Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

There is something very magical about autumn, and it is without doubt my favourite time of the year. The colours of the leaves, the cosy evenings by a fire, wrapping up in scarves and curling up with a good book and a scented candle. It therefore makes complete sense to have a list of the best places to travel to in autumn. Combining my love of the season with my love of travel!

Check out my other seasonal guides:

• Best places to travel to in summer
• Winter travel: Best places to travel to in Winter
• Best places to travel to in Spring

So, if you are based in the UK or Europe, here is my complete list of the best places to travel to in autumn.

Most of the following trips I have personally taken, and can highly recommend! The others, they are still on my list as some of the best places to travel to in autumn.

New England, USA – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

Possibly one of the top bucket list trips to take when thinking about the best places to travel to in autumn! New England is famed for its stunning ‘fall foliage’, as well as cosy autumnal vibes, and being the perfect place for a road trip.

When to go

You will want to coordinate your visit with Peak Foliage as much as you can. This generally occurs from late September through mid-October. However, there are various factors to consider. The peak foliage timings can vary from year to year, depending on how warm the summer has been. The colours turn in the northern areas first, so Vermont typically peaks before the coastal areas of Maine. Higher elevation also tends to turn first.

As a rough guide:

• Northern New England (Northern Maine, White Mountains of New Hampshire, and Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom): Peaks from late September to early October.
• Central New England (The Berkshires in Massachusetts and central areas): Peaks during early to mid-October.
• Southern New England (Rhode Island and coastal/southern Connecticut): Peaks from mid-to-late October and can stretch into early November.

Having said the above, I visited in late September and, while the colours were only just starting to turn, I still had the most incredible, autumnal trip.

For New England in fall inspo:
One Week New England Roadtrip
Covered bridges in Vermont you need to see!
14 things to do in Kennebunkport, Maine

Vermont for Peak Foliage – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

The epitome of New England fall foliage trips! Vermont is the state to head to if you are into all things autumn. Think scenic drives, apple picking, maple farms and covered bridges.

We spent most of our road trip in the state of Vermont, and it was incredible. While it was still early in the season, it had all the vibes I was after. One of my core travel memories is sitting on a rocking chair under a blanket on a porch, sipping hot apple cider next to my best friend. Unmatched.

If you are visiting Vermont in autumn, here are a few places I’d recommend visiting:

• Covered Bridges: Vermont has over 100 of them, and coming across them became one of my favourite hobbies. Emily’s Bridge and Red Covered Bridge are two of my faves.
• Quechee Gorge: A short hike, but with some stunning views.
• Cold Hollow Farm: This cider mill offers fresh-tasting cider and the cutest gift shop. Setting of the above memory!
• Maple Farms: Some offer tours and tastings, and it’s so interesting to see how it is actually made. I visited Sugarbush Farm just outside of Woodstock, and it was fab.

Where to stay in Vermont

I would recommend Woodstock or Stowe as brilliant bases for your time in Vermont. Woodstock feels straight out of a postcard, and Stowe has that classic New England charm.

WOODSTOCK –The Shire: We stayed in this cute motel, which was perfectly located and had a lovely garden set next to a stream. The rooms were clean, beautiful and comfy.

STOWE: Green Mountain Inn – Nestled in the centre of Stowe, with cosy vibes and spacious and clean rooms.

Salem, Massachusetts for Halloween – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

Salem, famous for the Salem Witch Trials, is perhaps a clichéd autumn and Halloween destination, but a fun one and definitely one of the best places to travel to in autumn! This small coastal town really leans into its infamous history, and in October transforms into one big, spooky celebration. It is the perfect stop to start or end any trip to New England, given its proximity to Boston Airport (only a 40-minute drive). If you can, try to visit on a weekday. Salem does get very busy in October, particularly at weekends, especially as it gets closer to Halloween, and queues for the main museums can be long.

I spent my time in Salem joining a Salem Trolley tour, which was the perfect way to learn about the history of the town. Some other ways to get to know the history:

• Salem Witch Museum: A good starting point for context on the trials.
• The Witch House: This is the only structure still standing with direct ties to the trials
• Guided walking tours: A fab way to get the stories behind the buildings rather than just reading plaques. There are plenty to choose from, but THIS ONE is highly recommended.

