Autumn in the Northern Hemisphere: best destinations for families

European destinations in autumn

In Europe, historic destinations seem to transform into an old photograph in sepia tones. Edinburgh, Paris, Budapest, and Florence are just some of the many cities that become even more enchanting with leaves gently falling from trees. Walking aimlessly through countless tree-lined avenues, with their facades that seem frozen in time, gains another dimension. But the great charm lies in urban parks, which transform into a spectacle of colors, quite inviting for a picnic or bike ride.

This period is perfect for exploring UK destinations more deeply.

Starting the journey in London, the immense urban park Hyde Park and the more rustic Hampstead Heath, which inspired C.S. Lewis to write The Chronicles of Narnia, are great places for family outings, enjoying autumnal beauty. The British capital also hosts gastronomic and art festivals during this time, such as the Thames Festival and London Restaurant Festival.

The old part of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a medieval treasure that seems even more authentic when its immense castle, cobblestone streets, and narrow alleys are framed by golden leaves, to the sound of bagpipes. The many urban parks that intersect historical attractions also become even more charming in autumn. The season also brings the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, one of the world’s largest arts festivals, with theater, music, and comedy performances, which can be a great experience for older children. From Edinburgh, a route extension or day tour to the Highlands, Scotland’s magnificent highlands, where the classic film “Braveheart” and Disney/Pixar’s animation “Brave” take place, is unmissable.

Beloved Italy also brings many destinations with an even more enchanting appeal for families in autumn. Without summer’s heat and tourist crowds, the highly disputed Rome, Venice, and Florence become more peaceful for walking tours with children. Those who have more time to explore the country can’t miss the interior landscapes of the Tuscany region at this time, which gain postcard nuances, corresponding more to the stereotype one expects to find there.

For nature lovers seeking destinations off the traditional tourist route, the Dolomites, located in the Italian Alps in the country’s north, seem to transform into a fairy tale scenery in autumn. The mountains are brushed with the season’s first snow, while forests gain golden and red tones, creating a visual spectacle. Lakes reflect this color palette in their blue and crystalline waters, becoming perfect places for contemplation and photography. Trails become even more attractive with mild weather, ideal for hikes that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The region’s picturesque villages add special charm with their traditional architecture houses and welcoming hospitality.

For those who would never leave the world’s most visited city out of their itinerary, in Paris, the landscapes of Champ de Mars, Jardin des Tuileries, and Île de la Cité gain a new look with the arrival of dry leaves, making them even more sought-after locations for photo shoots by tourists, who can already show off their elegant cold-weather looks while looking for the best angles to pose with iconic monuments in the background. For those wanting to experience a moment of contact with nature that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the City of Light, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is the place. Families interested in culture also gain new attractions in the season, which brings various seasonal events, such as art exhibitions and theatrical performances.

For those wanting something a bit different but with the same profile, in Hungary, Budapest, considered by many the “Paris of the East,” delivers an enchanting autumn experience when its tree-lined avenues and historic buildings are wrapped in a mantle of golden leaves. The city, divided by the majestic Danube River, provides spectacular views of Buda Castle Hill and the Hungarian Parliament, especially at sunset. During this season, the city’s thermal baths, such as the famous Széchenyi and Gellért, become even more inviting, being a warm and relaxing refuge from the fresh air. Families can explore Margaret Island, a green oasis in the middle of the Danube, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities, or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local cafés and markets, where traditional Hungarian cuisine warms body and soul.

Prague, in the Czech Republic, with its well-preserved historic center and iconic bridges, is a city that seems straight out of a storybook, especially in autumn. The cool weather and vibrant colors of leaves falling from trees create a romantic setting perfect for walking tours. The banks of the Vltava River and Prague Castle gardens gain new life with the season’s warm tones, becoming ideal places to relax and appreciate the view. Families can enjoy a visit to Prague Zoo, one of Europe’s best, or explore the mysterious streets of the Malá Strana district, which enchant both adults and children with their stories and legends.

In Germany, the city of Munich is famous for Oktoberfest, which occurs from late September through October. Although it’s a traditional festival aimed more at adults, the destination offers other family events during autumn, such as harvest festivals and autumn markets. The landscapes around the Bavarian Alps also become incredibly picturesque.