Those in the know have long been aware that autumn travel often means less crowds, milder weather and cheaper rates. So how do you take advantage of the best deals on travel and make the most of your autumn holiday? Well, you can start by requesting budget-friendly holiday information on trips to any of these wallet-friendly cities.

Paris

How many countries can boast that Paris is just a Chunnel-ride away, other than the U.K.? Paris makes a perfect weekend getaway destination, or even a place you can visit for a full week. Start your Christmas shopping early, or take in the public sites such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Visit the Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay on the first Sunday of the month when admission is free.

Greece

The economic crisis engulfing Greece has made tourism prices drop significantly, so now is as good a time as any to visit the beautiful country with literally thousands of years’ worth of historical sites to view.  With fewer travellers competing for airfare, hotel rooms and tours, you’re more likely to get deals. Taking in the balmy weather along the Grecian coastline won’t cost you much, or anything, at all.

Portugal

Portugal is an ideal location for a short, affordable autumn trip because you can take in many of the country’s attractions in a relatively small amount of time. Visit castles such as the Palmela, cathedrals, parks and beaches at no cost. All you have to pay for are the basic travel expenses and lodging, but you’re sure to find a good deal on these during the autumn months.

Ireland

You won’t have to spend half your budget on transportation, if you stick close to home. While people coming across the ocean might find Ireland an expensive place to visit, it’s more affordable for those coming from the U.K. itself. Ireland has breathtaking views during this time of the year, if you’re willing to bundle up and wear a few layers as you explore the countryside. Visit free points of interest such as Glendalough, Croagh Patrick and the Hill of Tara.

Budapest

The capital of Hungary offers low hotel room rates during the autumn months when travel is light, so there’s no better time to take in the historical sites in Budapest. Budapest has yet to switch to the Euro, and the exchange rate stretches the pound further than it does in other countries that accept the Euro.

Budapest is famous for its Turkish baths and spas, which don’t cost an exorbitant amount to visit. You can also stroll through the Budapest Zoo and Botanical Gardens for an affordable price. There are often art and culture festivals held during the autumn months, too, that cost nothing or very little to attend.

Krakow

Another European city that doesn’t cost too much to visit is Krakow, Poland. Take a flight, or hop a train from France to Krakow and book a hotel room for one of the lowest prices of the year. Free sites in Krakow include:

• Rynek Glowny, a historic shopping district.
• Auschwitz-Birkenau, which is a little outside of Krakow and is the site of massacres during World War II. Today, it is a museum.
• Ulica Kanonicza, an area complete with historic homes.

Mexico

Use the low airfare to your benefit and take a trip to Mexico, where the pound will go quite far when you exchange it. Resorts tend to have more available rooms during the autumn, and because of news about drug wars in other areas of Mexico, resorts are struggling to fill them. Thus, you can negotiate a low price. Resorts in other areas of the country are typically quite safe, and the exclusive beaches are popular with international visitors looking to warm up after leaving chilly temperatures.

New York City

Can a vacation to America’s largest city really prove affordable? It can, if you start by investigating the low autumn airfares to get you to the city. From there, take in the city on a budget, by staying at a bed and breakfast or a “dorm style” hotel. You could even take advantage of lower room rates on nearby Long Island or in New Jersey and take the train or bus in everyday. Free and cheap activities include:

• Walking through the iconic Central Park.
• Window-shopping along Fifth Avenue.
• Visiting a museum with a suggested donation; you could donate as little as one American dollar and still see places such as the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art.

About the Author:  Kevin Sawyer is a contributing blogger, consultant and budget-conscious traveller. He lives in Bristol and is planning to visit Krakow later in 2013. With the exception of Mexico, he has been to every other destination on his list.