As the leaves begin to change and the weather gets cooler, many people are looking for ways to escape the chilly temperatures. Luckily, there are plenty of great places to travel in October. From sunny beaches to historic cities, there are plenty of options for every type of traveler. Here are 10 of the best places to travel in October.
The 72 Best Places to Travel
1. The Greek Islands
If you’re looking for a trip that will help you get your fall travel fix without leaving the country, head to Greece. The islands are still warm enough to enjoy all the best parts of fall and winter, but the cooler weather also means you can enjoy more beaches and fewer crowds. One of our favorite places to visit in Greece is Mykonos.
This small island is known for its high-end shopping and nightlife, but the real star of the show is the beach. Mykonos is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, so you can spend all day lounging by the water without ever having to leave.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, Santorini is another popular Greek island for fall travelers. The landscape of this island changes dramatically with the time of day, making it feel like you’re on a different island every day.
2. Queenstown, New Zealand
If you’re looking for a fun city to explore in the fall, Queenstown is an excellent choice. This small town in the South Island of New Zealand is known as the adventure capital of the world. From skydiving and bungee jumping to ziplining and mountain biking, there’s a lot to do in this exciting city. One of our favorite places to visit in Queenstown is Coronet Peak. This beautiful mountain provides incredible views of Lake Wakatipu.
3. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Planning a trip to Bora Bora in October? You’re going to need a lot of time. The weather in this part of the world can change quickly, especially during the fall and winter. If you’re looking for an island that feels like it is from another planet, Bora Bora is a great place to visit. One of our favorite places to visit in Bora Bora is Le Jardiniere. This restaurant has an extraordinary view of the ocean and offers amazing seafood.
4. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is known for its glitzy nightlife and exciting hotels. However, Las Vegas is also home to incredible outdoor activities. You can enjoy a scenic drive through the Red Rock Canyon or take a hike along Lake Mead.
These outdoor activities will help you forget all about the Vegas strip.
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a sprawling city that feels like it will always be in motion. One of our favorite places to visit in Buenos Aires is Palermo Soho. Here, you can find plenty of beautiful buildings and historic sites.
6. Kennebunkport, Maine
For many people, fall means heading back to the beach, but you don’t have to travel far to enjoy the best parts of fall in the United States. Kennebunkport is a small beach town in Maine that feels like it is straight out of a fairy tale. You’ll find beautiful beaches, quaint shops, and great restaurants all within walking distance of each other.
If you love the outdoors, you’ll fall in love with Kennebunkport.
7. Scandinavia
Scandinavia is home to some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. You can experience the crisp, clean air and stunning vistas of the Nordic countries in the fall. If you love to explore and don’t mind cold temperatures, head to Norway, Denmark, or Sweden.
8. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is one of our favorite cities in Mexico. Located just north of the Caribbean Sea, this city has some incredible beaches and nightlife. If you’re looking to get away for a few days, Puerto Vallarta is one of the best cities in Mexico to explore in the fall or winter.
9. Rome, Italy
Rome is full of exceptional architecture and history. You can experience the history and culture of ancient Rome by walking along the Tiber River.
Or, visit the Colosseum or the Pantheon. These are just a few of the incredible attractions that make Rome one of our favorite cities in Europe.
10. Barbados
Barbados is a tropical island paradise with some of the best beaches in the world. If you want to explore the island in style, consider chartering a yacht for the day. You’ll want to pack a swimsuit since you can enjoy some incredible beachside swimming.
11. Tahiti
Tahiti has some of the most beautiful beaches and water in the world. You can explore the South Pacific islands by day and enjoy a night out at one of the many spectacular waterfront restaurants. If you love the ocean, you’ll love Tahiti!
12. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is home to some of the most iconic sights in all of Australia. This city is great in the winter and fall months, when it isn’t too hot and when it isn’t too cold. Check out the Sydney Opera House, Taronga Zoo, and the famous Opera House Aquarium.
13. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a small beach town located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. You can explore this picturesque area by hiking to scenic views or by boat. This is a great place to enjoy fall colors and fresh air. If you love the outdoors, consider spending some time in Bar Harbor.
14. The Alentejo, Portugal
If you love European history and culture, the Alentejo region of Portugal is sure to please you. This region is home to the ancient city of Évora. You can also explore the beautiful hilltop villages and castles in the picturesque countryside.
15. San Diego, California
San Diego is one of our favorite cities in the United States. This city has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the country. You can experience all of San Diego’s natural beauty without ever leaving the city limits!
16. Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is a small beach town located on the East Coast. This is a great place to enjoy the ocean and explore some of the amazing mansions that line the shoreline. Newport is also one of the best cities in the country to sample American cuisine.
17. Hilo, Hawaii
If you love exploring the natural beauty of Hawaii, consider visiting Hilo. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, Hilo is home to green rolling hills and beautiful waterfalls. You can explore Hilo by car, bike, or simply by foot.
18. Key West, Florida
Key West is one of the most unique cities in the United States. This city is filled with colorful characters, Cuban culture, and gorgeous weather. Key West is best experienced during the winter, when you can enjoy all of these things without the summertime crowds.
19. Newport Beach, California
Newport Beach is one of the most beautiful beach communities in Southern California. You can find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world in this area. Newport Beach is also filled with a variety of top-notch restaurants, including some of the best seafood in the country.
20. Hassayampa River, Arizona
The Hassayampa River winds through the beautiful Sonoran Desert in Arizona. This river is home to some of the most spectacular rock formations in the country. If you love exploring the desert, be sure to check out this scenic area.
Best Places to Travel in October for Fall Foliage
Fall is finally here, and with it, the promise of crisp autumn days, cooler temperatures, and all the beauty that comes with the season. In honor of this change in weather, we’re counting down our favorite places to visit in October for fall foliage. From leaf-peeping in Canada and New England to enjoy the changing of the seasons in California and Italy, there are plenty of fun fall getaways this year.
21. New England
The Northeast is where you’ll find the most autumnal vibes in the fall, from New England’s leafy woods to the hills of Vermont. In New England, you can find some of the country’s best towns for fall activities, including leaf peeping and apple picking. New England is also filled with historic sites and charming inns, such as our favorite in Vermont, The Green Mountain Inn.
22. Niagara Falls, New York
Niagara Falls offers some of the best views of the falls at any time of year.
In fact, this is the best time of year to see the falls, when the weather is clear and crisp, but the water is still less than 50 degrees fahrenheit. Not only does Niagara Falls offer more than enough fall foliage, but it’s also home to a host of fun fall activities, from Halloween to wine tasting.
23. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park offers some of the most majestic views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Fall is a great time to visit Yosemite National Park, when the weather cools down but trees are still full of color.
24. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park has been ranked as one of the best national parks in the country. Located on the tip of the Greenpoint Peninsula in Maine, Acadia National Park offers some of the most outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island.
25. Vermont
Vermont is one of our favorite fall getaways in the United States. Located on the border of New Hampshire and Massachusetts, Vermont offers a host of charming towns and historic sites, including the Green Mountain Inn, where you can enjoy a visit to the beautiful Green Mountains.
26. Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont
Smugglers’ Notch offers some of the best views of the Northeast Kingdom and the White Mountains. If you’re looking for a quaint, rustic autumn getaway, Smugglers’ Notch is the place to go.
27. Adirondack Mountains, New York
The Adirondack Mountains offer some of the most scenic views of fall foliage in New York state.
Located on the border of New York and Canada, the Adirondacks are a beautiful place to explore with friends and family, especially in the fall. Fall is also a great time to see the region’s famous apple orchards.
28. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is a beautiful place to enjoy the changing of the seasons. Located on Massachusetts’ southernmost coast, Cape Cod offers some of the most charming towns and beaches in the Northeast.
