When summer fades and the crowds start to dissipate, savvy travelers know it’s the perfect time to explore Europe. With milder temperatures and fewer tourists, Europe in the fall brings the chance to experience some of the most enchanting destinations.
Let’s explore the top European destinations for a perfect fall getaway this year! From Amsterdam to Dubrovnik, find out why these places shine in autumn and make a great case for off-peak traveling.
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Why You Should Travel to Europe in the Fall
When you travel to Europe in September or October, that’s considered the shoulder season. That means it’s in between the peak tourist months (summer) and the off-season (although, winter is also a popular time to visit some European cities). It’s also after the quietness of August, when most Europeans go on vacation, closing many local shops and restaurants.
The weather is more pleasant across Europe in the fall, not too hot and not yet cold like in winter. Of course, Europe is a large area to cover, so the weather can still vary greatly depending on where you go. Some areas will still be warm enough to enjoy long days at the beach, and others will have true fall weather. You can see some beautiful fall foliage in some places!
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London, England
London in the fall is a treat! As summer tourists leave, you can explore museums and attractions, like the British Museum or the Warner Bros. Making of Harry Potter tour, without the usually overwhelming crowds. Fall also marks the beginning of the theater season, when you can get tickets to a new West End production. The city’s royal parks, such as Hyde Park and Regent’s Park, transform into a spectacular display of fall foliage around late September or mid-October.
Cooler temperatures make it pleasant to wander through charming streets or along the Thames. While there is milder weather, keep in mind that London is not known for its sunny days. You likely will experience some overcast and rainy days, no matter the season. However, I think that’s just part of its charm, and autumn in London can be simply magical!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
If you’re looking for a picturesque view of Autumn in Europe, then Amsterdam is the place for you. The tree-lined canals are framed by golden leaves and there’s a cozy atmosphere throughout the city. The cooler weather is perfect for bicycling through the neighborhoods or taking leisurely canal cruises.
With fewer tourists, you can enjoy shorter queues at places like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Fall also brings major events like the Amsterdam Dance Event, a huge electronic music festival, and the International Documentary Film Festival (late fall/early winter). The city’s cozy cafes and stylish restaurants are perfect spots to be on crisp fall evenings. You can truly experience Amsterdam’s gezelligheid (coziness) at its best!
Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg is Germany’s second-largest city and is considered a hidden gem for travelers looking to visit Europe in the fall. As the leaves turn colors, the city’s various parks and the shores of the Alster lakes become a breathtaking canvas of autumn colors. With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy a more authentic experience of this vibrant German city.
The milder weather is perfect for exploring Hamburg’s maritime heritage, from the historic Speicherstadt warehouse district (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the modern HafenCity. In the fall, there are also a variety of festivals and events, including the Stadtfest Winterhude, a local culture, gastronomy, and entertainment festival. There’s also, of course, the Wandsbek Oktoberfest, which may have more crowds because, well, it’s Oktoberfest! (For this reason, Hamburg is one of the best places to travel in Europe in October)
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, called the “Pearl of the Danube,” has a unique charm in the fall. As the summer heat cools down, you can more comfortably explore the city’s stunning architecture and historical sites. Fall is the best time to indulge in Budapest’s famous thermal baths, with the cooler air making the warm waters even more inviting and relaxing. You won’t want to leave!
Stroll through the colorful City Park or take a scenic cruise along the Danube to admire the city’s golden foliage. With smaller crowds, you’ll have more time and space to savor traditional Hungarian cuisine in cozy restaurants.
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Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is a longtime favorite of luxurious and sight-seeing travelers alike. In the fall, there are crisp, comfortable days perfect for exploring the lake’s charming villages and grand villas, such as the famous Villa del Balbianello. The fall foliage creates a stunning backdrop against the deep blue waters, best appreciated from a scenic boat tour.
