1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the best cities to savor autumn in Europe. As the trees along its canals turn red and gold, the city looks like a romantic painting. With shorter days, the warm glow from historic windows and the soft lamps along the canals add a nostalgic shimmer to the streets. October brings the Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), one of the world’s biggest electronic music festivals, energizing the city. In November, Museumnacht keeps more than fifty museums open late into the night, inviting visitors to experience art and entertainment together. Listening to music inside the Van Gogh Museum or finding yourself at a party among tropical plants in the glasshouses of the botanical garden are moments that make Amsterdam’s autumn unforgettable. And when the air turns crisp, sitting at a café by the water with a hot coffee in hand feels like the perfect way to embrace the season’s quiet charm.
To capture the city’s spirit: “The Fault in Our Stars” (2014) showcases Amsterdam’s canals, bridges, and cozy cafés as a romantic setting. Adapted from John Green’s novel, the film highlights the city’s emotional yet tranquil side.
Must-try flavors before you go: Amsterdam’s famous stroopwafel, a thin waffle sandwich filled with caramel syrup, is the perfect treat to warm you on a chilly day. Another iconic favorite, Dutch apple pie, often comes with whipped cream and is best enjoyed with a coffee at a café along the canal.
2. Prag, Czechia
In autumn, Prague adopts a calmer pace as summer crowds diminish. The city’s historic streets become easier to explore, and its fairy-tale charm feels more vivid. Medieval streets lined with golden leaves give Prague a romantic vibe, making it resemble a living postcard. Watching the rooftops burn in shades of red and orange from Prague Castle, or strolling peacefully without the crowds across Charles Bridge and through the Old Town Square, are among the season’s quiet pleasures. And as evenings grow crisp, the rich flavors of Czech cuisine make the perfect companion to autumn nights.
To capture the city’s spirit: Prague has long been a favorite among filmmakers. Mission: Impossible (1996), directed by Brian De Palma, was one of the first major productions to showcase the city on the international screen. Starring Tom Cruise, iconic locations like Liechtenstein Palace, Kampa Island, Wenceslas Square, and Charles Bridge served as striking backdrops. Prague’s role in cinema didn’t end in the 90s—the city recently appeared in Spider-Man: Far From Home, where its baroque and Eastern European architecture once again took center stage.
Must-try flavors before you go: One of Prague’s most iconic dishes, “Svíčková na smetaně”, features beef cooked in a cream-based vegetable sauce and served with bread dumplings. Its lightly sweet flavor and rich, creamy texture make it a fulfilling choice for crisp autumn evenings. For something sweet, look for “Trdelník”, a pastry grilled over open coals and coated in cinnamon sugar, an irresistible treat to enjoy as you wander the streets of Prague.
3. Paris, France
When Paris’s parks and gardens turn shades of yellow, orange, and red, the city reaches its most photogenic period. With the crowds of spring and the sweltering heat of summer gone, autumn brings moderate, refreshing air. The Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries, in particular, present stunning displays of color.
As summer holidays end and the pace slows down, it becomes easier to explore Paris more deeply and to feel like a local. Sitting under golden leaves in the Tuileries or the Champ de Mars with the Eiffel Tower in front of you, or strolling along the Seine on a cool evening, are some of the season’s finest pleasures. It’s the kind of Paris that brings to mind Audrey Hepburn’s line, “Paris is always a good idea,” and in autumn, perhaps the best idea of all.
To capture the city’s spirit: Midnight in Paris (2011) is one of the most memorable films that portray Paris in a magical light. Directed by Woody Allen, it immortalizes landmarks from the banks of the Seine to the streets of Montmartre, from the Musée Rodin to the Shakespeare and Company bookstore. The protagonist’s midnight journey back to 1920s Paris gives the city a nostalgic, melancholic glow. Many of the locations featured are still popular today: the gardens of Versailles and Shakespeare and Company remain favorite spots for those chasing Paris’s romantic soul.