Top Tip: If you are a fan of the movie Hocus Pocus, then why not join THIS TOUR which guides you around the filming locations.

• Salem Maritime National Historic Site, if you want a break from the witch theme and a bit of coastal history instead.

Where to stay in Salem

If you decide to stop overnight in Salem, here are some great options:

HOTELS IN SALEM:
BUDGET: Lakeside Inn – For cheaper accommodation, head a little out of Salem. This is a straightforward option offering basic amenities, including a pool and breakfast.
MID-RANGE: The Salem Inn – A historic property located in the heart of Salem, providing a traditional and charming experience.
HIGH-END: Salem Waterfront Hotel & Inns – This upscale hotel offers more extensive amenities, including an indoor heated pool and a prime location near the wharf.

The Rocky Mountains, Alberta, Canada – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

The Rocky Mountains in Canada are still on my ‘to visit’ list of the best places to travel to in autumn, and for good reason! Once the summer crowds leave, the Canadian Rockies settle into, potentially, the most stunning scenery of the entire autumn season. Every bit of research I do only makes me want to go more.

When To Go

The autumn colour in the leaves typically starts in late August in the higher elevations and builds to its peak by late September; however, this can shift year to year depending on the weather. If you want to visit specifically for the colour, then the last two weeks of September are a good time to aim for.

What To Do

The main appeal of travelling the Rocky Mountains in autumn is to see the aspens turn. The locals call it ‘quaking’, which is when the Aspens of the forest start to turn into their autumnal hues and make a distinct sound in the wind. The leaves tremble and rustle in the wind when they turn gold.

Autumn is also elk rutting season, when the animals migrate down from the higher grounds to breed. If you are lucky, you might spot them in the wild, as this is known to be the best time to do so.

A few things I would do on an autumnal trip to the Rockies:

• Banff and Lake Louise: Arguably the most photographed stretch of the Rockies. I have visited in the summer, but the scenery would be even more dramatic in the autumn, and when the crowds thin out.
• Scenic drives: Particularly the Icefield Parkway, which is said to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
• Hiking: The cooler temperatures and quieter trails, combined with beautiful colours, make this an ideal activity.
• Wildlife spotting: Especially the elk migration.

Where To Stay

Depending on what you want to see during your time in the Rockies should influence where to stay.

Banff for convenience. Best for first-timers and those wanting restaurants, shopping, and heated outdoor pools. Iconic choices include the historic Fairmont Banff Springs (where I stayed!) or cosy options like Moose Hotel and Suites and Buffalo Mountain Lodge.

Lake Louise for iconic alpine views. Best for dramatic mountainscapes and early morning access to golden larch-tree hikes (like Larch Valley). Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise puts you right on the shore, while Lake Louise Inn offers a slightly more relaxed lodge feel nearby.

Canmore for budget-friendly alternatives. Just outside the national park gates, Canmore is a fantastic, slightly more affordable basecamp with great condo-style hotels, vibrant local cafes, and easy access to the Smith-Dorrien trail for fall colours. Try the Canmore Inn & Suites.

Kananaskis Country for crowd-free autumn foliage. Best for a peaceful, scenic retreat away from the heavy tourist crowds. Places like Mount Engadine Lodge offer remote alpine luxury surrounded by turning autumn aspens and larches.

Japan – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

I visited Japan in October, and the beginnings of autumn were definitely in the air. While I don’t think the country had reached its peak of autumn yet, it was still absolutely beautiful, and so I can safely say it is one of the best places to travel to in autumn. I can only imagine how spectacular the colours would be when they reached their peak.

When To Go

Autumn in Japan generally runs from September to November, but once again the timing does vary depending on where you are in the country. Typically the colour arrives first in Hokkaido, from around mid-September, then continues south over the next few weeks. It reaches Kyoto and the rest of central Japan through November. If you are planning a trip around the foliage specifically, definitely check regional forecasts closer to the time.

