Why autumn is the perfect time to travel
3 minute read
Last updated October 2026
Why autumn is the perfect time to travel
3 minute read
Last updated October 2026
Why autumn is the perfect time to travel
3 minute read
Last updated October 2026
After the hottest summer on record in the UK1, autumn is finally upon us. When we wave goodbye to the warmer months and say hello to darker nights, cosy candles and crisp autumn air.
This year, a lot of us will be looking forward to the change in seasons. Not just to put the blistering heat behind us, but to get excited about what’s to come. The ‘ber’ months are often full of celebrations – Halloween, Bonfire Night, Diwali… and not forgetting the lead up to the festive season that’s just around the corner.
But another thing autumn brings is what’s known in the travel world as ‘shoulder season’ – the gap between summer and winter when demand falls.
It might not surprise you to hear that autumn is one of the best times of year to pack a bag and head off on a trip. In their latest Autumn Travel Outlook, Expedia highlighted a few sunny spots where prices fall after peak season. They found rates were up to 30% lower in places like Albufeira and Faro in the Algarve and Mykonos and Kos in the Greek Islands.2
Let’s take a look at why an autumn getaway could be your perfect sunny day option… with just a little less sun.
1. Travel is easier
The ‘how to get there’ chat can be a big part of planning a trip away. If you’re not a fan of travel day, it can make or break a holiday. But the good news is, travelling in autumn can lead to a more relaxed and stress-free experience because:
- Travel costs are down… which means you get more for your money.
- Fewer people travelling… which means you’re more likely to be able to get away on a specific date which suits you best. Oh, and airports and other travel hubs are less busy, too!
According to Expedia, data shows November offers some of the least expensive and quietest days to travel and stay, making it the best-value month for an autumn getaway.2
2. Less crowds, more peaceful
If you're after calm, you'll also find tourist spots and hotels attract fewer guests at this time of year. This is likely because the kids are back at school, so there's often less families around. Popular places to visit that are usually full during the summer become blisfully quiet. That means:
- Smaller crowds while exploring cities
- No long queues at museums
- It's easier to book tables at the must-visit places to eat.
No matter your dream destination. Wandering through the cobbled streets of a European city. Trekking through a national park. Or maybe you just want to chill out on a beach in the Med? Sometimes a bit of time out and peace is just what you need.
If it’s the calm you crave, one of the greatest joys of travelling at this time of year is the chance to escape the crowds. You’ll often find tourist spots and hotels attract fewer guests because kids are back at school. That means:
- Smaller crowds while exploring cities
- Shorter or no queues at museums
- It’s easier to get a table at the must-visit places to eat.
And it seems many of us are using this time of year to explore somewhere new. According to Expedia, lots of us are opting for quieter destinations away from the usual crowds that offer a slower, more relaxed pace. This includes:
- Luxembourg – marvel at charming old towns, leafy parks and cosy cafes
- Sarandë, Albania – think crystal-clear waters
- Budva, Montenegro – take in the beautiful coastline and historic streets
- Ljubljana, Slovenia – enjoy city walks and colourful, autumn leaves.2
3. Great value for money
Sometimes getting a deal isn’t so important. But it’s no surprise that prices go up and down depending on the time of year.
While travelling in the UK seems to be on the rise in the months before Christmas2, stepping on a plane could save you some money. You could find a holiday that was on the pricier side in summer for much less in autumn. Same experience, but you can save a little extra for your future sunny days!
4. Breathtaking nature and better weather
Autumn is a visual feast. Trees turn brilliant shades of amber, crimson and gold. They change the landscape, making those country walks even more amazing than if the sun was shining. Gone is the intense summer heat, replaced by mild days and cool evenings. Perfect for sightseeing without breaking a sweat!
So, whether you want to visit the lakes in the Scottish Highlands or experience The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, autumn is ready to captivate you.
5. Seasonal food and local festivals
Across the world, autumn often brings with it the harvest. It means this can be an ideal time to enjoy local food and treats. Savour fresh fruits and vegetables, soul warming soups, sweet pastries and desserts that melt in the mouth.
Many regions host autumn festivals that don’t just celebrate food, but music and culture too. These events are often smaller and more intimate than what you may find in the summer months, offering a real taste of local life.
Saint Augustine said, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page." There are still so many pages to turn, places to discover and memories to make. So, if travel is part of your next chapter, why not start saving for it today? Our range of savings accounts could help you put a little aside for the journey ahead.
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