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10 places to go in October

Wondering about the best places to go in October? With so many destinations to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin. We've created this handy guide to help you decide where to visit.

 

Updated: 3 July 2026
Updated by: Aleesha Sharma, Copywriter at Explore Worldwide

October is one of the most versatile months for travel as it sits between summer and the festive season. Depending on where you go, it's ideal for autumnal scenery, warm-weather escapes, and cultural events.
 

At a glance

 

1. India

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in October: India's Golden Triangle

Travelling to India in late October is particularly special as you'll get to witness the Diwali celebrations. The ‘festival of lights’ (symbolising good over evil) lasts for five days each year and is characterised by the lighting of thousands of oil lamps or diyas. Houses and public places all glow in the light of hundreds of tiny flames. While you can witness Diwali celebrations throughout India, the Pink City of Jaipur is arguably one of the best spots.
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2. Nepal

Ideal for: walking & trekking
Top trip to book in October: Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

October marks the beginning of Nepal’s trekking season. At the end of the annual monsoon season, everything is vivid green, and mountain views are especially clear thanks to excellent air clarity following the rainfall. Take on this epic nine-day hike to the vast natural amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary, where you'll be surrounded by the magical snow-capped peaks of some of the highest mountains in the world.
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3. Japan

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in October: Japan In Depth - Footsteps of the Shogun

Japan is known for its picturesque cherry blossom season, yet its autumn colours are just as vibrant. October is especially popular with photographers drawn by the spectacular changing colours of the leaves, from green to red, rust, and brown, and the clear blue skies typical of this time of year. Visitors will enjoy travelling by high-speed train and staying in a classic ryokan, furnished in traditional Japanese style.
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A stone lantern stands amidst vibrant autumn foliage, overlooking a traditional arched bridge across a serene pond in a Japanese garden. Red, orange, and yellow leaves cover the ground.

4. Tunisia

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in October: Best of Tunisia

October is a brilliant time to discover Tunisia. The thick heat of the summer has subsided, with milder temperatures to enjoy. As fewer tourists visit at this time of year, you can make the most of swimming in balmy waters, exploring historical sites like Carthage, and camping in the mighty Sahara Desert. October also marks the start of Tunisia's olive harvest, so you can tuck into some of the season's freshest cuisine, too.
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Ancient stone ruins stand with partially-intact columns and archways on a worn, cobbled surface under a clear blue sky, conveying historical significance and architectural grandeur.

5. Portugal

Ideal for: walking & trekking
Top trip to book in October: Walking in Portugal - Remote Coastal Trails

Extend your summer in the sunny Algarve, which gets plenty of sunshine year-round. October is an ideal time of year for a walking holiday in southern Portugal. You can swim in the still-warm sea or at the swimming pool in our hotel in Sagres, and spend the day exploring this beautiful region on foot. The warm sun and cooling Atlantic breezes at this time of year make it a perfect hiking climate.
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Rock formations rise dramatically above clear, shallow waters, creating natural arches. Moss-covered rocks scatter across the seabed under a bright blue sky. The surrounding landscape appears rugged and picturesque.

6. Mexico

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in October: Contrasts of Mexico

Travel to Mexico this October and experience the Day of the Dead celebrations in Oaxaca, which takes on a carnival atmosphere and comes alive with parades and market stalls bursting with flowers and local treats. This is a festival with history: the Zapotecs, Mayans, and the Aztecs all had rituals for marking the death of ancestors. Customs from all three cultures can be seen in the modern Day of the Dead festivities.
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Individuals dressed in colorful traditional attire and ornate skull face paint hold fans, participating in a festive outdoor celebration amidst trees, capturing the vibrant spirit of Day of the Dead festivities.

7. Egypt

Ideal for: families
Top trip to book in October: Family Egyptian Sphinx, Pyramids and Nile River

Avoid the summer heat in Egypt by travelling in October. Sail down the Nile on a traditional felucca boat and feel the breeze gently push our boat upstream. Sit back and watch life on the Nile unfold in much the same way that it has for over a millennium. Explore the awe-inspiring sites of the Valley of the Kings and Aswan and step into the footsteps of ancient Egyptians.
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A sailboat glides across a reflective river under a dramatic sky. Tall buildings and lush greenery line the opposite shore, with a sandy hillside visible in the background.

8. Greece

Ideal for: culture
Top trip to book in October: Greek Island Wanderer

With warm and pleasant temperatures throughout the early autumn months, wander Greece's islands this October. As you hop between iconic and unspoilt islands, you’ll meander glimmering waterfront harbours, admire whitewashed architecture, and indulge in fresh seafood served up at authentic tavernas. Cooler evenings will take the heat off the day, making it perfect for an evening stroll around a quiet city.
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Tables with checkered tablecloths are arranged in an outdoor restaurant setting. An old, rustic building with a staircase and flowering plants serves as the backdrop under a clear blue sky.

9. Spain

Ideal for: cycling
Top trip to book in October: Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia

The extreme heat of the southern Spanish summer mellows into lovely warm autumn days ideal for our Murcia cycling holiday. Take to your bike and discover the beautiful landscapes and vibrant autumnal colours of Murcia against a backdrop of deep blue skies. Cycle on quiet backroads and cycle paths on this moderate-graded trip, and enjoy delicious Spanish food and drink to fuel your days.
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A calm pond reflects autumn trees, their leaves creating a golden canopy. Fallen leaves blanket the surrounding ground, and a park bench sits nearby, enhancing the tranquil, natural setting.

10. Botswana

Ideal for: wildlife
Top trip to book in October: Botswana Wildlife Safari

Water levels are low in Botswana in October, making it an ideal time to see wildlife. At this time of year, animals (including the Big 5) congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot. Join a wildlife safari and stay on a houseboat on the Okavango Panhandle, looking out for water-based wildlife like hippos and crocodiles, as well as exotic birds along the waterline. We’ll also explore Chobe National Park and visit the mighty Victoria Falls.
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A leopard rests on a large, horizontal tree branch, with its limbs dangling. It is surrounded by a soft-focus, natural landscape of dry grass and blurred foliage.



 

Plan your October trip now

If you're looking for a break following the busy summer months but before the festive season is underway, October is one of the best months to travel.

Beyond the destinations and trips mentioned in this article, we have an extensive range of tours available with departures in October.

Discover all October departures

Other ideas for this time of year

10 places to go in September
Wondering where is best to go in September? We recommend ten great destinations just perfect to discover at this time of year.

10 places to go in November
Wondering where is best to go in November? Discover our destination recommendations, from festivals in Bhutan to trekking in Patagonia.

Where to go? Our recommendations by month
Looking for a trip for a specific time but need some inspiration on where to go? Check out our recommendations for the best place to go by month.
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