31 Places to Visit in October: The Best October Getaways
Are you wondering where to travel in October? Well, it’s an absolutely wonderful month to explore – especially in Europe and the US. It’s shoulder season in a lot of countries so prices are lower, and the weather is quite often still pleasantly mild. There are so many amazing places to visit in October.
There’s also Halloween, beer festivals, and beautiful fall foliage that makes everything from big forests to tiny English villages come alive with reds and oranges. Can you tell that autumn is my favourite time of year?
As well as being beautiful, it’s also the ideal time to travel. It’s shoulder season across most of the world, so airline prices are down. Hotel prices are also down, and the summer crowds have left!
This is the main reason I love October getaways as opposed to the peak summer months. Most of my favourite trips (especially around Europe and the UK) have been during this month.
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31 Best Places to Visit in October
From visiting some of the most gorgeous beaches to a safari, chasing the Northern Lights or a European city break. if you’re wondering where to travel in October, here are the 31 best October travel destinations in the world.
1. Budapest, Hungary
Average Temperature: 16°C – 8°C
A beautiful European city, Budapest oozes charm and nostalgia. It’s also grown significantly in travel popularity in recent years and it’s easy to see why!
With its beautiful Parliament Building to the surprising cheapness of everything, it’s no wonder travellers are packing their bags and heading off to Hungary!
As well as the Parliament Building, make sure to visit the Fisherman’s Bastian, and Mattias Church, and take a dip in Budapest’s famous thermal baths.
There’s easily enough to do in Budapest to fill a weekend. However, there are also plenty of trips you could take outside the city or to neighbouring countries if you want to stay a little longer.
2. Dalaman, Turkey
Average Temperature: 25°C – 14°C
An area known for its stunning coastline, natural beauty, and ancient ruins, the Dalaman region of Turkey is one of the best places to visit in October.
It’s so much less crowded, but you can still enjoy great weather. We visited Antalya in October and the weather was perfect for exploring and sightseeing.
Some of the top attractions in Dalaman include the Dalyan Delta, where you can take a boat tour through the stunning wetlands and see the famous Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs.
There’s also lots of history scattered around the Lycian way – visit the town of Fethiye to see more rock tombs. For beach lovers, the stunning beaches of Ölüdeniz and İztuzu are well worth a visit.
✅Discover the best hotels in Dalaman
3. Paris, France
Average Temperature: 17°C – 10°C
Paris is one of those places where you can travel almost all year round. From fireworks from the Eiffel Tower to lazing in the Jardin des Plantes under the heat of the summer sun, you can’t go wrong with the French capital.
However, there’s a reason this is one of the best places to travel in October.
Warm weather, fewer tourists (meaning fewer queues), and the French autumn festival season is just hotting up. You could watch spectacular fountain shows at Versailles, see a new ballet or Opera performance or see the gardens in full bloom at Giverny.
Plus, don’t forget a trip to the Louvre. Also, see the spectacular views from the top of the Eiffel Tower and go on a dinner cruise along the River Seine. You could even take a trip to Disneyland and see their delightful Halloween spectacle.
4. Greek Islands, Greece
Average Temperature: 25°C – 15°C
An idyllic, island-lovers paradise, Greece is a great place to visit from spring through to Autumn. Athens is also a great place to travel in Autumn as the weather makes exploring the gorgeous Acropolis much more bearable.
However, in October, your choice of travel destinations in Greece is endless. Santorini’s whitewashed buildings and peaceful beaches always make for a popular choice.
The history of Rhodes is also well worth a visit. Or you might prefer to explore somewhere a little more romantic and a little less touristy, like Kos or Milos.
Visit Mykonos for the vibrant nightlife and even more gorgeous beaches. Plus, it’s one of the best places to go in October because you’ll find much fewer crowds and much cheaper prices! Tempted? I don’t blame you.
5. Mexico City, Mexico
Average Temperature: 24°C – 10°C
One of the best times of year to visit Mexico City is in October. In late autumn, Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city that doesn’t have the heat of peak summer.
The weather is generally warm (but not too hot) and less busy than the peak times of December to April. Plus, if you visit towards the end of October, you may even have a chance to see the Day of the Dead festivities.
This festival is one of the biggest draws of visiting Mexico City in autumn. The Day of the Dead festival, or Día de los Muertos, takes place on November 1st and 2nd.
The city’s streets and plazas are filled with colourful decorations, traditional altars, and people dressed in elaborate costumes, as locals honour their loved ones who have passed away. It’s a fascinating experience and a worthy addition to your bucket list.
