Romantic fall getaways: Top 10 destinations for couples

What's more romantic than walking along golden forest paths, curling up next to a burning fireplace and savoring local delicacies? Autumn is a season of changes and spectacular colors, which expand the heart and invite you to embark on new adventures. Whether you dream of a city trip or a vacation in nature, discover the charming destinations we have collected for you for a couple's vacation in the fall and rekindle the spark between you.         

Shetland Islands, Scotland - breathtaking landscapes and rich culture 

The Shetland Islands are a spectacularly beautiful archipelago in the north of Scotland, and autumn is undoubtedly the most beautiful season to visit them. The islands are known for their dramatic landscapes, rocky beaches, ancient castles rising from the cliffs and small villages that preserve culture with a unique Scandinavian touch.

What you can do: Take a trip to the island of Lerwick, which offers a fascinating glimpse of the local way of life and an age-old musical tradition, visit the impressive castles of the tiny island of Noss or take a romantic cruise on Loch Ness, and end the day with a cold beer and a pile of juicy sausages in a happy Scottish pub.   

Pelion Peninsula, Greece - a perfect romantic getaway

A real Greek gem, located on the eastern side of central Greece in the province of Thessaly. The area offers a unique combination of breathtaking mountain landscapes, tangled forests, stunning beaches and rich local cuisine. After a summer full of tourists, the Pelion Peninsula is a perfect destination for a romantic autumn vacation in an authentic Greek atmosphere. 

What you can do: Wander the port city of Volos, the main square, the lively market and the elegant pedestrian street. Take a walk on the calderimi, ancient stone-paved donkey roads that connect the mountain villages, visit a small family winery, and enjoy a meaty moussaka and the addictive Philioni drink Tziporo at a local tavern.        

Portugal - captivating European charm

The pleasant weather, the bustling cities, the spectacular views and the nonchalant atmosphere make Portugal one of the most worthwhile destinations in autumn. Between the lively Lisbon and the chic Porto exists a world of ancient villages planted among green hills, magnificent palaces and countless possibilities for entertainment and pleasure.    

What you can do: Walk the picturesque streets of the Alfama neighborhood in Lisbon, climb to the Citadel of Saint George and look out over the city. Hop on a royal visit to the palaces of Sintra, and don't be too lazy to catch a train to Porto (about three hours from Lisbon), stroll through the alleys of the old city and go on a romantic cruise on the Douro River. 

Italy - peaceful towns and lively markets       

Italy in autumn is like a sensual painting in red, orange and gold colors. The leaves are falling, the air is cool and pleasant and nature is wrapped in a soft and pleasant glow. It's time to escape from routine and travel among endless vineyards, taste local cheeses at a lovely farmers market, celebrate the harvest season and enjoy the wonderful views of the south.   

What you can do: Drive along the coast in Amalfi, take a walk in the picturesque towns of Sorrento and Salerno and take advantage of the last rays of the sun to spend time at the beach. If you are interested in a city vacation, a trip through the ancient alleys of Venice, a gondola ride and a romantic dinner in a local trattoria will close the corner for you.   

Japan - colorful fall and harmonious nature    

Japan in autumn is a captivating romantic experience like no other. The traditional Japanese gardens, the Buddhist temples and the endless nature, are painted with a golden sheen that gives them a particularly magical appearance. Add to that the rich culture, the wonderful food and the exotic atmosphere and you have a dream couple's vacation.

What you can do: Visit Tokyo's impressive gardens and temples, the vibrant Shinjuku and Odeiba neighborhoods and the trendy Ginza district. Take a walk in the mystical Buken Forest and the northern island of Hokkaido, which offers dramatic mountain views, green valleys and clear lakes, and of course participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. 

Iceland - frozen glaciers and bubbling springs  

If you are a lover of nature and hiking, a combination of colorful fall, white glaciers and black volcanoes is a stamp for you. Iceland is one of the most exciting places in the world for a romantic vacation with plenty of couple activities, hiking in volcanic landscapes, spending time in bubbling hot springs and watching the northern lights. 

What you can do: Take a walk in Thingvellir National Park, in the impressive canyon that runs between cliffs of tectonic plates, in the gushing waterfall that pours into it and the largest lake in Iceland. Go on a glacier cruise in the Yukolsarlon lagoon, wade in the geothermal baths and indulge in the prestigious spa of the Blue Lagoon. 

USA - Romantic autumn in the streets of New York    

You don't have to go as far as the New England region, known for its beautiful foliage, to enjoy the special colors and romantic autumn atmosphere. New York in the fall is like a love story: Vibrant, exciting and full of surprises. The air cools, the summer light changes its color to soft gold and the city takes on a warm and pleasant appearance. 

What you can do: Stroll through Central Park, which comes alive with sensual fall colors and pleasant sunshine. You can walk down Fifth Avenue, cross Midtown to Times Square, hop for a spin in the Village, and if you're already around - don't miss an iconic slice at Joe's Pizza and the designer shops in Soho.  

Croatia - Balkan-style romance   

The small Balkan country offers a magnetic combination of mountainous landscapes, green valleys and large rivers with modern cities, fine food and an intimate atmosphere. Autumn in Croatia is like a picture from an old landscape postcard: romantic, calm and full of longing for simple love, like in the old days. Exactly what you will feel when you walk in it.

What you can do: Take a walk in Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic Sea, among the city walls, towers, palaces and Gothic churches. Go on a romantic cruise between the islands - Kolochep, rich in vineyards and orchards, Lofod, a small island with a collection of ancient churches and chapels, and Shipan Island, with the most beautiful secluded coves in the world.

Sweden - modern chic and ancient Viking tradition       

Sweden is romantic all year round, but more so in autumn. The beautiful Scandinavian country combines with nonchalant chic modern culture, design and lifestyle with ancient Viking tradition. With a cool capital city, a developed culinary scene, magical Viking cities and wild nature, it's impossible not to fall in love with it.

What you can do: Stroll through the alleys of the old Gamla Stan district in Stockholm, stop for coffee and Kannelboler (an addictive yeast pastry) in Sergel Square, and climb to a breathtaking view from the Södermalm cliff. Outside the city you can visit the Viking town of Sigtuna, whose wooden houses are painted in soft pastel colors. 

Thailand - tropical beaches and indulgent cocktails

With its pleasant weather, spectacular views, delicious food and rich culture, Thailand in autumn is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Whether you choose a cocktail-filled backpacking vacation on the islands, a couple's trip to the rainforests, explore the Chiang Mai region or combine all the options, enjoyment is guaranteed.    

What you can do: Start in the north in Chiang Mai, which offers a unique combination of tradition and modernity, beautiful temples and colorful markets. Continue on a jeep tour in the tropical jungle, swimming in the treetops and rafting in flowing rivers, and relax with a drink and a pampering massage on the white beaches of Kopipi Island. 

Lihi Ron is a journalist and editor, author of destination guides and leader of women and food tours in Israel and around the world.