October is a magical time for travelers. As the northern hemisphere transitions from summer to fall, a crisp autumn air replaces the sweltering heat. The peak season crowds have thinned out, offering a more relaxed and authentic travel experience with better value.
Whether you’re chasing the fiery hues of fall foliage or seeking a final dose of sun on a tranquil, off-season escape, this shoulder season offers a diverse range of memorable trips. Lets dive in to your ultimate guide to the best places to travel in October.
Why Travel in October?
Traveling in October has many benefits that make it one of the best times of the year to explore the world.
Shoulder Season Advantages
- Fewer tourists: Enjoy popular sites and natural parks with less crowding and more space.
- Lower prices: Take advantage of off-peak hotel rates, airfares, and tour deals.
Diverse Travel Options
- Autumn adventures or sunny escapes: Whether you want pumpkin patch strolls or sunbathing by the sea, October delivers.
Cultural Highlights
- Festivals, food, and charm: Experience local harvest festivals, autumn foods, and start-of-season cultural celebrations. We’ll allow you to enjoy a pumpkin spiced latte as well…
Ideal for Outdoor Activities
- October offers perfect conditions for leaf peeping, tackling hiking trails, apple and pumpkin picking, and brisk walks under brilliant fall colors.
Best Places to See Fall Colors in October
In the Northern Hemisphere, October is prime time for one of nature’s greatest shows. The vibrant, burnt oranges and deep reds of autumn make for a truly breathtaking fall foliage display.
New England, USA
The undisputed king of autumn travel, New England is a bucket-list destination for anyone who loves fall colors. A road trip through this region is a fun-filled way to experience its unique charm.
- What to See: Drive the iconic Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire or visit Acadia National Park in Maine, where the autumn colors of the pine forests contrast beautifully with the dramatic coastline.
- What to Do: Embrace the season with classic fall activities like apple picking at a local farm, navigating a corn maze, or simply strolling through charming towns like Woodstock, Vermont, or Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for USA in 2025.
- Find out when is the best time to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina
For a different kind of American fall, head south to the Appalachian Mountains. The iconic Blue Ridge Parkway is a 469-mile scenic road trip that reveals vibrant foliage, jaw-dropping mountain views, and countless hiking trails, all beneath a canopy of crisp autumn air.
- What to See: Mid-October is often the peak season for foliage in the higher elevations, painting the mountain ranges with a tapestry of gold, red, and orange.
- What to Do: Stop at numerous overlooks for photo opportunities, explore the many hiking trails, and discover the vibrant mountain city of Asheville at the parkway’s southern end.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for USA in 2025.
- Find out when the best time is to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Bavaria, Germany
Europe’s fall colors are just as stunning. Bavaria’s fairytale landscape comes alive with color in October.
- What to See: The serene shores of Lake Tegernsee are surrounded by pine forests and mountains that glow with burnt orange hues. The contrast of the deep blue lake with the vivid foliage is a sight to behold.
- What to Do: Combine your leaf-peeping with a scenic road trip through the German Alps, stopping in quaint villages for a taste of traditional Bavarian hospitality.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Germany in 2025.
- Find out when the best time is to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Warm & Sunny October Destinations
If you’re not quite ready to let go of summer, October offers some of the best places to travel for warm weather. These destinations provide a welcome escape from the cooler temperatures and the chance to enjoy a sunny afternoon on the beach.
Greek Islands (e.g. Crete, Rhodes)
The Greek Islands are a perfect example of why October is the ideal shoulder season. The summer heat has subsided, but the weather remains pleasant, and the azure sea is still warm for swimming.
- What to See: With fewer tourists and fewer cruise ships, you’ll have more space to explore ancient ruins and picturesque villages.
- What to Do: Enjoy lazy days on the beach, explore the laid-back towns, and savor fresh Mediterranean cuisine without the peak season crowds.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Greece in 2025.
- If you would like a specific guide to exotic destinations like Mykonos, have a look at this guide too. happen to be in Mykonos, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Greece in 2025.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
October is a great time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. The rainy season is ending, leading to clear skies and lower humidity.
