If crowds and scorching weather are not for you, waiting until September or October to take a European vacation is a brilliant idea.
As the peak season draws to a close and the kids return to school, European destinations become much more peaceful, yet everything remains open.
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So when it comes to planning your trip to Europe, you’ll most likely feel perplexed about what to pack.
But fear not, as we’re here to help.
Thanks to our insider knowledge, we know the best travel clothes for Europe in the fall.
So don’t pack your suitcase before you finish reading, as we’ll share our favorite European fall outfit ideas you can recreate without effort!
Some European countries enjoy warm weather well into autumn, whereas others get cold quickly.
There is also a big difference in temperature from the beginning of the season to the end.
Therefore, to ensure you bring the right travel clothes for Europe in the fall, consider where you are going and in what month.
Layering is the smartest method to follow when deciding what to wear in Europe during the fall.
If you pack enough clothes to create 3 or more layers, you’ll be covered no matter the weather.
So, as a general guideline, the following items should be on your list for packing for Europe in the fall.
Short Sleeve Tops
Short-sleeved tops are a staple for all seasons. They serve primarily as a base layer under a hoodie or jumper for fall.
However, some parts of Europe may still be warm enough in early autumn to wear single layers during the day, especially when walking or hiking.
We recommend packing T-shirts of different materials.
For example, bring a few cotton tops, as this breathable fabric is ideal for days when it is surprisingly hot.
Long Sleeve Tops
For the fall months, it’s worth packing a couple of long-sleeved tops too.
These will come in handy for those days when it is too cold to wear a T-shirt but too warm to wear a jumper.
In addition to long-sleeved t-shirts, consider bringing a casual shirt/blouse. These are excellent for dressing both up and down fall outfits for Europe.
Long sleeve polo shirts and denim shirts are ideal for men, like this G-Star Raw Slim Fit Denim Western Shirt.
Hoodies And Sweaters
You’ll need to bring a few more hoodies and jumpers than you would if you were visiting Europe in summer. For autumn, these clothing items will serve as outer layers.
However, if you’re in Northern Europe towards the end of the season, they will make a mid-layer of warmth underneath a jacket.
This is especially true in the evenings when the temperature drops.
Variety is vital, so we recommend bringing a couple of thin and breathable hoodies or jumpers and a few thicker ones that can keep you warm.
This way, you cannot get caught out by any weather changes.
For women, a cozy long cardigan is also a must for Europe in the fall.
An open-front soft knit cardigan like this one from ZESICA is perfect for the shoulder seasons.
Jacket
Wherever you go in Europe, you’ll need an outer layer. The type of jacket you’ll need will depend on the part of Europe you are traveling to.
In most countries, you won’t need a thick winter coat; a lightweight yet insulated jacket will be sufficient.
A denim jacket, such as this Levi’s Women’s Original Trucker Jacket, could also work well if you’re not in a cold country.
Alternatively, bomber jackets, like this one from Lavnis, are a fab choice as they are lightweight and windproof.
Rain Jacket
Aside from a jacket to keep warm, a rain jacket is a must for the shoulder seasons in Europe.
If the chance of rain is minor where you’re going, opt for a packable raincoat to keep in your bag and wear over your regular jacket when needed.
If rain is more of a threat, invest in a high-quality waterproof jacket that protects you from the cold, rain, and chilly winds.
This is best if you’re planning to do lots of outdoor adventures like hiking during your vacation. In this case, a Columbia jacket is ideal.
The Men’s Glennaker Sherpa-Lined Rain Jacket has a Sherpa pile lining for warmth and a lightweight, water-resistant shell.
Long Pants
When it comes to bottoms, bring plenty of long pants. Unlike in the summer, fall is ideal for wearing jeans, so don’t forget to bring your favorite denim.
Other casual pants include leggings for women and tracksuit bottoms or cargo pants for men.
These comfy clothing items will make you feel cozy when traveling, hiking, and exploring.
You’ll also want to bring some smart-looking trousers for nights out.
These Levi’s Men’s XX Standard Tapered Chino Pants come in many different colors and are highly versatile, so they can be easily dressed up or down.
For women, high-waisted skinny trousers like these from SweatyRocks look fab for European nights out, and there are many autumny colors and patterns available.
You might consider bringing shorts when wondering what to pack for Europe in the fall.
This is a good idea if you are traveling to Southern Europe, particularly the Canary Islands, which stay relatively warm all year round.
As fall weather can be unpredictable, it is not uncommon for some autumn days to feel like summer.
This is less likely in Northern Europe, though if you’re traveling right at the start of autumn, you could bring some shorts just in case.
Dresses
For women, you can also wear dresses in Europe during autumn.
However, leave your strappy sundresses at home, as you’ll need something with a bit more coverage to keep the cold air out.
Maxi dresses and below-the-knee dresses with long sleeves are suitable for Southern Europe. Something like this Kranda Short Flutter Sleeve Smocked Ruffle Maxi Dress is ideal.
If you’re heading to places like the UK, Switzerland, or Sweden, opt for a long-sleeve knee-length dress like this one from AUSELILY.
If you pair it with tights and boots, you’ll stay cozy if the temperature unexpectedly drops.
The suggestions above are some of the best travel dresses for Europe in autumn.
Footwear
Choosing the proper footwear for fall in autumn can also be challenging. But, again, variety is vital, so aim to bring a few different styles.