29. New York City
New York City is home to one of our favorite cities in the country, so we’re sure you’ll love it too. Known for its diverse culture and breathtaking views, New York City offers plenty of fall activities you won’t want to miss.
30. Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is a scenic place to see the fall colors. Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of our favorite fall destinations because you can enjoy the autumn colors of the iconic mountain.
31. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers some of the most scenic fall foliage in the country. Located in the southeastern United States, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, abundant wildlife, and some of the most picturesque views of fall.
32. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park offers some of the most scenic autumn foliage in New England.
Located on the tip of the Greenpoint Peninsula in Maine, Acadia National Park offers some of the most outstanding views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island.
33. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires are a perfect place for a fall getaway.
Known for its charming villages, scenic views, and ample cultural opportunities, the Berkshires are a great place to see fall from the mountains.
34. Long Island, New York
The Long Island landscape is beautiful in autumn.
Located on New York’s North Shore, Long Island offers some of the most picturesque views of the fall season.
35. Northern Michigan
Northern Michigan offers a host of scenic fall destinations.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers ample opportunities to see the beautiful autumn colors.
36. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is a picturesque place to enjoy the changing of the seasons.
Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Lake Tahoe is a scenic destination that offers plenty of fall activities and festive colors.
37. Maine’s Mount Desert Island
Some of the most scenic fall colors can be seen on Mount Desert Island.
Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Mount Desert Island offers some of the best views of fall colors in all of New England.
Best Places to Travel in October for Halloween
October is a great time to take a trip because the weather is still warm and your kids can trick or treat without bundling up. If you’re looking for a place to visit, consider these 10 best destinations for Halloween travel.
38. Casper, Wyoming
Casper is known for its historic downtown and its haunted history. Known as the “Falling Star of Doom,” Casper is a quirky and historic city that often tops lists of the best places to visit in October.
39. Knott’s Soak City, Buena Park, California
Knott’s Soak City is one of Southern California’s most unique water parks.
Located in the Orange County suburb of Buena Park is Knott’s Soak City, a unique water park with a twisting interior that is perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
40. Hastings on the Hill, Hastings-on-Hudson, New York
If you want to get away from the big city, visit Hastings on the Hill.
An idyllic village in the Hudson River Valley, Hastings on the Hill is a small town with lots of history and charm perfect for a fall getaway.
41. Diavolo, Danbury, Connecticut
Diavolo is one of the largest haunted houses in the country.
Diavolo is a massive haunted house in Danbury, Connecticut that will keep your whole family entertained for hours.
42. The Great Pumpkin Farm, North Grafton, Massachussets
The Great Pumpkin Farm is a corn maze, hay ride, and farm-themed amusement park in North Grafton.
If you’re looking for a fun fall activity, the Great Pumpkin Farm is a great place to take your family.
43. West Virginia Mardi Gras, Fairmont, West Virginia
Travel to West Virginia for the biggest Mardi Gras celebration in the country.
The West Virginia Mardi Gras takes place in Fairmont every year and is a huge celebration with Carnival-style costumes, music, and plenty of food.
44. Pumpkin Festival, Tom’s River, New Jersey
The annual Pumpkin Festival in Tom’s River offers a corn maze, hayrides, face painting, and more.
Located in South Jersey, this fall festival is perfect for families who want to enjoy the season together.
45. Hershey, Pennsylvania
Over 500 acres of Hershey, Pennsylvania is home to the Chocolate World theme park.
If you’re a chocolate fan, you won’t want to miss out on visiting the Chocolate World theme park in Hershey.
46. The Big Apple, New York City, New York
The Big Apple is a great way to experience the city as you explore Central Park and Manhattan.
Explore Central Park with The Big Apple Bus and see the city’s most famous sites like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square from the comfort of your bus.
47. The Great American Campout, Bluffdale, Utah
The Great American Campout offers more than 50 hikes in some of the most beautiful areas in Utah.
