5 Best Destinations To Travel To This Fall

As summer slips away and the wind of fall starts to settle in, the world turns into a canvas of warm hues and cozy atmospheres. Fall is the perfect time to explore places that come alive with the unique seasonal charm fall brings, from stunning foliage and harvest festivals to cozy weather. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes, dive into new cultural experiences, or just go on a serene escape from daily life, we’ve curated a list of the 5 best places to visit this fall. If you, like us, are passionate about experiencing the beauty of autumn, and want to experience it at its fullest, pack your bags for sweater weather, and discover with us some of the most enchanting destinations you can travel to this fall.

1. New England, USA

New England is a quintessential fall destination, renowned for its spectacular foliage, historic charm, and crisp autumn air. Fall in New England offers a treasure trove of activities and experiences that capture the essence of the season. If you make the trip, be sure to include the following activities in your plans:

• Seek Fall Foliage: Visit picture-perfect overlooks and parks to experience panoramic views of the autumn landscape and witness the fall foliage for which New England is famous. Drive along scenic routes like the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire or the Mohawk Trail in Massachusetts. 

• Wander through Scenic Small Towns: Immerse yourself in the fall spirit by exploring the picturesque towns New England has to offer. Walk the quaint streets, admire the historic architecture, and visit local shops that are particularly charming in the fall. Enjoy local festivals, farmers' markets, and cozy cafes in cities such as Woodstock, Vermont; Newport, Rhode Island; and Camden, Maine.

• Visit Harvest Festivals and Go Apple Picking: Stop by harvest festivals and fairs that celebrate the season’s bounty. These festivals often feature local produce, crafts, live music, and fun activities. Check out the Big E Fair in West Springfield, Massachusetts, or the Stow Pumpkin Festival in Stow, Massachusetts. Visit orchards to take advantage of the apple harvest and enjoy apple picking. Many orchards also offer hayrides, corn mazes, and fresh cider.

• Experience a Haunted Tour: With fall comes the spooky season. Embrace this time of year by exploring some of the many haunted tours and ghost story rides in New England. Discover numerous haunted locations and eerie tales, especially in Salem, Massachusetts, known for its witch trials and spooky history. 

• Take a Scenic Train Ride: Prefer a leisurely experience? Enjoy a scenic train ride through New England’s fall landscape. The Conway Scenic Railroad in New Hampshire and the Essex Steam Train in Connecticut offer picturesque journeys to marvel at the beautiful autumn foliage. Choose from various themed rides and enjoy the comfort of vintage rail cars.

• Explore Coastal Attractions: Who says beaches are only enjoyable in summer? Visit New England’s coastal towns and appreciate the beauty of fall by the sea. Places like Kennebunkport, Maine, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts, offer charming views and a quieter atmosphere compared to summer. Stroll along the beaches, savor fresh seafood, and explore local shops and galleries.

2. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto's autumn season is a mesmerizing blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, with the city's ancient temples and traditional gardens set against a backdrop of fiery red maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees. From exploring historic sites and gardens to savoring traditional foods and enjoying scenic walks, you can experience fall at its fullest. Here’s a guide to making the most of your autumn visit to Kyoto.

• Explore the Temples and Shrines: Kyoto is renowned for its wide array of temples and shrines, which are particularly breathtaking in the fall. Be sure to visit Kiyomizu-dera, famous for its wooden stage that juts out over the hillside, offering spectacular views. Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) is another must-see, with its golden exterior and beautiful garden looking even more enchanting amid autumn hues. Finally, don’t miss Tofuku-ji, renowned for its exceptional autumn foliage, especially in the Tsutenkyo Bridge area, where vibrant red maple leaves create a unique visual experience. Be sure to book a guide that will take you thorough the amazing history behind these temples.

• Tea Time: Visit traditional tea houses to enjoy a cup of matcha tea and seasonal sweets while surrounded by beautiful fall scenery. Notable tea houses include those around Yasaka Shrine and Kiyomizu Sannenzaka. Also make a stop just outside Kyoto, in Uji, famous for its high-quality matcha.

• Walk Through Kyoto's Historic Streets: Wander through the historic Gion district, known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and teahouses. Experience the fall season with the ambiance of geishas strolling through streets adorned with autumn colors. Additionally, explore Nishiki Market to sample autumn delicacies such as roasted sweet potatoes (satsumaimo), matsutake mushrooms, chestnut snacks, seasonal sushi, and sweet red bean soup (zenzai).

3. Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria in the fall offers a rich tapestry of activities and experiences, from exploring fairy-tale castles and scenic drives to enjoying local festivals such as the famous Oktoberfest and savoring delightful autumn cuisine. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, Bavaria has something to offer every traveler during this enchanting season. Here’s a guide to some of the best activities and attractions in Bavaria in the fall.