Where to See the Best Autumnal Colours in Japan

The most famous place in autumn in Japan is Kyoto, and this is the obvious starting point for an autumnal trip. The mix of temples, shrines and traditional gardens against the backdrop of turning maples is exactly what you imagine when thinking about Japan in autumn. It is also worth heading out to countryside places such as Nara, where you get the colours of autumn alongside a slower pace and, of course, the famous deer wandering around the park.

Here are a few spots to consider when visiting at this time of year:

• Kyoto’s temples and gardens: Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji are both known for exceptional autumn colour.
• Nara: Famous for its deer, temples, and a quieter alternative to Kyoto’s crowds.
• Arashiyama’s bamboo grove: It takes on a completely different atmosphere once the surrounding maples turn
• Hokkaido: If you want to catch the very start of the season.

Where To Stay

If you choose to stay in Kyoto:

BUDGET: Hotel M’s Plus Shijō Ōmiya: A contemporary, streamlined hotel located in a convenient part of the city.
MID-RANGE: Hotel Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo: A well-rated hotel offering warm, comfortable rooms in a very central location.
High-End: Cross Hotel Kyoto: A stylish, highly-regarded 4-star hotel that balances modern design with a great location near popular attractions.

And if you want to stay in Nara:

BUDGET: はる家 ならまち (Haruya Naramachi): A charming, traditional-style hostel set in a historic building, perfect for an authentic feel.
MID-RANGE: Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae: A well-located 4-star hotel close to the Kintetsu-Nara Station, making it very accessible.
HIGH-END: Onyado Nono Nara: A highly-rated 4-star hotel that features a traditional bathhouse experience, adding a touch of relaxation to your stay.

Lake Bled, Slovenia – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

I visited Slovenia in early October, and it was amazing! The main reason for this was to take a trip to Lake Bled, and it was every bit as beautiful as I had hoped. Hence, it is one of my best places to travel to in autumn. If you are looking for a part of Europe that quite literally feels like a fairytale, Lake Bled is it!

While I think the Lake will look beautiful all year round, resplendent in spring blooms or stunning under a blanket of snow. Taking a hike around the lake at this time of year is only going to make it more special. I am just hoping for one of those perfect crisp, clear autumn days. Although even if it is misty, I like to think it will add an air of mystery to the scenery. Plus the bonus of going in October is that, again, the summer crowds will have left, meaning it will be that bit quieter.

When To Go

Early October is the best time to visit. Largely, the summer crowds have left, and the temperatures are pleasantly cool, but not yet cold. At this time of the year, the leaves are starting to turn, meaning you get the golden autumn colour reflected in the lake, but you haven’t completely lost the warmth of the summer just yet.

What To Do

Of course, the main thing to do is visit the lake, with its famous little island and church sitting right in the middle. Walking the full loop of the lake will take a few hours, without feeling rushed, and it is a stunning way to see the island from all angles. On the day I visited, it was slightly misty, but this didn’t affect the experience at all, just added a slight air of mystery to the atmosphere.

When visiting Lake Bled in autumn, you might want to:

• Walk the lake loop: This is roughly 6km, and is flat and doable in a few hours.
• Take a pletna boat out to Bled Island to ring the church bell (said to bring good luck). It was such a good way to see the island approach; I loved doing this!
• Bled Castle: Perched above the lake, visit for the best panoramic views and for a piece of history.m
• Sample Kremšnita: This is Bled’s famous cream cake, and it is delicious! I got mine in the castle and ate it with those beautiful views.

Top Tip: It is easy to take a day trip to Lake Bled from Ljubljana if you are short on time.
THIS TOUR also includes Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle to see more of the country.

Where To Stay

To truly appreciate Lake Bled in autumn, I recommend spending at least one night staying in the area. The best places to stay cluster along the immediate lakefront for misty morning views of the changing foliage, or in the compact town centre for easy access to cosy restaurants.