This fall, gather up your family and head to one of many hikes in Utah’s beautiful Wasatch Mountains.
48. Pumpkin Festival, New Windsor, New York
The annual Pumpkin Festival in New York’s Hudson Valley offers a corn maze, hayrides, face painting, and more.
Located in Westchester County, the annual New York Pumpkin Festival is a family-friendly event with plenty of activities to enjoy.
49. The Great American Campout, Walnut Creek, California
The Great American Campout offers more than 50 hikes in some of the most beautiful areas in California.
This fall, gather up your family and head to one of many hikes in California’s beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.
50. Pumpkin Festival, Clinton, Maryland
Celebrate fall with a beautiful farm and corn maze at the annual Clinton, Maryland Pumpkin Festival.
Located in Calvert County, this event is perfect for families who want to enjoy the season together.
51. Harvest Festival, Auburn, Maine
Enjoy a beautiful fall weekend at Harvest Festival in Auburn, Maine.
Located in the picturesque northeast corner of Maine.
Harvest Festival in Auburn offers a fall weekend full of camping, sightseeing, arts and crafts, and more.
52. The Great American Campout, Shasta Lake, California
The Great American Campout offers more than 50 hikes in some of the most beautiful areas in California.
This fall, gather up your family and head to one of many hikes in California’s beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains.
53. Apple picking, Washington D.C.
Washington, D.C. is home to an abundance of apple orchards.
Approximately 20 Washington, D.C. neighborhoods are home to apple orchards that offer an idyllic fall experience.
54. Halloween, New York City, New York
New York City is home to a variety of Halloween events.
Best Places to Travel in October for Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is an annual festival in Munich, Germany that honors the marriage of beer and culture. It has since become a global event, with many cities and towns holding their own festivals to celebrate the marriage of food and drink. In terms of travel, Oktoberfest is one of the best times of year to visit Munich as prices for accommodations are significantly lower. Moreover, the weather during the festival is typically ideal, with the sun shining and temperatures in the 60s (Fahrenheit) and 30s (Celsius). In addition, the beer served at Oktoberfest is usually of high quality, and allows visitors to experience the festival in style.
55. Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Munich is the best place to visit Oktoberfest in the fall.
Oktoberfest is an annual festival in Munich, Germany that honors the marriage of beer and culture. It has since become a global event, with many cities and towns holding their own festivals to celebrate the marriage of food and drink. In terms of travel, Oktoberfest is one of the best times of year to visit Munich as prices for accommodations are significantly lower.
Moreover, the weather during the festival is typically ideal, with the sun shining and temperatures in the 60s (Fahrenheit) and 30s (Celsius). In addition, the beer served at Oktoberfest is usually of high quality, and allows visitors to experience the festival in style.
56. Fall Craft Brew Festival, Boston, Massachusetts
Fall Craft Brew Festival offers a variety of fall-themed events in Boston, Massachusetts.
The Fall Craft Brew Festival in Boston, Massachusetts offers an array of fall-themed events in September.
The festival takes place every year in September, and it is one of the best fall festivals in Boston.
57. Harvest Festival, Auburn, Maine
Enjoy a beautiful fall weekend at Harvest Festival in Auburn, Maine.
Located in the picturesque northeast corner of Maine, the Harvest Festival in Auburn offers a fall weekend full of camping, sightseeing, arts and crafts, and more.
58. Fall Food Truck Festival, Portland, Maine
Fall Food Truck Festival offers an array of fall-themed events in Portland, Maine.
The Fall Food Truck Festival in Portland, Maine offers a variety of fun fall-themed activities.
The festival takes place every year in September, and it is one of the best fall festivals in Portland, Maine.
59. Fall Foliage Drive, Great River Road, New York
Enjoy fall foliage on the scenic New York State Route 17.
Fall Foliage Drive offers a scenic drive in New York to see the breathtaking fall foliage.
The drive along New York State Route 17 is one of the best fall drives in the Northeast.
