5 cozy city breaks in Europe perfect for autumn travel

I am a true summer holiday person, but I will admit, sometimes when it’s 35 degrees Celsius outside, I do daydream a little about colder autumn evenings with golden leaves. frosty weather and the smell of hot chocolate. So, in today’s blog post I am listing the cosiest city breaks, best enjoyed in autumn/fall weather. 

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Stockholm, Sweden

This city gets less attention when it comes to cozy city breaks, compared to other European destinations, but it’s one I would highly recommend visiting, especially in autumn weather. You can enjoy a ‘fika’ - the Swedish ritual of taking a coffee break (which usually involves some tasty pastries) after a long walk among colourful houses of the old town (Gamla Stan). Winters might get a little too cold, but if you visit in September/October time, you can still enjoy long walks outside during the day. And if it gets a bit too chilly for your liking, you can always use it as an excuse for a ‘fika’. Visiting in autumn will also help you crowds so you might get a more authentic experience.

Budapest, Hungary

Golden leaves and crispy weather, Budapest in autumn might be one of the most perfect locations to visit, if this is the vibe you’re after. The famous spas and ruin bars of the Hungarian capital might be less crowded in autumn too, which is an added bonus. You can enjoy a take away coffee or hot chocolate as you explore the beautiful architecture and attractions of the city. 

Madrid, Spain

Many people think of Spain as the ultimate summer holiday destination, but the capital may surprise you. Autumns and winters can get quite chilly, providing another cozy, city break location for any sassy traveller. In autumn the weather is still enjoyable for long walks in El Retiro Park, but you might need a scarf or warmer coat in the evening. Palacio de Crystal is especially popping when surrounded by the golden-brownish, deciduous trees in October/November time.

Oxford, UK

I know I am biased, because I got to live in this wonderful city for 3 years of my life while attending university, but Oxford literally is the best autumn city break you can find. The city itself is quite small and walkable. It is full of inviting cafes and restaurants and autumn really does bring the best out of the city. Lots of colourful leaves wherever you walk, without the weather getting too cold. The only thing that can slightly ruin your travel plans is the rain, but even then, there is lots to do and see indoors that would make your holiday worth the while. 

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is another city I got to visit during the autumn months, and it felt like the perfect city break. This city is also very walkable and easy to get to from one place to another. In autumn the air is fresh and crispy and you can hear Irish folk music playing in every corner of the city. If you are looking for the perfect sweater weather city break, Dublin may just be it. If you end up visiting towards the end of October, you will also be able to experience Halloween celebrated in the birthplace of this holiday. Halloween is taken very seriously on the emerald island, there are various celebrations and festivities you can join.

Even though I’ll always be a summer holiday lover at heart, there’s something undeniably magical about autumn city breaks. From sipping hot chocolate in Budapest to strolling through golden leaves in Oxford or Dublin, these destinations prove that cooler days can be just as memorable as summer sunshine. I hope you enjoyed this little collection and found some inspiration in it for your next adventure!