What are the best countries to visit in October?? With the October half term and a lot of the world turning a beautiful Golden colour before winter starts, October is a great time to travel!
In this post, I’ll give you ideas of the best countries to visit in October for autumn colours like Canada and Italy. Best destinations for October half term like Morocco and Greece and if you’re looking to head to Asia, where to visit in Asia in October now that the summer rain has stopped and places are cooling down!
The entire country transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, burnt oranges and golden yellows, making it one of the best countries to visit in October for autumn foliage. The weather in Canada in October is crisp and cool rather than cold, sitting around 10–15°C in most regions — ideal for road trips and hiking without the summer crowds or winter chill.
What makes Canada such a brilliant October destination is that the weather is genuinely perfect for sightseeing — clear, bright days that show off those autumn colours at their absolute best. Cities like Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver are also lovely in October, with fewer tourists, great harvest food festivals and that cosy autumn atmosphere.
If October in North America appeals to you, check out my guide to the 21 Best places to visit in North America in October! USA & Canada!
2. SCOTLAND
Brit’s don’t need to travel far to see incredible Autumn colours because Scotland in October is genuinely world-class and majorly underrated for autumn colour! The Highlands transform into something almost painterly at this time of year, with ancient oak and birch woodlands, purple heather moorlands and dramatic glens all turning shades of amber, rust and gold that rival anywhere on earth.
For the best autumn colours in Scotland in October, head to Perthshire, often called the “Big Tree Country” where the Hermitage woodland near Dunkeld is spectacular, particularly around the famous Ossian’s Hall waterfall surrounded by golden larches. Glencoe, Loch Lomond and the Cairngorms National Park are equally stunning. The cities are great too! Edinburgh in October has a wonderful atmosphere with fewer tourists, excellent whisky bars and cosy restaurants to retreat to when the Scottish weather does what Scottish weather does.
For which European countries have the best autumn foliage in October? Don’t forget Scotland!
Related posts: 5 Day Scotland Itinerary with MAP Visiting Scotlands TOP Attractions! \ BEST One Day in Edinburgh! With Lots of Options!
3. ITALY
Italy in October is one of the best places to visit in Europe in October, and honestly one of the most underrated times to be there. The summer crowds have thinned out, the temperatures have dropped to a very comfortable 18–22°C and the countryside is stunning, think rolling Tuscan hills draped in autumn gold, vineyard harvests in full swing and the Dolomites putting on a spectacular show of fall colour because the snow comes.
October is also perfect for the cities. Rome, Florence and Venice are all significantly quieter and more enjoyable than in July or August, meaning you can actually stop and appreciate the art, architecture and incredible food without fighting through tour groups. Whether you’re hiking through the Cinque Terre or exploring the Amalfi Coast with far fewer people around, Italy in October offers the full experience at its most relaxed and beautiful and because of this it also makes for one of the best destinations for October half term with the kids.
For more ideas of where to visit in Europe in October, see my full guide with 19 Best places to visit in Europe in October!
4. SPAIN
Spain is always a winner to visit because it offers so much in every month of the year and is a great all-round destination. Spainis particularly one of the best destinations in Europe for October half term, and it’s easy to see why so many UK families head there every year. The weather in Spain in October is warm and sunny without the intense summer heat, sitting around 20–25°C in the south, perfect for keeping kids happy by the pool, even if it is a bit chilly, we know the kids don’t care once they are in the water!
The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and Lanzarote, are an especially brilliant choice for families during October half term as they sit off the coast of Africa and enjoy reliably warm, dry weather of around 25°C even in late October.
For families wanting a bit more culture and city life alongside the sunshine, Seville, Barcelona and Malaga are all fantastic in October. The streets are cooler and calmer than summer, making it far easier to explore with kids in tow, whether that’s visiting Seville’s fairy-tale Alcázar, doing the Barcelona cable car or taking a day trip from Malaga into thepretty villages of Andalusia. October half term in Spain strikes that perfect balance of reliable weather, easy flights from the UK and something to keep the whole family happy.
Related posts: Tenerife Road Trip Guide! Itinerary, Places To Visit, Car Hire! / Southern Spain Itinerary COMPLETE GUIDE – Short or Long Trip!
