Best places to travel in October

Looking for a special October getaway? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re after Southern Europe’s final rays of sun without the crowds, a deep dive into Cuba’s culture, or a beach escape in Zanzibar, here are the best places to travel in October. Plus, we’ve included options for every budget and travel style.

1. Rome, Italy

• Why visit: culture, cuisine, pleasant weather and fewer tourists
• Average temperature: 59°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C)
• Average daily budget: $150-$200

If you’ve long been longing to visit Rome, October is a great time to uncover its ancient history without the stifling crowds (and heat) of the summer months. 

From pottering around the Pantheon in relative peace, to al fresco dining on the city’s best pizza, visiting in the Eternal City in October means you can enjoy all the best things to do in Rome in very pleasant conditions. 

Add to this the soft, golden light of fall and the city's glorious gardens displaying dazzling hues of red and orange, and October amounts to a top time to take a city break. 

Looking for a longer vacation? October is also a fantastic month to enjoy day trips from Rome.

Lastly, if you love great food, note that October is harvest season, which means you’ll get to savor seasonal dishes featuring mushrooms, pumpkins and chestnuts. It's also a great time to sample Italian wines as the grape harvest draws to an end.

All that consisdered, Rome might just be the best place to travel in October if you love cuisine, culture and the finest of wine.

Editor’s tip: for inspiration — or to take the hassle out of planning your trip — browse our customizable Italy itineraries.

Where to stay: for a beautiful boutique experience Hotel Farnese  — an aristocratic residence turned into a comfortable hotel — boasts balconies, handmade furniture and great views of the Vatican. 

Meanwhile, if you’re traveling on a budget, try great-value Hotel Major Aventinus. It’s just across the Tiber from Trastevere and offers rooms with views of the garden or street.

2. Kyoto, Japan

• Why visit: stunning fall foliage, festivals and outdoor activities
• Average temperature: 55°F to 73°F (13°C to 23°C)
• Average daily budget: $100-$200 

Renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, October is an enchanting time to visit Kyoto, with locations like Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and the Philosopher's Path being particularly beautiful.

This being shoulder season, October is also a quieter time to explore Kyoto’s temples and gardens in more serene style, with temples like Tofuku-ji and Eikando especially famous for their stunning fall scenery.

October also sees Kyoto stage a couple of memorable festivals, among them the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages). Celebrated on October 22, this features a grand parade with participants dressed in historic costumes.

October’s milder weather also makes it a top time to hike the surrounding mountains, such as Mount Hiei, or the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

All that considered, it’s clear why Japan’s cultural heart is very likely to win you over.

Editor’s tip: For some fresh ideas - or to ease your planning - explore our flexible Japan itineraries.

Where to stay: boasting a prime location in the center of Kyoto, Kyo Maimai, which is also close to the World Heritage Toji Temple, offers a terrace, air conditioning, garden views and a balcony.

Want your own place? Located in the center of Kyoto, Sky Kyoto holiday home has garden views, an inner courtyard and quiet street views.

You can find more amazing accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay in Kyoto.

3. Bangkok, Thailand

• Why visit: post-rainy-season lushness and fewer tourists
• Average temperature: 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$150

Heading to Bangkok — capital of Thailand ­ — for an October vacation will enable you to experience the city’s rich culture, vibrant markets, and stunning temples in a more relaxed and comfortable environment, with the added benefits of fewer tourists and better travel deals.

This being the end of the rainy season, the city’s parks and gardens are lush and green. At the same time, as October sees slightly cooler temperatures — an average range 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C) — visiting top temple attractions like Wat Pho and Wat Saket is far more comfortable, and rewarding.

For the same reason, this is a great month to visit floating markets like Damnoen Saduak and Amphawa. Or how about cruising the Chao Phraya River and exploring Bangkok’s historic canals?

When it comes to food, seasonal fruits like rambutans, longans, and mangosteens are in October, and smaller crowds make it easier to navigate street food markets.

Editor’s tip: If you're after inspiration or a stress-free plan, check out our customizable Thailand itineraries.

Where to stay: if you’re a foodie seeking someplace stylish to stay, try Shanghai Mansion in Chinatown. 

Traveling as a family? Check out Beanstalk Bangkok in the Silom area.

