As summer ends, a new kind of travel magic begins. The air gets crisp, landscapes explode with color, and summer crowds disappear, creating a more peaceful and authentic travel experience.
At Travala, we believe autumn offers the best travel opportunities and a perfect time to visit many destinations, often out of peak season. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 10 fall travel destinations to inspire your next adventure. Whether you want to see vibrant fall foliage, attend cultural festivals, or just find a cozy escape, our guide will help you find the perfect fall destination.
Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Travel
Beyond the stunning scenery, autumn travel has key benefits. The cooler weather makes exploring and outdoor activities much more pleasant than during the summer heat. With fewer tourists, you can expect shorter lines at major attractions and better availability for accommodations. This means you can experience places with a genuine local feel..
The shoulder season also offers more affordable prices on flights and hotels. With everything from amazing fall foliage to cultural events and seasonal food, autumn is truly a traveler’s dream.
How We Chose the Best Fall Destinations
Our selection of the best travel destinations in the fall is based on a combination of factors, including:
- Scenic Beauty: We looked for places where the fall colors are particularly spectacular.
- Cultural Experiences: Our choices offer unique seasonal events, like harvest festivals and local celebrations.
- Ideal Weather: The destinations on our list feature mild weather perfect for exploration.
- Crowd-Free Charm: We prioritized spots that offer a peaceful alternative to the summer rush.
- Traveler Reviews: Our selections are beloved by those who appreciate the unique benefits of autumn travel.
New England, USA
A perfect fall destination, New England is renowned for its stunning autumn beauty. Drive through the White Mountain National Forest, stroll through small towns with historic sites, or visit farmers’ markets for seasonal bounty. Whether exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway or enjoying a cozy cabin stay in Vermont, this region is a leaf-peeper’s dream as you take in the surrounding mountains.
- Best time: Late September to mid-October
- Why go: Famous fall foliage, covered bridges, and charming small towns are ideal for a week or more of exploration
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the USA.
Kyoto, Japan
While the cherry blossom season is prime time for fall, autumn in Kyoto is equally beautiful. Temple gardens are aglow with red maples, and local hot springs offer a relaxing autumn escape. The cooler weather makes this the ideal time for walking tours to explore the city’s temples, shrines, and historic areas.
- Best time: Late October through mid-November
- Why go: Brilliant foliage, peaceful temples, and cultural immersion with fewer tourists
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Japan in 2025.
Munich, Germany
Munich becomes the cultural heart of Europe in the fall thanks to Oktoberfest, where beer tents, folk music, and Bavarian traditions take center stage. Beyond the festival, you’ll find crisp air, historic sites, and a pleasant vibe once the summer crowds have gone.
- Best time: Late September to early October
- Why go: Oktoberfest festivities, cooler temperatures
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Germany in 2025.
Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City offers European charm for the whole family, alongside North American fall colors. Wander cobblestone streets framed by golden leaves, take a day trip along the St. Lawrence River, or enjoy warming dishes in cafes overlooking autumn’s golden light.
- Best time: Early October
- Why go: Colorful foliage, historic old town, and a romantic fall atmosphere
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Tuscany, Italy
Autumn is harvest time in Tuscany, when vineyards buzz with activity and rolling hills glow in golden hues. This season is perfect for winery visits, food festivals, and exploring medieval towns without the summer crowds. You’ll want to visit for at least a week to take advantage of everything Tuscany has to offer.
- Best time: September to October
- Why go: Grape harvest, authentic cuisine, wine tastings, and picturesque landscapes
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Italy in 2025.
Seoul, South Korea
Unlike a lot of other major cities, Seoul in autumn offers vivid park colors and cultural festivals throughout the city. From exploring palaces surrounded by fall foliage to enjoying seasonal snacks from street vendors, Seoul is a vibrant and accessible fall destination in Asia.
- Best time: Mid-October to early November
- Why go: Stunning autumn leaves, rich cultural traditions, and lively seasonal events
✈️ Travel guides:
Edinburgh, Scotland
Misty mornings and historic streets lined with golden leaves make Edinburgh a magical stop in the fall. With fewer crowds compared to summer, explore the Royal Mile, slip into cozy pubs, or take a day trip into the Scottish Highlands for spectacular views. You’ll be pleasantly surprised with what Edinburgh has on offer.