- What to See: The city is a vibrant, fun-filled hub of culture and history. The pleasant temperatures are ideal for exploring the bustling streets.
- What to Do: Take a food tour to sample delicious street food, visit historical sites like the Cu Chi Tunnels, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of this dynamic city.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Vietnam in 2025.
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Ho Chi Minh in 2025.
- Check out our Vietnam Visa Guide.
- Check out our Ultimate Guide to Discovering the Safest Countries in Asia.
South Korea
While famous for its fall colors, South Korea also offers a great off-season travel experience with crisp mornings and clear skies, perfect for city exploration and hiking.
- What to See: The pleasant temperatures make it a fantastic time for sightseeing in cities like Seoul or Busan.
- What to Do: Take a stroll through a palace garden, hike in a national park like Seoraksan, or participate in one of the many autumn festivals celebrating the harvest time.
Travel guides:
- Find out when the best time is to book flights,
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
- Check out our Ultimate Guide to Discovering the Safest Countries in Asia.
Wildlife & Nature Experiences
October is a prime month for unique wildlife and nature encounters around the world. The changing seasons bring new opportunities for unforgettable experiences.
Churchill, Canada
For a truly unique, bucket-list trip, head to Churchill, Manitoba, in Canada. This is prime time for polar bear watching as the bears begin gathering on the shores of Hudson Bay.
- What to See: October is prime polar bear season, as the bears gather on the shores of Hudson Bay, waiting for the ice to freeze so they can hunt.
- What to Do: Book a seat on a Tundra Buggy to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Luxury Travel Drop in Canada.
- Find out when the best time is to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Baja California, Mexico
Off the coast of Baja California, the warm, clear waters are teeming with life.
- What to See: October is a fantastic time for swimming with whale sharks, the largest fish in the ocean, as well as humpback whales. The warm weather and low humidity create a perfect environment for ocean activities.
- What to Do: Take a boat trip to snorkel or dive with these gentle giants in a truly unique and awe-inspiring experience.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Mexico in 2025.
Norway / Iceland
As the days grow shorter and the nights longer in the northern hemisphere, October is an excellent time for viewing the northern lights, or aurora borealis.
- What to See: The clear skies and fewer crowds in the shoulder season make these destinations a perfect spot to witness this spectacular natural light show.
- What to Do: Join a guided tour for the best chances of seeing the lights, and enjoy the dramatic landscapes of these beautiful countries.
Travel guides:
- Find out when the best time is to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Cultural & City Breaks in October
Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make October an ideal month for a city break or a deep dive into local culture.
London, UK
London is a city that never disappoints. In October, the weather is pleasant and the parks are ablaze with autumn colors.
- What to See: Hyde Park and Regent’s Park are especially beautiful this time of year. With fewer tourists, you’ll find more space to visit iconic sites like the Tower of London or the British Museum.
- What to Do: Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, explore a new neighborhood, or cozy up in a historic pub after a long day of sightseeing.
Travel guides:
- Discover Top Hotels and Activities in London.
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the United Kingdom in 2025.
Lake District, UK
For a more tranquil cultural experience, the UK’s Lake District is a poetic landscape of lakes and fells that transforms in autumn.
- What to See: Golden trees line the serene lakes, creating a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere.
- What to Do: Take an autumn hike to admire the scenery, stay in a cozy town, and explore the local culture and history of the region.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for the United Kingdom in 2025.
- Find out when is the best time to book flights.
- Find out when’s the Best Day to Book a Hotel for Maximum Savings and Convenience.
Kyoto, Japan
Japan’s autumn colors, known as “koyo,” are as celebrated as its cherry blossom season. October is the beginning of the season in some areas, offering a beautiful cultural experience.
- What to See: Ancient temples and gardens are set against a backdrop of brilliant red and gold maple trees.
- What to Do: Take cooking classes, visit historic sites, and stroll through the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Travel guides:
- Check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Japan.
- Discover Top Hotels & Activities in Tokyo.
- Check out our Ultimate Guide to Discovering the Safest Countries in Asia.
Tips for Travelling in October
- Pack for variety: Weather can shift quickly; bring layers and a rain jacket.