4. Kolkata, India

• Why visit: fab food, warm weather and unforgettable festivals
• Average temperature: 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$160

One of India's four great urban centers, Kolkata is known as the foodie capital of India for very good reason. It’s also a truly ewarding October vacation destination for culture vultures.

And the reasons? Durga Puja — the most important festival of the year for Bengali Hindus — is celebrated here in spectacular style in the Hindu month of Ashvin, which falls in September or October.

Known elsewhere in India as Dussehra, this 10-day festival marks the slaying of the buffalo demon Mahisasura by the ten-armed goddess Durga. 

More generally, it symbolizes the victory of good over evil, and comes to an exhilarating climax with thousands of lavish papier-mâché Durga idols parading through the city’s streets before being immersed in the Hooghly River.

Editor’s tip: Need some ideas? Browse our tailored India itineraries and simplify your travel planning.

Where to stay: for five-star finery and top service in the center, check out The Oberoi Grand. 

Or, if you fancy immersing yourself in nature, consider Vedic Village Spa Resort. It boasts glorious grounds and gorgeous bungalows away from the city.

5. Lisbon, Portugal

• Why visit: culture and culinary treats in comfortable temperatures
• Average temperature: 59°F to 73°F (15°C to 23°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$150

Thanks to its architecture, food and wine, and waterfront setting, Lisbon is a solid year-round destination. If you travel to Portugal for city life, this is where to start.

That said, the Portuguese capital is no secret. For fewer crowds and cooler days, aim for October – you’ll still get sunshine without the shoulder-to-shoulder sightseeing.

The weather in Portugal in October is pleasantly mild, with an average temperature range of 59°F to 73°F (15°C to 23°C). Pretty much ideal for sightseeing the likes of the Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and the Alfama district, and going off the tourist trail. 

While the water will be pretty cool, Lisbon's nearby beaches like Cascais and Estoril are still pleasant for a stroll or a relaxing afternoon.

It’s also a great time to take to the great outdoors. For example, you could hike Arrábida Natural Park, which is just a short drive from Lisbon.

If that wasn’t enough, vacationing in Lisbon in October means you’ll get to enjoy seasonal dishes featuring chestnuts and mushrooms, and freshly harvested wine on a wine-tasting tour.

Editor’s tip: Want to streamline your trip planning? Check out our customizable Portugal itineraries for easy inspiration.

Where to stay: for a luxurious experience, stay in Hotel Avenida Palace, one of Lisbon’s grandest hotels. 

Looking to bed down in the Alfama district? Might we suggest Solar Dos Mouros? Each of the 12 rooms in this townhouse has fantastic views of the river or the castle. 

You can find more great accommodation options in our guide to the best areas to stay in Lisbon.

6. Santorini, Greece

• Why visit: warm weather and fewer tourists
• Average temperature: 63°F to 75°F (17°C to 24°C)
• Average daily budget: $100-$200

Visiting the Greek island of Santorini in October means you’ll get to enjoy its best beaches and hikes — such as the trail from Fira to Oia along the caldera — without the peak summer crowds. If you travel to Greece in autumn, Santorini is one of the most rewarding stops.

While the weather in October will have cooled, the average daily range of 63°F to 75°F (17°C to 24°C) means you can enjoy beautiful strolls and al fresco dining on an island that’s known for its staggeringly awe-inspiring sunsets.

What’s more, the sea remains warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. As such, it might just be the best place to travel in October for European winter sun.

October is also grape harvest season, making it a perfect time to visit the island’s wineries and taste local wines.

With fewer tourists, it’s also a wonderful month to explore the archaeological sites of Akrotiri and Ancient Thera without the peak season crowds.

Editor’s tip: Looking for inspiration? Check out our customizable Santorini itinerary to make trip planning a breeze.

Where to stay: famed for its stunning sunsets, Oia is the premier destination for admiring views of the caldera and the island's legendary sunsets. Many accommodation facilities are perched on the cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the Aegean Sea and the caldera.

On a tighter budget? Located close to Fira, Karterados provides a more budget-friendly alternative to the capital but still offers easy access to its attractions.

You will find more amazing accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay on Santorini.

7. Istanbul, Turkey

• Why visit: cuisine, culture and all that jazz (quite literally!) 
• Average temperature: 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C)
• Average daily budget: $100-$150

Straddling Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a uniquely diverse vacation destination. Though no longer the capital of Turkey, it remains the country’s vibrant economic, intellectual and cultural heart.