- Best time: October
- Why go: Romantic city atmosphere, whisky tastings, and opportunities for scenic walks in rolling hills nearby
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the United Kingdom in 2025.
Patagonia, Argentina/Chile
Fall’s cooler weather and solitude make Patagonia perfect for adventurous travelers. Striking mountain backdrops, fewer hikers on trails, and golden hues across the landscape create one of the world’s most dramatic fall travel destinations. There’s also a whole host of diverse wildlife to view as part of your trip that include pumas, penguins and whales.
- Best time: March to April (Southern Hemisphere fall)
- Why go: Off-season hiking, breathtaking scenery, fewer tourists
✈️ Travel guides:
- Explore the secrets behind the best time to book flights.
- Find the Best Time to Book International Flights & Save.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
- Find out How to Pay for Flights with Cryptocurrencies.
Istanbul, Turkey
In autumn, Istanbul enjoys sunny days, cooler temperatures, and shorter lines at iconic historic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Street vendors and cultural festivals add vibrancy, making it the ideal season for both city exploration and boat rides along the Bosphorus.
- Best time: September to November
- Why go: Comfortably cool travel, rich history, and unique East-meets-West culture
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Turkey in 2025.
The Smoky Mountains, USA
With lush valleys and sweeping mountain views, the Great Smoky Mountains burst into brilliant red and orange each fall. Cozy cabins, scenic hiking trails, and wildlife viewing make this region an all-American favorite for both brief stays and longer getaways.
- Best time: Mid-October
- Why go: Iconic fall foliage, outdoor activities, and welcoming small towns nearby
✈️ Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the USA.
Tips for Planning a Fall Getaway
- Book Early: While fall is the shoulder season, peak foliage periods (especially in places like New England) can book up quickly. Secure your flights and accommodations a few months in advance.
- Pack Layers: Fall weather can be unpredictable. Pack clothing that you can easily layer, as well as a waterproof jacket or rain gear.
- Check Local Events: Research festivals and events in your chosen destination beforehand, as they can attract a temporary influx of visitors.
Other Cozy Fall Destinations to Consider
Looking for more options? Here are a few autumn spots worth adding to your list:
- Prague, Czech Republic: Explore a city of Gothic spires set against a backdrop of golden autumn leaves.
- Vancouver, Canada: Enjoy mild fall weather and a variety of outdoor activities with stunning mountain views.
- Colorado Rockies, USA: Witness the breathtaking sight of aspen trees turning a brilliant yellow.
- Loire Valley, France: Discover elegant châteaux amidst vineyards during the harvest season.
- Nara, Japan: Take a day trip from Kyoto to see deer wandering through parks filled with colorful fall leaves.
When to Book Hotels and Flights for Fall Travel
For the best deals, book 3-8 weeks in advance for domestic getaways and at least two months ahead for international trips. Fall is often shoulder season, meaning savings compared to summer peak travel while still enjoying prime conditions. Secure early-bird hotel deals, flexible cancellations, and exclusive discounts when booking on Travala.
Book Your Fall Adventure with Travala
With access to over 3 million travel products worldwide, Travala allows you to easily find the perfect hotels, flights, and activities for your trip in the fall, all on a single platform.
Travala also provides unrivaled payment flexibility, enabling you to book travel with over 100 cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Book today and explore more destinations to visit during spring!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the best travel destinations in the fall?
The best travel destinations in the fall are those that offer a combination of vibrant scenery, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds. Top picks include:
- New England, USA, is famous for its fiery fall foliage and charming small towns.
- Kyoto, Japan, is known for its stunning red and gold maple leaves that transform ancient temples and gardens.
- The Scottish Highlands, Scotland, offers dramatic, misty landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Tuscany, Italy, is perfect for food and wine lovers, with the grape harvest in full swing.
- The Great Smoky Mountains, USA, is a paradise for “leaf-peeping” with incredible mountain views.
Q: Why is fall (autumn) a good time to travel?
Fall is the ideal time to travel for several reasons:
- Fewer Crowds: The peak summer tourist season has ended, meaning popular attractions and cities are far less crowded.
