Unique Autumn Destinations in Europe

Autumn is a wonderful time of year to explore new places and enjoy the natural changes of the season.  It's a great time to travel abroad and explore Europe, a time when there are far fewer travelers than in the summer.From early September to late October there are plenty of things to do across Europe and the UK in the perfect weather and atmosphere.  In addition, if you have been to Europe before, and want to see something outside of London or Paris, or you just like to do unique things on your vacations; here are some unique and great destinations that are popular on the continent, and more Americans should experience.

United Kingdom

A popular autumn activity that is popular for tens of thousands of people are walking tours thru the countryside and thru the estates of the entire United Kingdom.  It is a great way to experience all the regional uniqueness and be to view some stunning scenery.  Within the UK there are some great walking tours in the autumn months.  The North Devon and Exmoor Walking Festival , on the southwest coast of England, takes place in early October for four to 10 miles along the cliffs of north Devon.

The best thing about this picturesque walking tour is perhaps the fact it occurs at the same time as the Exmoor Food Festival which walkers can enjoy.  Exmoor provides pub stops, teas and farmhouse lunches.

Northumberland in the north also puts on a night walk in late October over the Cheviot Hills.  Daytime hikes likewise take place in Northumberland that explore the geological structures of the region.


Italy

Traveling abroad to Tuscany is a great idea in the autumn season when the wine harvests are taking place.  The Chianti Grape Festival offers 800 wines to taste and many locals dress up in costume to celebrate.  Or check out the hill towns in the south of Umbria.  Most of these towns were built on Roman foundations and rebuilt sometime in the Middle Ages.  Italy gives you a terrific blend of culture, food, and wine that you can enjoy in some of the best weather during the autumn months.


Greece

The Peloponnese in Greece gives you a historic and archaeological getaway in the autumn.  With ruins of Mycenae and the Olympia stadium with the original racetrack, you will find plenty of adventures while learning about the culture and history of the ancient Greeks.  The added benefit of missing the oppressive heat of
summer and enjoying nearly perfect weather during the autumn season is just an added benefit.


Germany

I know, millions of people celebrate Oktoberfest in Munich every year from September to mid-October.  If you like fun and the ultimate party, you ow it to yourself to go to the granddaddy of all festivals.  Visitors go to beer tents, small food stalls, and carnival rides, most of which keep going until midnight during the festivals.

Oktoberfest holds several parades starting with the Grand Entry of Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries, which moves for four miles through the center of the city.  The favourite meat of the festival is pork and you will find haxen pork knuckles, schweinsbraten roasted pork and sausages served with sauerkraut.  Add the charms of the city itself and and the magic of the Bavarian region itself, and you truly have a special vacation.