12 of the best destinations for an October getaway
With traditional European Summer coming to a close, you have two options: dwell on your post-summer blues or… grab the opportunity for shoulder season travel with both hands. If you’re ideal getaway includes minimal crowds, slightly cooler temperatures and affordable accommodation, October is your month!
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1. Portugal
The Algarve is the driest and hottest region in Portugal, making it an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the sun and the beach. October is a prime month to visit Lisbon as the weather is still stable enough to tour the city in summer clothes. Porto is a great destination for wine lovers, and October is the perfect time to visit as it is the grape harvest season – what a treat!
Fly to: Lisbon, Porto or Faro
2. Sicily, Italy
Good food, stunning beaches, charming towns and the list goes on for reasons to visit Sicily. Let’s start with the Egadi Islands this time, with crystal turquoise water that will be sure to steal your heart – it’s unthinkable to skip this incredible experience!
If you’re looking for a Caribbean-like destination in Europe, you need to check out San Vito Lo Capo! While it’s not exactly a hidden-gem on the island in July-August, visiting in October will give it that feeling! Blessed with natural white sands, turquoise waters and overlooked by a mountain, you will feel like you’re on a Caribbean Island – but really you’re in Southern Europe in October!
Explore the Zingaro Nature Reserve, a pristine coastal wilderness area just a short drive from San Vito Lo Capo. This natural gem boasts hiking trails that lead to secluded coves and beaches.
3. Southern Germany
Southern Germany is one of the most underrated European destinations. Whilst temperatures won’t be the hottest, October is a great time to explore the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Having lived in Baden-Württemberg myself for almost 2 years, I honestly felt I’d found heaven on earth!
Freiburg is beautiful city with a stunning old town, perfectly situated on the edge of the Black Forest, with views of the Swiss and French Alps from Shauinsland. Freiburg is a perfect place to base yourself for exploring parts of the Black Forest as the leaves change colour with the season, visiting Lake Constance and popping over the border to Basel, Switzerland or Strasbourg, France.
Fly to: Munich or Memmingen/ Basel Freiburg Mulhouse
4. Malta
An October getaway in Malta will have everyone envious of you! Valetta’s old town has a unique charm you can’t miss! The islands of Comino and Gozo are also a lot less crowded in October! You’ll be sure to have a more relaxing time and enjoy the blue lagoon to the fullest.
Head to the old fortified town of Mdina and admire the beauty of its narrow streets for a Maltese experience like no other. Explore the ancient catacombs in Rabat, just outside Mdina. These underground chambers offer a glimpse into Malta’s history and are often less crowded than other attractions.
Fly to: Malta
5. Croatia
The Adriatic Coast of Croatia is ideal for an October Getaway. You’ll get the most out of all it has to offer by avoiding the crowds and opting for a shoulder season trip. Explore Pag Island’s breathtaking lunar landscape and stunning crystal clear beaches. Zadar’s historic old town will also have you in awe.
If time permits, follow the coast down to Šibinek, Trogir, Split and Dubrovnik, with some island hopping in between. Check out: 7 Day Croatia Itinerary – Experience the Charm of the Adriatic Coast and Croatia’s Best Kept Secret: Brač Island for more inspiration.
Fly to: Zadar, Split or Dubrovnik
6. Greek Islands
You’ll be smug as can be when you’re island hop in Greece with comfortable temperatures, minimal lining up for ferries and bargain hotel deals. Other than late September, I can’t think of a better time to island hop in Greece than October! You can even visit the most popular islands such as Santorini and Mykonos without the hustle and bustle! Don’t miss out on the gems: Ios, Crete, Hydra, Milos and Zakynthos.
Fly to: the islands directly or Athens and get ferries.
7. Northern Morocco
Torn between an African and Mediterranean destination? Look no further than Morocco’s stunning mediterranean coast. You’ll be spoilt for choice on beaches, from golden sandy beaches that stretch for miles in Saïdïa, to beautiful coves in Nador! Morocco’s charming blue Chefchauen is also located in Northern Morocco.
8. Cyprus
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Cyprus has something for everyone. Cyprus is located in the Middle East, specifically in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea which means you’ll be getting a great deal of sunshine here compared to European destinations!
Located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, Ayia Napa‘s Cape Greco National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. The Akamas Peninsula National Park is another must-visit destination, with its rugged natural landscape, beaches, and hiking trails.
Fly to: Paphos or Lanarca, Cyprus
9. Canary Islands
Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura are equally hot in October, all with daytime temperatures averaging in the mid-20s. Tenerife and La Palma are slightly cooler, with daytime temperatures averaging around 23°C. Whether you’re looking for volcanic landscapes, unique gorges, mountains or beautiful beaches – the canary islands are ones to consider for your October getaway!
10. Egypt
October is the best month to visit Egypt, with warm daytime temperatures ranging from 20-30°C, lots of sunshine, and cooler evenings. It’s far more pleasant than the sweltering summer months of May to August which can exceed 40°C. October is also a great time to take a Nile cruise, explore ancient pyramids and temples, and visit cultural sites.
Fly to: Cairo
Wild Cards...
11. Tulum, Mexico
Have the best shoulder season ever in Mexico! Explore the beautiful Riviera Maya and treat yourself to a paradise that boasts lush jungles, turquoise cenotes and miles of white sand that meets the Caribbean Sea! Check out: Tulum: Unmissable Things To Do.
Isla Holbox, Cozumel and Isla Mujeres are gems to add to the itinerary if you’re looking for an affordable and low-key tropical getaway in October!
Fly to: Cancún
12. Vietnam
An October getaway in South East Asia? Yes, please! Hanoi is one of the cheapest destinations to fly to in South East Asia from Europe! October is a great time to visit Northern Vietnam, with mild temperatures and comfortable humidity levels. It’s also a great time to explore the local culture and cuisine in Hanoi, as well as the stunning landscapes of the region such as Sapa Valley and Ninh Binh.
Fancy visiting a natural world wonder? Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO world heritage site and natural beauty in Vietnam. Hanoi‘s streets are a brilliant cultural experience!
Fly to: Hanoi
Final Words
With these 12 destinations, post-summer blues will seem like a distant memory.
When booking your trip, remember…
1. Select the ‘everywhere’ option on skyscanner for your destination to see where you can go on your budget.
2. Compare all options, whether it’s package holidays or you’re organising your own trip.
3. Flying midweek is usually more affordable than other days.
4. Check Google Flights to find out the best time to book for your dates and destinations!
5. Set price alerts and pounce at the right price.
Read: How to afford more travel in 2023 and Go-To Websites For a Practical & Budget Friendly Trip for more travel tips.
An October getaway is just around the corner! Where will you go? Let me know in the comments below!
