The 6 Best Autumn Destinations in Europe

adminonJune 5, 2023July 26, 2023Leave a Comment

Great insider tips for an autumn vacation in Europe

Summer may be over – but it's by no means the time for a perfect vacation. Europe also offers many exciting places and experiences in autumn and the advantage: it is not too hot to be active all around. That's why we've picked out for you the 6 best autumn destinations in Europe. With our tips, nothing stands in the way of your autumn vacation. Let's go.

1. Hidden gem in Europe, San Marino

San Marino is a true insider's tip in Europe. With 33.000 inhabitants, San Marino is the 3. smallest country in Europe but very much in the lead when it comes to what there is to discover. San Marino is the perfect place for a short weekend trip and should definitely be on your travel list for the best autumn destinations in Europe. Marvel at breathtaking views of fairytale castles and picturesque villages. If you want to see San Marino from above, grab a gondola and enjoy the view from a bird's eye view!

Dreamlike fairy-tale castle in San Marino surrounded by a colorful autumn forest

2. Natural beauty, Slovakia

Breathtaking views, impressive landscapes and beautiful nature – you will find all this in Slovakia. Every season has its own charm, but autumn is especially worth seeing. It bathes the landscape in warm autumn colors and it's just the perfect time to discover all that Slovakia is about. Get your hiking boots out of the closet and explore the land. Our recommendation is the Slovak Paradise National Park, the name speaks for itself. It is also worth to explore the south and the center of the country by car. Especially the vineyards leave a breathtaking impression during the golden season.

Why don't you go and see for yourselves? Start planning your trip today with JoinMyTrip and find cool travel buddies for your Slovakia adventure!

Crystal clear lake at the foot of a mountain in Slovakia, a great fall destination in Europe

3. Underestimated Slovenia

As the seasons change, so do the hues of the trees to a warm mix of reds, oranges and yellows throughout the country. See for yourself and visit Lake Bled for a truly magical experience of European autumn. Also worth a visit is the Vintgar Gorge, where you can hike along the Radovna River. Ljubljana, the beautiful capital of Slovenia, transmits a lively, youthful flair. You can explore the various sights and museums or just sit in a café and watch some people. Slovenia is generally a cheaper destination in Europe and is often underestimated. Therefore, it is not on the top of the list for many people. In the low season it becomes even more affordable, although it has so much to offer. This enchanting country is a must for your European autumn trip 2020 and therefore on our list for the best autumn destinations in Europe.

4. Culture-rich Bulgaria

Bulgaria is one of the oldest countries in Europe and a very popular destination especially during the summer months because of its beautiful beaches and rich culture. The summer months are very popular and therefore often crowded, making Bulgaria the perfect autumn destination. Autumn in Bulgaria is absolutely breathtaking; the dramatic mountain ranges, the clear blue beaches and the picturesque historic cities. Be sure to visit the cities of Varna and Burgas or hike through the largest national park in Standzha. Another option is to discover the country and its picturesque villages within a bicycle tour or to climb in the impressive rock formations.

If you are not sure about the Corona location of your desired destination? Then take a look at our Corona Newsticker. This provides you daily with the latest news.

If you're already excited, explore JoinMyTrip and create your own fall trip to Bulgaria. In the community you will find fellow travelers quickly and easily.

Picturesque bay at sunset off Bulgaria, one of the 6 best fall destinations in Europe

5. Idyllic Greece

A vacation in Greece in autumn is the ideal opportunity to get a deeper insight into Greek culture. The bonus of visiting in the fall is that there are fewer people roaming the streets, the cost is lower, and the climate is milder. You can experience Greece in a more authentic way, in peace and without too much tourism.

See Athens and its ancient ruins in pleasant temperatures and without long waits. You can also rent a boat and explore the spectacular islands. If you are a hiking enthusiast, then take advantage of the ideal hiking climate and set out on the trail through the idyllic terrain. Whether on the mainland or on one of the many larger and smaller islands, you're guaranteed an unforgettable time there with your Greece travel partner in fall 2020. Our insider tips: Naxos and Paros! These islands can only be reached by ferry and are therefore even less touristy!

