The Best International Destinations for Fall Foliage

The autumn months are a great time to travel as you can not only save big on flights, accommodations, tours and more while enjoying fewer crowds but also take in gorgeous fall scenery.

When it comes to fall colors, most people think of New England, the Rocky Mountains and Appalachia. However, beautiful foliage isn't exclusive to the U.S. In fact, there is a plethora of amazing international locales bursting with color this season that travelers won't want to miss.

Here are some of the very best places to encounter colorful fall foliage abroad.

The Austrian Alps encompass a wide range of spectacular autumn destinations popping with color this season. Charming villages like Hallstatt, Leogang and Ehrwald stand out. The latter is even home to a new luxury mountain retreat offering a one-of-a-kind Alpine experience in eriro, which welcomes guests via cable car before wowing them with unparalleled views of colorful meadows and forests.

The Austrian Alps also offer Forsthofgut Nature Hotel, a unique retreat catering to nature lovers who can relax while taking in the foliage or enjoying the world-class waldSPA.

Japan's Nasu Highlands are another can't-miss destination for fall foliage seekers. This region—just a 70-minute train ride from Tokyo—boasts not only vibrant colors come autumn but famous natural hot springs, scenic hiking trails and breathtaking mountainous landscapes.

Japanese maple and beech trees are among the diverse flora that allow the highlands to pop with color. For a one-of-a-kind stay, consider Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Nasu, a resort that makes the most of its surroundings, including natural hot springs from Mount Nasu’s active volcano.

Italy's Lake Garda is a serene destination to soak in the gorgeous colors of fall. Some of the best views can be found at Cape of Senses, an adults-only retreat nestled 600 feet above the lake.

For those who can't get enough of the glorious hues, the resort offers e-bike tours allowing them to traverse the region's remarkable landscapes during one of the most peaceful times of the year.

Historic Budapest is an easy choice for international travelers in search of sensational fall colors this season. The city offers colorful areas in abundance, including places like Grand Boulevard and Andrássy Avenue as well as Margaret Island, which boasts an ideal location in the middle of the Danube River.

What's more, autumn visitors can look forward to stays at two recently opened boutique hotels in Kimpton BEM Budapest and Verno House Budapest, Vignette Collection, each offering guests easy access to Margaret Island and other scenic sites throughout the city.

In Asia, it's not only Japan that's drawing fall foliage seekers. Seoul, South Korea is yet another awesome autumn getaway, with fall foliage predicted to peak around late October and early November.

Sites such as Bukhansan National Park, Seoul Forest and the Chandeokgung Palace are among the best places to combine the city's rich culture with its unbeatable colors. 

The Loire Valley is a splendid region of France south of Paris where visitors can explore the remarkable Chateaux of the Loire Valley featuring hundreds of castles and centuries-old residences.

Fall visitors will be rewarded with vibrant colors in addition to fewer crowds. The display at Villandry is not to be missed as guests can view sunflowers, pumpkins, decorative cabbage and grape vines and they change color to match the season.

The Slovenian capital is one of the world's most eco-friendly cities and you could argue it's at its best this time of year when October brings jaw-dropping foliage in addition to low shoulder season rates on accommodations.

Plus, the city hosts a restaurant week this time of year when lucky visitors can save on dining and enjoy a slew of specials throughout foodie-friendly Ljubljana.

Visitors to Prague, Czech Republic can enjoy delightful fall foliage from late September to early December in many places. Petrin Hill is a great place to spend some time outdoors this time of year while taking in panoramic views of the city.

The Prague Islands dotted along the Vltava River are equally as inviting in a destination teeming with parks, forests and gardens.

A less-explored region of Japan, the Kii Peninsula often bursts with color from late October to early December. The fall scenery complements the area's many historic temples and shrines, some designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The Kii Peninsula can be easily accessed from Kyoto and Osaka and the Kumano Club is the perfect basecamp for exploring the spiritual Kumano Kodo trail. The World Heritage Kumano Kodo tour allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the unrivaled beauty and ambiance of the historic pilgrimage route.