Other seasons can’t compete with autumn in my opinion – with its crisp air, golden landscapes, cozy vibes, and stunning foliage, it’s simply the perfect season – whether you’re cosying up at home or setting out to explore somewhere new. For many city breaks, autumn is an ideal time to visit, as the tourist numbers of summer begin to dip, the temperatures start to drop and everything gets a little more picturesque with the glow of autumn foliage.
To help inspire your autumn travel itinerary, I’ve curated a guide to my top destinations to visit during autumn. From the golden leaves of London to cosy corners of Paris, read on for vibrant foliage, local gems, stunning views and cosy nooks to spent a perfect autumn afternoon.
Isle of Skye
In my eyes (admittedly Scottish, so likely a little bit biased) no country is more magical for dramatic landscapes and vibrant foliage during autumn than Scotland. If moody, atmospheric weather, breathtaking nature and otherworldly landscapes are your vibe, then the Isle of Skye is the perfect destination for you. This rugged island off the west coast of Scotland boasts dramatic landscapes that become even more picturesque when the autumn colours take hold.
Explore the enchanting Fairy Pools, where crystal-clear waters wind through valleys, against the striking backdrop of the jagged hills. Hiking the Quiraing or Old Man of Storr trails is an ideal way to enjoy panoramic views of the island’s breathtaking scenery. The island is dotted with cosy pubs to warm up with a dram of Whisky after a day of exploring, or take it up a notch with a tour and tasting at the Talisker distillery.
Isle of Skye
Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Scotland’s historic capital city gets even more inviting during the autumn months. The city’s Old Town, with its cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture, becomes even more picturesque as the trees transition to vibrant autumn colours.
Take a stroll down the historic Royal Mile and explore the hidden closes, with bars, restaurants and coffee shops tucked away down the neighbouring streets. Take a tour of Edinburgh Castle to learn about its royal history, and take in the views from its panoramic outlook to see the city bathed in autumn colours. Head to Princes Street Gardens or the Meadows for a relaxing wander among the autumn foliage, and cosy up in one of the city’s inviting cafes with a decadent hot chocolate, or explore the charming old pubs and enjoy a ‘malt of the moment’.
Glencoe
In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe is a must visit destination for adventurous spirits seeking an autumn escape. On a journey through Glencoe, you’ll find yourself surrounded by scenic mountains, stunning waterfalls, and peaceful rivers. The sweeping glen is known for its dramatic beauty, and when autumn arrives, the landscape is transformed by a patchwork of vibrant hues.
Hiking trails like the Hidden Valley and the Devil’s Staircase are a perfect way to get immersed in nature and take in the stunning scenery from a higher viewpoint, just make sure to pack plenty of layers as the temperatures can be unpredictable at this time of year.
Glencoe
Glasgow
Glasgow
The last Scottish stop on the list, but by no means the least. Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, really gets a glow up during the autumn season.
Kelvingrove Park, in the City’s West End, is one of the best spots to see the vibrant autumn foliage as the leaves turn golden. Take a stroll through the park to surround yourself with nature, enjoy views along the River Kelvin towards the gothic Glasgow University building, and stop in at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for a dose of culture. In the east of the city, the stunning gothic architecture of Glasgow Cathedral is even more breathtaking surrounded by seasonal foliage, and don’t miss the views from the Glasgow Necropolis nearby, for an elevated view of the cathedral and panoramic outlook across the city. If the weather isn’t on your side, (which is always a possibility in Glasgow) you’ll find some of Scotland’s best coffeeshops, restaurants, and lively pubs and bars to explore in Glasgow, as well as many free museums and galleries that offer both culture and shelter.
Paris
The City of Love becomes even more irresistable in Autumn. As the city’s historic streets are dotted with the colours of the season, and the river Seine takes on an autumnal golden glow from the changing leaves that line its banks.
A stroll along the river, or a scenic Seine boat ride, is a perfect way to take in the iconic sights through the heart of the city. The café culture that Paris is famed for is also particularly inviting at this time of year – as the temperature drops, the city’s cafés make cozy sanctuaries where you can sip on hot chocolate, indulge in flaky croissants, and watch the world go by. If you’re in the mood for something more macabre, a visit to the city’s catacombs is an eye opening activity to learn more about the history of the city and its former residents. Or, for a perfectly peaceful afternoon, explore the city’s charming bookshops and vintage shops, and end the day at a cosy spot in a local wine bar.
Paris
London
London
My rundown of top autumn destinations couldn’t miss the cosy charm of London. The city is wonderful all year round, but there’s something extra special about London as the weather cools and the leaves begin to turn. Having spent 10 autumns living in London, I can say from experience it’s the prettiest season to visit the city’s parks and surround yourself with stunning foliage.
Make sure to visit Regent’s park for it’s stunning leafy walkways, Victoria park for laid back East London charm, and Hyde Park for expansive space to spread out a picnic, or take a spin in a rowing boat on Serpentine Lake. Autumn is also when the city’s best bakeries bring out some of their most delicious seasonal treats, so once you’ve worked up an appetite with a walk in the park, head in search of something indulgent.
San Francisco
While the seasonal shift is more subtle in the Golden State, it makes a fantastic autumn getaway without sacrificing on sunshine, and the Bay Area knows how to go all out for Halloween.
Expect to find autumnal colours and flavours sweeping San Francisco and many of it’s restaurant menus, so look out for special edition dishes and seasonal drinks from local bakeries, bars and cafes. The city’s colourful houses get even more vibrant with pumpkins, spiderwebs and skeletons displayed on their doorsteps, and there are heaps of spooky things to see and do as Halloween approaches – from family friendly activities in Golden Gate park, to neighbourhood nightlife and screenings of classic horror movies.
San Francisco
New York City
New York City
Autumn in the concrete jungle of New York City is an unforgettable experience. The city’s parks and tree-lined avenues becomes a foliage-lover’s wonderland of red, orange, and golden leaves.
Spend an afternoon in Central Park to surround yourself with breathtaking foliage. Rent a rowboat, pack a picnic, and don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning autumn colours. As Halloween creeps closer, the city comes alive with exciting events, seasonal treats and spooky decorations that are not to be missed. If you’re planning a trip during October, make sure to check out the hauntingly good halloween displays on houses around the Upper East Side. And if you’re in the city for Halloween night, the Village Halloween parade is a perfect way to join in the celebrations and see the city’s residents go all out with creativity and costumes.
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