After a hot European summer, an equally appealing season for travel begins. In autumn, popular cities welcome fewer visitors, the weather is ideal for long walks, and lower prices and a calmer mood offer a different perspective on Europe. Condé Nast Traveler has highlighted seven destinations worth considering.

Copenhagen and the Danish Riviera, Denmark. In autumn, the Danish capital is especially pleasant for walks beneath golden leaves, with cosy cafés, bakeries and restaurants adding to the atmosphere. A trip can also include North Zealand, home to Kronborg Castle, forests, a scenic coastline and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.

Vienna, Austria. Autumn is a wonderful time to explore the city’s parks, museums and galleries, enjoy a traditional Viennese schnitzel, or head beyond the city limits to visit vineyards. Vienna combines its grand historic character with an expanding selection of modern restaurants, hotels and cultural spaces.

San Sebastián, Spain. This destination is particularly attractive for food lovers. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants, celebrated pintxos bars and a lively dining culture. Comfortable autumn temperatures make coastal walks especially enjoyable. In October, the city also hosts San Sebastián Gastronomika, a festival marking 50 years of modern Basque cuisine.

Central Ireland. An autumn escape here will appeal to travellers drawn to mystical landscapes and ancient traditions. County Meath features historic sites connected with Celtic heritage, while the Púca Festival takes place from 29 October to 1 November. Visitors can also travel west toward the Connemara coast and the counties of Clare and Mayo.

Paris, France. In autumn, the French capital becomes more relaxed after the busy summer travel period. It is an excellent season for museum visits, walks through leafy parks and discovering new art exhibitions across the city.

The Dolomites, Italy. During autumn, the mountains shift from summer green to rich shades of gold, visitor numbers fall, and the weather often remains suitable for hiking. The Dolomites are particularly striking in mid and late October, when the larch trees turn bright yellow.

Umbria, Italy. Often called Italy’s “green heart,” this region is at its most inviting in autumn. It is the season for truffle and olive harvesting, ripening grapes and atmospheric visits to medieval towns and villages. Travellers can explore Assisi, the museums of Perugia and the region’s natural landscapes.

Autumn is also a great time to plan a September getaway before the cooler weather fully arrives.

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