10 Best Places to Go in Europe This Fall for a Last-Minute Escape
A European summer vacation might seem glamorous, but the reality often falls short. The heat, crowds, and high prices can turn even the most meticulously planned trips into an overwhelming experience. That’s why fall is an ideal time to plan a European escape. The weather cools down, the tourists thin out, and the landscapes take on a golden hue, making it the perfect season for last-minute adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of charming cities, tranquil beaches, or scenic mountain hikes, these ten destinations offer the best of Europe in the fall.
1. Rome, Italy
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Fall is the ideal time to visit Rome. As the summer crowds disperse, the Eternal City transforms into a quieter, more romantic version of itself. The pleasant weather, with temperatures hovering between 55°F and 70°F, makes sightseeing far more comfortable.
What to Do in Rome
- Visit the Galleria Borghese: A stunning art gallery set in the Villa Borghese gardens, home to works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael.
- Explore the Orto Botanico: Rome’s botanical garden offers a peaceful retreat with ancient trees and hidden fountains.
- Savor Local Delicacies: Grab a pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) from Antico Forno Roscioli, a historic bakery that’s a local favorite.
Travel Tip: Fall is also the season for La Vendemmia, Rome’s wine harvest festival. Sip on local wines while enjoying the autumn breeze in one of the city’s many piazzas.
2. Madeira, Portugal
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Madeira is a subtropical paradise, often overlooked by travelers who flock to mainland Portugal. In the fall, the island’s lush landscapes are at their best, rejuvenated after the summer heat. With temperatures ranging between 66°F and 79°F, Madeira is perfect for outdoor activities.
What to Do in Madeira
- Hike the Levada Trails: These irrigation channels offer some of the best hiking routes through the island’s UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest.
- Explore by Bike or Kayak: Fall is ideal for mountain biking, surfing, and kayaking around Madeira’s rugged coastlines.
- Attend the Madeira Nature Festival: In early October, the festival celebrates outdoor adventure, with activities ranging from paragliding to trail running.
Travel Tip: Don’t forget your hiking boots. Madeira’s levada trails are unique and provide stunning views of waterfalls, forests, and cliffs.
3. Sardinia, Italy
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
While Sardinia is scorching in the summer, fall provides a cooler, more comfortable climate for exploring this Mediterranean gem. With temperatures lingering around 60°F to 75°F, it’s the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and wine tasting.
What to Do in Sardinia
- Biking and Boating: Enjoy the island’s stunning coastlines and interior hills through active adventures.
- Autunno in Barbagia: This fall festival runs from September to mid-December, celebrating Sardinian culture with food, wine, and traditional crafts.
- Visit Nuraghe Sites: Sardinia is home to over 7,000 ancient nuraghi (stone structures), which provide a glimpse into the island’s prehistoric past.
Travel Tip: The clear waters surrounding Sardinia remain warm enough for swimming well into October, so bring your swimsuit!
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Fall in Copenhagen is synonymous with hygge, the Danish concept of coziness and contentment. As the leaves turn and the air cools, Copenhagen’s coffee shops, art galleries, and historic streets become even more inviting. The fall season also ushers in a fresh wave of seasonal produce, with restaurants offering new menus that highlight local ingredients.
What to Do in Copenhagen
- Stroll Through Tivoli Gardens: This historic amusement park transforms into a Halloween wonderland in October, complete with spooky decorations and seasonal treats.
- Explore Jægersborggade: This trendy street is home to some of Copenhagen’s best independent galleries, vintage shops, and organic cafes.
- Visit Torvehallerne: The city’s premier food market is packed with seasonal produce, seafood, and Danish pastries.
Travel Tip: Rent a bike! Copenhagen is a cycling city, and fall is the perfect time to cruise through its scenic streets.
5. Ibiza, Spain
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Ibiza may be famous for its summer party scene, but fall reveals a more tranquil, picturesque side of the island. The weather cools, but it’s still warm enough for beach days, with temperatures in the mid-70s.
What to Do in Ibiza
- Sunset at Sa Figuera Borda: A breathtaking cliffside viewpoint, ideal for watching the sun dip into the Mediterranean.
