Autumn Travel: Why Fall is the Best Time to Visit Europe

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Yes, I know, the summer months are the perfect time for traveling and enjoying beautiful beaches. But what else can we do during the autumn or winter besides, well, travel too?

As someone born and raised in Europe, I can state that the European shoulder season can provide more authenticity as the summer crowds diminish.

That means that streets in Budapest or Rome are quieter, Greece’s popular tourist spots are less crowded, and Paris cafes are more intimate.

This allows for more intensive travel experiences, which means more interaction with the locals and their culture than during the summer season.

From wine tastings in Tuscany wineries to enjoying traditional Dutch dishes in Amsterdam, autumn invites us to slow down and dig deeper into our experiences.

And isn’t that exactly why we travel?

So, here are some travel tips and reasons to visit Europe this autumn.

Scenic Splendors and Seasonal Activities

Just imagine the golden vineyards of Italy or the red and orange foliage of Scotland’s highlands.

As autumn comes to Europe, fall foliage transforms the landscapes into a colorful fairytale.

If this is your first time here, you will quickly realize that autumn in Europe is not just a feast for the eyes. It is a blend of natural beauty and culinary delights that make the season truly special.

Ah, you can tell I’m from Europe, right?

Destinations Unveiled: Where to Go This Fall

Italy: A Feast for the Senses in Autumn

I could say that Italy is a nice idea, but Anna Akhmatova put it better: “Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life.”

So, what should you do during this dream?

In regions like Tuscany, I recommend joining local experts in truffle hunting. If you don’t feel like “hunting,” just enjoy a glass of wine, because Tuscany is one of the best regions in Italy to do that.

Also, Venice’s romantic gondola rides get more intimate, and Florence becomes even more beautiful. The beautiful Duomo is now yours to explore at leisure.

Can you just imagine early autumn and the intimate glow of street lamps that illuminate cobblestone streets as night sets in, inviting you to enjoy a glass of wine at a quiet trattoria while mushroom risotto and roasted chestnuts smell in the air?

Ah, you gotta love autumn. I mean, before the massive rains start, of course.

Germany: Embracing Tradition and Nature

Okay, let’s switch from cozy autumn romance to something more lively, shall we?

Oktoberfest in Munich is a must-see while visiting Germany in the autumn.

This gigantic festival transforms Munich into a celebration of joy, music, food, and, of course, beer. Also, try pretzels and traditional sausages. I am not a huge fan, but you just have to try it.

I guarantee that there will be plenty of laughs and new friendships. Especially if you take an extra drink. Or a few of them.

And when you’re done with Oktoberfest and well rested, I recommend visiting small German towns with stunning castles, such as Neuschwanstein. Its autumn surroundings are rich in red, orange, and golden tones. It is amazing.

Looking at it, you just can’t help but wonder why you’ve never considered Germany as an autumn vacation before?

Spain: Autumnal Warmth and Cultural Festivities

I believe Spain is always a good idea. But autumn has a unique warmth, particularly in Barcelona or southern Spain.

As the harvest season begins, Mediterranean cuisine becomes a celebration of fresh, local ingredients. Markets are filled with tomatoes, olives, and late-season fruits.

Open cafés are bustling with activity, and both residents (who are delighted with fewer crowds) and tourists enjoy sipping red wine and enjoying seasonal foods such as paella or delicious tapas.

Spanish festivals also “spring to life” in the autumn. So I recommend Barcelona’s crazy La Mercè, which features dances, fiestas, and parades.

Is it just me, or do you also want to book your flight to Spain right now?

Switzerland: Natural Beauty Surrounded by the Alps

To be honest, I’m thinking about visiting Switzerland this autumn. Again.

Switzerland is a beautiful country if you enjoy nature, lakes, and mountains (just imagine those autumn colors).

Cities such as Zurich and Lucerne have attractive streets lined with stores and cafés, while Zermatt offers nice hiking routes.

However, I was amazed by the autumn in the small village of Leuk. Why? Popular cities are comparable to some of our Croatian cities, but this area has a stunning mountain landscape that celebrates slow-motion living.

So it’s not something you see every day. However, when you want to be one with nature and escape the noise of the cities, places like these are great.