5. GREECE
One of the best countries to visit in Europe in October is Greece and this is arguably the most underrated time to go. The summer madness is well and truly over, yet the weather in Greece in October is still gloriously warm at around 20–25°C, the sea is still swimmable and the light has that gorgeous golden quality that makes everything look even more beautiful.
For families looking for an October half term destination, Greece absolutely delivers. The Greek islands are much more relaxed in October, for example, Crete, Rhodes and Corfu all still have plenty of sunshine and warm seas and on the mainland, Athens is fantastic in October, with comfortable temperatures making it far more enjoyable to visit the famous Acropolis and city with kids in tow.
Related posts: 16 BEST Greek Islands for Families to Visit! Personal Recommendations!
6. AUSTRIA
Autumn transforms Austria into something truly magical, and October is arguably the finest month to visit. The alpine valleys blaze with colour as the leaves turn, the crowds from the summer hiking season have gone and the temperatures sit at a crisp, comfortable 12–18°C which is warm enough to explore but cool enough to make every walk through the mountains feel refreshing.
October also brings harvest festivals, pumpkin markets and the first hints of cosy Viennese café culture ramping up ahead of winter, giving the whole country a wonderfully warm, seasonal feel making it one of the top autumn destinations to visit in Europe!
Vienna is exceptional in October and if you venture outside the capital and you’ve got the Salzkammergut Lake District draped in autumn colour, the charming streets of Salzburg and the dramatic peaks of the Tyrolean Alps offering some of the best autumn hiking in Europe. For countries with autumn foliage in October, Austria is hard to beat!
7. NORWAY
One of my favourite countries is Norway and October is an epic time to go, especially the start of the month if you are looking for the best countries to visit in October for autumn colours. By September, the landscapes are draped in spectacular autumn colour which really show off in October and the nights are drawing in just enough to give you a real chance of seeing the Northern Lights in certain places!
The further North you go, the colder but more spectacular Norway gets. The Lofoten Islands, Bergen and the Trolltunga hike are all fantastic in October for those who love the outdoors, while Oslo offers world-class museums, incredible restaurants and a cosy city atmosphere that comes alive in autumn and makes a great autumn city break!
Related posts: 2 Days in Oslo | Itinerary for the City & Day Trip Ideas! / 18 Places To Stop On A Bergen to Alesund Road Trip!
8. TÜRKİYE
One of my most visited countries in October is Türkiye and it truly is one of the best countries to visit in October because of its comfortable weather and late autumn arrival. If you want a beach break, the Turkish coastline is still generally still warm and swimmable in October at around 22–25°C, but without the crowds and sky-high prices of August.
Inland, Cappadocia in October is extraordinary and is where I personally recommend from experience of visiting in October! There’s still heat from the sun, especially in the daytime but autumn is creeping in and it’s a good month to go on one of the iconic hot air balloons!
Istanbul in October is a dream, I lived there for the whole of October a few years ago. Autumn has not fully arrived so it’s still warm but you can enjoy the trees turning golden and explore the city comfortably without the heat.
Related posts: What’s The BEST Time to Visit Cappadocia? Weather By Month! / 10 Istanbul Hidden GEMS For Unique Things To Do in Istanbul!
9. MOROCCO
To head to a country that will make you feel a million miles away but is so close to Europe and is one of the best options for where to travel in October for warm weather, head to Morocco this October! With a 3-4 hour flight time from Europe, it’s ideal!
The weather in Morocco in October is warm and sunny without being overwhelming. Temperatures in Marrakech sit around 25–28°C, making it ideal for exploring the souks, gardens and medinas that are simply too hot and exhausting to enjoy fully in July or August. The coastal cities of Agadir and Essaouira are even more pleasant, with cooling Atlantic breezes keeping things comfortable throughout the day and make for a great option for a family holiday in the October half term!
Related posts: 20 BEST Cafes & Restaurants in Marrakech! PLUS, Rooftops in Marrakesh! / REVIEW | Private Villa in Marrakech With Pool & Rooftop!
10. TUNISIA
For UK and European holiday makers chasing late sunshine without the summer price tags, Tunisia in October is ideal! Firstly, direct flights from the UK take just 3–4 hours and all-inclusive resorts, particularly in Hammamet, Sousse and Djerba which offer exceptional value in October. The weather is still good with plenty of sunshine and very little rain and much more manageable than summer in Tunisia.