The latter is especially apparent in October, when the city hosts the International Istanbul Film Festival, and the Akbank Jazz Festival.

What’s more, the summer tourist rush has ended in October, resulting in fewer crowds at popular attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar. At the same time, with an average temperature range of 55°F to 68°F (13°C to 20°C), sightseeing conditions are comfortable.

Where to stay: for boutique style, the award-winning Georges Hotel is located in a majestic historical building in Galata, the heart of modern day Istanbul. The rooftop restaurant and bar offer spectacular views over the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

Meanwhile, Hotel Ibrahim Pasha is just a 2-minute walk from the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts. Its roof-top terrace offers views of the Blue Mosque, and the service is top-notch. For more information, explore our guide with the best areas to stay in Istanbul.

8. Marrakech, Morocco

• Why visit: culture and adventure in warm weather conditions
• Average temperature: 61°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$150

Though seeing an average temperature range of 61°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C ) — far more conducive to exploring Morocco than during the heady heights of summer — October is outside Marrakech’s peak tourist season. 

As a result, popular attractions — among them the UNESCO-listed Medina, Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Saadian Tombs and Majorelle Garden — are less crowded and offer a more peaceful, immersive experience.

The cooler temperatures and smaller crowds also make exploring Marrakech’s labyrinthine souks more pleasurable. 

The same goes for enjoying outdoor activities, like taking a day trip to hike the nearby Atlas Mountains, or enjoying exhilarating quad biking and horse-riding excursions in the surrounding desert and countryside.

Finally, October sees the city host the Marrakech International Film Festival and the Al Haouz Folklore Festival, the latter of which is an excellent way to experience traditional Moroccan music and dance. 

Editor’s tip: Need some ideas? Browse our tailored Morocco itineraries and simplify your travel planning.

Where to stay: want an upscale, trendy experience? Head to the hip-and-happening Hivernage district, which is home to a host of stylish hotels, among them Hivernage Secret Suites & Garden.

Or, for a taste of tradition — and style — in Northern Medina, try Riad l'Oiseau du Paradis.

You can also find more accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay in Marrakech.

9. Cape Town, South Africa

• Why visit: adventure, spring beauty and whale-watching 
• Average temperature: 52°F to 70°F (11°C to 21°C)
• Average daily budget: $100-$150

Warm and sunny, the weather in Cape Town in October sees the South African city in spring mode. As such, it’s a special time to head north of Cape Town to the West Coast National Park, where wildflower season will be at its peak. 

Related, October a top month to meander Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens — they’ll be in full bloom, and often play host to open-air concerts at this time of year.

If you’re into adventure, embark on a unique moonlit kayaking adventure around Simon's Town. Get lucky, and you might see magical bioluminescent plankton illuminating the waters. Or how about climbing Cape Town’s iconic Lion's Head?

Another special reason to visit Cape town in October is that fact that this is peak whale-watching season around these parts. Just a short drive from Cape Town, Hermanus is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, or you could spot southern right whales from cliff tops or on boat trips from Cape Town.

Editor’s tip: If you're after inspiration or a stress-free plan, check out our customizable South Africa travel itineraries.

Where to stay: nestled in a lush garden estate in the heart of the city, the luxurious Mount Nelson is a 5-star icon of Cape Town.

Alternatively, located in the Bo Kaap district of Cape Town, the 4-star boutique hotel Rouge on Rose is located within easy walking distance of the city center and the V&A Waterfront.

10. Buenos Aires, Argentina

• Why visit: spring weather, outdoor adventure and cultural festivals
• Average temperature: 55°F to 72°F (13°C to 22°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$150

Seductive and cultured, Buenos Aires is an undeniable jewel in Argentina's fascinating crown. And, since the weather in October heralds the start of spring, it’s the perfect time to visit and enjoy the city’s blooming jacaranda trees, which paint the streets in vibrant shades of purple.

The mild-to-warm temperatures also lend themselves to well to outdoor activities, including strolling the city's parks, biking riverside trails, and enjoying a leisurely boat ride in the Tigre Delta.

Staying on the subject of culture, October sees various festivals and events taking place throughout the city. Take your pick from from tango festivals and food fairs, to art exhibitions and Día de la Raza (Columbus Day).

