Alternative destinations in Europe that can offer you new and exciting experiences this autumn.
A trip to Europe is ideal for autumn. Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, Budapest and London are just some of the famous European cities at the forefront of traveldestinations for autumn - and not only- trips. If you are interested in an escape beyond the ordinary, there are many more options and destinations you may never have thought to visit. The destinations presented below offer abundant beauty, culture and attractions to satisfy even the most demanding traveler.
Algarve, Portugal
With striking coastlines, golden-red sands, picturesque villages and an excellent climate year-round, the Algarve is one of the most beautiful regions of Portugal and one of the most popular summer resorts in southern Europe. Early autumn is an outstanding time to get to know it, as the season’s warm temperatures let you enjoy the region’s stunning beaches without the summer crowds. Portugal’s southernmost province includes the cities of Faro, Lagos and Portimão and is the birthplace of the great navigator Bartolomeu Dias. The Algarve is also one of the best places in Portugal for family vacations, with many child-friendly beaches, water parks, etc.
Umbria, Italy
Umbria, Tuscany’s charming neighbor, offers a rich gastronomic experience to travelers. And autumn is the best season to savor it. Rolling hills and walled towns, such as Orvieto, Amelia and Narni, are bathed in golden light and free of crowds. Tables fill with wonderful local produce (lentils, beans and mushrooms, chestnuts and black truffles, saffron and olive oil from the latest harvest) and the grape harvest is in full swing. Now is the ideal time to follow the wine routes of the Strada del Sagrantino and visit vineyards and medieval villages for tastings. And then there’s... chocolate! In November, Umbria’s capital, Perugia, hosts Eurochocolate, a celebration for die-hard chocolate lovers.
Bordeaux, France
Victor Hugo once described it as the city with «the gentle horizon, the magnificent sky and the warmth of the sun you can’t help falling in love with». The French affectionately call it «la belle dormante», meaning «the Sleeping Beauty». Built on the banks of the Garonne, in southwestern France, Bordeaux is a city synonymous with fine wine. Annual production comes to 800 million bottles, while some labels rank among the most expensive in the world. In the region’s wineries you will discover beautiful cellars and taste exceptional wines. Bordeaux is also home to the world’s largest wine museum, La Cite du Vin, which opened in 2016.Beyond that, the city boasts more than 350 historic buildings and monuments worth seeing.
Transylvania, Romania
In the heart of Romania lies a place both alluring and enigmatic thatfires the imagination. With the Carpathian range as its naturalborder to the south and east, Transylvaniaisknown for the unrivaled beauty of its landscapes as well as its rich history. Dense forests, medieval towns, imposing castles, and the legend of Count Dracula captivate visitors. Transylvania looks wonderful as summer ends and the harvest festivals begin. Those who want a taste of life in a Romanian village can choose a farmstay for their accommodation. Autumn is the right time for a tour of the region’s historic towns, starting with Cluj-Napoca and continuing with Sibiu, Brasov and Sighisoara. The area also has surprises for driving enthusiasts: the hairpin-packed Transfagarasan road is a challenge for drivers and introduces visitors to landscapes of unique beauty.