• Lakeside: Grand Hotel Toplice – A historic lakeside luxury hotel on the shore with direct water views, perfect for watching the autumn mist rise off the lake.
• Town Centre: Rikli Balance Hotel – A central, wellness-focused resort option featuring indoor thermal pools, ideal if the crisp autumn weather turns chilly.

Peak District, UK – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

The Peak District is one of my favourite places to visit in the UK, and I have been lucky enough to travel there both in September and December. The Peak District in autumn offers stunning autumn foliage in golds and reds, crispy misty mornings and significantly fewer crowds than in the summer, making it one of the best places to travel to in autumn.

When To Go

Early autumn, September, gives you the end of summer and therefore some of the warmth, while the first hints of autumnal colours start to arrive. The trees might not yet be turning gold, but the golden light gives the right vibe. If you want to visit in peak, full-colour foliage, then aim for late October into early November.

What To Do

Whichever month you visit the Peak District in autumn, one of the best things to do is walk! Autumn is the perfect time of year to do this; the changing light throughout the season makes the walks beautiful. September gives soft and golden, by October, the trees have turned bright shades of gold, orange, and red, and in November, think crisp air, quiet trails, and striking late-autumn or early-winter scenery

Find the ideal walk in the Peak District for you:
Best Walks in the Peak District, UK

If you are visiting the Peak District in autumn:

• Walking in the Hope Valley: Views over Mam Tor and the Great Ridge.
• Stately homes: The Peak District is home to some incredible houses. Chatsworth House is well worth a visit in autumn for the gardens, and Haddon Hall for a wilder vibe.
• Stanage Edge: A tougher walk and some of the best views.
• Visit the villages: Castleton is an absolute fave, but also check out Bakewell and Hathersage. A coffee before a wander, and then a warm pub lunch after a walk. Heaven.

Where To Stay

There are so many gorgeous places to stay in the Peak District:

NORTHERN PEAK: Castleton: The Castle – Quintessential village charm!
CENTRAL PEAK: Tideswell: The Merchant’s Yard – Stylish rooms near the village centre with a sun terrace, bar and outside seating.
WHITE PEAK: Bakewell: The H Boutique: Incredibly stylish rooms right in the centre of the town, with lots of little touches.
NEAR CHATSWORTH: Baslow: Cavendish Hotel: Perfect for a real treat! Steeped in history with open fires, oak beams and antique furnishings

County Galway, Ireland – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

I had one of the most spontaneous and loveliest trips to Galway in October. Blessed with perfect blue skies nearly the entire visit, which I know isn’t something you can always rely on with Irish weather. But even without this luck, I would still recommend this as one of the best places to travel to in autumn.

When To Go

Early October is one of the best times to go. Autumn is only just beginning to show itself at this time of the year, but this is part of the appeal. At this time, you still get relatively mild days for walking and exploring. But the peak summer crowds have left the main sights, meaning it is not too busy.

What To Do

This part of Ireland is dotted with ruined castles, of which I am a huge fan! During autumn, these take on a completely different atmosphere as the autumn light and colours arrive. One of the highlights of Galway is the Cliffs of Moher, and visiting in early autumn means you avoid the huge crowds that arrive in summer.

I would also really recommend taking a ferry to the Aran Islands for the day if you have time. The islands are car-free, and feel like a real step back in time.

Things to build an autumnal trip to County Galway around:

• The Cliffs of Moher: These impressive cliffs are the most popular destination in Ireland. An early autumn visit means avoiding the worst of the crowds
• Day trip to the Aran Islands: Take the ferry to this group of three rocky islands at the mouth of Galway Bay. These are the last islands before America, and truly feel like stepping back in time.
• Explore Galway’s ruined castles: There are more than 200 castles dotted across the county. Some of the best are Menlo Castle, Clifden Castle and Hag’s Castle. Especially good to see in softer autumn light.
• A blustery coastal walk, followed by a well-earned tea and something sweet

Where To Stay

To make the most of your autumnal trip to Galway, I would recommend staying in an area such as Connemara, outside of the city:

BUDGET: Seaview Lodge: A highly-rated, affordable option that offers a more intimate and scenic stay in the coastal region.
MID-RANGE: Connemara Lake Hotel: Located in the heart of Connemara, this hotel provides a cosy and comfortable base for exploring the surrounding landscapes.
HIGH-END: Abbeyglen Castle Hotel: For a truly unique and luxurious experience, this historic castle hotel offers beautiful grounds and stunning views of Clifden and the Twelve Bens mountains.

