We all love summer (blazing hot sunshine, clear blue skies – who wouldn’t?) but that doesn’t mean there’s not so much to love about Autumn too – in fact, there’s plenty of places that are well worth visiting this time of year!
September through to November is often known as shoulder season, and are in fact some of the best months of the year to travel! It’s a time when the crazy summer crowds thin out and temperatures often go from too hot to totally pleasant, and often there’s a drop in prices too as the summer holidays drift off into the distance. That means you can hit bucket list spots on a budget – win-win!
We think these are the perfect places to visit in Autumn – which one would you most like to visit?
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam is a pretty city all year round – but there’s something even more beautiful about it when stunning shades of yellow, red and orange embellish the streets, as leaves float along the winding canals.
The wharf cellars used in times gone by to create an inner city harbour are one of a kind throughout the world, and today they have been transformed into cosy cafes, bars, restaurants and even shops. So there’s always plenty of spots at hand to pop into for a quick drink to warm up if you’re a bit nippy!
The two best ways to see this city are on boat and bike. Head down a canal with an array of colourful leaves floating over your head, with the unusual style buildings passing you by seeming to match this time of year perfectly. Or wrap up and whizz about on a bike – there’s so much to see and do, you’ll never want to stop pedalling!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Another city break perfect for this time of year is Reykjavic in Iceland. Fresh air, fantastic sights and the freedom to explore. Think glistening glaciers and wonderful waterfalls, all amidst an autumnal landscape before the real chill of winter sets in.
If you can hold out until November, when the nights are a little longer and darker, you might even be within a chance of spotting the famous Northern Lights too! Prepare to be truly mesermised as the sky lights up with a surreal selection of magical colours. You don’t get this in summer!
Not only are the prices a little lower this time of year, but so are the crowds! Take in all the city itself has to offer – immerse yourself in this country’s Nordic roots, all wrapped up in contemporary style. And you can even treat yourself to spa day like no other at the mineral-rich Blue Lagoon to top it all off!
New York
Autumn lovers will be in their element on a city break to The Big Apple. Get ready to breathe in the crisp air of Central Park as you take in the sight of orangey-red leaves scattered around as far as the eye can see. It’s like something out of a fairytale!
Americans go big on just about anything, but especially when it comes to Autumn (or as you’ll hear it known as in the US, fall). Think pumpkin-spiced treats on every corner and OTT Halloween decorations. New York never fails to amaze!
There’s always so much to do in this city, and there’s even more amazing things to tick off when you visit this time of year. Think one-of-a-kind Halloween events, carnivals, and even the New York Film Festival too!
Many would say it’s the perfect time to visit weather wise – you can enjoy all your exploring in pleasant temperatures, avoiding the heat of summer and the snow of winter. This iconic trip needs to be on your calendar!
Or if you’d still like a bit of sunshine…
Rome
Rome is a place that resides on most people’s bucket lists, and for good reason! From chucking a coin into the trickling Trevi Fountain to being in awe as you make your way around the curves of the Colosseum, it’s one place you simply have to visit!
September and October are especially great months to visit the Eternal City – the blazing heat of summer has subsided leaving much more pleasant temperatures to explore. The Italian capital is much less crowded, so you can see all the sights without the long queues too.
Park yourself up outside the Pantheon with an Aeperol spritz, soak up all the culture around you, and don’t forget to tuck into the best pizza and pasta in the world while you’re at it. If you’re looking to extend your summer with a city break, this is it!
Ibiza
If you’re really not ready to wave goodbye to summer yet, then a trip to Ibiza this time of year could be just the ticket. Being known as the party capital of Europe over the summer, the island takes a very different turn from September onwards as the famous DJ’s disperse and the clubs shut their doors for the season.
With pleasant temperatures still on the cards, experience Ibiza like a local, visiting less touristy spots like splendid Santa Eularia des Riu. Ibiza Town is simply stunning and well worth a visit too – make sure to walk up to the castle for unparalleled panoramic views. And don’t forget to check out the mesmerising sight of Es Vedra!
We can’t think of any better way to wrap up summer than by sitting on a quiet beach with a glass of sangria, soaking up the sunset – and you’re never short of amazing ones in Ibiza.
Where will you go in autumn?
These are just a few of our favourites – but there’s so many options to enjoy a brilliant getaway this time of year! Get searching for your exciting escape now.