Nara (Japan)

Japan leads the ranking of vivid autumn colors. Its residents never miss the chance to revel in the beauty of nature. In spring, every self-respecting Japanese participates in “hanami” — the viewing of cherry blossoms. In autumn, the “koyo” ritual takes over — admiring the crimson and golden foliage. Thanks to the abundance of trees across the country, you can experience “koyo” virtually anywhere, though traditions still guide many to the most scenic regions. One such iconic place is Nara, the ancient capital of Japan, which in autumn is draped in every shade of yellow, red, and gold. The best vistas can be enjoyed in Nara Park, home to spotted deer and several ancient landmarks.

New Hampshire (US)

Throughout America, autumn's melancholy is synonymous with New England, and New Hampshire is the region’s standout. Here, national parks and endless forests of deciduous trees blanket rolling mountain slopes. Tourists and locals alike marvel at the White Mountain National Forest, where distant hilly vistas shimmer in every shade of red and gold. The forests of New Hampshire are best explored in early October, when maple leaves turn brilliant crimson. Visitors can also rent a bicycle and traverse the many national park routes. Another scenic destination is the picturesque Lake Winnipesaukee region.

Loire Valley (France)

Fiery autumn leaves can be admired not only in forests but also among the vineyards. The best way to enjoy this is a journey through the Loire Valley in September. Here, endless rows of grapevines drift over gentle hills to the horizon, aglow in all shades of gold, ochre, and burnt orange. September also ushers in the magical season of “vendanges” — the grape harvest — in which you can take part, adding a bright note to an already captivating trip.

Lombardy (Italy)

The Italian province of Lombardy boasts a favorable climate, despite its far northern location. Mild warmth lingers almost the entire autumn, lasting until the winter chills arrive. Travelers can gaze upon Lombardy’s lush, dense forests in their full autumn glory. Poplars, abundant in the region, display a stunning palette as their leaves turn nearly every shade of yellow. Admiring Lombardy’s woods does not require leaving the capital: Milan’s many parks also offer spectacular autumnal colors..

Huangshan (China)

Huangshan, or “Yellow Mountains,” in eastern China, is best appreciated in the fall. Huangshan National Park offers a riot of color—granite peaks cloaked in a mosaic of deciduous and evergreen trees create a fantastical atmosphere. Here, yellow, red, and green foliage intermingle. In September, the area swells with visitors from Shanghai and Beijing. The mountains are famous for their unique light phenomena—the so-called “Buddha’s Light” and “Sea of Clouds”—which appear truly mesmerizing.

Agawa Canyon (Canada)

Experts name Canada’s Agawa Canyon one of the planet’s finest autumn landscapes. The Agawa Canyon Tour Train departs from Sault Ste. Marie on the Canada–United States border, traversing 114 miles of unspoiled wilderness. In the early 20th century, Agawa Canyon inspired Tom Thomson and the “Group of Seven,” the celebrated Canadian landscape painters. The fall foliage period here, renowned for its brilliance, is brief—breathtaking colors can be seen from late September to early October.

Peneda-Gerês (Portugal)

Peneda-Gerês National Park in Portugal is record-breaking for its popularity. Seasoned travelers recommend coming in late September, before hilltops are cloaked in thick October fogs and chilly evenings set in. Visitors can wander for hours, admiring the crimson, yellow, and green-tinged leaves, or drop into a cozy local café. It is worth noting that there are plenty of such establishments in the vicinity of the national park.

The Urals (Russia)

Russia is home to many majestic mountains blanketed in dazzling autumn foliage, most prominently in the Urals, where dense forests, mountain rivers, waterfalls, and streams abound, beneath an incredible night sky. The Urals offer Russia’s most spectacular sunrises and sunsets—especially striking in autumn. The carnival of red and gold begins in early September, with the leaves changing by mid-month. By late October, the leaf fall season begins.

Schwarzwald (Germany)

Germany’s magnificent Schwarzwald (Black Forest) deserves special mention. In this fairytale woodland, dark green hills and coniferous forests are clad in crimson and golden hues come autumn. The Schwarzwald hosts many lakes, historic estates, and vineyards, with dense mists adding mystery to the rich autumnal leaves. In fall, the “Black Forest” is enveloped in a romantic haze: chimney smoke curls above rooftops, woodland clearings overflow with mushrooms and berries, and inviting pathways beckon. The beauty of these landscapes is truly breathtaking and brings a sense of tranquility.

Prague (Czech Republic)

Many travelers are drawn to Prague in autumn. Thick, nearly mystical fog blankets the city, shrouding the spires of Gothic castles. In autumn, Prague is relatively uncrowded, making it ideal for strolls through the city and its surroundings, wandering narrow streets and scenic embankments, and watching as the setting sun bathes ancient buildings in fantastical colors. In Prague’s parks, the foliage turns to shades of honey, crimson, and saffron. The ideal time to visit is the second half of September or early October, when the weather is still invitingly mild.