Europe Wellness & spas

September through November in Europe is a season of vivid colors, festive celebrations, and crisp, cozy adventures. As the summer crowds fade, cities and landscapes transform into serene, golden-hued wonders. Whether you’re dreaming of beer in Bavaria, experiencing Halloween where it all began in Ireland, or exploring ancient ruins in Greece without the scorching heat, fall in Europe is the perfect time to travel.

From world-famous festivals like Oktoberfest and the Amsterdam Dance Event to breathtaking nature escapes and ghostly city tours, here are the best places to visit in Europe in autumn.

While Vincent van Gogh’s paintings can be seen in the best museums around the world, the best places to see Van Gogh’s art are undoubtedly in Europe. Born in the Netherlands, he moved across the continent — from the fields of Arles to the streets of Paris — leaving an artistic legacy and a catalog of incredibly famous, valuable, and stunning paintings in his wake.

This guide covers the top museums to see the Dutch artist’s famous pieces, from famous ones like the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam to lesser-known gems like The Courtauld Gallery in London, for a unique look at the world and works of Vincent van Gogh.

Snow-capped peaks calling your name? Europe is packed with idyllic ski towns that are always among the top ski destinations in the world, whether you’re chasing pristine Alpine powder or après-ski activities in cozy mountain villages. And from the intense slopes of Chamonix in France to the family-friendly resorts of Bansko in Bulgaria, there’s a destination for every level of skier.

St. Anton draws thrill-seekers to Austria’s rugged terrain, while Zermatt in the Swiss Alps — in the shadow of the iconic Matterhorn — has the allure of year-round skiing. For beginners and experts, Europe’s skiing destinations mean beautiful scenery, mountain culture, and the perfect adventure. This roundup of the best ski towns in Europe should make choosing one a little easier.

February is one of the most underrated times to explore Europe. It’s a month when ski slopes are still covered in fresh powder and dream destinations like Athens and Budapest feel quieter. The colorful celebrations of Carnival start to emerge in cities across Europe, bringing life to chilly days, while places like Tromsø let you chase the magic of the northern lights in ample conditions. Whether you’re thinking top-rated European ski towns or a warm escape from the cold, this roundup of the best places to visit in Europe in February has it all.

Best places to visit in Europe in February at a glance:

Best for winter activities: Bansko, Bulgaria
Top choices for a quieter city escape: Budapest, Hungary
Most unique cultural experiences: Venice, Italy, and Nice, France
Best for warmer weather: Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain