Best Autumn Holiday Travel Destinations in Europe

The best places to visit in September, October, and November often sit just across the Channel, and the Opal Coast is a clear choice. A quick crossing on the Dover to Calais ferry gets you straight to the coast and into holiday mode. Spend your days enjoying breezy beach walks, seaside snacks, and slow strolls through spots like Le Touquet and Wimereux. The weather stays warm, perfect for laid-back lunches and dinners, and smooth drives along the shore.

One of the best places to visit in Europe in autumn is Zeeland. The city is all about sunny shores, fresh air, and feel-good adventures. Hop aboard the Hull-to-Rotterdam route and spend your days cycling along scenic paths and tucking into fresh local flavours. With plenty of space to roam and recharge, it's the perfect family escape before the school routine rolls back in.

Among the best places to visit in Europe in September, Normandy and the Loire Valley are perfect for castle hopping and countryside cruising. Warm days and cooler evenings make it easy to explore grand châteaux, wind your way along charming cider routes, and wander through local markets packed with freshly picked produce. Fill your car boot with apples, artisan cheeses, and autumn favourites before hitting the road again.

The Dutch coast is at its best in September, with sunny days and plenty of room to roam. Stroll along the shores of Scheveningen, wander through the whimsical Keukenhof Castle Estate, and soak up the slower pace after the summer rush.

The region is among the best holiday destinations for autumn sun, with plenty of opportunities to explore charming seaside towns, visit the historic pier at Scheveningen, and discover the gardens and woodland paths surrounding Keukenhof Castle Estate. A coastal drive through nearby villages adds another relaxing way to experience the Netherlands at this time of year.

1. Paris: Paris takes on a different charm in October. Picture yourself wandering along the Seine, popping into the Louvre for a bit of art, or simply unwinding in the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens. The quieter season offers a more relaxed way to experience the city's famous landmarks.
2. Bordeaux: Bordeaux is a city that charms with its elegant architecture and riverside views. Autumn is perfect to take a stroll through Place de la Bourse, get lost in the historic centre, and don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby vineyards that make this region so famous.
3. Lille: Lille is full of character, with its cobbled old streets, quirky independent shops, and a food scene that’s hard to resist. Don’t miss the impressive Palais des Beaux-Arts or the lively Grand Place; they’re perfect spots to soak up the city’s atmosphere while enjoying the mild autumn weather.
4. Strasbourg: Strasbourg is where French and German cultures blend together, especially in the charming historic centre. Take time to admire the stunning Cathedral, wander through the storybook streets of Petite France, and enjoy a stroll along the canals edged with autumn colors for some of the best October views in town.

1. Bruges: Bruges feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with its medieval buildings, winding canals, and lively squares. Hop on a boat for a trip along the waterways, and climb the Belfry for some amazing views over the city.
2. Ghent: Ghent is packed with impressive sights and a buzzing cultural scene. Explore the mighty Gravensteen Castle, step inside the beautiful St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and wander the colourful streets around Graslei and Korenlei for a real taste of the city’s energy.
3. Brussels: Brussels is a great city to visit year-round, but autumn gives it a little extra magic. Imagine wandering through the Sonian Forest on a guided hike, with colourful leaves crunching underfoot and plenty of chances to spot local wildlife. If you need to escape the rain, the Magritte Museum is the perfect spot for a dose of surreal art. October is especially lively, with the city buzzing during the Brussels Beer Weekend.
4. Dinant: Dinant is at its most beautiful in autumn. Between September and November, the hills and forests along the Meuse River turn brilliant shades of red and gold. A river cruise is a relaxed way to take in the scenery, or you can hop on the cable car up to the Citadel for amazing views over the town and the valley, all dressed up in autumn colours.

1. Amsterdam: Amsterdam is all about soaking up the autumn atmosphere, cruising along its famous canals lined with golden trees. When it starts getting chilly in October, you can pop into world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, or just unwind at a cosy café by the water in the Jordaan district.
2. Rotterdam: Rotterdam stands out with its bold, modern architecture. Check out the quirky Cube Houses and the striking Erasmus Bridge. Grab a bite at the Markthal’s international food stalls, then take a stroll along the waterfront for great city views.

1. Cologne: Cologne is a city that’s easy to fall in love with. Marvel at the towering Cologne Cathedral, wander along the Rhine for lovely riverside views, and get lost in the Old Town’s maze of shops, restaurants, and cultural spots.
2. Düsseldorf: Düsseldorf has plenty to offer, from the lively Altstadt to the stylish shops along Königsallee. The Rheinufer promenade is perfect for an autumn walk in October, with leaves turning along the riverbanks and some of the best views of the River Rhine.