When it comes to finding an adventure vacation, it can be all about the timing! In Europe, each season brings with it a whole new experience. The summer months can be extremely hot and busy while the winter months are great for skiing and other snow sports, Europe in Autumn however, is one of our favorite times to visit.

For the Americans reading, we’re talking about traveling to Europe in the Fall. The season where the leaves start changing, the days get a bit shorter and the air a bit crispier.

Autumn is a great option when looking for a adventure vacation in Europe. Here’s why:

Here are the top 10 reasons to travel to Europe in autumn

1.  The summer crowds are nowhere to be seen

Can you imagine just walking into the museum of your choice… with no lines!  How about getting into the famed restaurants you have read all about?  (August in Europe is known for closing places down so the employees can have some time off.) Traveling in the off-season means less crowds and more opportunities for experiencing the destination like a local.

2. The weather is great

The autumn temperatures, are much more conducive to active vacations.  With temperatures leaving the 90’s for the more comfortable 70’s and 80’s, fall is the perfect time to get outside! The cooler temperatures make an Italy bike tour the best time to go. Be prepared for a few rainy days though!

3.  Changing of the seasons

You always hear about it for the U.S. midwest and northeast and the same goes for many European destinations.  Imagine the hills of Tuscany golden, to match the light! As the leaves start changing their golden shades of auburn, orange, and brown, the streets and hillsides take on a whole new vibe. It’s beautiful and so picturesque!

4.  Your photos won’t look like everyone else’s

Fewer strangers in the backgrounds, the fall colors highlighting the city and landscapes, moodier lighting from earlier evenings, and more beautiful sunsets falling behind that amazing cathedral you just saw for the first time.

5.  Getting Time off

You can get time off work more easily because everyone else is fighting over the summer holidays. Or, you could always work remotely and take an extended stay.

6.  Wine lovers

Wine grape harvests fall in the autumn months: August for Italy, and September and October in France.  Amazing festivals often coincide with harvest time – meaning even more wine tasting!

7.  Restaurants change

Seasonal mushroom and truffle dishes are a real treat during fall. Who wants to eat schnitzel in the summer anyway? Traveling to Europe in autumn means that some days can be spent enjoying a fresh meal outside in the sun while other days are spent inside a cozy restaurant tucking into a hearty meal while the rain falls outside.

8. It’s more affordable

Off-season means you can typically find cheaper price tags on airfare and hotels.

9. Shorter days

Shorter days means there are more opportunities for moonlit strolls.  Imagine the romance!

10. Best season for visiting museums

As rainy season approaches, you won’t feel like you are missing a beautiful, sunny, day if you spend your time inside. Musee D’Orsay anyone?