October is a wonderful time to travel as usually it will be less crowded and the weather will be cooler than the summer months. Whether you’re looking to escape to the sun, see incredible landscapes transform into autumn colours or experience a new culture, there are different options to choose from depending on your interests. Check out our top recommendations on the best places to go on holiday in October.
Best October Holiday Destinations
Tenerife
As one of the best places to go in October for sun, our Tenerife holidays offer all the ingredients for a wonderful Autumn escape; pleasant climate, diverse landscapes, beaches and excellent sightseeing. Travel around this scenic island with our knowledgeable guide to see the capital, Santa Cruz, the majestic Mount Teide, the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes and the bustling resort of Playa de las Americas. On your free days and in the evenings, stroll through the colourful streets of old Puerto de la Cruz and enjoy a seafront drink with the Atlantic waves lapping at your feet. If you're looking for a unique and memorable experience, we suggest stargazing in Tenerife as this time of year offers the right conditions to observe the beautiful night sky.
View our best rated holiday to Tenerife: Tenerife Coast & Country.
Austrian Alps
The Austrian Alps are renowned for their beautiful landscapes, majestic peaks, lush valleys, pristine lakes, and charming alpine villages. A visit to this region during autumn is a sight to behold with the variations of red, orange and yellow foliage contrasting against the towering mountains. On our Austria holidays we'll stay in the village of Kirchberg in Tirol and one of our excursions will be to Innsbruck, Austria’s fifth largest city that is full of history and stunning natural surroundings. Its most famous landmark is the Golden Roof or Goldenes Dachl, a roof covered in over 2,600 fire gilded copper tiles to commemorate the wedding of Emperor Maximilian I to Bianca Maria Stforza. Other highlights include the old town, Ambras Castle and Wilten Abbey Basilica.
The French Riviera
The Côte d’Azur or French Riviera has been the playground of the rich and famous since the 19th century and all of its allure still remains. Cannes is the perfect base for exploring this region in France, with its elegant Boulevard de la Croisette, sandy beaches and colourful Old Town. For those looking for a taste of the high life, it’s very easy to take a day trip to Monaco, the epitome of glamour, wealth and luxury. Despite being the second smallest country in the world, it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, a stunning coastline, parks, gardens and a picturesque Old Town. It’s also home to the world famous casino Monte Carlo, the backdrop for many famous films including ‘Goldeneye’ and ‘To Catch A Thief.’ On our Cannes & the Cote d'Azur holiday, we'll also enjoy excursions to Nice, the capital of the French Riveria and stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, the historic town of Antibes and see how famous artists like Picasso were inspired by the village of St-Paul-de-Vence.
The Rhine River
Want to see more of Europe in the autumn, in a short space of time without having to unpack? Then a river cruise with us may be the perfect solution! On a Rhine river cruise sail through four different countries and the ports of call include some of the most beautiful European towns and cities. Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is renowned for its rich artistic history and winding canals dotted with narrow houses and pretty bridges. The city’s museums are a must see for art lovers, with the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum boasting impressive collections of Dutch renaissance art. Heidelberg is one of Germany's most picturesque and romantic cities. The city’s main attraction is its magnificent sandstone castle which overlooks the red roofs of the baroque “Altstadt” or Old Town, dating from the 18th century. In the French city of Strasbourg, you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grande Île, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and historic buildings, including the Strasbourg Cathedral. Considered the cultural capital of Switzerland, Basel boasts many museums, a well preserved old Town and a beautiful Gothic cathedral.
Sicily
Whilst experiencing the region’s best sightseeing on our Sicily holidays, you can enjoy a relaxing stay by the Mediterranean Sea and at this time of the year the temperature is around 23 degrees, ideal for swimming or snorkelling. Located off the toe of Italy, Sicily is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea crammed full of wonderful sights, experiences and charming seaside towns and villages. Taormina, the ‘Pearl of Sicily’ is regarded as being one of the most beautiful towns in Italy with its colourful maze of narrow streets and terraces, teeming with cafés, restaurants and boutiques. It's best known for its Greco-Roman amphitheatre, which offers amazing views of the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Etna, Europe’s largest volcano and one of the world’s most active. History buffs will love exploring the world renowned and UNESCO listed archaeological park of Syracuse or ‘Parco Archeologico della Neapolis.’ It contains outstanding vestiges dating back to Greek and Roman times, such as the Temple of Athena, a Roman amphitheatre, the Ear of Dionysius and much more. Cinema fans can visit the towns of Savoca and Forza D'Agrò, filming locations from the classic film “The Godfather”. You can browse all October availability for our holidays to Italy here.
There are plenty of other top places to go in October, browse our website and check out our range of incredible holiday destinations in Europe or our long haul holidays and find your perfect autumn getaway.