Aside from this, visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a stunning building that hosts exhibitions and performances; the historic centre of the city, where you can see landmarks like the Zócalo, the Cathedral, and the National Palace; and the many museums and galleries that showcase Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.
I recommend the Museum of Anthropology because it’s amazing!
✅Discover the best places to stay in Mexico City
6. Reykjavik, Iceland
Average Temperature: 7°C – 2°C
If you want a more wintery destination and love dramatic scenery, potentially snowy landscapes and glaciers, Iceland is the place for you. The country is packed full of natural wonders including the infamous Blue Lagoon, the breathtaking Northern Lights and sometimes active volcanoes.
Pair this with whale watching, magnificent churches, funky nightlife and some slightly questionable food (fermented shark, anyone?) and you’re without a doubt in for the trip of a lifetime!
✅Discover the best places to stay in Iceland
7. Algarve, Portugal
Average Temperature: 24°C – 15°C
The gorgeous south of Portugal has beautiful beaches framed with limestone cliffs, a warm climate all year round (even in February, the coldest month in Europe), and charming towns.
One of the biggest reasons that the Algarve is one of my favourite places to go in October is that it is much less crowded than during the peak summer season.
This place gets packed in summer! The autumn means that you can enjoy the region’s stunning beaches and natural beauty with far fewer tourists.
Explore the historic town of Lagos, with its charming cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and stunning coastline.
Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a wetland area with a variety of bird species and walking trails, and the town of Portimao, which is known for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous harbourfront.
Plus, while you’re in the Algarve, don’t forget to sample their cuisine – fresh seafood, grilled meats, Portuguese wine, and pastel de nata!
8. Yosemite National Park, USA
Average Temperature: 22°C – 5°C
Visiting Yosemite National Park in October can be a wonderful choice for travellers looking to enjoy the stunning fall foliage, mild weather, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.
The park’s trees turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The mild weather makes it a great time for hiking and exploring the park’s many trails and landmarks without getting too hot and bothered.
And without fighting loads of other people for a good photo spot. You might even have iconic landmarks like the Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls all to yourself!
The weather in Yosemite in autumn can be variable, with temperatures ranging from around 5°C (40°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day, and dropping down to below freezing at night.
It is important to pack warm layers and appropriate gear for hiking in changing weather conditions. Nonetheless, with its beautiful scenery, and variety of outdoor activities, Yosemite is one of the best places to visit in October.
9. Munich, Germany
Average Temperature: 14°C – 5°C
Who can resist endless beer and bratwurst? If that sounds like you, then you’ll love Munich! Easily one of the best places to visit in October, the German city is known for its famous Oktoberfest.
The huge folk festival typically lasts between 16-18 days and usually attracts around 6 million people each year.
As well as in Munich, there are similar events on a smaller scale all across the country. So it’s a great time for a little bit of a German road trip too.
Prepare for plenty of eating, drinking, partying, dizzying fairground rides, colourful parades and traditional folk dress-up. Easily one of the best places to travel in October.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Munich
10. Paphos, Cyprus
Average Temperature: 26°C – 16°C
One of the places in Europe that’s still pleasantly warm when autumn hits, Paphos is one of the best places to travel in October. Full of stunning beaches and plenty of fascinating ancient Greek history, a trip to Cyprus will stick in your memory.
There’s plenty of natural beauty including springs and deep gorges to explore. Avakus Gorge is one of my favourite hikes in Europe.
So, whether you’re a fan of history, or adventure or would just like to relax by the waves sipping cocktails, Cyprus will give you a bit of everything.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Paphos
11. The Lake District, England
Average Temperature: 12°C – 5°C
Although England can be known for its rather dreary weather, even with the downpours, the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK. In October, it comes alive with an abundance of wildlife.
The gorgeous rainbow of autumn colours makes it even more special. Just 3 hours from London by train, the Lake District will make for an incredibly peaceful weekend. Go walking through the wilderness and bracken fens to getting on the water at Lake Windemere.
Or hike to the top of Scarfell Pike, England’s tallest mountain peak. Either way, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained. Plus, with the kind of beauty, you’ll see there, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
✅Discover the best places to stay in the Lake District
12. San Fransisco, USA
Average Temperature: 21°C – 13°C
I love San Fransico and the hilly, foggy, city is easily one of the best places to visit in October. The weather here is typically mild (up to 20°C (68°F)) which makes it a great time to explore the city’s many neighbourhoods, landmarks, and attractions.
Additionally, the fall foliage in parks like Golden Gate Park and the Presidio can be stunning during this time of year.
While in San Fransisco you absolutely have to visit the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Painted Ladies are also well worth a visit.
