October is often hailed as a traveler’s sweet spot – a month where the scorching heat of summer subsides, the overwhelming tourist crowds dwindle, and enticing shoulder-season deals emerge. With a significant portion of the globe offering pleasant conditions, deciding where to go can be exciting yet overwhelming. We’ve curated a list of exceptional destinations to inspire your October travel plans, ensuring you make the most of this fantastic travel month.
Italy: A Boot-Shaped Bounty from Cinque Terre to Puglia
Panoramic view of Castello di Grinzane and charming village nestled in Piedmont, Italy, a renowned wine region.
Italy in October is simply enchanting. Spanning from the vineyard-rich Piedmont in the north to the sun-kissed shores of Sicily, the entire country basks in the gentle embrace of autumn. The weather is wonderfully mild, shedding the intense summer heat, while hotel prices soften from their peak season highs. This creates an ideal environment for a more immersive and authentic Italian experience, where you’re more likely to share your dining experiences with locals rather than fellow tourists.
Imagine the Amalfi Coast in October – the cruise ship crowds have dissipated, a slight dip in prices becomes noticeable, and the Mediterranean sun still shines brightly, warming the sea to inviting temperatures for swimming. Tuscany bursts into a celebration of harvests, with olive and grape festivals dotting the landscape amidst breathtaking fall foliage. Even Rome, usually bustling, offers a more relaxed pace. You can savor your cappuccino at an outdoor café in a historic piazza without the usual wait. October in Italy is truly a time to savor la dolce vita at a more leisurely and affordable pace.
Burgundy, France: Golden Vines and Wine Harvest Festivities
Picturesque castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois gracefully viewed from a tranquil canal barge in Burgundy, France.
In Burgundy, October marks the culmination of the grape harvest. The frenzy of picking is over, and the precious grapes are safely in the wineries, embarking on their transformation into world-class wines. While the winemaking process is in full swing, the winemakers themselves often find a little more time to welcome visitors, offering a more intimate glimpse into their craft.
This is also when Burgundy unveils its most captivating beauty. The vineyard leaves turn into a stunning tapestry of yellow and gold, justifying its name, Côte d’Or – the golden slopes. Beyond the celebrated wines, October brings a bounty of seasonal produce to the table. Mushrooms and squashes, perfectly complementing hearty wild game dishes, grace the menus of local restaurants, creating a delightful culinary experience that reflects the autumnal charm of the region.
The Big Island, Hawaii: Perfect Weather and Tranquility
Scenic Waipio Valley lookout on the Big Island, Hawaii, showcasing lush greenery and dramatic cliffs.
For an idyllic tropical escape in October, look no further than the Big Island of Hawaii. October reigns supreme as the driest month, boasting daytime temperatures comfortably hovering around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. With families largely back in school and routines, the usual tourist rush subsides, leading to more attractive prices and a more serene atmosphere.
While October might not be prime surfing season, the calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the island’s stunning beaches. Explore volcanic landscapes, lush rainforests, and black sand beaches under the reliably sunny skies of Hawaii’s Big Island in October, a truly pleasant time to visit.
Olympic National Park, Washington: Lush Landscapes and Dramatic Sunsets
Breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean, seen from the rugged Cape Flattery trail in Olympic National Peninsula, Washington state.
Olympic National Park in Washington State presents a diverse and captivating experience in October. Across its three distinct ecosystems – the majestic Olympic Mountains, the mystical Hoh Rain Forest, and the dramatic Pacific coastline – the weather is generally agreeable.
While higher elevations might see a dusting of snow and lower areas might experience some rain, these conditions contribute to the park’s lushness. Waterfalls cascade powerfully, and the rainforest thrives in vibrant green. October is also renowned for its spectacular sunsets along the coastline, painting the sky with unforgettable hues. Embrace the crisp air and stunning natural beauty of Olympic National Park in October for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Madrid, Spain: Cultural Vibrancy and Luxury Hotel Deals
Charming old street in Madrid, Spain, showcasing traditional architecture and the inviting atmosphere of this European landmark.
