The smell of falling leaves is just around the corner. The orange and red leaves on the trees are about to float down to the ground, turning empty streets into a canvas of warm colors. This is the perfect time to travel before winter comes and takes away the daylight. We’ve created the ultimate guide to the best fall travel destinations on each continent.
Where are the best fall travel spots in the world?
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park becomes truly magical in the fall. Picture vibrant foliage in shades of yellow, red, and orange, making the scenery absolutely breathtaking. Visiting this picturesque park during the fall means fewer crowds, allowing for serene nature photos. Plus, it’s the perfect time for hiking among the mountains and unfrozen lakes.
Patagonia, Argentina & Chile
Shared by Argentina and Chile, Patagonia covers the vast southernmost part of South America. From March to June, the fall season here brings snow-capped mountains with red, orange, and yellow tree foliage beneath—a dream for photographers. Be prepared for some rain, as it’s common during this season.
Americas
The Americas offer countless fall travel destinations, from large bustling cities to serene natural wonders.
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff becomes a serene wonderland in the fall. The colorful leaves provide a stunning backdrop, and with fewer crowds, you can take uninterrupted photos of nature’s beauty. Hiking in the mountain ranges and around the unfrozen lakes is an unforgettable experience.
Patagonia, Argentina & Chile
Patagonia stretches across the vast southern regions of Argentina and Chile. During the fall (March to June), expect snow on mountaintops, adding a special touch to the vibrant red, orange, and yellow tree leaves. The picturesque scenes are perfect for keen photographers, though you should pack for wet weather.
Europe
Crossing the Atlantic to Europe, you’ll find a mix of lively city scenes and beautiful natural landscapes perfect for fall.
Munich, Germany
Munich is famous for its Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival held from mid-September to early November. It’s a must-visit for beer lovers, offering a chance to enjoy a festive atmosphere, party with friends, and indulge in some of the best beers Germany has to offer.
Lake District, United Kingdom
If city life wears you out, the Lake District in the northern UK offers a peaceful retreat. This mountainous region turns into a haven of beautiful fall foliage and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017.
Africa
In Africa, the fall season is marked by warm temperatures, providing a perfect escape from seasonal rains elsewhere.
Essaouira, Morocco
Known as “Africa’s Windy City,” Essaouira is a hidden gem ideal for enjoying warm autumn sunshine. Just a short trip from Europe, it’s perfect for a quick getaway to explore local crafts, stunning architecture, and sandy beaches.
Cape Winelands, South Africa
The Cape Winelands are stunning throughout the year, but fall (April to May) brings a unique charm. With warm and dry weather, the vineyards transform into a picturesque palette of yellow and orange against a backdrop of mountain ranges.
Asia
Asia, the largest continent, offers culturally rich and geographically diverse fall travel destinations.
Kyoto, Japan
Besides the beautiful autumn leaves, Kyoto hosts the Jidai Matsuri festival every October 22, which features a historical costume parade. After enjoying the afternoon parade, visit the nearby village of Kurama by train to experience the Kurama Fire Festival in the evening.
Nami Island, South Korea
For the best autumn colors, visit Nami Island from late October to early November. This secluded island is home to theme parks, making it an ideal child-friendly destination. You can also interact with various animals like Korean chipmunks and ostriches.
Oceania
Surrounded by oceans, Oceania offers unique fall experiences.
Fiji’s Chain of Islands
Fiji’s fall season, from December to April, is perfect for exploring its tropical landscapes. You can enjoy island-hopping, cultural performances, and delicious local cuisine. Be sure to visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and the picturesque Sabeto Valley.
Wanaka, New Zealand
Wanaka, a resort town on New Zealand’s South Island, is stunning in fall. Golden yellow trees flanking Lake Wanaka create a mesmerizing view. This town is also the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, which boasts glaciers, alpine lakes, and beech forests, making for an unforgettable fall adventure.
There are many more fall travel destinations waiting to be discovered. Instead of just reading about them, why not explore these places yourself? JoinMyTrip can help you plan an affordable and well-organized trip with travel buddies, so you don’t have to worry about itineraries or budget constraints. Curious?