For women, pack a pair of comfy trainers or walking shoes like these lightweight slip-on trainers from Feethit.
They feature a breathable mesh upper with ventilation holes for temperature control and soft insoles to support the arches of your feet.
If you’re heading somewhere like southern Spain or Greece, where autumn is relatively warm, you might want to bring your favorite pair of sandals.
However, ankle boots will be more suitable if you go further north of the continent.
These Soda Chance Cut-Out Stacked Block Heel Ankle Booties are ideal as they keep your toes warm, but the side holes allow ventilation.
For men, comfy walking shoes are also a must, along with a pair of smart shoes for the evenings like these Jousen Oxford Plain Toe Derby Shoes.
Scarves
For most parts of Europe, you won’t need a wooly hat and gloves in the winter months, but as the weather gets chillier, you’ll need at least a thin scarf to keep your neck warm.
These MANSHU Soft Cotton Hemp Scarves are ideal for the beginning of fall and come in lovely neutral earthy tones.
There are also plenty of options for men, such as this color block cotton/linen blend Scarf by GERINLY.
Fall Travel Outfits For Europe
With the above layers in your suitcase, you’ll be able to put together some stylish outfits for this unpredictable season.
If you need a bit more inspiration, here are some beautiful autumn travel outfits for Europe for men and women.
Fall Outfits For Men
Below, you’ll find three outfits for men.
City Explorer
Fall is an idyllic time to see the sights in Europe’s top cities like London, Rome, and Madrid.
So dress in style with these THWEI Athletic Cotton Cargo Pants in gray, matching these Bruno Marc Mesh Sneakers Oxfords Lightweight Shoes.
These shoes are fab as the cushioning memory foam insole helps reduce foot fatigue.
On top, wear a plain t-shirt and layer it with this Hanes EcoSmart Sweatshirt in charcoal heather. It is made from 7.8-ounce fleece to keep you cozy should it get a bit chilly.
Island Life
If you’re catching the last of the sun in the Balearic or Canary islands, opt for these knee-length Tansozer shorts in white, with a drawstring elastic waist. They match perfectly with the versatile Bruno Marc Sneakers in Burgundy.
Lastly, this El Select Athletic Short Sleeve Hoodie in Ruby will complete the perfect fall beach look.
Outdoor Enthusiast
Fall is an excellent time to visit Europe to enjoy the great outdoors.
Without the extreme summer heat, you can embark on some of the continent’s best hikes or try new outdoor or water sports like canoeing, rock climbing, or caving.
However, when spending time in nature during the shoulder season of fall, you’ll need to be prepared for all weather.
So layer up, starting with a BALEAF Long Sleeve Top, followed by this Willit Lightweight Sports Hoodie. It features UPF 50 protection, moisture-wicking fabric, and thumb holes for extra coverage.
These Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants are ideal. You can quickly and easily turn them into shorts by zipping off the legs if you get too hot.
Then, pair them with a good pair of waterproof hiking boots to keep your feet dry on muddy terrain. These CC-Los Waterproof Hiking Boots are lightweight, providing all-day comfort and protection.
Fall Outfits For Women
Below, you’ll find 3 outfits for women.
City Explorer
Embrace European fall fashion when visiting Paris or Milan with these Lildy Denim Jeggings in wine and these MaxMuxun Faux Suede Classic Chelsea Flat Ankle Boots in black.
The low block heel, round toe design, and cushioned insole make these boots comfy for walking around town all day.
On top, wear this HWOKEFEIYU Women’s Turtleneck Sweater in black over a t-shirt or long sleeve top. The longline style and turtleneck design create extra coverage to keep you warm.
It goes great with a simple crossbody bag in a brown shade, like this one from Isabelle.
Island Life
If the sun is shining and the sand is beneath your feet, enjoy the feeling of warmth on your legs with this Amoretu V Neck Flowy Swing Shift Dress in caramel.
The dress has long sleeves, which can easily be rolled up if needed, and the breathable Dacron material is ideal for warmer autumn days.
If the temperature drops, throw on this lightweight crochet cardigan by Mafulus in beige. Pair with some flat pumps like these ones from Ataiwee.
They will keep your toes warm, but you can quickly slip them off for beach walks.
Outdoor Enthusiast
Stay dry and warm when hiking mountains or paddling in the lake with a pair of KEEN Explore Waterproof Trainers in Majolica Blue.
The dry membrane housed in lightweight ripstop mesh keeps water out yet allows your feet to breathe.
These SMENG Lightweight Hiking Pants in Khaki are also water resistant to keep you dry in the rain and quick-drying if you start to sweat in the sun.
The BALEAF Quick Dry Long Sleeve Pullover Top in blue will complete the look.
Finally, keep this OTU Lightweight Rain Jacket in your bag or around your waist.
It is waterproof and windproof, so it will keep you warm and dry in an unexpected downpour and also serve as a layer of warmth if the temperature drops.
Final Thoughts On Travel Clothes For Europe In Fall
Fall can be a tricky month to know what to wear anywhere in the world.
But because of the multiple climate zones, your travel clothes for Europe in the fall will largely depend on where you are on the continent.
Still, by following the advice in this guide and taking plenty of layers, you’ll be able to create suitable outfits, whatever the weather in September, October, or November.
Traveling to Europe soon and not sure what to wear? Read one of the following guides for more tips:
