What are the best places to visit in the fall?

The best fall destinations include New England for foliage, Japan for autumn colors, Germany for Oktoberfest, Italy for harvest season, and Morocco for perfect weather. Each offers unique seasonal experiences and comfortable temperatures.

When is the best time to see fall foliage?

Peak fall foliage typically occurs from late September to mid-October in North America, October to November in Japan, and September to October in Europe. Timing varies by location and elevation.

What should I pack for fall travel?

Pack layers including light sweaters, waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, warm accessories, and weather-appropriate clothing. Fall weather can be unpredictable, so versatile clothing is essential.

Are fall vacations more affordable?

Yes, fall is often considered shoulder season with lower accommodation rates, cheaper flights, and fewer crowds. Prices typically drop 20-40% compared to peak summer rates in most destinations.

What are the best fall road trip destinations?

Top fall road trips include New England foliage routes, Blue Ridge Parkway, Great Ocean Road in Australia, Romantic Road in Germany, and Tuscany wine routes. These offer stunning scenery and comfortable driving conditions.

Best Places to Visit in the Fall (2025 Guide)

Why Fall is Perfect for Travel

Fall offers ideal travel conditions with comfortable temperatures, stunning foliage, harvest festivals, and fewer crowds than summer. The shoulder season also brings lower prices and more authentic local experiences across many destinations.

Best Fall Foliage Destinations

New England, USA

Peak Season

Late September to mid-October offers spectacular displays of red, orange, and gold foliage across Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Top Spots

• Vermont's Route 100 scenic byway
• White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Berkshires, Massachusetts

Canadian Rockies

Peak Season

Late September brings golden larches against snow-capped peaks in Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Highlights

• Larch Valley hike near Lake Louise
• Moraine Lake with fall colors
• Icefields Parkway scenic drive
• Fewer crowds than summer

Japan

Peak Season

November brings stunning autumn colors (koyo) to temples, gardens, and mountain regions throughout Japan.

Best Locations

• Kyoto temples and gardens
• Nikko National Park
• Japanese Alps
• Mount Fuji region

Cultural and Festival Destinations

Germany

Oktoberfest

Munich's world-famous beer festival runs from late September to early October with traditional Bavarian culture.

Wine Harvest

Rhine and Mosel valleys celebrate wine harvest season with festivals and vineyard tours throughout October.

Tuscany, Italy

Harvest Season

September and October bring grape and olive harvests with festivals, wine tastings, and truffle hunting.

Advantages

• Pleasant weather for countryside exploration
• Fewer tourists than summer
• Fresh seasonal cuisine
• Beautiful golden landscapes

Warm Weather Escapes

Greek Islands

Why Visit in Fall

September and October offer warm weather, calm seas, and significantly fewer crowds than summer months.

Best Islands

• Santorini for stunning sunsets
• Crete for beaches and history
• Rhodes for medieval charm
• Naxos for authentic Greek culture

Morocco

Perfect Weather

October and November bring comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring cities, deserts, and mountains.

Highlights

• Marrakech medina and souks
• Sahara Desert camping
• Atlas Mountains trekking
• Coastal cities like Essaouira

Adventure Destinations

Patagonia

Spring Season

September to November (Southern Hemisphere spring) offers ideal hiking conditions with blooming wildflowers.

Activities

• Torres del Paine trekking
• Perito Moreno Glacier
• Wildlife watching
• Less wind than summer

Nepal

Peak Trekking Season

October and November offer clear skies, stable weather, and spectacular mountain views for Himalayan treks.

Popular Treks

• Everest Base Camp
• Annapurna Circuit
• Langtang Valley
• Poon Hill sunrise trek

Budget-Friendly Fall Destinations

Off-Season Bargains

•Portugal: Warm weather continues with lower prices after summer crowds
•Croatia: Beautiful Adriatic coast with September sunshine and reduced rates
•Vietnam: Excellent weather and value throughout the country
•Mexico: Post-summer deals with great weather in many regions

Money-Saving Tips