Fall is our absolute favorite time of the year to travel. It’s usually shoulder season for most places {just outside of the high season, which means cheaper rates and fewer crowds!} The weather is a bit cooler which makes outdoor activities more enjoyable. Plus we love seeing how fall looks all over the world. This fall, we are doing a three week France road trip. We can’t wait to share more about that with you later! For now, 13 travel bloggers are sharing insider tips on where to travel this fall! Warning: this post may incite severe wanderlust!
13 Travel Bloggers Share Where to Travel This Fall
1. London – Christie of Ckanani
“I consider London a great place to visit all year round, but I especially enjoy it in the fall once peak tourist season is over but before the {very} cold weather rolls in. With temperatures between 50-63 on average, you are able to comfortably be outside exploring the sights and looking at the changing autumn leaves. On the other hand, if it happens to get too cold or you run into some rain, London is full of endless indoor options like brunch in Chelsea at No. 11 Pimlico Road, afternoon tea at Sketch, or a visit to one of its many museums!”
For more on London, check out Christie’s post here!
2. Amsterdam – Collette of Roamaroo
“When the sun begins to set a little earlier, the leaves turn to stunning shades of fall colors, and the crowds dissipate from the canal belt, autumn in Amsterdam takes hold. While tourists flock to the Dutch capital in the summertime, the crisp air coupled with quixotic canals make autumn the perfect time to visit Amsterdam.
Fall is the perfect time for a grown-up getaway so grab your sweetheart and head over to Amsterdam for the perfect combination of naughty and nice. Every October, the Amsterdam Dance Event, a massive electronic dance music festival, comes alive for a week of dancing debauchery. Continue your adult escape with visits to the cities best breweries, including our personal favorite, Brouwerij ‘t IJ. Round out your romantic rendezvous with trips to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum as well as a private boat ride around the canals.”
For more on Amsterdam, check out Collette’s post here!
3. Oregon – Esther of Local Adventurer
“Oregon is such a beautiful destination to visit in the fall. You don’t have to deal with the summer crowds, and there are a lot of outdoor spots to explore just 30 minutes outside of Portland. The waterfalls especially look beautiful surrounded by fall foliage. It may not be the best place just for leaf peeping, but the combination of the landscapes and changing colors make Oregon a top fall destination for us.”
For more on Oregon, check out Esther’s post here!
4. Italy – Flo of Yoga Wine Travel
“There are a few countries in the world that I find myself going back to, time and time again. These places never get old, and every single time I travel there I find myself feeling more at home: Italy is one of those places. It offers an abundance of culture and history, incredible food and wine, and the dreamiest of landscapes (just look at the Amalfi Coast!)…which is exactly why hordes of people flock to Rome, Florence, Venice, Naples, Capri and Milan during the summer months. As autumn approaches, the crowds thin out slightly but the days are less sweltering and the nights are cooler. The harvest season kicks in and this is when you get some of the most amazing autumnal produce like truffles and beautiful grapes for that perfect glass of vino. If you’re planning a vacation during the fall months then make sure Italy is on your list of places to explore!”
For more on Italy, check out Flo’s posts here!
5. Kyoto – James of One Lost Traveller
“Kyoto is one of the places that change colors with the seasons. During spring, the area is pink from the cherry blossoms blooming, but during fall is when the magic really happens and everything changes. The leaves of the trees in Kyoto change from green to golden yellows and deep reds – creating that mystical, studio Ghibli atmosphere that will both surprise and enchant you. Viewing these beautiful colors at temples will bring a sense of calm and a zen-like mood, with November time being the best time to see these colors before winter sets in.”
6. Paris- Sierra from Passport Voyager
“Paris is an absolutely dreamy place to be in any season, but it’s especially perfect in the cooler months, because you can layer up and embrace your true inner Parisian. There’s not much better than being bundled up in a warm coat and a cozy scarf, sitting at a French café sipping on hot coffee. Bonus points for a warm croissant! Being able to avoid the usual tourist season crowds and navigate freely around the city makes you feel more like a local. It provides such an authentic Paris experience and truly makes exploring the city even more delightful!”