The all-inclusive scene in Tunisia is well-established and genuinely good, with large resort complexes offering pools, beach access, entertainment and multiple restaurants, making it an easy and affordable choice for families and couples alike. Tunisia is more than an all inclusive though, you can do day trips to the ancient ruins of Carthage, the beautiful Medina of Tunis or the otherworldly salt flats of Chott el-Djerid and in October, these are all genuinely enjoyable rather than a sweaty ordeal.
Related posts: Tunisia Itinerary | 3 Days in Tunis, Hammamet & Sousse
11. EGYPT
October is, without question, one of the finest months to visit Egypt. The HOT summer temperatures have eased significantly by October, settling at a much more comfortable 28–32°C, warm enough to enjoy but cool enough to actually explore properly. For UK travellers asking where to go on holiday in October for winter sun, Egypt is one of the closest and most rewarding answers, with direct flights taking just 4–5 hours from most UK airports.
Sharm el-Sheikh and Hurghada on the Red Sea coast offer world-class diving and snorkelling, while the Nile Valley comes alive in October’s gentler heat, making it the perfect time to cruise between ancient sites and explore the Valley of the Kings . For history and sunshine, especially if you are looking for where to go on holiday in the October half term with the kids, Egypt is hard to beat.
12. UZBEKISTAN
Uzbekistan is becoming more and more popular, and for good reason, so if it’s on your list to visit, October is a great time! The weather in Uzbekistan in October is perfect and will be similar to when I went in Springtime. The high summer heat has well and truly passed, leaving warm, sunny days of around 20–25°C and cool, comfortable evenings ideal for exploring.
And there’s a lot to explore from Samarkand’s blue tiled domes, to Bukhara’s ancient mud-brick old town, and the walled medieval city of Khiva are among the most visually stunning places in the world. In October, the bazaars are also overflowing with fresh pomegranates, figs and melons at this time of year, adding a wonderful layer to your trip. For those asking where to travel in October for something beyond the typical beach holiday, Uzbekistan deserves some consideration.
Related posts: What to Wear in Uzbekistan As a Tourist! Inside and Outside of Tourist Attractions!
If Asia is on your radar for October, read my full guide to 21 Best places to visit in Asia in October covering Central, South & South East Asia!
13. JAPAN
For Autumn colours and the best autumn foliage in Asia and arguably where to see the best autumn colours in the world in October, head to Japan! The famous koyo season, as the Japanese call it, begins in the north in early October and slowly sweeps southward through the month, painting the country in the most breathtaking shades of crimson, amber and gold.
Now, not all of Japan is in Autumn in October, some of the country is still very hot and in its summer months, but the best places to see autumn colours in Japan in October include Hokkaido in the far north, where the foliage peaks earliest, while Kyoto is arguably the most beautiful city in Japan and begins its koyo season towards the end of October. Tokyo in October is also fantastic and comfortably warm at around 18–22°C, buzzing with energy and far less humid than the summer months. Japan in October is a genuine bucket list experience that delivers on every level.
The October half term is also a great time of year to visit with the kids because of the weather and autumn activities!
Related posts: 2 Week Japan Itinerary Perfect For Your First Trip to Japan! \ 16 FREE Things To Do in Japan In Japan’s Most Popular Cities!
14. SOUTH KOREA
Another one of the best countries to visit in Asia in October for Autumn colours is South Korea! Just like during Spring time, it rivals Japan with a fraction of the international crowds. The weather is crisp, clear and wonderfully comfortable, ideal for exploring the country’s incredible mix of ancient palaces, mountain temples and buzzing modern cities, all draped in spectacular autumn colour throughout the month.
For the best autumn colours in South Korea in October, Seoraksan National Park in the northeast is unmissable with the crimson and gold-draped mountains are jaw-dropping and the hiking is outstanding. In Seoul, the palace grounds of Gyeongbokgung are stunning with ancient architecture framed by fiery maple trees. Add in Seoul’s world-class food scene and surprisingly affordable prices, and South Korea in October is an absolute no-brainer for autumn travel in Asia.
Related posts: 10 Day South Korea Itinerary – Seoul, Busan & Jeju Island!
15. INDIA
India is one of my favourite countries and most visited countries but after visiting in August, I would not recommend the summer and instead waiting for October! North India particularly is great to visit in October because the humid summer heat and monsoons have passed, and clear, sunny days are ahead. Although don’t go thinking it will be cool, it will still be hot!
