Top 10 Autumn Destinations in Europe

Exploring Europe in the fall offers a wealth of diverse experiences. Relax on sunny southern beaches, trek through forests adorned in autumn hues, or stroll through bustling cities without the summer crowds. The season also brings forth some of the continent’s finest flavors, with seasonal harvests available in markets and restaurants—from charming Italian eateries to upscale Nordic dining. In short, Europe in autumn is a delight. Here are some top destinations to visit this fall.

1. Seville, Spain

Ideal for a city getaway

Autumn? Not in Seville! In October, temperatures soar to levels many European cities envy in summer—averaging around 26°C (79°F). Fall is perfect for exploration: the intense heat has lessened, yet it remains warm enough for leisurely walks along the Guadalquivir River and evenings spent sampling tapas at outdoor cafes. There's plenty to see, starting with the stunning Real Alcázar, a royal palace complex featuring beautiful Mudéjar architecture and magnificent gardens. Don’t miss the world’s largest Gothic cathedral with its impressive bell tower, the beautifully tiled Casa de Pilatos, and various top-notch museums. Be sure to visit the Museo del Baile Flamenco to immerse yourself in this passionate dance and enjoy a live show.

When to visit at a glance: March to May and October – warm and pleasant; June to September – scorching heat; November to February – mild temperatures.

2. Dodecanese, Greece

Ideal for spontaneous island-hopping

Early autumn is fantastic in the Dodecanese: it offers pleasant weather, lower prices, warm seas, and fewer crowds, with many facilities still open before winter closures begin in November. This diverse group of islands is ideal for island-hopping, thanks to excellent ferry connections (including links to nearby Türkiye) and small boats that service lesser-known islands, allowing you to explore charming towns, beaches, historical sites, and hidden gems. While Rhodes is the largest, don't miss spectacular pebble-strewn Symi (easily reachable from Rhodes), eco-friendly Tilos, which focuses on renewable energy, the culturally rich Karpathos with its traditional hilltop village Olymbos, and the lesser-known Astypalea, known for its serene coves and scenic valleys.

Planning tip: Begin your journey in Rhodes, which has an airport. Alternatively, the ferry from Athens to Rhodes takes about 16–18 hours. From Rhodes, head north towards Patmos, the northernmost of the Dodecanese islands. Plan for at least a week, or two if possible.

When to visit at a glance: May to June and September to October – sunny and warm with services available; July to August – hot and crowded; November to April – cooler, with limited services and fewer ferry options.

3. Umbria, Italy

Ideal for seasonal delicacies

Autumn's bounty in Umbria is simply delightful. This serene neighbor to Tuscany shines during the season, making it an excellent choice for a culinary getaway. The rolling hills and historic towns like Orvieto, Amelia, and Narni glow in golden light and remain blissfully uncrowded. The region's tables are brimming with outstanding local produce: lentils, beans, mushrooms, chestnuts, and black truffles, as well as vibrant saffron and olio novello (fresh olive oil) from the harvest. Menus are filled with cacciagione (game) dishes, including cinghiale (wild boar) and fagiano (pheasant). With the grape harvest in full swing, it's an exciting time to explore the wine routes of the Strada del Sagrantino, visiting vineyards and medieval villages for tastings. Plus, in November, Umbria's capital, Perugia, hosts Eurochocolate, a celebration of all things chocolate, including the famous Baci hazelnut treat originating from the city.

Planning tip: For a charming countryside experience, consider staying at an agriturismo, which offers self-catering accommodations on working farms.

When to visit at a glance: April to June and September to October – pleasant weather with fewer tourists; July to August – hot and crowded; November to March – cool temperatures.

4. Montenegro

Ideal for hiking enthusiasts

Don’t put away your hiking boots just yet—thanks to its southern location, Montenegro's mountains remain stunning and accessible for trekking until November. And what mountains they are! The tallest peaks are found within the UNESCO-listed Durmitor National Park, featuring a range of dark, jagged summits (48 of which exceed 2000m/6065ft) surrounded by pine forests, verdant meadows, and sparkling glacial lakes, teeming with wildlife from birds to bears. Enjoy excellent trails amid the peaks and ancient forests of Biogradska Gora National Park. Coastal heights like mounts Orjen and Lovćen offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic—combine your hikes here with refreshing swims in the azure waters, which remain inviting and pleasantly uncrowded throughout October. A week of hiking could include summiting Rumija on the southern coast, exploring the Kučka Krajina range near the capital Podgorica, taking in the autumn foliage around Mt Bjelasica in Biogradska Gora, and diverse trekking in Durmitor, with the opportunity to reach Bobotov Kuk (2523m/8277ft), the highest peak in the country.

When to visit at a glance: April to June and September to October – warm and less crowded; July to August – hot and bustling; November to March – cold, with opportunities for skiing.

5. Copenhagen, Denmark

Ideal for unique dining experiences

Trendy Copenhagen stands at the forefront of both Scandinavian design and the New Nordic culinary movement—there's no place where food is more inventive, sustainable, or seasonal, whether in Michelin-starred restaurants or charming farm cafés. Embrace the autumn harvest while strolling through the vibrant gardens of Rosenborg Slot, admiring Viking artifacts at the Nationalmuseet, and enjoying remarkable art at nearby Louisiana. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delicious fare starting at Torvehallerne KBH, the city’s tantalizing food market, offering everything from organic porridge to delightful smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches). Be sure to book ahead for highly sought-after dining experiences like Kadeau. Then embark on a culinary walking tour to discover where locals enjoy their coffee and pastries, and explore Nørrebro, the city’s most diverse neighborhood, filled with trendy boutiques, craft beer bars, and hip cafés. Wrap up your day in Kødbyen, Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, to experience the local nightlife.

