As the summer months come to an end, many of us are left wondering where we can escape the cold and gloom. While some may think that autumn is a bleak time of year, there’s plenty to be excited about – from comfortable temperatures to vibrant cultural festivals.
If you’re looking for a warm-weather getaway in November, consider alternative destinations to Europe. But if you do want to explore Europe during the autumn season, here are some top recommendations:
Munich, Germany
Munich is a great destination for those who want to experience the magic of autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 32°F to 46°F (0°C – 8°C), you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the city’s famous parks and gardens.
- Must-see attractions:
- English Garden: One of Munich’s most popular green spaces, featuring several lakes, gardens, and walking paths.
- Oktoberfest Museum: Learn about the history and traditions behind this world-famous beer festival.
- Nymphenburg Palace: A stunning baroque palace with beautiful gardens and a lake.
Temperature: min 32°F / max 46°F (0°C – 8°C)
Cost: $428 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Budapest, Hungary
Known as the “Paris of the East,” Budapest is a beautiful city that’s perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 36°F to 50°F (2°C – 10°C), you can explore the city’s thermal baths, historic landmarks, and picturesque streets.
- Must-see attractions:
- Széchenyi Thermal Bath: One of Budapest’s most famous thermal baths, known for its stunning architecture and natural hot springs.
- Buda Castle: A medieval fortress that now serves as the seat of Hungary’s parliament.
- St. Stephen’s Basilica: A beautiful church with a striking dome and great views of the city.
Temperature: min 36°F / max 50°F (2°C – 10°C)
Cost: $232 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Paris, France
No need to say more about Paris – it’s a beautiful city that’s perfect in any season. Autumn is especially lovely, with comfortable temperatures ranging from 43°F to 55°F (6°C – 13°C) and fewer tourists than during the summer months.
- Must-see attractions:
- The Eiffel Tower: The iconic symbol of Paris, offering breathtaking views of the city.
- The Louvre Museum: One of the world’s most famous museums, housing an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
- Montmartre: A charming neighborhood with narrow streets, historic buildings, and stunning views.
Temperature: min 43°F / max 55°F (6°C – 13°C)
Cost: $491 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Sofia, Bulgaria
A vibrant and lively city, Sofia is a great destination for culture lovers. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 36°F to 64°F (2°C – 18°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, thermal baths, and bustling markets.
- Must-see attractions:
- Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: A stunning Orthodox cathedral with beautiful architecture and stunning views.
- National Museum of History: A museum showcasing Bulgaria’s rich history and culture.
- Ivan Vazov Theatre: A historic theatre hosting various performances and events.
Temperature: min 36°F / max 64°F (2°C – 18°C)
Cost: $251 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Glasgow, Scotland
While many tourists prefer Edinburgh, Glasgow is a great alternative that’s worth visiting. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 41°F to 50°F (5°C – 10°C), you can explore the city’s parks, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum: A stunning museum featuring an impressive collection of art and artifacts.
- Glasgow Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral with stunning architecture and great views of the city.
- Royal Botanic Garden: A beautiful garden featuring various plant species and a stunning glasshouse.
Temperature: min 41°F / max 50°F (5°C – 10°C)
Cost: $420 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Lisbon, Portugal
A convenient destination in any season, Lisbon is a great choice for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 48°F to 64°F (9°C – 18°C), you can explore the city’s historic neighborhoods, castles, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Jerónimos Monastery: A stunning monastery with beautiful architecture and great views of the Tagus River.
- Belem Tower: A medieval fortress with stunning architecture and great views of the river.
- Tram 28: A historic tram that takes you through various neighborhoods, offering great views of the city.
Temperature: min 48°F / max 64°F (9°C – 18°C)
Cost: $344 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
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Salzburg, Austria
A charming city in the Austrian Alps, Salzburg is a great destination for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 32°F to 46°F (0°C – 8°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, castles, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: A medieval fortress with stunning architecture and great views of the city.
- Mirabell Palace and Gardens: A beautiful palace with stunning gardens and a lake.
- Getreidegasse: A charming street lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
Temperature: min 32°F / max 46°F (0°C – 8°C)
Cost: $496 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Marseille, France
A romantic city with a rich history, Marseille is perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 45°F to 59°F (7°C – 15°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, beaches, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- The Old Port: A charming harbor area with narrow streets, cafes, and shops.
- Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: A stunning church with beautiful architecture and great views of the city.
- Château d’If: A medieval fortress with stunning architecture and great views of the sea.
Temperature: min 45°F / max 59°F (7°C – 15°C)
Cost: $395 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Dubrovnik, Croatia
A beautiful walled city with a rich history, Dubrovnik is perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, beaches, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Old City Walls: A medieval fortress with stunning architecture and great views of the sea.
- Stradun: A charming street lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
- Rector’s Palace: A beautiful palace with stunning architecture and great views of the city.
Temperature: min 50°F / max 64°F (10°C – 18°C)
Cost: $390 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Valencia, Spain
A beautiful city with a rich history and culture, Valencia is perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 49°F to 63°F (9°C – 17°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, beaches, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- City of Arts and Sciences: A stunning complex featuring various art installations and scientific exhibits.
- Central Market: A bustling market with fresh produce, local specialties, and souvenirs.
- Silk Exchange: A historic building turned museum, showcasing Valencia’s textile history.
Temperature: min 49°F / max 63°F (9°C – 17°C)
Cost: $446 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Vienna, Austria
A city with a rich cultural heritage, Vienna is perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 32°F to 50°F (0°C – 10°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Schönbrunn Palace: A stunning baroque palace with beautiful gardens and a lake.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: A beautiful church with stunning architecture and great views of the city.
- Hofburg Palace: A historic palace with stunning architecture and great views of the city.
Temperature: min 32°F / max 50°F (0°C – 10°C)
Cost: $496 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
Berlin, Germany
A vibrant and cultural city, Berlin is perfect for autumn. With comfortable temperatures ranging from 32°F to 50°F (0°C – 10°C), you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, museums, and cultural attractions.
- Must-see attractions:
- Brandenburg Gate: The iconic symbol of Berlin, offering breathtaking views of the city.
- Museum Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five world-class museums.
- Checkpoint Charlie: A historic border crossing turned museum, showcasing Berlin’s turbulent history.
Temperature: min 32°F / max 50°F (0°C – 10°C)
Cost: $408 per person for flights + hotel + 1 week
When planning your trip, consider the following tips:
- Book your accommodations well in advance to ensure availability and the best rates.
- Research local festivals and events, which can be a great way to experience the local culture.
- Pack layers for cooler weather, as well as comfortable shoes for walking.
- Don’t forget to try some of the local cuisine, which often features seasonal ingredients and traditional dishes.
By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories in one of Europe’s many autumn destinations.