30 Ultimate Fall Bucket List Destinations Around the World

Are you looking for ideas for your fall bucket list? How about an adventure with kids for fall break? Or perhaps the best countries to visit in October for a couple’s getaway? Do you love to photograph brilliant fall colors in the most beautiful villages in the world?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I would recommend all of these Instagrammable places as off-season destinations, especially if you love vibrant fall foliage and don’t mind cooler days as you explore around the world.

30 Ultimate Fall Bucket List Destinations

Traveling to the most beautiful villages in the world during the cooler days of fall might just be the best time to plan your next vacation. Chris and I appreciate that many of the destinations have pleasant weather, tourist traffic is not as crazy, and prices are often less expensive.

Here’s 30 of the best countries to visit in October—our favorites!

Best Countries to Visit in October: Belgium

1. Bruges

If you have ever had the pleasure to visit Bruges, you know that it is among the most beautiful villages in the world. This charming European town is often referred to as the Venice of the North.

First things first, buy some beignets before you set out to discover the Instagrammable places of Bruges:

• Canal tour
• Horse and buggy ride through the cobbled streets
• Bruges Photo Point at the corner of Rozenhoedkaai Street and Huidenvettersplein town square: Quay of the Rosary
• Blinde Ezelstraat (The blind donkey street)
• Windmills

2. Ghent

Walking along Korenlei Street in Ghent is like stepping into a medieval storybook setting with the buildings, the canal, the cobblestone streets, the smell, the beautiful sunshine. It too is one of the most beautiful villages in the world.

You’ll want to be sure to visit Korenmarkt, tour St. Nicholas’ Church, visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and take a boat tour along the canal.

Best Countries to Visit in October: Canada

3. Montréal, Quebec

Montréal, the most populated city in Quebec, has activities for every type of traveler.

Here are few things to do in Montréal that are simply outstanding in the fall:

• Hike Mount Royal aka “The Mountain” for colorful views overlooking the city
• Explore the botanical gardens
• Stick around for the magical Gardens of Light show that runs through September and October. Chris and I loved this. It is a feast for the eyes.

4. Victoria, British Columbia

While it is amazingly beautiful in Vancouver and on Vancouver Island as off season destinations, it may be a bit chilly too.

Be sure that you make time to explore Butchart Gardens. The gardens are outstanding. Did you know that they have 70 gardeners on staff? Except for a few fallen leaves, the gardens are immaculate and weed free.

NOTE * Entrance to Butchart Gardens requires a reservation. Be sure to plan ahead.

You’ll also want to include these adventures in your fall bucket list itinerary:

• Fisgard Lighthouse
• Whale watching excursions
• Explore Fisherman’s Wharf and the Inner Harbour
• Take an “H20” Taxi in Victoria Harbor
• Try the Dallas Road Walk
• Explore Beacon Hill Park
• Visit Craigdarroch Castle
• Experience the salmon run

5. Waterton National Park, Alberta

Waterton National Park is a must-see destination on your next visit to Alberta. Not only is it one of the best national parks in Alberta, it is also one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

I grew up camping with my family every summer in Waterton National Park. While there, it was always tradition to stop first at Cameron Falls. We also loved Cameron Lake, Red Rocks, hiking Bears Hump, and stopping at the iconic Prince of Wales hotel.

Tourists flock to the park year round to see and enjoy its beauty. You’ll find activities from hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, golfing, boat tours, wildlife sightings, walking along the lake, and strolling along the streets of Waterton.

Best Countries to Visit in October: England

6. Bath

This is one of the day trips from London for families that will be an intriguing adventure with kids. The Roman Baths are located in Bath, a historic city about 2.5 hours outside of London.

Beyond a tour of the Roman Baths, you can also see:

• Bath Abbey
• The Circus (a historic street that forms a circle filled with unique townhomes)
• Pulteney Bridge
• The River Avon

7. London

There are so many cool and epic things to do in London that deciding what to see and do might be a little overwhelming. London is a vibrant city with major landmarks and tourist attractions all over the city.