Must-try flavors before you go: On crisp autumn evenings, nothing is more classic in Paris than a cup of rich hot chocolate. Pair it with a flaky croissant or warm up with a bowl of onion soup topped with melted cheese. To end the day, stroll along the Seine, letting the flavors remind you why Paris is one of the most beautiful places to experience autumn.
4. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, with its crisp autumn air, offers a unique café culture at its finest. As the days get shorter, both locals and visitors retreat into the warm comfort of the city’s historic coffeehouses. At iconic spots like Café Landtmann, you can do as Freud once did—settle into a corner with a newspaper and let the season’s calm settle in. The city’s museums also take on a special charm this time of year, with fewer crowds and a slower pace. The Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), with its impressive architecture and extensive collections, showcases Vienna’s cultural wealth. Just across the square, the Kunsthistorisches Museum displays some of Europe’s most significant works of art. In autumn, these two landmarks become perfect refuges for immersing yourself in history and culture while escaping the cold outside.
To capture the city’s spirit: Before Sunrise (1995) remains an unforgettable film that reveals Vienna’s youthful, romantic side. Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy wander through the city’s parks, cafes, and streets over the course of a night, carrying its atmosphere of love and discovery onto the screen. Nearly thirty years later, fans still seek out its filming locations, from the steps overlooking the Opera House to the record shop that hosted one of the movie’s most memorable scenes. It’s one of the most evocative films to watch before a visit to Vienna.
Must-try flavors before you go: Desserts take center stage as autumn highlights Vienna. The delicate layers of Apfelstrudel, filled with apples and cinnamon, taste even better when paired with warm vanilla sauce, warming you against the season’s chill. For a richer option, try Sachertorte, Vienna’s signature cake covered in glossy chocolate ganache. Enjoy either of the desserts with a foamy Wiener Melange, and you’ve captured the spirit of Vienna in autumn. If you visit late in the season, you’ll find the city’s Christmas markets in full swing, offering plenty of festive treats perfect for enjoying on the go.
5. Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, with its Gothic architecture, misty hills, and cobblestone streets, is one of the cities where autumn feels most at home. Its dramatic silhouette looks even more striking in the crisp air, while the trees around it turn shades of gold, creating views that could be mistaken for postcards. Walking through Princes Street Gardens or around Arthur’s Seat, the city’s iconic hill, only enhances this sense of enchantment. From above, the view stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the medieval streets below offers a breathtaking scene. After a walk, warming up with tea in one of the city’s cozy cafes is one of the simplest joys of the cool Edinburgh air. Organized toward the end of the season, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival, featuring folklore and myth, adds to the city’s cultural calendar. As it overlaps with Halloween, Edinburgh’s mystical ambiance becomes even more pronounced.
To capture the city’s spirit: “One Day” (2011) is one of the films that reflect Edinburgh’s romantic and melancholic side. The opening scenes at sunrise on Arthur’s Seat and the views around the University of Edinburgh showcase the city’s autumn charm on screen. The film is a fitting companion for those who want to feel the city’s dramatic yet intimate spirit.
Must-try flavors before you leave: Scotland’s iconic dish, haggis, served with turnips and mashed potatoes, is a hearty choice for autumn evenings. For something lighter, the creamy smoked fish soup is filling and comforting. When it comes to dessert, the buttery crunch of shortbread biscuits is simply essential.
6. Florence, Italy
The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence, bathes its art-filled streets in warm autumn sunlight, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for visitors. With the scorching heat of summer gone and winter’s cold not yet here, it’s the ideal time to explore the city’s historic fabric. The grape harvest takes place in September and October, while November features chestnut festivals and olive oil tastings, turning the region into a celebration of flavors. World-renowned museums like the Uffizi and the Accademia can be enjoyed without the crowds. From Piazzale Michelangelo, you can watch the sunset over the red-tiled roofs and the Arno River, experiencing Florence at its most beautiful in autumn.
