Top October Travel Spots: Where to Go This Fall

October is a great time to travel. The weather is nice, the leaves are colorful, and there are fewer people around. Travel + Leisure's A-List advisors say it's the best month to go on a trip. They love the festivals and events in October. Around the world, October offers a mix of fun and nature. This guide will show you the best places to visit in October.

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9/29/202410 min read

Key Takeaways

  • October is ideal for traveling due to moderate weather and reduced crowds.

  • Enjoy vibrant fall foliage and cultural festivities.

  • Many destinations offer unique events and festivals in October.

  • Discover a blend of natural beauty and historical insights.

  • Top travel destinations in October span across continents providing diverse experiences.

Kyoto, Japan

Autumn in Kyoto is amazing. It draws many visitors who love the beautiful fall colors. This city has some of the most beautiful places to visit in October. It's a great place for a peaceful and pretty getaway.

Exploring Autumn Foliage

Kyoto's fall colors start in late October. The best time to see them is in late November. Eikando Temple is famous for its colorful trees and evening lights.

The Tofukuji Temple is known for its Tsutenkyo Bridge and red maple trees. Arashiyama, especially Togetsu-kyo Bridge, shows off its autumn beauty in late November and early December. Bishamon-do Temple offers a calm fall foliage experience with beautiful reds and yellows.

Recommended Hotels in Kyoto

Choosing the right hotel in Kyoto is important. For luxury, try Sensei Porcupine Creek. It has golf courses and tennis programs.

For hotels near beautiful spots like Arashiyama, Gion, and Higashiyama, book early. This season is very popular, and early booking ensures a great stay.

Local Cuisine and Events

Visiting Kyoto in fall is a treat for the eyes and taste buds. The Kurama Fire Festival in nearby Kurama Village is a highlight. It features men carrying flaming torches through the village streets.

Food lovers can enjoy seasonal dishes at local restaurants. The Autumn Tanabata Exhibition at the Ikenobo Headquarters is also a must-see. It showcases Japanese flower arrangements.

Kyoto is a top choice for October travel. With temperatures around 13°C, it's perfect for enjoying the views, festivals, and food. Kyoto is a memorable autumn destination.

Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany's autumn is amazing with its hills, vineyards, and villages. It's a top spot for October, with nice weather, cultural events, and beautiful views. The leaves change colors, making it perfect for nature fans and wine lovers.

Scenic Drives Through Vineyards

Driving through vineyards in Tuscany's autumn is a must. In October, places like Chianti and Montepulciano are stunning. You can take tours and learn about winemaking, tasting fresh wines.


This weather is great for slow drives and enjoying views. Don't miss Tuscany's autumn for its beauty and culture.

Best Accommodations in Tuscany

Choosing where to stay makes your trip better. Here are top places in Tuscany for fall:

  • Borgo Santo Pietro, Chiusdino: A luxury hotel for relaxing after vineyard tours.

  • Castello di Casole, Siena: A restored castle with luxury rooms and views.

  • Villa Cora, Florence: A villa near the city, mixing old charm with modern comforts.

  • Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, Montalcino: A resort in vineyards for a true Tuscan feel.

Staying in these hotels means a cozy place to come back to. Enjoy Tuscany's autumn, culture, and wine tours for a memorable trip.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a great choice for your October travel bucket list. The sunsets are amazing in October, when it's less busy. You can really enjoy the Greece coastal beauty without the crowds.

"Stunning sunset over the iconic white-washed buildings of Santorini, Greece, with vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple reflecting on the caldera, silhouettes of traditional domed churches and blue rooftops, gentle waves lapping at the shore, scattered clouds illuminated by the setting sun."

Breathtaking Sunsets and Coastal Views

October makes Santorini peaceful. You can see the coast in a calm way. Oia is less crowded, perfect for sunsets.

Hiking trails are fun in autumn. You can explore without the rush. The Red Beach is a quiet spot with red cliffs.

Visiting in October is more comfortable. Buses are less crowded, and you can find rare books. It's easier to enjoy the island without the summer rush.

Finding a place to stay is easier and cheaper in autumn. The Moxy St. Pete offers luxury views. Wine tours are also great, with unique wines from volcanic soils.

Santorini in October is lovely. The weather is warm, and there are discounts. It's a great choice for your October travel bucket list.

New England, USA

Top Spots to Witness Fall Foliage

  • Maine: Coastal Maine is best from late September to early October. Acadia National Park has beautiful trails and colors. Routes like Route 1 and Route 1A offer amazing views.

