October is one of the most rewarding months for planning a trip. The weather is often just right in many parts of the world, making it comfortable to explore both cities and natural landscapes.
In many destinations, summer crowds have gone home, so you can enjoy a more relaxed travel experience. This also means shorter lines, quieter streets, and better chances to book popular attractions without the rush.
For those who love warm weather, sunny beaches, and tropical islands are still perfect for swimming and relaxing. If you prefer cooler temperatures, October offers some of the most stunning autumn foliage, especially in areas known for their fall colors.
From the vibrant leaves of New England in the USA to the romantic charm of European cities, there is something for every kind of traveler.
In this guide, we will look at the best places to travel in October in the USA, the best places to travel in Europe in October, and a few other beautiful destinations around the world.
Why October is a Great Month for Travel
- Mild weather in many regions
Comfortable temperatures make sightseeing and outdoor activities enjoyable without extreme heat or cold. - Lighter packing
You can bring fewer heavy clothes compared to winter travel and still stay comfortable. - Shoulder season savings
Flights and accommodation are often cheaper than during peak summer, giving you better value for money. - Fewer crowds
Popular attractions are less busy, making it easier to enjoy landmarks, museums, and tours. - Seasonal events and festivals
- Oktoberfest in Germany
- Harvest festivals in the United States
- Food and cultural fairs in many countries
- Oktoberfest in Germany
- Great for all types of travelers
- Couples can enjoy romantic destinations without the hustle and bustle
- Solo travelers can explore in a relaxed, safe atmosphere
- Families can enjoy pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities
- Couples can enjoy romantic destinations without the hustle and bustle
Best Places to Travel in October – USA
New England – Fall Foliage Paradise
My highlights: October is when New England shows off its most colorful side. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine turn into a breathtaking mix of red, orange, and gold leaves.
Scenic drives, like the Kancamagus Highway, and hiking trails through state parks make it a dream for nature lovers and photographers.
📍 Location: Northeastern United States
Vibe: Peaceful, cozy, and full of small-town charm
Temperature: Around 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C), perfect for layering and outdoor walks
Asheville, North Carolina
My highlights: The Blue Ridge Parkway is at peak color in October, and Asheville is the perfect base to explore it.
The city is known for its thriving art and craft scene, farm-to-table dining, and cozy mountain cabins. It is also close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park for hiking adventures.
📍 Location: Western North Carolina, in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Vibe: Artistic, nature-focused, and welcoming
Temperature: Around 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C), cool mornings with pleasant afternoons
Hawaii – Warm Weather Escape
My highlights: Hawaii is perfect if you want to swap autumn leaves for sunny beaches. You can surf, snorkel, explore volcanoes, or simply relax by the ocean.
October also brings smaller crowds and off-peak airfare deals, which makes it easier to enjoy popular spots like Waikiki and Maui without long waits.
📍 Location: Central Pacific Ocean, about 2,500 miles from the U.S. mainland
Vibe: Tropical, relaxing, and adventurous
Temperature: Around 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), ideal for beach days and water sports
Napa Valley, California – Romantic Wine Country
My highlights: October is harvest season in Napa Valley, which means vineyards are buzzing with activity.
Couples can enjoy wine tasting tours, scenic hot air balloon rides, and candlelit dinners. Luxury lodges and spa retreats make it an indulgent escape for two.
📍 Location: Northern California, about an hour’s drive from San Francisco
Vibe: Romantic, sophisticated, and indulgent
Temperature: Around 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C), warm afternoons and cooler evenings
Savannah, Georgia – Affordable and Charming
My highlights: Savannah blends history, charm, and a bit of spooky fun. October brings mild weather, perfect for walking tours through historic districts.
The city is famous for its haunted tours, especially around Halloween. With its oak-lined streets, cozy cafes, and budget-friendly stays, it is a great choice for travelers looking for value.
📍 Location: Southeastern Georgia, near the Atlantic coast
Vibe: Historic, romantic, and a little mysterious
Temperature: Around 60°F to 78°F (15°C to 26°C), comfortable for sightseeing day and night
Best Places to Travel in October – Europe
Tuscany, Italy – Wine and Countryside Beauty
My highlights: October in Tuscany is harvest season, which means fresh grapes, olives, and seasonal food festivals. Vineyards are in full swing, offering wine tours and tastings.
The rolling hills are dotted with charming villages, and the mild weather makes it easy to explore Florence, Siena, and Pisa without the summer rush.
📍 Location: Central Italy, stretching from the Tyrrhenian coast to the Apennine Mountains
Vibe: Rustic, romantic, and full of authentic Italian charm
Temperature: Around 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C), comfortable for both sightseeing and countryside drives
Paris, France – Romantic Without the Crowds
My highlights: October is a magical time to visit Paris. The summer crowds have thinned, so you can enjoy landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre with shorter lines.
Hotel rates are often lower, and the city hosts cultural events like the Nuit Blanche art festival. Strolling along the Seine with autumn leaves falling around you feels like a scene from a film.
📍 Location: Northern France, along the River Seine
Vibe: Romantic, artistic, and elegant
Temperature: Around 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C), cool but perfect for walking tours
Santorini, Greece – Warm Weather and Quiet Streets
My highlights: Santorini in October offers warm sunshine without the heavy summer tourist crowds.
You can watch famous sunsets from Oia, explore whitewashed villages, and relax on volcanic beaches. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and local tavernas are open but not packed.