Madrid in October offers a delightful blend of pleasant weather and a thriving cultural scene. The scorching summer heat gives way to milder temperatures in September and October, making it perfect for exploring the city on foot. As the weather cools, Madrid’s cultural calendar heats up, with numerous festivals, theater performances, and concerts filling the autumn months.
Adding to the allure, October provides a greater chance to secure a room at one of Madrid’s recently opened luxury hotels. From Four Seasons to Rosewood and Edition, these world-class accommodations become more accessible as the summer crowds diminish. Enjoy world-class art, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Spanish cuisine in Madrid, all while benefiting from the pleasant ambiance of October.
Austria’s Danube Valley: Wine Harvest and Lively Taverns
Picturesque Wachau Valley in Austria, showcasing vineyards and the scenic beauty of the Danube region.
October in Austria’s Danube Valley marks the tail end of the peak tourist season, but it’s arguably one of the most rewarding times to visit. The fall scenery is breathtaking, painting the landscape in warm autumnal colors. Crucially, it’s harvest time in the vineyards, bringing a unique vibrancy to the region.
The Heuriger (wine taverns) become especially lively and inviting, buzzing with locals and visitors celebrating the new vintage. You’ll have the opportunity to sample fresh, young wines in a festive atmosphere. For wine enthusiasts, October is particularly special as many of the smaller, often higher-quality Heurigers that aren’t open year-round welcome guests during the harvest season. Experience Austrian wine culture at its peak amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Danube Valley in October.
Sicily and Malta: Mediterranean Warmth and Culinary Delights
Beautiful coastline of Cefalu, Palermo, Sicily, Italy, with a charming town view from the crystal-clear water.
For a taste of the Mediterranean with lingering summer warmth, consider Sicily and Malta in October. Sicily bursts with harvest season flavors, offering an abundance of fresh olives, almonds, chestnuts, wild mushrooms, prickly pears, and carob, enriching the island’s already diverse culinary scene.
Neighboring Malta remains wonderfully warm in October, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the still-inviting sea. Consider a romantic overnight sailing trip to Gozo for a secluded island escape. Across both Sicily and Malta, you’ll find pleasant air and sea temperatures, more affordable flights and accommodations compared to the summer months, and fewer tourists, allowing for a more personal and authentic interaction with the local culture.
Croatia: Swimsuit Season Without the Summer Crowds
Aerial view of Hvar island and the stunning surrounding sea in Croatia, capturing the beauty of the Dalmatian Coast.
Visiting Croatia in the first half of October strikes an ideal balance. You’ll be greeted with pleasant weather, fewer tourists than the summer rush, and consequently, lower hotel prices. Popular destinations like Hvar Island still enjoy swimsuit-worthy weather, but the boisterous party crowds of peak season have departed, leaving a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Explore Croatia’s stunning coastline, historic cities, and charming islands in the pleasant conditions of early October, benefiting from both the lingering warmth and the shoulder-season advantages.
Greece: Pleasant Temperatures and Quieter Ancient Sites
Stunning sunset over sailboats in Naxos Town, Greece, painting the sky with vibrant colors and reflecting on the Aegean Sea.
Smart travelers know that fall is the perfect time to discover Greece. Following the summer exodus, October in Greece offers a winning combination of pleasant temperatures, quieter streets, and more budget-friendly prices. Explore iconic ancient sites like the Acropolis in Athens without the intense summer heat and throngs of visitors.
Island hopping remains a delightful option, with the Aegean Sea still warm enough for swimming in many areas. Enjoy authentic Greek hospitality, savor delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of Greece in the welcoming month of October.
Turkey: Crowd-Free Istanbul and Mild Aegean Coast
Colorful rainbow umbrellas suspended above a vibrant street filled with shops and restaurants in Galata, Istanbul, Turkey.
