For us, we explored the magical colors of Daedunsan and its Cloud Bridge, declared South Korea’s autumn a winner at life, and sought out the top romantic destinations to enjoy autumn in Korea.
From the romantic backdrop of elegant architecture or glimmering waters, to settings for cozy cuddles with brews and spiced drinks—autumn travel destinations will inspire you to chase that fleeting soft autumn light across the world for yourself.
We’ve also frolicked among the golden hues so prominent in California’s Eastern Sierra Fall Colors.
The brush of autumn imbues the landscape in vibrant warmth and the air in briskness—perfect conditions for taking to the world’s autumn travel destinations and exploring their seasonal beauty.
The brisk air of autumn also ushers in its fair share of tricks and treats. We’ve even gotten debaucherous in the fall-favorite festivals of Halloween at the West Hollywood Carnaval and Munich, Germany’s Oktoberfest.
To commemorate this magical harvest season, we’ve also asked a few of our fellow travel blogger friends to tell us about their favorite autumn travel destinations.
Everyone has their own favorite spots for scoping out a bit of autumn, but for those who’d like a tip from those who travel most, here’s our list of travel bloggers’ picks for top autumn travel destinations.
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- Pack the right travel cameras and comfortable travel clothes
“Autumn…the year’s last, loveliest smile.”
― William Cullen Bryant
Contents
Copenhagen, Denmark
Autumn travel destination recommended by Nick of Wingspreader Travel
The Danish capital of Copenhagen is beautiful in all seasons, but has a special vibe going on in the autumn.
Be warned, it might not be the best place to visit if you’re looking for a little late season sun. It’s usually notably colder here than other western European cities in the fall.
But if you pack some warm clothes, you will definitely enjoy everything the many things to do in Copenhagen.
Some tips to make the most out of an autumn visit to Copenhagen:
We highly recommend getting the Copenhagen City Card, which gives you entrance to 80+ attractions, as well as free public transportation and a canal boat cruise.
Stroll through the Nyhavn district, with its characteristic coloured houses. Grab a coffee or a local beer in one of the cozy pubs and cafes.
To see a lot of the city in a short amount time, take a boat tour around Copenhagen’s canals. Boats are heated (luckily) and also depart from Nyhavn.
If you’re not comfortable navigating public transportation systems on your own, use the hop-on hop-off tourist bus to easily navigate Copenhagen’s top attractions.
Visit one of the many design shops and check out some famous Danish design. A perfect activity when the weather isn’t on your side. There’s also a Design Museum, which is included for free as part of the Copenhagen City Card.
Tivoli Gardens
End your day at the vintage amusement park Tivoli Gardens, right in the heart of the city. This one-of-a-kind amusement park really comes to life in autumn evenings, thanks to the beautiful seasonal decorations.
Entrance to Tivoli Gardens costs about $30, or you can get a discounted ticket here.
Tivoli Gardens entrance is also included for free as part of the Copenhagen City Card, not including rides.
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Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Autumn travel destination recommended by Katalin of Our Life, Our Travel
We moved to Vancouver in August for few months. This was my first autumn in America.
While growing up in Hungary, autumn was my favourite season, but this appreciation started to fade away during my last years spent in the boreal forests of Finland.
Finally, I feel it again. Despite the rainy days, the colors are stunning—red, green, yellow—and every shade of them!
And if you do get caught in the rain, here are the best things to do in Vancouver when it rains.
Colorful maples, oaks and alders are everywhere in the city! Not only on the streets and in the parks, but in the nature as well. It is the perfect time of the year to go for a hike.
This is the most beautiful autumn I’ve ever had!
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Oxford, England
Autumn travel destination recommended by Sylwester of On the way to TV
Our spontaneous visit to Oxford turned out to be one of the most magical days we have ever spent in the United Kingdom. The city of Oxford is one of the best travel destinations in England.
Exploring the University of Oxford in early autumn can be a breathtaking experience. The stunning architecture of the university buildings, together with colourful university parks, make the campus look like the set of the Harry Potter films.
Young people studying on benches and lawns, playing games and cycling around creates the relaxing vibe of this harmonious place. It is definitely one of our favourite places in Great Britain, especially in autumn!
