What to Pack for Fall in Europe

The transition from summer to fall in Europe can be such a magical time. Those early fall days have such an energetic feeling to them. September to October is such an under-appreciated time to visit. Most of the influx of summer tourists are gone and it’s an ideal time to visit as there are still plenty of festivals and events happening. 

fall Weather in Europe

As with the typical fall season, there are a range of temperatures every day. It is typically still warm during the daytime but you’ll have cooler mornings and evenings. You never know how the weather will change from day to day so it’s best to be prepared for anything. You may get a trip full of warm, sunny days or you may get gray, rainy days. Always check the forecast before you leave so you have an idea of what to expect while you’re there.

What to pack for fall in Europe

You’ll want to pack plenty of layers to accommodate the flux in temperatures. The mornings can be crisp and chilly before warming up in the afternoon. Bring lightweight sweaters, cardigans, and jackets that you can easily add or remove. Rain is always a possibility, regardless of the season. Waterproof shoes and a compact, travel-size umbrella that can easily fit in your day bag will be essential. 

Pack versatile clothing items that can be easily mixed and matched to create different looks. Think neutral colors and classic pieces that can adapt to various weather conditions. That way you’ll be prepared for any situation.

Jackets & Outerwear

You’ll want to have a few options for outerwear during the fall season in Europe. I would pack my lightest one and then wear the heavier one on the plane to save as much suitcase space as possible. A trench coat is a must for fall and is a classic wardrobe staple for a reason. Worn open to showcase your outfit or cinched at the waist with a chic scarf, you can’t go wrong. A denim jacket is also a good idea for the day and I love a chic, leather jacket for the evenings. These are all the perfect third pieces to elevate any outfit. A lightweight wool coat would be ideal if you’re coming towards the later months of fall and need a bit more warmth.

Lightweight Sweaters & blouses

Europe in the fall calls for lightweight sweaters to stay warm during the cooler days and evenings. Pack a few of your favorite sweaters in classic neutral tones that can be paired with different bottoms for various looks. It also looks chic draped over your shoulders if you get too warm. Thinner sweaters will keep you from overheating while walking around all day.  

A classic button-up is always an easy outfit winner. Tucked into jeans and pants or worn open over a dress or skirt, there are multiple ways to style a button-up without feeling dated. I recommend layering your favorite tees, tanks, or bodysuits underneath any top or sweater so that you can easily shed this layer if needed. Lightweight long-sleeve blouses are a staple in my closet and can be worn in almost any season.

Dresses, Skirts & Pants

I always recommend packing at least one easy dress or skirt that you can wear around town during the day but also works for a nicer dinner out or a trip to the theatre. Skirts and dresses can easily be dressed up or down to suit your day and for chilly evenings, you can add a pair of tights. However, a nice pair of trousers can easily work in this situation as well if you prefer pants over dresses and skirts.

A few pairs of jeans and trousers will see you through most weather situations. Pair your jeans with a favorite tee or button-up for a casual day exploring. Or combine them with a lightweight sweater and loafers. Trousers are a great alternative to jeans and an easy way to dress up an outfit. 

Shoes & Accessories

With so much to see and explore in Europe, comfortable walking shoes are a necessity. You’ll want shoes that can withstand long days of sightseeing during the day. A comfortable sneaker is essential with all the walking you’ll likely be doing. Waterproof shoes such as Chelsea boots can easily be paired with any outfit, even if rain isn’t in the forecast. I have a post dedicated to the three shoes you need for Europe that has several of my favorites.

I always travel with a scarf of some sort. Whether a silk one to accessorize an outfit or a warmer one I can use for chilly mornings and evenings, you won’t regret packing one. A small backpack, shoulder, or tote bag can be handy for carrying your essentials, along with a water bottle and umbrella. It’s also great to keep one of your extra layers.

Packing for Fall in Europe requires a bit of planning to ensure that you're equipped to enjoy the beauty and charm of your destination. My biggest takeaways are packing easy layers and rain gear so you’re prepared for any situation.

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you. 

3 Shoes to Pack On Any Trip to Europe

It recently dawned on me how strategic and selective I’ve become when it comes to deciding what shoes to bring along on a trip. And rightfully so!  These babies are easily some of the heaviest items we pack (and usually the largest contributor to overweight baggage fees). So how do you narrow it down? I recommend three shoes to pack for Europe.

For starters, it obviously depends on the destination (a week in the mountains is going to look vastly different than one at the beach). But I’ve learned from my travels that even if you’re visiting a variety of climates and countries, there are some fail-safe options you’ll likely want to bring along anywhere. 

With all the traveling I do for my business and hosting Atlas Adventures trips, I’d like to think I’ve learned a thing or two when it comes to functional footwear abroad. So if you’re planning to hop across the pond anytime soon, allow me to spare you some blisters + unnecessary luggage weight. 

Whether traveling or home in London, I average five miles of walking every single day (often closer to seven and sometimes up to 12!) so heels really don’t make sense while you’re in Europe. I know they can make an outfit pop, but take my word on this. I assure you that you can still look chic in just about any outfit (and sans the pain) with only three simple pairs of flats. Still not convinced? Let’s get specific about the three pairs of shoes to pack for Europe. 