Transylvania, Romania – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

It is hard to think of a destination that fits the season quite so well as Transylvania. Misty mountains, medieval towns and centuries of vampire lore. This is another one that is firmly on my autumn wish list; it almost feels too perfectly autumnal.

When To Go

October is generally considered the best time to visit Transylvania in Romania. The autumn colours are in full swing through the Carpathian Mountains, temperatures are cool but not yet properly cold, and if you time it right, you could visit around Halloween itself.

What To Do

The top thing to do in Transylvania in Autumn is to visit Bran Castle. This is the fortress most closely associated with the Dracula legend. It is perched dramatically on a rock, and looks like you would imagine, especially if there is an autumnal mist rolling in. As you can imagine, it does get busy around Halloween, so an early October visit might be a better balance between atmosphere and crowds.

Beyond the Dracula legends, Transylvania is full of well-preserved Saxon villages and fortified churches. The surrounding countryside is also spectacular when the forests turn.

Some places to visit in Transylvania in autumn:

• Bran Castle: For the history and the drama, whatever time of year
• Sighișoara: This is a beautifully preserved medieval old town and birthplace of Vlad the Impaler
• Drive along the Transfăgărășan: One of the most scenic mountain roads in Europe.
• The Saxon villages: To experience a quieter, slower side of the region away from the castle crowds.

Where To Stay

For an authentic and charming stay in Transylvania, I recommend Casa Saseasca in Sighișoara. This traditional guesthouse features a lovely, shaded courtyard and nine casual rooms, making it a perfect spot to soak in the medieval atmosphere of the city. It is highly rated for its character and warm hospitality.

Scotland – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

Scotland is one of the most stunning parts of the UK, and I have been lucky enough to visit a few times. As an autumn lover, this is definitely one of the best places to travel to in autumn.

When To Go

I visited in September, and it does give a brilliant first taste of autumn. The colours are just beginning to turn, there is a softer golden quality to the light, and the weather isn’t too cold. However, if you want a full blaze of colour, then late October, continuing into November, is the time to aim for.

What To Do

Scotland is a wonderful place for a road trip, and autumn is the perfect time to do this. Some of the best views are seen from the road, and a road trip gives you the opportunity to experience different parts of this stunning country.

This guide helps you plan the perfect week-long itinerary:
7 Day Scotland Itinerary for the best trip!

Some places I would recommend visiting:

• Edinburgh: Start your trip with some time in this gorgeous city. Visit cosy cafes, and make sure to check out the castle.
• Hiking: There are routes to suit everything from an easy afternoon to a full-day hike.
• Castles: There are so many castles to see, perfect for a cosy autumn trip. Use this guide: 15 of the best castles in Scotland to visit!
• The Glenfinnan Viaduct: Take the time to watch the iconic Jacobite Steam Train crossing the viaduct. Use this guide to plan: The Glenfinnan Viaduct Viewpoint and the Train: Ultimate Guide to Visiting
• Wildlife Spotting: Highland cattle are iconic, and luckily easy to spot. Stags will take more patience.

Where To Stay

For an autumn trip to the Scottish Highlands, top places to stay include Pitlochry for vibrant Perthshire foliage, Aviemore for Cairngorms pine forests, Plockton for a quiet coastal escape, and Inverness as a central touring hub.

Pitlochry (Perthshire): It is known as “Big Tree Country” and features dazzling autumn colours and famous nearby woodland walks like the Tummel Valley and Blair Castle grounds. Stay at the historic Atholl Palace Hotel for sweeping valley views and cosy firesides.

Aviemore (Cairngorms National Park): Ideal for crisp mountain air, red deer rutting sights, and walks around ancient Caledonian pine forests. Stay at local woodland lodges or resort properties like the Spey Valley Resort for easy access to lochs and trails.