Greek coastal town set against turquoise blue waters

6. Beautiful Portugal

Portugal is a popular vacation destination here in Europe all year round due to its warm and dry climate. Even throughout the fall, the climate here is pleasant, making you feel like you're still on vacation. You can enjoy the beautiful weather without sweating in the summer heat.

The beauty of Portugal is that there is definitely something for everyone to discover. Do you like city trips and sightseeing? Then Lisbon, Sintra and Porto are worth a visit. Fall is a great time of year to really experience these cities because you can stroll, sightsee and soak in the culture all at the same time without being bothered by prolonged queuing. In the south at the Algarve beautiful bays and beaches wait for you and your Portugal travel partner. In addition, there are many places that offer the perfect surf spots. Grab your surfing travel partner and surf the perfect waves in Nazaré, Ericeira, Peniche and the Algarve. Particularly impressive in autumn is also the Douro region. Here you can do very nice hikes, visit small towns and take part in wine tastings!

Amidst the narrow streets of Lisbon in Portugal, a small yellow streetcar runs

Vacation in Germany, vacation at home. Why not? We give you the best tips on the way for your perfect travel experience in Germany.

Whether it's our lively hometown of Berlin, with its cultural diversity, famous nightlife and vibrant history, or Bavaria, with beautiful nature, the impressive Alps and Bavarian tradition – Germany has a lot to offer. Mountains, sea, metropolises, history, castles, old towns.

In our Germany travel blog we have compiled the best travel tips & the most beautiful sites of our home country for you!

Info at a glance:

Discover all destinations in Germany:

The famous medieval idyll in Franconia (Bavaria).

World cultural heritage, but not standing still in time. A lively city in Franconia.

A mix of modernity and history, Bavarian tradition and multiculturalism.

Famous for its castle ruins towering over the old town on the Neckar River.

Our best hotel experiences

Romantic overnight stay directly at the Markus tower

Sleep comfortably in the old town of Heidelberg.

Sleeping in the old town. Our experience with Hotel Molitor in Bamberg.

More travel tips about Germany

You want to travel through Germany and are looking for a good travel guide? Here you will get help!

Here we give you an introduction to "Vacationing in Germany". You will be amazed at what Germany has to offer!

What are the most popular vacation regions in Germany?

In Germany, in addition to the cities worth seeing, there are many beautiful regions that are just waiting to be traveled to.

Baltic Sea

The good old Baltic Sea is one of the most famous vacation destinations in Germany. Miles of idyllic sandy beaches, romantic bays, beautiful islands, pure sea air and national parks.

Not only relaxation seekers, but also active vacationers get their money's worth and can, for example, kite or windsurf.

Popular Baltic Sea islands

The largest German island of Rügen
Usedom as the second largest island
Fehmarn as a paradise for water sports enthusiasts
Fischland-Darß-Zingst

Popular Baltic Sea resorts

Kühlungsborn
Timmendorfer beach
Warnemünde
picturesque hanseatic cities like Greifswald, Kiel, Rostock or Stralsund

Warnemünde-Fans – By the way, we are Warnemünde-Fans. For us Berliners the place is easy to reach. Once a year in the low season we visit Warnemünde. Spend the night in the legendary Hotel Neptun.

What are the seaside attractions at the Baltic Sea?

Chalk cliffs and Cape Arkona on the island of Rügen
Königsstuhl and National Park on Jasmund
Imperial resorts Ahlbeck, Heringsdorf and Bansin on Usedom
Ahlbeck pier
Schwerin Castle
Stralsund Oceanum

North Sea

The North Sea, which is in no way inferior to the Baltic Sea in terms of natural beauty, has many enchanting islands, for example:

The mainland with medieval towns like Bremerhaven or Cuxhaven is also popular. The region fascinates with long sandy beaches, dikes, the Wadden Sea, tranquil harbor towns and beautiful Frisian villages like Friedrichstadt.

Popular destinations are:

Animal park Tinnum on the North Frisian island Sylt
North Sea Aquarium Borkum
Duhnen Ship Museum in Cuxhaven
Atlanticum in Bremerhaven
West Coast Park in St. Peter-Ording

Black Forest

The Black Forest, the largest contiguous German low mountain range in the southwest of Baden-Württemberg, is another well-known and popular vacation region that offers a lot of nature and recreation.