If you are visiting for the first time, pick a few of your favorite sites to see. You probably won’t get to everything:

• Big Ben
• Buckingham Palace
• Covent Gardens
• London Eye
• Notting Hill
• Parliament
• River Thames
• St. Paul’s Cathedral
• Westminster Abbey

>> Related: 13 Tips Americans Should Know When Driving in the United Kingdom

Best Countries to Visit in October: France

8. Paris

Whether it is Paris in the fall, an adventures with kids, a romantic getaway with your sweetheart, or an extended visit to explore the city, Paris holds the hearts and dreams of many. It IS one of the most Instagrammable places in the world.

Do You even NEED reasons to add Paris to your fall bucket list?

Paris shines with a vibrant cafe culture, museums, decadent desserts, historic landmarks and Instagrammable moments at almost every corner.

The best time to plan your adventure to Paris is often during the fall from late September to early October. The crowds have just returned home and the sun is still warm enough for pleasant days exploring.

9. South of France

If you have ever dreamed of visiting the South of France, choosing it as one of your off season destinations has its pros and cons. As a pro, there are fewer tourists to deal with, however, many of the villages shut down restaurants, shops, and sites in the off season due to reduced tourism and shorter daylight hours.

When Chris and I visited in the fall of 2017, Fredrick, our hotel concierge, recommended these towns and villages:

• Lourmarin
• Bonnieux
• Gordes
• Abbey of Sénanque
• Goult
• Les Baux-de-Provence
• St. Remy

Be sure to rent a car and pack a picnic lunch. Driving along the winding back roads of the Luberon Valley past some of the most beautiful villages in the world is part of the magic.

Best Countries to Visit in October: Italy

10. Bologna

Did you know that Bologna boasts almost 25 miles (40 km) of portico-covered streets? If you happen to visit Bologna on a rainy day in the fall, you will certainly appreciate this architectural feature.

As I explored Bologna solo while my husband had business meetings, I walked from the train station and easily found the tourism office in the Piazza Maggiore and picked up a map. The Basilica of San Petronio, Bologna’s unfinished cathedral, stands in this piazza.

Orient yourself with the Neptune fountain and the Cathedral and then begin exploring the Quadrilatero District.

The Quadrilatero is Bologna’s oldest market district where you can taste Italian street food, peruse local shops, and sample baked goods, local meats and cheeses.

• Quaint food stalls and shops – a foodie’s delight
• The University District
• The Jewish Quarter
• Two Towers – the Garisenda and Asinelli Towers
• Biblioteca Comunale dell’Archiginnasio Anatomical Theater and Library
• Cathedrals

If you have the time, find the Small Window on Via Piella to discover the ideal spot to view one of the Instagrammable places of Bologna.

Find a place to stay in Bologna

11. Cinque Terre

As Chris and I exited the train station in Monterosso al Mare in Cinque Terre with our bags in tow, we walked right out to the waterfront area of the “newer” section of Monterosso. I couldn’t help but take pictures.

If this was what Italy looked like in the early fall, it quickly jumped to the top of my list of best countries to visit in October!

If sunbathing is on your wish list of things to do while visiting Cinque Terre, Monterosso is the perfect option. It also makes it one of the best places to swim in Cinque Terre. Plan your fall bucket list itinerary to Cinque Terre with visit to all five of the small towns:

• Monterosso al Mare
• Vernazza
• Corniglia
• Manarola
• Riomaggiore

12. Florence

As the capital city of Tuscany, Florence is a perfect place to begin your adventures in Italy. While a little more centrally located, it is great if you want to explore in any direction.

Noted for its significant art, cathedrals and monuments, Florence is the home to many world-famous museums and galleries. Most famous among those are the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell’Accademia which displays Michelangelo’s “David”. 

Thousands of tourists flock to Florence each year to see the works of famous masters such as Michelangelo, da Vinci, Botticelli, Giotto, Raphael, and Titian.

>> Related: 17 Dreamy Small Towns in Italy Near Florence

13. Lake Como

One of your first day trips in Italy should be spent wandering the streets of Varenna and Bellagio in the Lake Como region of Italy—both fantastic fall bucket list destinations.

Varenna is simply amazing in its beauty. Every walkway, doorway, and passageway is a photographer’s dream.