Turkey’s fall shoulder season, particularly October, is a truly sweet spot for travel. Istanbul and Cappadocia enjoy sunny and mild weather, ideal for exploring historical sites and stunning landscapes. Along the Aegean Coast, temperatures remain warm but comfortably so, without the sweltering heat of summer, and the sea is invitingly calm.
This is the perfect time to wander through Istanbul’s bustling bazaars and historic districts at a more relaxed pace, or to experience the magical hot air balloons of Cappadocia in comfortable conditions. Turkey in October offers a delightful blend of cultural exploration and pleasant weather.
Utah’s National Parks: Moderate Temperatures and Thinner Crowds
Majestic landscape of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Utah, showcasing the dramatic rock formations and vast open spaces.
For outdoor enthusiasts, October is one of the prime months to explore Utah’s breathtaking national parks. Temperatures become generally moderate, making hiking and outdoor activities much more enjoyable than during the intense summer heat. Crucially, the summer crowds have thinned out significantly, offering a more peaceful and intimate experience of these natural wonders.
Whether you prefer hiking through stunning canyons, scenic drives, or even a helicopter tour, Utah’s national parks in October provide an unforgettable experience in comfortable weather and with fewer fellow travelers.
Japan: Autumn Colors and Cultural Immersion in Kyoto
Serene and traditional Onsen Ryokan hot spring inn nestled in the heart of nature in Japan, offering relaxation and cultural experience.
Autumn in Kyoto, Japan, is a spectacle of color and culture. October brings cooler, crisp air and the emergence of vibrant red maple leaves, a breathtaking sight that extends into November. These fiery hues beautifully complement Kyoto’s serene Zen gardens and majestic royal villas, creating a truly picturesque experience.
Beyond the visual splendor, October provides comfortable weather for exploring Kyoto’s numerous temples, shrines, and traditional neighborhoods. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture and witness the beauty of autumn foliage in Kyoto during this wonderful travel month.
Bali: Value and Lingering Dry Season
Iconic Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Hindu temple beautifully situated on Bratan Lake in Bali, Indonesia, a famous tourist attraction.
While October falls within Bali’s rainy season, the showers are typically short-lived, often limited to a few hours in the afternoon or overnight. The upside is that October is less crowded than the peak season, resulting in more attractive hotel rates and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Enjoy Bali’s stunning beaches, lush rice paddies, and vibrant culture in October, potentially encountering some rain but benefiting from better value and fewer tourists.
Northern Thailand: Lush Greenery and Diminished Rains
Breathtaking view from Anantara Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand, showcasing lush landscapes and tranquil atmosphere.
Northern Thailand shines in October as it emerges from the green season. From mid-October to mid-December, the heavy rains subside, but the waterfalls and rivers remain full and impressive. The peak tourist season crowds and higher prices of late December and January have not yet arrived, making October an ideal window to visit.
The mountains are lush and verdant, often shrouded in captivating morning mists that add a touch of magic to the landscape. Explore Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and the stunning natural beauty of Northern Thailand in the pleasant conditions of October. (Bangkok, being a year-round destination, can also be comfortably visited with occasional, easily manageable rain showers).
Northern Chile and Argentina: Wide-Open Landscapes and Fewer Visitors
Striking red sand dunes of the Atacama Desert in Chile, showcasing the unique and otherworldly landscapes of South America.
Both the Atacama Desert in Northern Chile and the Salta region of Argentina are year-round destinations, but October and November offer a distinct advantage: fewer visitors. This means you can experience these vast, awe-inspiring landscapes with a greater sense of solitude and tranquility.
October is also an excellent month to extend your trip to Easter Island, where you’ll find fewer crowds and ideal weather conditions, enhancing your exploration of this enigmatic destination.
China: Blue Skies and Pleasant Temperatures Across Classic Itinerary
Iconic Summer Palace in Beijing, China, reflecting traditional architecture and serene beauty under clear skies.
