20 international spots to see beautiful fall foliage

We couldn’t write this piece without including the destination most synonymous with changing leaves. If you’ve ever considered a foliage trip, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island have probably topped your list, and for good reason.

In the northeast of France, the Vosges are the mountains you’ve never heard of. Although less well-known than the Alps or Pyrenées, it boasts some of Europe's best foliage. The closest city is Metz, a beautiful base along the Moselle.

If you’re looking for a different kind of autumn, head to Japan. Kyoto is one of the largest and most interesting cities in the country, with the added benefit of amazingly bright trees.

A bit further north and across the border from New England, the Canadian province of Québec is one of the few North American destinations that could rival the northeast. From Mont-Royal in Montréal to the Laurentians and the north, Québec in the fall is never a bad idea. Keep in mind that the further north, the earlier the peak season.

Japan might be better known for fall colors, but don’t discount Seoul. The Korean capital is a hotbed of color come fall. Check out Namsan Park and the Seoul Forest.

Most visitors to Bavaria go either in summer for hiking or in winter for snow sports. However, autumn is an ideal time to enjoy fewer crowds and brilliant hues across the region.

Similar to Bavaria, most visitors to Banff, Jasper, Revelstoke, and the broader region prioritize certain months to enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you want to avoid wildfires, crowds, and freezing temperatures, go in September or October. You’ll also see wonderful color changes.

The land of fire and ice is fantastic for leaf peeping. The days are still long, although there is no midnight sun, and the weather is not yet too cold. Start your road trip in Reykjavik and drive the Ring Road. You’ll see black sand beaches and waterfalls surrounded by fall foliage.

Beaches might be the first thing that comes to mind when you picture Vietnam. But the country's capital, located in the more temperate north, has great foliage during September, October, and November.

Road-tripping around New Zealand is the best way to see all the sites and viewpoints. This is especially true in the autumn, when much of the country, but particularly the southern island, explodes in leaf changes. Don’t forget that the southern hemisphere fall is reversed from the north.

There is no better time to visit the PNW than fall. Most of the hiking trails are still open, but sans crowds and summer heat. The trees change, and leaves dot the Puget Sound, and further in the mountains, larches paint the peaks golden.

Patagonia is a dream destination for nature lovers, and it’s best seen when the leaves change. Aim for September or October to catch the peak South American fall, and keep in mind that further south, that often happens earlier in the season.

Alaska in the fall is a dream, particularly Denali. See this epic national park full of glaciers and mountain peaks surrounded by changing leaves.

There’s never a bad time to visit Tuscany and sip on the region’s wine, especially if you like rolling hills in the countryside. However, the best time of year might be fall when those hills are dotted with falling leaves.

This national park is actually a network of valleys in the Sichuan province. And in autumn, it is full of foliage, making it the ideal location.

Located just outside Gothenburg, this small town is the ideal location for an autumnal stop in Sweden. Watch the leaves change in a tranquil village known for its many cafes serving amazing coffee. There’s also a light show every year during the season.

An easy day trip from Taipei, this national park is usually the best place to go for greenery near the city. However, in the fall, it’s the place to go for leaf-peeping in the country!

Croatia might be best known as a summer destination, but if you wait for the change of seasons, you’ll be pleasantly rewarded. This is especially true in Plitvice National Park and the surrounding area. The trees change to golden and bright orange, a brilliant contrast to the turquoise waterfalls and lakes. 

Romania’s most magical (or spooky) destination is best visited in the fall. You’ll see the “Dracula” castle all dressed up in autumnal colors, but it’s also full of Halloween vibes.

Another Rocky Mountain fall favorite! Head to Aspen for bright colors amongst some of the most scenic peaks in the US!