I explored these towns on my own while my husband had to continue on to work meetings. Chris was pretty bummed to miss out.

The streets are lined with shops and narrow stairways made even more perfect with beautifully decorated entrances and grape vines clinging to walls and changing to brilliant shades of red.

After a couple of hours exploring in Varenna, take the ferry across Lake Como to Bellagio.

If you arrive in Bellagio in the morning hours during the off season, you will find the streets are not terribly crowded with tourists. Have your camera ready for all of the Instagrammable places.

14. Milan

While long considered one of the “fashion capitals” of the world, as the 3rd largest city in Italy, Milan is also thought of as one of the most romantic cities in all of Europe.

Instagrammable Places to See:

• Book a tour to see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci
• Tour the rooftop of the Duomo
• Attend a performance at the world-famous Teatro alla Scala or Scala Theatre
• Wander along Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Find the bull mosaic, place your heel inside the hole, and spin 3 times. Tradition says to make a wish and hope it comes true!

My wish? Come back to Italy every fall!

15. Orvieto

Orvieto should be added to your fall bucket list for sure. And it would be perfect for your adventures with kids or as a couple’s getaway.

Orvieto sits atop a very steep cliff—a rupe—visible for miles before you even arrive. The easiest way up the side of the cliff is to catch the funicular after you leave the train station.

Explore the Duomo inside and out. The exterior has an amazing striped facade.

Purchase tickets for an Underground Cave Tour. Most of the homes in Orvieto have caves dug out underneath (following strict specifications). Today they are used for storage and wine cellars, but years ago they were used for olive oil production with olive presses, for cold storage, and as nesting spots for pigeons (they were used for food).

16. Siena

Siena is a short one hour and 15 minutes bus ride from Florence along a beautiful route skirted with wineries dotting the mountain sides. Bellisimo.

There is so much to explore in Siena with Instagrammable places everywhere you look.

My best advice is to purchase the OPA SI Pass if you would like to visit all of the museums in the Cathedral Complex:

• Cathedral (with art treasures by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini)
• Piccolomini Library
• Baptistry of San Giovanni
• Crypt
• Museo dell’Opera
• Panoramic terrace of the Duomo Nuovo (unfinished facade of the cathedral)
• San Bernardino Oratory
• Santa Maria della Scala hospital and museum
• Old Hospital

Chris and I thought the most amazing part of our day was being able to climb up to the unfinished facade of the church, navigating narrowing circular stairs until the breathtaking view of Siena in 360 degrees of glory unfolded around us.

Best Countries to Visit in October: Malta

17. Gozo

Gozo, an island belonging to the Republic of Malta, can be considered the smaller sister island of Malta.

Things to do in Gozo:

• Tour the Cittadella (Citadel) in Victoria
• Explore the Blue Hole at Dwejra
• Eat gelato
• Ride the Hop On Hop Off bus

Once you arrive by ferry, be sure to schedule a taxi or Hop On Hop Off tour. The walk to Victoria is miles away and if the buses are already full, they won’t stop. Trust me on this one!

18. Malta

The palm trees and sunshine of Malta are welcome sights as one of the best countries to visit in October.

Malta has many walkable areas, but it is also fairly inexpensive to book taxis, water taxis, buses, and ferries to these Instagrammable places around the island.

• Upper Barrakka Gardens next to the Castille Palace
• Valletta
• Marsaxlokk
• Mdina

We chose to visit Malta after being inspired by Pinterest. Malta may not be as well known as Italy or France, but it would definitely be one of my recommendations for fall travel.

Best Countries to Visit in October: Netherlands

19. Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the popular tourist destinations around the world. It is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in the world.

The canal houses in Amsterdam are typically narrow, tall and deep and overlook a canal. In medieval times, homes were taxed on their width, so these homes were built to be thin to keep taxes low. That didn’t stop the residents from incorporating brilliant color—there was no tax on that.

These colorful row homes have inspired illustrations, fantastic photos, Instagram posts and a fall bucket list or two. You’ll find these iconic canal houses between Amsterdam Centraal Station and Dam Square.

Once you visit Amsterdam, be sure to add the colorful tulip fields of the Netherlands to your spring bucket list. (They are definitely on my bucket list!)

