We think any time of year is the right time to travel, but some destinations truly shine in certain seasons. Wondering where to go this fall? Read on for a round-up of eight destinations that are especially amazing in autumn.
1. Bavaria, Germany
While Southern Germany is gorgeous 365 days out of the year, it’s especially alluring in autumn thanks to its breathtakingly brilliant fall foliage.
Bavaria also plays host to many festivals, including the original Oktoberfest in Munich.
Other activities and attractions that make Bavaria one of our favorite fall travel destinations? Hiking in the Alps, awe-inspiring palaces and castles, and horse-drawn carriage rides.
2. Lake District, England
There’s a reason why this mountainous region in North West England is such a popular holiday destination: its lakes, forests, woodlands, and sun-dappled hills make it an outdoor lover’s dream.
Factor in autumn’s magical light and the region’s scenic beauty truly comes alive.
And is there anything more romantic than stopping into a cozy local pub for a pint after a long day of adventuring?
3. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
While the Highlands may not be the best destination for sun-seekers due to its brisk climate, this dramatic destination offers an abundance of other things to do, including rivers, lochs, and scenic passes.
In addition to being the perfect time to view some of Europe’s rich foliage, fall is also ideal for spotting the region’s remarkable wildlife, including massive red deer stags.
4. Maui, Hawaii
Looking for more of a tropical vacation this fall? It’s hard to go wrong with Maui, a perennial pick for Hawaii’s top island by Travel + Leisure readers.
But Maui isn’t just near-endless miles of beaches. You’ll find national parks, rain forests, top-notch golf courses, and luxurious resorts.
Enjoy everything from unparalleled relaxation to thrilling recreation, all against a backdrop widely believed to be one of the most beautiful places on earth.
5. Athens, Greece
Athens may not seem like one of the best fall travel destinations, but a trip to the Greek capital in October will quickly change your mind.
While summer brings oppressive heat, the fall weather is in the sunny 70s.
You’ll also have fewer crowds to deal with when exploring the city’s plethora of historic sites, bars and restaurants, museums, and other top attractions.
6. Transylvania, Romania
Offering an inimitable combination of gothic castles (including the eponymous abode of Dracula himself) and fall scenery, there’s no better place to visit during spooky season than the one and only Transylvania. This is where vampire and werewolf legends were born, after all.
But there’s also plenty to see and do here for nature lovers, including the jaw-dropping views of the Carpathian and Fagaras Mountains.
History and culture buffs will also want to plan a stop in nearby Bucharest to visit the National History Museum and the Palace of Parliament.
7. Thingvellir National Park, Iceland
Longer days and moderate temperatures make a fall visit to Iceland an enticing one. While many people plan on traveling to Iceland in winter to catch the spectacular aurora borealis light show, it actually starts in mid-September.
Thingvellir National Park is astonishingly beautiful and lays claim to the country’s largest natural lake, Lake Thingvallavatn. Fall is also the best time to catch great northern divers gathering along its remote banks.
Also, plan on seeing the magnificent Gullfoss (“Golden Falls”) and Strokkur geyser, which frequently erupts to heights of up to 65 feet.
8. Tuscany, Italy
The end of peak tourist season brings true delight for travelers. The fall finds the end of stifling temperatures and the start of the region’s golden foliage — along with everything else you know and love about Italy.
Plus — did someone say “truffle season”?
And these are just the start when it comes to fall travel ideas. Other bucket list destinations for autumn travel? Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains, France’s Loire Valley, Lugano, Switzerland, and Nova Scotia, Canada.
Wherever your wanderlust takes you this fall, Business Class can help you get there in style. To save up to 60 percent off business class and first-class airfare to Germany, England, Iceland, and other top destinations, book with Business Class today.