- Visit Ses Salines Natural Park: This peaceful park offers rugged landscapes, serene beaches, and wildlife-spotting opportunities.
- Attend a Closing Party: As the summer season ends, Ibiza’s iconic clubs host unforgettable “closing parties.”
Travel Tip: For a quieter experience, head to the northern part of the island, where secluded beaches and peaceful villages await.
6. The Scottish Highlands, Scotland
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Few places are as spectacular in the fall as the Scottish Highlands. The landscape comes alive with brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow, and the cooler temperatures make hiking and exploring much more enjoyable.
What to Do in the Scottish Highlands
- Hike in Glencoe: One of Scotland’s most famous valleys, Glencoe is particularly stunning in the fall, with its mist-covered mountains and autumn foliage.
- Explore Loch Ness: Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the legendary Nessie or just want to enjoy the scenic surroundings, Loch Ness is a must-visit.
- Drive the North Coast 500: This iconic route takes you through some of the Highlands’ most remote and beautiful landscapes.
Travel Tip: Fall is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the notorious Scottish midges (biting insects), which disappear as the weather cools.
7. Norway
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Norway in the fall offers the best of both worlds: cooler temperatures and the chance to see the Northern Lights without the frigid winter conditions. Fall is also the perfect time to experience Norway’s vibrant autumn foliage.
What to Do in Norway
- Ride the Flåm Railway: This scenic train ride offers breathtaking views of Norway’s fjords and fall colors.
- Visit Bergen: Known for its colorful wooden houses and surrounding mountains, Bergen is a picturesque autumn destination.
- Northern Lights in Tromsø: Fall nights in Northern Norway are long and clear, offering great opportunities to see the aurora borealis.
Travel Tip: Early fall is a good time to visit the Southern fjords, where you can still enjoy mild weather before the snow sets in.
8. South Tyrol, Italy
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Nestled in the Italian Alps, South Tyrol is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike. The fall season is perfect for hiking, wine tasting, and relaxing in one of the region’s many luxury spas.
What to Do in South Tyrol
- Hike in the Dolomites: The region’s iconic mountains glow in shades of pink and orange during the fall, creating a magical backdrop for outdoor activities.
- Attend the Törggelen Festival: A traditional South Tyrolean event celebrating the new wine season, with wine tastings, chestnuts, and local delicacies.
- Visit Merano: This spa town is famous for its wellness resorts, perfect for a rejuvenating fall getaway.
Travel Tip: For a truly unique experience, time your visit to catch the “Enrosadira,” a natural phenomenon where the peaks of the Dolomites glow pink and red at sunset.
9. The French Riviera, France
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is a classic summer destination, but it shines just as brightly in the fall. The crowds have thinned, and the weather is still warm enough for outdoor activities, with temperatures averaging between 65°F and 75°F.
What to Do in the French Riviera
- Explore Saint-Tropez: Visit this glamorous town in the fall for quieter beaches and fewer crowds. Don’t miss Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez, an annual sailing regatta held in late September and early October.
- Visit Nice: The capital of the French Riviera, Nice is home to beautiful beaches, a charming old town, and world-class museums.
- Wine Tasting in Provence: Just a short drive from the Riviera, Provence is home to some of France’s best wineries.
Travel Tip: Fall is truffle season in Provence, so don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in truffle dishes at local restaurants.
10. Greece
Best places to visit in Europe this fall
Greece may be synonymous with summer vacations, but fall offers a more peaceful, budget-friendly way to experience the country’s stunning islands and ancient sites. The weather remains warm through October, with plenty of sunshine and fewer tourists.
What to Do in Greece
- Explore Paros and Naxos: These neighboring islands are perfect for a fall escape. Paros offers charming towns, beautiful beaches, and historical sites, while Naxos is a paradise for food lovers and hikers.
- Visit Athens: The cooler fall weather makes it the perfect time to explore the Acropolis and other ancient ruins without the intense summer heat.
- Island Hopping: The fall season offers affordable ferry tickets, making it easy to hop between islands like Mykonos, Santorini, and Antiparos.
Travel Tip: Many beach resorts in Greece offer lower rates in the fall, so you can enjoy a luxurious vacation without the summer price tag.
