The best places to see fall foliage: Leaf peeping around the world
Calling all leaf peepers and foliage fanatics! Looking for autumn travel ideas? Here’s your guide on where to see fall colors around the world.
As summer comes to an end and autumn’s crisp air settles in, a stunning natural sight sweeps in: golden foliage. And with the changing leaves comes the stunning opportunity for travelers to enjoy some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the golden hues of Vermont or colorful spectacles in Kyoto, fall foliage travel offers an unmatched display of amber-tinted natural beauty. Wondering, “When is peak fall foliage on display?” Or, maybe you’re simply curious about the best fall vacations? Good news: We’re here to make your leaf peeping effortless. Here’s a roundup of the best places to see fall colors and tours that’ll take you there.
New England, USA
New England is one of the top fall foliage destinations, and there’s no better way to witness the changing leaves than on our Fall Foliage Tour: Vermont to Massachusetts. Starting in the scenic state of Vermont, you’ll be greeted with a vibrant tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows that’ll make the Green Mountains come alive before your eyes. As you make your way to Massachusetts, charming small towns provide an idyllic setting for leaf peeping. With a mix of history, culture, and stunning fall views, this tour gives you the best of New England in its most colorful season (from late September to late October).
Kyoto, Japan
Japan’s fall foliage is a spectacle that can’t be missed—and Kyoto is the star of the show. Known for its serene temples and stunning gardens, Kyoto’s vibrant fall colors create a magical atmosphere, making it one of the best places to see fall foliage. Take our Japan: Kyoto, the Japanese Alps & Tokyo tour in the second half of November to soak in all the garnet and amber hues. As you explore, the vibrant reds and golds of the maples frame iconic landmarks like Himeji Castle and Kinkaku-ji (the Temple of the Golden Pavilion). You’ll relish experiencing the contrast between tradition and innovation, all under the canopy of fall foliage, on this unforgettable tour.
The Rocky Mountains, Canada
Canada’s Rocky Mountains are a foliage lover’s dream, and setting off on our Canadian Rockies by Train: Banff, Lake Louise & Vancouver tour is one of the best autumn travel ideas. Take this trip in late September to early October, and you’ll claim a front-row seat to the beauty of this region during its most colorful season. As you ride the rails through Banff National Park, you’ll see the vibrant foliage set the colors of the landscape ablaze. The turquoise waters of majestic Lake Louise stand in contrast to the fiery reds and oranges of the surrounding forests, creating a picture-perfect photo just waiting to be captured. From the stunning mountain views to the bustling city of Vancouver, some of Canada’s most mesmerizing fall scenery is yours to explore on this trip.
Bavaria, Germany
If you’re looking for a mix of culture and stunning fall foliage, the Bavarian countryside offers both in spades. This means that our Switzerland, Germany & Italy tour is your ticket to visit some of the best places to see fall foliage. This trip takes you to the heart of Bavaria, where rolling hills and forest landscapes become a brilliant display of color in the fall. As you wander through charming villages like Schwangau, the town below Neuschwanstein Castle, with its fairy-tale castles and cobblestone streets, you’ll be surrounded by the shimmering shades of autumn. Whether you’re sipping a stein of beer (Oktoberfest also falls from late September to early October, so read up on this epic festival!) or hiking through forests dusted with fallen leaves, this tour makes one of the best fall vacations.
Want more autumn travel ideas? See our other tips on where to travel in the fall.
The UK and Ireland
From Scotland’s castle-dotted landscapes to Ireland’s rolling hills, the fall season is a magical time to explore the U.K. and Ireland. Take our Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland tour from mid-October to mid-November to experience the rich tapestry of autumn colors as you visit centuries-old castles, lush gardens, and quaint villages. Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh—with its castle overlooking the city’s cobbled streets—is dramatic in the fall, while Ireland’s countryside offers sweeping views of golden fields. England’s charming countryside and historic cities are beautifully framed by the warm shades of autumn. All of this comes together to make the U.K. and Ireland two of the best countries for fall colors.
If you’re curious about bonus benefits of planning your trip for leaf-peeping season, check out the added perks of traveling in the offseason.
The Douro Valley, Portugal
We couldn’t wrap up this list of fall foliage destinations without mentioning Portugal—specifically the Douro Valley. For a unique fall foliage experience, head to this region, known for its terraced vineyards and breathtaking river views. Take our Grand Tour of Portugal: From Porto to Lisbon in late September into October, and you’ll not only be surrounded by vibrant fall foliage but also the rich reds and golds of the wine harvest season (as we mention in our season-by-season Portugal guide). The Douro Valley’s steep hills are dotted with picturesque villages and wineries, and the fall harvest makes it an especially vibrant time to visit. As the vines turn color, the entire region seems to glow with warm hues. Leaf peeping here is perfect for wine lovers and anyone seeking the serene beauty of Portugal’s countryside in the fall.
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