1. A SMART LOAFER

Headed to the theatre? A nice dinner? Drinks with a European? Any activity where a heel would serve you something a bit more dressy than usual, I believe a smart loafer will also do the trick. You can be chic + classic with a neutral pair. Depending on the pair, I think they pair well with a tailored pair of slacks, jeans or even a dress. I have had this pair in taupe for years and they never let me down.

2. ATHLETIC/LIFESTYLE SHOES

Not all athletic footwear is created equal. In fact, I’d argue that this trend has expanded far beyond athleisure. I love the juxtaposition of mixing my tennis shoes with something a bit more formal or feminine. Not only can it make an outfit more interesting, but your feet will love you on those days when you’re logging double-digit miles. These are also great for your travel days in case you find yourself rushing to make a connection. This trend isn’t going anywhere.

3. SEASONAL FLAT

Obviously time of year and climate are factors to consider, so let’s talk seasonal flats. 

FALL/WINTER: BOOTS

If you’re traveling in Europe in cooler temperatures, I’d advise a pair of ankle boots (they don’t weigh as much and aren’t as bulky as ones that cover your calves). Think about the clothes you’re packing to determine what color would suit your wardrobe. A bonus would be if they’re water-resistant or waterproof in case of rain.

FALL/SPRING: BALLET FLAT

Ballet flats can honestly be worn any time of the year and are one of the most comfortable shoes on the market! Wear them with dresses, pants, shorts- you name it. Similar to my remark about boots, consider if the outfits you’re packing will pair better with neutrals or a pop of color. I have a few pairs from Margeaux that never let me down.

 

SPRING/ SUMMER: SANDAL

With temperatures at their all-time high, I often don’t want socks anywhere near my feet! Opt for sandals that are comfortable enough to walk in and that are versatile enough to wear the same pair to the beach or with a dress to dinner. A huarache sandal is another great option that I’ve worn all over Europe.

So there you have it! I highly recommend traveling with minimal pairs of shoes and am confident you’ll be happy you did!

This post contains affiliate links that I may earn a small commission from, at no cost to you. 

xx

Whitney

The Perks of Hiring a Travel Advisor

As the travel industry evolves and travel demand continues to increase, more people are interested in working with a travel advisor. I thought it would be a good time to talk more about what the Atlas team can do for you when planning a trip and the perks of hiring a travel advisor. In today's fast-paced world, where time is of the essence, a travel advisor can save you precious hours and provide expert guidance, insider knowledge, and personalized recommendations to ensure that your next journey is unforgettable. Enlisting the services of a travel advisor can be one of the best decisions you make for your travel experiences.

I’ve spent most of the last decade traveling and have now visited over 40 countries and 150 cities to date. I’ve used these experiences to immerse myself in local culture, build relationships with travel vendors, and find the best aspects of any destination. Many of the travel questions you’re asking yourself while planning any trip are likely experiences my team has lived through first-hand. Whether you want someone to plan your entire trip, or you just want help with a few logistical questions, my team is here to help your travel dreams become a reality.

My team leverages our personal relationships and robust network of travel partners to ensure our clients receive VIP status and have the best trip possible. Our goal is to elevate your itinerary based on your dreams and preferences. These are just a few of the perks you receive when booking hotels through us:

• Room upgrades 

• Complimentary breakfasts

• Food & Beverage Credits

• Spa treatments

• Welcome amenities

• Early check-in/ late check-out

Your trip will be custom-tailored to meet your personal interests, travel style, and budget. You’ll have access to destination recommendations and need-to-know information (from our own experiences, our travel partners, and from on-the-ground locals we are frequently in contact with). Outside of our own experiences and knowledge, we also benefit from our even broader support from Embark Beyond bespoke travel collective based in New York. This allows us to tap into even more locations outside of our own team’s vast knowledge. 

While I hear from customers how much they’ve enjoyed planning their own trips in the past, they also mention how exhausting it can be. If you do an internet or social media search of the places you want to visit, you’ll be inundated with thousands of responses that will take hours to wade through. It can quickly become overwhelming and frustrating. Working with a travel advisor saves you time and includes reputable recommendations tailored to your interests. Time is one of our most precious resources and we’re able to give you back the hours, days, and weeks you could spend planning a trip.

If you’re planning an adventure-based trip like a safari or a hiking trip to the Dolomites, even more important details need to be planned for. We’re able to anticipate many of those important details that add up over time such as identifying the best airport to fly into, the best transfers, how to navigate public transportation, cultural considerations, and more. One of our favorite aspects is recommending special experiences that you might not have considered before such as access to premium event and concert tickets, private excursions, and exclusive access to museums. Those special moments are the core memories you’ll carry with you long after the trip has ended.

 It can be extremely overwhelming to plan a trip while also juggling your daily life. Let us take off some of the challenges of planning a trip so that you can truly enjoy your time without any worries. If you’re ready to access the perks of hiring a travel advisor, schedule a consult and we can get started planning a trip that aligns with your vision and preferences.