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Best autumn travel destinations for cooler weather?

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Silvia_M
Joined:
07.10.2022
Posts: 1108
Topic Starter
01.01.2025 05:44
My partner and I are finally looking to take a week off in October, but we're struggling to settle on a location. We really love the crisp autumn air and seeing the leaves change, so we're hoping to find somewhere that isn't too hot or too crowded. We've considered New England, but I'm worried it might be a bit overpriced during peak foliage season. Does anyone have recommendations for hidden gems or quieter spots in North America or Europe that are perfect for a relaxing fall trip? Any advice on how to time the foliage would be a huge help too.
13 replies in this topic
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Goshko_Bolo
Joined:
30.01.2024
Posts: 1538
08.01.2025 10:46
If you want to avoid the New England crowds, try the Eastern Townships in Quebec. It is absolutely stunning in October and feels much more relaxed than Vermont.
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damian_varna
Joined:
01.11.2023
Posts: 1806
24.01.2025 07:20
In reply to a previous post
I second the Quebec suggestion! It is beautiful and usually a bit cheaper than the US side of the border.
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Zhivko_D
Joined:
09.07.2022
Posts: 620
17.03.2025 20:36
Have you looked into the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia or North Carolina? October is perfect there, and the air is so crisp.
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star_vulk
Joined:
15.12.2024
Posts: 314
09.04.2025 02:50
In reply to a previous post
The Blue Ridge Parkway is great, but be warned that it gets very busy on weekends during peak foliage. Try going mid-week if you can.
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chicho_savet
Joined:
17.02.2022
Posts: 2168
11.05.2025 10:40
For Europe, consider the Black Forest in Germany. It is magical in the fall and much less touristy than the major cities.
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GospodinNikoi
Joined:
18.11.2024
Posts: 2094
09.07.2025 14:44
In reply to a previous post
Do you need a car for the Black Forest? I've been wanting to go but I don't drive.
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Hani_B
Joined:
25.01.2023
Posts: 1770
18.07.2025 08:48
In reply to a previous post
The train system in that part of Germany is actually excellent, so you don't necessarily need a car to enjoy the scenery.
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Alisa_K
Joined:
22.04.2021
Posts: 2034
29.11.2025 03:44
If you want something truly quiet, head to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It is breathtaking and you won't deal with the massive crowds you find in New England.
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Znaesht
Joined:
15.01.2022
Posts: 1082
17.01.2026 20:47
In reply to a previous post
To track the foliage, just look up 'fall foliage maps' online. Most states and countries have dedicated tracking sites that update weekly starting in September.
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misho_777
Joined:
25.09.2024
Posts: 2108
23.02.2026 06:08
Don't overlook the Pacific Northwest! Specifically, the Columbia River Gorge. It is cooler, rainy, and smells like pine and wet leaves-peak autumn vibes.
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Stasi_B
Joined:
05.08.2025
Posts: 774
25.02.2026 12:55
In reply to a previous post
I personally think October is a bit late for the PNW, it starts getting pretty gloomy by then. I'd stick to the East Coast.
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gost_nedelq
Joined:
23.09.2022
Posts: 663
03.03.2026 18:04
What about Transylvania in Romania? It is incredibly affordable, the autumn colors are world-class, and it is definitely a hidden gem.
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Stasi_B
Joined:
27.08.2025
Posts: 649
03.04.2026 14:33
In reply to a previous post
Transylvania is a fantastic idea, the castles look so cool surrounded by autumn leaves. It is definitely on my bucket list.

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