Autumn in Europe: 17 Underrated Places to Visit This Season

Autumn in Europe doesn’t get enough attention, yet it often turns out to be the easiest time to travel across the continent. The summer crowds start to fade, cooler temperatures make long days of exploring more comfortable, and cities feel a bit more local again. If you’re planning a trip around September, October, or even early November, this is when many places hit that sweet spot between good weather, fewer tourists, and plenty going on.

This guide takes a slightly different angle on Europe’s autumn destinations. Instead of repeating the same well-known spots, this collaborative post features other travel bloggers sharing places they’ve experienced firsthand. The result is a mix of destinations that don’t always show up in typical “best autumn cities in Europe” lists.

Autumn in many of these places means better prices, more availability, and a slower pace overall. It’s also when local life feels more visible again. You’ll come across seasonal menus, smaller food festivals, and markets that reflect what’s actually happening in each place at that moment. In some regions, it’s harvest time; in others, it’s the beginning of cultural events and city life picking up again after the summer lull.

Another reason to consider this season is the flexibility it offers. Whether you’re after scenic landscapes, walkable cities, or even planning a loose autumn in Europe itinerary, you can move between destinations without dealing with peak-season logistics, and even spontaneous day trips become easier to plan.

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Lesser-known places for autumn in Europe

Tbilisi, Georgia

If you’re planning a fall in Europe, Tbilisi stands out as a perfect place to slow down and experience the season without the crowds of more popular capitals. The drop from summer heat to cooler temperatures makes it much easier to explore the city on foot, whether you’re walking through Old Town streets or heading up to viewpoints for wide city views.

Parks, hills, and courtyards start turning shades of yellow and orange, so if you enjoy a city with visible fall foliage, this is one of the best times to be here.

September and October are centered around Rtveli, the grape harvest, which is one of the most hands-on experiences you can have during a trip to Georgia. You can join harvest experiences through my friends and partners at Eat This! Tours (use code RFD5 for 5% off).

When considering where to go in Europe in October, Tbilisi offers mild weather and hosts Tbilisoba, a lively festival that fills central areas with local food, music, and celebrations. While major wine festivals peak in spring, you can still enjoy a day trip to the Gurjaani wine festival in the first days of October.

Tbilisi restaurants are beginning to shift to seasonal menus, and cultural life is returning as theaters and opera venues reopen after summer. It’s also a great time to include a sulfur bath visit—much more enjoyable once the temperatures drop.

Kyrenia, Cyprus

For warm places in Europe in October, look into Kyrenia (Girne) in Northern Cyprus, which feels like an extended summer. Daytime temperatures can reach around 28°C (about 82°F), which is warm enough for light clothes like T-shirts or dresses, even late in the season.

The city sits along the Mediterranean Sea, and while the water can still be swimmable on warmer days, it’s often more comfortable for coastal walks rather than long beach time.

Kyrenia itself is compact and easy to explore. The harbor is the focal point, lined with restaurants and views of Kyrenia Castle, which you can visit for a look into the area’s history. A short drive takes you up to St. Hilarion Castle, set high in the mountains with wide views over the coastline.

Remember that this is the Turkish-controlled side of Cyprus, and the local currency is the Turkish lira.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

If you’re after the most beautiful autumn in Europe, Plitvice Lakes National Park is hard to beat. This is where you get a mix of bright fall foliage and a network of cascading waterfalls, all connected by wooden walkways that make it easy to explore. The contrast between turquoise lakes and autumn colors is what makes this place stand out during the season.

Yes, it’s one of Croatia’s most popular destinations—but autumn changes the experience. Crowds are noticeably smaller compared to summer, entrance fees are lower, and the overall pace feels much more relaxed. You can actually stop, take photos, and enjoy the scenery without constantly moving along with tour groups.

Getting here is easy. You can plan a day trip from either Zagreb or Split, or stay overnight in one of the hotels located within or near the park if you want an early start.

Poznan, Poland

Poznań is one of the best autumn cities in Europe, with a balance of colorful architecture, walkable streets, and a local atmosphere that’s easy to settle into. While Poland does get quite cold later in the season, mid-autumn is a great time to visit—temperatures are still mild, and you’ll usually be comfortable with just a light jacket or coat.

