Autumn Holidays Around The World

The days are getting shorter, the air crisper, and the leaves on the trees beginning to change colour: Autumn is upon us, and there is no better time for a getaway.

For most destinations, the peak tourist season has ended, meaning fewer crowds and some great value deals on flights and hotels. However, for us, the best part of travelling at this time of year is those trademark Autumnal hues, which transform riot of red, orange and golden brown.

From the tree-lined streets of some of Europe's most picturesque cities to ancient woodland and a breathtaking Alpine valley, here are our top 10 Autumn holidays around the world. Which one will you choose?

Vancouver, Canada

Consistently ranked as one of the best cities on the planet to live in, Vancouver, (Canada's third most populous city) offers the excitement and convenience of urban living with the picturesque beauty and freedom of nature.

Sandwiched between a large saltwater bay, soaring mountain peaks, and vast forests, and home to a plethora of parks and green spaces, Vancouver has no shortage of amazing natural scenery and there is no better time to visit than between late September and November when the warm Autumnal hues make the city even more beautiful!

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Dutch capital is a picturesque city any time of year, though during Autumn when its tree-lined canals, scenic parks, and postcard-like cobbled streets and squares, are awash with shades of crimson and golden brown, it is particularly stunning.

Peruse world-class museums and galleries; stroll or cycle along the myriad canals; enjoy some traditional Dutch delicacies at a canal-side cafe or bakery or some local beer at one of the many charming pubs: there is no better time of year to discover the unique charm of this wonderful city!

Japan

Though many will choose to visit Japan during springtime, to catch a glimpse of its world-famous cherry blossom, Autumn is also a fantastic time to discover 'The Land of the Rising Sun'.

When it comes to natural beauty, few places on earth rival Japan during the penultimate season, when its rural forests, city parks, and temple gardens are awash with vivid Autumnal hues. The ancient city of Kyoto, or the forested slopes of Mount Fuji, are particularly popular destinations at this time of year, but no matter which part of the country you choose, (even amongst the skyscrapers of metropolises such as Tokyo or Osaka) you will be sure to encounter something special. Read more about the land of the rising sun on our Visit Japan page.

The New Forest, United Kingdom

One of the UK's most beautiful national parks the New Forest encompasses over 500 square kilometres of southern England.

Comprised of ancient woodland, heathland and picturesque coastline, this tranquil natural haven is home to all manner of wildlife, including, five species of deer and the eponymous wild pony, and during Autumn its diverse flora comes alive in a spectacular array of kaleidoscopic hues.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

One of Europe's best under the radar cities and one of its most eco-friendly, Slovenia's capital boasts the highest percentage of pedestrianised streets of any of the continent’s major cities, along with an array of beautiful architecture, a thriving arts and cultural scene, excellent food and drink, and spectacular vistas of the Southern Alps. Visit during Autumn for crisp, clear, weather, and postcard-like scenes at every turn, with crimson-leaved trees lining cobbled medieval streets!

Bruges, Belgium

With an ensemble of winding cobbled streets and pretty canals, along with some of the best-preserved medieval architecture on the continent, Bruges is a uniquely captivating city, rich in history and fairytale charm.

Though popular during summer, Bruges truly comes into its own during the latter part of the year, when the crisp temperatures enhance the cosy charm of its cafes and the delicious taste of hot local waffles, whilst the russet tones of the trees that line its streets and waterways, accentuate its postcard-like beauty.

New England, USA

Comprising the Northeastern region of the US, namely, the states of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, New England is renowned for its colonial history, warm hospitality, and extraordinary natural beauty.

The world-famous Autumn foliage is truly breathtaking and reason enough to visit alone, and there is no better time to explore the region's many forested peaks and national parks. Alternatively head to Boston (the largest city in the region) to discover historic landmarks, peruse a farmers market, or enjoy one of the many harvest events, fairs and festivals.

Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland

If it's a nature-filled Autumn getaway that you're after, then Lauterbrunnen, a postcard-perfect village set within an awe-inspiring valley in the heart of the Swiss alps, is the place to go!

Along with the wonderful Autumnal foliage (which is nothing short of spectacular), the area is home to all manner of picturesque sights, most notably an incredible 72 waterfalls that cascade down the vertical valley slopes from heights of up to 400m!

Bavaria, Germany

For those who love soaring Alpine peaks, vast forests, lakes, medieval castles, and of course, beer, then look no further than the southeastern German state of Bavaria, a region famed for its food, drink, and spectacular natural scenery.

Thanks to the colourful foliage, Autumn is a great time to explore the storybook landscapes of its rural areas, or, alternatively, head to the neighbouring cities of Nuremberg and Munich to discover a wealth of historic landmarks, traditional taverns, eateries, and a litany of fairs and festivals (including Munich's world-famous Oktoberfest).

London, UK

London is particularly captivating during Autumn when kaleidoscopic colours transform its maze-like streets into an endless collection of instagrammable scenes!

If the weather is nice, stroll along the banks of the Thames or through one of the royal parks; take the train to Kew Gardens to discover its wonderful array of flora, or to Richmond park and watch herds of deer graze among the golden-hued woodland. If it rains, visit one of the many amazing museums; head to the West End for a spot of shopping; take in a musical, or perhaps, enjoy a pint in a cozy London pub! See our other favourite things to do on our Visit London page.