There’s nothing quite like traveling in the fall. The temperatures are mild, there are fewer crowds, and the fall colors make for some truly breathtaking scenery.
The trick is knowing where to travel at this quieter time of year. While many places are all but dead after summer, others are still vibrant places to visit, with plenty to do and see.
So, if you plan on taking a trip this fall, we’ve rounded up six under-the-radar fall travel destinations that promise to be the trip of a lifetime this autumn.
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1. Aarhus, Denmark
Named the European City of Culture, Aarhus is still under the radar as Denmark’s second city. It’s filled with unbelievable galleries and museums, not to mention the Your Rainbow Panorama, a multicolored glass walkway on top of the ARoS museum.
Aarhus is particularly beautiful in the fall. The Deer Park, just south of the city center, comes to life with vibrant autumn colors, and you can get up close and personal with sika and fallow deer.
“One of the best parts about Aarhus is the markets. The Aarhus Street Food Market is perfect for foodies, and there are plenty of artisans to go gift shopping for loved ones.” – Duy Vo from Sandjest
There’s a beautiful canal winding through the center with cafes and eateries dotted along it. In the fall, you can grab a blanket and a hot cup of Glogg and sit outside to see the pretty fall colors.
2. Coral Bay, Cyprus
If you prefer somewhere warm when the weather starts turning chilly in autumn, Coral Bay in Cyprus is a beautiful yet quiet place to escape.
Thanks to the Eastern Mediterranean location, Cyprus is warm and sunny all through the fall, with daytime temperatures reaching 70 until the end of November.
On the island’s west coast, you’ll find stunning sandy beaches with calm water and beach umbrellas to relax under.
“Paphos is one of my favorite places in Cyprus. It’s only a small town, but you’ll find incredible Greek meze, rooftop terraces overlooking the ocean, and friendly locals.” – Wayne Kask from Always on the Shore
If you love the warmer weather, Cyprus is the perfect place to go and enjoy an endless summer.
3. Scotland, UK
Heading to Scotland after the summer and before the bitter winter months is the best of both worlds. Crowds thin out, and the temperatures are still comfortable. Not to mention, the breathtaking scenery becomes awash with red, burnt orange, and dark, mossy green.
If you’re looking for truly unbelievable scenery, head to the Loch Lomond area, Highland Perthshire, and Deeside. You’ll get panoramic vistas of untouched countryside and woodland.
“If you’re a keen golfer, don’t miss Dunbar Golf Club in Lothian. Fall is the perfect time to visit; the courses are quiet, the scenery is beautiful, and you’ll get to play right along the shoreline and the old red sandstone deer park wall.” – Erin Blakely from Senior Golf Source
Although it’s not bitterly cold in Scotland until the winter, rainfall is much more common in the fall, so pack your parka and walking boots to stay warm and cozy while you travel.
4. Brunswick Islands, North Carolina
There is no better time than the fall to visit North Carolina. The expansive landscapes transform with vibrant shades of crimson, orange, and yellow, and there are plenty of scenic drives to help you explore.
“The Brunswick Islands are perfect for exploring quaint barrier towns in the fall, and there are some fantastic freshwater fishing opportunities! If you’re feeling up to the challenge, you could even sign up for the US Open King Mackerel Tournament.” – Eric Matechak from Freshwater Fishing
The Blue Ridge Mountains are a must-see when visiting North Carolina in the fall, or there are some stunning remote wilderness areas for anyone looking for a fall adventure.
5. Montreal, Canada
Paris is beautiful in the fall, but it’s also incredibly crowded and a pretty long transatlantic flight. Luckily, you can experience the magic and delicious food with a much shorter trip to Montreal, Canada.
Stroll down cobblestone streets in the Old Port area and duck into one of the many incredible restaurants for out-of-this-world food. Poutine is a must-try when the weather is chilly – thick beef gravy on French fries with French cheese curds.
The weather in Montreal is pleasant during the fall, so you’ll be able to enjoy the culture without turning blue with cold. But pack a snuggly jacket and some decent boots – temperatures still drop to around 36F.
6. Sicily, Italy
Last but by no means least is Sicily in Italy. Despite more frequent rain showers, Scility is still relatively warm in the fall but not as hot as in the summer months. This gives you the perfect chance to explore the white sandy beaches, welcoming restaurants, and incredible archaeological sites without the crowds.
“Picciolo Etna Golf Course is one of the best in Europe. It sits within Mount Etna Nature Park in Sicily, giving you the chance to golf your way through ancient lava flows.” – Matt Stevens from Golf Workout Program
Of course, you can’t visit Sciliy without seeing Mount Etna. Luckily for you, the fall may be the best time to visit. The trees turn beautiful shades of orange and red, while the volcano produces some of the most intense flavors of local produce during this season.
From the enticing local restaurants to the sophisticated wineries, everything feels like it comes to life in Sciliy in the fall.
What Are Your Favorite Fall Travel Destinations?
Summer might be the most popular time to travel, but autumn is definitely the best. Fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and stunning fall colors make this time of year truly magical.
It’s easy to beat the crowds by heading to one of our under-the-radar destinations, but there are plenty of places all around the world that come to life in the fall. What’s on your fall travel bucket list?