5 places to visit in Germany this autumn (besides Oktoberfest)

The promise of rowdy parties, elaborate costumes and endless brews at Oktoberfest isn’t the only reason to visit Germany during autumn. In fact, this time of year is one of the nicest to visit, with mild temperatures, less crowds, lower prices and stunning fall foliage from the coasts of the Baltic, to the Alps in the south.

Still not convinced?

5 places to visit in Germany this fall

1. Sylt

This tiny little island off the coast of Germany and Denmark is a popular tourist spot come summer—but rooms are expensive and beaches are crowded. Come fall, however, the tourists mostly disperse and what’s left is a serene tranquility, perfect for breezy walks on beautiful coastlines.

There is more the 40 km of sandy beaches that comprise the western coast. On the eastern side you’ll find the Wadden Sea, famous for its numerous health resorts and spas.

2. Kellerwald-Edersee National Park

Immerse yourself into the oranges, reds and yellows that blanket the skyline in the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park. Located just outside of Kassel, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011 for its ancient beech forests. In addition, there is a scenic lake, full of wildlife and the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature.

You can also travel through the park on one of the many bike paths, or hike on more than 20 circular routes.

3. Elbsandstein Mountains

Located on a mountain range straddling the border between the Germany state of Saxony and the North Bohemian region of the Czech republic you’ll find the Elbsandstein Mountains. In autumn, they are a popular spot for climbers and hikers, with more than some 14,000 climbing routes. The striking landscape with bizarre rock formations creates a stark contrast against the changing leaves. Cutting through the range you will also find the great river Elbe. There are also a number of swimming baths and health resorts in the area.

There are more than 1,200 km of designated hiking routes, leading visitors through lush valleys, steep cliffs and stunning views. In addition, the area is well known for its vast diversity of landscape in such a small space: rocks, flat-topped mounds, plains, ravines and valleys all come together to create this unique scenery.

4. The German Wine Road 

Winding through Rhineland Palatinate you will find the German Wine Road. This is the oldest of Germany’s tourist wine routes, dating back to 1935. One of the most scenic times to travel along Germany’s wine road is during the fall. This area makes up the country’s second largest wine growing region. The route itself guides you through colorful vineyards, cozy little villages and, of course, wine shops and stops oozing with old-world charm.

If you’re visiting in September, don’t forget to check out the world’s largest wine festival known as “Wurstmarkt” in Bad Dükheim.

5. The Alpine Foothills

Autumn in Bavaria isn’t exclusively reserved for Oktoberfest. The Alpine foothills generally refer to the area at the base of the European Alps. It’s a popular spot for hiking throughout spring, summer and autumn.

In addition, here you will also find the Neuschwanstein Castle—Germany’s most famous. This also served as Walt Disney’s inspiration for Cinderella’s castle.