Travel Tips

Last-minute deals for Southeast Asia in autumn 2025: It’s the perfect time for a tropical getaway!

Mika talks with Southeast Asia expert Gemma. Snag a last-minute deal to Southeast Asia this Autumn! Enjoy smaller crowds, sunny days, and amazing value across Thailand, Vietnam, Bali, and more.

Most travellers rush to Southeast Asia during winter, but as someone who has spent many years living there, I’ll let you in on the region’s best-kept secret….

Autumn (September to November) is THE time to visit!

Southeast Asia’s high season runs from December to February, but during this time, many tourist destinations get crowded, and hotels hike their prices up.

By visiting in late autumn, you’ll find far fewer crowds, cheaper rates, and just as beautiful weather.

And don’t worry, it’s not too late to visit Southeast Asia this autumn. In fact, there are currently some fab last-minute deals for a spontaneous tropical getaway just before high season begins!

In this article

What makes Southeast Asia in autumn so special

Autumn in Southeast Asia sees the end of the rainy season, and honestly, there is nothing like the post-monsoon glow. The jungles are lush green, the air is cool, and the ocean is still and clear again.

As it’s also the end of low season, it’s the best time to visit Southeast Asia and snag awesome deals on accommodation, flights, and day trips. What you would spend on a standard hotel room during high season, you can spend on a lavish pool villa in autumn!

Why you should book your autumn trip to Southeast Asia now!

We may already be halfway through autumn, but there’s still time to catch great deals on late October and early November getaways. For example, on Skyscanner, you can find flights from Sydney to Bali or Phuket in November for less than $500 return.

Check last-minute booking websites and book your tropical getaway now before the December prices hit!

Top countries in Southeast Asia to visit in autumn

Southeast Asia in autumn offers stunning scenery, pleasant weather, and fewer tourists. Here’s where to go…

1. Thailand: Peaceful beaches and green landscapes

Source: Shutterstock

After living in Thailand for many years, autumn is my favourite time of the year, hands down. The rain has dried up, and everything is green and glistening.

Down south, the choppy waves of the Andaman Sea have stilled, and the ocean becomes transparent again, meaning swimming in Koh Samui or Phuket is back on the cards.

But because it’s still low season, you won’t feel like a squished sardine on the beach. And if you venture out of the popular tourist destinations, you’ll have some stunning deserted beaches all to yourself.

Northern Thailand is just as beautiful in autumn. The air is cool and the mountains are green, making hikes and temple visits refreshing rather than sweltering.

Don’t miss: The Lantern festival (Loy Krathong and Yi Peng) in Chiang Mai in November. Enjoy the truly breathtaking sight of thousands of glowing lanterns floating into the night sky and candle-lit krathongs drifting down rivers.

Australia to Thailand autumn flights start from $326 return

Stay connected during your Thai adventures with a Holafly eSIM for Thailand.

2. Vietnam: Golden landscapes and vibrant celebrations

Source: Shutterstock

Autumn is when Vietnam’s landscapes and culture shine at their best. The northern rice terraces in Sapa and Ha Giang turn gold after the harvest, and the crisp, cool air makes for the perfect time to go trekking through the mountains.

Meanwhile, central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Da Nang, enjoys sunny yet mild days. You can wander the streets and soak up the local culture without the summer crowds or heat.

Plus, as Vietnam is one of the cheapest Asian countries to visit, it is a top choice if you’re on a tight budget.

Don’t miss: The Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu). It’s a cute children’s celebration with lanterns, performances, and moon cakes, but you don’t have to be a kid to join in.

Australia to Vietnam autumn flights start from $320 return

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3. Indonesia (Bali): Lush rice terraces & traditional festivals

Source: Shutterstock

Bali is a firm Aussie favourite for short and spontaneous getaways as it’s just a 6-hour flight from Sydney or Melbourne. However, this can make the peak season (winter) crowded and expensive.

For a more enjoyable Bali getaway, head there in autumn. The island is far quieter, meaning you can stroll along beaches like Seminyak or Nusa Lembongan without being surrounded by tourists.

The seas are calmer and crystal clear, making it perfect for watersports, whether it’s surfing, snorkelling, or diving.

In autumn, you can also cycle peacefully through the rice terraces, enjoying the lush green landscapes, rather than having to weave through stalled traffic and inhale exhaust fumes.

Don’t miss: Some awesome Bali festivals! In October, head to Nusa Penida for the island’s annual festival, featuring cultural performances, music, and environmental activities. In November, you’ll find Galungan, a sacred celebration where the Balinese commemorate the victory of good over evil by making offerings at temples.

Australia to Bali autumn flights start from $246 return

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4. Malaysia: Vibrant rainforests and colourful city adventures

Source: Shutterstock

Autumn sees the west coast of Malaysia emerge from the wetter months. This makes for the perfect time to visit the vibrant cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang, where you can explore the colourful street art, wander through the heritage streets, and enjoy mouthwatering street food without the rain or crowds.

Meanwhile, autumn in northern Borneo is awesome. You can trek through the lush rainforests, go on river cruises, and spot wildlife during canopy walks, before the northeast monsoon begins in late November.

Don’t miss: Deepavali, the most festive holiday of the year for Hindu Malaysians. Known as the Festival of Lights, Deepavali celebrates light over darkness, and locals illuminate the night sky with fireworks, firecrackers, and oil lamps. It’s an ideal time to visit the Hindu temples!

Australia to Malaysia autumn flights start from $299 return

From the cities to the rainforest, stay connected with a Holafly eSIM for Malaysia.

Travel tips for visiting Southeast Asia in Autumn

Pack light layers: Evenings can be surprisingly cool in the northern regions of Thailand and Vietnam, like Chiang Mai and Sapa. Bring jumpers and long-sleeved trousers to stay warm.
Book ahead for festivals: Certain celebrations, such as the lantern festival in Chiang Mai, are extremely popular, so hotels often fill up during these dates. Reserve accommodation early if you plan to join in any festive celebrations.
Check weather forecasts: While Southeast Asia in autumn generally means the end of the rainy season, showers can still happen. Research the region you’re travelling to and pack a good-quality rain jacket!
Purchase an eSIM before you land: By pre-purchasing an eSIM from a provider like Holafly, you can get online while waiting for your luggage and book a ride to your hotel via the Grab app, swiftly avoiding the airport taxi scams.