  • New Hampshire: Its peak foliage is from late September to early October. The White Mountains and Lake Winnipesaukee are popular. The Kancamagus Highway is a 37-mile stretch of beauty.

  • Vermont: Vermont is famous for its fall colors. They are vibrant from late September to early October. Places like Stowe Ski Resort and Mount Snow are great for leaf-peeping.

  • Massachusetts: Peak colors arrive in early October. The Berkshires, Lexington, and Concord are beautiful. Western Massachusetts peaks in the middle two weeks of October.

  • Connecticut and Rhode Island: They show their colors in mid-October. The Litchfield Hills in Connecticut and the Newport Cliff Walk in Rhode Island are perfect spots.

  • New York: Eastern upstate New York, including Adirondack Park, peaks in the first two weeks of October. Letchworth State Park is also great for leaf-peeping.

Book your stay six months in advance for a good spot. Many inns require a two-night stay on weekends. Places like Woodstock Inn in Vermont make the experience better.

The best time for these tours is late September to mid-October. Being flexible helps catch the peak colors.

Marrakech, Morocco

October is a great time for Marrakech cultural tours. The weather is mild, perfect for seeing the city's sights. It also rains a bit, but it's short and makes the air feel fresh.

A vibrant scene of Marrakech's bustling markets in October, showcasing colorful spices, traditional textiles, and local artisans. Include ornate architecture, lively street performers, an array of lanterns glowing under a clear blue sky, and the Atlas Mountains in the background. Emphasize the rich cultural atmosphere and diverse visitors exploring the heart of the city.

Cultural Splendor and Spices

October is a good time because there are fewer tourists. You can explore the spice bazaars and medinas. Places like the Jardin Secret show the city's history with their gardens and buildings.

Morocco autumn travel has special events. The Erfoud Date Festival and Taragalte Festival celebrate local culture. Music lovers can enjoy the MOGA Electronic Music Festival in Essaouira, a beautiful coastal town near Marrakech.

  • Average daytime temperature`: 61°F - 86°F

  • Average rainfall`: 35 millimeters

  • Tourist crowd decrease`: Noticeable compared to summer months

  • Notable events`: Erfoud Date Festival, Taragalte Festival, MOGA Electronic Music Festival, and Marrakech International Marathon

October also has the Anniversary of the Green March. It's a time for parades and cultural events. You can stay in fancy places like The Ritz-Carlton or Bishop's Lodge. They offer comfort and style in this amazing city.

Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest might get all the attention, but Munich has so much more. Autumn makes the city parks look amazing with their fall colors. Every corner of Munich tells stories of the past, letting visitors dive into its rich history.

Historic Sites and Autumn Vibes

Munich's historic sites are even more beautiful in autumn. The Marienplatz is a must-see with its gothic style. Walking through the English Garden, you'll hear leaves crunching under your feet.

The Deutsches Museum and Nymphenburg Palace are great for history lovers. They show Munich's deep history.

A picturesque autumn scene in Munich, Germany, showcasing vibrant fall foliage in the lush English Garden, with historic architecture in the background, golden leaves fluttering in the breeze, a serene river gently flowing through, and people enjoying leisurely walks.

The Frauenkirche and Residenz are also must-sees. They look stunning with the autumn leaves. Munich's U-Bahn makes it easy to get around, so you can see both history and nature.

Recommended Hotels in Munich

Choosing the right hotel is key for a great trip. Whether you're here for Oktoberfest or exploring, there are many luxurious options:

  • Bayerischer Hof: A 5-star hotel centrally located with spa and rooftop bar

  • Mandarin Oriental: A 5-star hotel with gourmet dining, luxury amenities and panoramic views

  • Rosewood Munich: A 5-star hotel in a prime city location featuring contemporary design and wellness services.

  • City Aparthotel Munich: A group-friendly 4-star hotel with modern conveniences and is close to the October beer festival

These hotels offer great service and are near cultural spots and beer festivals. They're perfect for a mix of history and modern comfort.

Cape Town, South Africa

October is a great time to visit Cape Town. It's less crowded and has amazing deals. You can enjoy many adventures in South Africa.

A colorful autumn landscape in Cape Town, South Africa, featuring Table Mountain in the background, vibrant orange and yellow foliage, adventurous hikers on scenic trails, a clear blue sky, and the ocean in the distance.

Table Mountain is a must-see in Cape Town. It offers stunning views of the city and ocean. You can hike up or take the cable car for an easy ride.

The Cape Winelands are just an hour away. Here, you can taste wine in beautiful vineyards. It's perfect for wine lovers.

