Autumn is a season of transformation. The crisp air, lively foliage and promise of cosy evenings by the fireplace make it the ideal time for an escape. As the summer crowd disperses before the cold of winter arrives, autumn offers a unique blend of experiences.
This is the season when the colours of nature shine brightest, with landscapes painted in shades of gold, red and orange. It’s also a time when local cuisine thrives, with harvests bringing the best of the season to the table. Whether you want to savour fine wines, enjoy tranquil beaches, or explore cultural wonders, autumn has something for everyone. Here are six Volotea destinations that capture the essence of this enchanting time of year.
Naples, Italy: living history and authentic flavors
Naples, located in southern Italy, is a vibrant city where history, culture, and gastronomy intertwine at every corner. With views of the imposing Vesuvius and as a gateway to the Amalfi Coast, it is a fascinating destination to discover at any time of year. Neapolitan autumn, with mild temperatures and a calmer atmosphere than in summer, is the perfect moment to explore its cultural and culinary richness.
Why Naples is perfect in autumn:
- Exploring Pompeii and Herculaneum: the ancient Roman cities, buried by Vesuvius’ eruption, can be enjoyed without the intense heat or summer crowds.
- Pleasant climate: autumn offers mild days, ideal for strolling through Naples’ historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Neapolitan gastronomy: taste authentic pizza in its city of origin, along with traditional dishes such as sfogliatella or pasta alla genovese.
- Excursions to the Amalfi Coast: with fewer tourists, the towns of Amalfi, Positano, or Ravello are more accessible and authentic.
- National Archaeological Museum: admire one of the world’s most important collections of Greco-Roman art, without the long high-season queues.
- San Gregorio Armeno: in autumn, nativity-scene and sacred art enthusiasts can stroll along this famous street, discover its artisan workshops, and get ahead with Christmas shopping before it fills with thousands of visitors in December.
Bordeaux, France: a wine lover’s and culinary paradise
Bordeaux, located in the southwest of France, is synonymous with world-class wines and gourmet cuisine. Autumn in Bordeaux is particularly special because the vineyards come alive with the harvest season, offering an immersive experience in the art of winemaking.
Why Bordeaux is perfect for autumn:
- Vineyard tours and wine tastings: explore the renowned vineyards of Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Pessac-Léognan, where you can watch the harvest and take part in wine tastings.
- Gastronomic delights: autumn is truffle season in Bordeaux. Savour the dishes based on this culinary treasure, paired with local wines.
- Autumn foliage: the vineyards themselves are a sight to behold, with rows of vines turning red and gold.
- La Cité du Vin: visit this world-renowned wine museum to learn about the history and culture of wine in an interactive setting.
- River cruises: cruise along the River Garonne to admire Bordeaux’s beautiful architecture and autumn landscapes.
Marrakech, Morocco: a Mix of Culture, Shopping and Adventure
Marrakech in autumn is a feast for the senses. Cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to explore this vibrant city and nearby desert landscapes.
Why Marrakech is perfect for autumn:
- Jemaa el-Fna Square: immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this iconic square, where you can shop for spices, fabrics and handicrafts.
- Majorelle Garden: stroll through this beautiful garden, where the contrast of autumn light with the vibrant blue of the buildings is every photographer’s dream.
- Desert hikes: take a trip to the nearby Sahara Desert to take a camel ride and experience the serenity of the dunes under the starry sky.
- Palace tours: explore the stunning Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace, both of which offer a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history.
- Hammam Experience: relax in a traditional Moroccan hammam and indulge in regenerating spa treatments.
Tenerife: Sun, Sand and Scenic Hikes
Tenerife, the largest of the Spanish Canary Islands, offers a unique autumn getaway where you can enjoy days on the beach and explore the natural beauties of the island.
Why Tenerife is perfect for autumn:
- The beaches: with mild temperatures and fewer crowds, autumn is perfect for sunbathing on the beautiful beaches of Tenerife such as Playa de las Américas and Playa del Duque.
- Teide National Park: Hike this UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, and admire the volcanic landscape in the crisp, fresh air.
- Whale watching: in autumn the waters around Tenerife teem with marine life, an excellent time for whale and dolphin-watching excursions.
- Anaga Rural Park: explore the lush forests and dramatic cliffs of this park, where autumn colours create breathtaking scenery.
- Local Festivals: participate in the island’s autumn festivals, which celebrate everything from wine to music and traditional dances.
Lille: a Cultural Paradise with a Festive Atmosphere
Lille, located in the north of France, is a fascinating city that combines a rich history with a lively cultural scene. Autumn is the ideal time to visit, as the city’s museums come alive and the Christmas market begins to take shape.
Why Lille is perfect for autumn:
- Museum visits: visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, one of France’s largest museums, to admire an impressive collection of European art.
- La Piscine Museum: located in a former swimming pool, this unique museum in nearby Roubaix presents modern and contemporary art in a beautiful Art Deco setting.
- Exploring the old town: stroll through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lille, where historic buildings are shrouded in autumn colours.
- Christmas Market: starting in late November, Lille’s Christmas market transforms the city into a winter wonderland, complete with festive lights, crafts, and seasonal produce.
- Gastronomy: savour regional dishes such as carbonnade flamande (beef stew) and sample Lille’s famous waffles, perfect for warming up on a cool autumn day.
Florence: a Journey Through the History and Beauty of Nature
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is a city that enchants all year round. However, autumn exerts a particular charm, especially for those who wish to combine cultural exploration with the beauty of nature.
Why Florence is perfect for autumn:
- Casentino Forests National Park: just outside Florence, this national park is one of the best places in Italy to see autumn foliage, with vibrant colours that paint the wooded hills.
- Uffizi Gallery: autumn means fewer tourists, which allows you to calmly admire the masterpieces of Michelangelo, Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci.
- Florentine cuisine: savour autumn specialities such as ribollita (Tuscan vegetable soup) and enjoy the season’s harvest with freshly squeezed olive oil.
- Piazzale Michelangelo: admire the panoramic view of Florence against the backdrop of autumn nuances from this iconic vantage point.
- Tuscan Wine Tour: visit the nearby vineyards in the Chianti region to taste some of the best Italian wines during the harvest season.
Autumn is a lovely time to travel, offering a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty and culinary delights. Whether sipping wine in Bordeaux, wandering the souks of Marrakech, basking in the sun on the beaches of Tenerife, exploring the museums of Lille or admiring the autumn foliage in Florence, each destination offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Pack your bags and embrace the magic of autumn in one of these amazing locations!