60. Fall Foliage Trail, Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina
Foliage Trail offers a scenic drive in North Carolina.
The Fall Foliage Trail in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina is another great fall drive.
The drive along Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the best fall drives in the region.
61. Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
Enjoy a German-style Oktoberfest celebration in Munich. Munich’s Oktoberfest is world-renowned for its beer, food, music, and traditions. The festival takes place annually in late September or early October, and it is a fun event for visitors to Munich.
62. Oktoberfest, Brasov, Romania
Enjoy a traditional German-style Oktoberfest celebration in Brasov, Romania. Brasov’s annual celebration of beer, music, and traditions is one of the best Oktoberfest celebrations in the world.
63. Dia de Los Muertos Celebrations, Mexican Border Towns
Experience Dia de Los Muertos celebrations across the U.S./Mexican border. Dead, is a Mexican holiday that celebrates the deceased. During this celebration, Mexicans dress up in costume, make offerings to their deceased loved ones, and decorate their houses with marigolds, paper hand prints, and more.
Dia de Los Muertos celebrations take place in many cities along the U.S./Mexican border.
While you are in Mexico celebrating, be sure to experience Dia de Los Muertos celebrations in Tijuana, San Diego, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Houston, El Paso, and other destinations.
Best Places to Travel in October for Autumn
October is one of the best times to visit a destination. The weather is starting to cool down in places like the United Kingdom and the United States, while it is still warm in other parts of the world. Even though you may want to travel during the summer, there are many things to do at this time of the year instead.
Europe
64. Belfast, Northern Ireland
Visit Belfast, Northern Ireland’s Titanic Quarter, and explore the city’s rich history. Belfast is an exciting destination in Northern Ireland for visitors to experience its rich history. The city is home to the Titanic Quarter, a new district that pays homage to Belfast’s maritime history.
65. Grimsby, England
Grimsby is one of England’s best hidden gems. Located on the North Sea, Grimsby is one of England’s best hidden gems. Located just north of the Humber Estuary, Grimsby is a charming destination that has a rich maritime history.
66. London, England
Experience London’s rich history. Visiting London is an exciting way to experience the UK’s capital city. London is home to many historical sites and beautiful landscapes that are perfect for exploring during autumn.
67. The Beatles Story, Liverpool, England
Tour the former home of The Beatles in Liverpool.
The former home of The Beatles, John Lennon’s childhood home, is a must-see destination for visitors to Liverpool, England. Located just off of Mathew Street, the Beatles Story includes a tour of the home, and visitors can even sit down with Sir Paul McCartney to discuss the band and their story.
68. Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Walk through the grounds of the world’s most famous mausoleum. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal is a beautiful and impressive mausoleum in Agra, India. While you are in Agra and Agra Fort, you should also walk through the grounds of the mausoleum.
69. British Royal Family, London
Get closer to the British Royal Family. Visiting Kensington Palace is an exciting way to get closer to the British Royal Family. The home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, Kensington Palace is one of the UK’s most famous royal residences.
70. Royal Victoria Country Park, Windsor, England
Walk with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall. The Royal Family makes their home at the historic Windsor Castle, which is one of the United Kingdom’s most famous royal residences.
The Royal Family walks in the park every day and you can walk with them as they make their way through the grounds.
71. Marble Arch Caves, London, England
Walk through an ancient limestone cave system. While walking in Hyde Park in London, look for Marble Arch. This beautiful white marble gateway is known for its three-story arch.
The arch was originally built to connect Oxford Street to Hyde Park, and it has changed over the years. However, the arch’s design has not been altered, and visitors can still enjoy it.
72. The British Museum, London, England
Study anthropology and archeology at the British Museum. Located on the bank of the River Thames, the British Museum is a must-see destination for history. The British Museum is home to some of the world’s most iconic archeological and anthropological specimens.
There are plenty of great places to travel in October, no matter what your interests are. From the Greek Islands to Bora Bora, there’s something for everyone. So get out there and explore!