The city centers around its Old Market Square, lined with colorful townhouses and cafés. Around noon, you can catch the mechanical goats appearing on the clock tower of the Town Hall—one of Poznań’s small but well-known traditions. From there, it’s easy to walk to Ostrów Tumski, the oldest part of the city, or head out to green areas like Citadel Park, which is especially nice with autumn colors.

There are plenty of things to do beyond sightseeing, from museums to relaxed café stops. It’s also a good place to try Polish cuisine—autumn is when heartier, seasonal dishes start appearing more often.

Assisi, Italy

Perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio in Umbria, Assisi is one of Italy’s most atmospheric historic towns. This is a very popular tourist destination in Umbria, especially for devotees of Saint Francis of Assisi: it can get particularly crowded during the summer months. Autumn is a better time to visit, when temperatures are mild, the surrounding countryside turns golden, and the town prepares for the celebrations of Francis of Assisi.

The highlight is 4 October, the saint’s feast day. Assisi hosts several days of religious ceremonies, processions, and events centered around the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, where the main mass and the lighting of the traditional votive lamp take place.

Outside the festivities, Assisi is a very interesting place to visit. Other than the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, famous for its beautiful frescoes, you should not miss San Rufino’s Cathedral (the oldest church in Assisi) and Santa Chiara Basilica, which overlooks one of the most beautiful squares in town, and a spacious terrace that offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.

The town has strong Roman roots, and among the most famous attractions in Assisi are a Roman Domus and the Temple of Minerva (now a church). Finally, walk all the way to Rocca Maggiore, a fortress that dominates the town and from where you can enjoy impressive views.

You can visit Assisi on a day trip from Perugia, but there are enough sights to spend a weekend. Nun Assisi Relais & Spa Museum offers a unique stay inside a restored historic monastery with a spa built around ancient Roman structures. You can try local sweets and pastries at Bar Sensi, whereas Porcellino Divino is a great spot for an easygoing lunch.

Recommended by Stricktly Italy

Berat, Albania

Berat is one of the best places to go in Europe in October for wine enthusiasts as it hosts a 3-day festival called Wine and Stories of Berat, celebrating the country’s traditional viticulture.  

Wineries from across Albania set up booths in the main square offering tastings, selling bottles, and answering questions. There are wine competitions, live music, a children’s carousel, and food. Note that during the daytime, a few booths might be open, and the real festive atmosphere with music and food starts after dark.

Albania has a long-established wine culture with many indigenous grapes, giving its wines a unique taste and body.  Most vineyards are family-operated and small, with a preference for organic farming.  Not only is Berat in the heart of wine country, but it is also the most beautiful city in Albania.

Nicknamed the City of Thousand Windows, Berat is worth visiting, even if you’re not a wine aficionado.  The UNESCO-listed old town is the best-preserved in Albania, with cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era homes, Byzantine churches, and one of the oldest living castles in Europe.

Recommended by Albania Voyagers

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The beautiful Ljubljana is a perfect European fall trip for families, couples, and solo travelers with its super walkable city center full of cute streets, river views, and greenery that transforms into a beautiful autumnal sight. Unlike many other capitals, it is still not so explored by tourists.

Some of the best things to do here, in addition to wandering through the cobblestone streets, are to hike up the hill to Ljubljana Castle or take the funicular to get there. The Dragon Bridge and the Tivoli Gardens are also worth a visit.

Besides its stunning architecture, which makes it a fairytale destination, it also offers the chance to take a few day trips to enjoy the beautiful scenery nearby. Hiking in Lake Bohinj and touring the famous Lake Bled are among the most popular. If you have a few more days, get your hiking boots on and hit the trails at the nearby Triglav National Park.

Recommended by Planet of Adventures

Lapland, Finland

When thinking of where to go in autumn in Europe, Finland won’t be the first to come to mind because of its reputation as a winter wonderland. But it will win your heart with its amazing fall colors. The season starts quite early up north; from August onward, the yellows, oranges, and reds will dominate Lapland’s tundra for about three months.

