1. Space to breathe
Many destinations come into their own once summer’s tourists have departed. Savour the near-empty beaches of northern Catalonia and Tuscany’s quieter towns.

2. Perfect climate
Across southern Spain, Italy, and Portugal you can expect warm, sunkissed days long into October – ideal for exploring on foot. 

3. New discoveries
As the intense heat of the Mediterranean summer subsides, venture further from the beaten track to uncover worlds of hidden beauty.

4. More to savour
Autumn ingredients add extra flavour to the delicious regional dishes of our destinations. Look out for wild mushrooms and truffles in Tuscany, and chestnuts in Spain’s Aracena Sierra

5. Migration sensation
Cast your eyes upwards – from Alicante’s rugged mountains or coastal Menorca – to catch migrating birds on their journey south.

6. Wine tasting
September heralds the start of the grape harvest, bringing a wonderful bustle to Europe’s vineyards as well as many opportunities for tastings.

7. Season of celebrations
Autumn is a season for celebration across the continent, with traditional food, dance, and music festivals a great way to immerse yourself in regional culture.

8. Glorious colours
When better to walk than as Europe’s leaves are turning from green to gold, copper, and fiery red – creating a superb backdrop to your routes.

9. Stunning sunsets
When nights begin to draw in across the UK, head south for later sunsets. The further south you travel, the more daylight hours you gain.

10. Easy travel
With plenty of flights still available in autumn, it’s a great time to visit destinations that sell out over summer. If you don’t want to travel far, the UK is equally enchanting this time of the year