Read More: Swiss Delight: Top 10 Things to Do in Switzerland

Croatia: Wander Through Croatia’s Scenic Wonders

I’m always proud when my country, Croatia, appears on such lists. That is certainly deserved.

Dubrovnik is always a fantastic idea, regardless of the time of year. The city from Game of Thrones really looks so powerful.

Autumn transforms our famed Plitvice Lakes National Park into a fairytale, with stunning warm colors reflected in the crystal-clear waters.

Also, autumn is truffle season in charming Istria. So I recommend truffle hunting tours and truffle-based cuisine at local restaurants while taking in the Adriatic Sea view.

By the way, did you know that the largest truffle in the world was found in Croatian Istria?

France: Chic Autumn in Gold, Red and Orange

I could only write three words: autumn in Provence. Okay, there is a Loire Valley, too.

Or Paris, with freshly made croissants and nice cafés, with people enjoying warm drinks while watching the world go by.

Although I must admit that I was a little disappointed by the rainy Parisian streets—not because they are not lovely enough—there were far fewer people, and I think that people play an important role in Paris’ charm by creating that “chic” feeling.

So, on my next trip to Paris, I would absolutely attempt to avoid the rain in order to experience it to its fullest.

Anyway, I also recommend the Montmartre Grape Harvest in October, with live music and local cuisine.

However, we must confess that the French autumn sounds very chic.

Turkey: Golden Leaves and Ancient Wonders

How about the breathtaking Cappadocia? Yes, this magical place is in Turkey.

During the autumn season, Turkish local markets fill up with seasonal goods like pomegranates, figs, and chestnuts. Can you imagine the colors and aromas?

Pamukkale and the Aegean shore have gorgeous landscapes as well.

Even if you “just” enjoy tea in a quiet café overlooking the Bosphorus, I believe that Turkish “chaos” is always a movie scene.

Slovenia: Breathtaking Colors, Unforgettable Moments

Lake Bled is a popular autumn getaway in Slovenia. The gorgeous fall foliage provides an excellent backdrop for wandering around the lake.

Wine districts like Goriška Brda and Posavje offer wineries, tastings, and great local cuisine.

Additionally, the charming city of Ljubljana hosts a variety of events, including the Ljubljana Autumn Festival, which celebrates art, music, and traditional cuisine.

Anyway, I guarantee that Slovenia is a tiny, well-organized country with excellent levels of security, cleanliness, and natural beauty.

Hungary: From Thermal Baths to Vineyards

Hungary also has a rich tradition, wonderful wines, and beautiful autumn scenery to offer.

I suggest exploring charming towns like Eger, where you can find some of Hungary’s greatest wines.

If you start to feel cold in the autumn weather, a glass of good wine can surely help, but you know what’s even better? Warm up at Budapest’s epic thermal baths. Isn’t it so autumnal?

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Budapest

Portugal: Fall in Love with Portugal in Fall

Pastel de Nata, Fado, Cristiano Ronaldo, and the World’s Oldest Bookstore. Could you guess the country?

Portugal is always an attractive destination.

I recommend visiting the beautiful Douro Valley, where you may sample famed Port wine while admiring the vineyard’s autumn color palette of reds and golds.

I also recommend exploring Lisbon’s lovely districts and taking the famed Tram 28.

Évora, a historic town, is another excellent choice. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can enjoy local harvest events with traditional cuisine.

And if you’re a beach lover, the beautiful Algarve is perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Whatever you choose, autumn in Portugal can’t be a bad idea.

When to Schedule Your European Fall Tour

Yeah, peak season is nice, but there is no way that you are not thinking about spending the shoulder season or off-season in Europe now.

So, when to come?

I recommend early autumn, between late September and late October. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring European cities.

There is less rain during this time of year, and autumn is still pleasant and beautiful, so keep that in mind.

Furthermore, southern Europe often offers warmer weather, while northern places can be cooler and rainier.

Also, be sure to check local calendars for harvest festivals to celebrate the season, and you will have an itinerary that captures the essence of Europe in the autumn.

So, who would say that there is no reason for post-summer depression because autumn can be just as exciting?

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