It is officially fall 2024, and as a fall baby, this is my favorite season. Fall is the time to decorate, do some life and house cleaning, and switch your wardrobe from light clothes to sweaters. For Americans, it is a season of pumpkin spice lattes and the beginning of the fall holiday season. From fall harvest festivals to Halloween and Thanksgiving, the fall season is a time to get in tune with nature and enjoy the epilogue of summer with pleasant weather and family get-togethers. It is also the perfect time to travel and Cy the world(shameless plug!) This post will discuss the beauty of traveling during the fall, offer 12 top European destinations to visit, and provide the best travel deals from different airline services and accommodations. Let’s begin!
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Why Fall Travel?
Traveling is worth it, regardless of the season. Adventures allow you to experience new cultures and traditions, help you grow as a person, are beneficial to your mental health, and can change your life. However, some factors can make or break your experiences, and one of those factors is season. High peak seasons, Summertime and Christmastime, attract many travelers worldwide. The high peaks in the northern hemisphere are between June and August, and in the southern hemisphere, they are between February and November. These high peak seasons are due to holidays, parents and their children being on vacation, and seasonal attractions.
At the beginning of the Summer, AAA reported 44 million travelers enjoying the season’s official start. When Labor Day approached, TSA projected 17 million travelers to take to the skies to enjoy their last days before back-to-school season. With global festivities, we see a high travel peak in the summer, winter, and spring, with some places such as Florida and South American countries receiving high levels of tourists during the spring. These peaks are again due to spring breaks and festivals. Even when people travel during the fall in the Northern Hemisphere, they travel primarily to countries in the Southern Hemisphere experiencing their spring season. Hence, the fall season is a low-peak travel season of all the other seasons, which is not necessarily negative.
A previous post, 7 Reasons Autumn is the Best Travel Season, detailed why people should love traveling during fall. In that post, we discussed how traveling during the low peak helps travelers get more intimate travel experiences. Because most travelers have returned to their home countries, there is more room to enjoy cities and attractions without stepping on other travelers’ shoes. Fewer crowds during the fall allow you to enjoy attractions up close and personal. You don’t need to stand on your tippy-toes to see the Mona Lisa or the Last Supper. Fall travel means no long queues, experiencing rude customer service personnel because they are rushing to accommodate larger crowds, or rushing to the hotel cafeteria for breakfast because the hotel is overbooked. You do not have to stand in line waiting for a long time before a place is open for you and your family. Fall travel is also a time to get in tune with nature. The fall foliage provides a beautiful stage for any travel destination, allowing travelers to bask in the earthy scent and crisp air while on road trips in New England, Colorado, or Tuscany. Fall travel not only helps you enjoy the natural beauty worldwide, but low peak means lots of travel savings.
Due to fewer tourists during this season, travel and accommodation companies reduce airfare and hotel prices to attract more travelers. Travel websites such as ASAP Ticket are running deals to hot destinations such as Las Vegas with prices starting from $49, and those who want to go to South American travel hotspots like Bogota can find tickets starting at $225. ASAP Ticket also has a 70% discount on travel tickets to Europe, Africa, the Philippines, and India. SouthWest is also offering low prices for fall destinations, and with the Rapid Rewards Program, you can combine the points you have amassed with cash to make an even cheaper purchase. I just purchased a $47 each-way flight with SouthWest to my hometown to celebrate my birthday with my family. Other sites for more affordable flight prices include Booking.com, Edreams, and Hopper. These websites are also great for finding accommodation at affordable prices, although I have only used Booking.com for my accommodation. For all these reasons, the fall season is the best time to travel, among other seasons, and one place to enjoy the season is in Europe.
Why Travel to Europe for the Fall?
The Old Continent does not need any more publicity about why people should visit it every year or every season. Europe has maintained its status as the most visited continent for decades. In 2023, it welcomed 708 million international tourists, solidifying its status as the most popular travel destination for global tourism. In 2022, travel and tourism added $1.9 trillion US Dollars to the European Gross Domestic Product(GDP), illustrating the high demand for European destinations among travelers. These facts display why Europe is a popular travel destination regardless of season, so what makes traveling in the fall any different than other seasons in a travel hot spot like Europe?