To capture the city’s spirit: The film, “Lost in Florence” (2017), is a fitting choice. Directed by Evan Oppenheimer, this romantic drama follows a heartbroken American who arrives in Florence and gets involved in Calcio Fiorentino, a traditional local sport. The film vividly depicts Florence’s sporting culture, historic streets, and passionate atmosphere, making it perfect for anyone seeking a genuine connection with the city.
Must-try flavors before you leave: Autumn is when Tuscan cuisine truly shines. Pasta or risotto infused with white truffle is a must, while for something simple yet unforgettable, bruschetta drizzled with freshly pressed Tuscan olive oil never disappoints. The region also boasts some of Italy’s finest sandwiches. And for those with a sweet tooth, chestnut-based desserts are the perfect way to close the season on a note of autumn indulgence.
7. Budapest, Hungary
When autumn arrives, Budapest offers breathtaking views along both sides of the Danube. From the Fisherman’s Bastion on Buda Hill or Gellért Hill, the river flows below, its banks lined with trees glowing in warm autumn colors. Completing the panorama, the Parliament Building shines brightly against the golden and red backdrop. Often celebrated as one of Europe’s most beautiful and romantic cities, Budapest in autumn is the ideal time for long walks through its parks and historic streets. In October and November, before the cold fully sets in, you can enjoy long walks to explore the city on foot. Margaret Island and City Park, with their tranquil settings and autumn foliage, are favorites among both locals and visitors. Another must-do in Budapest during autumn is visiting its world-famous thermal baths. On a cool late-autumn day, soaking in the steaming outdoor pools of the historic Széchenyi Thermal Bath offers a unique experience to relax your body and mind.
To capture the city’s spirit: Budapest often finds its way onto the silver screen. Especially in spy thrillers and international productions, the city’s historic fabric is used to take on different identities. For instance, in “Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy” (2011) and other Hollywood films, Budapest has doubled for cities such as Rome or Moscow.
Must-try flavors before you leave: One of the most famous dishes of Hungarian cuisine, goulash soup, rich with paprika and meat, warms you up on cool autumn days. Among street foods, “lángos” takes the lead: a deep-fried dough similar to Turkish “pişi”, served with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese. For those with a sweet tooth, “kürtőskalács”, a cylinder-shaped pastry baked over coals and rolled in cinnamon sugar, is simply irresistible.
8. Rome, Italy
In autumn, Rome offers an experience that truly lives up to its title as the “eternal city,” with tourist crowds thinning and the scorching summer heat giving way to milder weather. With the extreme heat gone and the streets more relaxed, you can see history at every corner in Rome. Afternoons can be spent wandering in the shadow of the Colosseum, then lingering at Piazza Navona to watch open-air painters at work. The soft autumn light falls across the marble of the Trevi Fountain, where tossing in a coin and making a wish becomes irresistible. In Villa Borghese, the gardens burst with shades of red and orange; inside the park, you can enjoy the natural beauty and admire monumental artworks inside its museum. Among them are masterpieces by Caravaggio and Bernini. October kicks off Rome’s cultural season with new exhibitions, concerts, and plays happening throughout the city. After a day of events, nothing captures Rome’s autumn “Dolce Vita” more than relaxing at a café overlooking Piazza di Spagna or wandering through the narrow streets of Trastevere.
To capture the spirit of the city in autumn: One of the films that best conveys Rome’s magic and history is undoubtedly the classic “Roman Holiday” (1953), starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. The film, which earned Hepburn an Oscar, is a modern fairy tale set in postwar Rome. It immortalized the city’s most iconic landmarks with unforgettable scenes: Hepburn enjoying gelato on the Spanish Steps, the ride to the Trevi Fountain on a scooter with Peck, and the romantic evening views by Castel Sant’Angelo. Each of these moments etched Rome indelibly into cinematic memory. Speaking of Rome, two other works are worth mentioning. Federico Fellini’s legendary La Dolce Vita transforms the city into a dazzling stage of lights, piazzas, and nightlife, while the recent miniseries Ripley, starring Andrew Scott, casts Rome’s historic streets and architecture in an atmosphere of refined elegance.
