Holiday Ideas for Autumn










With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, autumn is the perfect time for sightseeing as cities, sights and landscapes are enhanced by the magical effect of low sunlight. This is the season of ripening, when you can savour local produce such as mushrooms, squash and harvests of the vine. From New England's glorious fall colours to the burnished hues of Europe's riverbank forests, the glow of golden light on Japan's shimmering temples to the clarity of Scandinavia's fjords and mountains - autumn is an enchanting season, when there's time to absorb the quiet beauty of each destination and savour experiences more slowly.
Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.
Cooler days make touring comfortable and, with the crowds dispersed, you can explore at a more relaxed pace. Autumn adds a soft glow to Italy's coastal resorts such as Portofino, to the cities of Rome, Venice and Florence, and casts a clear light on beautiful lakes - from Garda and Como to less-visited Maggiore and Orta.
In fall, Scandinavia's vast forests turn from green to vibrant yellow, orange and red. Experience fantastic fjords and stylish cities, when the air is crisp and temperatures are mild. This is the Nordic season of 'hygge', when candlelit cafés offer a cosy retreat, and - if you're lucky - you may spot the Northern Lights on a clear night.
As iconic as cherry blossom season, Japan's autumn (known as 'Koyo') features an intense palette of red, oranges, and golds. Witness the rich reds of maple and vivid yellows of ginkgo leaves in Japan's idyllic tea gardens when, during autumn, humidity is lower than in summer and skies are usually clear and sunny.
Fall in New England offers constantly changing hues, from the radiant reds and chestnuts of its mountain scenery to the golden glow of its scenic East Coast. Combine autumn's colours with history and culture in Boston, and be awestruck in the White Mountains - one of the region's most stunning locations.





Follow in the footsteps of maharajas on our bestselling Indian tour, uncovering the gems of India's Golden Triangle and the former colonial retreat of Shimla. Embrace the many wonders of this mystical country on this unrivalled overland journey. Enjoy the bustle of Delhi's bazaars on a rickshaw ride, visit Shimla to uncover the former...





Experience epic mountain landscapes and shimmering alpine lakes on this fantastic holiday to Switzerland. Discover the Swiss Alps on the world-acclaimed Bernina Express and Glacier Express from our popular bases in Chur and Brig, traditional towns surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a private aperitif on the terrace of the 10th-century Spiez...





Embark on a captivating holiday, uncovering the highlights of Lake Garda and northern Italy, travelling by First Class rail and staying in the fortress town of Sirmione, where your welcoming, family-run hotel - owned by the same family since the 1970s - enjoys a prime lakeside setting on the water's edge. Glide along the canals of Venice on a...





Staggering mountain peaks and serene alpine lakes provide the extraordinary setting for this holiday as we travel in First Class all the way, including on the iconic Bernina Express and Glacier Express. Staying in the Engadine Valley and the popular mountain resort of Zermatt provides idyllic bases from which to explore the Swiss Alps by rail. ...





Experience the beauty of Norway, from natural wonders to charming cities, on this tour across stunning landscapes. Journey through an impressive wilderness of plateaus and waterfalls on two of the world's most famous train journeys: the spectacular Bergen Railway and the cherished Flåm Railway. Marvel at towering cliff faces on a sensational...





Discover evocative Scandinavian landscapes on picturesque rail journeys between the cultured capitals of Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Starting in Oslo, uncover its stylish modernity and thousand-year history on a guided tour, before travelling by rail to Stockholm. In the Swedish capital, visit the colourful Gamla Stan, one of the best-preserved...





Discover the towns and villages of the Italian Riviera, sparkling beside the Mediterranean Sea, as we explore the Cinque Terre and the harbour town of Portofino. Discover the pastel-hued fishing village of Camogli and relax in Sestri Levante, set on a scenic peninsula. Sail to San Fruttuoso Abbey, nestled in a secluded cove only accessible...





On this nostalgic escape, ride on celebrated railways, visit ancient castles and discover the beautiful gardens of north Wales. Journey through stunning scenery on the Ffestiniog Railway, the world's oldest independent line, and ascend Snowdon's summit on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Step into the unique village of Portmeirion, whose...





The Isle of Man is a unique blend of unspoiled coastal landscapes, sandy beaches and stunning scenery. The rich Celtic heritage is evident all over the island, and we experience it by riding vintage railways and exploring historic towns. Each day is an adventure of picturesque landscapes and captivating history as we journey down Douglas...





Discover the contrasting culture, superb landscapes and hidden stories of Japan with expert local guides, enjoying a variety of experiences - from unique cuisine and zen tea ceremonies to futuristic cities and serene island shrines. Experience the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo, where ornate wooden temples are illuminated by flashing neon...





Discover the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' on this unforgettable small-group tour of Sri Lanka, an unspoilt land steeped in history and home to tropical forests and sweeping golden beaches. Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa before taking in the majestic Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Wander through...





Experience the highlights of Switzerland from stays in two scenic locations, including the country's oldest town, Chur, and idyllic Täsch, perfectly placed for exploring the country's celebrated sights. Soak up dramatic scenes aboard two renowned railways, admiring glacier views enroute to Poschiavo on the Bernina Express and basking in alpine...