October beckons us to fully embrace all things autumn and to embark on a new adventure.
Whether this is discovering captivating new destinations, or revisiting a much-loved spot that evokes timeless memories.
From celebrating Halloween in the sunshine to enchanting city breaks to crisp autumn walks in the shape of a cosy staycation, the possibilities are endless!
If you are wondering where to go on holiday in October, you have come to the right place!
Cornwall
As far as October staycations go, the beautiful county of Cornwall is pretty hard to beat.
Whilst anywhere in the UK weather wise can be a mixed bag, but when it comes to wondering where to go on holiday in October in the British Isles, you are more likely to have a better chance of sunnier days in the South West.
October is a fantastic time for taking long walks along Cornwall’s famously beautiful cliffs where you can take in the fresh air whilst admiring those impressive views with those vivid green colours fading to those warm, autumnal hues.
Head on over to the wilds of Bodmin Moor which is one of Cornwall’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you will see countless ancient monuments and a plethora of plants as well as some rare and protected wildlife.
Foodies will adore exploring the country’s foodie scene which demonstrates that there’s so much to eating out beyond the quintessential scones and pasties.
From Padstow to Penzance and everywhere in between, be prepared to be stunned by Cornwall’s seafood whether this is served up at rustic beachside cafés or in one of the county’s countless fine dining restaurants.
Gran Canaria
Nature is a big appeal of Gran Canaria, but there’s endless things to do on this sunshine-soaked island which receives on average 7 hours of sunshine a day.Â
Temperatures in Gran Canaria in October normally hits around 22ºC making this a great choice for sunseekers to chase the sun if warmer climes are high on your where to go on holiday in October list.
The mild climate offers visitors to the island ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors and to immerse yourself into nature.
If you love to hike, October is an ideal time to pay Gran Canaria a visit as each year, the island holds the Gran Canaria Walking Festival, an event where hiking enthusiasts can join forces and discover the island’s hidden natural secrets while walking along spectacular trails.
However, if you are just looking to fly and flop and take advantage of the island’s fantastic beaches, then you will not be disappointed as there are countless powdery shores to stretch out on.
Our favourite all-rounder is beach is the Maspalomas beach which is flanked by the Maspalomas Dunes Nature reserve which is beautiful at any time, but especially stunning when it comes to getting that insta-worthy shot at sunrise and sunset.
If you want to take advantage of a sunny break but still want to enjoy all things Halloween, then GC is an ideal place for you as they go BIG when it comes to celebrating the canarian version ‘Noche de los Finaos’ where local festivities will be spookily spectacular!
Not into ghosts and ghoulies? Not to worry as visitors can expect a myriad of lively cultural events, ensuring a delightful experience for all who visit Gran Canaria in October.
Seychelles
The Seychelles makes for a pretty stellar getaway at any time of the year, but if you are considering where to go on holiday in October, then this idyllic archipelago has to be front and centre of your priority list.
From the amazing beaches to the natural beauty which includes lush rainforests and some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on the planet, the Seychelles in October unveils a true paradise where you can opt to swim in the crystalline turquoise waters trying to cool off from the tropical heat.
If you prefer more of an aquatic adventure, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life will easily entice snorkelers and divers to explore their azure depths.
Visiting the Seychelles in October is also ideal for those who love wildlife as it marks the beginning of the nesting season for sea turtles.
What could be more magical than watching these majestic creatures in their natural surroundings?
Whether you favour horse riding, golf, or even taking a boat trip, there are so many exciting and enthralling things to do in the Seychelles, the question is where do you start?!.
Lake Como
Italy is always a yes when it comes to deciding where to go on holiday in October or any other month in fact.
However, it’s during October where Italy hits its sweet spot as the summer crowds disperse but the weather remains pleasant without being stifling.Â
Lake Como is a perennial gem thanks to its pristine blue waters and the breathtaking views of the Alps’ foothills and other stunning scenery.
Of course, then there’s the unforgettable wine, the mouthwatering cuisine, the dreamy ambience and the general feeling of living ‘La Dolce Vita’.
