Where to travel in October and why...

As autumn sets in at home and the evenings draw in, October is the perfect month to escape for a well-deserved holiday. Temperatures in many parts of Europe are still wonderfully warm, long sunny days are common, and with the summer crowds gone, you can enjoy destinations at a slower pace. It is also a brilliant time to find good value flights and accommodation, making October one of the most rewarding months of the year for travel.

Whether you are after golden beaches, historic city breaks or something more exotic and adventurous, here are some of the best places to visit in October and why they are worth considering.

European sunshine without the summer crowds

Malta

Southern Europe still enjoys plenty of sunshine in October, with temperatures often in the mid to high twenties. It is warm enough for the beach yet comfortable for exploring.

Cyprus is one of the warmest spots in Europe at this time of year. With average highs of 26°C and around nine hours of sunshine a day, it is ideal if you want both beach time and culture. The sea stays warm well into autumn, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. Paphos and Limassol are favourites for their mix of history, vibrant waterfronts and Mediterranean dining. The island’s ancient ruins, pretty villages and coastal walks mean there is something for everyone.

The Greek Islands are another superb choice. Kos stays around 25°C in October with eight to nine hours of sunshine, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to unwind. You can explore ancient ruins, wander through whitewashed villages, or simply soak up the sun by the sea. Crete is also a fantastic option, offering warm days, charming towns like Chania, and the chance to hike the Samaria Gorge before winter sets in. Rhodes has its UNESCO-listed Old Town to explore, as well as beautiful sandy beaches such as those at Lindos.

Malta and Gozo combine sunshine with fascinating history. Valletta’s baroque streets, waterfront promenade, and impressive cathedral are all within easy reach. Over on Gozo you will find rugged coastlines, diving and cycling trails. With temperatures in the mid-twenties, the islands are perfect for both relaxation and adventure. October also brings the Notte Bianca arts festival in Valletta, filling the capital with music, exhibitions and performances.

Sicily and Sardinia are two of Italy’s gems for autumn travel. Sicily’s summer crowds have gone and the weather is much more pleasant for exploring Taormina, climbing Mount Etna or relaxing on the beaches. With highs of 23°C and eight hours of sunshine a day, October is also grape harvest time in Sicily, making it a superb month for food and wine lovers. Sardinia offers clear seas, water sports and charming towns like Alghero, all without the peak-season bustle.

Seville in Spain is ideal if you prefer a city break with guaranteed warmth. October temperatures hover around 27°C, making it lovely for sightseeing without the scorching heat of summer. You can wander through the Real Alcázar, admire the cathedral and Giralda Tower, and enjoy tapas bars late into the evening. It is also a great base for exploring Andalucia, with day trips to the Costa de la Luz where the beaches are quiet and golden.

For walkers and nature lovers, Madeira is lush, green and still warm at 24°C. The island’s dramatic scenery and botanical gardens are at their best in autumn and the famous levada walks are far more comfortable when the heat is milder.

Cultural adventures close to home

Rome

If you're looking for a mix of sunshine and culture, October has plenty to offer.

Rome is at its most charming in October. The weather is still warm but no longer oppressive, making it perfect for strolling between the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City. Autumn colours fill the piazzas, and there are fewer queues at popular attractions. The city’s trattorias and wine bars are a delight at this time of year.

Marrakech in Morocco is another brilliant option. Just a short flight from the UK, it offers sunny, dry days of around 28°C in October. It is a wonderful time to explore the vibrant souks, the Jardin Majorelle, and the city’s palaces. With cooler evenings, you can enjoy rooftop dining and traditional music without the extreme heat of summer. Marrakech also makes a great starting point for trips to the Atlas Mountains or coastal towns such as Essaouira.

Turkey’s Aegean and Turquoise coasts are warm and welcoming in October, with highs of 25 to 26°C and nine hours of sunshine daily. Resorts such as Fethiye and Kalkan are quieter, making it easier to enjoy the beaches, explore ancient ruins or go sailing. The sea is still warm for swimming and local tavernas serve some of the freshest and tastiest food.

Exotic escapes for guaranteed heat

The Gambia

If you are dreaming of tropical warmth or long-haul adventures, October has plenty to tempt you.

Mauritius in the Indian Ocean is stunning at this time of year. With highs of 27°C, warm seas and clear skies, it is perfect for snorkelling, diving and relaxing on paradise beaches. October is also a lovely month for exploring the island’s wildlife and nature reserves such as Black River Gorges National Park.

The Maldives also deliver the ultimate October escape. With crystal-clear lagoons, overwater villas, and average temperatures of 28°C, it's the dream destination for couples or anyone looking to completely unwind.

The Caribbean offers warmth, white-sand beaches and excellent value in October. While it's still the tail end of the hurricane season, many southern islands - such as Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao - lie outside the belt and remain sunny and calm. These islands are perfect for diving, snorkelling, and enjoying relaxed island life.

The Gambia in West Africa is another affordable choice, with highs of 32°C and beautiful uncrowded beaches. It is just a six-hour flight from the UK and offers great-value hotels and a warm welcome.

South Africa is a superb option for those wanting something different. October is springtime, bringing pleasant temperatures of 22 to 28°C. Cape Town is stunning at this time of year, with Table Mountain surrounded by wildflowers. It is also a great month for visiting the Winelands or heading on safari in Kruger National Park.

Dubai guarantees heat, with temperatures around 36°C and ten hours of sunshine daily. October is a great month to enjoy luxury hotels, shopping and attractions such as waterparks and desert safaris. You can also combine it with nearby Abu Dhabi for culture and adventure.

Festivals and events in October

October is also a month rich in festivals. Paris hosts Nuit Blanche, an all-night arts celebration; Munich is home to Oktoberfest, the world’s most famous beer festival; Italy celebrates the Alba White Truffle Festival, a gourmet highlight; while Greece commemorates Ochi Day with parades and events nationwide, and in Portugal, the Fátima Pilgrimage draws thousands of visitors. These cultural events can add an extra dimension to your October travels.

Plan your October escape

October is one of the most rewarding months to travel. You can enjoy warm sunshine, better value and a choice of destinations ranging from nearby Mediterranean islands to far-flung tropical escapes. Whether you want a quick city break, a cultural adventure or a luxury holiday by the beach, October has something to suit every traveller.

If you are ready to swap autumn jumpers for sunglasses and sunshine, let me take care of the details. I will be with you every step of the way to make your October holiday perfect.