Top Fall Travel Destinations
Fall is one of my favorite times of year to travel. Growing up in Southern California, we really don't have a traditional "Fall" with the gorgeous leaves and foliage. So I've loved traveling to different places to get the full Fall experience. I love finding new Fall travel destinations to add to my list. There are so many amazing Fall travel destinations in the world, but these are the top 10 in my opinion. Bonus: most of these destinations are much less crowded during the Fall and the weather is perfect - not too hot and not too cold yet!
1: New England, USA
One of the top Fall travel destinations is the New England region in the USA. The region includes a few states, but most notably Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont. It's one of the top (if not, the top!) destinations in the USA for leaf peeping. The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is a famous drive where you can fully experience the Fall foliage. Vermont has a number of pumpkin picking, apple cider tasting, and pie spots. You can't get more "Fall" than traveling to New England.
2: Prague, Czech Republic
Prague's historic streets are even more charming in the Fall. The weather is perfect, and ideal for walks along the Vltava River. Another great thing is the food scene. The city's cafes and restaurants seem to get even more cozier and offer traditional Czech dishes - the perfect Fall comfort food. Be sure to visit the city's iconic spots like Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square, which are even prettier in the Fall.
3: Bavaria, Germany
While Bavaria is most famous for its annual Oktoberfest, the city itself is gorgeous in the Fall. It truly shines in the Fall, specifically the Bavarian Alps. The region's charming alpine villages are decorated with Fall foliage, giving you that cozy Fall feeling. Bavaria's fall festivals, including Oktoberfest, give an authentic experience of Bavarian culture. Whether you're hiking in the mountains, experiencing Oktoberfest, or just enjoying the beauty of the countryside, Bavaria in the Fall is unforgettable.
4: Kyoto, Japan
It's no secret that Kyoto is gorgeous in the Spring, but it takes a completely different form of beauty in the Fall. The gardens and temples come alive with crimson and gold leaves. Most notably, the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) are amazing to visit. You can wander through the pathways filled with Fall foliage. Kyoto also has fall festivals like the Arashiyama Maple Leaf Viewing and the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages).
Top Fall Travel Destinations
5: Tuscany, Italy
The vineyards and rolling hills of Tuscany are especially picturesque in the Fall. The cooler weather also gives you the chance to explore the historic towns like Florence, Siena, and Lucca more comfortably. On top of the gorgeous scenery, Fall is the season to indulge in the region's world-famous wines - Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Tuscany also has harvest festivals and truffle fairs.
6: Aspen, Colorado
Known for its golden aspen trees, Aspen is another prime destination for leaf peeping in the Fall. The vibrant foliage creates a gorgeous contrast against the Rocky Mountain backdrop, making every hike and drive so scenic. In addition to the scenery, Aspen has a number of cultural events and festivals like the Aspen Filmfest and the Aspen Music Festival.
7: Québec City, Canada
Québec City takes on a special charm in the Fall that is nothing short of enchanting. As the leaves start to change, the city's cobblestone streets and buildings seem to come alive with warm hues. Fall is also the time when the city's food scene shines. Its cozy bistros and cafes serve seasonal dishes like savory tourtière and maple syrup-infused dishes. Québec City is also home to the Festival d'Été de Québec, which celebrates local culture through music, art, and food.
8: Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is one of the top Fall travel destinations in France. As the vineyards and châteaux showcase their autumnal hues, the valley displays reds and golds. The cooler weather makes it perfect for bike rides along the Loire River too. And if you're a wine lover, Fall offers the grape harvest, making it a great time to taste regional wines.
9: Budapest, Hungary
Fall is arguably one of the best times to visit Budapest. The city's amazing architecture, specifically the Parliament Building and Buda Castle, seems to light up in the autumn light. The changing leaves along the waterfront promenade along the Danube River are another must-see. Fall is also a great time for Budapest's cultural scene - concerts, art exhibits, and theater performances. It's also the perfect time to indulge in traditional Hungarian dishes, like goulash and chimney cake, at the city's cozy restaurants.
10: Seoul, Korea
Seoul might seem like an unexpected Fall destination, but trust me, it's gorgeous. If you Google Fall pictures of Asan Gingko Tree Road or Deoksugung Doldam-gil, you will get it. The leaves along the city change to traditional red, orange, and yellow, and are a must see. Fall in Seoul is also synonymous with the Chrysanthemum Festival, which showcases the country's appreciation for flowers and art. You can partake in traditional rituals, sample seasonal Korean cuisine, and enjoy street performances.