When autumn arrives, most leaf-peeping attention goes to New England, but Europe can easily rival it. The window for fall colours in the US northeast is notoriously short and unpredictable. Europe, by contrast, spans high Alpine peaks, deep river valleys and vast forests, so autumn arrives at different times across the continent. That means you can chase fiery reds, golden yellows and burnt oranges for weeks—sometimes months—rather than gambling on one perfect weekend.
Here are ten of the best European destinations for autumn foliage this year.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is one of Slovenia's most popular spots, and for good reason. It offers some of the country's most spectacular scenery and is home to its only natural island. Summer crowds can be intense, so autumn is an ideal time to visit. While the water may be too chilly for casual swimmers in the '-ber' months, you can hire a rowing boat and admire the richly coloured leaves around the lake. If you prefer walking, a circuit of the lake takes about an hour and a half, with plenty of photo stops.
Bavarian Alps, Germany
The Bavarian Alps are beautiful year-round, and tourists flock to see Neuschwanstein Castle in every season. But autumn is especially rewarding because of the varied elevation. Colours start as early as September near the Zugspitze summit, then work their way down the mountainsides to the lower valleys, which still show red and orange hues into November. Stay in Füssen if you can—it's the perfect base for the many trails that crisscross the mountains.
Lake District, England
Though it only became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, England's Lake District has inspired visitors for centuries, from Romantic poets like Samuel Taylor Coleridge to William Wordsworth. Buttermere is particularly beautiful in autumn. Arrive early for a walk around the lake, when the water is often calm enough to reflect the surrounding hills and foliage. Coniston Water is another highlight, with woodland trails, mountain views and a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees providing rich colour.
Transylvania, Romania
There's more to Transylvania than vampires—and autumn is the ideal time to discover that. Besides visiting Bran Castle (also known as Dracula's Castle) in spooky season, the trees across the Carpathian Mountains turn exquisite hues as autumn progresses. The varying altitude means the colours last a long time. Stay in Brașov, the ideal place to soak in the atmosphere after exploring the mountains. Many restaurants set up outdoor heaters and offer blankets, so you can warm up while enjoying the crisp air.
Perthshire, Scotland
Think of autumn colours, and Scotland likely comes to mind. If it's on your list, head to Perthshire, which straddles the Highlands and the Lowlands. It's home to the Meikleour Beech Hedge, officially the tallest hedge in the world, which turns red and orange in autumn. There's also The Hermitage, a National Trust-owned forest with waterfalls and ruins that has to be seen to be believed. Families will enjoy the Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry, a light-and-sound spectacle from early October to early November that adds magic to the region's autumnal woodlands.
The Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are on many hikers' bucket lists, but they also make an excellent autumn destination come September. Besides the larch trees, which turn a glowing golden colour from October until the heavy snow starts in November, be sure to admire the autumn light hitting the dramatic rock faces. The season's long shadows cast an otherworldly glow at sunset, while the foliage is reflected in Lago di Sorapis and Lago di Braies, both well worth a visit.
Loire Valley, France
World-renowned for its wine, the Loire Valley is particularly beautiful in autumn. As well as sampling the region's famous vintages, you can admire the vineyards as their leaves turn rich shades of red, orange and purple, especially around the many grand châteaux. Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire is a favourite in autumn, when its grounds are decorated with pumpkins and squash, adding a wonderfully seasonal touch to the already spectacular gardens and historic setting.
Lapland, Finland
Many tourists associate Lapland with Christmas, but it's also a fabulous place for an autumn break. While Rovaniemi, the region's capital, is packed with strikingly coloured trees, the Northern Lights are actually particularly strong in the fall. You might even see the aurora borealis reflected off Lapland's many lakes, which are flanked by autumnal foliage. While it's not as cold as in the dead of winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so pack winter clothes.
For more seasonal inspiration, check out our guide to autumn escapes across Europe, or explore Spain's inland autumn getaways. If you're planning ahead, our winter escapes list covers sun, snow and quiet cities.
