This list of the best places to visit in the fall provides a range of excellent options for autumn getaways. From family-friendly vacations to adventurous expeditions, from culinary tours to sightseeing adventures, these destinations offer picturesque landscapes and seasonal delights, allowing visitors to experience the magic of autumn.
1. List of the best places to visit in the fall in Asia
Asia boasts stunning destinations in autumn with mild weather, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse activities.
1.1. Kyoto, Japan
Japan stands out as one of the best countries to visit in Asia. A visit to Japan during autumn would not be complete without Kyoto. To fully immerse yourself in Kyoto's autumn charm, don’t miss out on its renowned religious sites such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Bishamon-do Temple, Tofukuji Temple, and Kifune Shrine. Additionally, you can explore landmarks like Nijo Castle, Ninomaru Garden, Kyoto Botanical Gardens, and The Philosopher’s Path for tranquil strolls. Another essential stop is Eikando Zenrinji, where you can marvel at 3,000 Japanese maple trees ablaze with red and yellow hues.
1.2. Seoul, South Korea
For those seeking the best places to visit in Asia in autumn, Seoul should not be overlooked. Seoul offers a plethora of exciting activities for your Asia tours, from donning hanbok and strolling under the fall foliage at Gyeongbokgung Palace or Changdeokgung Palace to admiring panoramic city views from Namsan Seoul Tower. Moreover, visitors can explore the colorful lanterns along the Cheonggyecheon Stream, go ziplining at Nami Island - one of the best places to admire the fall foliage in Seoul, hike scenic trails at Bukhansan National Park, or unwind at Seoul Forest Park amidst serene surroundings.
1.3. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is not only a highlight of Vietnam travel but also among the best places to visit in the fall in the world. The streets here are adorned with golden foliage, accompanied by cool breezes and gentle rains for a sense of tranquility. On your Southeast Asia travel, you cannot miss a walk on Hoang Dieu Street and Phan Dinh Phung Street to see the leaves dancing in the wind and savor the fragrant aroma of milkwood pine flowers. You can also visit Hoan Kiem Lake or the Old Quarter to immerse yourself in the city's charming vibe while indulging in seasonal delicacies like ripe persimmons.
Beyond its renowned landmarks, Hanoi also offers captivating venues for entertainment. A visit to VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park or VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium promises all sorts of entertaining activities suitable for all ages.
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Apart from Hanoi, Vietnam boasts many other enchanting autumn destinations like Phu Quoc, Da Lat, and Ha Giang, all offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse activities.
1.4. Zhangjiajie, China
With its pleasant weather, autumn is an ideal time to explore Zhangjiajie. Asia travel enthusiasts who come to Zhangjiajie in autumn can marvel at the mesmerizing beauty of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, with its foliage blanketing the mountains amidst the clouds and mist. Some must-try experiences are hiking through the Avatar Mountains or exploring Tianzi Mountain by cable car, which reveals stunning vistas illuminated by warm sunlight. Adventurous souls can cross the bridge over Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon, where a paradise-like landscape awaits with pristine waters and lush vegetation.
1.5. Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Kathmandu emerges as a top fall destination for a wonderful Asia travel itinerary, boasting a rich heritage and awe-inspiring natural wonders. In Kathmandu, which is among the best places to visit in the fall, you can explore iconic landmarks like Swayambhunath Temple, Pashupatinath Temple, and Boudhanath Stupa. Or, you can venture to the UNESCO-listed Durbar Square for a glimpse into the local traditions. Nature enthusiasts can trek to Pikey Peak, soak in the mesmerizing autumn scenery of Mount Everest, or take a cable car ride to Chandra Giri Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
1.6. Ladakh, India
Ladakh is one of the cheap Asia travel destinations in India. In this extraordinary journey through one of the great places to visit in the fall, travelers can admire spectacular scenery, from jagged peaks to turquoise rivers. To witness these breathtaking landscapes, travelers should explore rivers like the Shyok River or the Indus River and high-altitude lakes like Tso Moriri Lake and Pangong Lake. For those seeking to explore Ladakh's diverse flora and fauna, a visit to Nubra Valley, nestled between towering peaks, offers an enchanting secret garden of vibrant foliage reminiscent of a fairytale world.
