Fall is one of the best times to travel. With the kids back in school, tourist numbers start to drop, and with that, often hotel rates and airfare. The season often brings more idyllic weather, with opportunities for exploring sights without wiping away all the sweat. In many countries, you’ll be able to enjoy vibrant foliage too. No matter what you’re looking for, these countries are sure to make for an ideal escape this fall.
Greece
Fall in Greece brings everything from gorgeous autumn colors to blissfully crowd-free beaches and especially pleasant weather. Witnessing Meteora highlighted by brilliant foliage is a must. The dramatic cliffs soaring more than 1,200 feet overlook the villages of Kalambaka and Kastraki and are home to a vast Eastern Orthodox monastic complex that’s unlike any other place on Earth, dating all the way back to the 14th century. If you’re here in the fall, you can also help with the local grape harvest and sample lots of great wines, celebrate the olive harvest, or simply just lounge on a beach, enjoying the soft sands and azure waters all to yourself.
Ireland
Fall is arguably the best season to visit Ireland. While the weather is never guaranteed, from mid-September to mid-October, you’re likely to have multiple days with bright blue skies, if slightly crisp temperatures. The Wicklow Mountains, a short drive south of Dublin, are one of the top spots for autumn color, with the trees covered in a brilliant golden hue. There are miles and miles of scenic hiking trails where you’re likely to see more waterfalls and deer than humans. Connemara is another one of the country’s top spots for fall color, and no matter where you go, if inclement weather does roll in, just duck into one of the many pubs and enjoy the warmth of the fire and a pint.
Italy
One of the world’s most popular destinations is ideal in the fall. While Italy may not be uncrowded, in the Italian lake areas, you can enjoy the stunning fall foliage, and if you want to hit the beach, the Mediterranean stays warm through early to mid-October. This is also the time to visit to sample fabulous foods like wild mushrooms and truffles, as well as join in on festivals that celebrate the harvest, including olives and grapes. Piedmont’s wine country is ideal, sometimes called the “next Tuscany” with its lush vineyards, rich cuisine and charming hilltop towns. In October, the hills of Le Langhe wine region are a vivid yellow as the vines transform.
Australia
During fall in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s spring in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the best times for a trip to Australia. The wet season begins in November, bringing raging torrents to beautiful waterfalls like Wallaman Falls in Girringun National Park of Queensland, the highest waterfall in the country. You’ll enjoy pleasantly warm weather in areas of northern and western Australia, the Northern Territory from Darwin south to the Tanami Desert, most of coastal Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, a must-experience with its vibrant coral, 1,600 species of tropical fish, sea turtles, dolphins, rays, sharks and giant clams. One of Australia’s greatest claims to fame is the Great Barrier Reef. This tremendous coral reef system is a diver’s dream, as it is home to nearly 3,000 reefs and almost 1,000 islands.
Scotland
Scotland is breathtaking year-round and even more so in the fall, particularly in the Highlands and in Perthshire, also known as Big Trees Country. Here, lochs and rivers reflect the array of gold and copper on tree-covered hillsides, making it ideal for exploring and capturing postcard-perfect photos. Some of the best spots are near Loch Tummel, the Pass of Killiecrankie and Knock Hill. The steep walk to Knock Hill is rewarded with jaw-dropping views from the summit of the Highlands to the north.
England
The Lake District of England is renowned for having some of the finest scenery in England, with the greenest countryside and some of the best autumn foliage. Ride down the tranquil country lanes on a bike or hike the lush hills. In the fall, the golden light makes everything look even more magnificent, with glistening lakes surrounded by gold and ruby-colored hills. While the weather here is notoriously unpredictable, that just provides the perfect excuse to duck into one of the area’s cozy pubs for a pint of local ale or cider.
Switzerland
Switzerland’s tree-covered slopes mean that it’s another one of the world’s most beautiful countries to visit in the fall. The especially picturesque city of Lugano borders Italy and sits along the shores of Lake Lugano, underneath the shadow of mountains just south of the Alps. An autumn trip here means that summer’s hot temperatures have given way to a milder climate and a choreographed setting of vibrant color. Visit over the first weekend of October to attend the Autumn Festival, which showcases folkloric music as well as celebrations of grapes and fine wines.