As mentioned above, although high peak travel seasons are during the spring, summer, and winter, the fall season provides many benefits that the other seasons do not. Imagine not waiting long to enter the Eiffel Tower or go on top of the Arc de Triomphe. Imagine staying at a nice hotel overlooking the Colosseum without costing you an arm and a leg. Imagine walking the cobblestone streets of Lake Como and enjoying the serene site of the lake and mountains without bumping into people. Since Europe attracts so many travelers during the high peak season, the fall season allows you to enjoy the wonders of European destinations without the hassles of the high peak season.
The fall season also gives the already magical European landscape a serene glow. With fall foliage, the European landscape provides comfort, relaxation, and appreciation. A post titled “Why Fall is the New Summer in Europe” details why fall travel in Europe is the best. These reasons include perfect weather, as some places in southern Europe are still experiencing summer weather, lower prices on accommodation and transportation, and festivals, which we also detailed in our last post. Another reason to enjoy fall travel in Europe, especially if you live in Europe for school and work, is that many fall holidays allow you to visit other European countries without compromising your school calendar or work schedule. European countries are also connected, and with transportation like the trainline, you are one train away to experience different countries on weekends. Now that we have established why autumn is the best time to travel, especially in Europe, let’s dive into the 12 Must-Visit European destinations.
12 European Destinations for the Fall
As a fall baby, a Scorpio, and someone who loves spending my birthday or any other day by a body of water, when I plan my fall vacation, I dream of being in a place where there is plenty of water, the sun is still out, and I get to have a summer break without it being summer. Being from New England, fall weather does not guarantee a sunny day at the beach to celebrate one’s birthday. When I was younger, I used to not like celebrating my birthday because of the gloomy weather, having a birthday on the eve of Halloween(my birthday is on October 30th), and having my birthday fall on an awkward weekday like Monday when nobody is too happy about going back to school let alone, be cheerful on someone’s birthday on a Monday. When I turned 20, I decided to celebrate my birthday by traveling and not regretting being born in the fall. The European countries I lived in had the same fall weather I loath until I experienced my perfect fall birthday in Spain, and everywhere looked forward to replicating that experience. Hence, the 12 European countries on this list helped rejuvenate my love for traveling and helped me celebrate being a fall baby like a summer baby. Here are the 12 Must-Visit Fall European Destinations.
- Spain
The first country to visit during the fall is Spain. The primary reason to love Spain during the fall is the weather. Fall in Spain is an extension of summer but without scorching heat. The weather is mild but filled with rays of sunshine. While the fall brings shorter days, where it gets darker around 4 or 5 PM, you can enjoy longer sunny days in Spain. Spain is also a great fall destination because of the festivities. One of the famous Spanish festivities during the fall is the Spanish National Day or Día de la Hispanidad, which occurs on the 12th of October—another fun adventure to enjoy while in Spain is the Grape Harvest. You can participate in helping harvest juicy grapes at Spain’s growing wine region, enjoying tours of vineyards, and going winetasting. Spain’s multi-faceted areas provide lots of fun things to do and experience during the fall. From the beachy towns of Valencia, Malaga, and Mallorca to the vineyard regions of La Rioja and Eltziego, there are many ways to enjoy the fall season in Spain. Although people prefer to visit the southern parts of Spain because the summer is still alive and well until mid-October and beyond, other parts of Spain too enjoy the summer in their regions during the fall.
I went to Barcelona in Cataluya for my 25th birthday week from October 22 to November 4th, 2022. My week-long trip to Barcelona starkly contrasted with what I imagined it would be. Being from New England, where it was dark and gloomy during the fall, with hurricane seasons bringing us a lot of rain, I was already in my winter coat, sweater, and scarf. I was also taking a lot of vitamin D supplements to combat the seasonal depression that comes with the gloomy fall season in the Northeast of the U.S. To my relief, my trip to Barcelona allowed me to enjoy the summer months a bit longer than anticipated. The weather was 80° and above during our week-long trip. I got to wear bright sunny dresses during the day and light-weight sweaters at night time. The palm trees by the Porte de Barcelona were evergreen, and we enjoyed summer activities such as cruising the Merriditerean Sea, enjoying some ice cream, and sunbathing. Plus, there’s nothing more fun than having Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona to yourself and not having to bump into many tourists. It was one of the best fall vacations I had experienced and solidified why Spain should be on everyone’s fall travel bucket list.