When to visit at a glance: April to May and October – quieter and cooler; June to September – sunny, vibrant, and busy; November to March – chilly (with Christmas markets operating through December).

6. Scottish Highlands

Ideal for wildlife and autumn scenery

Picture swirling mist, moorland aglow in the morning light, and perhaps the haunting roar of a stag seeking dominance—late-autumn mornings in the Scottish Highlands are truly enchanting. Visiting in the fall allows you to witness the red deer rut, where males clash with their impressive antlers for mating rights. Whether you choose to explore by 4WD or on foot, the experience enhances the already stunning lochs, glens, and moors. Although it may be chilly, the end of the tourist season offers a quieter time for sightseeing at places like Stirling, Eilean Donan Castle, Glen Coe, and Fort William. Warm yourself with a wee dram and savor fantastic seasonal dishes: Scottish oysters, lobster, and a bounty of pheasant, grouse, and other game.

Planning tip: Many attractions close during winter months. Some shutter at the end of September, but many—like Dunrobin Castle and Strathnaver Museum—remain open until the end of October. Always check before your visit.

When to visit at a glance: April to May – tranquil and blooming; June to August – warmest with long days and midges; September to November – vibrant fall colors and deer rut; December to March – cold with potential snow.

7. Malta

Perfect for a blend of island relaxation and city exploration

Tiny Malta boasts a delightful Mediterranean climate—it remains pleasantly warm in November while much of Europe cools down. With temperatures around 21°C (70°F) and waters retaining the last remnants of summer warmth, visiting the tranquil beaches of the sister isles, Gozo and Comino, is still a great option. You can relax in the mild weather while also indulging in some sightseeing, as Malta's compact size allows for a perfect balance. Discover the UNESCO-listed capital Valletta and the historic walled city of Mdina, known as the 'Silent City,' with its captivating churches, museums, and medieval streets. Explore the ancient underground burial site of the Hal Saflieni Hypogeum and the breathtaking clifftop prehistoric temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. Stroll along the Dingli Cliffs, take a boat ride to the Blue Grotto, and unwind on the sandy shores of Golden Bay. Wrap up your trip with a day at Comino’s Blue Lagoon, a stunning sapphire-hued sea pool that's bustling in summer but tranquil during the off-season.

When to visit at a glance: April to June and October to November – warm and uncrowded; July to September – hot, dry, and busy; December to March – cool.

8. Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Ideal for sunshine

Tenerife has long been a favorite for sun enthusiasts throughout the year, with average daytime temperatures reaching about 24°C (75°F) even in November. In fact, this is arguably the only spot in Europe where you can plan a beach getaway so late in the year. While the main tourist resorts are in the south, consider heading north to the charming town of Puerto de la Cruz or the beaches near Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago in the west. If you can tear yourself away from the beach, the weather is perfect for hiking. Towering at 3,718m (12,199ft), Mt Teide is Spain’s highest peak and the third-largest volcano in the world; reaching its snow-capped summit requires a challenging five-hour hike or a quick cable car ride. The island offers a diverse range of trails, including paths through the northwest pine forests, ridge walks in the Anaga Mountains, and traversing the stunning Masca Gorge, supported by excellent infrastructure for hikers with a reliable bus network and plenty of accommodations.

Tip for planning: Microclimates can vary greatly even within neighboring valleys. If the weather isn’t to your liking in one area, just move a few miles and you’re likely to find sunny skies.

When to visit at a glance: March to May – warm, blooming wildflowers; June to September – hot and sunny; October to November – warm and less crowded; December to February – mild with possible snow on Teide.

9. Latvia

Best for autumn hues

October offers a final opportunity to explore Latvia’s stunning natural landscapes in mild weather: days are still reasonably long, winter winds have yet to arrive, and the fall foliage is breathtaking. Visit Gauja National Park to admire medieval castles and misty waterways framed by vibrant yellow-gold trees; enjoy a variety of hiking trails ranging from short leaf-peeping walks to longer treks along the Gauja River. Alternatively, explore Ķemeri National Park with bog shoes, where autumn is prime for birdwatching. Both parks are a short trip from the capital, Rīga, which boasts a beautiful UNESCO-listed Old Town that’s worth visiting anytime. Don’t miss out on seasonal delights like mushrooms, berries, fish, and game at local eateries.

When to visit at a glance: April to June – warming up (cruise season is May to September); July to August – hot and busy; September to October – mild and peaceful; November to March – cold and snowy.

10. Burgundy, France 

Ideal for wine aficionados and cycling fans

In Burgundy, life revolves around red and white wines—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, to be exact. This esteemed wine region boasts a viticultural legacy that dates back to Roman times. Discover the picturesque hills of Burgundy during the vendange (grape harvest) season, which also provides perfect conditions for cycling the Le Tour de Bourgogne (Tour of Burgundy). This cycling route stretches approximately 800km (500 miles) along voies vertes (traffic-free paths), canal towpaths, and tranquil country roads, connecting must-see sights like Dijon’s medieval heart, the stunning Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices in Beaune, the historic Abbaye de Fontenay, and the castles of Ancy-le-Franc and Tanlay. If the entire route seems too long, opt for a shorter segment: perhaps the flat 240km (149-mile) stretch along the Canal de Bourgogne, or the 206km (128-mile) portion of the Canal du Nivernais between Auxerre and Decize. For a wine-focused experience, try the Voie des Vignes path between Beaune and Santenay (just 22km/14 miles), or simply meander through Burgundy’s vine-covered hills.

Best times to visit: April to May and October – cooler and less crowded; June to September – consistently warm; November to March – cold and damp.