Inverness (Capital of the Highlands): A practical base if you want a mix of city amenities and day trips to mystical spots like Glen Affric or Reelig Glen. Stay at the luxury Ness Walk Hotel for seasonal gourmet dining and tailored autumn packages.

Plockton (Wester Ross): A picturesque, sheltered coastal village offering a slower pace, fresh seafood, and dramatic sea-loch views framed by autumn light. Stay at the Plockton Inn for authentic local hospitality and seasonal menus.

Amsterdam – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

It is such a fantastic city break, and Amsterdam in autumn is well worth a visit. It is one of my favourite cities, and I have been four times, but in October it is really special. The colour of the trees, lots of autumnal and Halloween decorations are dotted around the city, and it has distinct cosy vibes. One of the best places to travel to in autumn if you are after a city break.

When To Go

Late October into November is when the canal-side trees really turn, with the reflections in the water making for some great photo opportunities. It is worth noting that the weather can be a little unpredictable in Amsterdam at this time of year, so it is worth coming prepared for wet weather.

What To Do

Amsterdam is a fantastic city to just wander around, and in autumn it is even more special. If you are up early, you are treated to misty mornings along the canals. Afternoons can be spent popping into cosy cafes. The parks around the city, particularly Vondelpark, are lovely for a crunchy walk through leaves.

When in Amsterdam in autumn, make sure to:

• Take a canal boat tour: Ideally in the late afternoon to make the most of the light as it turns golden. I took THIS ONE, which came with wine and cheese!
• Vondelpark: For a proper autumn walk in the middle of the city.
• Visit a museum: If it is drizzly, this is the perfect time to visit one of the many incredible museums in the city. I recommend the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
• A cosy brown cafe: These are the traditional wood-panelled Dutch pubs named for their dark, cosy interiors. Perfect for a warming drink and people watching.

Use this guide to help you plan your trip:
A guide to 48 hours in Amsterdam

For a final little autumn treat, do pop into the popular Polaberry. Known for their sweet treats, they do very Instagrammable cake pops, including autumn-themed ones!

If you are weighing up when to visit Amsterdam, I have also written about Amsterdam in the summer (told you it is one of my favourite cities!). In autumn you get golden canals, and a quieter, cosy city rather than long sunny evenings. So it really depends what sort of trip you are after.

Where To Stay

WHERE TO STAY IN AMSTERDAM:
Hotel Estheréa – Charming boutique hotel on a canal, perfect for a romantic or cosy stay
Pulitzer Amsterdam – Stylish and historic, ideal for a luxury stay right in the city centre
INK Hotel Amsterdam – Modern and trendy, great for design lovers and short city breaks
citizenM Amsterdam South – Smart, affordable and tech-forward, perfect for solo travellers or couples
ClinkNOORD Hostel – Social and budget-friendly, just a quick (free) ferry from Central Station

African Safari – Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

If you are not quite as taken with autumn as I am, you might find yourself looking a bit further afield for some sun when searching for the best place to travel to in Autumn. If you are craving some warmer weather and an adventure, a safari might be exactly what you are after. I have been lucky enough to travel extensively across Africa, including autumn trips to Tanzania in October, and Namibia and South Africa in November. As well as further trips through Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Zimbabwe at other times of the year. So this is a season and region I know pretty well.

When To Go

Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere (roughly September to November) lines up nicely with the tail end of the dry season across much of East and Southern Africa. Less rainfall means better visibility, easier terrain, and animals congregating more predictably around watering holes. All of which adds up to excellent safari drives, with a higher chance of seeing the wildlife.

