Some people think autumn is the most beautiful season because you can enjoy the maple leaves and the red foliage; others feel that watching the leaves fall one by one is rather desolate. So what about you? What is your autumn like? Plan your European or American maple-viewing trip and define your own autumn, composing your very own autumn fairy tale.
Currently, the most famous maple-viewing spots are in Canada and Japan, but did you know? Europe and America also have many dreamy wonderlands and hidden gems waiting for you. I've compiled them all here—fellow leaf-chasers, gather round!! Read this and book your flight to go!!
#Maple Color Forecast
Generally speaking, the peak period for vibrant maple colors is mostly concentrated from late October to early November.
(The following maple color forecast is based on data from recent years and should be taken as a reference; actual conditions depend on this year’s climate.)
Fairy-Tale Town – Český Krumlov, Czech Republic
Known as the most beautiful town in the Czech Republic during autumn, Český Krumlov feels as if time has stopped in the Middle Ages. Strolling through the town, you can wander on foot, admiring Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture; or walk along the river, strolling on the crimson maple leaf carpet tailored for autumn, gazing at the fairy-tale town reflected in the water. This autumn, head to Český Krumlov and make your own autumn fairy tale come true.
Prime Maple Viewing Period: Mid-October to Early November
A Postcard from Heaven – Hallstatt, Austria
Hallstatt, a historic lakeside town nestled in the Austrian mountains, has earned many accolades such as a heavenly paradise, a postcard from heaven, and the most beautiful lake—it's a must-visit dream town in everyone’s heart. When exploring European maple spots, you definitely shouldn’t miss it. If you visit Hallstatt, consider staying for a two-day-one-night trip to slowly savor the beauty of this wonderland. It’s said that its scenery changes with the shifting light. Hallstatt was once famous for its salt mines—if you’re interested in that, you can add that to your itinerary too~
Prime Maple Viewing Period: Mid-October to Early November
A Real-Life Fairy-Tale World – Moscow, Russia
Thanks to Eastern Orthodoxy, these fairy-tale-like buildings are everywhere in Russia. With the addition of maple leaves, the entire city feels like a real-life fairy-tale world brought to life—so how can you miss it when viewing maple leaves? Come to Moscow to see the maple leaves and let the city offer you an incredible visual feast.
Since Russia is located at a high latitude, the maple leaves turn red earlier. The golden period is around the end of September, and leaves fall faster than in other countries, quickly leading into winter. Travelers wanting to see the maple leaves in Moscow should definitely seize the opportunity!
Prime Maple Viewing Period: Mid-September to Early October
UNESCO World Heritage Site – Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park (also known as the Plitvice Lakes), the oldest national park in Southeast Europe and the largest in Croatia. Due to limestone deposits and water inflow, it features 16 large and small lakes, hence the name “Plitvice Lakes.” Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, it boasts diverse landscapes including grand waterfalls, smaller cascades, lakes, forest trails, and woods, continuing to attract travelers from all over the world. In autumn, when the park is painted in a mix of red, yellow, and green, nature lovers absolutely must not miss it.
Prime Maple Viewing Period: Early to Mid-October
*Travel Tip: It’s said that spot No. 7 on the guide map offers the classic postcard view of the Plitvice Lakes!
Heavenly Wonderland – Königssee, Germany
Nestled and protected by the Alps, Germany’s hidden gem Königssee is famed for its emerald-green, crystal-clear waters due to years of natural preservation and local care. The water is so pristine that it’s said to be drinkable. So when visiting Königssee, aside from enjoying the red foliage, don’t forget to try the trout raised in such high-quality waters!
Prime Maple Viewing Period: Mid-October to Early November
Travel Tip: The most famous red building in Königssee is the St. Bartholomew’s Chapel, a Catholic pilgrimage church.
Peter Rabbit Town – Windermere, England
Windermere is the largest lake in England’s Lake District. The hills, painted red by autumn foliage, are reflected in the lake, creating a picturesque scene. This is also the birthplace of Peter Rabbit — the author, Beatrix Potter, fell in love with the pastoral charm of Windermere. During the Industrial Revolution, her life revolved around Peter Rabbit and her mission to protect the utopia she envisioned. Thanks to her efforts, the town of Windermere remains largely intact as it was in the early 19th century, resembling a fairy-tale world. There’s even a Peter Rabbit Museum that brings the story’s scenes and characters to life. Fans of Peter Rabbit, come say hello to him when you visit this place.
Peak foliage season: Mid-October to end of November
Recommended attractions: Mont-Saint-Michel, Château de Chillon, Neuschwanstein Castle
The epitome of romance: Paris, France
The Seine River, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe... these are the first things that usually come to mind when we think of Paris. But have you ever thought of maple leaves? Paris, a blend of romance, fashion, modernity, and tradition, is brushed with reds and golds by the artist named Autumn, transforming into the most stylish icon of the season, ready to welcome you with open arms.
Peak foliage season: Mid-October to early November
Enchanted forest: Pitlochry, Scotland
Nestled quietly in the Scottish valley, the town of Pitlochry is free from the hustle and bustle of the world, accompanied only by forests, lakes, and streams. In autumn, the woods don new coats of red, gold, and green in varying shades, offering a rich tapestry of fall colors. Around October each year, the Enchanted Forest also hosts a magical light show.
Peak foliage season: Late September to end of October
*Travel tip: This year’s Enchanted Forest light show runs from October 4 to November 4
USA
Adirondack Park
Established to protect river and forestry resources, this preserve spans over 25,000 square kilometers, making it the largest state park in the U.S. The park has many scenic trails where you can enjoy the beauty of autumn, including the famous Olympic Trail, which connects multiple lakes. If you prefer not to walk too much, you can also take the Adirondack Scenic Railroad to view the whole area.
Peak foliage season: Late September to early November
Vermont
Tired of crowded streets and traffic? Vermont is mostly made up of small towns, mainly focused on livestock farming. The towns generally maintain the look of early American rural architecture — some are by lakes, others by mountains, and some have small rivers flowing nearby. Let Vermont transport you into the world of classic Western cowboy movies.
Peak foliage season: Late September to mid-October
After seeing these hidden gems across Europe and America, are you itching to go? Due to global warming, the foliage season is getting shorter, and so is autumn. Don’t hesitate any longer — book your flights and hotels, grab your suitcase, and set off. Seize the moment, and don’t let it slip away.
ByKatrina.C | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team
More top autumn foliage destinations:
[2018 Japan Foliage] Popular spots that made the list for two years in a row are all here — don’t say you haven’t been there (Part 1)
[2018 Japan Foliage] Popular spots that made the list for two years in a row are all here — don’t say you haven’t been there (Part 2)
[Canada Foliage] Relive the Maple Leaf Journey from “Goblin” with HowToTrip