As the UK transitions into cooler weather, autumn escapes are becoming increasingly popular, transforming the season into a prime time for foliage-viewing holidays. Recent travel data shows searches for “best autumn holiday destinations” have risen by more than 300% in the past three months, reflecting a growing interest in leaf-peeping trips that combine natural beauty with cultural experiences.
Gianni Leone, Senior Product Director at Away Holidays, has curated a guide to the top autumn foliage destinations for 2025, covering vibrant landscapes across North America, Asia, and Europe.
Foliage tourism generates billions each year, particularly in areas such as New England, where scenic drives and local festivals support regional economies. Leone emphasises that timing is crucial, as peak colours depend on latitude, altitude, and weather. For 2025, slightly drier conditions may bring earlier peaks, but vivid displays are expected worldwide.
September hotspots: early colour and classic views
New England, USA
Best time: Late September to mid-October
“Nowhere does autumn like America,” says Leone. “The White Mountains in New Hampshire offer classic autumn getaways with maple, beech, and birch glowing in orange and gold.”
Nearby Stowe, Vermont, just two hours away, provides scenic drives, hiking, and cable car rides overlooking Mount Mansfield.
Quebec and Ontario, Canada
Best time: Late September to mid-October
Leone highlights Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario for its maple forests and calm lakes, and the Laurentian Mountains in Quebec for rolling hills and picturesque villages such as Mont-Tremblant, which offer quieter autumn views compared to winter crowds.
Huangshan, China
Best time: Late September to early October
China’s Yellow Mountains feature red maples and ancient pines, with autumn bringing crisp air and colourful peaks. Visitors may also witness the famous “sea of clouds” phenomenon in Anhui’s Huangshan Mountain Scenic Area.
October hotspots: dramatic contrasts and cultural heritage
The Dolomites, Italy
Best time: Mid-October to early November
Rising in popularity online, the Dolomites feature valleys transformed by orange European larch and Norwegian spruce. Leone recommends Val di Funes for sweeping views of the Odle and Geisler peaks. The area’s accessibility from UK airports adds to its appeal.
Seoul and Nami Island, South Korea
Best time: Mid-October to early November
In Seoul, Changdeokgung Palace’s Secret Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, bursts into colour each autumn. Nami Island offers a golden ginkgo tree avenue, ideal for cycling or walking under the autumn light.
Hoh Rainforest, Washington, USA
Best time: Late September to October
This temperate rainforest is known for vivid yellows, oranges, and reds contrasting with lush greens. Leone notes, “If you enjoy a rainy autumnal experience, Hoh is the place to visit,” with rainfall reaching up to six inches a day during the season.
November hotspots: late-season splendour
Kyoto, Japan
Best time: Mid-November to early December
Kyoto’s autumn season, known as koyo or momiji, frames ancient temples such as Kinkaku-ji and Daitoku-ji in vivid reds and golds. Forecasts suggest a slightly delayed season in 2025 due to warmer temperatures, extending peak viewing into December.
Lake Kawaguchi, Japan
Best time: Late October to mid-November
Near Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi offers iconic views with crimson maples surrounding the snow-capped peak, creating one of Japan’s most memorable autumn scenes.
Jiuzhaigou Valley, China
Best time: October to November
A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan Province, Jiuzhaigou features multicoloured lakes, waterfalls, and forested valleys, forming one of the world’s most surreal autumn landscapes.
Expert tips for planning your 2025 autumn foliage trip
To make the most of your autumn getaway, Leone offers the following advice:
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Plan early for popular spots such as Kyoto, New England, and Lake Kawaguchi, where peak foliage coincides with local festivals. Booking up to 12 months in advance helps secure flights and accommodation.
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Account for long-haul travel by allowing extra days to recover from jet lag and enjoy the scenery fully.
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Time your trip carefully by checking local forecasts.
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New England and Canada: Late September to mid-October
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Kyoto: Mid-November to early December
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East Asian mountain regions (Huangshan, Jiuzhaigou): Late September to November
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Travel responsibly by following “leave no trace” principles and supporting local communities through sustainable choices.
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Balance popular and lesser-known destinations to avoid crowds while still enjoying stunning views.
A chance to see the world at its most colourful
“Autumn foliage travel is a chance to see the world at its most colourful,” Leone says. “From Mont-Tremblant’s golden maples to Nami Island’s crimson avenues, planning around peak colour ensures the best views. These trips let you reconnect with nature, explore destinations thoughtfully, and enjoy local culture along the way.”
With sustainable travel gaining momentum, these destinations encourage mindful exploration, ensuring that the beauty of autumn endures for generations to come.