And, if you have time, explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and the Mission District, each with its own unique character and attractions.
✅Discover the best places to stay in San Francisco
13. Split, Croatia
Average Temperature: 20°C – 14°C
Located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Split is one of the best places to visit in October. The gorgeous old town was one of my favourite places in Croatia.
The city’s other top landmarks, like the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are ideal in October since the weather is mild enough to be able to enjoy them but hot enough to wear a T-shirt! The decrease in crowds is also pretty nice.
In addition to the Diocletian’s Palace, visitors can also explore other cultural attractions such as the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, the Gallery of Fine Arts, and the Ivan Meštrović Gallery.
The city also has a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants and cafes offering plenty of delicious dishes.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Split
14. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Average Temperature: 31°C – 25°C
For the perfect dose of wildlife, amazing temples, and delicious food, Cambodia is one of the top October travel destinations.
It’s just emerging from the rainy season, so expect a few scattered showers. But also expect average temperatures hovering just under 30°C and lots of colours in the countryside.
As well as the unmissable Angkor temples, pay a visit to one of the wildlife centres and you may even be in with a chance of seeing sun bears, leopard cats, and wild elephants.
Just make sure your trip supports sustainable tourism and whatever you do, don’t ride the elephants!
15. Malta
Average Temperature: 25°C – 18°C
Malta is a great October getaway. The warm weather makes it a great time to explore the Dingli Cliffs, the Blue Lagoon, and the Blue Grotto.
The island is rich in culture and you can explore ancient Megalithic Temples, wander the maze of cobbled streets in the old town, and explore the museums.
The capital, Valletta, is a vibrant city with plenty of rich history and architecture. Be sure to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the National Museum of Archaeology. I recommend taking a trip to Gozo too – you won’t regret it!
Autumn falls between the peak summer season and the winter season in Malta. And, although you can visit the island all year round and still experience warm weather, it’s one of the best places to visit in October because you’ll still get the best weather.
Plus, fewer crowds make exploring the island more pleasant and hotel rates and other costs are usually lower too.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Malta
16. Luxor, Egypt
Average Temperature: 35°C – 19°C
If you love history, Luxor is easily one of the best places to visit in October. This city in southern Egypt can get extremely hot in the summer. When we visited it was about 40 degrees and almost unbearably hot. The autumn months will make seeing this historic city much easier.
Some of the best places to visit are the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak Temple Complex, and the Luxor Temple. You can also take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor for a unique and memorable perspective of the city and its surrounding desert landscape.
If you enjoy getting out on the water, I also recommend a cruise along the River Nile River. Many tour providers offer this and it gives you a chance to take in the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere.
After you’ve spent some time on the river, head into the vibrant city to barter over local crafts, spices and textiles with the locals.
17. Florence, Italy
Average Temperature: 21°C – 11°C
Florence, the capital of Tuscany in Italy, is one of the best places to travel in October. This gorgeous city is full of stunning architecture and within easy day-trip distance of other popular Italian destinations like Pisa, and Cinque Terra.
Florence is fascinating. You could spend hours exploring the main Piazza alone with its stunning Cathedral and Baptistery. Also, visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery for a deeper dive into the culture.
The Italian gem is also known for its beautiful fall scenery, with the changing leaves adding a vibrant splash of colour to the city’s already picturesque streets and piazzas.
18. Izmir, Turkey
Average Temperature: 24°C – 15°C
Izmir is a wonderful Turkish city, rich in cultural attractions. The Archaeological Museum is great, and the Izmir Clock Tower is really scenic. I also highly recommend visiting the nearby Ephesus, one of the ancient wonders of the world, and our reason for visiting Izmir in the first place.
It’s absolutely magnificent, and if you’re wondering where to go in October, you can’t go wrong with Izmir. It will be so much more bearable (we visited in June so trust me on this one!).
In the autumn, the weather in Izmir is generally warm but not overly hot like in the summertime. With an average temperature of around 25°C, it’s a great time to explore the area. Konak Square, the Asansor and Izmir Agora are all fascinating.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Izmir
19. Bruges, Belgium
Average Temperature: 15°C – 9°C
Bruges is an absolutely wonderful choice during the autumn months. It’s the perfect time to explore this enchanting city with its cobbled streets, winding canals, and historic charm.
Bruges is one of the best places to visit in October as the autumn foliage transforms the city into a haven of red and gold. The pleasant, crisp weather makes it ideal for strolling through the quaint streets, eating every Belgian chocolate you can find, and enjoying the local beer.