1.7. Bhutan
Among the various countries in Asia, Bhutan is worth visiting in the fall. Traveling to Bhutan in the fall, one cannot miss out on events like Jambay Lhakhang Drup, a major festival known for ritualistic fire dancing, and Thimphu Tshechu, a colorful monk festival. Other prominent attractions include the Tiger’s Nest Monastery hanging at the edge of a cliff, Punakha Dzong - the most spectacular Bhutanese fortress, Mount Jomolhari - the highest peak in Bhutan, and the golden rice fields of Samtse and Sarpang. Bhutan promises a diverse fall vacation experience, setting it apart from other Asia destinations.
>>> Discover: Cheapest countries to travel in Asia: Top 23 budget-friendly options
2. What are the best places to visit in the fall in Europe?
For Europe, the following list of the great places to visit in the fall will surely make your autumn holiday unforgettable.
2.1. Paris, France
Fall is the best time to visit Paris as the summer crowds disperse. Iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Versailles Palace await exploration. Visitors can enjoy the changing colors of fall with leisurely walks in Luxembourg Gardens, or venture beyond Versailles Palace to explore its forested areas on day hikes. Moreover, Paris hosts numerous autumnal wine fairs, offering opportunities to savor premium French wines. Other experiences include enjoying a hot drink at a park café or cycling along leafy avenues to relish peaceful moments amidst the autumn scenery.
2.2. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is equally captivating in the fall, with rolling hills adorned in golden hues and sunny weather, perfect for sightseeing around. Road tripping through Val d’Orcia reveals picturesque hilltop villages, historical towns, and vineyards dotting the landscape. Visitors can also relax at renowned hot springs like Chianciano, Bagno Vignoni, or Saturnia. Tuscany hosts several fall festivals and markets celebrating the local cuisine and wine, including Festa d’Autunno, Festa dell’Uva, Fiera del Tartufo Bianco, and Toscana Gustando, providing opportunities to savor the region's delights.
2.3. Munich, Germany
Munich is a must-visit among the best places to visit in the fall, offering a cozy atmosphere and spectacular scenery. Visitors should experience a stroll or bike ride through parks like Nymphenburg Palace Park and Olympic Park to admire vibrant golden canopies. Those seeking lively festivities cannot miss out on the Kirchweihdult, a major folk festival offering local products, or the world-famous Oktoberfest, a 16-day celebration of beer and Bavarian culture. Other experiences include indulging in saunas, exploring local markets like Viktualienmarkt and Elisabethmarkt, and visiting museums.
2.4. Prague, Czech Republic
On the list of the best places to travel in the fall, Prague entices visitors with its golden autumn colors. Unforgettable experiences include visiting Charles Bridge at sunrise for picturesque views and strolling through Letna Park amidst golden foliage. Foraging for fungi in forests also offers unique outdoor adventures. Other highlights include exploring Stromovka Park to admire the autumn colors and visiting Old Town Square to marvel at the spires of Tyn Church. History lovers can explore Břevnov Monastery, museums, and galleries, which all showcase Prague's cultural heritage.
2.5. Perthshire, Scotland
Perthshire holds a significant place in the list of the best places to visit in the fall. Nature lovers cannot miss a visit to Killiecrankie - a beautiful river gorge, or a road trip to Queen’s View to take in the stunning view of Loch Tummel. Adventurers can enjoy hiking at The Hermitage, one of the most popular woodland areas to see the autumn colors. Additionally, hiking to Ben Chonzie - among the most well-known mountains, walking to the Falls of Bruar through a beautiful moss-covered forest, or visiting the charming town of Pitlochry will also make the journey more memorable.
2.6. Douro Valley, Portugal
Douro Valley stands out with stunning landscapes of terraced vineyards and rolling hills, making it worth visiting during your autumn holiday. For those interested in learning more about wine, visiting the Museu do Douro museum or taking a tour of one of the many centuries-old wineries is a must. For those interested in picturesque villages and vineyards, road trips to Peso da Régua as well as scenic boat cruises along the Douro River, offer unforgettable experiences. Douro Valley also offers some viewpoints to enjoy panoramic vineyard and river views such as the São Leonardo da Galafura viewpoint.
2.7. Budapest, Hungary
The autumn months are a perfect time to explore Budapest, one of the great places to visit in the fall. Don’t miss out on taking a walk on the fabulous Margaret Island - where you can take in the magnificent views of Budapest, and visit Lumina Park to wander among special light installations. Other unique experiences include taking a Danube sightseeing boat ride, visiting Budapest’s Jewish Quarter with many cultural attractions, and visiting the Museum of Fine Arts. Additionally, you can visit the Pesti Vigadó building and the Buda Castle district to learn more about Hungarian culture.
