Best Places To Visit In October
Wondering where to go in October? We’ve got plenty of ideas. Just enter your holiday preferences into our bespoke destination search engine, and we’ll find the best destinations for you.
Or, if you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve selected some fantastic places for October. Experience Japan’s stunning autumn colours as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, take a scenic road trip through New England at the height of its famous fall foliage, or enjoy Malta’s warm Mediterranean sunshine long after the summer crowds have disappeared.
| Best places to visit in October | ||
|
Destination |
Av. High Temp |
Rainy Days |
| Japan | 22º | 8 |
| New England | 16º | 12 |
| Namibia | 30º | 3 |
| Florida’s Gold Coast | 28º | 16 |
| Malta | 25º | 9 |
| Western Australia | 22º | 6 |
| California Winelands | 25º | 2 |
| Aruba | 31º | 8 |
| Mexico | 23º | 12 |
| Bavaria | 14º | 8 |
Japan
- Temperature: 22º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 8
- Flight Time: 11 hours
October in Japan is a celebration of culture and beauty. The vibrant autumn foliage begins to paint the landscapes with fiery reds and golds, making it the perfect time for scenic hikes through places like Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or the trails of the Japanese Alps. Festivals are in full swing, including the iconic Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, where the streets come alive with historical parades and traditional costumes. Meanwhile, the streets of Tokyo and Osaka buzz with energy, offering a blend of modern attractions, delicious street food, and fascinating shopping. It’s an unforgettable time to immerse in both nature and culture.
New England
- Temperature: 16º
- Daylight hours: 10.5
- Rainy days: 12
- Flight Time: 7 hours 30 mins
The fall foliage in New England bursts into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, creating a stunning backdrop for any adventure. Scenic drives, like the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire, offer breathtaking views of rolling hills and misty lakes. Crisp autumn air makes it the perfect time to explore quaint towns such as Woodstock and Stowe, where harvest festivals, apple picking, and pumpkin patches are in full swing. Nestle into charming inns, enjoy a warm cup of cider, and take a scenic hayride through the countryside. It’s a magical time to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and inviting autumn atmosphere.
Namibia
- Temperature: 30º
- Daylight hours: 13
- Rainy days: 3
- Flight Time: 13-16 hours
Namibia’s landscapes glow under endless blue skies, making it the perfect time for adventure. The dry season is in full swing, drawing wildlife to Etosha National Park’s waterholes, where elephants, lions, and rhinos gather in incredible numbers. In the vast Namib Desert, the towering dunes of Sossusvlei blaze in deep orange hues at sunrise – ideal for photography and thrilling hikes. Along the Skeleton Coast, shipwrecks and dramatic waves create an eerie yet mesmerizing scene, while Swakopmund offers sandboarding and dolphin cruises. With comfortable temperatures and clear skies, it’s the ultimate time to experience Namibia’s raw beauty and untamed wilderness.
Florida’s Gold Coast
- Temperature: 28º
- Daylight hours: 11.5
- Rainy days: 16
- Flight Time: 9 hours 30 mins
Sunshine, warm breezes, and fewer crowds make October the perfect time to experience Florida’s Gold Coast. Miami’s energy is as electric as ever, with Art Deco streets buzzing in South Beach and Latin rhythms filling the air in Little Havana. Just up the coast, Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways and golden beaches invite long, lazy afternoons, while Las Olas Boulevard offers stylish dining and boutique shopping. In Palm Beach, historic mansions and lush gardens provide a touch of old-world glamour. With lively festivals, fresh seafood, and ideal weather for both beach days and outdoor adventures, the Gold Coast shines in October.
Malta
- Temperature: 25º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 9
- Flight Time: 3 hours 15 mins
Golden sunshine and warm Mediterranean waters make October a fantastic time to visit Malta. The summer crowds have faded, leaving historic cities like Valletta and Mdina even more enchanting to explore. The sea is still inviting for swimming and diving, especially around the stunning Blue Grotto and Gozo’s crystal-clear bays. Cultural events, like the Birgu Fest, illuminate the ancient streets of Vittoriosa with thousands of candles, creating a magical atmosphere. Meanwhile, wine festivals and open-air concerts add to the island’s lively charm. With pleasant weather and a rich blend of history, scenery, and local traditions, Malta feels effortlessly captivating.
