Looking for the best places to visit in Europe in October?? October is a great time to travel, especially if you have kids because of the October half term.
Whether you are looking for majestic Autumn colours where you can live out the ‘hashtag basic life’ of pumpkin spiced lattes and fallen leaves, or you want some warm weather in Europe in October for a coastal trip or city break, here is a list of the best places in Europe in October broken down into sections with some popular places, and some more underrated destinations.
🍂 Best Places to Visit in Europe in October for Autumn Colours
October in Europe really is all about Autumn and below are the best places to visit in Europe for Autumn colours, especially if you want to get into nature and do some walking and exploring. If you prefer an Autumn city break in Europe in October, keep reading as my city break suggestions below are also based on Autumn colours.
1. The Dolomites, Italy
For where to go in Europe in October, the Dolomites really is top of the list and honestly one of the most spectacular autumn scenes on the entire continent. As October arrives, the larch trees that blanket the Dolomites floors and lower mountain slopes transform from green into a vivid, almost electric gold. The Dolomites in October sit at around 10–15°C, crisp and clear, making it ideal for hiking without the summer heat, and without the summer crowds, however do expect a number of ‘Autumn visitors’ like yourself because this is not a hidden gem!
The most iconic spots of Alpe di Siusi, Val di Funes, and Lake Braies are all at their best in late October when the colour is at peak. If you are looking for autumn colours in Europe, the Dolomites belong at the very top of your list.
2. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes in October is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful places in all of Europe and one of the best reasons to visit Croatia in October. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is stunning at any time of year but autumn transforms it into something trulyincredible because the 16 terraced lakes and countless waterfalls are framed by forest that shifts from green to amber, gold and deep red as October progresses.
Temperatures sit at a comfortable 12–16°C, perfect for walking the wooden boardwalks and trails that wind through the park without the intense summer heat. Late October is the sweet spot for the best colour which is ideal if you are planning a trip to Europe in the October half term! For anyone building a list of the best places to see autumn colours in Europe, Plitvice Lakes is a great option and you can enjoy the cooler temperatures in the rest of Croatia at the same time.
3. Transylvania, Romania
If you are looking for an underrated autumn destination in Europe, Transylvania in Romania deserves to be near the top of your list. Romania in October is still largely off the radar for most travellers, which makes it one of the most rewarding European destinations in October for those who want genuine atmosphere without the crowds.
The Carpathian Mountains that ring the region are blanketed in dense forest that turns a spectacular mix of copper, burgundy and gold through October, with medieval Saxon villages like Sighișoara, Brașov and Bran sitting in the valleys below like something straight out of a fairytale! Temperatures hover around 10–14°C — cool enough to feel authentically autumnal but perfectly comfortable for exploring making Transylvania in autumn one of Europe’s great hidden gems and October is the ideal month to visit.
4. The Douro Valley, Portugal
You might not put Autumn colours and Portugal together but you should! For autumn colours in Portugal, the Douro Valley is simply unmissable and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe in October. This is harvest season in one of the world’s great wine regions, and the steep terraced vineyards turn a breathtaking mix of gold, amber and russet through October.
The Douro Valley in October sits at around 18–22°C, warm enough to enjoy long lunches at a quinta overlooking the river and cool enough to make exploring the hillside villages genuinely pleasant. A visit here pairs perfectly with a few days in Porto, just an hour’s drive or a scenic train ride away, making it an easy addition to any Portugal in October itinerary. If you want good weather in Europe in October alongside world-class scenery and food, the Douro Valley delivers on every front.
5. The Cotswolds, UK
Autumn really is my favourite time of year in the UK and for the best places to visit in October in England, the Cotswolds, are the ideal answer. The popular villages of the Cotswolds like Bourton-on-the-Water, Burford, Castle Combe and Bibury look their best in October when the surrounding trees and hedgerows turn amber and gold, and the early morning mist that settles over the fields adds an atmosphere you won’t forget.
The Cotswolds in October sits at around 10–14°C, crisp and fresh, ideal for long walks along the Cotswold Way and afternoons in cosy village pubs with an open fire. The summer crowds have gone, however this area is busy pretty much all year round now, so don’t expect it to yourselves in October and especially not in the last week of October when the kids are not at school. Taking of kids, we went to the Cotswolds Nature Park recently which was a great fun and an ideal family day out. Autumn in the Cotswolds is slow, beautiful and deeply restorative, exactly what October should feel like.
Related posts: 5 PRETTIEST Places to Visit in The Cotswolds!