To appreciate what Finland has to offer in autumn, hike in some of its national parks such as Koli, Oulanka, or Pallas-Yllästunturi. Each offers many options for day or even multi-day hikes, such as Hetta to Pallas or the Karhunkierros Trail, to mention two.

Alternatively, visit Kilpisjärvi, the village tucked into the far north-western corner of Finland, squeezed between Sweden and Norway. The area is home to Finland’s highest mountains, including Saana Fell, a most recognizable national landmark that rises directly above the village.

Your autumn visit wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a sauna. Ensure to have your first experience in a wood-burning sauna, and cool down in a lake afterward for an authentic Finnish experience.

Recommended by Stunning Outdoors

Oradea, Romania

In Western Romania, close to the border with Hungary, you’ll find Oradea – a charming city which can easily be a year-round destination. But fall has some advantages.

Firstly, it’s shoulder season, and that means lower prices for accommodation and transportation. You may fly directly or to Budapest (HU) or Timisoara (RO), and continue by land.

While quite a popular city break destination for Romanians, Oradea remains an undiscovered gem for foreigners. You’ll find here romantic baroque architecture from the Austro-Hungarian Empire, a renovated fortress, plenty of pedestrian streets, and cozy cafes. Plus, Baile Felix, a well-known thermal spa resort, is nearby.

Fall in Oradea can bring warm, sunny days or cold, wet ones. So, layers should be your friend. But regardless of the weather, there’s plenty to do. Check out the “Black Eagle” Passage, with its restaurants and shops. Visit the fortress or walk along Calea Republicii to see the Art Nouveau buildings and check out the cafes.

As a bonus, if you’re an Argentine Tango dancer, you can even attend classes or a milonga.

Recommended by Looknwalk.info

Ohrid, North Macedonia

If you’re looking for a lesser-known place in Europe for an autumn vacation, Ohrid is an easy pick. By this time, the summer crowds have cleared out, and the weather is cooler, which makes it much more comfortable to explore. The trees around Lake Ohrid start changing color, and the lake feels calmer, so you can actually slow down and take it in.

You can spend your time walking through the old town, stopping at churches like St. John at Kaneo and St. Sophia, or heading up to Samuel’s Fortress for a view over the lake and town. A walk along the lakefront is simple but worth it, especially in the evening.

You can also take a short boat ride on the lake, visit the ancient theater, or explore small local cafés and try Macedonian food. If you have extra time, a trip to the nearby Monastery of Saint Naum is a good addition.

Carry a light jacket or layers. It can feel warm in the afternoon but cooler in the mornings and evenings. Also, try to stay near the old town so you can walk everywhere.

Recommended by Continent Hop

Aosta Valley, Italy

Aosta Valley may be Italy’s smallest and least populated region, but it’s definitely one of the most scenic, with never-ending natural landscapes, charming fortresses and castles, and adorable Alpine hamlets.

It’s also a great fall destination, thanks to fewer crowds, foliage colors, and seasonal events such as the Grape Festival in Chambave, the Honey Festival in Châtillon, and the regional food festival Marché au Fort at the stunning Fort of Bard.

Other than seasonal activities, there’s so much to do and see in the underrated region of Aosta Valley, from savoring Mont Blanc views at the Skyway Monte Bianco cable car and relishing the scenery at the Gran Paradiso National Park to marveling at castellos like Fenis and Savoia and visiting cozy towns like Etroubles and Courmayeur.

It’s also worth trying local wines and hearty food like polenta with fontina cheese, which has been produced in the region for over 1,000 years.

As for where to stay in Aosta Valley, it all depends on your preferences, but staying in a town like the tranquil Saint Pierre, which is near the main road and central, lets you explore a different part of the region each day.

Recommended by My Path in the World

Heidelberg, Germany

For a beautiful autumn destination in Europe that still feels a little under the tourist radar, Heidelberg is a great choice! Located on the banks of the Neckar River, it is effortlessly lovely in the season, with golden trees, a fairytale old town to explore, and a castle perched high on the hill.

One of the best things to do is take a boat trip along the Neckar to Neckarsteinach, where picturesque autumn-colored forests and castle ruins line the riverbanks. It is one of the best European cities to visit in October, with the best autumn colors.

