What’s more romantic than snuggling over a hot cup of pumpkin-spiced something? Answer: These 9 destinations that are even more stunning in Autumn.
Ditch the stresses of work, bussing the kids around, and PTA bake sales to go make some memories with your honey.
1. Verona, Italy
A classic for a reason. Verona is a famously romantic destination due to its spectacular position on the Adige river and for the Casa di Giulietta, rumored to be the inspiration for Juliet’s balcony in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The 13th-century house and balcony is a pilgrimage for lovers but is only a small part of the historic city. Verona is packed with awesome sites and attractions. Stroll around the Giardino Giusti, a garden sculpted for the nobility that everyone can now enjoy. Local legend says that lovers who can find each other in the garden’s small labyrinth are destined to stay together.
2. Santorini, Greece
Enjoy an authentic Greek experience in Santorini this Autumn. No tourists hogging restaurant reservations and no need to wake up at 6 am to get a spot on the beach. Plus, while the rest of Europe starts getting chilly, Santorini will still be a pleasant 73°F even in October. (Perfect for midnight swimming season.) For an added bit of romance, try out one of Santorini’s winery tours — Boutari near Megalohóri is one of the island’s most popular and hosts tours daily.
3. New England
Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire in Autumn can’t be beaten. These classic New England getaways have been the backdrop of countless books and movies — and for good reason. With the changing leaves, the warm Autumn sun, the cool breeze… something about these original colonies is just ripe for romance. Maine is our personal favorite, with a rich landscape for kayaking, fishing, hiking and, of course, the Maine Beer Trail. It’s the perfect place to get lost in with a loved one and embrace the cozy sweater-weather vibes.
4. Lake District, England
Autumn is the ideal season to explore the Lake District in England’s northwestern mountain region. Ullswater is the second biggest lake in the Lake District and sports one of its best hill-walks, the Aira Force Glencoyne Farm trail. This hike will take you through one of the largest farms in the area and brings you to the top of the park for an incredible view. Nestle by the fire in one of the region’s classic English countryside pubs afterward — we recommend The Mill Inn, just up from Ullswater.
5. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
On the border of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina lies the Plitvice Lakes National Park, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Its famous turquoise-colored lakes are a must-see for all travelers. While it’s not a hidden gem and serves a decent amount of tourists, in Autumn you’re less likely to be fighting others for the perfect photo op. Our advice: Get there early to avoid big ticket lines and to see the more popular routes. The parks website has tons of information on trails, food in the park and the animals that inhabit it. Oh, and don’t forget to grab a FOMO-inducing snap for your work colleagues back home.
6. Portofino, Italy
Famous for its colorful harbor homes, Portofino is the quintessential Italian coastal village that has attracted celebrities and artists over the years. Visit the San Fruttuoso Abbey between Portofino and Camaologi, which puts you in the perfect position to visit the mysterious Christ of the Abyss. This submerged bronze statue sits 15-feet underwater and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Diving down under is the only way to see it.
7. Seville, Spain
The Andalusian capital of Seville is bathed in sunlight in the Autumn months with average temperatures ranging from 59-77°F from September to November – making it practically designed for the classic romantic getaway. Known for its architectural attractions, many visitors spend their days visiting landmarks like the Alcázar castle complex or walking through the Jewish quarter of Santa Cruz. We also recommend visiting a flamenco bar in the evening to test your moves.
8. Moselle Valley, Germany
It’s a cliché but parts of Germany look like they have been plucked from the pages of a 19th-century fairytale. These parts include the Moselle Valley — a perfect example of everything that’s romantic about Germany. The river twists and turns around small villages, castles tower along the skyline, and vineyards of the country’s best Rieslings are just waiting to be discovered. Visit Cochem for a traditional tourist experience, but if you feel like venturing off the beaten path make a stop at the village of Beilstein.
9. Sofia, Bulgaria
The laid-back city of Sofia isn’t as well-known as its sister-city, Bucharest. However, savvy travelers know that it’s a beautiful place to explore in the Autumn months. Around this time of year, the city will be less bustling than in its peak tourist season. With ancient origins, Sofia has been inhabited since 7000 BC, which explains the city’s varying architectural complexes and sometimes incompatible aesthetic. Once you’ve packed thousands of years of civilization into your head, stop by the One More Bar in the city center for a cocktail and a taste of Sofia nightlife.
Looking for more fall travel ideas (romantic or not)? Check out our Fall Travel Guide for global trending destinations, domestic destinations under $300 and more travel tips.
Header Image Attribution: Creative Travel Projects/Shutterstock.com