The Garden Route is great for families. It has beautiful coastal views and cute towns. Madikwe Game Reserve is also a hit for safaris.

Cape Town has many places to stay. The Rockefeller Hotel is luxurious. Camps Bay and Clifton offer ocean views and mountain sights.

Try helicopter tours for amazing views. Or see African penguins at Boulders Beach. Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is lively with food, shops, and fun.

Autumn travel to Cape Town is affordable and fun. English is common, making it easy to get around. You can stay up to 90 days without a visa.

Seville, Spain

Seville is full of life with its history and festivals. The weather in October is just right, with highs of 26°C (79°F). It's perfect for exploring this Andalusian city.

A picturesque view of Seville's historic architecture in autumn, featuring the intricate details of the Alcázar palace, vibrant orange and yellow fall foliage, cobblestone streets, and a lively plaza filled with local artisans and tourists, under a clear blue sky.

Historical Attractions and Festivals

Autumn in Seville is a time to explore history. You can take tours of the city's landmarks. The Real Alcazar is a must-see, with its beautiful Mudéjar architecture.

The Seville Cathedral is also a highlight. It's the biggest Gothic cathedral in the world. And don't forget the Torre de Oro, a 13th-century tower with great views.

Seville's autumn festivals are fun too. While the Feria de Abril is in spring, autumn has its own events. You can enjoy the Seville European Film Festival and more.

Accommodations in Seville

Seville has many places to stay, from luxury to budget-friendly. The Palacio Solecio is a top choice for luxury. It mixes modern comforts with history.

For something different, try the Hotel Amadeus & La Musica. It offers a unique cultural vibe. And don't forget the Seville Pass for easy access to attractions.

Mexico City, Mexico

Traveling to Mexico City in autumn is exciting. It mixes modern charm with old traditions. You'll find lots of cultural events and activities in October.

The city comes alive with Día de Muertos celebrations in October. The Zócalo area is filled with colorful ofrendas. The Templo Mayor museum near the cathedral offers a deep look into these traditions. Plus, the cathedral is free to visit.

"Vibrant autumn scene in Mexico City, showcasing colorful fallen leaves in historic parks, traditional architecture with orange and yellow hues, lively street markets, and people enjoying seasonal festivities under a clear blue sky."

The weather in October is great for exploring. It's warm during the day and cool at night. You can take a food tour or try delicious dishes in Condesa.

The Museo Nacional de Antropología is a must-see. It costs just 80 MXN to enter. You can spend hours here, learning about Mexico's history. Parque Mexico is also a nice place for a walk.

Autumn brings big events like the FICM and Corona Capital music festival. The Bulldog Sport Bar shows free Formula 1 races. It's fun for sports fans.

There are many places to stay in Mexico City. You can choose from chic hotels to festive ones. Andaz Mexico City Condesa offers a 25% discount until November 30th.

There's always something to do in Mexico City. Visit the Templo de Regina Coeli church or use Cabify for cheap rides. Mexico City has history, culture, and fun.

As you explore Mexico City, let its history and culture amaze you. It's a trip you'll always remember.

Bali, Indonesia

October in Bali is a great time to relax. The weather is warm, and the beaches are calm. It's also a good time to see the temples without many people around.

A stunning tropical landscape of Bali in October, featuring lush green rice terraces, vibrant flower gardens, and serene beaches with turquoise waters, under a clear blue sky, dotted with traditional Balinese temples, showcasing a sunset with warm orange and pink hues reflecting on the ocean.

Best Beaches and Temples

Bali's beaches and temples are amazing. Places like the Shangri-La Le Touessrok offer luxury. They make your stay feel like a dream.

Visiting temples in Bali is a special experience. Places like Pura Tanah Lot and Uluwatu are stunning. They show Bali's rich culture and offer beautiful views.

Bali is perfect for relaxing or exploring. You can find great deals on places to stay. This October, discover the beauty of Bali for yourself.

Conclusion

October is coming, and there are many great places to visit. This article showed you some amazing spots for your autumn trip. You can see beautiful leaves in Kyoto, Japan, or explore vineyards in Tuscany, Italy.

Greece is cheap to visit in October, with prices down by 20%. Mexico has the Festival Internacional Cervantino and Day of the Dead. Spain is great for picking chestnuts and tasting wine.

France's Paris has Oktoberfest and art festivals. Hawaii is perfect for snorkeling and surfing because it's dry in October. Places like Mauritius and the Greek Islands offer warm weather for a relaxing trip.

Japan's Alps are rich in history, and Cape Town, South Africa, has beautiful beaches. This guide helps you plan your trip with info on weather, how long to stay, and money.