For a truly unique perspective, walk up to Heidelberg Castle to look down over the roofs of the old town and the River stretching beyond, with the surrounding lush green hills turned golden. Try to go early in the morning or late afternoon for the softest light over the river.

If you are traveling solo, it is also a perfect destination to travel alone in Europe, because it feels so peaceful, safe, and easy to explore at your own pace!

Recommended by Where’s Katie Now

Grenoble, France

Nestled at the bottom of the mountains and nicknamed the capital of the French Alps, Grenoble has a particular savor when autumn comes. Being relatively close to nature, whether by the squares in town or the summits around, the third season of the year gives you an explosion of colors.

Trees put on a flaming foliage as the whole town tilts towards the new season. With mild temperatures and pleasant weather, it is the perfect time to explore the surrounding mountains and witness incredible changes in nature.

But, if you prefer to stay and discover the city, here are some of the best things to do in Grenoble for 2 days. You can climb to the Bastille to enjoy the view, try the local delicacies (rissole, gratin de raviole, gratin dauphinois, local cheese), wander through the beautiful Saint-Laurent neighborhood, or learn about the local history at the Dauphinois museum.

To fully enjoy the city, rent a yellow city bike at the MetroVélo station at the train station. Prices start at 5 EUR per person per day. It is the best way to get around Grenoble and to make the most out of your stay in the fabulous French town.

Recommended by Slow Sight Soul

Laconi, Italy

If you visit Sardinia in October, make sure to go to Laconi. This small town is located in the hills of central Sardinia, between the provinces of Oristano and Nuoro, and about 70 km north of Cagliari.

Autumn is one of the best times to visit. Temperatures are mild, the surrounding countryside turns green again after the summer heat, and Aymerich Park is one of the few places in Sardinia that offers a wonderful foliage experience.

This is a large historic park with streams, small waterfalls, and wooded paths, where you can find the ruins of Aymerich Castle and views over the Sarcidano hills.

Another interesting place to visit in Laconi is the Menhir Museum, which has an exhibition of prehistoric statues and archaeological finds from central Sardinia.

There are literally three restaurants, but all excellent. La Cascata is an unassuming pizzeria, but its pizza is gourmet-style and delicious. Sa Spillunca is a pub-style kind of place with lots of Sardinian craft beers and excellent local dishes. Make sure to add a touch of truffle to your dishes: Laconi is famous for that.

Finally, the town is a popular pilgrimage place in Sardinia because it is the birthplace of Saint Ignazio of Laconi. You can visit the small house where he grew up, and a few other places of remembrance.

You can stay in the famous boutique hotel called Baita Maore just outside of town, or at this lovely guesthouse in the center of town.

Recommended by Stricktly Sardinia

Parauta, Spain

One of the most charming places to visit in Malaga in autumn is Parauta. This village, nestled in the mountains, as well as its neighboring villages, are famous for their hiking trails. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the area, with trees turning yellow and brown, making it one of the best times to visit, particularly from late October to mid-November.

A day trip to Parauta is possible from Malaga city or other towns on the Costa del Sol, like Marbella. Although it doesn’t have sights per se, walking around its streets is an experience. You can see beautiful white-painted houses decorated with plants, take pictures in photo spots like the “Bésame in Parauta” bench, and take in the laid-back atmosphere.

Once you have explored the village, head to the start of the El Bosque Encantado hiking trail. It’s an easy walk with wooden sculptures of fairies, gnomes, and other creatures along the way.

This hiking trail gets very busy on weekends, as families with children come to enjoy their weekend. Therefore, plan your visit for weekdays if possible.

Recommended by My Little World of Travelling

Trieste, Italy

Trieste is a beguiling city to visit in autumn if you enjoy sailing. It is one of the best cities in Europe in October, as it hosts the annual Barcelona sailing regatta. You can roam the streets on the weekend to enjoy the city’s food festivals, with truffles and chestnuts being the highlights.

Apart from the sailing, Trieste is famous for its Roman ruins, Habsburg grandeur, and a dramatic seafront setting on the Adriatic. Begin your tour at the Canal Grade, which was built in the 1700s to bring ships into the historic center.