3. The 5 best places to visit in the fall in the Americas
The Americas also offers some of the best places to visit during fall with beautiful natural landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences.
3.1. New England, USA
New England is a sought-after destination for fall getaways. One of the most scenic places here is Stowe, which boasts stunning fall foliage and a wide range of outdoor activities, from biking and zip-lining to strolling through downtown. Another must-try activity is taking a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, which winds through the White Mountain National Forest, offering colorful forests and the refreshing scent of pine. Lenox - a picturesque rural region in the mountains of Massachusetts, and Camden - a charming town in Maine, are also top destinations.
3.2. Quebec City, Canada
Canada is one of the best countries to visit in September, with Quebec City standing out among the best places to visit in Canada in the fall. To experience the tranquil beauty of autumn, visitors can take a stroll around the charming streets of Old Québec and admire the vibrant fall foliage at Canyon Sainte-Anne. Food lovers can indulge in the abundance of culinary delights and explore the wine route to sample quality local drinks. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy various activities including hiking, horseback riding, mountain climbing, and picking apples.
3.3. Mendoza, Argentina
In Mendoza, autumn brings excellent weather and clear skies. Visitors can explore groves, visit wineries, taste the local cuisine, and admire impressive attractions like the dunes of the Altos Limpios, the Telteca Forest, and the Divisadero Largo Nature Reserve. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as canoeing, rafting, fishing, and sailing on rivers like the Mendoza River, Atuel River, and Agua del Toro Reservoir. Additionally, there are theaters, craft markets, art exhibitions, concerts, and science fairs to make the trips more enjoyable for travelers.
3.4. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
As one of the best places to visit in the fall, Cabo San Lucas offers a wide array of activities. The warm temperatures are perfect for visitors to snorkel to catch sight of whales and baby sea turtles. History and culture buffs should not miss the opportunity to immerse themselves in the nationwide observation of Mexico’s independence with music and fireworks. There is also Dia de los Muertos, widely known as the Day of the Dead - a family holiday in Mexico. For music and film lovers, the Los Cabos International Film Festival and various daily jazz sessions offer exciting experiences.
3.5. Galapagos Islands, Ecuador
Traveling to the Galapagos Islands during the fall is amazing, with many unique nature exploration opportunities such as snorkeling to admire coral reefs, fish, sea turtles, and more. Another experience is cruising to Fernandina Island to observe dolphins and whales. Autumn in Galapagos also brings a chance to swim and play with sea lions, encounter giant Galapagos tortoises laying eggs, spot penguins, and watch seabirds. Last but not least, visiting the Galapagos Islands in the fall offers a high chance to dive with whales and sharks, an experience like no other in your lifetime.
4. The best places to visit in the fall in Oceania with family
If you are looking for autumn getaways in Oceania, don't overlook the following two great places to visit in the fall, which both promise breathtaking natural scenery and challenging outdoor activities.
4.1. Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown offers a perfect autumn getaway with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant sunshine. Adventurers should not miss out on the Queenstown Trail, which provides easy access to iconic Queenstown vistas such as Queenstown Bay or Lake Hayes. Autumn is also a fantastic time to witness the buzz of grape harvesting, enjoy lunches at fine winery restaurants, or explore vineyards. A trip to Queenstown would not be complete without a visit to Arrowtown, renowned for its famous autumnal hues along with the Autumn Festival, which offers street parades, live music, and theater performances.
4.2. Blue Mountains, Australia
The Blue Mountains are one of the best places to visit in autumn in Australia. One of the best ways to experience autumn here is exploring nearby parks to admire the changing colors of the leaves. Some recommended spots include the Everglades Garden, Leura Mall, and Mount Wilson - a charming hamlet offering outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, apple picking, and wine tasting. Additionally, visitors can venture to Mt. Tomah Botanic Gardens for a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains, or Wentworth Falls for scenic walks. Furthermore, nearby villages offer a variety of cultural activities to enhance the trip.
>>> Explore: 12 of the best islands to visit in September for sun, fun and more
Whether you seek vibrant foliage, cozy retreats, or thrilling adventures, these best places to visit in the fall offer unforgettable experiences. So, embrace the crisp air, indulge in seasonal treats, and create lasting memories amidst their stunning landscapes.
