Summary

• Fall is a magical time to visit Mediterranean countries like Morocco, Spain, and Croatia, as tourist crowds disperse and beautiful natural colors emerge.
• These countries offer pleasant weather, authentic cultural experiences, and lower prices during the lean season, making them ideal for autumn travel.
• From Morocco's festivals and events to Spain's fresh harvests and mushroom hunting, there are plenty of unique experiences to enjoy in the Mediterranean this fall.

Mediterranean countries are hot choices (pun intended) when it comes to summer travel. A little-known secret is that even after tourist crowds disperse around August and the lean season sets in, these places remain as magical as ever, thanks to the natural charms of fall grandeur. Think crisp air, wafting aroma of roasting chestnuts, blazing fall foliage, and romantic warmth.

Places like Greece or Monaco teem with tourists seeking respite from the scorching heat during the summer months. Now imagine the famous Mediterranean climate turning even more pleasant than usual during fall; plus, the expanse of these beautiful countries laid out majestically and quietly for passionate wanderers to authentically enjoy local cultures without the disturbance of excess crowds. What more could one ask for to make autumn travel memorable? Here are the 10 best places to visit in the Mediterranean this fall.

The hotels featured in this article are all based on our recommendations and have been curated after thorough research on stays around Mediterranean holiday destinations. These accommodations enjoy superior reviews from travelers, as well as high ratings of 8.0 and up at the time of publishing. The varying price range of stays mentioned hopes to cater to an assorted group of travelers seeking comfort and hospitality as per their budget.

Morocco

There is no better time to visit Morocco than during the fall season, October onwards. Temperatures in the North African country dip to pleasant levels around this time, enhancing its postcard-perfect beauty even more. Not only is Morocco a cheaper alternative to nearby Spain, but it also boasts a full calendar with exquisite festivals and events one can attend to indulge in local heritage. Fall ensures a great time in Morocco for travelers seeking a trip away from crowds.

Related: Why It's More Adventurous To Visit Morocco By Ferry

Spain

Spain enjoys very pleasant weather in the weeks leading up to winter, making it an ideal fall holiday destination. There are hikes to go on or leisurely strolls to take along amber-hued pathways. Visiting during the lean season will also be easy on the pocket, with accommodations and other tourist activities in Spain accessible to the public for much cheaper. Fresh harvests, mushroom hunting, and chestnut roasting season keep Spain lively with a storybook-style autumn between September and November.

Croatia

Want to spend a perfect vacation in Croatia? Consider traveling to this European country during the fall season, when brilliant oranges and yellows replace lush greens. Hiking through the Plitvice Lakes National Park, with its abundant natural beauty, is one of the best ways to indulge in Croatia's autumnal change. Delaying those Croatia summer plans by a few months will also ensure a peaceful stretch of travel, distant from crowds that have come and gone during the beach paradise's peak tourist season.

Monaco

Monaco may be tiny size-wise, but it is richly endowed travel-wise, even in the fall when the country is refreshed by rain. September to November is a fantastic time to visit this beautiful place in the neighborhood of France and Italy, as crowds retreat after summer to give way to fall celebrations. It's a great time to go sailing or enjoy the cruising culture with local events like the Monaco Yacht Show. Indulge in Monaco's storied culture of luxury at its many casinos and clubs, or opt for a more niche scene at the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival. The options are plenty!

Related: Top 14 Things To Know Before Going To Monaco

Turkey

Take the beauty of Turkey in the summer and multiply it by ten. That's what this exotic country turns into during autumn. Natural wonders are abundant in Turkey, offering much scope for the fall season to showcase its artistry with resplendent colors, wonderful warm temperatures (perfect for swimming), and golden hues that envelop the country. Take in the charms of the earth at the Kaçkar Mountains and Yedigöller National Park, or enjoy the ever-famous hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia for an unforgettable romantic experience.

Malta

Europe's hidden gem, a less-crowded alternative to Italy, one of Hollywood's favorite shoot locations: Malta is known by many titles. All of this (and more) makes this island country worth a visit. In the fall, this popular holiday destination takes on a more charming character with sepia tones enhancing the beauty of Valletta's historic landscape or nearby Gozo's famous rock formations even more. Malta's Mediterranean climate makes for a pleasant setting to explore this tiny travel haven during autumn.

Slovenia

For travelers out to escape harsh summers and biting winters, there is no better time than fall to experience the wonders of Slovenia. Often touted as the cheaper but equally stunning alternative to Switzerland, Slovenia welcomes autumn with the fragrance of roasted chestnuts in the air and natural vistas awash with changing colors. Popular tourist destinations like Lake Bled become more enjoyable around this time, with a pleasant drop in temperature making it easier to get around. Take a trip to Triglav National Park to witness the majestic scapes of the Julian Alps in all their fall glory.

Related: This Slovenia Love Bridge Is Home To Some Ironic Landmarks

Greece

Greece holds high repute as a summer paradise. But here's a secret -- this Mediterranean travel hotspot is also one of the most underrated but fantastic destinations to experience during autumn. Beach lovers who are left hot and bothered by the summer sun will especially appreciate their days by the sea as the temperature drops by a few degrees (and could even bring some rain). It's also the ideal season for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers to make the most of a Greek holiday with coastal hikes that offer breathtaking vistas of the open seas without too many tourists to obstruct the view.

Portugal

Give that summer trip to Portugal a miss and head to this Mediterranean country in autumn instead. Portugal is dotted with travel-worthy fall destinations where blazing foliage comes alive and there is just the right amount of crispness in the air. Arriving just after the peak tourist season, autumn in Portugal ensures fewer crowds and greater peace, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture at leisure. The best part? Portugal keeps its events calendar buzzing throughout fall, covering a wide scope from bull-running to film screenings.

Jordan

For a country like Jordan, where summers can turn really dry, and winters may become extreme, autumn comes through as a savior season for travelers seeking comfortable conditions to explore this beautiful Arab country. Jordan has historic sites aplenty, which can be enjoyed on foot during the fall when the heat doesn't overwhelm. Cooler temperatures will also allow travelers to immerse themselves in the famed surreal scapes of Wadi Rum to the fullest during the daytime.