6. Scottish Highlands, UK
If you’re reading this list of places to go in Europe in October for Autumn colours, remember that you don’t need to travel all the way across Europe, because the Scottish Highlands in October is an amazing place to visit! The vast open landscapes transform into a dramatic patchwork of russet bracken, golden birch trees and fading purple heather, all set against mirror-still lochs that make every view feel like a painting!
Glen Coe, the Cairngorms National Park and the North Coast 500 route are all at their most spectacular through October! Like the Cotswolds, the Scottish Highlands is a brilliant October half term destination for UK travellers who want dramatic autumn scenery without a flight, but it also draws international visitors specifically for this season. Scotland in October is raw, wild and spectacular, and one of the most genuinely memorable autumn destinations in Europe you can visit. One of my main tips is to book accommodation early for your trip to Scotland in October!
Related posts: 5 Day Scotland Itinerary with MAP Visiting Scotlands TOP Attractions! \ 18 BEST Things To Do In The Scottish Highlands with Map!
7. Black Forest, Germany
Out of everywhere in Europe,Germany really delivers on Autumn colours in October is a fantastic choice for autumn travel and nowhere showcases it better than the Black Forest, one of the most classic and iconic fall foliage destinations in Europe! The dense canopy of fir, beech and oak trees that gives this region its name and its reputation turns a rich mix of copper, gold and deep red through October, with winding forest roads, wooden farmhouses and mirror-still lakes appearing around every corner.
The Black Forest in October sits at around 8–13°C — cool, crisp and atmospheric in the best possible way, perfect for hiking the extensive trail network that threads through the trees without the summer crowds. The spa town of Baden-Baden makes an excellent base, combining easy access to the forest with excellent restaurants, thermal baths and an elegance that makes it one of the most enjoyable European city and nature combinations in October and the area is vast so tourists all coming to see autumn colours can be spread out throughout the region.
8. Hallstatt, Austria
If there is one place in Europe that looks like it was designed specifically for autumn, it is Hallstatt, and October is the best month to visit. This impossibly pretty Austrian village, tucked between a glassy alpine lake and the steep wooded slopes is famous for being one of the most photographed places in the world so don’t expect this area to yourself in October, but you will see why everyone goes and why it’s so popular!
Temperatures sit at around 8–12°C, cool and fresh, ideal for exploring the village on foot, hiking the trails above the lake and taking the funicular up to the Hallstatt Skywalk for views that on a clear October day are simply breathtaking. For anyone putting together an Austria in October itinerary, pairing Hallstatt with nearby Salzburg makes for a near-perfect autumn break in Europe, combining alpine lakeside scenery with one of the continent’s most beautiful baroque cities. Autumn in the Salzkammergut is quiet, golden and completely special.
9. Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
Another one of the top places to go in October in Europe is Switzerland and you won’t be disappointed by anywhere in the country in October, but one of the best places to go in Switzerland in October for those who want mountains, waterfalls and golden foliage all in one place is Lauterbrunnen! This jaw-dropping Swiss valley, known for it’s 72 waterfalls cascading down the cliffs transforms in October as the valley floor and lower slopes turn a vivid gold and the first dusting of snow appears on the peaks above, creating a combination of colour and scale that feels almost overwhelming.
Temperatures sit at around 6–11°C, perfect for hiking the valley trails and taking the train up to Mürren or Wengen, two car-free mountain villages that sit above the clouds and offer some of the finest panoramic views in the whole of the Alps. Switzerland in October sits in that sweet spot between the summer hiking season and the winter ski season, meaning significantly fewer tourists, lower accommodation prices and a quieter, more authentic experience of a region that can feel overrun at peak times.
Looking for more ideas?? See my guide to the BEST Countries to visit in October!
☀️ Places in Europe with warm weather in October
If you are searching for warm weather in Europe in October, here are a few options of where to go for good weather in October. Hint – the best places to go are those destinations on the edge of Europe!
10. Madeira, Portugal
The Portuguese islands Madeira (that are pretty far from mainland Portugal!) is one of the most consistently sunny destinations in Europe in October that many travellers overlook in favour of the Canary Islands or the Algarve. Known as the Island of Eternal Spring, Madeira in October enjoys temperatures of around 22–25°C with plenty of sunshine, warm enough for the beach and outdoor exploring without the intense heat of summer.
