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7 top fall trips for empty nesters to take now — from Tuscany to Turks and Caicos
Whether you're craving crisp mountain air, vineyard views, or warm turquoise water, these fall destinations deliver the reset you didn't know you needed.
When my friend Nicole's daughter left for college, she said the house felt different. The constant hustle of school drop-offs, dinner preparations, and the occasional argument over curfew—gone.
"It's just the two of us now, and it feels strange," Nicole tells me. "You go from being responsible for everything and everyone to having so much quiet. You realize it's just the two of you, and that's both freeing and a little unsettling."
To break up the quiet, Nicole and her husband, Mike, decided to take a trip. They booked a weekend getaway to Napa Valley. At first, it was just a way to escape the silence of the "empty nest," but once they were there, they started talking about what they wanted to focus on now that the kids had left the house. It was a conversation they hadn't had in years.
For many empty nesters, the transition from a busy household to an eerily quiet home is an emotional shift. However, while it can feel overwhelming, it's also an opportunity for rediscovery. Research shows that a growing number of empty nesters are embracing this new phase with travel, using it to reconnect, recharge, and reimagine what's next. According to a recent survey , 67% of empty nesters say they travel more now that their children have left home.
As the leaves begin to change this fall, it's the perfect time to embrace that sense of freedom. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway to ease the transition or planning a grand adventure abroad, this guide will help you discover the best trips to take.
Fall foliage escape: wander Burlington, Vermont
Take in the tranquility of Burlington, Vermont, with a sunset sail on Lake Champlain, where the fall foliage reflects on the calm waters.
(vermontalm via Getty Images)As autumn paints Vermont's landscape with vibrant hues, Burlington stands out as a prime destination for leaf-peepers. The city's streets are lined with brilliant reds and golds, offering a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls. Lake Champlain's shoreline offers serene views, especially during sunset, when the sky mirrors the lake's calm surface. Beyond its natural beauty, Burlington's arts and makers scene adds to its charm.
A must-do experience is sailing on Lake Champlain with the Whistling Man Schooner Company. Their two-hour BYO cruises aboard traditional wooden sloops, Friend Ship and Wild Rose, offer a unique perspective of the city's waterfront and surrounding fall foliage.
After the sail, indulge in a meal at Frankie's, a farm-to-table restaurant in downtown Burlington. Helmed by Hen of the Wood alumni, the menu features seasonal dishes like roasted oysters with poblano-shallot butter and pickled sweet corn, showcasing Vermont's rich flavors.
Where to stay: Hotel Vermont offers a stylish, modern stay in the heart of Burlington. With rustic-chic design and a focus on local Vermont products, the hotel mirrors the city's laid-back yet refined vibe. It's a short walk from the best dining, shopping, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal base for exploring Burlington. Make sure to try a pickle martini at the bar, followed by a farm-to-table dinner at the house restaurant Juniper.
Coastal weekend escape: unwind on Longboat Key, Florida
St. Regis Longboat Key offers an idyllic escape with stunning views of its pristine white sand beach and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Gulf, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
(St. Regis Longboat Key)Longboat Key, Florida, is ideal for empty nesters seeking a peaceful retreat. This quiet island on the Gulf Coast offers relaxation and coastal charm, with soft, powdery sands perfect for long walks or simply unwinding by the beach. The tranquil atmosphere makes it easy to embrace the quiet and enjoy the present moment.
Explore the island's natural beauty, from kayaking Sarasota Bay to dining at local seafood restaurants offering fresh catches. Longboat Key blends laid-back charm with understated luxury. For more adventure, head to nearby Sarasota for cultural experiences or enjoy a sunset at one of the local golf courses.
Where to stay: The St. Regis Longboat Key is the epitome of elegance. With its beachfront location, world-class amenities, and peaceful atmosphere, it's the perfect base for a luxurious retreat. Relax by the infinity pool, snorkel in the saltwater lagoon, indulge in fine dining, or treat yourself to a La Mer facial at the spa. The St. Regis Longboat Key is ideal for empty nesters seeking a tranquil, high-end getaway.
Italian autumn adventure: discover Tuscany and Puglia
Experience the tranquility of Tuscany's vineyards in early autumn, where misty mornings and rolling hills create the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
(Guido Cozzi/Atlantide Phototravel via Getty Images)Tuscany and Puglia offer the best of Italy for a two-week romantic getaway. Tuscany's rolling hills and medieval villages provide the perfect setting for a peaceful retreat, while Puglia, with its whitewashed villages and coastal beauty, offers a unique charm.
In Tuscany, he harvest season in the fall adds a special touch to your visit. The vineyards are alive with activity as the grape harvest unfolds, making it the perfect time to tour the countryside. You can enjoy wine tastings at family-owned wineries, where you'll learn about the winemaking process and savor the freshly harvested grapes that will soon become world-renowned wines. After visiting Florence's museums or exploring Siena's medieval architecture, retreat to the Tuscan hills for quiet nights with candlelit dinners and seasonal specialties like roasted chestnuts and truffle-infused dishes.