The crowds are also much smaller, and you can enjoy a more relaxed pace, savoring long lunches at lakeside restaurants in Varenna and peaceful walks through historic gardens like Villa Monastero. The autumn light casts a golden glow over the landscape, reflecting in the water and creating unforgettable views and photo opportunities. Fall in Lake Como offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a tranquil atmosphere.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, known for its picturesque seaside villages and stunning coastline, takes on a serene atmosphere in the fall. As summer crowds lessen, you can truly appreciate the beauty of towns like Positano and Ravello without the hustle and bustle. The weather is cooler but still pleasantly warm, perfect for hiking the famous Path of the Gods or taking leisurely boat trips along the coast.
Fall is also harvest time, giving you the chance to experience local wine and olive oil production firsthand. With fewer tourists, you’ll find it easier to engage with locals and immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also enjoy the nearby popular islands of Capri and Ischia with fewer crowds, too.
Check out some of my own adventures from Naples and along the Amalfi Coast here!
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Malta
Malta is a small archipelago in the heart of the Mediterranean that is a fantastic fall escape with a mild climate and fewer crowds. As the summer heat subsides, you can comfortably explore the UNESCO-listed capital of Valletta, with its honey-colored limestone buildings and rich history. One of my favorite ways to explore places like this is by taking a food tour!
The cooler temperatures are great for hiking along the dramatic coastlines or visiting the prehistoric temples. With fewer tourists, you’ll have a more intimate experience of Malta’s vibrant culture, from local festas to fresh seafood dining by the sea.
Athens, Greece
Athens is an absolute dream for both history enthusiasts and culture lovers looking to travel Europe in the fall! The scorching summer temperatures give way to cooler (but still warm) weather, ideal for exploring the city’s ancient wonders like the Acropolis and Parthenon. You can take your time admiring these iconic sites and wandering through charming neighborhoods like Plaka.
The softer autumn light casts a magical glow on the ancient marble, creating stunning photo opportunities that will take your breath away. Fall also brings a vibrant cultural calendar, with numerous festivals and events showcasing Greek arts and traditions, like Art Athina and the Athens International Film Festival.
Pro Tip: I highly recommend taking a cruise to see the different Greek islands in this area! This is a great way to see the sights without having to worry about transportation or packing and re-packing for each destination.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik, with its stunning Old Town area and Adriatic coastline, takes on a truly serene beauty in the fall. As summer crowds thin out, you can leisurely walk the city walls and explore the limestone-paved streets without the usual throngs of tourists. (Game of Thrones fans, check out this walking tour of the Dubrovnik filming locations!)
The mild autumn weather is perfect for taking boat trips to nearby islands or enjoying outdoor cafes along the Stradun (or Placa). With fewer visitors, you’ll have a more authentic experience of Dubrovnik’s rich culture and history, from quiet moments in ancient churches to relaxed dinners featuring fresh Dalmatian cuisine.
Porto, Portugal
Porto, the charming coastal city in northern Portugal, is another delightful destination to enjoy Europe in the fall. The milder weather makes it easier to wander for hours through the narrow streets of the Ribeira district or cross the iconic Dom Luís Bridge.
Fall coincides with the grape harvest in the Douro Valley, where you can experience Portugal’s famous wine culture at the perfect time. With the summer crowds gone, you can enjoy more relaxed visits to Porto’s beautiful azulejo-covered churches and grand port wine cellars, savoring the city’s rich history and flavors at a laid-back pace.
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Are You Ready to Spend This Fall in Europe?
As these incredible destinations show, Europe in the fall is an excellent time to experience popular spots that are typically overwhelmed with tourists. With milder weather, fewer crowds, and the added beauty of autumn colors, your European adventure is sure to be unforgettable!
Whether you’re drawn to Budapest’s thermal baths, Hamburg’s maritime flair, Lake Como’s elegant tranquility, Porto’s wine culture, or Athens’ ancient wonders, fall in Europe promises a truly magical experience. So, if you’re ready to spend this autumn in Europe, then start searching for flight deals now!
What’s your favorite European destination in the fall? Let me know in the comments below!
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