Best Countries to Visit in October: Spain

20. Segovia

Chris and I recommend that when you arrive in Segovia, walk past the Aqueduct (come back to that later in the day) and go toward the Alcazar of Segovia—literally meaning Segovia Fortress—a castle on the far end of town.

Did you know the Alcazar of Segovia castle was used as a model for the Disney Cinderella castle? You can purchase tickets for an audio tour of the castle.

Climb to the top of the castle to enjoy the views overlooking the city. Maybe post a few photos to Instagram while you are there!

Note * For many destinations on your fall bucket list, remember that the sun sets in the late afternoon during the off season and temperatures start to cool off.

21. Toledo

Toledo, pronounced Toe-leh-doh, is an amazing walled fortress perched on the side of the hill.

You will be grateful for the escalators that allow easy access up the side of the hill.

If you are a photographer, you will also love all of the alleyways and beautiful entrances, the winding paths and shuttered windows.

Sites to see in Toledo:

• Catedral de Toledo
• Old Town
• Jewish Quarter
• Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes
• El Tránsito Synagogue – Jewish Synagogue
• Santa Cruz Museum
• Mezquita Cristo de la Luz
• Las Murallas (Ramparts)
• Alcázar de Toledo

Best Countries to Visit in October: Switzerland

22. Lucerne

You may recognize Chapel Bridge as one of Lucerne’s famous landmarks.

From the moment Chris and I walked out of the train station in Lucerne, we were captivated by this lovely, colorful Swiss town.

If you have a day or two to spend exploring, discover a variety of unique things to do in Lucerne:

• Walk along the Chapel Bridge
• Explore the Musegg Fortification
• Stroll along Lake Lucerne
• Visit Old Town
• Find the Lion of Lucerne
• Visit Mt. Pilatus and Mt. Rigi

23. Lugano

The picturesque city of Lugano, in the heart of the Ticino canton of Switzerland, is tucked along the shores of Lake Lugano surrounded by majestic mountains. 

As the biggest city in this region with approximately 63,000 residents, Lugano is often referred to as Switzerland’s “Little Italy”.

You will find plenty of fun things to do in Lugano all year long and a variety of appealing reasons why you should plan your next vacation to Switzerland in the fall.

• Take photos along Lake Lugano
• Ride the funicular to Mt. Bre
• Hike
• Take a ferry around the lake
• Stroll through Parco Ciani
• Get a massage!

24. Mt. Pilatus

Chris and I were excited for this overnight stay in the Swiss Alps. We easily traveled up to the top of Mt. Pilatus with our luggage in tow and deposited our bags and backpacks in our room before checking out the view and the mountain.

As it was October, the hotel was not packed at all. We hiked to Tomlishorn, climbed to Oberhaupt to watch the magnificent sunset, enjoyed an overnight stay at Hotel Pilatus Kulm, and paraglided off Mt. Pilatus in the morning. It was epic.

25. Mt. Rigi

You will want to catch the steamboat from Lucerne to Vitznau to reach Mt. Rigi. Don’t be like Chris and I though; we raced to the boat and settled in with one minute to spare! The ticket office is located across the street from the train station in Lucerne.

When you get off the boat at Vitznau and you plan to ride the cog rail up to Mt. Rigi, catch the next cog rail as soon as you get off the boat. It is just steps from where you get off the boat. Otherwise you’ll be waiting for an hour for the next rail. The best things to do on Mt. Rigi are to enjoy the view, ride the cog rail, and go for a hike. You’ll see Instagrammable places and cows!

Best Countries to Visit in October: United States

26. Anacortes, Washington

Chris and I planned a whale watching excursion from Anacortes, Washington! It was a fun adventure with kids for fall break. One of the many fall bucket list adventures you’ll want to plan for in the great state of Washington.

Anacortes is just a 90-mile drive from downtown Seattle.

Due to the calm winds and waters of the San Juan islands, this area is an ideal place to view orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, and gray whales as well as a myriad of other wildlife.

Did you know that all of the whales are documented and named and can be identified by their features and fin? “Split Fin”, a humpback whale, likes to swim close to the island and puts on a good show once spotted.