And all this outside the summer peak season, which means more space and freedom to explore, and the potential to bag yourself a bargain on flights and accommodation.

Editor’s tip: Want some inspiration? Browse our customizable Argentina itineraries for an effortless travel experience.

Where to stay: with the friendliness of a hostel and the comforts of a hotel — including en-suite bathrooms and a decked swimming-pool — Circus Hostel is in the thick of Telmo barrio.

Meanwhile, located in Microcentro — the political and historic heart of Buenos Aires — NH Collection Buenos Aires Centro Histórico is hard to beat when it comes to bedding down in luxurious style.

Find more accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay in Buenos Aires.

11. Cusco, Peru

• Why visit: fiery festivals, and fewer crowds in the Sacred Valley
• Average temperature: 41°F to 68°F (5°C to 20°C)
• Average daily budget: $60-$100

Sitting in a shoulder season between Peru's May to September dry season and the region’s November-to-April wet season, October sees Cusco experience pleasantly mild, often-sunny weather, with smaller crowds descending on its top attractions. If you travel to Peru in October, you’ll find it’s an excellent time to enjoy Cusco without the peak-season rush.

All the better for trekking the Inca Trail and the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, and exploring the Sacred Valley – Cusco is the gateway to all these wonders of the world.

If that wasn’t enough, taking a vacation in Cusco in October also offers visitors the chance to experience notable cultural celebrations. Chief among them is the Señor de los Temblores ("Lord of the Earthquakes") festival on October 18. This vibrant event honors the city’s patron saint with processions, music, dancing, and fireworks.

Editor’s tip: Looking for inspiration? Check out our customizable Peru itineraries to make trip planning a breeze.

Where to stay: in a prime location in the center of Cusco, MOAF Cusco Boutique Hotel features 3-star accommodation close to Wanchaq Train station. The service is very friendly, and the breakfasts are pretty great, too.

Also centrally located (Wanchaq Train station is 1.4 km away), Hotel Paradis Suite Cusco offers concierge services, a restaurant and bar, and an indoor pool.

12. Havana, Cuba

• Why visit: warm weather and sizzling culture
• Average temperature: 73°F to 86°F (23°C to 30°C)
• Average daily budget: $60-$100

If you’re traveling from fast-cooling weather, October is a great month to head to Havana to feel the heat of the sun and heady cultural experiences.

Though October sits at the end of Cuba’s rainy season, it tends to experience less rainfall than the peak rainy months of May to September.

In general, the weather is warm and tropical, with occasional brief showers, and far fewer visitors than peak-season December. This makes exploring Havana’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Havana (Habana Vieja) — one of the best things to do in Cuba — much more pleasurable. 

In addition, October sees Havana brim with vibrant cultural events, including the Havana International Ballet Festival.

Lastly, while Havana itself doesn’t have beaches, it’s within reach of plenty of beaches. You could even consider taking a multi-destination vacation that covers the culture and beaches of Cuba, from Havana to Varadero.

Where to stay: the best places to stay in Havana (and Cuba more widely) aren't usually listed on the usual accommodation booking platforms, so get yourself The Rough Guide to Cuba for expert intel.

Already started planning your Cuban vacation? Discover the best ways to get there.

13. New York City, USA

• Why visit: Fall hues, street parades, film and food festivals
• Average temperature: 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C)
• Average daily budget: $200-$250

While there’s no bad time to visit the Big Apple, there are a few good reasons to consider vacationing here in October.

First up, this month sees New York City in peak fall foliage mode, which makes meandering the likes of Central Park, Prospect Park and the High Line all the more pleasant.

As for other special reasons to visit, the second Monday in October sees NYC host one of the largest Columbus Day parades in the world. Expect marching bands, floats, and cultural performances along Fifth Avenue. 

Or, if you visit at the end of the month, you’ll get to see NYC mark Halloween in extravagantly spooky style — from its Village Halloween Parade, to haunted house tours.

Film buffs and foodies should note that October sees the city host the New York Film Festival, and the New York City Wine and Food Festival.

Where to stay: for an iconic stay in Midtown Manhattan try The Algonquin, New York’s legendary literary hangout.

Or, for a chic stay in Williamsburg, check out The McCarren. Located just off the main Williamsburg strip, overlooking McCarren Park, it boasts a seasonal outdoor pool and has a rooftop lounge with Manhattan views.

