17 of the best fall vacations: top travel destinations and tips

Fall is the perfect time to travel. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is crisp, and the colors are stunning. Around the world, fall destinations come alive in totally different ways: think golden vineyards in Tuscany, fiery maple trees in Kyoto, or cozy pubs in Edinburgh. Fall also means harvest season—hello, wine tastings and fresh local dishes. Whether you want to sip beer at Oktoberfest in Bavaria, catch some of the world’s best fall foliage in Banff, or enjoy some everlasting sunshine in Marrakech or Diego Suarez, we’ve rounded up the perfect spots for adventure, comfort, and jaw-dropping scenery alike. Check out these best fall vacations around the world and start dreaming of your fall getaway…

17 best places to travel in the fall

If you need some fall vacation ideas, this list is full of spots to match any bucket list.

1. Sa Pa, Vietnam

Sa Pa, in Vietnam’s northern reaches, is a tricky place to get right. Many aim for winter, but the fall months – from mid-September to the end of October – is better. The weather is clear, the rice terraces are golden, and the views are unreal.

You’ll see misty mountains, colorful hilltribe villages, and feel like you’re floating above the clouds. It’s peaceful, romantic, and totally unique. Fall is also great for hiking and local homestay experiences.

Start your trip in Sa Pa and Hanoi, then maybe add a side trip to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. It’s a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

2. Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is particularly good in the fall. The skies are usually clear, sunny, and warm—but not hot. It’s the perfect weather for exploring ancient cities like Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Samarkand especially shines in the fall. As one of the most evocative names in travel, it calls to mind tales of the Timurid Empire and the spies of The Great Game.

The crowds thin out, and the golden light makes the blue-tiled mosques glow. Wander through Registan Square, visit the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, and explore centuries of Silk Road history.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto in the fall season is pure magic. The air is alive, the skies are clear, and the city glows with red and gold foliage. Late October to early December is the peak season for fall colors in Japan, and a perfect period to witness this popular city while soaking up its timeless charm.

Visit temples like Kiyomizu-dera, Eikando, and Tofuku-ji for incredible foliage views, and walk the Philosopher’s Path under a canopy of fiery maples. Snack on seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes, and don’t miss an evening temple light-up—a stunning spectacle.

Kyoto does see a surge of crowds in the fall, but the sheer beauty that awaits is worth it, and your local expert can recommend off-the-beaten path experiences for a more memorable escape.

Read more: What to do in Kyoto, Japan

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague in the fall feels like a fairy tale. The crowds thin out, the air turns crisp, and the city’s Gothic charm really shines. Golden leaves line the Vltava River, and cozy cafés are perfect for warming up. Explore Prague Castle, stroll across Charles Bridge, and enjoy the quiet magic of the Old Town.

Fall is also a great time to head into the countryside. Visit Český Krumlov for the architecture, or the wine region of Moravia. Vineyards glow with fall colors, and local festivals bring small towns to life. The best fall trips in the Czech Republic offer a mix of history, scenery, and relaxation.

5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam in the fall is cozy, colorful, and calm. The summer tourists are gone, and the canals reflect golden leaves and soft light. It’s the perfect time for a bike ride through Vondelpark or a canal cruise with a warm drink in hand. The Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are quieter, too, so art enthusiasts can enjoy more laid-back viewings of iconic masterpieces.

Fall is a great time for feasting on Dutch treats, including apple pies, pancakes, and hot chocolate. Outside the city, visit charming towns and cities like Haarlem or the windmills of Zaanse Schans. Don’t forget to pack a jacket and umbrella—fall weather can be moody in the Netherlands, but that only adds to its charm!

6. Tuscany, Italy

Fall vacations in the rolling hills of Italy‘s Tuscany are wonderful. The vineyards turn golden, the weather is mild, and the food is at its best. It’s the season for harvesting, so think truffles, fresh olive oil, and wine tastings straight from the source. Not to mention, the sunsets are especially unforgettable.

Wander through hilltop towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano. Take a cooking class, sip Chianti, or relax in the countryside at your leisure. Fall is also festival season, with plenty of local events celebrating food and wine. Tuscany slows down in the fall months, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

7. Banff, Canada

Fall in Canada is both peaceful and full of ravishing beauty; Banff in the fall is a particular feast for the eyes, especially when the colors pop against the Rockies. Looking to plan a long road trip across Canada? The route from Banff to Niagara Falls is packed with nuggets of wonder.

