The Best Places to Travel in Autumn 2023: Experience Fall Foliage, Stunning Views & Cooler Temperatures

PUBLISHED August 4th, 2023 06:00 am | UPDATED October 20th, 2023 11:11 am

We all know that the smartest travellers are the ones that plan ahead. If you’re already thinking about autumn travel plans, you’ve come to the right place. Take in the beauty of fall, the cooler temperatures or the satisfying crunch of stepping onto dry leaves in what we reckon are the best fall travel destinations.

Wyoming, USA

To experience autumn’s colourful spectrum, there is no place better to visit than the western region of Wyoming in the United States. From mustard yellows to dark burnt umbers, the foliage here is a natural beauty not to be missed between the months of September to November. If you’re lucky, you might also see slight snowfall in certain locations within the state. Put the Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park on your itinerary for majestic views of geysers, hot springs, mountains, and wildlife. Sightseeing tours and outdoor activities aside, experience the state’s true beauty through scenic drives on the byways and highways showcasing the rugged mountains and rolling plains.

For those traveling with furry companions, there are several pet friendly weekly hotels in the region that can serve as the perfect home base. They not only offer convenience but also ensure that every member of your family, including pets, gets to experience Wyoming’s awe-inspiring charm.

Kyoto, Japan

A favourite amongst Singaporeans, Kyoto has made into every traveller’s bucket list in the recent years. Missed the cherry blossoms in spring? Here’s your chance to delight in Kyoto’s stunning autumnal foliage during the months of October to December. If you’re looking to avoid crowds, the first two weeks of October are said to be Japan’s least busy periods of the year, with tourist volume only picking up in the second half of the month. Must visits include the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, which overlooks Higashiyama, the Eikando Zenrinji Temple known for its beautiful spread of maple trees, and Kyoto Botanical Gardens. Load up on the season’s lip-smacking bites like chestnuts, persimmons, and sweet potatoes.

Bavaria, Germany

Best known for Oktoberfest, Bavaria has charmed many with its picturesque countryside landscapes. Head down between the months of September and October for cooler temperatures so you can wander without dealing with the heat and sweat. With the Bavarian Alps in the backdrop, look forward to forests, vineyards, lakes and mountain trails. Of course, Bavaria’s most famous festival is an easy way to experience Bavarian culture, food, and beer, as well as the traditional local markets, pumpkin patches and wine festivals happening during that period. Add Tegernsee to your list of places to visit for Alpine hiking trails, as well as Germany’s 19th-century castle, Neuschwanstein, a source of inspiration for Disney animations.

Patagonia, Chile

Disconnect from the world and enjoy South America’s natural beauty in Patagonia, Chile. The vast and rugged region is known for its stunning landscapes that enters its spring to early summer in the months of September to November. The weather is mild and cool, and the region is alive with colourful wildflowers complementing the icy mountains and turquoise lakes. The centrepiece of Patagonia is the Torres del Paine National Park. Another hot favourite is the Los Glaciares National Park, on the Argentine side of Patagonia, with various hiking routes and the breath-taking Perito Moreno Glacier. Areas like Golfo Nuevo sees a wave of whales and orcas for watching during this season.

Alberta, Canada

In Alberta, Canada autumn springs about a transformed landscape giving way to a stunning array of colours as the leaves change. Our go to spots are the iconic turquoise Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, as well as the Icefields Parkway, which makes for the ideal drive connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks while giving you front row seats to glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain ranges. You can also head down to the city of Calgary, which hosts several fall festivals and events, including the Calgary International Film Festival. Explore Alberta’s vibrant craft beer and spirits scene through tours of local breweries and distilleries. 

Switzerland

Contrary to popular belief that Switzerland should be visited in winter, autumn is actually the season to be here. With trees changing throughout the season, the forests, vineyards, and lakesides are a captivating sight to behold. From the Swiss Alps surrounded by golden hued trees, to wine tastings and boat cruises around Lake Geneva – we can almost imagine the views while writing this. For hikers, we recommend the Via Engiadina trail taking you through Silvaplana and St. Moritz while marvelling at the Bernina range. A piece of advice for tourist visiting Switzerland in fall is to pack a jacket or two as temperatures drop after sunset.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Breathing a new air of positivity after the summer monsoons, autumn in Hanoi brings clear skies, and cooler dryer weather. As you take in the capital of Vietnam and various cultural and historic sites, make a pitstop at Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist temples. Sitting adjacent to West Lake, it provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The famous Hoan Kiem Lake is also a favourite among locals during this time as you can spot fall foliage as well as embark on picnics and leisurely walks around the lake. If you make it in time for the Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu), you’ll see the city adorned with colourful lanterns as well as catch parades and traditional performances.

Top Image: Bavaria, Germany