7. San Francisco – Caroline from Pictures and Words Blog
“Most people flock to San Francisco in the summer, but discover that the Mark Twain quote “the coldest winter I’ve ever spent was a summer in San Francisco” holds true – it tends to get chilly and foggy. Locals joke that San Francisco gets its real summer in the fall – we get an Indian Summer in September and October, and we enjoy our warmer days while the rest of the country starts to cool down. Perfect time to spend time outdoors – soak up the sunshine and hang out in Dolores Park or Alamo Square, explore Golden Gate Park, or do some urban hiking in the Presidio or at Lands End. You can even cross the bridge and explore the Marin Headlands. Or, if you want to take in some fall foliage, you can take a day trip out to Wine Country, which is absolutely spectacular in the fall.”
For more on San Francisco, check out Caroline’s post here!
8. Iceland – Nicki of Eat Travel Drink
“Iceland is truly magical to visit all year round, but for fall I would argue is the best time to visit. The weather is still hovering around 50 Degrees Celcius and the snow hasn’t quite fallen just yet. Summer has just come to a close and darkness comes back to the skies at night, making way for opportunities to see the Northern Lights. No matter what you decide to do in Iceland, there will be no shortage of natures magic. From waterfalls, Glaciers, National Parks, the splitting of the tectonic plates, hot springs, and seeing the beautiful landscapes – this trip will be a vacation not only for the soul but for the eyes.”
For more on Iceland, check Nicki’s post here!
9. Bavaria – Melissa of Wit and Folly
“Story-book castles and fairytale dreams are brought to life in the charming and medieval towns that dot the Romantic Road of south central Germany. Rich in history, the Romantic Road is a 220- mile drive that is specifically known for its castles, abbeys and churches, tucked away amidst rolling hills and quaint villages. And what better time to take a trip along this historic road than in Autumn, when the leaves show their most brilliant golden hues, and the air is both crisp and cozy.
Visiting Bavaria, Germany in the fall may be one of the best kept secrets: it’s their shoulder season, which means that the large influx of tourists during the summer have just about disappeared, and accommodations are usually much cheaper. What’s more, the weather, though cooler, tends to be mild, and there’s nothing more magical than seeing the fall colors against the medieval architecture and enchanting castles.
Pictured here is one of the most well known castles (if not the most famous) in all of Europe, sitting majestically among the trees. And I’m quite partial to think that Neuschwanstein Castle, although beautiful and mystical all year round, may be at its finest when surrounded by the yellow, gold and orange hues of Autumn.”
10. New England – Amy of Two Drifters
“New England is an amazing fall destination. In this part of the USA, the fall foliage is unlike anywhere else, especially in northern New England a.k.a. Maine Vermont and New Hampshire. Every year in September and October the Reds, oranges, and golds start to paint the hills. Mid October is usually when the foliage hits its peak and this insane burst of the best color lasts just a few days.
Fall starts out with apple picking in one of many New England orchards. You can pick your own apples and then make a delicious pie but you should also try local apple cider donuts OMG. Cider is also a must. Fall in New England is also perfect for hiking as the weather is crisp and gorgeous. After your hike, you can sit by a fire and curl up in a door adorable plaid blanket like something out of an Instagram photo. Tres romantique!”
For more on New England, check out Amy’s post here!
11. Rotterdam – Lisanne from Chapter Travel
“In the Netherlands we have something we call “nazomer” or “aftersummer” in fall, meaning that even though the summer is officially over, the weather can still be very pleasant. Especially in recent years the weather is even better after the summer than actually during the summer. Most tourists all go to Amsterdam, but why not give Rotterdam a chance?