Madeira is well known for hiking and the dramatic volcanic landscape of this Portuguese island makes it one of the most visually stunning warm weather destinations in Europe in October, with towering cliffs, lush green valleys, colourful villages and the famous levada walking trails that wind through the mountains all waiting to be explored. For UK travellers looking for October sun in Europe, Madeira is just a 3.5 hour flight from London and offers exceptional value compared to long haul alternatives!
11. Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are a popular winter sun destinations in Europe due to their location, but October is a great choice too with them being even warmer and comfortable than winter, especially for the October half term because they are such a family friendly destination for October especially from the UK given it is just a 4 hour flight from most UK airports.
The Canary Islands in October enjoy temperatures of around 23–26°C with long sunny days and very little rainfall. Each island has its own distinct personality — Tenerife for a mix of beaches, nightlife and the dramatic Mount Teide National Park (this is an epic hike you fancy hiking the highest point in Spain!). Lanzarote for volcanic landscapes and a more laid back pace, Gran Canaria for a combination of sand dunes, city life and mountain scenery, and Fuerteventura for some of the best beaches in Europe full stop. For anyone searching for European destinations with good weather in October that offer both beach time and genuine things to do, the Canary Islands remain one of the most reliable and rewarding choices on the entire continent.
Related posts: Tenerife Road Trip Guide! Itinerary, Places To Visit, Car Hire!
12. Malta
Malta in October is one of those destinations that consistently surprises travellers who visit for the first time, and for warm weather in Europe in October it is one of the most underrated choices on the continent. This tiny Mediterranean island nation sits at around 24–27°C through October with an average of eight hours of sunshine a day, making it one of the warmest places in Europe in October and a brilliant option for those who want reliable sun without committing to a long haul flight because Malta is just 3 hours from most UK airports.
What sets Malta apart as an October destination in Europe is the depth of history and culture packed into such a small island, the beaches are not the only thing to be enjoyed here which is why it’s a great off season destination. The walled capital Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s smallest and most extraordinary capital cities and the ancient walled city of Mdina. But also, the crystal clear waters around Malta and the neighbouring island of Gozo are still warm enough for swimming and snorkelling well into October, making this one of the best Mediterranean destinations in October for combining culture with beach time.
Related posts: 10 FUN Things To Do In Mellieha, Malta!
13. Southern Türkiye
For warm weather in Europe in October that comes with ancient ruins, turquoise bays and exceptional food, Southern Türkiye, on the edge of Europe, is one of the best value destinations in Europe in October you can choose. The Turkish Riviera in October enjoys temperatures of around 24–28°C with long sunny days and minimal rainfall — genuinely beach worthy weather at a time when most of mainland Europe has well and truly moved into autumn.
The Aegean and Mediterranean coastline that stretches from Bodrum down through Marmaris, Fethiye and Antalya offers something for every type of holiday maker, from all inclusive resorts in October for families wanting a straightforward sun holiday, to boutique guesthouses in Kalkan for couples after something more intimate, to the ancient ruins of Ephesus, Lycian rock tombs and the sunken city of Kekova for history lovers. October also brings significantly lower prices than the summer peak and far fewer tourists, making this one of the best times to visit Southern Türkiye and one of the most rewarding sunny destinations in Europe in October for those who want maximum experience for their money.
Related post: Hilton Dalaman Sarigerme Review: Perfect for Families with Kids of All Ages!
🏙️ Best City Breaks in Europe in October
To finish this list, city breaks in Europe in October are a great idea because the comfortable temperature makes exploring cities enjoyable without it being too hot, or too cold yet. Get a coffee or hot chocolate and enjoy the slower paced city life whilst exploring in a light jacket and still enjoying the outdoors, and here’s a list of the best options for October city breaks in Europe.
14. Porto, Portugal
Porto in October is when the city at its absolute best and offers one of the finest city breaks in Europe in October. This is because temperatures sit at a comfortable 18–21°C, warm enough to sit outside at a riverside café along the Ribeira waterfront or explore the famous azulejo tiled streets without a coat, but with enough crispness in the air that the city feels genuinely autumnal.
Porto in autumn also gives you the option of combining your city break with a day trip into the Douro Valley wine region which I mention above un this post, just an hour away, where the vineyards are turning gold at exactly this time of year too!
15. London, UK
If I had to pick, I’d say Autumn is my favourite time of year in the UK and London in October is a great month and time of the year for a London city break! There are so many park and green areas in London which turn a beautiful golden colour in late October and the golden light and crisp sunny, but chilly days are my favourite.