From admiring the architecture to getting your paddle on, if you are looking to ‘Como’ on over to Italy in October you can fully expect to have a sensational time wherever you visit in the region.
From Bellagio’s cosmopolitan allure to the raw beauty of Nesso, why not take a road trip around Lake Como?
Bellagio is often referred to as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’ has a real cosmopolitan and elegant vibe thanks to its cobbled, flower-strewn streets and its pastel-hued houses which are oh so insta-worthy! It’s never been easier to catch a vibe in Lake Como.
The Algarve
There are so many reasons to add The Algarve to your ever-burgeoning where to go on holiday in October list.
In autumn, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices whilst still enjoying the warm weather which reaches an average 24°C.Â
The Algarve has some of the most beautiful walking trails in the world making it a smart choice for hikers.
From traversing the Ria Formosa nature reserve to walking along the spectacular coastline, you will love the different trails that are just waiting to be explored.
However, the Algarve isn’t just about day time jaunts, it also has an incredible nightlife too in the shape of beach clubs, boat parties and some of the liveliest bars in the region.
If you prefer your nocturnal time in The Algarve to be a little bit more on the DL, then why not opt for a quiet meal with you and your favourite people.Â
Eating out in the Algarve is an absolute delight, even in autumn, locals and tourists tend to eat dinner al fresco.
From carabineiros to cataplana de marisco, you had better pack your appetite as you won’t leave the table with anything other than a full belly.
Derry
‘Catch yourself on!’ Of course, Derry has to be on your where to go on holiday in October list.
Firstly, it’s THE setting for the hit TV show ‘Derry Girls’ where protagonist Erin Quinn and her friends are immortalised in paint on one of the city walls.Â
One of the main reasons to head over to Derry in October is that you can be part of Europe’s largest Halloween Festival where you can enjoy everything from spooky storytelling to wicked workshops which includes pumpkin carving, costume decorating, make-up courses, spooky doll designs and more.Â
If ghostly adventures are not your thing, there’s still plenty of things to do in Derry, from exploring the 400 year old city walls to stand up paddle boarding.
Make sure you take some time out to explore the famous Derry walls before you go.
Derry is officially the only completely walled city in Ireland and it’s one of the best examples of a walled city in Europe.
The walls were initially built between 1613-1618, and were used to defend the city against early 17th century settlers.
There’s no doubt that Derry is a vibrant city of culture and character that makes for a great city break.
Mexico
Mexico is one of those unique destinations that offers an intoxicating mix of the old and the new and it’s one of the best places to consider when thinking about where to go on holiday in October.
From the cosmopolitan Mexico City which has garnered a reputation for fantastic museums, incredible architecture and of course the amazing culinary scene.
Head over to the bustling Zócalo where you can admire the views of the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral whilst enjoying a coffee and watching displays of Aztec dancing and music.
One of the standout museums is the Museo Frida Kahlo, an absolutely fascinating museum dedicated to the life and work of Frida Kahlo.
It has an impressive collection of Kahlo’s artworks which provides a real insight into her prolific work.
If you are looking for a relaxing break, head on over to Tulum – a town on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It’s known for its beaches and well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city.
With soft sands, jade waters and a relaxed and friendly vibe – Tulum makes for a fantastic place to visit in October and beyond.
Be sure to visit the dramatic Tulum Ruins– a sublime collection of Mayan ruins that is one of the most visited archaeological attractions in Mexico
Malaga
Malaga is a cosmopolitan hub that draws visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture, interesting museums, and unforgettable atmosphere.
The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years, with its Andalusian heritage adding a touch of Moorish magic to its charms.
Art fans will love visiting Malaga, the birthplace of everyone’s favourite neo-classical Cubist, the one and only Pablo Picasso and a visit to The Picasso Museum Málaga is certainly worth a visit.
It contains more than 200 separate pieces of work which are carefully curated into dedicated exhibitions to help visitors gain a greater insight into his artistic process.
