7 Best Places in Europe to Travel in October 

A lot of tourists, searching for the best moment and location to travel to Europe. They usually end up facing crowds or harsh climates if they choose to visit Europe during the high season.

Tourists and attractions can be incredibly crowded. The climate can become unbearable, which makes an exciting trip rather stressful. Striking the balance of fewer crowds, good weather, and scenic beauty is always hard especially when planning a vacation to Europe.

European traveling is most appropriate in October and this month, travelers can access all parts of Europe. Summer is over and crowds and hot temperatures. Humidity is replaced with beautiful autumn, great weather, and amazing views. – it is time to find sunny places, cultural experiences, and scenic views. To help you plan a stress-free and enjoyable vacation, I will share my own experiences of the best places in Europe to travel in October.

1. Barcelona, Spain

Why travel in October?

October in Barcelona offers pleasant warm weather without the summer heat. Fewer crowds make exploring its cultural attractions and lively districts easy.

Average temperature

About 70°F (21°C) which ranks it amongst the best places to visit in Europe in October for sun. You can stroll around the city and not feel hot, but at the same time, you feel the heat.

Places to visit

Sagrada familia, park Güell and Gothic quarter. October is still good for the sun and sea lovers because the beaches along the Mediterranean coast are not closed yet.

Things to do

Go through the variety of art galleries, swim in the sea, and taste delicious seafood in Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria.

Where to Stay

It is the Eixample district where many attractions are located and it is a lot more calm compared to the very center of the city.

What to Eat

Enjoy the tapas, seafood paella, and some actual churros with chocolate.

Where is Good to Go in Europe in October

2. Santorini, Greece

Why travel in October?

Depending on when in October, the sunsets are just as magical, and the whitewashed buildings are just as picturesque without the crowds. That is the best time to have a view and feel the calmness of the surroundings.

Average temperature

Around 73°F (23°C). It is a great time to go out, but not too hot like it is in the summer and can sometimes be very uncomfortable.

Places to visit

Oia for the sunset, the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and Red Beach.

Things to do

There is a boat tour around the caldera at sunset, visiting the volcanic island of Nea Kameni, and the hike from Fira to Oia.

Where to Stay

Oia and Fira are the two best places to view the caldera. And there are many hotels and guesthouses that provide lovers with exquisite accommodation with a view.

What to Eat

For food, Greeks love Greek salads, moussaka, fresh seafood, and locally made wines.

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Why travel in October?

October is warm, cheap, and full of energy, which is why Lisbon in October is the best time to visit. The festivities start in the city and the weather is still sunny, so the city is one of the best to visit in Europe in October 2024.

Average temperature

It has a moderately warm climate with the average temperature ranging between about 72°F (22°C). It is ideal for such activities as sightseeing and taking walking tours.

Places to visit

Belem Tower, Monastery of the Hieronymite. The Cultural Landscape of the historic districts of Lisbon, including the Alfama District. Many beaches, for instance, those near Lisbon, such as Cascais, are still enjoyable in October.

Things to do

Visit its ancient district of Alfama, take a look at the view from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and don’t forget to ride Tram 28.

Where to Stay

Bairro Alto is known for its night life. Chiado is more prestigious with numerous boutique hotels and luxurious accommodations.

What to Eat

Portuguese dishes you should not miss include pastéis de nata, bacalhau, and sardinhas assadas.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Why travel in October?

The best time to visit Dubrovnik is in October because many tourists have left by then, and the weather is still delightful. It is one of the best European destinations for a relaxing, yet sunny vacation.

Average temperature

Changing from the 70s in the morning to 66°F (19°C) during the day, perfect for sightseeing with no intense summer heat.

Places to visit

The Dubrovnik City Walls, the Old Town and the Fort of St. Lawrence (Fort Lovrijenac). Another way to spend a day is also a boat trip to the neighboring islands, for example, Lokrum.

Things to do

Stroll along the walls for great views, visit the shooting places of Game of Thrones and enjoy the sea shore of the Adriatic Sea.

Where to Stay

The Tema Old Town is easily accessible for sightseeing and there is Lapad, a zone which is more of a quiet beach location.

What to Eat

Sample the delicious seafood delicacies such as black risotto, grilled fish and octopus salad and wash it down with wines.

Where in Europe has the Best Weather in October?

Check out Europe weather updates here.

5. Florence, Italy

Why travel in October?