Best countries for Safari in Autumn

• Tanzania: I visited the Nyerere National Park in October, and with no rainfall to contend with, it was an incredible safari experience. The Selous is heavily overgrown and largely off-road, so a dry visit makes a big difference to how much ground you can cover. September and October are also still the dry season in the world-famous Serengeti, ideal for dry weather and wildlife sightings.
• Kenya: Like Tanzania, it is still benefiting from the tail end of the dry season, making wildlife easier to spot.
• Namibia: I visited in November, and it is an excellent time for safari in Etosha due to the dry weather. However, it is very hot and dusty!
• Botswana: October is the hottest month here, but it’s also when you’re most likely to see large herds of elephants and buffalo gathering in Chobe National Park.
• Zambia: September and October are the driest months, meaning the remaining waterholes get busy with wildlife, and visibility is at its best.

What to Expect

As it is dry season, expect dusty, dry landscapes and long days out on safari drives. You will also be treated to plenty of wildlife sightings, thanks to the reduced rainfall. Do check specific park and lodge conditions since the Northern Hemisphere’s “autumn” period does span a wide window, and conditions shift according to the month and country.

Top Tip: If you want to travel across a few countries and not blow the budget, I highly recommend G Adventures tours, which is how I visited. Take a look at: Kenya to Zimbabwe Overland

Where To Stay

Considering where to stay depends on the country you decide to visit. Here are some suggestions:

Tanzania, Serengeti National Park: Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma. Set near the Grumeti River area, this comfortable tented camp offers an authentic bush experience with an outdoor pool, open-air dining, and great access to wildlife viewing without breaking the bank.

Kenya, Maasai Mara: Ashnil Mara Camp: Located right inside the Maasai Mara National Reserve along the Mara River, this camp puts you right in the heart of the action. It features spacious luxury tents with en-suite bathrooms and private wooden decks. The location is particularly fantastic for river-crossing views during migration season.

Namibia, Etosha National Park: Etosha Village: Situated just outside the Andersson Gate of Etosha, this lodge blends modern comfort with rustic charm. It offers air-conditioned thatched chalets, multiple swimming pools, and a lively, well-lit restaurant and bar area. It strikes a great balance between affordability, style, and proximity to the park.

Botswana, Chobe National Park: Chobe Safari Lodge: Set right on the banks of the Chobe River in Kasane, this lodge has a wonderful, lively atmosphere. Accommodation ranges from safari rooms to thatched chalets. Its biggest selling point is its location. You can literally watch elephants cross into Namibia from the terrace, and they run their own affordable boat cruises and game drives directly from the property.

Zambia, South Luangwa National Park: Track and Trail River Camp: Set right on the banks of the Luangwa River, this camp offers rustic chalets and tents with views of the water. It features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a fantastic location for watching wildlife come down to the river while staying within a mid-range budget.

FAQs About the Best Places to Travel to in Autumn

Where are the best places to travel to in autumn?

It depends on what you are after. For classic foliage, New England and Vermont are hard to beat, while Japan, Scotland and the Peak District have a quieter take. If you’d rather warmth, then a safari in Tanzania or Namibia is perfect.

What is the best month to travel in autumn?

September suits Scotland and the Peak District. You get the tail end of the summer warmth alongside the first hints of autumn. October is best for foliage in the Rockies, Vermont, Lake Bled and Japan. November suits Amsterdam and much of the safari season further into Southern Africa.

Where can I see the best autumn foliage?

Vermont and New England are the classic answer, but Japan (in particular Kyoto and Nara) and the Rocky Mountains in Alberta both rival them for colour. Closer to the UK, the Peak District and Scotland both have incredible autumn colours.

Is autumn a good time for safari?

Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere lines up with the tail end of the dry season across East and Southern Africa. Meaning better visibility, easier terrain and animals gathering around watering holes. Tanzania, Namibia and Botswana are particularly good choices. While this season isn’t autumn in Africa, it coincides with the UK’s autumn months.

Do I need to go far for the best places to travel to in autumn?

Not at all. Some of the best autumn scenery I’ve found is much closer. The Peak District and Scottish Highlands. Both are proof you don’t need a long-haul flight. Amsterdam is also less than an hour’s flight from the UK.

---

So these are my best places to travel to in autumn. And I hope to be ticking many more off soon. Are there any you would add? 

If you like this post on the best places to travel to in autumn, don’t forget to pin it for later.

Best places to travel to in Autumn