As one of the oldest cities in Europe, there’s so many things to see and do in Malaga and whether you are into your ancient history, are into your contemporary art or love Spanish cuisine, you can guarantee that you will definitely be adding Malaga to your must visit list.
Porto
Whilst Porto is a fascinating city at any time, we can’t help but think that it’s the ideal answer when considering where to go on holiday in October.
In early to mid-autumn, the weather in Porto remains pleasantly warm without being too hot making it a fantastic choice for a city break where you are doing lots of sightseeing.
This enchanting city on the northwest coast of Portugal is synonymous with port and wine and visiting Porto in October means that the grape harvest in the surrounding Douro Valley is in full swing.
Wine lovers can pay a visit to one of the region’s many quintas – a traditional wine estate where you can go wine tasting or even take part in the traditional grape treading.
One advantage of visiting Porto in October is that the beaches close by are significantly quieter which means that you can enjoy a relaxing day on one of Porto’s best beaches without jostling for position without the jostling crowds.
You can’t fail to be charmed by the medieval UNESCO-listed old town which sits on the banks of the River Douro and take some time out to people watch whilst enjoying a glass of port at Porto’s riverside Cais da Ribeira.
Miami
One of the best destinations that effortlessly blend an impressive combination of both the beach and a thrill-a-minute city, Miami is one of the coolest places on earth and has to be a contender when deciding where to go on holiday in October.
From the vibrant art deco buildings that nestle against the dazzling blue Miami skies and ocean to indulging in some of the best seafood in the city, there’s no doubt that Miami has an unmistakable allure that captivates and invigorates.
When it comes to shopping, Miami delivers on so many levels. Whether you favour vintage one offs, designer threads or quirky boutiques, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to making some serious sartorial choices.
However, if shopping is not your bag, there are still so many wonderful things to do in Miami.
From exploring the intriguing art scene to dancing the night away at one of the city’s nightclubs.Â
Foodies will delight in Miami’s varied restaurant scene where you can indulge in culinary Cuban treats, rock-n-roll diners and Michelin-starred cuisine that is simply unforgettable.
Cornwall
As far as October staycations go, the beautiful county of Cornwall is pretty hard to beat.
Whilst anywhere in the UK weather wise can be a mixed bag, but when it comes to wondering where to go on holiday in October in the British Isles, you are more likely to have a better chance of sunnier days in the South West.
October is a fantastic time for taking long walks along Cornwall’s famously beautiful cliffs where you can take in the fresh air whilst admiring those impressive views with those vivid green colours fading to those warm, autumnal hues.
Head on over to the wilds of Bodmin Moor which is one of Cornwall’s designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where you will see countless ancient monuments and a plethora of plants as well as some rare and protected wildlife.
Foodies will adore exploring the country’s foodie scene which demonstrates that there’s so much to eating out beyond the quintessential scones and pasties.
From Padstow to Penzance and everywhere in between, be prepared to be stunned by Cornwall’s seafood whether this is served up at rustic beachside cafés or in one of the county’s countless fine dining restaurants.
Gran Canaria
Nature is a big appeal of Gran Canaria, but there’s endless things to do on this sunshine-soaked island which receives on average 7 hours of sunshine a day.Â
Temperatures in Gran Canaria in October normally hits around 22ºC making this a great choice for sunseekers to chase the sun if warmer climes are high on your where to go on holiday in October list.
The mild climate offers visitors to the island ample opportunities to explore the great outdoors and to immerse yourself into nature.
If you love to hike, October is an ideal time to pay Gran Canaria a visit as each year, the island holds the Gran Canaria Walking Festival, an event where hiking enthusiasts can join forces and discover the island’s hidden natural secrets while walking along spectacular trails.
However, if you are just looking to fly and flop and take advantage of the island’s fantastic beaches, then you will not be disappointed as there are countless powdery shores to stretch out on, but our favourite all-rounder is beach is the Maspalomas beach which is flanked by the Maspalomas Dunes Nature reserve which is beautiful at any time, but especially stunning when it comes to getting that insta-worthy shot at sunrise and sunset.