This second biggest city is gaining more and more popularity and was recently named the coolest city in the Netherlands by Huffington Post. The best part is that it isn’t so crazy busy as Amsterdam, so there won’t be hundred other tourists in your photos. Rotterdam has something for everyone, whether you are a big foodie, architecture lover or party goer! Especially the architecture in Rotterdam is what makes this city unique in the Netherlands.”
For more on Rotterdamn, check out Lisanne’s post here!
12. Cotswolds – Katy from Untold Morsels
“Visit the Cotswolds in fall for idyllic English countryside and quaint villages that transport you back to simpler times. Crisp mornings fold into sun drenched days and it is the best time to wander across fields enjoying the rolling green hills and changing leaves. Stop in country pubs and browse antique shops along the way. There’s no need to rush on your romantic Cotswolds trip.”
For more on Cotswolds, check out Katy’s post here!
13. New York City – Bassam & Lena of Happily Ever Adventures
“Some people relate fall with pumpkin spice lattes, we relate fall with New York City. We live in Los Angeles where we don’t really get much of seasons. As soon as September rolls around, we start dreaming of long walks in Central Park where we can watch the leaves change colors. NYC fall weather isn’t too cold, just a light cozy coat and boots are enough to keep you warm and the air is pleasant for long walks around the city. The Christmas Markets and decorations start getting set up around Thanksgiving, so you can get all the Christmasy feels without the overly cold weather. Fall is just the absolute perfect and most magical time to visit NYC!”
Nicki Sunderland (@eatlivetraveldr) says
Lena this is a fabulous post. All the photos are so dreamy!
happilyeveradventures says
Thanks, Nicki! I’m so glad you enjoyed it! I absolutely loved your contribution. We are DYING to go Iceland and even more so now!
Collette says
What an amazing list of fall destinations! Now I want to hop on a plane!
happilyeveradventures says
Us too!! But what else is new, haha! Thanks for your lovely contribution!
Nicola says
Great post, great pics! So many wonderlust places! @backpackingkiwis
happilyeveradventures says
So many amazing places and so little time! We want to go to all of these, but will probably only get 2 or 3 in this year!
Stephanie says
Love the fall!! From the crisp fresh air to the brilliant colourful foliage! And if I were to add another location it would be Ontario, Canada’s Muskoka region. It’s full of charming small towns, winding and scenic roads, and epic fall foliage!
happilyeveradventures says
Ooh thank you for the recommendation! We’ve been wanting to go to Ontario and now we know fall would be the best time! I just wish fall were longer, there are so many places we want to go!
Mae-Gene says
Fall is my favourite time of year, so I absolutely loved this post! I live in Boston, so can definitely testify that New England is seriously amazing this time of year. I’m heading to Iceland later this month too, I had no idea it would be so nice during fall! Love the travel ideas from this post 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
It’s our favorite time of the year, it just ends too quickly! I’m SO excited for you that you’re going to Iceland! Ah! Can’t wait to live vicariously through you!
Taryn says
Omg that Kyoto photo is sooo gorgeous. I want it for my phone wallpaper 🙂
The Iceland advice is also super helpful. I’ve been to Iceland in both June and January but I think the next time I go will have to be fall to miss some of the crowds and hopefully hike in the highlands.
happilyeveradventures says
Isn’t it? Loved it! We’ve been trying to figure out when to go to Iceland and now we are thinking fall! Love that you’ve been twice!
Michelle | michwanderlust says
Such an entertaining read – it was really interesting to see how everyone has different tastes! That’s what makes the world so interesting, isn’t it? The choice of San Francisco surprised me – I’ve been there in November and I was freezing! But then again, I’m from a tropical country so I freeze as easily as coconut oil.
On my list for fall travel is Shenandoah National Park! I’ve been there in summer, and can only imagine how amazing it’d look in fall colours!
happilyeveradventures says
Totally an eclectic list! I loved seeing where everyone chose! Thank you so much for your rec! I’ll add it to my never ending list!