London has a great choice of indoor and outdoor activities and the city is best to explore when it is not too hot, October means you can explore the city in a light jacket enjoying the parks and river, as well as all of the indoor activities. I suggest heading to Hampstead Heath and Hyde Park to see some beautiful gardens and parks in October in London, and plan a day trip to Oxford, or the Cotswolds which I mentioned earlier in this post. In addition to this, there are lots of Halloween and pumpkin related activities during October for families to enjoy making it even more of a good October city break in Europe for families.
Related posts: 3 Day London Itinerary – How to See ALL Of London in 3 Days!
16. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest in October is one of the great city breaks in Europe in October and a destination that genuinely comes into its own at this time of year. Temperatures are cool enough to feel authentically autumnal but perfectly comfortable for walking the grand boulevards, crossing the iconic Chain Bridge and exploring the historic Castle District on the Buda side of the river, and, the city’s famous thermal baths, including Széchenyi and Gellért, feel far more appealing in October than in the heat of summer.
Budapest in autumn sees the parks and hillsides of the Buda Hills turn a beautiful gold, adding a seasonal charm to an already exceptionally beautiful city and Margaret Island in particular is stunning at this time of year for an autumn walk along the river. For a European city break in October that combines grand architecture, incredible food and spa culture with great value for money, Budapest is one of the most rewarding destinations on the continent. Hungary in October is cool, golden and deeply atmospheric, exactly the kind of city break October was made for.
17. Milan, Italy
Milan in October makes for a brilliant city break in Europe in October but why I’ve put it on this list is because two of Italy’s most beautiful lakes are nearby and can be easily visited from the city, or one of Milan’s airports. Lake Como in October and Lake Garda in October are both at their absolute finest with the surrounding hillsides are turning gold and amber, temperatures sit at a comfortable 14–18°C and the lakeside villages of Bellagio, Varenna and Sirmione can finally be explored at a genuinely relaxed pace.
Milan itself is worth a day, or a few hours if you have time. The Duomo, the Brera district and the world’s most famous opera house La Scala are all on the doorstep — but with the lakes just 45 minutes to an hour away by train, or car, Milan makes for one of the most effortlessly well-rounded autumn city breaks in Europe. For good weather in Europe in October combined with world class art, food and scenery, Milan and the Italian Lakes in October is a combination that is very hard to beat.
18. Seville, Spain
To be honest, most of Spain is a winner in October with streets still buzzing and comfortable warm temperatures (even if the locals are in coats by October!), but Seville is a particularly good option for a city break in Europe in October. After the brutal heat of a Sevillian summer where temperatures regularly top 40°C, October brings the city back to life at a very comfortable 22–26°C, warm enough to sit outside in the famous tapas bars of the Triana neighbourhood and explore the grand Alcázar palace gardens without breaking a sweat.
This is when Seville belongs to the Sevillanos again rather than the summer tourist crowds, and the difference in atmosphere is huge because the streets, markets and flamenco bars feel genuinely authentic in a way that the peak season simply cannot offer making this one of the most culturally rich autumn city breaks in Europe you can plan. For anyone looking for warm weather in Europe in October combined with outstanding food, culture and atmosphere, Spain in October does not get better than Seville.
Related Posts: Southern Spain Itinerary COMPLETE GUIDE – Short or Long Trip!
19. Athens, Greece
For a warm city break in Europe in October that combines ancient history with Mediterranean sunshine, Athens in October belongs firmly on your radar. With temperatures hovering around 20–23°C and an average of seven hours of sunshine a day, Athens is one of the best cities to visit in Europe in October for those who want genuine warmth without travelling long haul, and at just 3.5 hours from most UK airports it is one of the most accessible sunny city breaks in Europe in October too.
October is genuinely the sweet spot for visiting the Greek capital with the summer heat and the crowds at the Acropolis reducing. Beyond the Acropolis, the colourful street art and independent coffee shops of Exarcheia, the Ottoman-era bazaars of Monastiraki and the rooftop bars of Psiri with their uninterrupted views across the ancient city make Athens one of the most layered and fascinating European capitals to visit in October. The sea around Athens is often still warm enough for swimming through October, and a day trip to the Saronic Islands or Cape Sounion adds a beach dimension to what is already an exceptionally well-rounded trip. Greece in October is one of Europe’s most consistently brilliant autumn choices.
I hope this guide to the best places to go in Europe in October helps you plan a trip!
- More related posts:
- 22 BEST Countries to Visit in OCTOBER! Autumn Colours & Good Weather
- 10 BEST Caribbean Islands to Visit in OCTOBER – Good 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
- 16 BEST Winter Sun Destinations in Europe & Nearby!