The resorts await their visitors with dense forests, mountain landscapes, hiking trails and picturesque lakes. The climate of the Black Forest is beneficial for health. The southern Black Forest is home to the beautiful town of Titisee-Neustadt and Lake Titisee, which is one of the largest low mountain lakes in Germany.

The 1.493 meters high Feldberg is the highest mountain in this country and offers a fantastic view. Freiburg im Breisgau, the sunny Black Forest metropolis and 'capital of the Black Forest', is also worth a visit with its landmark cathedral.

Lake Constance

In the versatile region at the edge of the Alps, relaxation and activity vacationers in particular get their money's worth. Dreamlike beaches, enchanting islands, impressive medieval towns and all around fascinating alpine panorama, this is characteristic for Lake Constance.

Cities like Constance or Lindau and the island Mainau, the wonderful flower island in Lake Constance, are worthwhile excursion destinations.

The Harz, the highest mountain range in northern Germany, delights nature lovers and hikers with its dense spruce and beech forests, flora and fauna rich in species and impressive panoramic landscapes in and around the many nature parks.

The highest mountain is the Brocken, which offers a fantastic view.

The Harz National Park protects the sparse high moors. Idyllic towns can be found in the eastern part of the island. Quedlinburg, for example, is a World Heritage Site and impresses with its medieval charm.

Other places worth seeing are:

For action lovers the Rappbode dam is perfect. Here is the spectacular suspension bridge and the longest zipline in Europe. Below the bridge it is possible to plunge into the depths in tandem.

Top 10 most popular destinations in Germany

1. Berlin

The modern, colorful and historic capital of Germany is a paradise for shopping, going out and exploring diverse culture.

The history of the metropolis is very eventful, which is reflected in numerous historical sights.

Highlights include the Brandenburg Gate, which stands in Berlin Mitte and is an important landmark. It once divided East and West Berlin and nowadays stands for reunification.

Other places of interest include:

A fascinating contrast are the many parks, green spaces and bodies of water such as the Wannsee or Müggelsee, which invite you to relax and linger.

2. Spreewald in Brandenburg

The Spreewald, located in the southeast of Brandenburg less than an hour from Berlin, delights with a picturesque fairy-tale landscape. Visitors can take a punt, which is the main mode of transportation in the Spreewald, and explore the area.

Nature lovers are in the right place. The biosphere reserve reveals a dreamlike hiking area that leads through deciduous forests and along lagoon-like waterways.

The heart is formed by the two towns of Lübben and Lübbenau with their half-timbered houses.

Worthwhile excursion destinations include:

Sauna village and castle Lübbenau
Spreewald thermal bath
Spreewald mill in Burg
Tropical Islands near Krausnick

3. Hamburg

Hamburg captivates with a very special charm, an impressive history, many cultural institutions and more than 2.500 bridges like the Elbbrücken. The Hanseatic city has numerous sights, for example impressive buildings from different eras.

City Hall, which dates back to the Neo-Renaissance period.

Elbphilharmonie as a landmark
Speicherstadt, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site
Harbor City
Reeperbahn

Hamburg is also one of the most important musical locations in Germany. There are also green areas and parks throughout the city, such as the Alsterpark.

4. Allgäu

The Allgäu Alps are wonderful to discover while hiking or biking. The fantastic mountains, the alpine panorama and the crystal clear lakes are impressive.

Among the most important sights are the magnificent Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle. The beautiful Forggensee, picturesquely situated below Neuschwanstein Castle, is the fifth largest lake in Bavaria. The Allgäu Alps are also home to popular winter sports resorts such as Oberstdorf, whose ski jump is the annual stop for the Four Hills Tournament.

5. Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is the third largest city in Germany and is known for its impressive architecture.

Famous sights include:

Marienplatz square with many Gothic buildings such as St. Peter's Church
St. Michael's Church, which dates back to the Renaissance period
Hofbräuhaus
Viktualienmarkt

Nearby there are many magnificent royal castles.

6. Saxon Switzerland

Typical for Saxon Switzerland are the fascinating sandstone cliffs. They significantly shape the landscape, so the area is very popular with climbers.

Hiking and cycling enthusiasts also get their money's worth with many spectacular routes. Table mountains, plateaus, rocky reefs, rocky outcrops, forests and the Elbe Valley, all of which are characteristic of the region.

