Sorry, December. Step aside June. October is the best month for everything, including traveling.
Planning a European vacation in October sounds crazy, until you realize that harvest season brings a cornucopia of cuisine without the chaos of crowds. From Ireland to Italy, Europe’s leaves hit their peak color, spooky decor creeps across the suburban porches, and dinner tables are loaded up with hot ‘n hearty meals.
And, yes, there’s pumpkin spice everything over here, too.
So pack a bag and use that passport one more time before the year ends in one of the best places to visit in October in Europe.
Image credits, Unsplash, Joshua Humpfer. Location, Plitvica Lakes, Croatia.
Where to go on vacation in October
For the sports fan: England. October is the only time in the year that you can say the word “football” in London and correctly refer to the pigskin pastime that Americans know and love. With the NFL bringing 5 teams across the pond, you won’t want to miss the game on international gridiron.
For the leaf peeper: Croatia. If you’re trying to photograph the best fall foliage with the least amount of influencers in the foreground as possible, head to the sweet solitude of Plitvice Lakes. This national park sits on the edge of Croatia, full of color yet empty of tourists.
For the foodie: Italy. There’s never a bad month to get a good meal in Italy, but the harvest season is especially tasty. Head to the north for the International Alba White Truffle Fair and treat your taste buds to arguably the finest truffles Mother Earth can grow.
For the festivities: Either Ireland or Romania. The Emerald Isle lays claim to Halloween’s Celtic origins, and you already know that the Irish know how to throw a party in Dublin. But if you really want to lean into equal parts spookiness and silliness, head to Transylvania for faux yet fun vampire-themed celebrations.
For those who reject autumn’s arrival: Malta. So far south in the Mediterranean that it’s a stone’s throw from Africa, Malta’s temperatures stay warm in October while its tourism rush begins to cool. It’s a little on the humid side, which is totally fine because you’ll be too busy swimming in the sea to notice.
Image credits, Unsplash, Ferenc Horvath. Location, Mellieha, Malta.
Weather in Europe in October
Flannels, flip flops, or fleece: what you pack will depend on where you travel in Europe in October. Let’s compare the climates of a few cities:
- Reykjavik, Iceland: 40℉
- Copenhagen, Denmark: 49℉
- Lyon, France: 55℉
- Rome, Italy: 63℉
- Malaga, Spain: 66℉
- Valletta, Malta: 71℉
Take a look at those average October temperatures and plan accordingly. Venturing into the Scottish Highlands or walking along the canals of Amsterdam? Better bring a jacket. Trying to get one or two more wears out of your two-piece? Follow the birds flocking south to islands in Spain, Italy, and Greece.
Where in Europe is it warmest in October?
Cyprus is often the warmest place in Europe in October. It should come as no surprise: this island in the Med is just off the coast of Lebanon and is geographically considered more in the Middle East than Eastern Europe. Temperatures can rise into the 80s which means you’ll have no choice but to use a beach pail as your trick ‘r’ treat basket.
Image credits, Unsplash, Nick Night. Location, Tallin, Estonia.
Best European cities to visit in October
Looking for more October destination inspiration? Find cheaper hotel rates and thinner crowds at these three European cities.
- Madeira: There’s still plenty of sun worshiping to be had in Portugal in October, just make sure you bring a light jacket for evening beach walks.
- Tallinn: One-third of Estonia’s capital is dedicated to nature which means fall leaves everywhere you look, such as in Tompark outside of Old Town.
- Vienna: Every October, the Long Night of Museums offers you a chance to explore over 100 city museums until 1 AM with a single ticket.
Looking for a train ride that lets you peep leaves in the Alps? We can save you a window seat. Download the Trainline app and make your way to Europe this October.
Header image credits, Unsplash, Lorenzo Castagone. Location, Curtea de Arges, Romania.