Western Australia
- Temperature: 22º
- Daylight hours: 13
- Rainy days: 6
- Flight Time: 17-19 hours
October is a brilliant time to explore Western Australia, with warm, sunny days and cooler nights perfect for outdoor adventures. In the Kimberley region, the dramatic gorges and waterfalls are stunning after the dry season, offering spectacular hiking and scenic flights. Down in the southwest, the vineyards of the Margaret River region are buzzing with harvest preparations, and the coastal beauty of places like Dunsborough and Busselton beckon for beach walks and fresh seafood. Perth comes alive with outdoor festivals and alfresco dining, while Rottnest Island invites visitors to meet its famous quokkas and enjoy peaceful beaches. October offers the ideal blend of nature, culture, and adventure.
California Wine Country
- Temperature: 25º
- Daylight hours: 11
- Rainy days: 2
- Flight Time: 10 hours
October is the perfect time to experience California Wine Country, as the harvest season paints Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley in vibrant hues of gold and purple. Vineyards are full of activity, with the aroma of fresh grapes filling the air and wine-tasting rooms offering intimate experiences. Napa Valley’s rolling hills and charming towns like Yountville invite leisurely afternoons of wine and gourmet dining. Just a short drive away, Sonoma Valley’s picturesque landscapes and boutique wineries provide a more laid-back charm. Fly into San Francisco, where you can explore its iconic sights before heading out to the vineyards for an unforgettable wine-tasting getaway.
Aruba
- Temperature: 31º
- Daylight hours: 12
- Rainy days: 8
- Flight Time: 9 hours 30 mins
October in Aruba brings warm sunshine and a laid-back vibe, making it a perfect time to enjoy the island’s stunning beaches without the crowds. With its gentle trade winds, the island stays comfortable, ideal for snorkelling in crystal-clear waters at spots like Baby Beach or exploring the colourful marine life in Arashi Bay. The calm seas are perfect for windsurfing or kitesurfing, and the island’s arid landscape, dotted with cacti and natural rock formations, makes for unique hikes. Though it’s quieter, October is still a fantastic time for local festivals and cultural experiences, like celebrating Aruba’s national holiday, with parades, music, and dancing.
Mexico
- Temperature: 23º
- Daylight hours: 12
- Rainy days: 12
- Flight Time: 10 hours 30 mins
The vibrant landscapes of Mexico offer endless opportunities for exploration in October, as cooler, dry weather creates the perfect conditions for adventure. In Oaxaca, the streets come alive with celebrations leading up to Día de los Muertos, with colourful altars, parades, and a rich cultural atmosphere. Head inland to explore the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan near Mexico City, where you can climb the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. In Chiapas, the stunning Sumidero Canyon and the Mayan ruins of Palenque are surrounded by lush jungle, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. From mountains to deserts to colonial towns, Mexico offers a diverse tapestry of exploration this time of year.
Bavaria
- Temperature: 14º
- Daylight hours: 10
- Rainy days: 8
- Flight Time: 1 hours 45 mins
As autumn settles over Bavaria, the region is transformed into a colourful landscape of golden leaves and crisp air, perfect for outdoor adventures. The famous Oktoberfest in Munich draws crowds from around the world, where beer gardens and lively festivities take centre stage. Beyond the city, the fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenzollern seem even more magical framed by the changing colours of the trees. The countryside invites scenic drives through charming villages like Garmisch-Partenkirchen, where alpine views and traditional Bavarian architecture create a picturesque backdrop. With harvest season in full swing, October is also a fantastic time to sample local dishes and fresh apple cider.
Still Can’t Find Your Perfect Place To Visit In October?
Not sure where to go in October? We’ve got it sorted! Tweaking your travel dates can open up an exciting mix of destinations. Explore the links below to find the best places to visit throughout the year. Or, for more personalised recommendations, try our destination finder at the top of the page!