Puglia is quieter and less crowded but equally captivating. Picture a seaside meal of fresh seafood while the sun sets over the Adriatic. Wander the white streets of Ostuni or explore the ancient trulli houses in Alberobello, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Where to stay: In Tuscany, Villa Petriolo is the perfect retreat. Located near Florence, this boutique hotel and organic agricultural estate is set among vineyards and olive groves. It offers intimate rooms with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, a wine cellar, and an excellent restaurant that highlights regional specialties.
Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel , in Puglia offers a luxurious escape along the coast. The resort's Mediterranean design and private beach provide the perfect setting for relaxation after a day of exploring Puglia's stunning coast.
Riverside getaway: savor wine and charm in Porto, Portugal
Porto is a city where history, culture, and wine collide most delightfully. Situated along the Douro River, where you can book a sailing charter or dinner cruise, Porto offers cobbled streets, iconic bridges, and colorful buildings. But what truly sets Porto apart is its wine culture, especially the port wine that has been produced here for centuries.
Fall is the ideal time to visit, with mild weather and vibrant colors. Take a tour of the city's historic wine cellars, where you can sample some of the finest port available. From the scenic Ribeira district to the hills surrounding Porto, the views are spectacular as the vineyards turn to deep reds and golds.
Porto is also a haven for food lovers, with fresh seafood, salted cod (bacalhau), and pastries like pastéis de nata. It's a place where you can indulge in world-class food and wine while soaking in the beauty of the landscape.
Where to Stay: For a true Porto experience, stay at Forte de Gaia , a boutique hotel that is part of Marriott's Autograph Collection offers stunning views of the Douro River and Porto's skyline. The modern design and elegant rooms make it the perfect base for exploring the city's historic sites and wine culture.
Caribbean luxury retreat: relax in Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos offers some of the most dazzling beaches in the Caribbean — and even in August, you'll find peace, sunshine, and shockingly blue water.
(SHansche via Getty Images)Turks and Caicos offers some of the world's most pristine beaches, making it the ideal destination for a sun-drenched fall getaway. This Caribbean paradise is known for its crystal-clear waters and powder-soft sand, offering the perfect combination of luxury and relaxation. Whether you're lounging by the world famous Grace Bay Beach, snorkeling in the world's third-largest barrier reef, or exploring the unspoiled cays, Turks and Caicos offers endless opportunities for rejuvenation.
Spend your days soaking up the sun or participating in activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. When you're ready for a break, enjoy a meal at a local seafood restaurant, where fresh catches of the day are always on the menu.
Where to stay: For ultimate luxury and privacy, Rock House is a dream destination. This boutique hotel offers stunning views of the ocean, with accommodations designed to blend seamlessly with the island's natural beauty. Each villa has its own plunge pool, offering privacy and relaxation, while the resort's world-class service and excellent dining makes it the ideal place for a tranquil, indulgent escape.
For a cultural escape with seasonal beauty, explore Kyoto, Japan
Discover the beauty of Kyoto at night, where the Yasaka Pagoda stands tall along the historic Sannen Zaka Street, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
(Chakrapan Issaranusorn via Getty Images)Kyoto, Japan, is a cultural treasure trove. The former imperial capital is home to over 1,000 temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses, each steeped in history. Kyoto is particularly enchanting in the fall, when its gardens and temples are blanketed in reds, oranges, and golds. Explore the Gion district, where you might spot a geisha, or visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, reflecting the vibrant colors of the autumn landscape.
Fall in Kyoto offers the perfect chance to experience Japan's rich traditions. Take a stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, or enjoy a serene boat ride on the Hozu River. Kyoto's food scene is equally impressive, with dishes like kaiseki (multi-course meals) and matcha-based sweets that reflect the city's history.
Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto offers an elegant retreat along the Kamogawa River. The hotel combines traditional Japanese design with modern luxury, offering rooms with stunning river views. Its serene atmosphere makes it the perfect base to explore Kyoto's temples, gardens, and culture while providing a peaceful sanctuary to return to after a day of sightseeing.
For a luxurious ocean retreat, unwind in Los Cabos, Mexico
Experience the luxury of Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos, where vibrant bougainvillea meets pristine sands and an infinity pool, offering the ultimate coastal retreat.
(Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos)Los Cabos offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Nestled at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabos is known for its sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury resorts. The variety of experiences makes Cabos the perfect destination for empty nesters who want to unwind while still enjoying a vibrant mix of adventure.
Start your day with a peaceful sunrise walk along Medano Beach, followed by a relaxing afternoon at one of Cabo's world-class spas. If you're looking for adventure, go whale-watching (seasonal) or try sport fishing in the waters that made Cabo famous.
Where to stay: For an indulgent stay, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos offers everything you need for a luxurious retreat. From oceanfront suites with panoramic views to world-class dining and a full-service spa, the resort provides an all-inclusive experience designed for ultimate relaxation. Whether you're lounging by the infinity pool or dining on Michelin-starred cuisine, the resort where Bravo filmed its Real Housewives spin-off, Love Hotel , is the perfect escape.
