Fall is hands down one of the best times to hit the road and see some of the best spots. The leaves turn all shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the air gets that perfect crisp bite. This rundown of the top ten places to visit during the autumn season is packed with spots that just pop when fall rolls in.
Think of wandering through New York’s Central Park with leaves crunching under your shoes or hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains where the trees look like they’re on fire. Maybe you’re into sipping wine in Italy’s Tuscany region with rolling hills glowing under the sun or checking out Japan’s Kyoto, where quiet temples sit surrounded by colorful forests.
These places aren’t just pretty—they’ve got that cozy fall vibe with harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and bonfires. Whether you’re a solo traveler, dragging the family along, or snapping pics for your feed, these autumn destinations have something for everyone. From Germany’s Black Forest to New England’s charming small towns, fall’s the time to see nature show off. Grab a jacket, plan your trip, and check out these must see spots for the ultimate fall adventure.
The Top Ten Places To Visit During Autumn Season
10. Napa Valley, California, USA
Napa Valley comes alive during the autumn season, as vineyards glow with golden hues and the harvest season buzzes with energy. Known for world-class wines, this region offers a blend of scenic beauty and culinary delights, making it a top pick for fall getaways. The rolling hills, dotted with grapevines, create a picturesque setting for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions: Yountville is a foodie haven with renowned wineries like Domaine Chandon and Michelin-starred restaurants. St. Helena’s charming Main Street features boutique shops and historic vineyards. Calistoga offers relaxing hot springs and mud baths, while the Silverado Trail provides a scenic drive through vibrant autumn landscapes.
Best Time: August to October, with September being the peak for harvest activities, when vineyards are bustling and the weather is mild.
Activities: Join winery tours to witness grape-picking and crushing during the harvest. Explore the Napa Valley Vine Trail by bike for stunning views of fall foliage. Attend the Napa Valley Film Festival for a mix of cinema and wine tastings. Sip local Cabernet Sauvignon at outdoor tastings or enjoy farm-to-table dinners at local eateries, soaking in the autumn charm.
9. Ontario, Canada
Ontario transforms into a canvas of fiery colors during autumn, with vast forests and charming towns showcasing some of Canada’s best fall foliage. From wilderness parks to wine regions, this destination offers diverse experiences for leaf-peepers and adventure seekers.
Top Attractions: Algonquin Provincial Park is a wilderness gem, with hiking trails and canoe routes through vibrant forests. Niagara-on-the-Lake boasts historic charm and vineyards glowing with autumn hues. Blue Mountain offers scenic chairlift rides, while Thousand Islands provides boat tours with views of colorful shores.
Best Time: Mid-September to late October, when maples and oaks reach peak vibrancy, especially in northern areas like Algonquin.
Activities: Go leaf-peeping on trails like Algonquin’s Lookout Trail for panoramic views. Pick apples at orchards like Apple Land or sample wines in Niagara’s vineyards. Drive the scenic Forks of the Credit for a relaxing road trip. Attend Toronto’s Royal Agricultural Winter Fair to celebrate Canadian harvest traditions, immersing in the seasonal charm of autumn travel.
8. Switzerland
Switzerland’s Alps and lakes take on a golden glow in autumn, offering breathtaking vistas and fewer crowds than summer. The crisp air and colorful landscapes make it a haven for outdoor lovers and those seeking cozy retreats.
Top Attractions: Grindelwald’s trails lead to views of Eiger and Jungfrau, framed by autumn foliage. Lake Lugano in Ticino offers mild weather and scenic boat rides. Zermatt’s Matterhorn stands majestic against fall colors, while Interlaken is a hub for hiking and paragliding.
Best Time: September to November, with October ideal for vibrant foliage and pleasant temperatures.
Activities: Hike to First in Grindelwald for alpine views or explore Lavaux’s terraced vineyards for wine tasting. Witness Alpabfahrt, where decorated cows descend from mountains in festive parades. Relax in thermal baths like Leukerbad or stroll through Lausanne’s markets for seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts, embracing the magic of fall season getaways in Switzerland.
7. England, UK
England’s countryside bursts into autumn splendor, with golden fields and historic villages creating a cozy, storybook atmosphere. From rolling hills to serene lakes, it’s a perfect escape for those craving seasonal charm.
Top Attractions: The Cotswolds’ villages, like Bourton-on-the-Water, are postcard-perfect with stone cottages and colorful trees. The Lake District’s fells and lakes, like Windermere, glow in autumn light. Cornwall’s coastal paths offer mild weather, while Bath’s Roman baths shine under crisp skies.
Best Time: September to November, with October offering peak foliage and mild weather.
Activities: Wander through Cotswolds’ forests for stunning fall foliage or take a scenic train ride on the Jacobite Steam Train. Visit pumpkin patches for family fun or sip cider at local pubs. Celebrate Bonfire Night on November 5th with fireworks and bonfires, soaking in England’s autumn traditions and creating unforgettable autumn vacation memories.
6. Central Park, New York City, USA
Central Park becomes an urban oasis in autumn, with its vast canopy of trees turning fiery shades of red and gold. This iconic park offers a peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle, perfect for fall strolls and photos.