- Portugal
Like its neighboring Spanish counterpart, Portugal is also an exciting European destination to add to your fall travel bucket list. The country of Christiano Ronaldo offers you summer fun without the summer travel baggage. The sun is out, the attractions are less crowded, and everything is affordable, from flight fare to hotels to food. With the perfect weather, many indoor and outdoor activities will make you forget the gloomy fall seasons in other parts of Europe. You can go scuba diving or surfing in the Algarve. Its beach and fishing towns, such as Albufeira, allow you to enjoy the beaches all day and all night while enjoying delicious seafood. A visit to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which extends along the 60 kilometers(km), allows you to bask in natural beauty. From canals, islands, and sandy beaches, visitors enjoy nature and interact with its diverse ecosystem.
Like many countries, one of the best destinations to visit during the fall is the capital city of Lisbon. Famous for its vibrant culture, specular views, and delicious cuisine, the fall season gives you an intimate opportunity to discover Portuguese history and culture without too many distractors. You can visit historical sites like the Castle of Sao Jorge, Museu Gulbenkian, and Belem Tower without overcrowding, allowing you to have an intimate experience in Lisbon. Another city that makes a visit to Portugal worth it regardless of season but better in the fall is the port city of Porto. Labeled one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal by travel enthusiasts, Porto welcomes you to enjoy Portuguese winemaking and wine-tasting experiences.
At the Douro Valley, visitors are welcome to the enchanting landscape that produces Douro wines. Visitors can experience the luscious green pastures by cruise or train and from above in a helicopter. In this valley, you can visit towns, villages, and vineyards. A visit to the Douro Museum teaches visitors about the region and the wine, and they can indulge in delicious cuisine at the Companhia restaurant. Regardless of how long you plan to be in Portugal during the fall, whether it is a weekend or week-long trip, there are many places and things to do to enjoy your fall travel in Portugal.
- Cyprus
The third must-visit fall European destination is the island state of Cyprus. Cyprus’s climate welcomes visitors all year round. Label the “velvet season,” fall in Cyprus allows you to have a rejuvenating getaway. Cyprus offers many activities that make fall traveling even more exciting. Unlike other countries that receive many tourists in the summer, Cyrus’ pinnacle tourist season is between September and October, when tourists flock to the Mediterranean island to enjoy the summer weather and the fall financial benefits. Although fall attracts many tourists, there are still fewer tourists than the Spring and Summer seasons, allowing them to enjoy the vast beaches without bumping into anybody. You can enjoy a luxurious swim in one of the bluest bodies of water and enjoy water activities such as water skiing, catamaran sailing, or banana boat rides.
Due to the pleasant weather, you can enjoy archeological parks in ancient cities, such as a visit to Kourion near Limassol—another must-visit place while in Cyprus are its villages. Having lived in Europe, I am always fascinated with visiting smaller towns that do not attract many tourists and have intimate lessons about village life, their history, and the preservation of these towns. In Cyprus, visiting villages allows you to immerse in authentic rural life and indulge in various specialties. In some villages, you will learn about the jewelry business. In others, you will learn about the lace and almond businesses. No two villages are alike, giving you plenty of unique experiences on this small island. Like its counterpart on this list, Cyprus is also a winemaking region. Renowned for wine varieties like Commandaria, Cypriot wine villages allow you to tour wineries, enjoy samples, and get a chance to help farmers pick the grapes. The beautiful landscape will enable you to breathe clean air and tune in with nature.
Fall in Cyprus is also the time for festivities. September and October are packed with fun festivals to partake in and integrate with the locals. The first weekend in September, host the Aphrodite Opera Festival in Paphos with world-class opera performances. On September 14th, the country celebrates the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, dedicated to St. Helena Equal-to-the-Apostles. On October 1, the island celebrates Independence Day with island-wide concerts and festivities. From October 7th to 15th, Napa celebrates its annual Medieval Festival, and Limassol hosts its week-long Wine Festival from October 8th to the 15th. Finally, on October 28th, the island celebrates OXI Day, commemorating Greeks and Cypriots who fought during WWII, with concerts and parades. With all these fun things to do and experience during the fall, you should add Cyprus to your fall travel bucket list!