Samantha O'Brochta says
Fall is the best season and these are all amazing places to go during autumn 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
Fall is never long enough to go to all the places I want to go!
Bri says
I basically want to go everywhere in the fall time (it’s my favorite season), but especially New England. I grew up hearing magically stories about it Vermont in the fall and the spookiness of Salem, MA and have wanted to go ever since. Beautiful photos!! I can’t wait until the leaves start changing colors 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
New England has been on my fall list for a long long time! Hope to make it this year or next!
Lisanne says
I love reading all the advice! Thanks for including mine 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
Thanks for the great rec!
amar rathore says
post brings back memories! I visited here as a teen and loved exploring
happilyeveradventures says
Nice! Which place?
Bernadette Jackson says
My favourite season, and you tempt me with so many wonderful places. Last year, we were enjoying record-breaking heat in Tennessee and then Mississippi. This year’s got space for more adventures, and I see plenty of options to consider. Time to get planning!
happilyeveradventures says
Fall travel is my favorite! Where are you thinking of going?
ARIANA DEL RIO says
I REALLY LOVE THE VARIETY OF PLACES CHOSEN. I HAVE BEEN WANTING TO GO BACK AND SEE MORE OF HOLLAND, SO IT’S GREAT THAT ROTTERDAM AND AMSTERDAM WERE ON THIS LIST. HOWEVER, THE PHOTO OF OREGON IS STUNNING. MAKES ME REALLY GET THE FALL FEELS! SAVED THIS FOR MY PLANNING!
happilyeveradventures says
We are so excited to visit the Netherlands! I agree, love all the pics but the Oregon one just exudes fall dreaminess.
Chandrika says
Oh my gosh! Such a visually appealing post. Loved reading about all the places too. Tons of inspiration in this one post 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
Soo full of wanderlust now after putting together the post, even more than usual!
Ana Ro says
Timeless destinations! I would so much want to go to all those places this fall already, but it seems quite impossible. London is on the list though, and Turkey.
Oregon pictures is just beautiful. Makes you happy about the fall!
happilyeveradventures says
I want to go to all of them too! I wish fall was longer!
Sara says
Fall is my absolute favorite season for travel. The colors are gorgeous and the weather makes for perfect sightseeing. These spots are great recommendations.
happilyeveradventures says
Mine too! Almost every city is so dreamy in the fall! And we just loving traveling during shoulder season.
Siarra | Wander.Focus.Love says
Each photo pulls me in–I want to visit every place! But Oregon caught my eye immediately….can’t wait to see those colors with my own eyes.
happilyeveradventures says
Same here! Such an iconic fall shot!
Zenbabytravel says
Some great suggestions & pics! I love Amalfi coast in October – do not forget off the beaten track islands like Procida & Ischia (we wrote about in here: https://zenbabytravel.com/2017/06/29/island-hopping-italian-holidays-innamorati-di-procida-ischia/); Paris & London – of course, used to be based in first and living for 15 years in the latter; Cotswolds and Amsterdam. Thanks for sharing!
happilyeveradventures says
Great post, thanks for sharing! We are going to Paris next month and I can’t wait!
Kristine Li says
Wonderful autumn post! Japan is the only country I’ve ever truly seen autumn colors in and it totally blew me away. I hope to be able to travel to U.S for autumn in the wilderness next time!
happilyeveradventures says
I would love to visit Japan in the fall and spring! Both times of year seem so dreamy!
lexie says
I enjoyed reading this wonderful experiences of other travel bloggers, I would personally pick Italy for this fall 🙂 love you post!
happilyeveradventures says
Ooh Italy is so high on our list!
Becky says
Lovely destinations! I’d love going to all of these places one day, there are so many cities to see! 🙂
happilyeveradventures says
So many places and so little time! We want to go everywhere!
Tracy says
Love all of these destinations and loved seeing NYC and New England on the list!
happilyeveradventures says
We were so happy to see how many USA destinations are on the list! Much easier for us to get to than Europe!