Plus, you’ll find that the crowds have thinned out compared to the busy summer months. With fewer crowds and lower hotel prices, Bruges becomes an ideal destination for an October getaway.
It’s also easy to explore other parts of Belgium from Bruges – you can get a train directly to Brussels and Ghent, making this a great month for exploring the country.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Bruges
20. Vienna, Austria
Average Temperature: 15°C – 9°C
Vienna, in autumn, takes on a special kind of elegance. The city’s grand architecture, historic coffeehouses, and cultural treasures blend harmoniously with the changing foliage.
The air is crisp, and the city is transitioning into the shoulder season, so you’ll find a quieter and more authentic experience.
You can enjoy a warm apple strudel in a classic Viennese café while admiring the golden leaves in the city’s parks.
What’s more, spending a day exploring Vienna‘s cultural scene is in full swing, with music festivals and art exhibitions galore. Vienna in October is a delightful blend of cultural richness and autumnal beauty.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Vienna
21. Devon and Somerset, England
Average Temperature: 15°C – 8°C
To tell the truth, I’m an English girl through and through and I love exploring my own country. Devon and Somerset are two of my favourite areas (as well as Dorset, Cambridge, and London) but this time of year, these English gems are awash with autumnal beauty.
Imagine wandering through quaint villages, their thatched roofs adorned with russet leaves, and exploring the rugged, windswept coastlines with dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
The countryside comes alive with the scent of crisp, fallen leaves and the promise of cosy pubs serving hearty stews and roast dinners.
It’s the ideal time to enjoy West Country cider and traditional cream teas while taking leisurely walks through exploring historic sites like Bath or the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park.
You’ll also find much fewer tourists around, so you’ll likely have many of these beautiful places to yourself.
22. Rome, Italy
Average Temperature: 22°C – 12°C
A few days in Rome without the mad tourist crowds? I must be joking, right? But nope, if you want a chance to visit the Colosseum without queuing for an hour, Rome is one of the best places to visit in October.
Rome in October is a great fusion of ancient history and the beauty of autumn. It’s the ideal time to visit iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican, and the weather is just right – not too hot, not too cold.
You’ll have the chance to explore the city’s charming neighbourhoods and bustling piazzas, all while enjoying the rustling of leaves under your feet. And don’t get me started on the food – indulging in bowls of authentic pasta and gelato is an absolute must!
✅Discover the best places to stay in Rome
23. The Canary Islands, Spain
Average Temperature: 26°C – 20°C
The Canary Islands in October are an idyllic destination for those in search of some late-year sun. With pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months, you’ll find these Spanish gems at their most inviting. And, the warm but not scorching weather is just perfect.
The volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines take on a new, beauty in the autumn. Whether you’re hiking through the rugged terrain of Tenerife’s Mount Teide or unwinding on the pristine sands of Gran Canaria, the islands offer a diverse range of activities.
Plus, with the summer crowds gone, you’ll find a more tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for exploring local markets and savouring authentic Canary Island cuisine. October in the Canaries is like an extended summer with just a touch of serenity.
✅Discover the best places to stay in the Canary Islands
24. Edinburgh, Scotland
Average Temperature: 13°C – 6°C
If you feel like walking through a Harry Potter film set in the autumn, then I highly recommend a trip to Edinburgh. Now, of course, I can’t promise you that it won’t rain.
But I can promise that the city’s iconic architecture, from the medieval Old Town to the elegant Georgian buildings of the New Town, looks even more majestic against the golden autumn leaves.
The crisp air carries the promise of cosy evenings by the fireplace in traditional Scottish pubs, sipping on whisky and eating hearty stews.
With fewer tourists around, you’ll have a chance to explore the city’s nooks and crannies, visit the haunted underground vaults, and enjoy the rich culinary scene, from haggis to buttery shortbread, just before it gets busy again in winter!
✅Discover the best places to stay in Edinburgh
25. Petra, Jordan
Average Temperature: 29°C – 13°C
For undeniably beautiful wonders that you won’t see anywhere else on the planet, head over to the Middle Eastern gem that is Jordan. Despite being surrounded by conflict, Jordan remains a peaceful country.
The locals and some of the friendliest and most generous in the Middle East. Most definitely one of those destinations that will take you by surprise. Be sure to visit the incredible sight of Petra, where the sunbeams will give the walls a light pink glow.
Travel to the Roman city of Jerash, float in the Dead Sea and explore some of the greatest desert landscapes in the world.
Plus, this is another of the best places to travel in October where you can stay in a traditional Bedouin camp underneath the stars.
