5 Must Visit Cities in Europe for Autumn

  Though we know those beautiful, chilly months before frost as the “off season” in Europe, there truly is no time like the present to explore the historical, natural, and cultural hubs of this idyllic continent. Our suggestion? Bundle up a bit, and head East, trading Paris for Prague and the many other delights Eastern Europe has to offer. The colors will give New England a run for its money, and even the seasoned European traveler will find stunning surprises on either side of the Danube.

1) Prague, Czech Republic

While technically located in central Europe, the cobble streets and red roofs of the Czech capital dazzle in the auburn tones of Autumn. With the crowds of July and August largely dissipated, bundle up and wander the city of a hundred spires at your leisure. When it comes to decadence, nothing beats The Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa. Located on a quiet street by the river, the 16th-century palace serves up an intelligent mix of Habsburg baroque interiors sprinkled with modern spaces. The restaurant offers a dose of tasteful kitsch along with a delicious menu, and the garden across the way lures the unassuming traveler with the promise of cocktails, Turkish divans, and serene seclusion. The Hotel Josef offers a simpler, though incredibly chic experience secreted away from crowds. While there is no restaurant proper, the glass-frontage of the breakfast-only dining room is a stunning way to start the day. If sleek simplicity isn’t for you, still stop by to take in the 10,000 sq. ft. courtyard, the largest in the city’s Old Town, and a sight to behold.

For a breath-taking panorama, head to the top of Petrin Hill for a 360 view of the cities vibrant landscape. You can walk to the top and work up a sweat, or use your tram card to hop on the funicular for an amusing and relaxing trip. Feeling adventurous (and ready for a workout)? Sign up for a 45-km bike tour to Karlstejn Castle. You’ll feel like a champion by the end of your ride, not to mention experience the beautiful Czech countryside first hand. The Castle at the end is an added bonus. If you’re lucky, you can catch the two-day wine festival hosted at the Castle during harvest season, where you can sample local vintages while you explore the grounds.

 
2) Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is known The City of Baths, with the first thermal baths built by the Romans continued by the Turkish occupiers in the 16th century, and culminating with the 19th-20th century trends towards aqua therapies. Luckily you can soak year round in City Park’s Széchyeni Baths. The stunning Neo-Baroque palace touts 18 pools, 10 saunas, and additional spa and facial treatments. Relax while taking in the unique romance and history of this iconic, central attraction. Afterwards, stop by the hotspot Anonymous Bar & More in Vajdahunyad Castle for libations and dishes bursting with Magyar flavor served on a lakeside terrace. Climb either of the two towers in the castle after your meal for an epic view of the city.

3) Bratislava, Slovakia

An underrated city in all respects, Bratislava presents its fair share of beautiful sunsets set against a backdrop of picturesque architecture, fall foliage, and delicious meals. Then again, there’s plenty more Slavic charm to go around. Do your best to make it in time for the annual Goose Festival, located just 30 minutes outside of the city. The festival celebrates the traditional work of goose farmers, passed down through generations and culminating in a delicious meal of roast goose and Slovakian potato pancakes. Simply delicious.

Take in the city by day, and choose from an impressive host of cultural events at night. The Slovak Philharmonic launches its season each Fall and promises an unforgettable night of music, while The Slovak National Theatre offers countless plays, ballets, and operas throughout the year. If you can, plan your trip around Biela Noc, the contemporary light art festival that happens each year in October, and Bratislava Jazz Days, a jazz festival beyond comparison.

4) Warsaw, Poland

If the awe-inspiring colors of Lazienki Park weren’t enough reason to visit Warsaw in Autumn, the city’s jam-packed social and cultural calendar certainly is. Plan your trip around any number of compelling events, or see where the day leads you. Warsaw is full of superior sights and surprises.

Spend your time exploring major landmarks by day, the Royal Castle, the Museum of King Jan III’s Palace at Wilanów, and all the buildings in the Royal Łazienki Museum are not to be missed. Head over to Hala Mirowska to sample tastes of the Polish Countryside straight from farmer’s food stands. The historic marketplace was built in the 19th-century, destroyed during WWII, and rebuilt in the 50s. Get there early to sample delectable Polish pastries like creamy Wuzetka (Warsaw cake), Szarlotka (Polish apple pie) or fluffy Pączek (perhaps the best pastry in the world). At night,  if you fancy yourself a film buff, check out events hosted by Polish Films for Foreigners to get a cinematic take on Polish culture. Then head to “Pawilony”, a little area in Nowy Świat street with 25 tiny pubs where you can interact with locals and expats while sampling the area’s classic libations, beer and vodka.

5) Krakow, Poland

The creative center of Poland, Krakow wears its history proudly while staying true to its role as a modern hub for Polish culture. A compact city, easily navigated by foot, get set to explore every enchanting, autumnal corner of this magical city.

The Hotel Wentzl is the only hotel overlooking Krakow’s central square, and while a typical tourist destination, the central location recommends itself most highly in the off-season. The Hotel itself is grand, constructed in the 16th century, and maintains the heights of luxury to this day. If you simply can’t resist the charms of Old Town, The Hotel Pod Roza offers the ideal combination of Renaissance façade with modern sensibility. There are two fine dining establishments in house, but you are steps away from countless restaurants if you’re craving a more authentic Krakow experience.

On November 1st, locals celebrate All Souls Day, and the historic cemeteries of the city gradually become illuminated by countless candlelights. Whether there for the holiday or not, take time to explore Rakowiki cemetery with its sprawling verdure transforming into the burning colors of falls above the famous graves. Having taken in some history, head over to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow to gain an appreciation of the groundbreaking work Polish artists contribute.