📍 Location: A Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea
Vibe: Relaxed, scenic, and romantic
Temperature: Around 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), pleasant for both beach days and sightseeing
Munich, Germany – Oktoberfest Fun
My highlights: Munich in early October is all about Oktoberfest, one of the world’s most famous festivals.
The city fills with lively beer tents, traditional Bavarian music, and hearty German food. Beyond the festival, you can explore historic buildings, museums, and nearby castles. Even after Oktoberfest ends, Munich is still beautiful in autumn.
📍 Location: Southern Germany, in the state of Bavaria
Vibe: Festive, cultural, and welcoming
Temperature: Around 45°F to 60°F (7°C to 16°C), cool enough for a jacket but comfortable for outdoor events
Best International Destinations in October
Bali, Indonesia – Tropical Warmth Before Peak Season
My highlights: Bali in October offers sunny days and fewer tourists before the busy season begins.
It is perfect for relaxing on beaches like Seminyak and Nusa Dua, exploring rice terraces in Ubud, and visiting temples such as Tanah Lot.
The weather is warm, and the island has a vibrant cultural scene with traditional dance shows and markets.
📍 Location: An island in Indonesia, located in Southeast Asia
Vibe: Tropical, relaxing, and culturally rich
Temperature: Around 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C), ideal for both the beach and sightseeing
Japan – Kyoto’s Autumn Colors
My highlights: October is the start of Kyoto’s beautiful autumn season. Early maple leaves begin to turn red and gold, adding color to the city’s famous temples and gardens.
You can enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, visit historic wooden streets in Gion, and take peaceful walks through bamboo forests.
📍 Location: Central Japan, in the Kansai region
Vibe: Traditional, serene, and picturesque
Temperature: Around 55°F to 70°F (13°C to 21°C), pleasant for outdoor sightseeing
Morocco – Warm Days, Cool Nights
My highlights: October in Morocco offers warm, sunny days and cooler nights, making it perfect for exploring Marrakech’s colorful souks and historic palaces. You can also take trips into the Sahara Desert for camel rides and stargazing under clear skies.
📍 Location: North Africa, along the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
Vibe: Exotic, vibrant, and full of cultural charm
Temperature: Around 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), comfortable for both city visits and desert adventures
South Africa – Safari Season
My highlights: October is an excellent month for wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park. The weather is dry, so animals gather near waterholes, making it easier to spot elephants, lions, and giraffes.
You can also explore Cape Town’s beaches and the scenic Garden Route.
📍 Location: Southern tip of Africa
Vibe: Adventurous, wild, and scenic
Temperature: Around 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C), warm days and cooler evenings
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October Travel Tips
Book Early for Fall Hotspots
Popular places like New England in the USA or Kyoto in Japan can still get busy in October. Book flights, hotels, and tours a few months in advance to get the best options.
Pack Layers
Weather can change quickly in October. Bring a light shirt, a sweater, and a jacket so you can be comfortable from cool mornings to warm afternoons.
Check Local Festivals and Events
Many destinations have food fairs, harvest celebrations, or cultural parades in October. Plan your trip to enjoy these experiences, but also check for any closures or reduced hours.
Take Advantage of Shoulder Season Deals
October means lower prices for flights and hotels. Look for package deals or travel midweek for extra savings.
Choose Destinations That Fit Your Weather Preference
If you love warmth, go to Hawaii, Santorini, or Bali. For cooler autumn vibes, head to Vermont, Paris, or Munich.
Make the Most of Outdoor Activities
October is perfect for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives. Research trails and routes in advance to enjoy the best views of the season.
Travel Light but Smart
A comfortable pair of walking shoes, a small umbrella, and a reusable water bottle will make sightseeing much easier.
Conclusion
October is the most versatile month to travel. You can enjoy autumn days surrounded by colorful leaves, relax on warm beaches without the summer crowds or participate in cultural festivals around the world. The weather is mild in many places and the lower prices make it a smart choice for short getaways and long trips.
Whether you are traveling as a couple looking for romance, a family wanting fun and comfort or a solo traveler seeking peaceful exploration, there is a destination in October for you. The combination of beauty, affordability and cultural experiences makes it a month to put in your travel calendar.
If you have an October destination or a favorite trip from this time of year, comment below or on social media. Your experience might inspire another traveler to pack their bags and make the most of this travel season.
FAQs
1. Where can I go for warm weather in October?
Bali, Hawaii and Santorini are warm and sunny in October so perfect for beach lovers and sun worshippers.
2. Where can I see fall foliage in October?
New England in the USA (Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine) and Kyoto, Japan start to show early maple foliage in October.
3. Where are the budget destinations in October?
Savannah, Georgia has affordable accommodations and charming historic streets. Parts of Eastern Europe (Budapest) have cost effective travel options and rich culture.
4. Is October a good time to visit Europe?
Yes, October is a great time to visit Europe. Weather is mild, crowds are smaller and many destinations have lower prices than summer peak.
5. What festivals are in October around the world?
Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is all about Bavarian culture and beer tents and music. In the USA harvest festivals and Halloween events are everywhere, unique cultural experiences.
6. Are there any travel deals in October?
October is shoulder season in many destinations so prices for flights and accommodations are lower. It’s a great time to find deals and avoid peak season crowds.
7. What to pack for October?
Pack layers. A light jacket, comfortable shoes and a small umbrella. Don’t forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle for outdoor activities.