Europe in the fall
Thinking of spending fall in Europe, but don't know where to start? We've got some top tips for making the most of Europe this autumn.
Fall is an excellent time to visit Europe. The big summer crowds have started to die down, the weather is milder, and you can experience cities as the locals do. Let's face it, no one enjoys waiting in massive lines for museums in the blazing heat during the summer. So why not pick a month when you can take on the continent at your own pace?
The season brings a wide range of exciting events, and if you're a sports fan, you're really spoiled for choice. The Ryder Cup comes to Rome at the end of September, and the Rugby World Cup takes place across France throughout September and October. Football fans can catch five NFL games in Europe between October and November in either the UK or Germany.
Sport not your thing? You'll also find unique seasonal events taking place in fall that will give you your culture fix. The world-famous Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, and Bonfire Night in the UK are both must-sees for those who love a good party. And if you want to take things a bit slower, we can also recommend the best spots for getting pics of the glorious colors of fall foliage across the continent.
Keep scrolling for more details on how to make the most of your autumn in Europe.
Looking for where to visit Europe this fall?
Perhaps you have a particular month in mind for your European vacation? Look no further than our round-up on the best things to do in Europe this September and October.
Top events in Europe this fall
You won't run out of things to do in Europe this fall. From massive sporting events like the Ryder Cup to quiet moments while truffle hunting in the Italian forests, there is something for everyone. Here's our selection of the best places in Europe to visit in autumn.
Rugby World Cup
September 8th–October 28th
Rugby's most eagerly awaited international competition comes to France this year. 48 matches, 20 teams, 9 host cities, 4 pools of teams and one trophy.
And if you're up for a bit of sightseeing between all the sporting action, this fall's championship is hosted by some of the most beautiful destinations in France, all of which are accessible from Paris by train.
Need to plan your journey, and get more info on the host cities? Take a look at our article which covers how, when, and where to see the Rugby World Cup 2023.
Oktoberfest in Munich
September 16 – October 3rd
Much imitated but never bettered, the original Bavarian beer festival returns for its 188th year this fall. This world-famous cultural event draws in millions of eager revelers from around the globe every year.
Expect some of the best beer out there and a whole lotta Lederhosen!
Discover more about the best things to do at the Oktoberfest this year.
Ryder Cup 2023
September 25th – October 1st
All fairways lead to Rome in 2023.
Golf's biennial East-West showdown comes to the Eternal City this year – the first time in the competition's history that it has taken place in Italy.
Marco Simone Golf & Country Club plays host, and with the course only 10 miles away from the ancient sights and world-beating cuisine of the Italian capital, you'll have more than ample opportunity to sample some cultural highlights when you're not cheering on team USA.
Find out everything you need to know about the Ryder Cup 2023 here.
NFL Games in the UK and Germany
October 1st – November 12th
The NFL goes on a European vacation for 5 games this fall, with London and Frankfurt as host cities.
October 1: Atlanta Falcons vs. Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium, London
October 8: Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Buffalo Bills at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
October 15: Baltimore Ravens vs. Tennessee Titans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
November 5: Miami Dolphins vs. Kansas City Chiefs at Frankfurt Stadium, Frankfurt
November 12: Indianapolis Colts vs. New England Patriots at Frankfurt Stadium, Frankfurt
Football fans looking to make the most of their time in Europe need look no further than our selection of best day trips from London and Frankfurt. To get to grips on what else to do in these fantastic cities take a look at our handy guide which has all the info.
Bonfire Night
November 5th
Also known as Guy Fawkes' Night, Britain's autumnal celebration of fireworks and bonfires is a unique and historical event. Commemorating the foiling of an assassination attempt on King James I's life in 1605 – an assassination attempt that involved the Houses of Parliament and several barrels of gunpowder set up by the aforementioned Guy Fawkes – Bonfire Night draws crowds to parks across Great Britain for huge fireworks displays.
For our recommendations on the best places to see the fireworks in London, check out our article which covers the know-hows of this national holiday.
Best Fall Foliage
September – November
Maybe you're looking for the next best photo for your Insta feed, or maybe you just prefer exploring parks and forests at your own pace and soaking in the autumnal vibes.
Whatever your reason, Europe has got you covered when it comes to fall foliage.
To discover more read our article on the best places to snap those reds, oranges and yellows, and how to get there by train.
Truffle Hunting
September – November
Sometimes you just feel like heading out into a forest with a shovel and a loyal canine companion so you can get on your hands and knees and dig for some subterranean specialties.
Europe is famed for its truffles, and fall is truffle hunting season. You can find opportunities to sample these delicacies across Europe, but we recommend Italy in particular.
To get more information on how and where you can get involved, read our article on what to know about truffle hunting in Europe.
Fall travel tips
Fall is an excellent time to travel by train in Europe. But here are a few things to keep in mind when making your way by rail.
Rail Strikes / Engineering Works
Sometimes there may be some disruption to your journey because of strike action or planned engineering works. Normally, you'll be given advance warning about any upcoming disruption.
For more information on how to navigate train strikes, take a look at our guide on what to do if there is a train strike in Europe.
Standard class or First Class?
Many trains in Europe offer at least two train classes: standard and first class.
First class will often offer larger seats, access to a lounge at the station, and even a full meal with table service.
If you're interested in adding a bit of extra comfort to your journey, see our article on the difference between standard and first class on trains in Europe.
Traveling with kids?
Traveling with kids in Europe can be a magical experience, from meeting the infamous Bear at Paddington station to running through the wall at King's Cross to get to Platform 9 3/4.
But also remember to plan, pack and prepare so that your journey is as stress-free as possible.
Check out our top 9 tips for traveling with kids by train in Europe.
Traveling in Fall 2024?
If you're a US national traveling to Europe from 2024, you may need to meet new prearrival authorization requirements. A new waiver will be necessary to enter 30 European countries, and the application must be approved before entry.
It's normally a quick process, but we'd recommend completing it as soon as you book your travel.
For all the information on the new requirements check out everything you need to know here.