Summer's end doesn't have to mean the end of travel. As the leaves turn and the air cools, autumn offers a particularly inviting window to explore Europe – with thinner crowds and a more relaxed pace. While the continent's iconic capitals will always draw visitors, a growing number of travellers are discovering that the journey between major cities can be just as rewarding as the destinations themselves.
According to booking data from Daytrip, a platform that arranges car transfers between cities, a notable shift is underway. Instead of simply rushing from one metropolis to another, holidaymakers – particularly those from the United States – are using their transfer time to stop at smaller, historically rich towns that are often overshadowed by their more famous neighbours. As Daytrip puts it, “A transfer that once meant hours on the highway now includes a stop at a historic town, a museum, a viewpoint, or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, effectively adding a destination to the itinerary without adding an extra day to the vacation.”
Here are ten such places, ranked by Daytrip's popularity among autumn travellers, that merit a few hours of your time.
1. Pompeii, Italy
Less than an hour's drive from Naples, Pompeii remains one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the world. The ancient Roman city, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, covers roughly 440,000 square metres of public squares, temples, and residential quarters. You don't need to see it all: the Large Theatre, once home to Greek-Roman plays, and the smaller Odeon for poetry and music are close together. For a greener perspective, the Villa of Julia Felix, an aristocratic complex from the 1st century BC, boasts an expansive ornamental garden.
2. Český Krumlov, Czechia
Nestled in the south of Bohemia, about four hours from Prague, Český Krumlov is a medieval gem. Its castle, once the seat of the South Bohemian aristocracy, has preserved its original layout and much of its architectural fabric from the 14th to the 19th centuries. Wandering the town's winding streets feels like stepping back in time, and the castle's gardens offer a peaceful autumn stroll.
3. Coimbra, Portugal
Central Portugal's Coimbra is a city of historic monuments and distinctive architecture, but it's also a haven for adventurous eaters. Thanks to its position on the Mondego River – the longest river that flows entirely within Portugal – lamprey and eel are local delicacies. Pair them with regional cheeses for a true taste of the Beira Litoral.
4. Óbidos, Portugal
This walled medieval town, a short drive from Lisbon, is a picture-perfect stop. Its whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and the imposing castle – now a pousada – make it a favourite for those seeking a quintessential Portuguese atmosphere. Autumn brings a quieter charm, with the surrounding vineyards ready for harvest.
5. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
While not a town, Plitvice is a natural wonder that deserves a place on any itinerary. Its cascading lakes and waterfalls are spectacular in any season, but autumn's palette of golds and reds adds a dramatic backdrop. The park's wooden walkways allow you to explore the turquoise waters up close, and the crowds of summer have largely dissipated.
6. Bratislava, Slovakia
Often overlooked in favour of Vienna or Budapest, Slovakia's capital is a compact and walkable city with a charming old town and a hilltop castle overlooking the Danube. It's an easy stop between the Austrian and Hungarian capitals, offering a blend of history, café culture, and a lively food scene.
7. Aveiro, Portugal
Known as the “Venice of Portugal” for its canals and colourful moliceiro boats, Aveiro is a coastal city with a distinct Art Nouveau heritage. Its proximity to the sea means fresh seafood is a highlight, and the city's sweet pastries, ovos moles, are a must-try.
8. Kutná Hora, Czechia
Another Czech gem, Kutná Hora is famous for its Gothic architecture and the eerie Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel decorated with the bones of thousands of people. The town's medieval silver mines once made it one of the wealthiest cities in Central Europe, and its Cathedral of St. Barbara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Montepulciano, Italy
Perched on a hill in Tuscany, Montepulciano is renowned for its Renaissance palaces and its Vino Nobile, one of Italy's most prestigious wines. A stop here offers a chance to taste the local vintage, wander the ancient streets, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
10. Nazaré, Portugal
This fishing town on the Atlantic coast has become famous for its giant waves, which attract surfers from around the world. But beyond the spectacle, Nazaré offers a traditional Portuguese atmosphere, with its cliff-top fort and a beach that stretches for miles. Autumn is an ideal time to watch the waves without the summer crowds.
These stops are not just about ticking off sights; they are about enriching the journey itself. As Daytrip's data suggests, a few extra hours can transform a simple transfer into a memorable part of the holiday. For those planning autumn travel, consider adding one or two of these destinations to your route – you might find that the road less travelled is exactly where the best memories are made.