- Greece
One cannot talk about Cyprus without talking about Greece. These two countries share many historical and cultural resemblances, including the same national anthem. Like the countries on this list, Greece’s fall season is the best time for a visit. My favorite Greek city(and the only one I have ever visited), Thessaloniki, is a must-visit Greek destination in the fall. Its famous fall attraction is the Thessaloniki Film Festival, which attracts film lovers worldwide. The goal of this festival is to showcase never-before-seen movies, so if you are visiting Thessaloniki during the fall, you will have a chance to see a film that your friends have yet to see, giving you months in advance flex over your friends. Festival attendees can enjoy screening events, masterclasses, and an award ceremony.
The film festival is one of many things to look forward to while in Greece during the fall. The Olive harvest is another must-visit festivity in Greece during the fall. It is widely known that olives and olive oil have been Greek staples since ancient times. Greek methodology taught us that olive trees were associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom, warfare, and handicraft. Starting in October, the locals gather to harvest olives throughout Greece, and you can join in the fun regardless of where you visit while in Greece. Another product Greece is famous for is its wine. Enjoy a fall adventure in the vineyards of Mykonos, which offer many fun activities. Take a bicycle ride with a tour guide to ensure you have the best fall experience at the vineyards. Since Greece is surrounded by three bodies of water, including the Aegean, Ionian, and the Mediterranean Sea, the country offers plenty of beaches to enjoy during the fall season. You may choose to enjoy the beaches in Crete, Rhodes and Corfu.
Moreover, the perfect weather during the fall allows visitors to enjoy historical sights without the scorching heat or the cold winter. Many Greek historical sights are open areas without roofs or shades to protect you from the hot summer or the cold winters. Lindos Acropolis in Rhodes, Knossos Palace in Crete, and Parthenon and Temple of Olympian Zeus in Athens are some of the most famous open-space attractions that will have you at the mercy of extreme climate both hot and cold, making the fall season mild weather the best time to enjoy these historical sights without overcrowding and unbearable weather. However, one of the best reasons to visit Greece all year round is its impeccable and delicious cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. Hence, you should add Greece to your fall travel list.
- Malta
Another great European destination for your fall break is Malta. The Mediterranean island may be small but grand in providing a great vacation destination. Famous for its coastline, citadels, and wine production, Malta offers you an excellent background for the perfect sunny fall vacation. Its capital city, Valletta, made the UNESCO World Heritage Site list because it is “one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world.” The city comprises 16th-century Rennaissance constructions, ensuring you bask in its history and enjoy the arts and architecture without long queues and distractions. One site you can visit while in Malta is the Grandmaster’s Palace. Although it is the official office of Malta’s president, visitors can still see the interior of this grand estate. The state offers access to 80% of the palace to view its most impressive designs, art collections, and paintings. Another destination to enjoy while in Malta with fewer crowds during your fall getaway is St.John’s Co-Cathedral, where you will also have access to arts and paintings, such as the painting of the beheading of John the Baptist, among many others.
Moreover, visiting the island is complete with enjoying its beaches and bursts of sunshine. Malta has 300 days of sun, making it a great place to enjoy a sunny fall vacation. Extend your summer vacation in the fall at its many famous beaches. If you like to go to a lively beachside filled with lively bars and music or want a more secluded beach where you want to have the sea to yourself, Malta provides you with many options. Malta is the best place to enjoy life at the sea and nature simultaneously, with clear water, cliffs, and green pastures. The perfect weather allows you to enjoy hiking, scuba diving, and cruising trips around the coastlines. The ideal weather also will enable you to visit the medieval cities of Mosta and Mdina at your leisure. Next time you look for a fall destination, consider this small island.