If you are wanting to do the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, this is a great time to do it, and places further North in the Himalayas are warm before they go into cooler winter winter. Depending on the calendar, Diwali can fall late October / start of November which is a great and memorable (although busy!) time to be in India! India is a location best suited for remote workers and digital nomads because of the cheap cost of living so you could stay there awhile too!
Related posts: DETAILED Golden Triangle India Itinerary – 1 Week in India \ 24 BEST Places to Visit in India on FIRST Trip!
16. PAKISTAN
One of the unique countries I’ve visited in October recently is Pakistan and it was actually my second time there this time of year! I ran a ladies group tour to Pakistan purposely in October because of the ideal weather!
The highlight of Pakistan for travellers is Northern Pakistan which is incredible in October because the daytime weather is warm and the trees are , turning golden with slightly colder evenings and access is still good for everywhere in the North, whereas if you leave it until later in the winter, lots of the Northern areas close as they get too cold, but if you go in summer its sweltering hot! To visit Northern Pakistan you’ll need to fly into either Lahore or Islamabad, in October these are still hot but manageable.
Pakistan is the place for hiking and being in nature, it is truly incredible so if you want one of the off the beaten path places to visit in October, Pakistan is for you!
Related posts: A 2 Week Pakistan Itinerary to Northern Pakistan & the Cities! \ Pakistan Travel Advice. Things To Know BEFORE You Go to Pakistan!
17. THAILAND
If you want to head to South East Asia in the October half term, Thailand in October is one of the best countries to visit in October for families during half term, you just need to choose the right read of the country! The Gulf of Thailand islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao tend to see more rainfall this month, so it’s best avoided. Instead, plan a holiday on the other side of the country, home to Phuket, Krabi and Koh Lanta where the sunshine is more reliable as October progresses.
In the north, Chiang Mai in October is wonderful for families, the landscapes are lush and green and the famous Yi Peng Lantern Festival falls around this period. Elephant sanctuaries, cooking classes, night markets and jungle treks make it one of the most family-friendly destinations in Asia and a seriously memorable October half term.
Related posts: EPIC 2 Week Thailand Itinerary – North & South Islands! \ DETAILED Female Packing List For Thailand! What To Pack For Thailand!
18. VIETNAM
Vietnam in October isanother get country to visit in South East Asia but it is about knowing where to go in Vietnam in October. Central Vietnam, including Hoi An and Da Nang, can be affected by typhoon season so is best avoided this month. In the south Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc island see short, sharp showers that rarely ruin a day. But the clear winner in October is northern Vietnam, where Hanoi, Halong Bay and the terraced rice fields of Sapa are at their absolute finest, with cooler temperatures, clear skies and the rice harvest turning the hillsides a spectacular shade of gold.
That golden rice harvest in Sapa alone is worth the trip, it’s one of the most beautiful natural spectacles in Southeast Asia, and October is peak time to witness it. Combine that with a cruise through the limestone karsts of Halong Bay and the buzzing street food scene of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and northern Vietnam in October is an absolute must for adventurous travellers looking for somewhere special this autumn.
19. SAUDI ARABIA
For Muslims looking to do the pilgrimage of Umrah in one of the school holidays, the October half term is a good one to choose! It will be busy but the weather is much cooler than the summer, and Saudi actually gets cold in the winter so it can be seen as better than going around Christmas and New Year where its colder, and much busier with tourists.
For non Muslims looking to visit this fast growing country, there is so much to see and explore in October and whilst days will still be hot, the major summer heat is finished and you will get nice evenings around the country. From the capital of Riyadh with a rapidly evolving food and arts scene, to the history and landscape in Al-Ula. Al Ula is often compared to Petra in Jordan. It sits in a dramatic desert valley and is best explored in the cooler autumn months when the ochre rock formations glow in the softer October light. There’s also the Red Sea where you can go swimming in beautiful temperatures in October.
Related posts: Riyadh Travel Guide For Tourists to Saudi Arabia! \ What To Wear in Saudi Arabia As a Foreign Woman?
20. SOUTH AFRICA
South Africa in October is an absolute dream, and one of the best-timed destinations you can make. October marks the beginning of spring in the southern hemisphere, meaning the landscapes are bursting into life with wildflowers are blooming, baby animals are appearing across the game reserves and the weather is warming without yet reaching the intense summer heat. It’s arguably the single best month to visit.
