Best Weekend Escape Destinations For Fall

Fall is a lovely time to explore Europe, when the biggest tourist crowds have disappeared and you can wander the cities freely, stopping for a long lunch or finding a cosy café to escape the rain. If you're in the mood for a change of scenery, these are the destinations I'd put on my list for a fall weekend away.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of those cities that feels like it was made for fall, with that relaxed Scandinavian atmosphere that makes you want to slow down a little. I'd spend my days walking around the city, strolling through the boutiques and stopping for coffee whenever something catches my eye. If you have a little extra time, I'd also recommend heading to North Zealand, often called the Danish Riviera, where you can visit beautiful castles (and take some really cool pics), explore the coastline and check out the Museum of Modern Art.

San Sebastián, Spain

If you want a weekend full of good food, then San Sebastián would be the first place on my list. The coastal city in the Basque is famous for its pintxos bars, where you can spend an entire evening moving from one place to another and trying out the best food ever. You will never feel bored there, and even if you do, there is the possibility of a day trip to the nearby wine region of Rioja, where you can go for a wine tasting or two. Fall is also a lovely time to explore the place on foot, without the unbearable summer heat.

The Dolomites, Italy

If you'd rather trade city streets for mountain views, the Dolomites are worth considering for an autumn escape. The landscape gets the beautiful golden tones as the season progresses, and the cooler temperatures make it a lovely time for hiking and spending time outdoors. You can plan your days around scenic trails, lakes and small mountain villages, so it is perfect for hikers and those who just enjoy nature in general. I'd aim for mid-to-late October if autumn vibes is what you're after, although conditions vary with the weather and altitude.

Umbria, Italy

Tuscany tends to get most of the attention, but Umbria is a great alternative if you're looking for a slower, less predictable Italian getaway. Known for its green landscapes, medieval towns and excellent local food, this region is especially appealing in fall, when truffles, wine and the olive harvest become the main part of the experience. You could spend a morning exploring Assisi, wander through the historic streets of Perugia or simply settle into a small trattoria for a long lunch. I'd also consider staying in a countryside hotel or restored estate, where the whole point is to take things slowly and to explore everything they do and produce.

The Irish Countryside

If you're craving fresh air, long walks and a nature that looks like it's hours far away from the city, then the Irish countryside might be exactly what you need. Historic country houses, scenic coastlines and the kind of weather that makes coming back to a cosy hotel feel even better. You could explore County Meath and its ancient sites, or head west towards Connemara for glacial lakes and striking natural scenery. I'd pair the days outdoors with slow dinners by a fireplace, and with a cozy hotel or house where you can enjoy your time while it rains.