Autumn is a wonderful time for traveling in Europe for several reasons. Milder weather and fewer crowds are just some of them. Discover even more reasons why it's a good idea to travel in autumn here.
Whether you're a fan of picturesque landscapes, charming cities, or hiking experiences, here is a list of five unforgettable European destinations to inspire your next adventure.
Sintra, Portugal
For a romantic autumn escape, choose Sintra. Known for its palaces, castles, and lush gardens, Sintra becomes even more enchanting in the autumn months. It is located just a short drive from Lisbon.
The cooler autumn weather makes it perfect for exploring the colourful Pena Palace, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and the medieval Moorish Castle.
Enjoy traditional dishes made from chestnuts and mushrooms, along with the region's famous pastries. Pair your meal with a local wine or the sweet Ginja liqueur.
The surrounding Sintra-Cascais Natural Park offers excellent trails for all the hiking lovers that are particularly beautiful in autumn.
Nearest airport: Lisbon Airport
Copenhagen, Denmark
We think Copenhagen is one of the best places to visit in Europe in October – the late summer crowds will have gone and it’s too early to be truly cold. In November weather will be significantly cooler, dropping even to 5° Celsius.
Copenhagen's parks and gardens are transformed into a stunning display of autumn colours. You can think about celebrating Halloween in the Tivoli Gardens when the theme park is transformed into a spooky wonderland.
The golden autumn light adds a special charm to city’s architecture and the historic buildings of the old center. Don’t forget to visit Torvehallerne market for seasonal local produce, mulled wine, and hot chocolate!
Nearest airport: Copenhagen Airport
Ljubljana – Copenhagen from 86 €
Venice – Copenhagen from 118 €
Milan Malpensa – Copenhagen from 79 €
Milan Bergamo – Copenhagen from 83 €
Zagreb – Copenhagen from 143 €
Gozo, Malta
Gozo is an island in the Maltese archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. It is rich in history, with landmarks such as the Ggantija Temples (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Citadel in Victoria.
The island's natural beauty is at its best in autumn, with lush greenery, colourful flora, and the clear blue Mediterranean Sea. The cooler temperatures make it perfect for exploring the historic cl sights or hiking and cycling through diverse countryside and coastal trails.
The sea remains warm enough for diving and snorkelling as well. Gozo is renowned for its underwater scenery, including caves and shipwrecks.
Nearest airport: Malta International Airport (To get to Gozo you will need to catch the Gozo ferry which departs from Ċirkewwa, the northernmost point of the Malta. The ferry is frequent every 30 to 45 mins during peak hours).
Milan Malpensa – Malta from 98 €
Milan Linate – Malta from 100 €
Freiburg, Germany
Freiburg is surrounded by the Black Forest, which comes alive with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in autumn. The temperatures ranging from 10-20°C are ideal for exploring the old town and for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
The region around Freiburg is part of the Baden wine-growing area, one of Germany's top wine regions. Autumn is harvest time, making it the perfect season to visit local vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and experience wine festivals. Additionally, you can explore the many castles, such as the Schlossberg, which offer panoramic views of the colourful surroundings.
Nearest airport: Stuttgart Airport
Milan Malpensa – Stuttgart from 84 €
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague's parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets come alive with vibrant autumn colours. Spots like Letna Park, and the Vltava River banks offer stunning views of golden and red leaves against the backdrop of the city's iconic architecture.
It is the shoulder season, meaning there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. This allows you to explore popular sites like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and Old Town Square more peacefully, with shorter lines and less crowded spaces.
You can savor traditional Czech cuisine, which is perfect for cooler weather. Enjoy dishes like goulash, and roasted duck with dumplings. Pair your meal with a pint of Czech beer or a glass of warm mulled wine.
Nearest airport: Vaclav Havel Airport Prague
Milan Malpensa – Prague from 55 €
You can find some other stunning foliage destinations HERE.
Don’t forget, GoOpti is here to make your travels easier! With our comfortable and convenient transfers, you can focus on what matters most: enjoying your adventure. Book your next trip with us and let’s explore the beauty of autumn in Europe together.