10 Best Destinations for the Perfect Fall Trip

There is officially only one week left until autumn, though the weather here in Chicago doesn't seem to have gotten the memo yet. While summer temperatures linger, we’re dreaming of those crisp autumn days—perfect for cozy adventures. From the historic streets of Innsbruck and Mexico City to the serene tranquility of the Oregon coast and a small town in the Canadian Rockies, we’ve rounded up a list of destinations around the globe to enjoy this coming season. But honestly, any of these spots guarantees an unforgettable trip, no matter the time of year. Start planning and get ready to hit the road...

Byron Bay, Australia

Inspired by Saxon Kent (whom you can find on Instagram), Byron Bay welcomes spring on Australia's northeast coast. Spring is an ideal time to visit Byron Bay and enjoy the warm weather before the summer crowds arrive. So, for those living in the Northern Hemisphere who want to extend that summer feeling a little longer, this is the perfect spot. Byron Bay’s beaches are considered among the most beautiful in the world and are ideal for taking those surfing lessons you’ve always wanted to try. Leave your phone at the hotel and start your day at a leisurely pace, watching the sunrise while listening to the sound of crashing waves. Take a yoga class, visit a craft brewery, attend one of the festivals held throughout the year, and enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace of life.

Canmore, Alberta (By Jennifer Jayne, Lattes community member)

If you’ve ever felt the urge to throw a travel bag in the car, head for the mountains, and disappear for a few days, go to Canmore. There is something almost unfairly magical about this small mountain town in the autumn. The air is crisp, the trees glow with vibrant golden hues, and the mountain views are spectacular. The best thing about Canmore is that you don’t have to choose between outdoor adventure and small-town charm. You can spend the morning hiking through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Canadian Rockies, the afternoon exploring local shops, and the evening sitting on a patio with a drink. Grizzly Paw Brewing Company is a great spot for a local beer or a cocktail; look for a seat near the fire pit on their outdoor patio. Patty Shack Burger Bar is the perfect place if burgers are your weakness. And the pastries, bread, and breakfast treats at KJ Bakery are well worth planning your morning around. There are hiking trails in every direction and scenic drives that will compel you to stop again and again to admire the landscape; plus, Banff is just minutes away if you want to take a gondola ride for panoramic views of the Rockies. An unexpected aspect of Canmore is the sense of peace that permeates the atmosphere. Life slows down here in the best possible way. It is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely coffee while watching the mountains change color as the sun moves across the sky throughout the day.

Cannon Beach and the Oregon Coast

The peak summer season begins to wind down in September, giving way to cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. October marks the start of the best time for whale watching, and the beaches offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It is the perfect opportunity to unplug and slow down. Recharge by reconnecting with nature, listening to the sound of the waves, and exploring a rugged, endless coastline that offers spectacular views and breathtaking sunsets. While the Oregon coast boasts many places worth visiting, Cannon Beach is an excellent destination to explore if it is your first time in the area. Located about 90 minutes from Portland, this charming coastal town offers a vibrant art scene, numerous hiking trails, craft breweries, and activities such as tide-pooling and surfing. You can extend your coastal trip by driving north to Astoria or south to Rockaway Beach or Pacific City.

Innsbruck, Austria

Located less than two hours from Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and France, Innsbruck is a destination well worth visiting in its own right. This Austrian city often goes unnoticed outside the peak winter season, frequently serving merely as a stopover on train journeys to other destinations. The historic city boasts colorful buildings, an Old Town with 500 years of history, exceptional local cuisine, and much more. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. Its location in the Alps makes it an ideal destination for winter skiing; however, outside the snowy months, many other activities await, such as beautiful hikes to enjoy the changing autumn foliage. A grand pedestrian boulevard is lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés featuring outdoor terraces—perfect for spending leisurely afternoons exploring the city—while numerous historic buildings transport visitors back in time. You can view the cenotaph of Emperor Maximilian I, tour Ambras Castle (renowned for its Renaissance architecture), visit the Hofburg Imperial Palace (former residence of the Habsburgs), or admire the Baroque style of St. James's Cathedral, which dates back to the 18th century.

Lisbon, Portugal

The tourist season begins to wind down as temperatures drop in Lisbon, making it an ideal destination to visit later in the year. Like many other places in Europe, this historic city offers beautiful autumn colors and boasts impressive architecture, delicious cuisine, and a rich local culture. Explore the open-air markets and art galleries, and be sure to venture outside the city to visit towns like Sintra. September also marks the start of the surf season in Nazaré, a coastal town located about 90 minutes north of Lisbon. Its extraordinary waves present a thrilling challenge for big-wave surfers (the XXL discipline) looking to conquer some of the largest and most dangerous waves in the world. Seeing them in person is, quite simply, an unforgettable experience.

Lucca, Italy

Located in the Italian region of Tuscany, Lucca is a charming, almost fairytale-like city that offers a more tranquil experience compared to other cities in the area. Its location is unbeatable: it lies less than half an hour from the beach and makes day trips to places like Livorno, Pisa, Florence, and Siena incredibly easy. Beyond its location, Tuscany is spectacular in autumn, with its beautiful fall colors and vineyards in the midst of the grape harvest. Lucca itself is a medieval city famous for the Renaissance walls that encircle it and for its historic villas. Visit the palace where Elisa Bonaparte—Napoleon’s sister—resided, or the botanical garden she inaugurated. Stroll through Piazza dell’Anfiteatro—built upon the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater—or climb the steps of the historic 14th-century Guinigi Tower to enjoy panoramic views. And don't forget that you are in Italy during the harvest season: sample exquisite Tuscan wines and enjoy the regional cuisine.

Mexico City, Mexico

Autumn brings pleasant temperatures—hovering around 24°C (75°F)—making it an ideal time to explore Mexico City, a place steeped in culture. Take advantage of the season to join in celebrations like Mexican Independence Day and the Day of the Dead, tour the city's parks and historic sites, enjoy a flavorful culinary scene, and much more. Each neighborhood offers something different, with a unique identity that sets it apart from the rest. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, Mexico City’s culinary scene is as vibrant as the city itself; in fact, the metropolis is worth a visit for its gastronomy alone. Furthermore, Mexico City is home to a vast number of museums—many dedicated to art—showcasing everything from Frida Kahlo’s home to historical artifacts and ancient ruins. And for book lovers: get ready, because Mexico City boasts one of the largest libraries in Latin America—the Vasconcelos Library.

Santa Monica, California

Last but not least, include Santa Monica on your list of destinations for an autumn weekend getaway. This stunning area of ​​Los Angeles boasts beautiful beaches, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot bioluminescent waves. You can cycle over to Venice Beach to soak up a different, more authentic vibe—reminiscent of the style of early 2000s brands like PacSun—and unwind with a stroll along the Venice Canals. Drive along the coast to explore Malibu’s picturesque shoreline, play tourist by venturing deeper into Los Angeles to visit the Hollywood Hills and Studio City, or leave the city entirely for a longer coastal road trip. Autumn brings some of the year's best waves to Southern California, just as winter begins to approach the northern part of the state.