- Book early for best deals: Shoulder-season savings are popular, especially in sought-after destinations.
- Check local events: Harvest festivals and national holidays add authentic flavor to your trip!
- Choose intimate stays: Opt for private rooms or boutique lodgings for a memorable, cozy experience.
Travala Tip: If you’d like to travel at the year’s end instead, check out the Best Places to Travel in December on a Budget!
Book Your October Getaway with Travala: Crypto-Friendly, Curated Travel Options
Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal town, desert escape, tropical island, or bustling city, Travala makes it easy to find the best destinations to visit in Autumn.
With access to over 3 million travel products worldwide, Travala allows you to easily find the perfect hotels, flights, and activities for your budget-friendly trip, all on a single platform.
Travala also provides unrivaled payment flexibility, enabling you to book travel with over 100 cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and stablecoins like USDT and USDC. Book today and explore more destinations to visit during spring!
START YOUR CRYPTO TRAVEL JOURNEY NOW!
[Book Travel] | [Loyalty Program]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where is the best place to see fall foliage in October?
For a quintessential fall trip, the best places to travel in October for fall foliage are in the New England region of the USA. A road trip through New Hampshire on the Kancamagus Highway or a visit to Vermont offers breathtaking fall foliage. Additionally, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is a top destination, as are certain parts of Germany like Bavaria, and the mountainous regions of South Korea.
Q: What are good warm-weather destinations in October?
If you’re seeking warm weather, the best places to travel in October for warm weather include the Greek Islands, which enjoy sunny days and an azure sea with fewer tourists. Southern Portugal’s Algarve region offers pleasant temperatures, while destinations like Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Baja California, Mexico, are also great options as their rainy or high seasons end.
Q: Is October a good time to visit Europe?
Yes, October is a fantastic time to visit Europe. It’s the ideal shoulder season with pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower prices compared to the peak summer season. You can experience the stunning autumn colors in the Lake District, UK, or explore cities like London and Munich with more space and a relaxed atmosphere.
Q: Where should I travel to avoid crowds in October?
October is a great month to avoid the peak season crowds. Consider destinations that have just finished their high season, such as the Greek Islands and the Algarve in Portugal. These spots offer a laid-back atmosphere and more space. Many national parks and cities also see a significant drop in visitors, making them perfect for a quieter trip.
Q: What wildlife experiences are available in October?
October is a prime month for unique wildlife encounters. It’s the best time to travel in October to see polar bears in Churchill, Canada, as they gather on the shores of Hudson Bay. In Baja California, Mexico, you can swim with whale sharks and spot humpback whales in warm weather.
Q: What should I pack for an October trip?
Packing for an October trip requires versatility. The key is to pack layers, including a mix of short- and long-sleeved shirts, a warm sweater or fleece for cooler evenings, and a reliable rain jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring cities or hitting the hiking trails.
Q: Is it cheaper to travel in October?
Yes, it is generally cheaper to travel in October. As a shoulder season, flights and accommodations are often more affordable than during the busy summer months. This makes it a great time to find better value and book private rooms or unique experiences at a lower cost.
Q: Are tourist attractions still open in October?
Yes, most tourist attractions remain open in October, especially in major cities and popular destinations. While some seasonal businesses in resort towns might close at the end of the month, the majority of landmarks, museums, and national parks are fully operational. Many even offer unique events tied to the harvest season.
Q: What are the best cities to visit in October?
The best places to travel in October for city breaks include London, UK, where the parks are filled with autumn colors and the weather is pleasant. In Asia, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Seoul, South Korea, offer clear skies and lively cultural experiences. Kyoto, Japan, is also a beautiful option for early autumn colors and temple visits.
Q: Is it safe to travel in October weather-wise?
Yes, traveling in October is generally safe weather-wise. The risk of intense summer heat and severe storms is often lower. However, destinations in the northern hemisphere might experience cooler temperatures and rain, so it’s wise to check the specific forecast for your destination and pack a rain jacket just in case. For tropical locations, it’s a good idea to check if the rainy or hurricane season has fully ended.
