1 Amsterdam
Why we love it
Forget the tulips of spring – Amsterdam blooms best in autumn, as leaves on the trees along the canals turn shades of brown and drop to unveil even better views of historic gables, beautiful canals and people immersed in cozy little coffee shops..
2 Barcelona
Why we love it
The heat dies down and the action picks up – autumn is a fantastic time to visit Barcelona, when the city comes alive with exciting events and exhibitions – and even food truck festivals.
Pay a visit around 1st November to celebrate la castanyada, an ancient celebration that used to honour the dead. You’ll have ample amounts of castanyada to try (delectable chestnuts,as well as “panellets” that are a typical Catalan pastry created for the occasion).
3 Berlin
Why we love it
Pay a visit to this hip city before the inevitable gloom of winter kicks in. In autumn, the beautiful parks are ideal for exploring – as well as renting bikes to get around. Make your way through the hues of reds and golds to the different arty districts – don’t forgetting a pitstop for street food falafel, of course.
4 Budapest
Why we love it
It’s tough to say goodbye to summer, but there’s plenty of reasons to visit Budapest in autumn – when life moves indoors but outdoor attractions still ooze appeal. Make the most of stunning terrace restaurants where gourmands can sip the night away, or spend the day at one of the city’s many exhibitions or art performances.
In winter, there’s even more to pull your heartstrings – with al-fresco skating on the lake in City Park and adorable Christmas markets selling traditional wooden toys and steaming cups of mulled wine, it’s a must-book for a cozy city getaway..
5 Copenhagen
Why we love it
Culture vultures should flock to this Danish city. One of Copenhagen’s main autumn highlights is Culture Night (October 12) when hundreds of museums, churches and other institutions open up access to behind-the-scenes areas, as well as special talks and exhibitions.
Whilst the shopping remains fantastic throughout the year, enjoy something spooky at Tivoli Gardens when the gardens morph into Halloween decor galore, before shifting to a festive feel two weeks later. Copenhagen’s dining scene is endless – whether it’s bistro or Michelin-starred mouthfuls you’re after, there’s something for everyone.
6 Dubrovnik
Why we love it
The hoards of summer tourists dissipate with tranquility taking their place. Prices drop, along with the scorching temperatures – making this Croatian hub the ideal place to stroll around or enjoy dinner in peace. Take a trip up Mount Srdj via cable car to marvel at outstanding sea views, then make your way to Stradan to enjoy Dubrovnik’s most stunning old town.
7 Florence
Why we love it
The apple of Italy’s eye, Florence is perfect for an autumnal escape. The fiery heat of summer fades – leaving mild weather until well into November. Explore exhibitions, pitstop for pizza, sip on the city’s finest wines and enjoy discounted prices around mid-October, along with dispersed crowds.