- Scotland
One of the countries on my fall bucket list is Scotland. When I think of Scotland, I think of nature, old castles, and peace. When you google Scotland, the images of its landscapes give you a sense of peace, and you imagine breathing the crisp air surrounded by mountains. Although, for my birthday, I’d like to be in a sunny area, Scotland’s stunning landscapes make me want to have at least one birthday trip to its highlands. Imagine the view of its already stunning landscape as it transforms into a kaleidoscope of vibrant fall colors. Isn’t that a picturesque and fantastic scenery to indulge in? Fall in Scotland promises an unforgettable experience where you can relax in nature, enjoy rural life, and marvel at the history each corner of the country holds. The rolling hills, ancient castles, and serene lochs in red, orange, and gold hues set an ideal setting for nature enthusiasts and Instagram pictures.
Additionally, Scotland offers a wide range of exciting activities and experiences in the fall. You can take a road trip through the Scottish Highlands, immersing yourself in the countryside’s natural beauty and tranquility. For those who love hiking, you Hiking can explore the numerous trails and paths, such as the West Highland Way, and witness the stunning autumn foliage up close. History and royal enthusiasts can visit historic sites and castles. One castle open until the 28th of October is the Invararay Castle, the official residence of the Duke of Argyll. You can access both the castle and the luscious garden during your visit. Another castle to visit is Eilean Donan Castle. Situated on an island where three sea lochs meet, offering a splendid view, this castle is one of the most visited castles in Scotland. Its surrounding beauty has made it a great location to host fall weddings, as it will do this November. For those interested in Scottish culture, fall is the season of traditional festivals and events, including the Edinburgh Cocktail Festival, Enchanted Forest, and music festivals such as the Callendar Jazz & Blues Festivals. These events allow visitors to partake in lively celebrations and experience the rich heritage of Scotland. Moreover, indulging in warm and hearty Scottish cuisine, such as traditional stews and freshly baked goods, is a delightful way to savor the fall flavors in Scotland.
- Germany
Speaking of cocktails, let’s head to Germany. It is no secret that Germany is a fantastic destination to visit during the fall for many reasons, including nature, adventure, and festivals. Germany’s fall is the prologue to the winter Christmas festivities. One of the primary reasons people visit the Deutschland during the fall is because of Oktoberfest! Although we are already eight days into the celebration, as it began this year on the 21st of September and will end on October 6th, if you are in Europe or Germany, you can still catch the beer festivities. Should you miss Munich’s Oktoberfest this year, there is still a chance to see it during the spring as the city celebrates Frühlingsfest. However, Oktoberfest is not the only reason to enjoy fall in Germany. The main attraction to love in Germany during the fall is nature.
The country’s stunning landscapes transform into a vibrant display of autumn colors, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts to explore the picturesque scenery. Take advantage of the mild weather during the fall season to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the Black Forest, going on a road trip along the Moselle River, or taking strolls through the enchanting vineyards. Although Germany is famous for its beer, it is also a wine producer. Spend your German fall getaways at wineries. You may experience a fairytale-like fall break at the Moselle. Stroll through enchanting villages along the Moselle, indulge in its vineyards, and cruise along the river. Additionally, the fall season in Germany brings a delightful array of seasonal foods and beverages, including hearty stews and freshly baked pretzels, offering travelers a chance to indulge in authentic German culinary experiences.
Moreover, Germany’s rich history and cultural heritage offer unique and integrative experiences for travelers during the fall. Visitors can explore charming medieval towns such as Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where they can witness traditional fall festivals and markets showcasing local crafts, delicious treats, and lively folk music. The already vibrant city of Berlin also comes to life during the fall with cultural events, art exhibitions, and theater performances, providing travelers with a dynamic urban experience amidst the backdrop of autumn foliage. Fall in Germany helps you enter the coming winter festivals with joy, history, nature, and beer. From exploring historic castles, attending traditional wine festivals, or simply savoring its natural landscapes, a fall visit to Germany promises an unforgettable and enriching travel experience. Hence making it a great fall destination.