The city also has gorgeous Art Nouveau buildings. Known locally as “Liberty style,” this architecture features floral ironwork, soft curves, and decorative facades. Take a self-guided architectural walking tour along Via San Nicolo and Viale XX Settembre. The most famous building is the Casa Bartoli. Along your walk, you’ll see Irish author James Joyce’s bronze statue.

You’ll also want to visit the Roman ruins. Built in the 1st century AD, Teatro Romano could hold up to 5,000 spectators. Save time for an al fresco dinner at a restaurant along the Canal Grande. You can watch an impromptu water hockey match as you eat your pizza.

Recommended by Female Solo Trek

How to plan a trip for autumn in Europe

When planning a trip to Europe in autumn, timing and flexibility make a big difference. The season usually runs from September through November, but the experience can vary a lot depending on where you go.

Early autumn (September) still feels close to summer in many places, while October in Europe is when you start getting fall colors, cooler air, and a more defined seasonal atmosphere. November is quieter, with fewer crowds, but also shorter days and a higher chance of rain.

When thinking about autumn in Europe, it helps to decide what kind of trip you want to take. If you’re after foliage and scenic landscapes, mid to late October is usually the best window. If you prefer milder weather and longer days, aim for September or early October. For city-focused trips, most destinations remain active year-round, especially as cultural events and local life pick up again after summer.

Another factor to consider is the weather. Southern destinations can still feel warm well into October, while Central and Northern Europe cool down much faster. This also makes it easier to build a flexible Europe autumn itinerary, whether you’re planning a multi-country trip or focusing on one at a slower pace.

Transport and accommodation are generally easier to manage during this period. Prices tend to drop after peak summer, and you’ll have more options when booking trains, flights, or hotels.

Once you’ve figured out your trip route, it’s worth sorting out a few practical details in advance to keep things smooth on the ground.

For flights, I usually rely on Skyscanner to compare options. One feature I use all the time is the “flexible dates” view—it shows you the cheapest days for the entire month, which is especially helpful when planning fall Europe getaways where prices can vary quite a bit.

Getting from the airport to your accommodation is one of those small things that makes a big difference after a flight. Booking a transfer in advance with Welcome Pickups keeps things simple, especially if you’re arriving late or carrying luggage. And since delays still happen, it is useful to have AirHelp in mind if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed.

To stay connected, I prefer using an eSIM rather than dealing with local SIM cards. Both Airalo and Holafly (get 5% off with the REDFEDORADIARY code) let you activate data as soon as you land, which is especially useful when moving between countries. For other eSIM options, check out my detailed eSIM for travel guide, which lists others I personally have tested and use from time to time.

If your itinerary includes smaller towns or more remote areas—especially for scenic drives during peak foliage—consider renting a car. Platforms like DiscoverCars and Localrent make it easy to compare prices and find options across different regions.

Lastly, don’t overlook insurance. I don’t travel anywhere without coverage through providers like Heymondo (with a 5% discount already applied), which gives you peace of mind if something unexpected comes up.

What to wear in autumn in Europe (quick tips)

Packing for Europe fall is all about layers. The biggest thing to keep in mind is how variable autumn temperatures can be throughout the day. Mornings and evenings can feel quite cool, while afternoons (especially in Southern Europe) may still be warm.

Focus on pieces you can easily add or remove: light sweaters, long-sleeve tops, and a medium-weight jacket work well. A compact rain jacket is also worth packing, as occasional rain is common in many regions.

Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. You’ll likely spend a lot of time walking, and uneven streets or cobblestones can get tiring quickly. Go for something supportive that you’ve already worn in rather than brand-new shoes.

For luggage, keep things practical. If you’re moving between destinations, a carry-on suitcase or a travel backpack is usually enough. Brands like Osprey are a solid option for multi-city trips. For day-to-day exploring, having a smaller bag helps—something lightweight like a daypack from Driibe makes it easier to carry essentials without feeling weighed down.

Round things out with a few basics: sunglasses, a scarf for extra warmth, a fedora hat for those gorgeous city photos, and a reusable water bottle.

Autumn in Europe FAQs