Florence is an ideal destination in October because its autumn is not very harsh and it rains occasionally. The arts, history and food are just as great as in the high season but the crowds are much thinner.

Average temperature

The average temperature of about 18°C or 64°F, chilly enough for walking in the old town but still quite hot during the daytime.

Places to visit

The most important sights that are must visit include the Uffizi Gallery, Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The countryside of Tuscany is also very near, with great wine yards and picturesque villages.

Things to do

Go to art galleries, stroll in the Boboli Gardens and take a day trip to Pisa or Siena.

Where to Stay

It is advised to stay close to the Duomo to get to all the important attractions. The details of business hotels in Florence: a combination of the medieval and the contemporary comfort.

What to Eat

The foods include bistecca alla fiorentina, pasta and the truffles.

6. Nice, France

Why travel in October?

If you’ve been planning on traveling to Europe in October and you love Sun and not many crowds, then Nice is one of the best cities in Europe to travel in October. The French Riviera is still warm, and the city still has the energy of the Mediterranean season.

Average temperature

Averaging some 70°F (21°C), this is the ideal time to enjoy the beach and the old town.

Places to visit

Promenade des Anglais, Castle Hill and the towns of Monaco and Cannes nearby.

Things to do

Take a walk on the sandy shoreline, visit the vibrant Old Town of Barcelona and go on a day tour around other towns along the coast of Riviera.

Where to Stay

Old Town has character and is close to the beach, the Promenade des Anglais houses upscale sea front hotels.

What to Eat

Sample local food such as socca, a chickpea pancake, salade niçoise and freshly caught fish on the Mediterranean coast.

7. Vienna, Austria

Why travel in October?

October in Vienna is beautiful and graceful, the trees make the beauty of the architecture of the city even more appealing. The cultural season starts in full with concerts, operas and exhibitions.

Average temperature

Around 55°F (13°C), which is suitable for tourists who prefer the climate of autumn.

Places to visit

Historical places such as Schonbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Belvedere Palace. The gardens of Vienna are also aesthetically stunning during autumn.

Things to do

Go to a concert of classical music, look through museums, and take a walk through the old city.

Where to Stay

The Innere Stadt (First District) brings luxury and is in the center of the city; Leopoldstadt is more low-key and affordable.

What to Eat

Being an Austrian city, Vienna’s food is dominated by traditional dishes. Here are schnitzel, apple strudel, and Sachertorte which are recommended in Vienna.

Comparison of All 7 Best Places in Europe to Travel in October

Destination	Average Temperature (°F)	Best Known For	Suitable for
Barcelona, Spain	70	Sunny weather, cultural attractions, beaches	Couples, families, solo travelers
Santorini, Greece	73	Stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, volcanic landscapes	Couples, honeymooners, nature lovers
Lisbon, Portugal	72	Historic architecture, lively atmosphere, affordable prices	Couples, families, budget travelers
Dubrovnik, Croatia	66	Game of Thrones filming locations, medieval walls, Adriatic Sea	Couples, families, history buffs
Florence, Italy	64	Renaissance art, historic architecture, Tuscan countryside	Couples, families, art lovers
Nice, France	70	Mediterranean beaches, French Riviera, vibrant atmosphere	Couples, families, beach lovers
Vienna, Austria	55	Classical music, imperial architecture, autumnal beauty	Couples, families, culture enthusiasts

The Departure

October in Europe is an excellent time to travel to Europe because the weather is comfortable, and the crowds are thinning. Whether you dream of the beautiful warm sun of Santorini or want to have a cultural trip to Vienna, the choice is rather great. So put on your suitcase, embrace the moderate weather, and immerse yourself in the best of Europe. October being the best month to visit. Let’s go to the best places to visit in Europe in October 2024. 

FAQs

Is it cheaper to go to Europe in October?

Yes, going to Europe in October is relatively cheaper than when people go during the summer holidays. Since it is not a really high tourism season, you will find cheaper flights, accommodation, and even tours making it a cheaper time to travel.

Where to find the weather in Europe in October?

Normally, the Canary Islands of Spain is the warmest place in Europe in October. There is a warm climate with an average temperature of 77°F (25°C). The place is blessed with sunny and beach-appropriate temperatures making it perfect for those who want to get warm.

Can I visit Switzerland in October?

Yes, Switzerland is good for tourism in October. Autumn is quite moderate and perfect for sightseeing especially as there are no many tourists compared to the summer. The main attractions include Zurich and the Swiss Alps.