We recently returned from a trip to England ourselves, and fully recommend renting a car and getting out to the countryside, if you can.
We recommend Discover Cars for finding affordable car rentals while you are traveling, with the ability to compare prices to ensure you the best deal. We visited Oxford and the Cotswolds, and with a rental car, we had the ultimate freedom to explore. There are some charming places to stay in Castle Combe that you’ll need a rental car to reach, for example. Splendid!
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Hamburg, Germany
Autumn travel destination recommended by Christina of birdwinks
An autumn’s stroll can take you around a huge lake surrounded by trees of all color, from bright red to deep gold, the water reflecting and twinkling beneath the still warming sun, a clear blue sky above, sailboats sporadically floating in and out of sight, a fresh, salty breeze tangling your hair.
Sounds like a secluded little paradise somewhere, anywhere, far away?
Well – in fact, the lake called Alster is in the very center of Hamburg, Germany’s vibrant northern pearl. It’s fascinating, when on the water, you’re in the middle of a city above 1,5 million in population, and still surrounded by the fewest people.
But not only the trees offer a firework of colors.
Rummage through diverse flea markets to your heart’s content, explore the numerous fascinating museums during greyer days (the Miniatur Wunderland will make your inner child’s eyes glow!) —and definitely enjoy the wide view over its typically copper green roofs from Michel, Hamburg’s landmark.
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Rome, Italy
Autumn travel destination recommended by Clara of CLARA on the road
There’s something special about the light in Rome in autumn. And there are, of course, a million other reasons to visit Italy as well.
When you are going to visit Rome – it can be winter or summer – you are going to be overwhelmed by its majestic beauty. But I think it’s in autumn that the city brings out the best and shows its treasures in a magic light.
The Colosseum is always magnificent, but it is even more so with a red-purple sky background.
Having a walk along the Tiber River is more picturesque if framed by red-yellow leaves.
Even visiting Vatican’s Museum could be more pleasant if you know that, once you finish the visit, you will be embraced by a tasty pasta and a glass of Italian wine (yes, autumn is wine season) to be enjoyed on a crisp fall day.
Learn how to get discounted tickets to Rome attractions
And if you need to slow down from the city rhythm and relax for a while, why don’t you have a walk in the Orange Garden? It’s located on the top of a little hill very close to the center, and it’s an oasis of peace with a spectacular view on the city. It’s a small park full of orange trees, the perfect place to enjoy autumn color shades of this amazing city.
Rome in autumn is so magnificent, you’ll easily see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Italy for families.
Follow CLARA on the road on Facebook and Instagram
Chester, England
Autumn travel destination recommended by Emilia of Llamateurs
The best thing about Chester is that you can enjoy autumn in two countries at the same time!
This border city between England and Wales has a lot to offer during this magical season. Since Chester is between England and Wales, it’s a perfect stop on your way between the two locations.
A stop at this walled cathedral city is also a perfect addition to any Wales itinerary. If you’re headed to Wales and need more ideas for your trip, be sure to check out this 1 week Wales itinerary.
Chester is a beautiful place to experience the season of fall.
You can watch the autumn colours on the trees with a historical cathedral at the background (and visit it for free!), feel the Roman spirits during walks on the city walls (2,95 km around the city!) or feel the fresh breeze outside the local pubs near the canal.
The best idea to see all the attractions (and stay fit all year long!) is to jump on a bike and go for a trip. There is so much to see!
When you’re filled with energy, don’t forget to visit Grosvenor Park and feed squirrels. These little creatures are really friendly and if you have enough nuts maybe they’ll tell you secrets about Chester and why nobody wants to leave this place eventually…
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Lisbon, Portugal
Autumn travel destination recommended by Maria of The Wanderer’s Chronicles
It’s not without a good reason that Momondo has chosen Lisbon as one of the best fall destinations.
The Portuguese city is beautiful all throughout the year, but there are a few sound arguments in favor of an autumn.
For one, the milder climate of fall can make walking up and down the seven hills much easier.
Another advantage of visiting Lisbon this time of the year is you will find it less crowded. The high season for tourism has ended, and you’ll get to see more locals than visitors in the streets. The access to museums and monuments will be easier and the prices will be more attractive.
