5 Travel Destinations Where You Can Save Big Bucks If You Visit in the Fall
Fall is around the corner, which means the possibilities of fall travel destinations are also abounding. Looking for some hidden gems offering deep discounts on fall travel?
Try these five destinations where the crowds thin out, but the appeal stays just as strong.
1. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
When Americans think of visiting the Balkans, most think first of Dubrovnik in Croatia, popularized by Game of Thrones.
“Just two hours away, Kotor Bay offers the same dramatic Adriatic scenery, fortified medieval towns, limestone mountains and waterfront promenades,” explained Alexandra Dubakova of FreeTour.com.
Not only do you save money by visiting Kotor Bay over Dubrovnik, but you also save by visiting after the summer rush. For example, the five-star Huma Kotor Bay Hotel And Villas typically starts around $346 in August, versus $206 in October per Kayak. Budget-oriented travelers can find outstanding stays between $50 to $90 per night in October, which cost far more in the summer.
2. Picos de Europa, Spain
Likewise, visitors looking for an alpine experience often think of Zermatt or Interlaken in Switzerland, but they’ll pay a pretty penny even in autumn.
Dubakova recommended Picos de Europa instead, for both better value and steeper fall discounts. “It offers high mountains, alpine lakes, funiculars, wildlife and hikes at more affordable prices than the Swiss Alps. In the fall, accommodations will typically cost €80 to €120 ($93 to $140) and dining is typically 40% to 50% less expensive.”
Indeed, the Hotel Santa Cruz often costs $300 per night in August, compared to $69 in the fall per Booking.com.
3. Yellowstone and the Tetons, US
Summer in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons is just nutty. Tourists from all over the world flood in, clogging roads and parking and sending hotel prices through the roof.
In October, prices drop 27% from $150 to $110 at the family-owned Alpine Motel in West Yellowstone. At the Yellowstone Village Inn and Suites, prices drop from 38% from $289 or more per night in the summer to $179 or less in October.
You’ll still get excellent hiking, wildlife, panoramic vistas and geothermal wonders — without the crowds.
4. Quebec City
Quaint Quebec City offers just as much historic charm, outstanding meals and beautiful scenery in the fall, but won’t break the bank as much as a summer trip.
A Saturday room at the Le Capitole Hôtel in August starts at $430. In November, the same room starts at $239, a 44% discount. More budget-friendly stays offer similar discounts.
“Autumn foliage makes Quebec City especially attractive and the city offers a distinctly European atmosphere without requiring an overseas flight for many North American travelers,” said Brian Rooney of GetCruiseInfo.com.
On the drive up from the East Coast or from flying into Montreal, stop at the beautiful Eastern Townships for wine tasting, hiking, maple “sugar shacks” and excellent gastronomy.
5. Medellín, Colombia
Most tourists skip Medellín in the fall because it’s “the rainy season.” But Courtney Muro, travel blogger at The Haute Bøhemian, lived in Medellín for years and said it’s the perfect time to visit. “The rain comes in short, warm bursts rather than all-day washouts and the whole country turns lush and green,” she added.
Check out Hotel Dix in the chic El Poblado district, where you can stay under $75 a night in September and October instead of $175 or more in July and August per Kayak.
Editor’s note: Rates and fees are subject to change.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.