• Explore the Autumn Foliage: Enjoy hiking through the vast Bavarian Forest National Park, where the autumn colors create a stunning backdrop. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll through the gardens of Nymphenburg Palace in Munich, which are beautifully transformed in the fall.

• Drink Beer at Oktoberfest: Held from late September to the first weekend of October, Munich’s Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival. Experience Bavarian culture with traditional music, food, and, of course, a wide variety of beers. Indulge in pretzels (Brezn), sausages with sauerkraut or potato salad (Bratwurst and Weisswurst), roast pork (Schweinshaxe), and apple strudel. It’s a lively and festive way to enjoy the fall season.

• Discover Fairy-Tale Castles: Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, often depicted in fairy tales, surrounded by beautiful autumnal landscapes. While in the area, stop by Hohenschwangau Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding fall foliage and complements your visit to Neuschwanstein.

• Drive Through the Bavarian Alps: Explore the Alpine region with a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, enhanced by vibrant autumn colors. Additionally, drive along the Romantic Road, a scenic route that passes through charming medieval towns, rolling hills, and colorful vineyards.

• Relax at Bavarian Thermal Spas: Unwind in one of Bavaria’s renowned thermal spas, such as Bad Füssing or Bad Wörishofen. The fall season is an excellent time to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of the warm thermal waters.

4. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages offer an idyllic setting for fall travel. The region is renowned for its harvest festivals, wine tours, and culinary delights. Tuscany in the fall is a vibrant and delightful destination, offering a mix of stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and seasonal activities. Here are some ways to make the most of Tuscany during the fall.

• Explore Fall Landscapes: Drive through the Chianti wine region to see rolling hills covered in colorful autumn hues. Wander through picturesque vineyards and olive groves as they transition into fall colors. Additionally, explore the Val d'Orcia area, known for its iconic landscapes and charming villages.

• Experience the Harvest Season: Visit local vineyards to be part of the grape harvest. Many wineries offer tours and tastings during this time, allowing you to learn about and sample the season’s new wines. Fall is also the prime season for truffles. Experience the excitement of searching for these delicacies by joining a truffle hunting tour in regions like San Miniato or Volterra.

• Attend Festivals and Events: Participate in the Sagra della Castagna, a chestnut festival held in various towns, including Marradi and Castel del Rio. Celebrate the harvest with roasted chestnuts, chestnut-based dishes, and local crafts.

• Savor Culinary Delights: Enjoy seasonal dishes such as hearty stews, wild boar, and pumpkin-based dishes. Fall is also a great time to sample Tuscan wines, particularly the region’s robust reds. Book an olive oil tasting at an olive oil farm to experience freshly pressed olive oil, as fall is the season for new olive oil.

5. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh in the fall is a charming blend of historic ambiance and vibrant autumn colors. The city’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque scenery make it a must-visit destination during this season. Plan a trip to Scotland’s capital during this enchanting time and include the following activities.

• Marvel at Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this iconic fortress offers panoramic views of the city, which are particularly stunning in the fall with the city’s colorful foliage as a backdrop. Tour the castle’s historic buildings, see the Crown Jewels, and enjoy the exhibits on Scotland’s history.

• Hike Arthur’s Seat: This ancient volcanic hill provides breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape, especially striking against the fall hues. Hike to the summit and enjoy a picnic while taking in the panoramic views.

• Walk the Historic Royal Mile: This historic street is lined with charming shops, traditional pubs, and landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral. Explore small museums and boutiques, and enjoy a warm drink in one of the cozy cafes.

• Embrace the Spooky Season at the Edinburgh Dungeon: For a touch of spookiness in the fall, this attraction offers a thrilling journey through Scotland’s dark history with live actors and special effects. Experience the interactive shows and learn about Edinburgh’s haunted past.

• A Bookworm's Treasure: Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, and fall is a great time to explore its literary heritage. Take a walking tour focused on famous authors like Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott, or visit the Writer’s Museum. If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss the Edinburgh International Book Festival, featuring readings, discussions, and book signings.

• Drink Whisky: Fall is a perfect time to enjoy a warm, informative whisky tour and tasting. Join a guided tasting to learn about the history of Scotch whisky and sample a range of whiskies. Alternatively, hop into a cozy pub to taste whisky at your own pace and pair it with local dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties. Don’t forget to wash it all down with a pint of Scottish ale.

Now that you’re inspired, it’s the perfect time to plan your next fall adventure. Embrace the crisp autumn air as it transforms the world into a vibrant tapestry of rich, seasonal hues. Pick between the breathtaking foliage of New England, the historic charm of Kyoto’s temples, the festive spirit of Munich’s Oktoberfest, the truffle-rich landscapes of Tuscany, and the rich cultural heritage of Edinburgh and dive into the fall spirit.Each destination offers a distinctive way to celebrate and immerse yourself in the fall spirit. Whether you’re seeking scenic beauty, cultural immersion, or festive fun, these destinations promise to make your autumn travels unforgettable.