27. Boston, Massachusetts

Despite the potential for chilly weather and rain in October, Boston might just become one of your favorite fall bucket list destinations to visit with all of its historical significance.

That, and maybe Mike’s Pastry shop.

If you have never explored the Freedom Trail, this is a must-do activity, especially as an adventure with kids. One of our daughters was studying US History at the time, and Boston brought the history to life for her!

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile red brick path along the sidewalks in Boston. You can pick up one of the Freedom Trail Official Brochures for a self-guided tour along the trail. Put on your walking shoes and step back in time.

Significant Sites Along the Freedom Trail That You Don’t Want to Miss

• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Common – America’s oldest public park
• Granary Burying Ground 
• King’s Chapel Burying Ground
• Boston Latin School Site with the Benjamin Franklin Statue
• Old Corner Bookstore
• Old South Meeting House
• Old State House
• Boston Massacre Site
• Paul Revere House
• Old North Church
• USS Constitution
• USS Constitution Museum
• Bunker Hill Monument

28. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is about one hour away from Denver International Airport with the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop. If you are looking for things to do in Colorado Springs for adventures with kids, you’ll find plenty of amazing opportunities in the Springs in the spring, summer, winter and fall.

Colorado Springs is home to the amazing Garden of the Gods—supernatural red rock formations that create one of the most unique and picturesque parks in the world. “The Garden” is one of those instagrammable places that is simply breathtaking.

While in Colorado Springs you can also:

• Visit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
• Tour the Air Force Academy
• Visit the Broadmoor Hotel
• Take a train or drive up to Pikes Peak
• Hike the Manitou Incline
• Tour the Olympic Training Center

29. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

Perhaps the lack of an entrance fee is why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the busiest national parks in the United States and a fabulous option for off season destinations in the Fall. (There is a parking pass required.)

An App called GuideAlong offers an excellent guided tour throughout the park. Using the wonders of GPS and satellite, the commentary plays automatically as you pass a GPS point, sharing behind-the-scene stories, tips, side trips, and driving directions.

As you drive through the park, you can visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, stop for short hikes along “Quiet Walkways”, visit Clingmans Dome, and explore Cade’s Cove.

Just a piece of advice: If there is a site you really want to see in the park or surrounding area, go early in the day. Around noon, the tourist traffic really multiplies. Everyone is there for the fall foliage if you are visiting during the off season. 

30. Oregon Coast

Fall is a stunning time to visit Oregon—especially the coast as a fall bucket list destination. If Portland is your starting point, the trees are popping with beautiful reds, yellows, and oranges all around the airport.

There are a myriad of beach towns along the entirety of the Oregon coast. Some have a heavy tourism focus while others are quiet little beach communities. The commonality among them all are the beautiful sandy beaches, the crashing of the surf, and spectacular sunsets.

Just a few fall bucket List destinations to explore along the coast:

• Seaside
• Astoria
• Rockaway Beach
• Cape Meares Lighthouse and State Scenic Viewpoint
• Tillamook Cheese Factory
• Lincoln City
• Oswald State Park

Be Prepared for the Weather in Your Low Season Destinations

Having the right gear for travel is essential. These are items I use and recommend for travel.

You will want to pack your umbrella, gloves, puffy jacket, and scarves. The weather could surprise you with glorious fall sunshine or chilly rainy days.

Some of these low season destinations may have you wanting gloves too.

• Portable Charger
• Headphones, Airpods, or corded earbuds
• Cell Phone
• Tablet and Keyboard
• Cable Organizer
• DSLR Camera, Point and Shoot Camera, or Underwater Camera
• Camera battery, Charger, Memory Card
• Power Strip
• Apple Watch
• The North Face Recon Backpack for Women
• The North Face Recon Backpack for Men
• Travelon Crossbody Messenger Bag

Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Thoughts on 30 Ultimate Fall Bucket List Destinations Around the World

While fall may not be the warmest time of the year to travel to some destinations, it certainly is beautiful. Plan accordingly for the weather and you will be rewarded with amazing sites and fewer tourists for the best low season vacations.

Quite often it is less expensive to travel to these low season destinations. That’s a bonus too!

Original Publish Date: October 22, 2021

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