The perfect locations for an autumn weekend

Let's admit it, we love the simple pleasures of autumn: the leaves, oversized knit sweaters, the relief of not having to walk around in 35-degree heat... in short, all the great classics. The season of the Pumpkin Spice Latte has finally arrived, bringing with it the magic of warm colors, crisp air, and that urge to escape that hits us after leaving summer behind. It's the perfect time to forget the routine for a few days and dive into a mini-vacation filled with warm soups, colorful foliage, and strolls where a nice coat is the best part of the look. Imagine sipping mulled wine in small squares surrounded by locals or photographing the streets of ancient villages, then ending the day in your B&B room with a cozy Halloween-themed movie. Can't you already picture yourself packing your bags? In this article, we have selected the best destinations for an autumn weekend that promises to be the perfect break from the stress of the previous workweek. Take notes and get ready to experience an adventure.

Utrecht, Netherlands

Utrecht is everything you expect from an autumn weekend. Small enough to visit thoroughly in three days without rushing to see everything. Stroll through its cozy streets, walk along the Oudegracht (the old canal), and browse antique shops—it's a concept. Utrecht is famous for showing its best in autumn colors: old trees lining the canals drop their crunchy, reddish leaves, and soft clouds give the city a dramatic look. You can wander in awe without being disturbed by traffic. The city center is lively but not overwhelming, with plenty of spots to eat well or grab a drink while taking a break.

Hidden Gem: Subcultures is a board game shop with a typical cozy interior. Behind the large pile of games at the back, there's a secret passage to the lower floor, where free game nights are often held!

How to get to Utrecht: Fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), 34.5 km from Utrecht. The train from Schiphol to Utrecht takes 35 minutes, and a round-trip ticket costs about €15.

Cheapest round-trip flight: From Milan Linate, €157 for the weekend of 08/11 - 10/11.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Autumn in Edinburgh is when the city shines brightest. The streets grow darker a little earlier, and the glow from the windows completes that dark academia aesthetic we see on Pinterest. It's the perfect season for this destination—some call it the golden hour of the year, and perhaps it's the one Edinburgh loves the most. The city's meadows aren't just beautiful for their spring blooms but also for autumn walks: rows of oranges and reds fill the paths leading into town. Grab a hot chocolate along the way or simply walk through the meadows and sit for a moment of absolute relaxation, perhaps with a book (or even just scrolling through TikTok).

Hidden Gem: The Pitt - Street Food Market is Edinburgh's pioneer of street food. Fill your belly with tasty food and enjoy live music, then hop over to the bars and shops in Leith, each with its unique charm.

How to get to Edinburgh: The Airlink 100 bus connects Edinburgh Airport with Waverley Bridge station in the very center in about 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic. The ticket price is £8 round-trip.

Cheapest round-trip flight: From Milan Malpensa, €106 for the weekend of 25/10 - 27/10.

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is one of the most photogenic and authentic medieval cities in Belgium, and autumn makes it the most romantic time to visit: the cool but still mild weather, the autumn colors blending with the gingerbread houses, drinking hot chocolate on a terrace, or strolling along the canals to the sound of horse-drawn carriages. What could be more pleasant for a relaxing weekend? The Bonifacio Bridge, also known as the Lovers' Bridge, is the perfect spot to take photos and admire the peaceful, beautiful landscape. There's even a legend that says the first person you meet after crossing it will be the one you marry. The beginning of a rom-com is just around the corner in this town.

Hidden Gem: A boat tour offers a different and enjoyable perspective to discover Bruges. It’s no surprise that Bruges is called the Venice of the North, and a boat excursion lets you see places you might otherwise miss. The boat ride lasts 30 minutes and costs about €8.

How to get to Bruges: There are direct trains between Brussels Airport and Bruges for €22, with departures every 15 minutes, making it a relatively cheap and easy trip.

Cheapest round-trip flight: From Bologna, €138 for the weekend of 01/11 - 03/11.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn has entered its cozy autumn season. It's time to wear your comfiest sweaters. The city's museums offer food for the soul and shelter from the rain. Tallinn also boasts fantastic dining experiences in its restaurants, always ready to delight you. Be sure to attend the events happening around the city: autumn hosts various festivals that offer something exciting for everyone. The autumn nights are long, and Tallinn's nightlife shines with everything from world-class nightclubs to intimate jazz bars. Trekking, biking, canoeing and kayaking. Collect mushrooms. Relax in a hot sauna. Look for vibrant autumn leaves in city parks or wild forests. There is so much to do and it's a very underrated and inexpensive destination.

Hidden Gem: Heldeke isn't just a bar; it's a popular spot for expats and locals alike. With its vaudeville style, Heldeke hosts a variety of events, including stand-up comedy, game nights, quizzes, burlesque shows, and even sauna nights. It's also one of the few places in Tallinn with open mic nights.

How to get to Tallinn: To reach the city center from the airport, take bus No. 2, which departs from the terminal's exit. The bus operates from 7 AM to midnight, with departures every 30 minutes.

Cheapest round-trip flight: From Milan Bergamo Orio Al Serio, €89 for the weekend of 25/10 - 28/10.

Zagreb, Croatia

Autumn in Zagreb brings a particular charm that enchants every visitor. The streets are filled with the smell of roasted chestnuts at every corner, and hot drinks in local cafés accompanied by fritule (mini doughnuts) dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate, caramel, or berry syrups. With fewer crowds, a rich cultural program, and enchanting nature, it's the ideal time to visit Zagreb, whether you love history, art, nature, or gastronomy. Magnificent buildings and cultural landmarks await, starting with the Dolac Market, where the scent of fresh local delicacies fills the air, before heading to the Upper Town, where the mystical Stone Gate and breathtaking views from Lotrščak Tower await.

Hidden Gem: The Museum Of Broken Hearts. What makes it unique is that the objects on display were donated, anonymously, by heartbroken couples from around the world. The story dates back to 1973, when a man in love, named Vlado, during military service, built a matchbox bearing his name, his beloved wife Jelka's name, and their wedding date. But there was no "happily ever after"…

How to get to Zagreb: The airport is connected to the city center and the bus station by a shuttle bus operated by Croatia Airlines, which departs every 30 minutes. The bus stop is located at the main exit of international arrivals. Single tickets cost 25 kunas, about €3.50.

Cheapest round-trip flight: From Milan Bergamo Orio Al Serio, €34 for the weekend of 22/11 - 24/11.