You probably won’t find grilled sardines, but you’ll have roasted chestnuts if the temperatures start to dip and you want to warm up your hands. You can easily find this tasty snack on the streets—you just have to follow the smell and the signs of smoke. A paper cone with 12 smoking hot chestnuts will cost you around 2,5 € and will warm up your soul (and stain your hands, also!). Be sure to check out the best food markets in Lisbon to plan your foodie ventures!
North of Lisbon, the city of Porto in Portugal is also one of the best European cities to visit in November.
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Bruges, Belgium
Autumn travel destination recommended by Rashmi and Chalukya of GOBeyondBounds
Bruges is a pure and untouched surreal medieval town in Belgium.
It is well connected from Brussels and is less than an hour which makes it a perfect one-day destination from the capital city. Bruges in autumn turns more romantic than ever and one can enjoy the town in vibrant colors.
We would advise spending a day in Bruges exploring the town by foot or by cycle. And when you are in Bruges don’t forget to have some Belgian fries, as Bruges is said to have the first and only museum dedicated to potato fries and the production of Belgian fries.
You might also choose to combine your trip with a visit to the nearby Ghent. If you choose to make a day trip out of it, check out the best things to do in Ghent in one day!
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Seattle, Washington, USA
Autumn travel destination recommended by Marcie of Marcie in Mommyland
It’s the perfect time to see one of the waterfalls near Seattle!
Puddles that are perfect for splashing in are almost always guaranteed in this city know for its rainy weather.
Speaking of weather, fall begins with toasty warm weather and transitions into crisp days perfect for sweaters and scarves. If you’re looking for family travel destinations for autumn, Seattle is perfect! With gorgeous golden hues and plenty to do, visiting Seattle with kids will make for an autumn trip to remember.
True Seattlelites grew up wearing coats under their Halloween costumes and usually also incorporated an umbrella.
Every Friday in Seattle is Blue Friday, where locals show off their Seahawks pride with Seahawks sweatshirts, jerseys and even rain boots! Finally, I feel like Seattle is the home of Pumpkin Spice Lattes, which is autumn in a cup!
You might want to consider taking a bus from Seattle to Vancouver while you’re visiting, as Vancouver is also a top autumn travel destination on our list!
Heading to Seattle? Check out these 3 Underrated Seattle Attractions You Cannot Miss
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So there you have it—the magic of the season through autumn travel destinations across the world. Now don’t get us wrong, we appreciate all the seasons: perfect hidden beach summer days, the blooming of Korean cherry blossom trees in the spring, or the gleefully unfamiliar Jeju Island winter that ushered in more snow than any of the previous 30 years. But still, there’s just something so whimsical and comforting about the season of falling leaves that makes autumn travel destinations all that more enticing.
And right around the corner is winter, so be sure to check out this list of Top Winter Travel Destinations according to travel bloggers next.
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What are some of your favorite autumn travel destinations?
Let us know in a comment below!
35 Comments
Maria
at 5:25 pmThe post is great and after reading it we just want to pack and travel around the world enjoying this beautiful season! Thank you so much for your work, putting all this together and for giving me the opportunity to cooperate with you and with this great group of bloggers.
Lauren West
at 2:49 amNo problem, Maria! Thank you so much for contributing!
James
at 5:37 pmNice post! I can confirm that Autumn in Rome and Lisbon are like this.
Lauren West
at 2:50 amThey sound absolutely amazing in the autumn!
Curlygirlabroad
at 3:24 amGreat suggestions, nice that Brugge(Bruges) was included! I went to Paris this fall, was great too 😉
// https://curlygirlabroad.wordpress.com/
Lauren West
at 8:11 amOf course, Paris is always lovely <3
Danielle @ Follow My Gut
at 10:26 amOMG I really wish I had more vacation days to explore all these places!!! For now, I think I’ll just dream about the Univ. of Oxford. That walking trail looks so stunning and the colors are beautiful. We definitely don’t have that here in LA so I’m totally living vicariously though this post =]
Lauren West
at 2:41 amYes, as an Angeleno myself I’m definitely appreciating the seasonal beauty here in Korea!
