As the seasons start to turn, the outside world starts to darken a little earlier, the mornings get a little crisper and the leaves begin to brown and fall, and plenty more possibilities open up for some amazing autumnal getaways. Autumn is a season that inspires travellers to explore new destinations and possibilities. Whether you are an outdoorsy enthusiast, a culture nerd or a foodie in search of some seasonal delights, there is a destination to suit any taste. In this article, we will offer you some inspiration to kickstart you on a journey through some of the best destinations for an unforgettable autumn getaway in 2023.

Munich, Germany 

Munich is most famous for its Oktoberfest celebration, but beyond the beer tents, the city has much to offer at this time of year. For a start, it simply looks beautiful. The English Garden’s chestnut trees turn golden brown, perfect for breaking out the big coats and taking a romantic stroll through the falling leaves. Munich is also an amazing place to be in terms of architecture and culture, and it is certainly worth exploring the historic palaces, such as Nymphenburg. Once you’ve ticked this off the list, we recommend finding yourself a beer, some sausages and pretzels in a nice warm bar. Munich may not be the first place you would think of as an autumn getaway spot but it really is worth a visit in the autumn.

New England, USA

Of course, this list would not be complete without mentioning New England. New England is renowned for its spectacular look in the autumn and is a top destination for anyone who loves the beautiful ambers, reds and browns of falling leaves. The most popular spots are Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, all particularly famous for their stunning displays of red, orange and yellow leaves. New England is also home to some of the most scenic roads. We highly recommend taking a scenic drive along routes like the Kancamagus Highway, or have a wander around the small, enchanting towns like Stowe, Vermont. Autumn is also apple season, so why not sip on freshly pressed cider and go for some warm cider donuts in the orchards throughout the region.

Quebec City, Canada

Going to Quebec City is a bit like visiting a part of Europe in North America, and it’s especially enchanting at this time of year. The Old Town’s cobblestone streets are gilded with beautiful foliage, creating a particularly romantic atmosphere. Grab your best winter boots and coat, and go for a long stroll through town. There are plenty of places to find entertainment in Quebec City, from bars and betting spots to sports venues and festivals. Also, do not forget to visit the Montmorency Falls, which are actually higher and arguably more impressive than Niagara Falls. After that, you can warm up by enjoying a bowl of warm, maple syrup-infused pea soup.

Edinburgh, Scotland 

Edinburgh’s dramatic landscapes are even more impressive during the autumn. You have a vast array of options of landmarks to visit and a lot of entertainment to choose from. We recommend heading to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers panoramic view of the city’s autumnal beauty. Also, why not explore the historic Royal Mile and visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle. For food and drink, we recommend that you grab a bowl of Scotch broth to warm up and then head to a cosy pub for a pint.

Prague, Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a beautiful place to visit, regardless of where you go. In the autumn, you can find beauty everywhere, whether you’re a culture vulture or an outdoor thrill seeker. There is plenty of fun to be had, from gaming with your friends to rock climbing in the mountains. Prague is of course a must visit. Prague has a wealth of historic architecture that is even more enchanting when seen through the warm hues of autumn. We recommend exploring the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, with fewer tourists around at this time of year. The food of the Czech Republic seems to be made for the autumn weather, with traditional warming Czech dishes like goulash and svíčková. Also, the Czechs drink more beer per capita than anywhere else in the world, so you’ve got to try the beer and find out why.

Provence, France 

Of course, France has to make it onto this list. Provence is famous for its colourful lavender fields but it’s also an amazingly beautiful destination in the autumn. The best thing about Provence at this time of year is that the summer crowds have dissipated and the weather remains pleasant. Be sure to visit the charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon, and treat yourself to Provencal cuisine, featuring truffles, mushrooms and hearty stews.

Tuscany, Italy 

Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque vineyards take on a deeply magical quality at this time of year. The grape harvesting season, or ‘vendemmia’, will be in full swing, and there are plenty of opportunities to participate in wine tasting events at renowned wineries. Make a point of exploring the charming towns of Florence, Siena and San Gimignano, where you will find fewer crowds than in the summer months, giving these places a more local feel.

Autumn 2023 presents us with a wealth of opportunities to explore these captivating destinations that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and seasonal treats. Whether you are more drawn to the vibrant foliage of New England or the European charm of the Czech Republic, there is something for everyone in the autumn. Remember when you are packing your bags to include your cosy jumpers and big coats for the full autumn feeling, then get ready to make some lasting memories in these unforgettable destinations.