If you want to take advantage of a sunny break but still want to enjoy all things Halloween, then GC is an ideal place for you as they go BIG when it comes to celebrating the canarian version ‘Noche de los Finaos’ where local festivities will be spookily spectacular!
Not into ghosts and ghoulies? Not to worry as visitors can expect a myriad of lively cultural events, ensuring a delightful experience for all who visit Gran Canaria in October.
Seychelles
The Seychelles makes for a pretty stellar getaway at any time of the year, but if you are considering where to go on holiday in October, then this idyllic archipelago has to be front and centre of your priority list.
From the amazing beaches to the natural beauty which includes lush rainforests and some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on the planet, the Seychelles in October unveils a true paradise where you can opt to swim in the crystalline turquoise waters trying to cool off from the tropical heat.
If you prefer more of an aquatic adventure, vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life will easily entice snorkelers and divers to explore their azure depths.
Visiting the Seychelles in October is also ideal for those who love wildlife as it marks the beginning of the nesting season for sea turtles.
What could be more magical than watching these majestic creatures in their natural surroundings?
Whether you favour horse riding, golf, or even taking a boat trip, there are so many exciting and enthralling things to do in the Seychelles, the question is where do you start?!.
Lake Como
Italy is always a yes when it comes to deciding where to go on holiday in October or any other month in fact.
However, it’s during October where Italy hits its sweet spot as the summer crowds disperse but the weather remains pleasant without being stifling.Â
Lake Como is a perennial gem thanks to its pristine blue waters and the breathtaking views of the Alps’ foothills and other stunning scenery.
Of course, then there’s the unforgettable wine, the mouthwatering cuisine, the dreamy ambience and the general feeling of living ‘La Dolce Vita’.
From admiring the architecture to getting your paddle on, if you are looking to ‘Como’ on over to Italy in October you can fully expect to have a sensational time wherever you visit in the region. From Bellagio’s cosmopolitan allure to the raw beauty of Nesso, why not take a road trip around Lake Como?
Bellagio is often referred to as the ‘pearl of Lake Como’ has a real cosmopolitan and elegant vibe thanks to its cobbled, flower-strewn streets and its pastel-hued houses which are oh so insta-worthy! It’s never been easier to catch a vibe in Lake Como!
The Algarve
There are so many reasons to add The Algarve to your ever-burgeoning where to go on holiday in October list. In autumn, you can take advantage of fewer crowds and lower prices whilst still enjoying the warm weather which reaches an average 24°C.Â
The Algarve has some of the most beautiful walking trails in the world making it a smart choice for hikers.
From traversing the Ria Formosa nature reserve to walking along the spectacular coastline, you will love the different trails that are just waiting to be explored.
However, the Algarve isn’t just about day time jaunts, it also has an incredible nightlife too in the shape of beach clubs, boat parties and some of the liveliest bars in the region.
If you prefer your nocturnal time in The Algarve to be a little bit more on the DL, then why not opt for a quiet meal with you and your favourite people.Â
Eating out in the Algarve is an absolute delight, even in autumn, locals and tourists tend to eat dinner al fresco.
From carabineiros to cataplana de marisco, you had better pack your appetite as you won’t leave the table with anything other than a full belly.
Derry
‘Catch yourself on!’ Of course, Derry has to be on your where to go on holiday in October list.
Firstly, it’s THE setting for the hit TV show ‘Derry Girls’ where protagonist Erin Quinn and her friends are immortalised in paint on one of the city walls.Â
One of the main reasons to head over to Derry in October is that you can be part of Europe’s largest Halloween Festival where you can enjoy everything from spooky storytelling to wicked workshops which includes pumpkin carving, costume decorating, make-up courses, spooky doll designs and more.Â
If ghostly adventures are not your thing, there’s still plenty of things to do in Derry, from exploring the 400 year old city walls to stand up paddle boarding.
