12 Places to Visit in Fall

The season of fall is the season for all. It is the perfect temperature, ambient and kind, and married to the colors of vivid childhood dreams and memories. Some of my favorite fall memories involve piling into the car and driving to this little town in near my home to pick apples, eat apple pie and see the leaves. Delicious thoughts remain.

There’s something magic about fall travel. Whether you’re savoring fall flavors at a farmer’s market or enjoying a scenic hike, autumn is the perfect time to scheme a getaway.

Below, I break down 12 of the best places to visit this fall. These destinations are perfect for long weekend visits, though I wouldn’t judge you for staying longer. I’ve also rounded up a few choices for bucket-list adventures in the fall.

Big Sur, California

Few, if any, places along Pacific Coast Highway are as enchanting as Big Sur. Nearly 100 miles of misty, rugged cliffs dotted with towering pine forests, seal beaches and the occasional humpback whale sighting make Big Sur one of the United States’ most coveted destinations. And in the fall, the contrast between the verdant mountains and sapphire-blue waves is especially striking.

Where to Stay in Big Sur in the Fall: Alila Ventana Big Sur

Developments of any kind are rare in Big Sur, making the two Michelin-Key resort Alila Ventana Big Sur a special exception. The property offers luxe accommodations with exclusive amenities like outdoor hot tubs and excellent California fusion dining.

Fall brings fewer crowds to the resort, making Alila Ventana a perfect retreat with opportunities for hiking, nature walks and wildlife viewing. (Big Sur is one of the most biodiverse places in the U.S.) Plus, the resort’s wellness offerings, including Japanese-style baths, spa treatments and outdoor yoga, along with farm-to-table dining, enhance the overall experience.

Alila Ventana isn’t the only amazing property in Big Sur. If you need help narrowing down a top pick, I’ll happily provide personalized recommendations. Book with me to receive a $100 resort credit, welcome amenity, room upgrade and extended check-in/out, whenever possible.

Manchester, Vermont

Few places in the United States experience as beautiful of a fall transition as New England does. The region’s forests become a sea of red, orange and yellow with crisp temperatures that are perfect for outdoor adventures.

The cool weather is ideal for activities like hiking, apple picking and exploring historic towns, many of which offer a masterclass in 17th- and 18-th century architecture styles. New England regularly hosts harvest festivals and fairs during the fall, some of which have been celebrated since before the founding of the United States.

It’s worth noting that popular destinations, like Vermont, book up quickly. If you wish to visit in fall, I strongly recommend booking by early summer, if not spring.

Where to Stay in Vermont in the fall: Kimpton Taconic Hotel

The Kimpton Taconic is a small boutique hotel that exemplifies New England charm. Guests enjoy cozy accommodations with a contemporary aesthetic, farm-to-table dining and inviting common spaces amidst the historic Manchester Village. The hotel’s elegantly designed rooms provide a perfect retreat after a day of exploring the local hiking trails and scenic roads. In addition, the warm and inviting atmosphere, along with the hotel’s proximity to quaint shops and cultural attractions, makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing fall getaway.

The hotel also features three standalone cottages near Manchester Village, which make for a more private getaway. Each is notably more spacious than The Taconic’s guest rooms. Book with me to receive a $50 hotel credit, welcome amenity, room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

South Carolina

A fall trip to South Carolina offers balmy temperatures (as compared to the heat of summer). One of my favorite destinations is Bluffton, a quiet and scenic region that’s perfect for exploring the wildlife-abundant May River, where you can embark on personalized boat tours or kayaking adventures. Bluffton’s historic Old Town district offers a unique blend of Southern Hospitality and artisanal shops, while the city’s many fall festivals celebrate local culture and cuisine, allowing visitors to savor fresh seafood and regional specialties in a vibrant atmosphere.

Where to Stay in South Carolina in the Fall: Montage Palmetto Bluff

The Montage Palmetto Bluff is an upscale resort offering a grandiose blend of classic Southern sophistication and modern amenities. Along with well-appointed rooms, guests can enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, golfing and exploring nature trails, all set on the resort’s expansive and private 20,000 acres. Book with me to receive a $100 resort credit, breakfast daily, a room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Hamptons, New York

The Hamptons are a great place to visit in fall if you’re looking for a taste of the finer things. While the beaches are generally too cold for swimming by fall, they’re still gorgeous. And the small towns offer a mix of luxurious dining and high-end shopping in a laid-back setting. (Channel your inner Barefoot Contessa here in the Hamptons!)

Where to Stay in the Hamptons in the fall: The Roundtree Amagansett

The Roundtree, Amagansett is one of the Hamptons’ best places to stay in fall. What looks like a modest cottage from the street reveals itself a spacious boutique hotel with a delightfully contemporary look and feel.

Remodeled in 2020, the hotel features 14 rooms in classic cedar shingle buildings, including a main house, bar and multiple cottages. Book with me to receive a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Park City, Utah

Park City‘s ski season usually begins by Thanksgiving, but it’s worth visiting at any season, as well. The city constantly hosts fall festivals and events, and the surrounding mountains and pine forests offer a tranquil backdrop for hiking, horseback riding and other outdoor activities.

