Making you ready to bid the summer a farewell, October boasts the rich tapestry of amber and gold that unfolds as autumn dances in. It has a perfectly crispy and comfortable atmosphere. Whether you are looking for the best time to explore famous destinations or the best month to enjoy outdoor activities without extreme heat or cold, the one and only answer is October! Besides letting you experience a magical atmosphere, there are some significant reasons to choose October as your travelling month. You are going to get fewer crowds as the summer vacations are gone and you could also find lower accommodation rates due to the off-peak season. Plus, October is a month of harvest in many countries, giving you an incredible opportunity to explore local delicacies. If you are an adventure seeker, October is best for you, providing you with pleasant weather, whether you go biking, hiking or any other outdoor activity.
Let’s not dawdle any longer, this travel guide takes you to the best destinations to visit in October
1. Japan – Autumn foliage wonderland
October is the peak season for autumn foliage in Japan. The leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, especially in places like Kyoto and Nikko. You can hike in Oku-Nikko, which is a must-see spot in the Kanto area to admire nature's beauty at its best, is sure to leave you spellbound. This area comes among the best destinations to visit in October for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Plus, the weather is mild and perfect for exploring temples and shrines, specifically at Kyoto and Nara. Here, you can also pay attention to some of the most vibrant festivals, celebrating the harvest. Takayama Autumn Festival is a particularly amazing affair to look at. This is the best way to soak local culture. You can also enjoy even a few hot springs here. If you’re in search of the best destinations to visit in October, Japan is one of the most recommended places on any travel guide.
2. Greece (Santorini & Mykonos) – Post summer serenity
After the peak summer madness, these gorgeous Greek islands are quieter, the weather is still warm, and the sunsets are magical. Do you like hiking? Yes, a hike from Fira to Oia is a must for you. Both are towns in Santorini adorned with white-washed buildings and blue domes. This hike is also known as the Caldera Walking Tour and offers pleasant, diverse and more than satisfying views. Something which you must not miss in Greece is wine tasting. Go wine tasting on the backdrop of lush green surroundings at one of the wineries scattered all over Greece.
What's more? Greece is no less than a heaven for beach lovers and one of the best countries to visit in October. With so many beaches, it lets you sunbathe and swim hand in hand. Plus, it also provides you with plenty of water sports enough to get your adrenaline pumping! Don't forget to bookmark Greece if you are seeking October travel destinations. There is nothing better than Greece to soak Mediterranean beauty without the crowds!
3. Italy (Tuscany) – Grape harvest & golden countryside
Tuscany in October is a dream for wine lovers and nature admirers. The grape harvest is in full swing, the rolling hills look golden, and the weather is cool and pleasant. It’s perfect for sipping wine in charming hilltop towns like Siena or Montepulciano. Chianti and Brunello wines are a must to sip. Are you interested in participating in local cultural activities? Yes, go for truffle hunting tours and indulge in the thrilling experience of finding truffles amidst green forests with the help of trained dogs. What are truffles? These are gourmet delicacies in Tuscany, which are fungi that grow underground. Unwind yourself at one of the hot springs in Saturnia or Bagno Vignoni, most ideal for the cooler Tuscany weather in October. You can also pay a visit to Siena, letting you admire its rich medieval architecture and also giving you an amazing opportunity to explore the surrounding countryside showcasing the vibrant fall colours. If you hope to find cool places to visit in October, Italy (Tuscany) is among the most recommended places to go.
4. Morocco (Marrakech & Sahara Desert) – Exotic & cooler adventures
The searing summer heat is long gone, making October perfect for exploring the colourful souks of Marrakech. Do you love trekking? October weather in Morocco is picture-perfect for trekking activities with moderate temperatures and less crowded trails. Go hiking in the Atlas Mountains and absorb the incredible vistas and traditional villages. Exploring the world's largest desert, the Sahara is among the must do things in Morocco in October. The weather is pleasant making the camel nights more comfortable. Plus, you can also go for overnight camping and enjoy a buffet dinner under the celestial canopy. This one regularly features among the best places to visit in October list on travel guides. You can also attend local festivals like the Moulay Idriss Festival, a great option for cultural immersion.
5. New Zealand (South Island) – Spring awakening
October is springtime in New Zealand! The South Island’s snow-capped peaks, lush green landscapes, and blooming flowers make it a nature lover’s paradise. You’ll also get to experience fewer crowds at iconic spots like Queenstown and Fiordland. At Fiordland National Park, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of waterfalls and towering clips. Go for a scenic cruise through the stunning fjord, the best part is, that fewer crowds lead to a more tranquil environment. Give a treat to your eyes at Christchurch where you can gaze at blooming tulips and cherry blossoms. It's one of the best destinations to visit in October with family, full of picnic spots. Whether you are an animal lover or looking for an unparalleled experience, Kaikoura is a must-visit. October marks the beginning of whale watching season and you get an incredible chance to spot sperm whales and dolphins in their natural habitat at Kaikoura. Looking for October travel destinations, just don't forget to bookmark New Zealand(South Island).
6. Canada (Quebec & Ontario) – Fall foliage extravaganza
Canada in October is a fall lover’s dream. The maple trees explode in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, especially in regions like Quebec and Ontario. In Ontario, paying a visit to iconic Niagara Falls is a must, offering you magnificent views throughout the year. But as you visit this in October, you can indulge in the rich tapestry of fiery hues along the trails. You can also go for a cider tasting at one of the apple orchards or enjoy apple picking. As you come to Quebec, the scenic gondola ride in Mont-Tremblant National Park is worth visiting. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the far-reaching sights of the park's forests, lakes, and mountains from a higher elevation. It's so captivating in October as the autumn foliage is vibrant. Undoubtedly, Canada is among the best destinations to visit in October. October is also a fantastic time to explore Quebec City’s Old Town and Citadelle of Quebec where you can admire their charming architecture, boutiques, and cafes. It also gives an insight into Canada’s cultural and military history. Visiting these places is no less than a paradise for an architectural enthusiast or a history buff.
7. Spain (Andalusia)– Mild & magnificent
Andalusia’s scorching summer heat mellows into perfect autumn warmth in October, making Spain one of the best destinations to visit in October. It’s a great time to visit Seville, Granada, and Córdoba, where you can marvel at Moorish architecture and indulge in tapas without the intense summer sun. What are tapas? These are appetizers in Spanish cuisine which includes a variety of small Explore the Granada, if you love admiring intricate architecture or you are a history buff go to Córdoba and explore the Mezquita (a mosque-cathedral), known for its rich history. You can also pay a visit to one of the world's largest cathedrals in Seville and enjoy the panoramic views from its bell tower. Plus, you can sample sherry wines and visit a traditional flamenco show, a key feature of Spain. Simply, Spain is among the best places to visit in October.