The Travel Ninjas
at 5:12 pmHi Lauren and Ben. First time on your site. Great post on autumn travel. We’ve been lucky to have seen some these autumn destinations, but you also gave us some great ideas for future trips. Oh yeah, small world. Steve graduated from UCLA too!
Lauren West
at 2:42 amOh sweet! Go Bruins! And I’m glad you have some ideas for the future!
Jessica
at 5:56 pmI probably would have never thought of most of these places for a fall trip! Even after 11 years abroad Canada remains my pick.
Lauren West
at 2:43 amI have to make a dedicated trip to Canada to appreciate its beauty as soon as possible!
Sanne - Spend Life Traveling
at 8:01 pmI love this list! It’s true, some destinations just become even prettier in Autumn. Rome and Bruges are definitely 2 of my favorites!
Lauren West
at 2:44 amWe agree completely!
Gareth
at 8:51 pmCouldn’t agree with you more, autumn is most certainly my favorite time of year and as your post highlights, there are some places that really come alive during these months. And while I have no arguments with your picks – Copenhagen and Washington are both particularly beautiful in the fall – may I also add a couple of suggestions of my own? Firstly, any of the Northeastern states were all gorgeous when I traveled through them last October, such incredible color while Ireland, both North and South are really great during these times, at least when the weather decides to cooperate. Anyway, really great post as always and just more proof you were deserving of that Versatile Blogger Nomination! Look forward to reading more
Lauren West
at 2:45 amThank you so much, Gareth! I’ve definitely heard about the stunning autumn beauty of the Northeastern states and Ireland. I have to venture over there sometime soon!
Ana
at 9:35 pmYour photos are all stunning! It has been my dream to experience the winter season. We don’t have that kind here in the Philippines. I wish I could know how does it feel to breathe the winter air, to see the colors of the leaves on the trees. 🙂
Lauren West
at 2:46 amI love the beauty of autumn and winter–but the cold temperatures themselves are definitely difficult for me to adjust to! The Philippines is still absolutely stunning though!
Caroline @ The Travelling Sloth
at 2:11 amI love how you’ve included a couple of pointers for Denmark to help make the most of Autumn!
I definitely second England for autumn! Visited the country twice this season and it’s such a lovely place. I like all (but two) of these destinations is in Europe… I should start planning for next autumn and make a europe trip out of it 😀
Lauren West
at 2:48 amThank you, Caroline! Autumn is definitely a treat to enjoy across Europe–I’m sure you’d have an amazing trip!
Anthony Jury
at 1:57 pmYou could probably add another thousand destinations to the fall list and it wouldn’t be a bad choice. Autumn is truly spectacular and yhe choices and pictures in this blog show its true colours. The only thing I don’t like about fall is that winter is nearing, I am not a fan of the cold.
Lauren West
at 2:49 amI’m absolutely the same way about the cold, Anthony!
Gelyka
at 11:53 amI once read that Copenhagen is really the place to be for autumn travel. Glad to see it in this list!
Lauren West
at 2:50 amHappy to hear it, Gelyka!
Sheena
at 12:44 pmThe destination that stands out to me most on the list if Vancouver – Stanley Park is just beautiful in the fall. I think England would also be beautiful to visit at this time, I’m actually planning a trip there in the fall next year, can’t wait!
Lauren West
at 11:45 amI would LOVE to visit England during this time!
Sarah
at 3:55 amThese all look wonderful for taking in fall colors! I am biased about my favorite fall destination, as I live in New England and think that it touts the most stunning of autumns. Even during my commute to work, I’m delighted by brightly colored trees lining the busy highway! It makes my commute to work that much more enjoyable! Also, a trip up to the White Mountains in New Hampshire will never disappoint a “leaf peeper”!
Lauren West
at 11:45 amSounds AMAZING. Maybe we’ll plan a trip for New Hampshire this upcoming gall!
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Michelle
at 2:38 amI am looking forward to go to Europe or ride by car ! Now I am even more excited reading your lovely post, also your clicks are so pretty!!
Lauren West
at 2:45 pmHave an amazing trip!!
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