Must-try flavors before you leave: Rome, the heart of Italy, is legendary when it comes to food. Autumn, being the harvest season in and around the city, brings unforgettable flavors to the table. Chief among them is the freshly pressed olive oil made from newly harvested olives. Whether drizzled over a salad or mixed into pasta, its seasonal aroma is unmistakable. Of course, the city’s iconic dishes should never be overlooked. “Cacio e Pepe”, made simply from Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and pasta water, is so deceptively minimal that after one plate, you find yourself marveling at how so few ingredients can produce such depth of flavor. “Carbonara”, too, is a Roman classic, prepared with eggs, cheese, and guanciale in perfect harmony. For a lighter option, whether after a main course or as a snack during the day, try “supplì” (crispy fried rice balls filled with mozzarella) or “carciofi alla giudia” (deep-fried artichokes), two of Rome’s most beloved specialties.
9. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, with its medieval architecture, is enchanting at any time of year, but in autumn it takes on a different kind of magic. The ivies covering historic buildings turn golden and crimson during September and October, dressing the city in a festival of colors. On mild afternoons, boat rides along the canals blend shimmering reflections on the water with the charm of stone bridges, creating a fairy-tale-like sense of peace. As you wander through Bruges’ streets, the scent of warm Belgian chocolate greets you at nearly every corner, and many chocolatiers offer special cocoa blends for the season. By November, seasonal markets and fairs begin to pop up, filling Markt Square with life. Exploring the stalls of local artisans and pausing with a hot drink to watch the square come alive enhances the joy of the season. And at sunset, the Belfry tower bathed in red light stands as one of autumn’s most unforgettable sights in Bruges.
To capture the city’s spirit: “In Bruges” (2008) immortalizes the city’s narrow streets, Gothic architecture, and storybook canals on the big screen. Starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, this dark comedy elevates Bruges to the role of a character in its own right. Scenes set around the medieval squares and the Belfry tower vividly showcase the city’s grandeur. Beyond this film, Bruges often appears in international productions as a backdrop of Gothic and romance.
Must-try flavors before you leave: Known as Belgium’s chocolate capital, Bruges is the ideal place to sample handmade pralines and truffles from local chocolatiers. On a crisp autumn day, few pleasures compare to sipping a rich, creamy hot chocolate. For a more substantial meal, try “stoofvlees,” served with crispy fries—one of Bruges’ signature dishes.
10. Madrid, Spain
Madrid is a European capital where, in autumn, its vibrant atmosphere meets the warmth of the season’s colors. By October, the scorching summer heat gives way to mild, pleasant days, and the city’s parks turn into a vivid display of colors. Especially El Retiro Park and Casa de Campo—Madrid’s green lungs—feel like open-air museums of autumn, with leaves turning from yellow to red to brown in every shade of the season. Autumn is also a time for culture and festivals. Toward the end of October, as the days get shorter and evenings grow cooler, Madrid hosts a festival of light, illuminating its historic buildings and squares with colorful installations. For culture enthusiasts, the city is irresistible: with world-famous museums like the Prado, Reina Sofía, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. As crowds thin in autumn, it’s easier to enjoy these museums without the rush. The season also makes for a perfect time to explore Madrid’s famous open-air market, El Rastro, or to leisurely stroll along shopping avenues like Gran Vía.
To capture the city’s spirit: “The Other Way Around” (2024) offers a wonderful glimpse of Madrid in the first days of autumn. Directed by Jonás Trueba, this romantic comedy tells the story of a couple who decide to throw a party to celebrate the end of their long relationship, set against the backdrop of Madrid itself. From rooftop conversations to train rides, the film gives an intimate view of everyday life in the city, while also evoking Madrid’s artistic and melancholic side in a tone that perfectly suits the season.
