Head to one of these sunny destinations for a burst of vitamin D

Northern Italy’s lakes are a better bet in autumn. It’s still warm, the scenery transforms to reddish-gold hues and, if it rains, the lakes take on a wonderfully misty atmosphere. Once the summer crow

Stretching across two continents separated by the Bosphorus Strait, this ancient Silk Road city was once the capital of both the Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman empires. Crumbling hammams rub shoulders with striking contemporary buildings, while the call to prayer from Hagia Sophia mosque can be heard from the 15th-century Grand Bazaar, as well as Michelin-starred restaurants. Istanbul is sewn together by a series of storied districts, which results in a varied hotel scene. Relive the Ottoman heyday in a Sultanahmet townhouse; book a boutique stay fuelled by cafes and galleries in Karaköy; or check in among the designer stores of Nişantaşı.

Autumn blues getting you down? Take it as your cue to get away to the sunshine

The stunning Lizard Heritage Coast in Cornwall features hidden coves and beautiful beaches, with waters that are home to marine life such as dolphins and seals. Kynance Cove, which appeared in the BBC

Whether you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-track adventure or a new perspective on a classic destination, there’s a cruise to make your island-hopping fantasy real