China, a vast and diverse country, experiences varied weather patterns. However, for a classic China itinerary encompassing Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an, October is hard to surpass. Skies are typically blue and clear, and temperatures are wonderfully agreeable, eliminating the need for excessive heating or air conditioning.
Explore iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army in comfortable weather and under clear skies, making October a superb time for a classic Chinese adventure.
Oman: Perfect Desert and Mountain Weather
Elegant Dhow boat cruise in the Arabian Peninsula, Oman, sailing on blue waters against a backdrop of desert mountains.
Oman enjoys perfect weather from mid-September through October. The desert heat is no longer scorching, and the mountain regions are not yet too chilly, creating a comfortable climate throughout the country. This makes October an excellent time to explore Oman’s diverse landscapes, from desert dunes to rugged mountains and stunning coastlines.
Enjoy outdoor adventures, explore historic forts, and experience Omani culture in the pleasant weather of October.
Mongolia: Golden Eagle Festival and Cultural Spectacle
Majestic eagle hunter on horseback in Mongolia, holding a golden eagle, embodying a centuries-old Kazakh tradition.
October in Mongolia is synonymous with the unique and captivating Golden Eagle Festival. This colorful celebration in the Altai Mountains showcases the ancient Kazakh hunting tradition with golden eagles. Witness skilled eagle hunters compete in this incredible cultural event.
October offers the opportunity to experience a truly one-of-a-kind festival and immerse yourself in Mongolian culture, set against the backdrop of the stunning Altai Mountains.
Vietnam: Clear Skies Across Diverse Regions
Wonderful view of the East Gate (Hien Nhon Gate) to the Citadel and moat surrounding the Imperial City in Hue, Vietnam, a popular Asian tourist destination.
Vietnam’s diverse geography means monsoon seasons vary across regions. However, October and March stand out as the driest months to travel throughout the entire country. Fall, specifically October, offers the best weather conditions in Ho Chi Minh City and southern Vietnam, while other regions also experience favorable conditions.
Explore Vietnam’s vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and rich history under the clear skies of October, making it an excellent time for a comprehensive trip through this fascinating country.
The Seychelles: Ideal Weather and Great Value
Luxurious Maia Luxury Resort on Anse Louis Beach, Seychelles, showcasing pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
October in the Seychelles presents a perfect combination of excellent weather and attractive value. You can expect pleasant temperatures, minimal rainfall, and the added bonus of low-season rates at many resorts.
Furthermore, October is considered the best month for snorkeling and diving with magnificent whale sharks in the Seychelles’ crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a luxurious island escape with superb weather and favorable prices in October.
Other Smart Options This Month:
North America
- California Coast
- Hawaii: Maui
- Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons National Park (first half of the month)
- Mexico: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Maya (all for the second half of the month)
- Yellowstone National Park (first half of the month)
Central and South America
- Bolivia
- Brazilian Amazon
- Buenos Aires
- Colombia: Bogotá
- Costa Rica: fishing, wildlife and turtle hatching
- Patagonia (second half of the month)
- Peru
Europe
- Canal Barge Cruises
- Czech Republic
- England: Cotswolds and London
- France: Paris
- Greece: Athens
- Hungary
- Ireland: Killarney and County Kerry
- Portugal, including The Algarve
- Romania (first half of the month)
- Scotland
- Spain: Andalusia
Asia
- India: Agra, Delhi, Mumbai, and Trekking in the Himalayas
- Bhutan
- China: Yunnan Province
- Laos
- Nepal
Africa and Middle East
- Botswana
- Madagascar
- Morocco: Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains
- South Africa: Cape Town and the Winelands
Australia and Pacific
- Australia’s Great Barrier Reef
- Fiji
- French Polynesia (first half of the month)
- New Zealand: Queenstown hiking and cycling
- Papua New Guinea: trekking
