Where to go in October: autumn destinations between nature, cities, and the sea

October is a month that offers unique travel opportunities: on the one hand, the autumn landscapes, with American cities and New England forests tinged with red and gold, on the other, the chance to discover less crowded and more affordable destinations thanks to the so-called shoulder season . It's that time of year when the summer tourist influx has subsided, but the great waves of winter vacationers have yet to begin.

Furthermore, for those looking for a change of scenery, just look to the Southern Hemisphere , where October coincides with spring: an invitation to enjoy nature's awakening in destinations like South Africa or Argentina. In short, with its colors, favorable climate, and more affordable prices , this month proves to be an ideal opportunity to get away, and these are the best destinations to go in October !

Fuerteventura, for a sunny autumn escape

With its spectacular, almost alien-like scenery, Fuerteventura captivates anyone seeking a sunny autumn escape . This island, the second largest of the Canary Islands, boasts volcanic landscapes that seem to be from another planet, and while the rest of Europe faces cold days and gray skies, October here has a completely different feel.

The beaches are the real jewel in the island's crown: immense expanses of golden sand that go from the long and bright Playa del Matorral to the remote, wild and uncontaminated Cofete , without forgetting the majestic dunes of the Corralejo Natural Park .

Loire Valley, strolling among castles

October is the perfect time to discover the Loire Valley , one of France's most fascinating regions, renowned for its vineyards , Renaissance castles , and picturesque postcard-perfect villages . An absolute must-see during this period is the Château de Sully-sur-Loire , which boasts a truly magical setting. The leaves are dressed in golden hues , the warm autumn sun illuminates the façade, and the cucurbits reign supreme in its gardens.

At Chambord Castle , instead, stroll through its countless rooms and climb the famous double-helix staircase, which can be accessed from either side: this will lead you to the terraces and the incredible views they offer of the estate and the French gardens that extend below. Don't miss the fifteen kilometers of cycle paths and numerous walking trails immersed in autumn colours!

Cape Town, where autumn smells like spring

Cape Town is an ideal destination to visit in October, when the southern spring reaches its peak and nature explodes with color. It's the perfect time to experience the city outdoors : you can stroll among the spectacular blooms of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens , indulge in a tour of the Franschhoek vineyards, or simply relax by the sea.

The beaches here are irresistible: Camps Bay offers unforgettable views of Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles, while Windmill Beach , a short walk from Boulders Beach, wins you over with its clear waters and scenic boulders ideal for diving.

Edinburgh, among the gothic atmospheres of Halloween

Visiting Edinburgh in October means discovering the Scottish capital at one of the most enchanting times of the year. The days are starting to get shorter, but the city alights with autumnal colors : parks like Holyrood and The Meadows transform into carpets of golden leaves, while the imposing Arthur's Seat offers spectacular views of the city bathed in warm hues.

Cool, yet not yet freezing, temperatures make for pleasant strolls along the Royal Mile or through the medieval alleys of the Old Town , where the gothic atmosphere perfectly complements the Halloween season. It's no coincidence that in October, Edinburgh celebrates festivals and events related to folklore and legends , offering unique experiences from ghost tours to cultural evenings. For whisky lovers , it's also the perfect time to warm up in one of the many historic pubs!

Türkiye, between history and nature at the right temperatures

In Turkey , October offers mild, pleasant temperatures, perfect for exploring cities and archaeological sites without the intense heat of summer or the crowds of peak tourist season.Istanbul , with its majestic mosques and lively bazaars, offers an even more evocative atmosphere in autumn, while in Cappadocia , lunar landscapes and hot air balloon flights take on golden hues under the autumn light.

The Turkish coast, from Antalya to Bodrum , is also still ideal for enjoying a few days at the beach, with a climate that allows you to relax on the beaches or visit ancient ruins overlooking the Mediterranean . October is therefore the perfect time for those seeking a trip that combines culture, nature, and relaxation!

Kalamata, for a mythological and gastronomic journey

While Athens continues to attract crowds of tourists until late autumn, Kalamata offers a quieter and more authentic way to discover Greece in October . Located in the Peloponnese, this city is famous for its olive oil , and during this period, you can observe the preparations for the harvest, an experience that captures the true essence of the region.

The historic center, with its terracotta roofs, cobbled streets, and traditional taverns, invites you to stroll leisurely, perhaps after visiting the lively market held twice a week. Dominating the city is the medieval castle , which offers splendid panoramic views. October is also perfect for outdoor activities: from the long beaches, ideal for relaxing away from the summer heat, to hiking on Mount Taygetos . Finally, for history buffs, a trip to Sparta offers a journey back in time to antiquity, including the theater, the Acropolis, and the Leonidas Monument.

Seychelles, for those who don't want to miss out on a swim out of season

Finally, October is one of the best times to visit the Seychelles , when the climate is stable and pleasantly warm, with temperatures hovering around 27°C. Rainfall is scarce and the sea is calm and crystal clear, ideal conditions for activities such as snorkeling and diving , thanks to extraordinary underwater visibility that allows you to admire coral and tropical fish.

The islands offer picture-perfect beaches, such as Anse Lazio on Praslin or Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue , perfect for those seeking relaxation and breathtaking views. This month, you can also watch sea turtles lay their eggs , a unique naturalistic experience!