✅Discover the best places to stay near Petra
26. Chobe, Botswana
Average Temperature: 36°C – 21°C
Possibly one of the world’s greatest safari destinations, Botswana will both delight and captivate you. Although it’s certainly much hotter in October (the south is slightly cooler than the north), that gives you a higher chance of seeing wildlife at watering holes.
The Chobe River is a particularly popular place, as you’ll have a chance to see herds of wild elephants. Then there’s the Okavango Delta, a beautiful wetland wilderness teeming with many different species.
Plus, prices also drop at the end of the month, making it one of the best places to visit in October.
✅Discover the best places to stay in the Okavango Delta
27. Transylvania, Romania
Average Temperature: 18°C – 6°C
If you’re interested in the more underrated (and much less crowded) travel destinations in Europe, Romania should definitely be on your list.
The home of Bram Stoker’s Dracula inspirations, the country boasts one of the best Halloween celebrations in the world. You can actually spend a night partying inside Dracula’s Castle!
However, if you’re not tempted by the vampire side of Romanic, there are still plenty of towering Gothic churches and medieval towns to explore.
Romania’s autumn colours can rival that of New England, so you’ll be greeted with a rush of fiery red and gold making it one of the best places to visit in October. Make sure to pack for a cooler escape as it can certainly be chilly at this time of year.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Transylvania
28. Marrakesh, Morocco
Average Temperature: 28°C – 15°C
The cultural capital of Africa is much more bearable once the scorching heat of summer has subsided. Don’t get me wrong, you’ll still get warm temperatures, but you’ll also be able to leave your air-conditioned hotel room without feeling like you’re going to melt.
Morocco is known for its colourful markets, exotic spices and distinct pottery and ceramics. You’ll definitely be able to find some wonderful souvenirs to bring home.
But as well as material things, you’ll also find the endless Sahara Desert, towering sand dunes, the Atlas Mountains, wild beaches and authentic Bedouin camps beneath the stars.
It’s easy to fall in love with Morocco, and it’s one of the best cities to visit in October.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Marrakesh
29. New England, USA
Average Temperature: 20°C – 11°C
A favourite travel destination for the classic beauty of autumn foliage and multi-coloured leaves, New England is one of the best places to visit in October. The USA is a great place to travel in the fall. But nowhere puts on an autumn spectacle quite like New England.
From Maine to Rhode Island, the state comes alive with amber and gold. Simply taking long, relaxing walks through the crunchy foliage might be exactly what you need to prepare yourself for the busy festive season ahead!
Alternatively, hire a car and plan a fun road trip through the state, stopping at as many autumn festivals as you can find along the way.
✅Discover the best places to stay in New England
30. Hanoi, Vietnam
Average Temperature: 29°C – 22°C
You can’t beat a trip to South-East Asia! With mouth-wateringly delicious food, super cheap prices and exceptional coffees, Vietnam is definitely one of the best places to travel to in October.
There’s also plenty to keep you entertained from long, white beaches to fascinating historical monuments and Buddhist temples.
Plus, as the country was previously French territory, there are also some really beautiful colonial villages to explore.
So, whether you fancy the hectic, frenzied lifestyle of Ho Chi Minh or the chilled beach vibes of Hoi An, Vietnam is a great choice for autumn travel.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Hanoi
31. Mauritius
Average Temperature: 26°C – 20°C
For lazy beach days, hot sun, tropical island vibes, and dreamy ocean cabins, Mauritius sums up a lot of people’s holiday goals. If you’re wondering where to travel in October, you can’t go wrong with the Indian Ocean.
They’re just coming out of their winter meaning their near-perfect beaches and forest greenery are at their lushest. But Mauritius is not all lying around on beaches, however.
For the more active types, there’s also loads of natural beauty to explore as well as water sports, snorkelling and scuba diving. The Black River Gorges National Park is an absolute must-see.
Famed for its stunning waterfalls, there’s a tonne of wildlife to spot including wild boar, monkeys and plenty of colourful wild birds.
You could also hike to the top of Le Morne Brabant, visit Tamarind Falls, or go on a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, one of the many beautiful islands surrounding Mauritius.
✅Discover the best places to stay in Mauritius
Overall…
October is one of the best times to travel. You’ll find great weather, lower prices, and much fewer tourist crowds than peak summer. It’s also just a nicer atmosphere.
There is such a hiuge variety of wonderful places to travel in October from the beautiful glacier of Iceland to an African safari. I hope this article has given you plenty of inrpiration for your next adventure.
If you’re looking for more off-peak travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in Europe in autumn, the best places to visit in November, and the warmest September travel destinations in Europe.
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