Make sure you take some time out to explore the famous Derry walls before you go.
Derry is officially the only completely walled city in Ireland and it’s one of the best examples of a walled city in Europe. The walls were initially built between 1613-1618, and were used to defend the city against early 17th century settlers.
There’s no doubt that Derry is a vibrant city of culture and character that makes for a great city break.
Mexico
Mexico is one of those unique destinations that offers an intoxicating mix of the old and the new and it’s one of the best places to consider when thinking about where to go on holiday in October.
From the cosmopolitan Mexico City which has garnered a reputation for fantastic museums, incredible architecture and of course the amazing culinary scene.
Head over to the bustling Zócalo where you can admire the views of the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral whilst enjoying a coffee and watching displays of Aztec dancing and music.
One of the standout museums is the Museo Frida Kahlo, an absolutely fascinating museum dedicated to the life and work of Frida Kahlo, it has an impressive collection of Kahlo’s artworks which provides a real insight into her prolific work.
If you are looking for a relaxing break, head on over to Tulum – a town on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
It’s known for its beaches and well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city. With soft sands, jade waters and a relaxed and friendly vibe – Tulum makes for a fantastic place to visit in October and beyond.
Be sure to visit the dramatic Tulum Ruins – a sublime collection of Mayan ruins that is one of the most visited archaeological attractions in Mexico
Malaga
Malaga is a cosmopolitan hub that draws visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture, interesting museums, and unforgettable atmosphere.
The city boasts a rich cultural tapestry and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years, with its Andalusian heritage adding a touch of Moorish magic to its charms.
Art fans will love visiting Malaga, the birthplace of everyone’s favourite neo-classical Cubist, the one and only Pablo Picasso and a visit to The Picasso Museum Málaga is certainly worth a visit.
It contains more than 200 separate pieces of work which are carefully curated into dedicated exhibitions to help visitors gain a greater insight into his artistic process.
As one of the oldest cities in Europe, there’s so many things to see and do in Malaga and whether you are into your ancient history, are into your contemporary art or love Spanish cuisine, you can guarantee that you will definitely be adding Malaga to your must visit list.
Porto
Whilst Porto is a fascinating city at any time, we can’t help but think that it’s the ideal answer when considering where to go on holiday in October.
In early to mid-autumn, the weather in Porto remains pleasantly warm without being too hot making it a fantastic choice for a city break where you are doing lots of sightseeing.
This enchanting city on the northwest coast of Portugal is synonymous with port and wine and visiting Porto in October means that the grape harvest in the surrounding Douro Valley is in full swing.
Wine lovers can pay a visit to one of the region’s many quintas – a traditional wine estate where you can go wine tasting or even take part in the traditional grape treading.
One advantage of visiting Porto in October is that the beaches close by are significantly quieter which means that you can enjoy a relaxing day on one of Porto’s best beaches without jostling for position without the jostling crowds.
You can’t fail to be charmed by the medieval UNESCO-listed old town which sits on the banks of the River Douro and take some time out to people watch whilst enjoying a glass of port at Porto’s riverside Cais da Ribeira.
Miami
One of the best destinations that effortlessly blend an impressive combination of both the beach and a thrill-a-minute city, Miami is one of the coolest places on earth and has to be a contender when deciding where to go on holiday in October.
From the vibrant art deco buildings that nestle against the dazzling blue Miami skies and ocean to indulging in some of the best seafood in the city, there’s no doubt that Miami has an unmistakable allure that captivates and invigorates.
When it comes to shopping, Miami delivers on so many levels. Whether you favour vintage one offs, designer threads or quirky boutiques, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to making some serious sartorial choices.
However, if shopping is not your bag, there are still so many wonderful things to do in Miami.
From exploring the intriguing art scene to dancing the night away at one of the city’s nightclubs.Â
Foodies will delight in Miami’s varied restaurant scene where you can indulge in culinary Cuban treats, rock-n-roll diners and Michelin-starred cuisine that is simply unforgettable.