You can also find more great accommodation options in our guide to the best places to stay in New York.

14. Dubai, UAE

• Why visit: perfect conditions for beach vacations mixed with exploration and golf
• Average temperature: 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C)
• Average daily budget: $200-$250

October is an excellent time to visit Dubai for several reasons. Firstly, the month sees the city shift from scorching summer heat to more moderate temperatures — all the better for spending longer on the beach, going golfing, or booking desert safaris and yacht cruises.

Such conditions are also better for strolling through traditional souks and visiting historic and cultural sites like Al Fahidi Fort and the Dubai Museum.

Of course, you can also shop ‘til you drop, and indulge in upscale experiences in October, too. Dubai isn’t short of award-winning fine dining restaurants, and upscale hotels offering. rejuvenating spa treatments.

It's also worth knowing that while Dubai is synonymous with grown-up luxury vacations, it shouldn't be overlooked as a family destination. Its water parks and theme parks (including Legoland) are surefire winners with kids of all ages. On that note, discover things every family must do in Dubai.

Where to stay: to keep things (relatively) cheap, try Rove Dubai Marina.

In the market for an all-out upscale experience? Look into staying in the 5-star Atlantis The Palm. Located on Jumeirah Island, it boasts a private sandy beach with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, plus an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium. 

15. Sydney, Australia

• Why visit: outdoor activities in spring climes
• Average temperature: 57°F to 72°F (14°C to 22°C)
• Average daily budget: $200-$250

October marks the beginning of spring in Sydney, which means mild temperatures, blooming flowers and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

On that subject, you could hike spectacular coastal trails, kayak Sydney Harbor, or go on bushwalk in the nearby Blue Mountains National Park for breath-taking views and encounters with native wildlife.

It’s also a top month for beach lovers to soak up sun and surf at Sydney's famous beaches. From iconic Bondi Beach and family-friendly Manly Beach, to picturesque Coogee Beach, there's a sandy stretch to suit every taste.

Where to stay: for five-star service in the Central Business District, take a look at InterContinental. This former Treasury building offers stunning views of the Botanic Gardens, Opera House and harbor.

Traveling on a budget? You could consider staying in BASE Backpackers. This huge, modern, 360-bed hostel offers well-furnished rooms and dorms.

For more accommodation options, see our guide to the best areas to stay in Sydney.

16. Reykjavik, Iceland

• Why visit: watch whales and the Northern Lights with fewer tourists
• Average temperature: 34°F to 45°F (1°C to 7°C)
• Average daily budget: $100-$200

October is when tailor-made Iceland trips really start to shine. Longer nights and clearer skies mean it's the beginning of Northern Lights season, one of the country’s biggest draws. Fewer crowds and crisp autumn air make it a great time to explore Iceland’s dramatic landscapes, with a good chance of spotting the aurora dance overhead.

Given that seeing the northern lights is one of the best things to do in Iceland — and a bucket list experience for many a traveler — it’s clear why Reykjavik is a wonderful place to head to for your October vacation

In addition, October falls between the peak summer tourist season and the winter holiday season, which means fewer crowds and a broader choice of more affordable accommodation.

Despite being on the cusp of winter, October in Reykjavik is pretty mild compared with the upcoming months — all the better for exploring the city on foot, visiting landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja Church and Harpa Concert Hall, and enjoying epic hikes and trips to geothermal hot springs.

Lastly, October is an excellent time for whale watching excursions from Reykjavik's Old Harbor. Expect to see humpback whales, minke whales and orcas as they migrate through Icelandic waters.

Editor’s tip: Looking for inspiration? Check out our customizable Iceland itineraries to make trip planning a breeze.

Where to stay: bright and well-located, Berjaya Reykjavik Marina Hotel has stylish rooms and a cinema, plus whale-watching tours are right on the doorstep.

We also recommend Hotel Ísland — it's cozy, with an excellent on-site spa and wellness services.

For more accommodation options, see our guide to the best places to stay in Reykjavik.

17. Florence, Italy

• Why visit: mild climes, fine wine and small crowds
• Average temperature: 52°F to 70°F (11°C to 21°C)
• Average daily budget: $130-$200

If you’re spending time elsewhere in Europe this Fall and are looking for a perfect weekend away, think about heading to Florence — a destination that was hailed one of the most beautiful cities in the world by Rough Guides’ readers. 