Top Attractions: Bow Bridge is a romantic spot for fall photos, framed by colorful trees. Bethesda Terrace’s fountain sparkles amid autumn leaves. The Pond reflects skyscrapers and vibrant foliage, while the Conservatory Garden bursts with chrysanthemums and golden trees.
Best Time: Late October to early November, when the park’s 18,000 trees hit peak color, creating a stunning urban autumn landscape.
Activities: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride for a classic park experience. Snap photos at Bethesda Fountain or picnic on the Great Lawn. Attend the Central Park Film Festival for outdoor movie nights under the stars. Explore the park’s trails by bike or visit the Central Park Zoo, enjoying the seasonal charm of this top autumn destination.
5. Great Smoky Mountains, USA
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fall foliage paradise, with diverse tree species creating a vibrant display of colors. Spanning Tennessee and North Carolina, it’s a haven for nature lovers seeking autumn adventures.
Top Attractions: Cades Cove’s 11-mile loop road offers scenic drives and wildlife spotting. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point, provides 360-degree views of colorful mountains. Laurel Falls Trail leads to a waterfall framed by autumn hues, while Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail winds through old-growth forests.
Best Time: Mid-October to early November, when maples, oaks, and hickories reach peak vibrancy.
Activities: Drive the Foothills Parkway for sweeping vistas or hike to Rainbow Falls for stunning scenery. Attend the Mountain Life Festival at Oconaluftee Visitor Center to explore Appalachian culture. Go horseback riding or bike along quiet trails, immersing in the natural beauty of this top fall season getaway.
4. Black Forest, Germany
The Black Forest transforms into a fairy-tale landscape in autumn, with dense woods and charming villages bathed in red and gold. Its mix of natural beauty and cultural traditions makes it a must-visit for fall travel.
Top Attractions: Triberg Waterfalls, among Germany’s highest, are stunning amid colorful forests. Baden-Baden’s thermal spas offer relaxation in crisp air. Titisee Lake reflects vibrant trees, perfect for boating. The Cuckoo Clock Museum in Triberg showcases the region’s craftsmanship.
Best Time: October, when foliage peaks and the weather is cool but pleasant.
Activities: Hike the Schwarzwaldhochstrasse trail for breathtaking views of autumn colors. Sample local dishes like spätzle or Black Forest cake at cozy taverns. Visit Freiburg’s markets for seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts. Attend Oktoberfest celebrations in nearby towns, diving into the festive spirit of autumn vacations in Germany.
3. Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards glow with golden and red hues in autumn, creating a romantic backdrop for harvest season adventures. This region blends natural beauty with culinary delights, perfect for fall getaways.
Top Attractions: The Chianti region’s vineyards offer wine tastings amid stunning landscapes. Siena’s medieval streets and Piazza del Campo shine in autumn light. Lucca’s tree-lined city walls are ideal for strolls, while San Miniato hosts a famous truffle festival.
Best Time: September to November, with October ideal for harvest festivals and mild weather.
Activities: Join a truffle hunt in San Miniato with local guides or participate in the grape harvest (vendemmia) at a vineyard. Explore markets for fresh olive oil and chestnuts. Bike through Chianti’s hills for scenic views or savor Tuscan soups at local trattorias, embracing the seasonal charm of this top autumn destination.
2. New England, USA
New England is synonymous with fall foliage, as its forests and small towns burst into vibrant colors, creating a quintessential autumn experience. From scenic drives to cozy villages, it’s a top pick for leaf-peeping.
Top Attractions: Vermont’s Green Mountains, with towns like Stowe, offer picture-perfect views. New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway is a scenic drive through fiery forests. Maine’s Acadia National Park features hikes to Cadillac Mountain, while Massachusetts’ Berkshires blend culture and nature.
Best Time: Mid-September to mid-October, with northern areas peaking later, offering vibrant colors and crisp weather.
Activities: Drive the Mohawk Trail for stunning vistas or visit apple orchards for picking and cider tasting. Attend harvest festivals like the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Rhode Island. Hike in Acadia for coastal and forest views or explore Woodstock’s covered bridges, soaking in the magic of New England’s autumn season.
1. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto reigns as the ultimate autumn destination, with its temples and gardens draped in fiery koyo (autumn leaves), creating a serene and magical atmosphere. This city blends tradition and nature, making it a top choice for fall travel.
Top Attractions: Kiyomizu-dera Temple’s wooden decks overlook red maples, especially during evening illuminations. Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge are framed by colorful trees. Fushimi Inari Taisha’s torii gates lead through vibrant forests, while the Philosopher’s Path offers a tranquil stroll.
Best Time: Late November to early December, when maples peak, creating a stunning display of fall foliage.
Activities: Attend momiji viewing events at Tofuku-ji or Eikan-do, where gardens glow under night lights. Join a tea ceremony for a cultural experience or explore markets for seasonal treats like kuri kinton. Wander Arashiyama’s trails or visit a ryokan for a cozy stay, immersing in the timeless beauty of Kyoto’s autumn vacations.
