelling during off-peak times, like mid-week, for cheaper transport fares and fewer crowds.
Leaf Peeping: Research the best spots for autumn foliage. From the forests of Bavaria to the vineyards of Bordeaux, know where to go for the best autumnal displays.
Local Produce: Autumn is harvest time. Visit local markets to enjoy seasonal produce like pumpkins, truffles, chestnuts, and fresh wines.
Daylight Hours: Days get shorter in autumn. Plan outdoor activities for earlier in the day and save indoor or well-lit activities for the evening.
Backup Plans: Given the unpredictability of the weather, always have a backup plan. If it’s too rainy for a day out in Vienna’s parks, perhaps the city’s museums or coffee houses can be an alternative.
Public Transport: In regions with less tourist traffic during autumn, public transport might have reduced frequency. Always check the schedules.
Stay Connected: Consider getting a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi. It’s especially useful for looking up directions, train times, or nearby restaurants on the go.
Respect Nature: If you’re visiting natural spots to enjoy the autumn foliage, remember to respect the environment. Stick to marked paths, don’t litter, and leave no trace.
Recommended Tours
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Autumn in Europe usually begins in late September and lasts through November.
Absolutely! From Oktoberfest in Germany to wine harvest festivals in France and Italy, there’s no shortage of celebrations
While there are fewer tourists in autumn, it’s always a good idea to book in advance for the best deals and choices.
Pack layers. The weather can be unpredictable. A mix of warm clothes, scarves, and comfortable shoes is ideal.
Final Thoughts
Europe in autumn is more than just a change in foliage; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. Whether it’s the serene landscapes, cultural events, or delightful gastronomy, there’s something for every traveller. So, pack those bags, grab a scarf, and embark on an unforgettable journey.
(Note: Ensure to check the official websites for any changes in ticket prices or visiting hours before planning your trip.) Also add us to your socials!
Thank you for reading!
Related articles: Places to Visit in December , Best Places to Visit in October , Best Places to Visit in November , Discover the World’s Most Colourful Cities
Recommended websites: Visit Europe
Author
Nick Harvey
Save this post (pin it)
Share this post
Related Articles
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
