As the summer draws to a close and the realisation that winter is soon upon us suddenly kicks in, October can be a largely gloomy time of year. But, it doesn’t have to be. Wondering where is hot in October? We’ve rounded up our favourite places in Europe and beyond, which make for an attractive autumn escape.
Better yet, there are also loads of things to see and do in these destinations too. Whether you’re holidaying as a family on a half-term break or seeking some early winter sun with your partner, these places to go in October may even make the month feel like the new July…
1. Rome, Italy
Kicking off our list with a city break probably wasn’t quite what you expected, but October is the perfect time to visit the Eternal City of Rome. Blistering temperatures over the summer will have simmered down, and so will the crowds of people. You’re more than likely to enjoy sightseeing in the sunshine with a pleasant breeze drifting through the ancient, winding streets.
Weather: Max: 25 degrees (approx.) | Min: 15 degrees (approx.)
Highlights:
- Outdoor dining at this time of year can feel like quite a novelty in other parts of the world, but not here. Evenings will still be balmy, perfect for enjoying vino and carbonara beneath pink and orange sunsets.
- On the first Sunday of the month, Rome’s civic museums are free to enjoy.
- Take a trip down the Tiber and view the wonders of this ancient city from a new perspective on the water.
Where to stay: Check out our gorgeous apartments in Rome.
Read more: 3 Days in Rome, Best Food to Try in Rome & Best Historical Sites in Italy.
2. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
This popular stretch of coast in southern Croatia is still hot in October. Comprising gorgeous pebble beaches and quaint port towns that conceal cool artsy districts and unmatched seafood spots, you won’t be left wanting for excitement here. As night descends, quiet streets become a hive of activity with a hip bar culture.
Weather: Max: 24 degrees (approx.) | Min: 14 degrees (approx.)
Highlights:
- A haven for nature lovers, you can enjoy cycling, hiking, swimming and snorkelling along this gorgeous Mediterranean coastline peppered with rocky outcrops and lush forest.
- Settle down in the evening at a konoba (tavern) and try some traditional fare paired with superb wine.
- Taking place in October are Split Film Festival, where creatives of the film industry descend on the city, and the Good Food Festival in Dubrovnik which offers organised gastronomic routes and wine tastings.
Where to stay: check out our stunning villas on the islands of Brač and Hvar.
Read more: Where to stay on the Dalmatian Islands or our Dalmatian Coast travel guide.
3. Madeira, Portugal
Even though the summer crowds have dwindled, Madeira remains an alluring destination in October, offering a mix of cultural events, natural beauty, and pleasant weather. October marks the end of the grape harvest season, a time of celebration and festivity across the island. One of the standout events is the Madeira Wine Festival, a lively celebration where you can participate in traditional grape treading, enjoy folkloric performances, and, of course, sample the island’s famous wines.
Weather: Max: 24 degrees (approx.) Min: 17 degrees (approx.)
Highlights:
- October’s cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to explore Madeira’s unique “Levadas” (irrigation channels) that double as walking paths through the lush Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These trails offer stunning views of waterfalls, verdant valleys, and the island’s diverse flora.
- The Madeira Nature Festival is an annual event that celebrates the island’s rich natural heritage. It includes a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, paragliding, and mountain biking, as well as cultural experiences such as traditional music and dance performances. The festival is perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
- Visit the Botanical Gardens and Monte Palace. With Madeira’s subtropical climate, the island’s gardens are a must-see. The Botanical Gardens in Funchal and Monte Palace Tropical Garden allow you to enjoy the diverse plant species, intricate tile work, and panoramic views over Funchal.
- The sea remains warm enough for swimming and other water activities like snorkelling, diving, and even whale watching. Madeira’s clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it a prime spot for underwater adventures.
Where to stay?
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious retreat or a cosy guesthouse, our range of luxury villas in Madeira will suit any traveller’s needs. Opt for a stay in Funchal to be close to the island’s vibrant culture, or choose a more secluded location for a peaceful escape.
Read more:
For more detailed information, check out our Madeira Travel Guide and discover our top accommodation picks on the island.
4. Costa del Sol, Spain
The Costa del Sol is always a good idea. It’s in the name. Sunshine is pretty much year-round in this eternally popular corner of the world and there no time like the end of the season to catch some rays as the throngs of tourists start to trickle away. All along this coast frequented by a well-heeled clientele, you’ll find incredible restaurants with Michelin stars, unending activities and sumptuous places to stay.
Weather: Max. 26 degrees (approx.) | Min: 13 degrees (approx.)
Highlights:
- You can’t miss the town of Marbella with its numerous golden beaches, throbbing nightlife and a beautiful backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains. Nearby, there’s also the flashy resort town of Puerto Banus with its boutique-lined marina, filled with jaw-dropping gin palaces.
- If you can tear yourself away from the coast, head into the hills for achingly gorgeous hikes among rolling pine forests and stumble upon tiny traditional towns and villages or pueblos.
Where to stay? We’ve got a wide variety of villas to rent on the Costa del Sol, so why not check them out and treat yourself?
Read more: see our top 10 properties on the Costa del Sol and the best beaches in the area.
5. Kalkan, Turkey
Turkey is a country that not only has one of the world’s best cuisines (in our opinion!) but is also a gateway to both Asia and Europe. Its southern coast buzzes with beautiful and exciting resort areas with stunning beaches and turquoise waters, but you’ll also find a multitude of hidden beauty spots and natural wonders.
Weather: Max: 28 degrees (approx.) | Min: 15 degrees (approx.)
Highlights:
- You simply cannot holiday to Turkey and not experience Turkish massage and hammam. There are numerous excellent spas in the Kalkan area to indulge in for a full afternoon from which you will leave clean, refreshed and glowing.
- For those more in search of adventure, Kalkan is known for its awesome water sports offerings. The craggy coastline offers exceptional snorkelling and scuba opportunities, or explore above the water by kayak or join a sailing trip.
- The area also has a choice of beach clubs – the ideal spot to dunk into the azure water from a platform in between sun-tanning sessions with a cocktail in hand!
Where to stay? From cottages to villas, check out our beautiful holiday villas in Kalkan.
Read more: take a deep dive into the area with our Kalkan travel guide and find out the best beaches in the area.
6. Morocco
Morocco enjoys high temperatures for most of the year, and visiting in October can actually be a more pleasant experience than during the summer months when the heat is far more than we Brits are used to!
Weather: Max: 28 degrees (approx) | Min: 15 degrees (approx)
Highlights
- Take advantage of the cooler weather and explore the stunning Atlas Mountains. You’ll find various tours and guides wherever you’re staying in Morocco, which are recommended if you want to make the most of the experience and discover more about the diverse terrain and hidden hilltop villages.
- A hugely populated and dense city, Morocco’s capital of Marrakesh can be uncomfortable during the height of the summer. However, October is, therefore, the ideal time to slowly take your time and stroll the streets of the city, sampling spices, and other traditional wares.
- For a taste of the local culture, head to the Erfoud Date Festival. This three-day festival happens every October in the town of Erfoud and celebrates the end of the date harvest. Thousands of local farmers, producers and tourists attend, making a lively and unique experience.
Where to stay? From traditionally inspired abodes to sleek and modern homes, check out our villas to rent in Morocco now.
Read more: Top Day Trips From Marrakesh
Now you know where is hot in October, what’s stopping you from grabbing your holiday journal and getting planning? The late autumn sun is already waiting for you!
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