Where to Stay in Park City in the fall: The Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Resorts Collection

The Goldener Hirsch, a world-class Auberge Resorts Collection property, sets the gold standard for mountain resorts in Utah. The property blends an upscale rustic design with European ski lodge motifs. Depending upon when you visit in fall, you can enjoy premier access to Park City’s ski slopes or a variety of outdoor excitement, ranging from river rafting to fly fishing and more. Book with me to receive a $100 hotel credit, breakfast daily, a room upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Tuscany, Italy

Fall is harvest season in Tuscany, inviting visitors to enjoy wine and olive oil tastings and festivals. Fall in Tuscany also means fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience when exploring charming hilltop towns like San Gimignano and Montepulciano. Plus, the cooler temperatures are ideal for visiting Tuscany’s historical sites, such as Florence’s museums and Siena‘s medieval streets, without the intense heat.

Where to Stay in Tuscany in the Fall: Lupaia

Lupaia is an authentic boutique hotel set in a restored Tuscan farmhouse that provides luxe accommodations with a rustic twist. Guests will enjoy Italy’s unique fall foliage, explore nearby medieval towns and sample delicacies at local harvest festivals. Plus, the on-site restaurant features regional dining, which can’t be missed if this is your first trip to Italy. Book with me to receive a welcome amenity, breakfast daily, and room upgrade whenever possible.

Munich, Germany

Munich tops many lists of Europe’s best places to visit in fall. The city’s gardens and perks offer a scenic autumn ambiance, and its architectural beauty – from the historic Marienplatz to the grand Nymphenburg Palace – is even more striking in the fall. Local markets and cafes offer tasty seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and warm pastries. Of course, a fall trip to Munich is incomplete without taking in its signature event: Oktoberfest.

Where to Stay in Munich in the fall: Mandarin Oriental, Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Munich is a lavish hotel in the heart of the city. The hotel’s luxe rooms and rooftop terrace provide excellent views of the cityscape, while its central location allows easy access to Munich’s cultural attractions and parks. Additionally, the in-house dining options feature seasonal Bavarian cuisine, enhancing the fall experience with authentic, local flavors. Book with me to receive a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily and room upgrade whenever possible.

Patagonia, Chile

September through December is spring in Patagonia (its located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons are opposite). If you’re looking to escape fall’s colder temperatures while exploring one of the most beautiful places on Earth, a trip to Patagonia may be the fix you need. Verdant grasslands and hills are peppered with colorful wildflower blooms, crystal clear lakes and majestic peaks.

Where to Stay in Chilean Patagonia: Explora Torres del Paine Lodge

Located in a remote corner of Torres del Paine National Park, Explora is a lakefront resort capitalizing on the region’s unparalleled beauty. The views are breathtaking, with dramatic mountains and foliage. Guests can enjoy expertly guided hikes and horseback rides, exploring the stunning scenery with fewer tourists and warm, but not blazing, temperatures. Book with me to receive a $100 resort credit, breakfast daily, room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is another one of Europe’s best places to visit in fall for its enchanting blend of historic charm and natural beauty. Crisp, cooler temperatures make it comfortable to explore the cobblestone streets and enjoy outdoor cafes without the summer crowds. Plus, fall brings a variety of cultural events and festivals and seasonal Czech cuisine, like hearty dishes and local beers.

Where to Stay in Prague in the fall: Andaz Prague

The Andaz blends modern luxury with historic European charm and sits in New Town (Nove’ Mesto). The property has an undercurrent of Old World design but feels remarkably fresh. Book with me to receive a $100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Kyoto, Japan

Fall transforms Kyoto‘s many historic temples, tranquil gardens and parks into a tapestry of reds, oranges and yellows. Iconic locations such as Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove are especially stunning this season. Plus, mild temperatures and clear skies ensure comfortable conditions for Kyoto’s historical sites, traditional tea houses and lively streets. (Check out my Insider’s Guide to Japan for more intel on this fabulous city.)

Fall is also the season for cultural festivals, including the Jidai Matsuri and the Kurama Fire Festival, providing a glimpse into Japan’s deep heritage. Additionally, Kyoto’s seasonal cuisine, featuring ingredients like mutsutake mushrooms and chestnuts, enhances the culinary experience.

Where to Stay in Kyoto in fall: Hotel the Mitsui Kyoto, a Luxury Collection Hotel & Spa

Blending world-class hospitality with traditional Japanese lodgings, Hotel The Mitsui offers authenticity and luxe comfort. The hotel is within walking distance of the city’s most impressive sites, like Kyoto Imperial Palace and Nijo Castle, too. Book with me to receive a $100 resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

London, United Kingdom

London radiates style and history while catering to travelers of all types. The leaves start to change color, and the weather is still generally nice enough to stay out until the evening. But if the weather isn’t ideal, not to worry: Explore the city’s numerous covered markets, like Borough Market.

Where to stay in London in the fall: Beaverbrook Town House

Beaverbrook Town House is a fun yet elegant hotel found between the neighborhoods of Chelsea (tony vibes) and Westminister (home to Buckingham Palace, Big Ben and Westminister Abbey). If you’re looking for things to do in London, nearby parks like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens allows one to peep autumn foliage. Beaverbrook’s on-site restaurant features seasonal British cuisine with an elevated spin. Book with me to receive a $100 food/beverage credit, breakfast daily, room upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Set to the Seas

Of course, a cruise can also be a great option for fall travel. In the fall season, river cruises can be a particularly good choice. This fall season, Viking Cruises is Fora‘s number one booked line. Destinations include many of Europe’s coolest cities, such as London, Paris, Vienna, Budapest and Amsterdam.

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