The Best Places To Holiday In Autumn
Brat summer is over – the London rain has never made it so obvious. But while we transition into shorter days, redder leaves and pumpkin-flavoured lattes, it’s also a great time to plan a trip. In Europe, there’s Oktoberfest brewing on the horizon, in Asia, the monsoon is transitioning into dryer months which makes for a great time for an outdoorsy adventure and closer to home, in Ireland, the birthplace of Halloween, things are about to get quite spooky. Here’s where to go in Autumn if you’re looking for a little escape this season:
Europe
Lake District, UK
As the season turns, the Lake District’s lush landscapes transform with a palette of golds, reds, and oranges, making it an ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The crisp, cool air is perfect for hiking and walking, with popular routes like the Catbells and Helvellyn offering stunning views of the fall foliage reflected in the lakes.
Travel tip: The charming villages, such as Grasmere and Ambleside, are cosy and welcoming, with local pubs, tearooms and countryside hotels perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.
Dublin, Ireland
Celebrating Halloween in Dublin is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and modern-day festivities. As the birthplace of Samhain, the Celtic festival that inspired Halloween, Dublin takes this holiday seriously. The city comes alive with ghost tours, haunted houses, and themed events, all set against the backdrop of its historic streets and spooky landmarks. Whether you’re into traditional ghost stories or modern parties, Dublin’s Halloween scene offers an unforgettable experience.
Travel tip: From the Samhain Festival, which honours the origins of the holiday with live performances, storytelling, and fire shows, to Halloween-themed pub crawls and costumed street parties, there’s something for everyone.
Bavaria, Germany
When you think of Germany in the autumn, two things might come to mind: Oktoberfest and the Alps. Bavaria, with its stunning landscapes and charming towns like Füssen, is a quintessential autumn destination. The forests in the region turn vibrant shades of red and orange, making it ideal for hiking and scenic drives. If you’re there in early October, Germany’s iconic beer festival Oktoberfest adds extra excitement.
Travel tip: Travel to the Neuschwanstein Castle, which is even more picturesque in autumn and go early to beat the tourist crowds.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Nestled in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a postcard-perfect destination at any time of year, but there’s something extra special about it in autumn. The vibrant fall foliage reflects in the lake’s crystal-clear waters, while the medieval Bled Castle perches dramatically on a hill. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat and outdoor activities like rowing or hiking.
Travel tip: Take the hike up to Ojstrica viewpoint for jaw-dropping views of Lake Bled surrounded by autumn colours—Instagram-worthy for sure.
Tuscany, Italy
Autumn in Tuscany is a feast for the senses. The vineyards turn golden, the olive harvest begins, and there’s a wonderful crispness in the air. Spend your days driving through the rolling hills, visiting small villages like San Gimignano, and indulging in hearty Italian food. This is also the time for truffle festivals, so if you’re a foodie, you’ll be in heaven.
Travel tip: Time your visit with one of the region’s festivals, like the Sagra del Tordo in Montalcino, to enjoy plenty of local wine, and witness parades and autumn festivities.
Istanbul, Turkey
Autumn is the perfect time to visit Istanbul, when the weather is still mild but the summer heat and crowds have eased. A city that’s spread across two continents – Europe and Asia, Istanbul is great if you’re looking to explore great food, fashion and some historic culture. Stroll through the streets of Sultanahmet to admire the city’s stunning mosques and palaces, like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, without the bustling throngs of tourists. The city’s parks, like Gulhane Park, come alive with autumn colours, offering a peaceful escape from the lively bazaars and cafés. Plus, you can enjoy a scenic cruise on the Bosphorus while soaking up the warm, golden hues of the cityscape.
Travel tip: Be sure to explore the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar, where you can sample seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and sip Turkish tea as you shop for unique souvenirs.
Africa
Okavango Delta, Botswana
For an adventurous autumn escape, Botswana offers an unforgettable experience. As autumn coincides with the dry season in southern Africa, this is the ideal time for wildlife enthusiasts to visit. The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is teeming with wildlife during this period and water levels are at their highest. From majestic elephants to stealthy leopards, a safari here is nothing short of spectacular. Beyond safaris, Botswana’s vast landscapes like the Kalahari Desert and Makgadikgadi Salt Pans offer great opportunities for sightseeing.
Travel tip: Book a mokoro (traditional canoe) safari to glide through the delta’s waterways, to really get up close to wildlife.
Asia
Shillong, India
Called the ‘Scotland of the East’, Shillong is particularly captivating during autumn, thanks to its stunning cherry blossom season. From late October to early November, the city and its surrounding areas burst into a vibrant display of pink and white as cherry trees come into full bloom. This short but spectacular season transforms Shillong into a picturesque haven, with the cherry blossoms adding a special charm to the already lush and rolling landscape. Autumn is a great time to explore Shillong’s natural beauty, from the scenic views at Elephant Falls to the tranquil waters of Umiam Lake.
Travel tip: The Police Bazaar and Ward’s Lake are popular spots to enjoy the blossoms, while the Lady Hydari Park offers beautiful vistas of the floral spectacle. ugh the season winds down, Ibiza’s iconic clubs throw legendary events to end the summer on a high note.
Koh Samui, Thailand
Koh Samui, Thailand’s tropical island gem, is a perfect autumn getaway. With the rainy season subsiding by October, the island offers a quieter, more peaceful experience, with fewer tourists and lush landscapes. Spend your days lounging on palm-fringed beaches like Chaweng and Lamai, or explore the island’s stunning waterfalls and temples. The island’s vibrant nightlife doesn’t disappoint, while the wellness scene—complete with luxurious spas and yoga retreats—provides the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
Travel tip: Autumn is ideal for visiting the nearby Ang Thong National Marine Park, where you can kayak, snorkel, and hike, all while enjoying the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters.