One of the advantages of Hungary being a landlocked country is how accessible it is for travel. Beautifully situated in the heart of Central Europe, Hungary is bordered by Austria, Slovakia, Ukraine, Romania, Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, each offering unique cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. If you’re in Hungary, take advantage of the opportunity to visit these neighboring gems during the autumn season.
- Austria
Austria is a dream destination during the fall months. The Austrian Alps, especially in Tyrol and Salzkammergut, are absolutely worth visiting for their golden and red foliage. If you prefer the city, Vienna, the capital, hosts numerous cultural events and classical music festivals that add warmth to the crisp autumn air. Walking along the Danube or exploring Schönbrunn Palace’s gardens surrounded by fall colors is a must. A local treat worth trying is Kaiserschmarrn (a fluffy shredded pancake), and to keep warm, grab a cup of traditional apple cider or mulled wine.
Key Highlights: Tyrol for mountains, Salzkammergut for lakeside views, Vienna for culture.
- Slovakia
If you’re looking for picturesque views, Slovakia’s landscapes turn into a painter’s palette in autumn. There are countless outdoor activities to discover the country’s beauty, like hiking in the High Tatras mountains. You also can’t miss the charming capital city, Bratislava, set along the Danube and lined with cobblestone streets and medieval castles. Be sure to enjoy the wine festivals and traditional Slovak dishes like bryndzové halušky, potato dumplings with sheep cheese.
Key Highlights: High Tatras for hiking, Bratislava for history, local wine festivals.
- Slovenia
Located southwest of Hungary, Slovenia is a small yet captivating destination, perfect for exploring during the fall season. One of Slovenia’s most popular destinations is Lake Bled, surrounded by mountains and vibrant fall foliage, only an hour away from the capital city. In autumn, Ljubljana is vibrant with charming riverside cafes and bustling markets. The vineyards in the Karst and Štajerska regions also offer a unique experience, featuring wine tours and tastings that showcase the country’s rich viniculture.
Key Highlights: Lake Bled for scenery, Ljubljana for architecture, Karst vineyards for wine tasting.
- Croatia
Croatia is well-known for its stunning Adriatic coast, but in the fall, its inland regions shine just as brightly. Plitvice Lakes National Park becomes a mesmerizing display of colors, with waterfalls and lakes surrounded by amber and red foliage. Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, offers a cozy and lively autumn atmosphere with fewer tourists and beautiful walks through parks like Maksimir. Coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split are less crowded, making it the perfect time to enjoy their historic charm.
Key Highlights: Plitvice Lakes for natural beauty, Zagreb for a relaxed vibe, coastal cities for history.
- Serbia
Finally, Serbia is an often-overlooked destination that shouldn’t be missed, especially with its charming autumn landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Belgrade, the capital, is a lively blend of historical sites, modern cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene. In the countryside, Fruska Gora National Park is a fantastic spot for hiking amidst vibrant fall foliage. Novi Sad, with its colorful architecture and riverside views, is another gem worth visiting, especially with fewer tourists in the fall season. Serbian cuisine, rich with grilled meats, fresh cheeses, and hearty soups, is perfect for chilly days.
Key Highlights: Belgrade for history and nightlife, Fruska Gora for nature, Novi Sad for riverside charm.
Roselle Torres
If you found the article interesting, I also recommend this:
