Fall in Europe: 5 Dreamy Destinations You Need to Visit This Autumn
As the crowds of summer fade and the crisp air of autumn settles in, Europe transforms into a picturesque wonderland of golden foliage, cozy cafés, and cultural festivals. Fall is one of the most underrated seasons to travel the continent—offering cooler temperatures, fewer tourists, and often lower prices. Whether you’re seeking historic charm, outdoor adventures, or foodie indulgence, these five European destinations are perfect for your fall getaway.
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1. Bavaria, Germany
Best for: Castles, beer festivals, and scenic road trips
Bavaria is a dream in the fall, with rolling hills and forests turning brilliant shades of red and orange. The famous Romantic Road winds through storybook towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Dinkelsbühl, offering enchanting views and cozy inns.
Of course, no fall trip to Bavaria is complete without experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich. Running from mid-September to the first weekend in October, this iconic festival features lively music, traditional German fare, and world-renowned beer tents.
Must-Try Foods in Bavaria:
🍗 Hendl & Brezn at Oktoberfest (Munich): Roast chicken and giant pretzels are festival staples, especially when paired with a Maß of local beer.
🍰 Café Luitpold (Munich): Indulge in a slice of Prinzregententorte, a multi-layered chocolate and buttercream cake.
🍖 Gasthof Goldener Hirsch (Rothenburg ob der Tauber): Feast on classic Sauerbraten (marinated beef) served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.
2. Tuscany, Italy
Best for: Wine harvests, art, and rolling countryside
Tuscany in autumn is a feast for the senses. The grape harvest is in full swing from late September through October, making it a fantastic time for wine tastings and vineyard tours. Towns like Chianti, Montepulciano, and Montalcino offer rich reds and beautiful views of terraced hills glowing in fall hues.
In addition to wine, Tuscany boasts seasonal truffle festivals and hearty, farm-fresh cuisine. It’s the ideal time to explore cities like Florence and Siena without the heavy crowds. Cooler weather makes it more enjoyable to stroll through Renaissance streets, take in Michelangelo’s David, or climb the Duomo for panoramic views.
Must-Try Foods in Tuscany:
🍷 Antinori nel Chianti Classico (Chianti): Tour this modern winery and savor dishes like wild boar pappardelle with a glass of Chianti Classico.
🧀 La Prosciutteria (Florence): Snack on cured meats, local cheeses, and crusty bread with a view of Florence’s historic center.
🍄 Sagra del Tartufo (San Miniato): Celebrate truffle season with dishes like tagliolini al tartufo or truffle-infused pecorino at this fall food festival.
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3. Budapest, Hungary
Best for: Budget-friendly luxury and spa culture
Budapest is one of Europe’s most affordable and visually stunning capitals—and in fall, the city glows. Enjoy brisk walks along the Danube as the foliage lines the banks, or visit one of the many thermal baths like Széchenyi or Gellért to soak in warm waters beneath crisp autumn skies.
Fall is also a great time to enjoy Budapest’s café culture and famous ruin bars. Don’t miss the local food scene, where hearty comfort dishes keep you warm as temperatures drop.
Must-Try Foods in Budapest:
🍲 Menza (Liszt Ferenc Square): Sample classic Hungarian goulash and seasonal soups in a trendy, retro-chic setting.
🍰 Ruszwurm Cukrászda (Buda Castle): Treat yourself to creamy krémes (custard slice) in one of the city’s oldest cafés.
🍖 Paprika Vendéglő: Cozy up with chicken paprikash and homemade nokedli (dumplings) at this traditional Hungarian eatery.
4. Seville, Spain
Best for: Late-season warmth and rich cultural experiences
While northern Europe cools down, southern Spain continues to bask in sunshine well into November. Seville, in particular, is a fantastic destination for fall. By October, the intense summer heat has eased, making it the perfect time to explore the city’s Moorish palaces, cobbled streets, and flamenco venues.
Visit the Alcázar of Seville, a Game of Thrones filming location, or climb the Giralda bell tower for sweeping views of the city. Enjoy traditional tapas under orange trees in the charming Santa Cruz district, and take in a fiery flamenco performance for a truly local experience.
Must-Try Foods in Seville:
🥬 El Rinconcillo: The city’s oldest tapas bar (since 1670) serves iconic dishes like espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas).
🐙 La Brunilda Tapas: A favorite with locals and visitors alike—don’t miss the grilled octopus or Iberian pork cheeks.
🍮 La Campana Pastelería: Satisfy your sweet tooth with tocino de cielo, a rich egg custard dessert, paired with coffee.
5. Ljubljana & Lake Bled, Slovenia
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Best for: Hidden gem vibes and outdoor beauty
If you're looking for a lesser-known destination with big rewards, Slovenia is your ticket. Ljubljana, the capital, is charming and easy to explore on foot. In fall, its leafy riverbanks and outdoor cafés take on a romantic, golden glow.
Just an hour away lies Lake Bled, a fairytale lake complete with a cliffside castle and a tiny island church. In autumn, the surrounding Julian Alps are ablaze with color, making it an ideal time for hiking or simply relaxing in a lakeside chalet.
Must-Try Foods in Slovenia:
🍴 JB Restaurant (Ljubljana): One of the country’s top fine-dining experiences, featuring seasonal Slovenian cuisine and creative tasting menus.
🍰 Hotel Park Café (Lake Bled): Home of the original Bled cream cake, a flaky, custardy dessert that’s perfect with coffee and lake views.
🍲 Gostilna Sokol (Ljubljana): Cozy tavern-style dining with traditional fare like venison stew and wild mushroom soup in a bread bowl.
Ready to Fall in Love with Europe?
At People Mover Travel, we specialize in curating personalized European getaways that match your style, budget, and travel dreams. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or just in need of a cozy escape, we’ll help you plan a seamless and memorable fall adventure.
🍂 Let’s start planning your autumn escape today! Reach out to your People Mover Travel advisor and get ready to experience Europe at its most magical.