This time of year is ideal for hiking, wildlife-spotting, and cozy nights by a crackling open fire. Golden larch trees light up the trails around the Larch Valley and Lake Louise, and you might even catch the first dusting of snow on distant peaks.

8. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh in the fall is moody, but in the best possible way. The cobbled streets feel extra-atmospheric, with a little mist in the air. It’s a perfect season for cozy pub nights, ghost tours, and exploring the historic Old Town. For the best views of the city, climb Arthur’s Seat or take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens.

Fall also brings plenty of seasonal treats: be sure to indulge in rich stews, hearty game dishes featuring wild duck and grouse, and spiced whisky. Day trips to the Scottish Highlands or nearby castles are stunning at this time of year, and shouldn’t be missed if you have enough time to spare.

9. Bavaria, Germany

Hunting for fairy-tale fall vacations? Bavaria is for you, as Germany shines this time of year with especially scenic, colorful forests. You’ll love the mountain villages, castle views, and beer gardens under golden trees. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle or explore Munich’s streets, and if you love hiking, heed the call of the Bavarian Alps.

Fall is also Oktoberfest season—expect lively crowds, music, and plenty of local flavor until early October. Smaller towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber are extra-charming and host fewer tourists, and you can sample warm pretzels, apple strudel, and hearty meals in a more tranquil setting.

10. Budapest, Hungary

Hungary cools down after the summer months, making it perfect for sightseeing without the heat. Budapest has all the amenities and is one of the most beautiful places to visit: stroll along the Danube, soak in the famous thermal baths, and watch the city glow with fall colors. Buda Castle, Parliament, and cozy cafés in the Jewish Quarter are all worth adding to your sightseeing list.

Fall is Hungary’s wine season, so be sure to indulge in Hungarian reds and sweet Tokaji. For more unforgettable treats to the senses, grab a slice of chimney cake at a local café or savor sunset views from a prime position at Fisherman’s Bastion, one of the city’s must-visit sites.

11. Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik in the fall is peaceful, enchanting, and a little wild—in the best way. Iceland starts to quiet down after the summer rush, and the days are shorter, so you might catch the northern lights dancing overhead. Mid- to late September and October are some of the best times to look for them.

Explore cute cafés, colorful houses, and local art in the city. Then, warm up in a geothermal pool or take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. Fall is also great for road trips—the Golden Circle and South Coast are stunning, with fewer crowds making for a more enjoyable time out. Bring layers for warmth, and a sense of adventure!

12. Paris, France

France‘s capital is, as you might imagine, effortlessly romantic in the fall. Leaves crunch underfoot in the Jardin du Luxembourg, cafés glow with candlelight, and fresh croissants taste even better in cooler air. Walk along the Seine, visit the Louvre without the queues, and enjoy the golden light as it hits the Eiffel Tower.

Fall is also harvest time in France: if you’re up for a road trip and have extra time to spend in the country, head to the wine regions of Burgundy or Bordeaux, for vineyard tours and tastings. Or, explore smaller towns like Annecy and Colmar, which are full of seasonal charm.

13. Diego Suarez (Antsiranana), Madagascar

In terms of fall vacations, Antsiranana (formerly known as Diego Suarez) is a hidden gem. Madagascar’s dry season is ending at this time of year, so the weather is warm and mostly sunny. It’s a great time to explore without the peak season crowds.

Hike through Amber Mountain National Park for waterfalls, wildlife, and lush scenery. Visit the Emerald Sea for turquoise water and kitesurfing, or soak up the laid-back vibe, colonial charm, and colorful markets of the city of Antsiranana itself. You’ll find unique culture, friendly locals, and amazing nature all around.

14. Tulum, Mexico

Tulum in the fall is warm, laid-back, and less crowded. Mexico’s rainy season is winding down, so you’ll get sunny days and better prices. It’s a great time to relax on quiet beaches along the Gulf shores or swim in crystal-clear cenotes, as the water is warm and the sunsets are dreamy.

