These four countries delight tourists with an “authentic autumn atmosphere”.
Tired of the exhausting summer heat, many tourists set off on a journey in search of autumn landscapes so they can admire the colorful foliage while wrapped in a blanket and sipping hot cocoa with marshmallows.
However, not all European countries, which are so large and diverse, are equally happy with the “authentic autumn atmosphere”.
The seasoned traveler Vinicius Costa, who has traversed the entire continent from end to end, named four European countries in his piece for Travel Off Path that are best suited for enjoying autumn colors.
“I’m counting the days until the weather becomes suitable for sweaters and a fireplace, and until I can escape to the mountains to enjoy the fresh, cool air. After more than eight years of solo travel around Europe and living in Paris, I simply couldn’t help but have a few favourite places for autumn getaways,” he noted.
1. Scotland
First and foremost, the expert advises paying attention to the Scottish Highlands – Gothic castles and viaducts, majestic mountains, gloomy valleys, and pristine waterfalls emerging amidst golden, orange, and crimson foliage beckon to romantic tourists.
For an urban autumn holiday in Scotland, Costa recommends heading to Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, or Stirling, while nature lovers should visit the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs national parks, as well as the Glencoe and Affric valleys.
2. Italy
Although many tourists appreciate Italy primarily for its coastal towns with pastel‑colored houses, the author of the piece favors the Dolomites – a rugged mountain range in the north of the country, which separates it from Austria.
Here, he advises paying attention to the mountain towns of Bressanone, Ortisei, Canazei, and San Candido, the Val di Funes resort, the Alpe di Siusi plateau, the Val Fiscalina valley, and Lake Braies.
3. Slovenia
The Julian Alps in Slovenia are still less popular, but no less magical. And the relatively low prices will be a pleasant bonus.
Kost recommends paying particular attention to the cities of Ljubljana, Bled, Radovljica, and Škofja Loka, as well as to the lakes Bled and Bohinj, and the Logar and Soča valleys.
4. Spain
Another popular European country that tourists primarily associate with summer, not autumn. Nevertheless, the mountainous terrain of Spain is excellent for an autumn trip.
The Picos de Europa mountain range is, in a way, Spain’s answer to the Alps, only wilder and less well‑maintained. The expert particularly recommends visiting the towns of Cangas de Onís, Potes, Covadonga and Sotres, as well as the Fuente‑De lift, the Covadonga lakes, the Cares gorge and the Valdón valley.
Konstantin is an acclaimed travel writer, celebrated for transforming ordinary journeys into extraordinary narratives. With years of experience exploring diverse destinations across the globe, his work blends vivid storytelling, cultural insights, and practical advice to inspire wanderlust and guide readers toward unforgettable adventures.
As a key contributor to enjoythetrip.org website, Konstantin has built a loyal readership through their expertise in uncovering both iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path treasures. He specializes in providing travelers with honest, actionable tips, whether it’s finding the best resorts in Maldives, exploring cultural hubs like Paris, or diving into the natural wonders of Croatia.