Sep 18, 2023
Here’s a bold statement: October is a much better time to visit popular European destinations than the high summer season. Let us explain why.
First of all: the weather. Instead of the sweltering 40°C and above, it’s not burning hot, but still comfortably warm. Perfectly fine for exploring new destinations on your October vacation in comfort — no crowds of tourists, but most seasonal businesses still work.
Like the temperatures, flights, accommodations, and restaurant prices finally get reasonable, while the cultural life gets way more intense.
While planning your vacation in October, picking a destination might be a bit challenging. There’s a variety of harvest-season festivals and cosy autumnal activities all over Europe. After reading this post, you even might wonder why travelling in October is considered less popular!
We’ve collected all kinds of worthy October destinations — some are pretty common, and others are completely off the beaten track and away from Europe.
Whether you’re a sun-seeker or a sweater-weather person, you’ll find your perfect October holiday destination listed here.
Over the last decade, Croatia has become the new Greece.
Tourists have been flocking to the country for its breathtaking beaches, the distinctive old town in the capital of Dubrovnik, exceptional cuisine, and wine.
Croatia was once known as the hidden jewel of Europe — a magical place with warm weather, reasonable prices, and few tourists.
Choose it as your October vacation destination and you’ll have a chance to experience this gem with fewer crowds and more affordable prices.
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Málaga is a popular destination for sun-seekers from across Europe. But as the summer ends and October approaches, the beaches get emptier and calmer, leaving you to chill and sunbathe in the still warm sun.
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As the scorching sun and bustling crowds depart Malta, its capital, Valletta, becomes a must-visit October holiday destination for enthusiasts of architecture and gastronomy.
Enjoy the warmth, explore the historic streets of Valletta’s old town (a UNESCO World Heritage site), stroll along the picturesque waterfront, and treat yourself to a delicious Maltese meal like stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew) or pastizzi (savoury pastry).
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Apart from its wines and Cristiano Ronaldo, the charming Madeira region of Portugal is also known for a mild climate thanks to the Sahara desert winds that reach its coasts.
Shop, dine, hike, or dare to swim in the ocean — Madeira has a variety of activities for your October vacation.
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Located at the far southeast corner of the Mediterranean, this charming island has something for everyone to enjoy — rich heritage, beautiful beaches, warm sea, mouthwatering cuisine, and great wine.
What makes Cyprus an even more remarkable place for an October holiday is its sultry feel of a Middle-Eastern destination.
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They’re reasonably priced. They’re exciting and rich in experience. Below you can find the best cheap places to visit in October.
Tunisia has a rich historical and cultural heritage, welcoming locals, and luxurious resorts. And yet, it’s one of the most affordable destinations to visit in October.
Sunbathe, explore the narrow streets of the old towns, and ride a camel through the Sahara desert — all in balmy weather conditions and at a reasonable cost.
Add delicious traditional dishes like couscous, tagine, and fresh seafood — and you’ll have a perfect October getaway.
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Riga, the charming capital of the Baltic country of Latvia, is a fantastic October holiday destination.
The weather is perfectly cool and crisp to explore Riga’s picturesque Old Town, tranquil parks, and the embankment of the Daugava River — all while enjoying the stunning autumn foliage.
Given Riga’s location, you might also enjoy travelling to the scenic coast of Jurmala (30 mins away from the city centre) — or even take day trips to Latvia’s neighbouring Estonia or Lithuania.
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Portugal is well-known as a warm, vibrant, yet affordable October destination. The Algarve coast has some of the most picturesque beaches in Portugal, fresh seafood, spectacular views and friendly locals.
If you come to the Algarve in summer, you might be overwhelmed with prices, scorching sun, and temperatures. Conversely, warm October might be the best time to visit this place.
Though you may have less of a choice due to the seasonality of many businesses, the increased space and affordability are a more than fair trade-off.
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Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a compact yet charming city with a mediaeval old town and the iconic Bratislava Castle set on the beautiful Danube River. It’s often more budget-friendly than Vienna or Budapest and has plenty to do!
While planning your holiday in October, don’t forget to check out Bratislava Jazz Days, tour the local sights, and take a river cruise on the Danube.
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Whatever you’re up to, Georgia has something for you — from affordable yet delicious wines and cuisine to breathtaking views of the Caucasus mountains. October may be the best time to spend your holiday in Georgia on a budget — and to experience the famous hospitality of the locals during the traditional harvest festivals.
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Going to a festival is arguably one of the best things to do in Europe in October. There are harvest festivals, food festivals, music festivals, and many more.
Remember to plan your October vacation and time it appropriately. For example, one of the most famous European events, the German Oktoberfest, begins in September and continues through the first week of October.
Every October, millions of wine lovers flock to Le Clos Montmartre, a secret vineyard in the heart of Paris, for its annual festival. Enjoy wine, discover the world-famous French cuisine, and watch the sunset from the top of Montmartre Hill, providing an unbeatable view of the city.
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Unlike the crowded Oktoberfest, the Poperinge Beer Festival is a much cosier event in a charming little town famous for growing hops.
This mid-autumn festival has put Poperinge on the map of the best places to visit in October.
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October in Germany is quite a festival season. Once the Oktoberfest is over, head to Berlin to see the city from a new perspective. All of the city’s major attractions are lit against the night sky for nine nights with illumination and 3D-animated art. Local and international artists showcase their work on the Brandenburg Gate, Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin Cathedral, and other iconic spots.
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Held in Sant Sadurni dÁnoia, just outside Barcelona, the Cavatast Cava Festival is a must-visit for anyone who loves Cava sparkling wine and Catalan food.
This vibrant little town is at the heart of Spain’s Cava production, and the Cava Festival celebrates this region’s rich wine culture. Here, you can indulge yourself with an array of exquisite Cavas, explore Catalonia’s historic wineries, and witness the artistry of winemaking firsthand.
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Wherever you decide to head to, an underrated part of what makes a holiday destination great is access to reliable, convenient and affordable transport options.
Bolt ride-hailing services — and other mobility options, depending on the city — are available in +500 cities and more than 45 countries across Europe, Africa, Western Asia and Latin America.
Convenient and affordable rides are all in one app — usually just after you leave the airport! To make sure you’re always on time for flights and tours, you can schedule a ride with Bolt up to 72 hours in advance.
Learn how to make your travels more sustainable and download the Bolt app now.
