The most underrated Autumn destinations in Europe

Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, August 11th 2025 at 13:19 GMT by HELLO! Magazine
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From sprawling coastlines to magical city breaks

Discover Europe's Most Underrated Autumn Destinations: Insights from Travel Experts

As the summer crowds dissipate and the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of gold, red, and orange, autumn emerges as an ideal time to explore Europe. The continent's underrated destinations come alive with crisp air, harvest festivals, and a serene ambiance that contrasts sharply with the bustling peak season. Travel experts highlight these hidden gems for their affordability, fewer tourists, and unique seasonal charms, from misty forests and historic villages to coastal retreats. Drawing from recommendations by seasoned wanderers, this guide uncovers some of Europe's best-kept autumn secrets, perfect for those seeking authentic experiences without the hype.

One standout recommendation is Slovenia's Lake Bled, often overshadowed by more famous Alpine spots like Switzerland's lakes. In autumn, the area's emerald waters reflect a tapestry of colorful foliage, creating a fairy-tale setting. Experts note that the cooler temperatures make it ideal for hiking around the lake or up to Bled Castle, where panoramic views of the Julian Alps are unobstructed by summer haze. Local vineyards burst with activity during the grape harvest, offering wine tastings and farm-to-table meals featuring seasonal produce like chestnuts and pumpkins. With fewer visitors, accommodations are more affordable, and the nearby Triglav National Park provides trails lined with turning leaves, evoking a sense of peaceful isolation.

Venturing eastward, Romania's Transylvania region is praised for its gothic allure and underrated fall beauty. Far from the Dracula stereotypes, places like Brasov and Sibiu transform into autumn wonderlands. The Carpathian Mountains are ablaze with fiery hues, and hiking paths lead to medieval fortresses and fortified churches. Travel specialists emphasize the harvest festivals in villages, where locals share homemade palinka (fruit brandy) and hearty stews. The region's affordability shines in autumn, with budget-friendly stays in charming guesthouses. Experts recommend visiting Bran Castle not just for its lore but for the surrounding forests, which offer scenic drives and wildlife spotting, including deer amid the falling leaves. The mild weather—neither too hot nor freezing—allows for comfortable exploration of Sighisoara's citadel, a UNESCO site with cobbled streets that feel even more enchanting under a canopy of autumn colors.

In Italy, while Rome and Venice draw eternal crowds, the underrated region of Umbria beckons with its rolling hills and medieval hilltop towns. Autumn here means truffle hunting in the forests around Norcia and olive harvests that invite participation in local presses. Travel experts rave about Perugia's chocolate festival in October, where the air is scented with cocoa and spices, blending seamlessly with the earthy tones of the landscape. The area's vineyards produce robust Sagrantino wines, best sampled during harvest tours. With temperatures in the comfortable 15-20°C range, cycling through the countryside or wandering Assisi's basilicas feels invigorating. Underrated spots like Spoleto offer dramatic gorges and ancient aqueducts framed by golden vines, providing a quieter alternative to Tuscany's fame.

Heading north, Estonia's capital, Tallinn, is hailed as an autumn underdog in the Baltic region. Its medieval old town, with fairy-tale towers and cobblestone alleys, takes on a mystical quality as fog rolls in from the Gulf of Finland. Experts point to the colorful markets selling foraged mushrooms, berries, and handmade woolens, perfect for the cooler days. Autumn foliage in Kadriorg Park rivals that of more famous Scandinavian spots, and the lower tourist numbers mean intimate experiences at saunas or craft beer tastings. Nearby Lahemaa National Park explodes with russet tones, offering bog walks and coastal hikes where seals can be spotted. The season's affordability extends to ferries to Helsinki, making it a gateway for multi-country trips.

Portugal's Douro Valley, often eclipsed by Porto or Lisbon, shines in autumn as the grape harvest peaks. Terraced vineyards along the river turn shades of amber and crimson, and experts recommend river cruises or train rides for immersive views. Wine estates host tastings of port and table wines, paired with regional almonds and cheeses. The milder weather encourages hikes to viewpoints like Miradouro de Casal de Loivos, where the valley's beauty unfolds without summer's heat. Lesser-known towns like Pinhão offer authentic stays in quintas (estates), emphasizing sustainable tourism.

Further afield, the Czech Republic's South Moravia region is a wine lover's autumn paradise, underrated compared to Prague's buzz. Vineyards around Mikulov and Valtice produce crisp whites and reds, with harvest festivals featuring folk music and grape-stomping. The area's chateaus, like Lednice, are surrounded by parks with turning leaves, ideal for cycling tours. Experts note the blend of Austrian and Czech influences in the cuisine, from duck roasts to sweet pastries, all enhanced by the season's bounty.

In Greece, while islands like Santorini dominate summer itineraries, the Peloponnese peninsula offers an underrated autumn escape. Olive groves and ancient sites like Olympia are less crowded, with mild weather perfect for exploring ruins amid wildflowers and falling acorns. Coastal towns like Nafplio provide seaside walks with views of turning hillsides, and local tavernas serve fresh seafood and harvest vegetables. Travel pros highlight the region's hiking trails in the Taygetos Mountains, where autumn colors contrast with the blue sea.

Scotland's Isle of Skye, though gaining popularity, remains underrated for autumn visits due to its dramatic landscapes. Misty moors and rugged cliffs are accented by heather turning purple and gold, with fewer midges than summer. Experts suggest drives along the Trotternish Ridge for fairy pools and castle ruins, complemented by whisky tastings in cozy pubs.

Finally, Poland's Bieszczady Mountains offer a wild, underrated retreat. Dense forests erupt in autumnal splendor, with trails leading to remote villages and wildlife havens. Bear and wolf sightings are possible, and the solitude appeals to nature enthusiasts. Local huts serve pierogi and mushroom dishes, encapsulating the season's essence.

These destinations, as endorsed by travel experts, prove that autumn in Europe is about rediscovering the continent's quieter corners. With benefits like lower costs, vibrant scenery, and cultural immersion, they invite travelers to step off the beaten path and embrace the magic of fall. Whether chasing foliage, savoring harvests, or wandering historic paths, these spots promise unforgettable journeys. (Word count: 928)

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[ https://www.hellomagazine.com/travel/849511/most-underrated-autumn-destinations-in-europe-travel-experts/ ]

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The most underrated Autumn destinations in Europe - according to travel experts

Discover Europe's Most Underrated Autumn Destinations: Insights from Travel Experts