- Croatia
Another European destination for a sunny fall getaway is Croatia. Like its counterparts on this list, fall in Croatia equals pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a wide range of fun activities. The country’s mild climate during the fall makes it perfect for outdoor adventures and sightseeing without the sweltering heat of the summer months. Visitors can explore Croatia’s stunning coastline, historic cities, and charming villages in comfortable temperatures. The reduced tourist numbers give visitors a more immersive and intimate experience, less crowded attractions, and more opportunities to interact with locals. Croatia offers a myriad of fun fall activities that cater to various interests. One of the highlights is experiencing the breathtaking fall foliage in the country’s national parks, such as Plitvice Lakes National Park, the oldest and largest national park in Croatia. Krka National Park is another park where you can experience fall foliage, where medieval fortresses, archeological sites, and fauna waterfalls are seen. Visitors can go hiking through the vibrant autumn landscapes and witness the cascading waterfalls amidst the changing colors of the leaves. Boat excursions at both parks allow you to experience the park on foot and by boat.
For adventure enthusiasts, Croatia’s diverse terrain provides activities like cycling, trekking, and rock climbing opportunities. Furthermore, food and wine enthusiasts can indulge in the country’s rich culinary scene by participating in wine tastings, truffle hunting, and savoring traditional Croatian dishes at local restaurants and food festivals. Like in Greece, fall in Croatia also marks the beginning of the olive harvest season, offering visitors the chance to partake in olive-picking experiences and learn about the country’s olive oil production. In addition to outdoor pursuits, Croatia’s fall season presents cultural and historical attractions, including music and art festivals, traditional harvest celebrations, and visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Dubrovnik’s Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace in Split. The favorable weather, diverse activities, and cultural experiences make Croatia an ideal destination for fall travel.
- Italy
Although it is taking 9th place on my list, Italy is one of the top European destinations all year round. The breathtaking landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine make Italy an enchanting destination all year round. Add the fall foliage and travel savings to that, and you will have the perfect getaway. During the fall season, Italy offers a more tranquil and authentic experience as the tourist crowds diminish, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the true essence of the country. One of the must-visit cities in Italy during the fall is Florence. The city comes alive with a warm, golden hue as the fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop to its Renaissance architecture and winding streets. Visitors can wander through the charming alleys, visit world-renowned art galleries such as the Uffizi Gallery, and indulge in the city’s culinary delights at cozy trattorias.
Another captivating fall destination in Italy is the picturesque region of Tuscany, especially the city of Siena. Known for its medieval charm, Siena hosts the famous Palio horse race in the fall, offering a unique cultural experience for travelers. The rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside showcase a magnificent display of autumn colors, making it an ideal destination for leisurely drives and wine tasting at local vineyards. Another Italian fall destination is the Amalfi Coast. With its dramatic cliffs and sparkling Mediterranean vistas, add in the fewer crowds that the fall ensures, and you will indeed have a captivating fall getaway. Explore the charming coastal towns such as Positano and Ravello more relaxedly while savoring the fresh seafood and citrus fruits the region is renowned for. I would like to redo my Milan trip to explore places I did not get to travel to next time I visit Italy. However, I will add these fall destinations to enjoy Italy’s timeless beauty, diverse attractions, and favorable fall weather. Regardless of the destination, whether it be wandering through the historic streets of Florence, exploring the rolling vineyards of Tuscany, or basking in the coastal splendor of the Amalfi Coast, Italy offers a captivating journey for fall adventurers.
- Czech Republic
When I think of the Czech Republic, I think primarily of Christmas vacation because Prague is a famous Christmas destination. However, research has shown that the fall season provides the perfect prologue to the Christmas epilogue season in the Czech Republic. Renowned for its picturesque towns and stunning landscapes, fall foliage in the Czech Republic adds to the enchantedness of the country. With its spectacular landscapes, historical architecture, and vibrant culture, the Czech Republic offers an exceptional travel experience for visitors seeking a unique and memorable journey. During the fall, the country’s lush forests and rolling hills transform into a breathtaking display of autumn foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration and adventure.
Travelers can immerse themselves in the rich history of Prague. In this capital city, they can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and marvel at the impressive medieval architecture of Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. While in the Czech Republic, visit exceptional destinations such as Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its perfectly preserved medieval old town and stunning Renaissance castle. Visitors can also explore the charming village of Kutná Hora, famous for its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture, including the unique Sedlec Ossuary, adorned with intricately arranged human bones. For those seeking spa adventures, the Czech Republic’s renowned spa towns, such as Karlovy Vary and Mariánské Lázně, offer relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the beautiful autumn scenery. With its captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural richness, the Czech Republic is the perfect fall destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable and immersive experience. Include the Czech Republic in your fall travel destination if that’s you.