Must-try flavors before you leave: In Madrid, one of the beating hearts of Spanish cuisine, autumn is a paradise for food lovers. No trip would be complete without an evening tapas tour. On Cava Baja Street in the La Latina neighborhood or at the cozy tapas places of Malasaña, you’ll find countless small plates to sample. Patatas bravas and queso manchego are typically among the highlights. Tapas are deeply woven into Spanish culture, and hopping from one spot to another, eating like a local, is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the city. Madrid also has flavors all its own. Chief among them is the bocadillo de calamares, a beloved street food found in many shops around Plaza Mayor. And for dessert, nothing beats the comfort of hot chocolate with churros on a cool autumn evening. At historic chocolaterías like San Ginés, dipping crunchy churros into a cup of rich, velvety chocolate is an experience so satisfying it can make you forget the weariness of the day.
11. Istanbul, Türkiye
Istanbul adopts a completely different rhythm in autumn. As summer crowds fade away, the city becomes quieter, and the crisp, cooling air sets the perfect setting for walks and exploration. Mist rises behind ferries along the Bosphorus, sunsets glow beneath the bridges, and the golden leaves in the groves all come together to create the city’s unique autumn atmosphere. From Emirgan Grove to Belgrad Forest, from Gülhane Park to Yıldız Grove, Istanbul’s green spaces are covered with fallen leaves. In the Historic Peninsula, you can stroll through Topkapı Palace or Hagia Sophia at a more relaxed pace, while the view from Galata Tower presents one of the season’s most breathtaking scenes: crimson light spilling across the Golden Horn. The spirit of autumn is alive in many parts of the city. Walking through Balat’s colorful houses, which glow with the hues of the autumn sun, or sipping tea while overlooking the Bosphorus from a hilltop are among the most cherished rituals. Especially unforgettable are the breathtaking views from Otağtepe Grove in Beykoz or taking a relaxing break at Doğatepe above Rumelihisarı; moments that truly capture the essence of Istanbul in autumn.
To capture the city’s spirit: “The Bandit” (1996) is considered a turning point in Turkish cinema, a film that brought audiences back to theaters after many years. Directed by Yavuz Turgul, it tells the story of Baran, played by Şener Şen, who returns to Istanbul after a long absence. The film weaves together a tale of personal reckoning and friendship, while also portraying the city of the 1990s as a powerful backdrop. Istanbul is not just a setting here; it stands out as one of the forces shaping the characters’ destinies. Speaking of autumn and Istanbul, it would be unfair not to mention Teoman’s song “Autumn in Istanbul,” a unique piece that captures the city’s melancholic and poetic atmosphere.
If the rain eases toward evening,
Maiden’s Tower and the Princes’ Islands
Ah, if only you were here,
How beautiful it still is,
Autumn in Istanbul.
Must-try flavors before you leave: In autumn, Istanbul transforms not only in mood but also in scent. The aroma of roasted chestnuts drifts through Taksim; tea and simit await in Eminönü, while in Vefa it’s “boza,” a drink prepared by fermenting various grains with roasted chickpeas. On street corners, the smoky sweetness of grilled corn fills the air. As evenings grow cooler, a steaming cup of “sahlep”, a thick beverage made of sahlep powder, hot milk, sugar, and topped with cinnamon, becomes even more comforting. With the arrival of fishing season, the restaurants along the Bosphorus come alive. From anchovies to bluefish, tables are filled with the flavors of the sea. Wandering through the Historic Peninsula and taking a break for coffee a few hours later feels like a small reward, perfectly in tune with autumn’s calm.
Across Europe, autumn brings its own special experiences. Each city mentioned above promises visitors unforgettable memories, wrapped in its unique seasonal charm. Parks where golden leaves swirl in the wind, the scent of coffee and spices lingering in historic streets, festivals rich in culture and joy, echoes of memorable films, and dishes that capture the spirit of the season. Together, they reveal why autumn in Europe is truly unique. We hope you, too, will have the chance to enjoy the magic of the season in one of these cities.
