6 of the best places to visit during shoulder season, from Japan to Austria and Nepal

Fewer people, cheaper prices, milder weather – the last quarter of the year can offer a lot for travellers. Much of Europe, for example, is arguably better in September and October than the height of summer. Meanwhile, a lot of the northern hemisphere enjoys vibrant autumn colours, and mountainous regions can offer a real escape from crowds in the off-season. Here, travel experts share their recommendations. 1. Japan Travellers have long flocked to Japan in spring to witness the magic of cherry blossom season, but in autumn the foliage is just as impressive, with leaves transforming into vibrant shades of orange and red. “The autumn colours in Japan are absolutely stunning, and you get to see them without the crowds of the cherry blossom season, which people forget is just as popular with domestic tourists as overseas,” says Emma Otter, from Travel Counsellors. The horticultural splendour does not end there: on September 9, Japan celebrates Chrysanthemum Day. “Across Japan there are flower shows and exhibitions until mid-November dedicated to the chrysanthemum, a bit like the Royal Chelsea Flower Show,” Otter says. 2. Malta Though the summer season is winding down in Malta, parties, festivals and good times certainly do not stop in the autumn, Otter says. In mid-September, the Mediterranean archipelago, one of Europe’s most gay-friendly destinations, ramps up its LGBTQ+ celebrations with its epic annual Pride event. “It’s so much fun; when I went, we even had the Red Arrows fly over,” Otter says, referring to the UK’s Royal Air Force aerobatics display team. “What I love about Malta is that everybody’s welcomed with open arms.” In the autumn, there are also significantly fewer crowds than during the peak summer months, and the temperature is pleasant, ranging from 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit) to 28 degrees depending on the month. According to Otter, this makes Malta an underrated family beach destination. “Malta’s not usually known for its beaches, but we stayed at Mellieha Bay, which has this beautiful sandy beach, so it’s ideal for people who don’t have to go away in the school holidays, but still want to take children somewhere warm where the crowds are calming down.” 3. Chamonix, France While Chamonix is best known as a skiing destination, with the season typically running from mid-December to mid-April, travellers should not overlook the Alpine town in autumn, urges Alexander Blunt, co-founder at tour operator Heidi. The pleasant weather makes it the perfect time for a hike, and numerous trails offer stunning views of Mont Blanc, including the famous Tour du Mont Blanc trekking circuit. “There’s also so much to do for non-hardcore hikers as the ski lifts are still running to take you up into the mountains,” Blunt says. “So you can still access these beautiful trails whether you just want a casual 5km [3.1-mile] walk before having a nice lunch or want to hike 40km in a day.” 4. Austria For a twist on the traditional festival circuit, experience Austria’s ceremonial cattle drive, Almabtrieb, which typically takes place from early September to mid-October. “Farming communities take all the cows down from the summer pastures, clean and dress them up,” Blunt says. “There’s also food and music, and it’s this most incredible experience.” If you are looking for a base in Austria, he recommends Zell am See, located on Lake Zell, as the autumn leaves cast a golden glow over the Alpine town. “It’s a beautiful town on a beautiful lake with forest wrapped around it,” Blunt says. “Even in September you can still swim in the lake, and they’ve got all these lidos along it.” He also notes that e-bikes are readily available in mountain towns like Zell am See, opening up alpine access and picturesque trails for older or less active visitors. 5. Nepal Autumn is the perfect time to visit Nepal. As the monsoon rains finish, the days are dry and warm with clear air, ideal for trekking and viewing the high peaks. Autumn is also a culturally important season in Nepal. In October, Nepal’s biggest Hindu festival, Dashain, is a celebration of the victory of the goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. The festivities last for 15 days. Tihar, the festival of light and flowers, is a five-day event where towns and villages burst with colour, welcoming prosperity and honouring animals. 6. Albania Albania has experienced a boom in tourism over the past few years, with the summer particularly drawing in large numbers. However, Oliver Browne, chief executive at True Summit Adventures and a resident of the country’s capital, Tirana, says the peak season can be “chaos”, particularly as the main airport is unequipped for high volume. For Browne, autumn is the best time to avoid the crowds, and it is much kinder on the purse strings. “In October, for example, the pricing will be significantly cheaper for hotels than in the summer. Also, in the busy months, there will often be a several-night minimum stay, which is less likely, or not at all, in October,” he says. Meanwhile, September welcomes the country’s first international film festival, the Tirana International Film Festival. This is a must-visit for cinephiles and culture travellers, as it has been approved as an official Academy Awards and European Film Awards qualifying festival.

6 of the best places to visit during shoulder season, from Japan to Austria and Nepal

.css-1c6uqr6{color:inherit;font-weight:inherit;font-size:inherit;font-family:inherit;line-height:inherit;overflow-wrap:break-word;}Travelling in the autumn brings all kinds of benefits. Here are six places worth a visit in 2026, from welcoming Malta to warm and dry Nepal

1. Japan

Travelling in the autumn brings all kinds of benefits. Here are six places worth a visit in 2026, from welcoming Malta to warm and dry Nepal