For wildlife lovers, Kruger National Park is exceptional in October as animals become more active after winter and the bush is still sparse enough to make sightings of lions, elephants and leopards outstanding. The Garden Route is equally beautiful in spring, while Cape Town is perhaps at its very best with warm sunny days, the famous Namaqualand wildflowers in full bloom and Table Mountain looking spectacular under clear blue skies. For variety of experience, especially if you are looking for an epic October half term holiday idea, South Africa in October is almost impossible to beat.
21. KENYA
Kenya in October sits in the short rainy season, but don’t let that put you off because showers are typically brief and the country remains one of the best destinations to visit in October for wildlife and adventure. In fact, October is one of the quieter months for tourism in Kenya, which means fewer vehicles at game drives and a more intimate safari experience than the peak summer months.
The Masai Mara is still exceptional in October, with the tail end of the Great Migration meaning large herds of wildebeest and zebra are still present in the reserve. Beyond safari, the Kenyan coast around Diani Beach offers beautiful white sand and warm Indian Ocean waters, making it the perfect place to unwind after a few days on the game drives. Kenya in October quietly delivers one of the best African travel experiences of the year.
22. MEXICO
Finally, for good weather and some local festivities, Mexico in October is a great choice! Popular destinations like Tulum, Playa del Carmen and the Yucatán Peninsula are increasingly more reliable in weather as the month progresses, perfect for those looking for an October half term holiday as a family.
What makes Mexico in October truly special though is the build-up to Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead festival which takes place on 1st and 2nd November but elebrations, altars and decorations appear across the country in the final week of October. Oaxaca is widely considered the best place in Mexico to experience the festivities, with elaborately decorated cemeteries, candlelit processions and incredible food making it one of the most unique and moving cultural experiences in the world. Mexico City and San Miguel de Allende are equally spectacular during this period, with the streets alive with marigolds, skull face paint and joyful remembrance.
Related posts: 1 Week Mexico Itinerary! Yucatán Road Trip in DETAIL!
The Caribbean is also a great area of the world to visit in October, see my guide to the 10 Best Caribbean islands to visit in October!
Where is the best place to go in October for warm weather?
For reliable warm weather in Europe in October, head to countries like Greece and Türkiye. Spain is also a good option. North Africa has lovely warm weather in October so countries like Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt are ideal to visit in October for warm weather and an easy all inclusive holiday.
If you can head to Asia, all of South East Asia has hot weather in Autumn.
What are the best countries to visit for October half term?
Spain is an all-round winner when it comes to the best countries to visit for October half term as it offers so much with good weather and plenty of flights. Greece and Türkiye are also great European countries to visit in the October half term for good weather and plenty of activities.
For long haul destinations for the October half term, Japan is turning a beautifully Golden colour in October with comfortable exploring temperatures. South Africa offers plenty in October from great Safari opportunities to coastal activities with great weather, and with the chance to catch the start of the day of the dead festival, Mexico would be an ideal holiday option for October half term!
Where can I go for guaranteed sunshine in October?
For guaranteed sunshine in October, North India is a clear winner! Here you can enjoy all the cultural activities and attractions with hot clear days. Morocco and Egypt, especially the coast of Egypt is ideal for guaranteed sunshine in October.
Which countries have the best autumn colours in October?
If you are looking for the best autumn colours in October, countries like Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Norway and Sweden deliver. If you want to travel long haul Japan is amazing for autumn colours and South Korea rivals Japan in nature and beauty but without as many crowds. Canada and the USA are also big winners of countries with the best autumn colours.
I hope this post helps you with finding the best countries to visit in October!
- For more of my posts see:
- 10 BEST Caribbean Islands to Visit in OCTOBER – Good Weather!
- 19 BEST Places to Visit in EUROPE in October – Autumn Colours, Warm Weather
- 23 BEST Places to Visit in Asia in OCTOBER – Autumn, Beach, City destinations
- 21 BEST Places to Visit in North America in OCTOBER – Fall, Warm Places & Halloween
- 20 BEST Countries to Visit in SEPTEMBER – Perfect Weather and Fewer Crowds
- 26 BEST Countries to Visit in AUGUST! Where to go on Holiday in August!
- 33 BEST Places to Visit in Asia in December & January!
- 30 BEST Places to Visit in Europe in December – Christmas & non-Christmas Travel!