- Romania
Another Eastern European country that is perfect for fall travels is Romania. In 2023, it welcomed 13.65 million tourists, allowing them to enjoy its medieval castles, mountains, and rich history, among many other things. Like its counterparts, Romania is a captivating destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal place to visit during the fall season. Fall foliage allows its landscapes to come alive with a burst of vibrant colors as the foliage transforms into a breathtaking display of reds, oranges, and yellows. One of the best places to enjoy a peaceful Romanian fall is the picturesque countryside framed by the Carpathian Mountains. Explore tiny villages by the mountains, interact with the locals, and get to know Romanian history from their perspectives. There are also walking tours by this mountain where you make new friends while breathing in the fresh air in Transylvania. The country’s diverse range of forests, including the beech forests of the Carpathians, offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Romania’s rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks provide a unique and immersive travel experience. Visitors can explore medieval castles like Bran Castle and delve into the country’s folklore and legends. The fall season offers the opportunity to partake in local festivals and events, providing insight into traditional Romanian customs and celebrations. One of the events to look forward to is harvesting fresh produce such as apples, pumpkins, and grapes. These harvesting seasons bring along festivals where locals gather to celebrate their harvest and one another. For Americans who think we are the only ones to celebrate Halloween, visiting Romania during the fall will give you another Halloween experience, as Transylvania is associated with Dracula. You can experience the thrill of Halloween at Bran Castle. Overall, Fall in Romania promises a fun adventure. One where you can indulge in its enchanting landscapes, interact with Transylvanian culture and tradition, and enjoy festivities. Whether seeking natural beauty, cultural exploration, or a peaceful retreat, Romania offers an unforgettable autumn experience that will leave a lasting impression.
- Belgium
Belgium may not be the first destination that comes to mind when considering a sunny fall season, as the weather can be a bit gloomy with frequent rain showers. Still, it offers travelers a unique and enchanting experience during this time of year. One of the most notable advantages of visiting Belgium in the fall is the smaller crowds, allowing travelers to explore the country’s attractions without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. A previous post discussed why Belgium is an underrated tourist destination and offered 10 Must-Visit destinations in Belgium. That post outlined compelling destinations that make Belgium a great country to visit. Destinations include Ghent, Antwerp, Leuven, and the capital, Brussels. During the fall, these incredible destinations transform into a picturesque scene with vibrant autumn foliage colors.
However, one Belgian destination that ranks high during the fall is the Ardennes region. Travelers can immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the Ardennes region, where they can indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and nature walks amidst the stunning fall scenery. The Ardennes, with its rolling hills, dense forests, and charming villages, offers a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking a serene and idyllic escape. Additionally, fall is the perfect time to explore Belgium’s rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks. The country is home to over 400 castles, many open to the public. Visiting these magnificent castles during the fall allows travelers to appreciate their grandeur and history without the crowds that flock to these sites during the peak tourist season. Also, Belgium’s medieval towns, such as Bruges and Ghent, exude a timeless charm that is particularly captivating in the fall. Travelers can wander through the cobblestone streets, admire the medieval architecture, and savor the local delicacies in a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Visiting Belgium during the fall season offers travelers a chance to experience the country in a different light. From the stunning natural landscapes to the rich historical heritage, Belgium’s fall destinations are a compelling reason why Belgium should be a top destination.
In conclusion, consider going to Europe as the fall deepens and you are looking for a week-long trip. With great travel deals from websites like eDream ASAP Tickets and accommodation sites like Booking.com, European fall travel is necessary. Not only do you save on your transportation and hotels, but you also save more money while abroad as prices for attractions are low, and you save on time because you do not have to stand for a long time to wait to get to popular attractions. The 12 countries included offer you its history, cultural immersions through festivals, and pleasant weather so you can enjoy your travel adventure without discomfort. From Spain, Malta, and Croatia to Scotland, Romania, and Belgium, your fall adventure promises the best travel experiences! So pack up; fall has just begun, so make sure you get to enjoy it!
Until Next time,
Happy Fall Travels!