How Context Experts Celebrate Fall Around the World

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp here in the Northern Hemisphere, we’ve tapped a handful of our expert guides across the globe to get a look at the special places they like to go to experience the magic of autumn. Here's what they have to say about their favorite fall activities in their cities:

Florence, Italy  

From Helen Bayley

Fall in Florence is a season of tranquility, and there's no better place to experience it than the Convent and Museum of San Marco.

The Convent and Museum of San Marco is an oasis of peace and tranquility.

Built at the bequest of Cosimo the Elder de Medici, this hidden gem houses some of the sweetest and most exquisite works by Fra Angelico. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Florentine, the serenity of San Marco in the fall is unmatched.

The Last Judgement, Fra Angelico

For those who prefer a touch of grandeur, the Bargello is another autumn must-see. 

The Bargello, constructed in the mid-13th century as a seat of law and order, is now a world-class museum of Renaissance sculpture.

One of her favorite pieces? The "Lady with Flowers" by Andrea del Verrocchio—a detail that captures the essence of Renaissance beauty. 

Lady with Flowers, Andrea del Verrocchio

And for those who love art without the crowds, the Uffizi Gallery offers a wonderfully peaceful escape from November to March. 

There is a flurry of activity over the holidays, but often, you are all but alone with the Botticelli. 

Consider paying a visit to the new, spectacular, installation of costumes in the costume museum of Palazzo Pitti. The display begins with the 18th century and takes you all the way to Giorgio Armani.  

A gown by the famous late 19th-century courturier, Charles Frederick Worth. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From Santiago Fallon

Buenos Aires in autumn, happening April through June, is a vibrant mix of nature and culture. Santiago's favorite escape is a boat ride through the Tigre Delta. 

It’s a spot not too far from the city center where you can really connect with nature. Fall is great because it’s not crowded, so you can enjoy a trip on one of the classic boats that were among the first in the region.

Club de Regatas La Marina

The fall colors—reds and yellows against the evergreens—create a stunning backdrop for the Belle Époque buildings along the shore. It's the perfect time to connect with nature, with just a light jacket needed as you sail past the old casino and rowing clubs.

For a more urban adventure, Santiago recommends a stroll through Chacarita or Belgrano. These neighborhoods come alive with the colors of autumn, making it the ideal setting to explore, perhaps ending the day with a picnic in Barrancas de Belgrano. 

The plane trees are stunning, and I love walking on the crunching fallen leaves. I’d wrap up the day by picking up a local brew or enjoying an IPA or stout.

Madrid, Spain 

From Nicole Indovino 

In Madrid, fall is all about enjoying the city's green spaces and cultural gems. El Retiro Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

My favorite fall activity in Madrid is going to Parque de El Retiro. It’s a beautiful park year-round but especially magical in the fall when the leaves change colors. You can spend hours exploring the carefully manicured gardens, but I love to choose a spot in the afternoon sun on one of the countless grassy hills to read, people-watch, and enjoy the last of the warm weather.

Don't miss the Palacio de Cristal in the park's center, often hosting free art exhibitions, or the peaceful pond where you can watch row boats glide by.

Palacio de Cristal 

If you're looking to explore more, Nicole suggests hiking in Casa de Campo. If you’re looking for a more relaxing outdoor experience, take a leisurely walk around the lake and top it off with a picnic lunch. 

There is also a great farmer’s market on the first Saturday of every month called Cámara Agraria.

Visiting in late October? Don’t miss the Mexican cultural center, Casa de Mexico, around Día de los Muertos to see the vibrant altar made every year, adorned with candles, flowers, and art.

Other autumn destinations Nicole recommends include a day trip to El Escorial to visit the Palace, one of the most architectural monuments of the Spanish renaissance, or enjoying the sweet decadence of churros dipped in creamy milk chocolate at Chocolatería San Gines. 

Churros and chocolate at Chocolatería San Gines 

Sydney, Australia

From Mark Dunn

If you find yourself heading south to Oceania during our fall season, when you arrive you’ll be greeted with spring blooms and warming weather. But autumn in Sydney (happening March to May) is a season overflowing with activity and sightseeing. 

Sydney in autumn might not have the fiery foliage of other cities, but it more than makes up for it with stunning coastal walks and vibrant festivals. 

Sydney in autumn is beautiful, it is still warm enough to get out and about, even into the water at the beach. The days are often sunny, but the evenings are cooler. Our various football codes start their competitions, so people get involved in sport, but it is also a time for cultural festivals.

Start your explorations with a walk along the Bondi to Coogee Walk.

Wylies Baths in Coogee 

High sandstone cliffs plunge down into the crashing sea below, with this public walkway running along the edge, down towards the waterline and back up to the clifftops. Sandstone outcrops even have ancient Aboriginal carvings along this walk, showing a whale and fish, both vitally important to Aboriginal life and culture in the Sydney region. The walk can be leisurely, with stops at cafes, pubs, parks and restaurants, or tackled with a brisk walk or run along the pathways.

The coastal walk is special to me because it showcases Sydney beauty and its history, it is a popular walk with locals and tourists alike, and unlike in summer, during autumn it is also a little less busy.

The Waverley Cemetery can also be found here perched along the cliff tops and is one of Sydney’s most picturesque locations.

Tombstones at Waverly Cemetery 

For a dose of culture, Mark recommends the Vivid Sydney festival, which takes over the city in late autumn.

This cultural festival of talks, live music, and events is best known for the spectacular light displays.

With light shows projected on the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and other sculptures around town, Vivid Sydney attracts millions over its three-week span. Vivid Festival in Sydney  

If you’re fortunate enough to attend, you’ll enjoy seeing the city light up as it heads toward winter. 

London, UK

From Alan  

London's fall charm is best enjoyed in quieter, off-the-beaten-path spots. Alan's favorite? The Dulwich Picture Gallery. 

Situated in the elegant suburb known as Dulwich Village, this off-the-beaten-track art museum has a small but world-class collection of Old-Master paintings. It is my local gallery, and I love spending time there, particularly as it is set in a lovely garden.

Dulwitch Picture Gallery  

The gallery's beautiful garden is the perfect place to enjoy the fall colors, and the café offers a cozy spot to relax after exploring the collection.

Exploring Autumn Around the World

Fall is a special time to travel, offering a unique blend of mild weather, fewer crowds, and the stunning transformation of landscapes. It's a season when cities reveal their true character—whether it's the golden hues of Florence, the vibrant festivals in Sydney, or the serene parks in Madrid.

Experiencing these destinations in the autumn allows for deeper connections and more authentic encounters, making your journey even more memorable. WLet us help you uncover the hidden treasures of autumn around the world, and make this fall one to remember.