The European fall season is a vivid display of yellows, browns, and oranges marking the conclusion of relentless summer heat. A casual conversation with the local populace will reveal that autumn is actually the best time to tour the Schengen region. As summer crowds return home to prepare for the winter ahead, flight and accommodation tariffs plummet drastically. So, why not take this opportunity to design a budget-friendly trip into Europe’s Schengen region, and get a first-hand feel of the local culture, which is otherwise hidden by vacationers during the other months?
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a melting point of traditional and modern cultures. Summertime visitors are receding rapidly, and you can explore the town at will, without having to worry about queues or crowds at tourist attractions. Must see spots are the Torvehallerne Market – a market for seasonal farm produce; Nyhavn – a 17th century waterfront; and Tivoli Gardens – a theme park which metamorphosizes during fall for Halloween celebrations.
The best time to visit Copenhagen is September when the weather is just perfect at 15OC. October and November are significantly cooler with temperatures between 5 and 9 Centigrade.
While in Denmark, also include other parts of the country into your list, notably the Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse, Thy National Park, Frederiksborg Castle, Skjoldungernes National Park, and Legoland for a wholesome trip.
Munich, Germany
An autumn vacation in Europe is incomplete without Munich. Ideally, start at Bavaria and then diverge to other places of interest. Munich by itself is famous for its medieval architecture, the glockenspiel, and Oktoberfest, which is a celebration of traditional Bavarian culture.
Munich weather is unpredictable, varying sharply from one day to the next! But weather experts advise
travelers to expect average fall-time temperatures between 8 and 19 Centigrade.
While in Germany, make sure to include other locations that capture the majestic splendor of autumn. Of note are Moselle Valley and Lake Constance, famous for their wine festivals and local apple and pumpkin delicacies. Also treat yourself to the sensational blend of deep green conifers and the fiery gold of seasonal trees with a visit to Black Forest and the Jasmund National Park.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam offers an eclectic mix of mid-century traditions, modernity, and nightlife culture, clearly visible in its architecture, nature trails, and cuisine. The city is best known for its canals and townhouses where the tradition of lighting candles in windows is still followed. You’ll also be privy to a string of dance events that happen for several weeks at a stretch. Foodies will love sinking their teeth into local apple pies and sip piping hot Chocomel. Amsterdam is where the adventure is, so be well prepared to roll in the fun times!
Autumn in Amsterdam starts off on a mild note with September temperatures hovering around 19OC and then dropping to 10Centigrade by November.
While in Netherlands, plan your flight itinerary such that you cover off-track spots as well, such as the Dutch moorlands, Kroller-Muller Museum, Hoge Veluwe National Park, and Kasteel de Haar.
Florence, Italy
Florence’s sensually captivating Renaissance spirit is visible in its history, art, and cuisine, which can be
experienced most beautifully during autumn. Against this autumnal tapestry, you’ll enjoy exploring its medieval churches and art museums. Also set time aside for the local vineyard to observe the rituals of grape harvesting and wine making first-hand and sample them as well! Other spots to visit in Florence include the Piazzale Michelangelo; Giardino Bardini and Boboli Garden; and the Ponte Vecchio bridge across the river Arno.
Autumn in Florence promises beautiful temperatures of 27 Centigrade in September dropping down gradually to a maximum of 15 Centigrade by November end.
While in Italy, consider visiting other areas of interest to experience untampered autumn hues. Simply hop into specially organized day tours to the 14th century cathedral Duomo di Orvieto in Umbria; Basilica di San Vitale in Bologna; and Lakes Como, Garda, and Iseo to soak up the spirit of autumn.
French Riviera, France
The French coastline is a must-visit during autumn as the air embraces the soft tones of rippling water and whispering red and gold leaves lining the Riviera. Autumn is also when luxurious and exclusive French wines are born. So, vineyards are the place to be when visiting France during fall. The Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival and the vineyards of Bordeaux are popular choices for exploring the art of wine-making and related activities.
Fall weather in France is mild, starting at 21 Centigrade in September and cooling down to 17 Centigrade by November end.
While in France, expand your travels to include more countryside visits to Pyrenees-Atlantiques and Toulouse to truly experience the magic of autumn. Parisian fall is visible mostly in parks and gardens but is incomparable nonetheless.
Lugano, Switzerland
Being a small town, Lugano is the best place to be during fall season, as every street and street corner is awash in rich gold and bronze as sunshine filters through the trees. Autumn is particularly famous for the annual food festival during which seasonal ingredients are brought together to create mouthwatering delicacies such as risotto, minestrone, mortadella, and gnocchi amongst others.
The autumnal dip in Swiss temperatures happens much later compared to other Schengen countries. So, expect September to be warm, cooling off only in October with 17 Centigrade and getting colder in November with 12 Centigrade.
While in Switzerland, you can explore other places to stay which will enhance your fall experiences. From boat rides in Lucerne, Interlaken, and Montreux’s Lake Geneva, witnessing the beauty of autumnal foliage in the Swiss Alps from Zermott, and enjoying horseback rides in Gstaad amidst beautiful landscapes, Switzerland has so much to offer!
With such a wide array of autumnal experiences waiting for you, grab this opportunity today and enjoy the bright fall colors before winter’s whiteness takes over. Travel alone, with your partner, or family. All you need is a Flight Itinerary, Hotel Confirmation, Travel Insurance, and Travel Medical Insurance to create the vacation you will remember for life!