That said, this glorious destination is also well-suited to a longer October vacation that's loaded with culture and fine wine.

October brings mild temperatures to Florence, making it comfortable for exploring the city's historic streets as the city is suffused in warm Fall tones.

At the same time, October is far less crowded than it is through May-September, which makes visiting popular attractions and the best museums in Florence, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, all the better. 

Into fine wine and food? October is the peak of the wine harvest season in Tuscany, and Florence serves as an excellent base for exploring the region's renowned vineyards and wineries.

For more ideas, read our guide to unforgettable things to do Tuscany, and take inspiration from our customizable Italy itineraries.

Where to stay: to treat yourself to a centrally-located spot — and on-site spa treatments — stay in Corte dei Sogni Boutique Hotel & spa.

Located next to the Ponte Vecchio, Hotel Hermitage is another handsome offering. It offers panoramic views of Florence’s historic center from its rooftop terrace, and traditionally-styled rooms.

For more accommodation options, see our guide to the best places to stay in Florence.

18. Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

• Why visit: epic white-water rafting 
• Average temperature: 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C)
• Average daily budget: $60-$100

Nepal is one of the best places in the world to go white-water rafting, and the best season to do that is from mid-October to November. The same is true of kayaking.

At this time, the rapids are exciting, but more manageable than during the monsoon season.

Two highlights are the Bhote Koshi, the steepest and hardest of the country’s raftable rivers, and the Upper Kali Gandaki descent. The latter of which is a thrilling route that can easily be added to a trek in the Annapurna region.

Editor’s tip: Seeking ideas for your trip? Take the hassle out of planning with our Nepal itineraries, ready to customize.

Where to stay: for spectacular scenery, consider staying in Tashidelek Guest Lodge & House. Located in in Dhulikhel, with access to a garden, terrace, and tour desk, the mountain views are spectacular.

More romantic style, Boutique Heritage Home is an oasis of calm close to the Durbar Square temples.

19. Zanzibar, Tanzania

• Why visit: blissful beach vacations with moderate crowds
• Average temperature: 72°F to 86°F (22°C to 30°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$120

October is part of Zanzibar's dry season, which means warm-to-hot sunny weather, and minimal rainfall — ideal for enjoying a blissful vacation on truly beautiful beaches, with excellent conditions for snorkeling, diving, and swimming in clear turquoise waters.

October also falls between the peak tourist seasons of July to September, and December to February. As a result, you’ll get to enjoy said beaches and top historic attractions with fewer crowds hampering your style.

If you can drag yourself away from stretching out on the soft sand, don’t miss exploring Stone Town, Zanzibar's historic capital. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its fascinating architecture, such as the Sultan's Palace, the Old Fort, and the House of Wonders.

Where to stay: for a luxury stay with a private beach, try Sandies Baobab Beach Zanzibar.

To relax in style, Amaan Beach Bungalows has an on-site spa and wellness center.

20. Mexico City, Mexico

• Why visit: Day of the Dead and outdoor adventure
• Average temperature: 54°F to 72°F (12°C to 22°C)
• Average daily budget: $80-$120

October sees Mexico City build up to the country’s most iconic festivals — Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). While the main celebrations don’t happen until the end of the month and into early November, the preceding weeks see the city come alive with colorful decorations and parade preparation. This makes it a vibrant and unforgettable time for a Mexico trip.

At the same time, as October marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season, the weather here is generally mild and pleasant, with comfortable temperatures perfect for exploring iconic attractions. 

These include the Zócalo (main square), the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral, all while enjoying smaller crowds compared to peak tourist season.

October is also an excellent time to explore the surrounding areas of Mexico City on day trips. Visitors can visit the archaeological site of Teotihuacan to climb the Pyramid of the Sun, tour the colorful canals of Xochimilco on a trajinera (traditional boat), or hike the scenic landscapes of the Desierto de los Leones National Park.

Editor’s tip: Need some ideas? Browse our tailored Mexico itineraries and simplify your travel planning.

Where to stay: for a four-star experience in the historic center, head to Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico. This gorgeous hotel features historic architecture and two upscale authentic Mexican restaurants.

For a more modern stay in Colonia Juarez — something of a hipster heaven — try NH Collection Mexico Reforma.

Still undecided? Use our handy travel idea platform to kickstart curating your perfect October vacation.