The highest mountain is the Großer Zschirnstein with 562 meters. A trip to the Bastei with the beautiful Bastei Bridge is worthwhile. This is a rock formation that has a viewing platform.

7. Dresden

During the Second World War the city was almost completely destroyed, but nowadays Dresden with its many historic buildings is definitely worth a visit.

The world famous sights include:

Church of Our Lady
Semper Opera House- Residence Palace
Zwinger
New town and old town

8. Mecklenburg Lake District

The area is located between Schwerin and Neubrandenburg. Hundreds of lakes combine in the lakeland. Together with the rivers and canals, a huge water network is created.

With the Müritz, Germany's largest lake, the region is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts. It can be wonderfully explored by boats, yachts, a canoe or on rafts.

The network of biking and hiking trails also offers ideal opportunities. Beautiful towns like Waren, Rechlin and Röbel are among the most popular destinations.

There are many sights such as:

Müritz National Park
Brick churches
Half-timbered houses
Castles
Castles
Churches like the Marienkirche
Water and wind mills
Mounds and stone tombs

9. Cologne

Cologne, the metropolis on the Rhine, is famous for its legendary carnival, but also has a variety of sights to offer.

Cologne Cathedral, 157 meters high, which offers an indescribable panoramic view from the top
Rhine promenade with banks and beautiful museums
Place Rodenkirchen with fine sandy beaches
Rheinauhafen with famous crane houses
Chocolate Museum

10. Bavarian Forest

The Bavarian Forest stretches along the Czech border and fascinates with endless forests, imposing mountain peaks and small mountain lakes.

The well-developed hiking and biking trails are ideal for exploring the region. The high rope parks and summer toboggan runs are worthwhile excursions for the whole family. Also worth a visit are the historic cities of Passau and Regensburg, the Bohemian Forest, the Czech capital Prague and the Sumava National Park.

Tip – our favorite region in Germany – By the way, our heart beats for Bavaria in Germany. We liked it especially well in the Berchtesgadener Land. Idyllic places, good food and in the middle of the mountains. What more could you want?

Bavaria sights Koenigssee

You have already been on the road many times in Europe and have seen a lot? If you would like to discover a new region, then we can only recommend a houseboat vacation in Ontario, Canada. Combine a visit to the capital Ottawa with beautiful Kingston on the shores of the Great Lakes with a trip on the Rideau Canal.

Lakes at the Rideau Canal

Whereby the term "canal" is actually misleading, because only a few of the 202km length are really man-made. For the most part, only short stretches of canal connect the rivers or lakes together. Despite or because of this, the Rideau Canal was and still is a technical masterpiece and deservedly belongs to the UNESCO world cultural heritage. This puts it on par with the Colosseum in Rome or Stonehenge in England.

We've compiled our top 5 highlights for your Canadian vacation on North America's longest continuously operating canal, the Rideau Canal, here:

North or south
Lakes and islands
Water sports
Fishing
Locks

1. North or south? You have the choice.

Our departure base in Smiths Falls is located in the middle of the Rideau Canal and from here you can start either north or south, depending on what you would like to experience on your Canadian vacation.

The northern tour

For all lovers of canals and rivers and local handicrafts, a drive towards Ottawa is a must. Along the Nature Lovers Tour your vacation will take you through beautiful landscapes. Take the chance to dock at one of the secluded locks like Kilmarnock and watch the deer graze in the morning.

Also plan a stop in Merrickville and stroll through the small town. Even if you're not a shopping fan, this place will delight you with its arts and crafts. Here you will certainly find a lot of things, but no common shops.

At the end of the canal, the capital of Canada, Ottawa, awaits you. You can dock right in the heart of the city within walking distance of Parliament Hill and explore the city. If you haven't had your fill of locks and boats, visit the Ottawa Locks, an impressive set of locks picturesquely nestled between Parliament and the historic Château Laurier Hotel. Other attractions include museums and galleries and, of course, the ByWard Market, a lively restaurant and bar district.

The Southern Tour

If you like to experience the vastness of the Canadian landscape on your vacation, then the southbound route is ideal for you. On the way to Seeley's Bay you can decide for yourself in which of the sweet places to stop.

