As autumn arrives, Europe is transformed into a wonderland of gold, orange, and crimson hues. Whether you're looking for serene lakes, majestic mountains, or charming villages, the continent offers an incredible variety of landscapes to explore in the fall.
Renting a car allows you to fully immerse yourself in the changing scenery and discover hidden gems along the way. Here are 10 of the best places in Europe to experience the breathtaking beauty of autumn foliage.
1. Lillafüred – Hungary
Nestled in the Bükk Mountains, Lillafüred is a hidden autumn gem in Hungary. The region’s dense forests come alive with vibrant shades of red and orange, providing the perfect backdrop for exploring the area's waterfalls, lakes, and charming Hámori Castle. The peaceful hiking trails and panoramic views make it a must-visit for nature lovers in the fall.
Rent a car in Budapest which is 2 hours drive away
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia
Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most magical places to visit in autumn. The park’s 16 cascading lakes and hundreds of waterfalls are framed by autumn foliage in dazzling shades of gold and red. The clear, tranquil waters reflect the vibrant surroundings, offering a perfect blend of nature and serenity as you wander along the wooden walkways.
Rent a car in Zagreb which is 2 hours drive away
3. Lauterbrunnen – Switzerland
The Lauterbrunnen Valley in Switzerland is a paradise in autumn, where towering cliffs and majestic waterfalls like Staubbach Falls are complemented by golden-hued forests. The village itself is incredibly picturesque, and the crisp, cool air is perfect for hiking through the surrounding meadows and exploring the nearby Swiss Alps, all bathed in the warm glow of autumn colors.
Rent a car in Bern which is only 1 hour drive away
4. Lake District – England
England’s Lake District is a classic destination for those seeking autumn beauty. The deep reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees reflect off the still lakes, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and peace. Exploring the region by car lets you visit quiet villages like Grasmere or Ambleside, while enjoying scenic drives through rolling hills and along the shores of the serene lakes.
Rent a car in Leeds which is 2 hours drive away
Rent a car in Liverpool which is 1.45 hour drive away
5. Llanrwst – Wales
The historic town of Llanrwst in Wales is one of the most charming spots for autumn foliage. Set on the banks of the River Conwy, the iconic Tu Hwnt i’r Bont tea house, draped in red ivy, creates an unforgettable autumn scene. The surrounding hills and woodlands add to the magic, making this destination a photographer's dream during the fall months.
Rent a car in Liverpool which is 1.30 hour drive away
Rent a car in Manchester which is 2 hours drive away
Rent a car in Birmingham which is 2.40 hours drive away
6. Black Forest – Germany
Germany’s Black Forest is a must-visit in autumn, as its vast expanse of dense trees turns into a sea of amber, gold, and deep crimson. The Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road) offers one of the best scenic drives, taking you through charming villages, vineyards, and mountain passes. Stop by Triberg to witness Germany’s highest waterfall, set against the stunning autumn backdrop.
Rent a car in Stuttgart which is 2 hours away
Rent a car in Zürich which is 2 hours away
7. Salzkammergut – Austria
Austria’s Salzkammergut region, with its stunning lakes and Alpine scenery, is a fantastic destination for autumn foliage. As you drive through the region, you’ll pass through postcard-perfect villages like Hallstatt, where the surrounding mountains are painted with vibrant fall colors. The clear lakes, reflecting the golden trees, create an almost magical setting that’s hard to beat.
Rent a car in Graz which is 2.30 hours away
Rent a car in Munich which is 2.30 hours away
8. National Park Tara – Serbia
Serbia’s National Park Tara is a hidden treasure in Europe, especially during autumn. The park’s dense forests turn into a kaleidoscope of colors, offering spectacular views from scenic lookouts like Banjska Stena. The rugged terrain, deep gorges, and the winding Drina River all add to the dramatic beauty of this off-the-beaten-path destination.
Rent a car in Belgrade which is 3.30 hours away
9. Sintra – Portugal
Sintra, located just outside Lisbon, is a fairytale-like destination that becomes even more magical in autumn. The lush forests surrounding its iconic palaces, like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira, are ablaze with gold and red leaves. A scenic drive through the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park offers sweeping views of both the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect autumn escape for lovers of history and nature alike.
Rent a car in Lisbon which is 40 minutes drive away
10. Amsterdam - Netherlands
Amsterdam for city lovers in fall offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural beauty, as the tree-lined canals glow with golden leaves. Enjoy the cozy café culture, explore world-class museums, and take scenic boat rides under picturesque bridges.
Rent a car in Amsterdam
Plan Your Autumn Road Trip
With so many incredible destinations to choose from, autumn is the perfect time to rent a car and explore Europe’s natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to serene lakes, towering mountains, or historic towns, these destinations offer the best of Europe’s autumn foliage. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the stunning colors of fall!