These are the best travel destinations for autumn
Already dreaming of an autumn or winter trip? Now’s the time to start planning. Flight tickets to popular destinations tend to get pricier as summer approaches, especially for trips between October and March. Book early and you’ll get more options for routes and accommodation, plus you can save a fair bit. From vibrant autumn landscapes in Asia to safaris during the dry season in Africa, these are our favourite destinations for autumn.
China - a mix of autumn colours, culture & street food
Autumn might just be the best time to visit China. Temperatures are much more comfortable than the humid summer months, and many regions turn red, yellow and orange. Picture temples surrounded by autumn leaves, hikes along the Great Wall without the extreme heat, and lively food markets in cities like Chengdu and Xi’an.
Another bonus: the peak season for domestic tourism winds down after early October, so popular spots are a bit quieter.
Why China is ideal in autumn:
- Comfortable temperatures in many regions
- Stunning autumn colours in national parks
- Great season for city trips and nature
- Amazing street food without summer heat
Walk the Great Wall of China surrounded by autumn colours
Japan - autumn in Japan is next level
Everyone knows about cherry blossom in spring, but Japanese autumn is just as impressive. From late October to early December, temple gardens, mountains and parks turn bright red and gold. Kyoto, Tokyo and the Japanese Alps are especially popular at this time.
The weather is perfect for travelling around: not too hot, not too cold, and often clear blue skies. Ideal if you want to see a lot without getting wiped out by the climate.
Why Japan is a top pick:
- Incredibly beautiful autumn colours
- Perfect weather for travelling around
- Loads of festivals and seasonal food
- Great time for hikes and city trips
Japanese temples surrounded by golden autumn leaves
Morocco - no more extreme heat, all the atmosphere
Morocco can get pretty hot in summer, so autumn is actually much nicer. You can comfortably wander the medinas of Marrakech, head into the Sahara without melting, and hike in the Atlas Mountains.
Surf spots like Taghazout also have great conditions in autumn. Whether you’re after culture, nature or beach time, Morocco is surprisingly good between October and December.
Why Morocco is perfect after summer:
- Pleasant temperatures
- Ideal for desert trips and hikes
- Great surf season
- Short travel time from Europe
Surf the Moroccan coast in autumn
Tanzania - combine safaris and tropical islands
Tanzania is one of those places where you can easily combine several trips in one. Autumn marks the start of an amazing safari season, as animals gather more often around waterholes, making wildlife spotting much easier.
And afterwards? Head to Zanzibar for white beaches, diving and relaxed coastal towns.
Why Tanzania is top between October and March:
- Great safari conditions
- Warm, sunny climate
- Adventure and beach combined
- Chance to spot the Big Five
Heads up: Tanzania fills up fast, so make sure you book early!
Spot wildlife on safari in Tanzania
Australia - summer vibes while Europe gets cold
While Europe gets darker and colder, summer kicks off in Australia. That makes autumn and winter here perfect for a longer backpacking trip, working holiday or road trip along the coast.
From surfing on the east coast to camper routes between national parks and cities like Sydney and Melbourne, Australia is made for adventurous travellers who want freedom. And since many people leave between November and February, booking early is extra smart if you want affordable flight tickets.
Why Australia is perfect between October and March:
- Summer on the other side of the world
- Ideal season for road trips and backpacking
- Beautiful beaches, nature and wildlife
- Popular time for working holidays
- Loads of festivals and outdoor activities
Road trip along the Australian coast
South Korea - underrated autumn destination
South Korea is still one of the most underrated destinations in Asia. And in autumn, you’ll see why people become total fans. Seoul gets a cosy vibe with autumn colours in the parks, while national parks like Seoraksan are perfect for hiking.
Korea is also ideal if you love good food, cafés, nature and a bit of adventure without the crowds.
Why South Korea works so well in autumn:
- Fresh temperatures without winter chill
- Amazing autumn landscapes
- More affordable than Japan
- Great mix of nature and cities
Perfect weather for a city trip in South Korea
Mexico - sunshine, nature and great food from November
From November, one of the best times to visit Mexico begins. The rainy season is mostly over, temperatures are comfortable and you can explore much of the country without the extreme heat of summer.
Mexico really has everything for a varied adventure: colourful cities, Maya ruins, jungle, surf spots, cenotes and fantastic food. Whether you're backpacking through Yucatán, trying street food in Mexico City or heading to Oaxaca with a group, autumn and winter are perfect for seeing a lot.
Why Mexico is ideal from November:
- Drier and sunnier weather
- Perfect for backpacking routes and round trips
- Culture, nature and beaches all in one
- Amazing street food and local markets
- Great time for surfing, diving and outdoor activities
Sunshine, colourful streets and street food in Mexico
Uganda - adventure off the beaten track
Uganda still feels like a destination that isn’t overrun by tourism. That’s exactly what makes it so special. In autumn, you get relatively dry conditions for activities like gorilla trekking, safaris and hiking.
The mix of jungle, lakes, mountains and wildlife makes Uganda perfect if you’re after a trip that feels just a bit more adventurous.
Why Uganda is a great choice:
- Gorilla trekking
- Less mass tourism
- Loads of nature and adventure
- Good season for outdoor activities
Searching for gorillas in Uganda’s jungle
Book smart, travel later
If you’re planning to travel between October and March, booking early is just smart. The sooner you book, the more options you have and the better your chances of scoring a good ticket price. So: where do you see yourself this autumn? Among the autumn colours in Japan, on safari in Tanzania or with a bowl of noodles in Seoul?
Feeling inspired and ready to travel?
Our travel experts can help you refine your ideas, pick the right destinations and plan your trip from start to finish.
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