How about a side trip to Perth for example? It's worth it, because the city is known for its beer and there is always something going on in the Irish Pubs. If you want to do another round of shopping, stop in Westport or Newboro. Some exciting and fancy stores are waiting here, like Kilborn's. The shopping munchies can hike up Foley Mountain and enjoy the view in the meantime.

Westport

Strengthen yourself on the further journey in the restaurant of the Oppinicon at Chaffeys Lockstation for the next stage or with one (or two) drinks on the terrace at the lake or with a big ice cream.

Fancy a longer tour? Then drive on to Kingston. On the shores of Lake Ontario, the town's boardwalk is a great place to stroll, and Thousand Island, a nature park in the st. St. Lawrence Stream, is definitely worth a trip. Or stroll through the market and discover the "City of Prisons" and its history on a walking tour of the city.

PS: If you can't decide, head just a bit north, z.B. to Merrickville and then turn around and also explore the lake area south of Smiths Falls.

2. Canadian lakes and islands – what a panoramic view

The lakes with their "fringed", tree-lined shores are an absolute highlight of the Rideau Canal vacation area. You have a wide view over the water and an undisturbed feeling, because you meet only few other boats.

The Lakes of the Rideau Canal from Above

The many islands (292 to be exact) look as if someone had spread them like sprinkles on a cake and make the lakes look even more exciting because you never know exactly what will appear behind the next island. But you have to pay more attention to the navigation, because the next marker is sometimes a bit further away. So keep your eyes open. But no need to worry, you are guaranteed to relax in this part of Canada.

Especially if you drop anchor in the evening and spend the night in one of the countless bays, away from the towns and alone under the starry sky, without any neighbors lying on the beach. Anchoring is a very special feeling that makes your houseboat vacation in Canada something very special, because you can only experience this in one other cruising area, in Germany.

3. Water sports – cooling down?

Where you can anchor, of course, you can also do great water sports. The lakes in this part of Canada are crystal clear and invite for swimming. Jump directly from the boat into the water or book one of our optional extras and paddle with kayaks or standup paddleboards through the nature of Canada. At many jetties you will also find bathing ladders and of course your houseboat also has a ladder so that you can easily get back on board at any time. This is how a boating vacation in Canada becomes a highlight for water rats! When you dock along the way, ask local people for their tips on the best places and bays to anchor and swim.

4. Fishing in Canada – dinner is waiting

Whether you're already an avid angler or want to give it a try. At the Rideau Canal lakes full of fish invite you to catch your own dinner. There is a reason why many Americans cross the border to Canada to fish in their boats during their summer vacation.

One of the best areas for fishing are the lakes around Seeley's Bay. At the town jetty you can spend a relaxing night (included in the booking) and set off on your fishing trips from here.

Of course you also need a fishing license during your vacation on the Rideau waterways. You can get them, for example, at the Rideau Breeze Marina nearby. Right next to the pier Shane White runs his store with fishing supplies (Fish and Fur), where you can get your license. On request you can also hire a local guide who will show you insider tips and the best fishing spots in the area. Good luck!

5. Locks on the Rideau Canal – history at your fingertips

Lock near Smiths Falls

Whether you're an experienced houseboat captain or a newcomer on board, you'll love the locks along the Rideau Canal. They are usually much higher than in Europe and always perfectly maintained, because at each lock station 2-4 lockkeepers take care of the lock and the boat vacationers. They take the ropes, operate the locks and bring you relaxed and safe through the up to 8 lock chambers at a time.

Nowhere do past and present mix like at the locks, because even today all lock gates are still made of wood, which is processed in our base town Smiths Falls. And the iron fittings are still handmade like 200 years ago. Visit the blacksmith at Jones Falls lock station and watch him work. He will also be happy to tell you more about his work.

The boats – our Canada fleet

Family on the Horizon boat

Le Boat brings a fleet of the newest boats to the Rideau Canal. Horizon boats accommodate from two to 10 people. They are luxuriously & modernly equipped and can be easily steered with the bow and stern thruster. All boats feature a spacious salon, separate sleeping cabins, showers with hot and cold running water, and fully equipped kitchens. From cutlery and crockery to bed linen and towels everything is ready on board.