Where to travel in the fall

If you’re into epic views, crisp air, and fewer crowds, fall is the ultimate time to visit the U.S. national parks. Think: golden aspens in Zion, cool hikes through Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos, and perfect photo ops without the summer stampede. On our Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & U.S. National Parks tour, you’ll hit some of the Southwest’s most jaw-dropping parks and kick things off with one of the most surreal sights in the country: hundreds of hot-air balloons rising over New Mexico’s desert at sunrise.

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early October is pure magic—colorful, quirky, and totally unforgettable. There are so many amazing things to know about the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, and one of them is that it’s the only ballon festival in the world where you can walk in-between the balloons. Add in other experiences like having a conversation with a Navajo code talker, walking through sandstone canyons, and taking a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, and you’ve got one of the best autumn travel experiences around. If you’re looking for unique fall getaways or are planning where to go for a little off-peak adventure, this one should be at the top of your list.

Everyone talks about cherry blossom season in Japan, but locals know that fall foliage travel might be even better. In Kyoto, autumn is all about momijigari, the centuries-old tradition of “chasing red leaves.” Come late October into November, the city transforms into a living canvas of fiery maples and golden ginkgos, especially around spots like Temple of the Golden Pavilion and Nijo Castle.

Join our Highlights of Japan: Tokyo to Kyoto tour to experience this seasonal ritual like a pro—camera in one hand, warm sweet potato snack in the other. Cooler temps, thinner crowds, and postcard-worthy views around every corner make Kyoto a fall favorite for those in the know. For cultural depth, color-drenched scenery, and truly iconic autumn travel, this is one of the most rewarding fall vacation ideas out there.

Southern Spain in the fall is chef’s kiss. The summer heat finally breaks and the cities come alive in a whole new way—without the crowds. If you’re deciding where to travel in the fall, Andalusia offers a front-row seat to flamenco season in Seville, the Feria de San Miguel in Ubeda (a festival where locals celebrate their town’s roots), and the start of olive harvest season across the countryside.

On our Journey through Andalusia: Seville, Granada & Malaga tour, you’ll stroll through the Alhambra’s gardens framed by golden leaves. Indulge in seasonal favorites like salmorejo (a thicker, creamier cousin of gazpacho, perfect for cooler weather) and setas al ajillo (wild mushrooms sauteed in garlic and olive oil), both of which show up on tapas menus as soon as autumn hits. Crisp evenings set the mood for rooftop drinks in Malaga or a sunset flamenco show in Granada’s Albaicin. As far as fall travel destinations go, this one’s packed with flavor, rhythm, and just the right amount of sunshine. Need more reasons to go? Check out the best things to do and see in Southern Spain.

Covered bridges surrounded by foliage, crisp mornings, and maple everything—there’s a reason why fall in New England is basically the blueprint for autumn vibes. On our New England: Vermont, Maine Coast & Massachusetts tour, you’ll explore the region at its coziest and most colorful. In Vermont, step inside a working sugar shack to sample warm maple syrup and fresh cider doughnuts straight from the source. Drive along the legendary Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, where mountainsides explode in red, orange, and gold. This is fall foliage travel at its most breathtaking.

The cool, dry weather makes it ideal for exploring. Layer up for coastal walks in Maine or a stroll along Boston’s Freedom Trail without breaking a sweat. Along the way, dig into seasonal favorites like creamy clam chowder and lobster rolls with a fall twist. (Locals usually opt for a cold lobster roll with mayo, but we won’t judge if you tuck into a toasty roll of herbed lobster drenched in warm butter once the temps drop). When you travel with us to New England in the fall, you’ll also stop in Salem, Massachusetts, where Halloween energy is at an all-time high.

If the northern lights are on your bucket list, Iceland is one of the best places to travel in fall. To make that dream a reality, go on our Iceland: Reykjavik & the Northern Lights tour. Thanks to Iceland’s high latitude, you’ll have a front-row seat to nature’s most dazzling light show, especially around the autumn equinox when geomagnetic activity peaks. Wondering where and when to see the aurora borealis? We’ve done the hard work and uncovered the best places to visit in 2024 and 2025 to see the northern lights.

Fall is the start of aurora-hunting season—not too cold, not too crowded, and full of moody Icelandic charm. Average temps hover in the mid-50s, and while the skies can shift from clear to dramatic in a flash, that only adds to the atmosphere. Venture beyond Reykjavik for darker skies and even bigger light shows. Preparing for a northern lights tour by packing lots of layers will help you feel set up for success once you hit the road. Beyond the aurora, fall is ideal for exploring Iceland’s fjords, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes with fewer crowds and surreal sunsets. Not sure if this is your season? Here’s your season-by-season guide to visiting Iceland.

On our Food & Wine: Flavors of Tuscany & Umbria tour, you’ll get a true taste of autumn in Italy. We’re talking golden vineyards and warm coccoli, irresistible fried dough puffs stuffed with prosciutto and stracchino cheese, fresh from the pan in Florence. When you travel to Italy in the fall, book it straight to Florence’s Mercato Centrale and Sant’Ambrogio Market, where fall’s bounty spills from every stall. You’ll find earthy porcini mushrooms and just-crushed olive oil—some of the iconic Italian foods to try that taste better in the offseason. When it’s time to toast, we’ll take you to Montalcino to sip Brunello steps from where the grapes were grown.

Fall in Tuscany isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about slowing down and savoring the season like a local. Interactive cooking classes turn rustic kitchens into memory-making spaces where flour flies and pasta is made by hand. And the wine tastings? They’re not just sips, they’re stories—shared by the people who have spent generations tending the vines. If you’re wondering where to travel in the fall to truly connect with a place through its flavors, Tuscany tops the list.

Looking for fresh fall vacation ideas that combine lively cities, stunning beaches, and vibrant wildlife? Our Brazil: Rio de Janeiro, Paraty & Sao Paulo tour hits all the right notes. In autumn, the wetlands around Paraty come alive with active wildlife, making it a prime time for nature lovers to spot exotic birds and playful capybaras. Meanwhile in Rio, the beaches buzz with energy, but without the oppressive summer humidity. This means you can relax on sunny shores and catch vibrant sunsets after the summer heat has faded and crowds have gone home.

In Sao Paulo, the vibrant Liberdade neighborhood, home to the world’s largest Japanese diaspora, offers a fascinating cultural blend. Wander down its bustling streets and explore hidden shops, markets, and tea houses before gathering for an included lunch. Fall’s mild temperatures and lower humidity make exploring this dynamic city even more enjoyable, allowing you to savor every moment of your autumn travel adventure in Brazil’s southeastern heartland.

If you’re craving fall travel destinations that feels like diving headfirst into a fairy tale, Bavaria’s fall colors and legendary castles are pure magic. Picture this: You’re wandering through forests ablaze with pumpkin-orange hues and the towering silhouettes of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles pop into view. That’s the kind of fall foliage travel that’ll make you want to pinch yourself on our Germany, Switzerland & Italy tour.

Now, about Oktoberfest. Sure, the festival itself is a bucket list event, but don’t sweat it if you’re not snagging a ticket. Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant heart, practically hums with Oktoberfest vibes all September long. Pull up a bench at a bustling local beer garden, order a frothy stein, and dig into pretzels the size of your head alongside cheerful locals who’ve perfected the art of a lively celebration. Between hearty Bavarian dishes, crisp autumn breezes, and streets alive with music and laughter, you get all the festive feels without the crush of crowds.