Autumn is the favourite season of many people when it comes to travelling. If you’re lucky enough to be able to take a few days off, why not take a look at some of the destinations our travel expert has selected? They are especially beautiful this time of year.
The best way to shake off that lethargic feeling that we get in autumn is to plan a short but intense getaway – a trip that helps clear away the cobwebs so we can return to our routines, which we have a love-hate relationship with. Luckily we are only one short flight away from many amazing destinations in Europe and we can soon get to beautiful and vibrant cities where we can enjoy autumn.
What do you fancy?
Florence
If Florence feels incredibly romantic in summer when it’s 40 degrees in the shade and overcrowded with tourists arriving by land, sea and air, imagine what it can feel like in autumn, with the soft light falling on Ponte Vecchio. And don't forget the city’s squares (like the beautiful Santa Croce, which is less busy), trattorias and cafés, alleys, churches and, of course, the spectacular Duomo. Don’t miss the Piazzale Michelangelo viewpoint to enjoy a breath-taking panoramic view of the city in autumn.
Paris
Ride on the merry-go-round in Jardin des Tuileries; or stroll along the tree-lined banks of the River Seine, along the Champs-Élysées or through the Père Lachaise Cemetery (which is as romantic as it is eerie) – these are things not to be missed if you happen to choose Paris in autumn. The city will welcome you with open arms and offer you a wide range of cultural and artistic events, with festivals such as the popular Paris Autumn Festival, which has been taking place since the seventies.
Barcelona
Enjoy the view of the city from Montjuïc hill, explore the medieval narrow streets of the romantic old town, go for a walk in Parc de la Ciutadella and visit iconic museums such as Casa Batlló or the national art museum, MNAC. Barcelona is perfect all year round and even if we go in autumn, the weather might be nice so we can go to the beach and bathe in sea, as the temperature is always pleasant. If horror films are your thing, make sure you get down to Sitges, a beautiful town on the coast not very far from Barcelona, and go to the International Fantastic Film Festival in the first half of October.
Seville
The good thing about Seville is that you won’t need a coat in autumn! The pavement cafés are full of people enjoying beer and tapas, just like in summer! A great plan is to enjoy this joyful atmosphere and end the day soaking up the sun in the beautiful Plaza de España or in the Reales Alcázares Gardens.
Granada
The white streets of the Albaicín, with its endless nooks and crannies and magical corners, are the perfect place for an autumn getaway that you’re sure to love. Enjoy the city at your feet from San Nicolás Viewpoint, under the beautiful autumn sky, visit the Alhambra or explore the bustling streets of the city centre: these are just a few things that you can do in one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