Visit the famous Tulum ruins with fewer tourists, explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, or bike through town for tacos and boutique shopping. Fall is also perfect for wellness—think yoga, spa days, and ocean breezes. If you want tropical weather without the chaos, fall in Tulum is perfect.

15. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is warm, vibrant, and full of life in the fall, with abundant spices, sounds, and sights at every corner. Morocco will have cooled down just enough to explore comfortably, and the capital’s souks are buzzing, the gardens are lush, and the colors feel even richer under the sun.

Wander the Marrakech Medina, visit the Bahia Palace, and relax in a traditional hammam, before settling down for rooftop dinners and glasses of mint tea at sunset. Day trips to the Atlas Mountains are cooler and more enjoyable; you’ll get plenty of sunshine, but without the heaving summer heat.

16. Yunnan, China

Fall is a great time of year to visit China’s Yunnan province. The skies are clear, rain is rare, and the temperatures are just right—cooler as you head higher. This is the season for slow travel and breathtaking views. Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La are the big names, each offering cobbled streets, mountain backdrops, and rich culture.

Don’t forget the smaller and more underrated spots: Shaxi, for example, is full of charm and tradition. Markets buzz, locals still live by old rhythms, and the pace is wonderfully peaceful. Fall is perfect for soaking up Yunnan’s beauty, both in its popular towns and quiet corners.

17. Cape Town, South Africa

If you’re looking to escape the fall weather at home, in South Africa, spring will be in full bloom. The weather in Cape Town is mild and sunny, perfect for a bit of everything. Hike Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, or take in the views from Signal Hill. Shop at the V&A Waterfront or hit the beaches before the summer crowds arrive.

Fall is wildflower season, especially along the West Coast, and an ideal time of year to visit natural expanses like the West Coast National Park, before the crowds arrive. For a change of scene, stop at wineries in Stellenbosch or take a coastal road trip to do some whale-watching in Hermanus.

Tips for fall travel

Traveling in the fall is awesome, but a little prep goes a long way. Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of it:

• Layer up: Fall weather can change fast—sunny one minute, chilly the next. Bring a mix of light and warm clothes.
• Book early: Fall is a season of hidden gems and great deals, so flights and hotels can fill up faster than you’d think.
• Check local festivals: From food fests to harvest fairs, fall is full of cultural events.
• Pack waterproof gear: Fall showers are real. A light rain jacket or travel umbrella could be a lifesaver.
• Go for golden hour: Fall light is dreamy. Snap your travel photos in the early morning or late afternoon for the best glow.
• Think about shoulder season perks: You’ll enjoy smaller crowds, better prices, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Be flexible: Some attractions have shorter hours or are closed for the season, so double-check before you go.

FAQs about fall travel destinations

Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions and their answers to soothe any concerns you might still have about traveling in the fall.

Can I still hike or do outdoor activities in the fall?

Fall is actually perfect for hiking—you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and gorgeous landscapes. Just check the weather conditions ahead of time. Bring layers and start hikes earlier, since daylight fades faster. National parks, mountain hiking trails, and coastal walks are especially magical this time of year.

What food is popular to try in the fall?

Fall is all about comfort food and seasonal flavors. Think pumpkin dishes, roasted veggies, mulled wine, cider, and warm pastries. In Europe, you’ll find harvest feasts and local specialties aplenty, while in Asia, Japan is popular for its chestnut desserts and sweet potatoes.

Are fall festivals worth attending?

Absolutely. Fall festivals are some of the best: Oktoberfest in Germany, truffle festivals in Italy, wine harvests in France, and autumn lantern festivals in Asia. You’ll find an abundance of local flavor, live music, and a real sense of place. Just check dates, as these can vary year to year.

How early should I book a fall trip?

It depends on where you’re going. For popular fall spots, try to book two to three months in advance. Last-minute trips are still possible, especially in less touristy places, but booking early helps you snag better deals and prime accommodations.

Make it happen

Fall is a magical time to travel. Whether you’re chasing the changing leaves, hunting for great festivals, or looking out for cozy vibes, there’s a perfect destination out there for you. The crowds are smaller, the air is fresh, and the photo ops are unbeatable. From golden landscapes to peaceful mountain getaways, autumn adventures hit differently. So, now that you know why traveling in the off-peak season is a good idea, grab your passport, book that trip, and get ready to explore…