- Pleasant Weather: The heat and humidity of summer are gone, replaced by cooler temperatures and crisp air that are perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Stunning Scenery: From fiery fall foliage to golden-hour light, autumn landscapes are a photographer’s dream.
- Affordable Prices: Flights and hotels are often more budget-friendly during the shoulder season.
Q: Which countries or regions have the most colorful fall foliage?
For the most spectacular fall foliage, consider these regions:
- New England, USA: The quintessential destination for a reason, with its mix of maple and birch trees.
- Japan: Particularly in Kyoto and Hokkaido, where the “koyo” (autumn colors) are a major event.
- Canada: Regions like Quebec and the Rocky Mountains offer stunning displays of gold, orange, and red.
- Scotland: The deciduous trees in the Scottish Highlands provide a beautiful contrast to the rugged landscape.
- South Korea: Places like Seoraksan National Park and cities like Seoul offer vibrant autumn scenery.
Q: Where can you travel in the fall to avoid large crowds?
To find a peaceful escape, consider places that are typically less crowded after the summer rush:
- The Greek Islands: The water is still warm, but the crowds are gone, making it perfect for quiet exploration.
- Patagonia, Argentina/Chile: Fall in the Southern Hemisphere offers off-season hiking and a sense of solitude amidst dramatic scenery.
- The Scottish Highlands: While Edinburgh gets some tourists, the wider Highlands are tranquil and ideal for a peaceful retreat.
- The Lake District, England: Enjoy beautiful scenery and cozy pubs without the summer bustle.
Q: What are some cozy destinations for a fall getaway?
For a cozy escape, think of destinations that embrace the season’s comforting atmosphere:
- The Smoky Mountains, USA: Book a cabin with a fireplace for the perfect mountain retreat.
- Napa Valley, California: Enjoy winery visits and crisp evenings after a day of wine tastings.
- Quebec City, Canada: Its cobblestone streets and European charm feel incredibly cozy when framed by colorful leaves.
- The Lake District, England: Ideal for a retreat of long hikes followed by warm meals in traditional pubs.
Q: Which festivals or cultural events take place in the fall? (e.g., Oktoberfest, harvest festivals)
Fall is a time of harvest and cultural celebration around the world. Popular events include:
- Oktoberfest (Munich, Germany): The world-famous beer festival that celebrates Bavarian culture.
- Día de los Muertos (Mexico): A vibrant and spiritual celebration honoring deceased loved ones.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (East and Southeast Asia): A harvest festival celebrated with mooncakes, lanterns, and family gatherings.
- Harvest Festivals: Many regions, especially wine-producing areas like Tuscany and the Loire Valley, host festivals to celebrate the harvest.
Q: What destinations are budget-friendly during the fall?
As a shoulder season, fall often provides significant savings. Some of the most budget-friendly destinations include:
- Budapest, Hungary: Offers affordable accommodations and thermal baths.
- Mexico City, Mexico: Known for its low-cost food and vibrant cultural scene.
- Vietnam: The shoulder season brings lower prices for flights and hotels, especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City.
- Georgia (the country): A hidden gem with incredible food, wine, and hiking at a low cost.
Q: What is the best time to book hotels and flights for fall travel?
For the best deals, it’s best to book your travel at least 6-8 weeks in advance. This period falls outside of the peak summer booking rush and allows you to take advantage of shoulder-season savings. For the lowest fares, consider traveling during late September or early November, avoiding major holidays like Thanksgiving.
Q: What should you pack for a fall trip?
Packing layers is key for a fall trip, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. Your packing list should include:
- Warm layers: Sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a light jacket.
- Waterproof outerwear: A rain jacket or windbreaker is essential for unexpected weather.
- Comfortable footwear: Bring a pair of walking shoes or boots suitable for varied terrain.
- Accessories: A scarf, a hat, and an umbrella can provide warmth and protection.
Q: Can you book fall travel using cryptocurrency on Travala?
Yes, Travala is a crypto-native travel platform that allows you to book travel with over 100 cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. With access to over 3 million travel products worldwide, Travala allows you to easily find the perfect hotels, flights, and activities for your trip in the fall, all on a single platform.
