20 Best Places to Visit in Europe in October in 2025

October is a great time to visit Europe. The summer heat is cooling down, but some places are still warm and pleasant outside. You will find fewer crowds, making it easier to explore the best places. Autumn colors cover the cities and countryside, showing off vibrant fall foliage.

From the vineyards of the Douro Valley to the historic streets of Prague, Europe is full of picturesque destinations. You can enjoy outdoor activities, delicious food, and cultural events like Oktoberfest.

Whether you want to hike in the Alps, walk along Charles Bridge, or bask in the sun in the Canary Islands, October offers something for everyone. In this guide, I will suggest the 20 best places to visit in Europe in October, from picturesque towns to vineyard-covered landscapes. Get ready for a trip to Europe in autumn.

Key Takeaways

• October is a great time to explore Europe. You can enjoy the best places without the summer crowds.
• You can find warm places like Portugal, Spain, Greece, and the Canary Islands. You can enjoy the beach and sunshine.
• Autumn colors make cities beautiful. Prague, Bavaria, Transylvania, and Amsterdam have beautiful fall foliage and cozy vibes.
• October is harvest season, so you can enjoy picturesque scenery and delicious food.
• Traveling in October is easier. Everything is cheaper compared to the summer months.

Why visit Europe in October?

October is a great time to travel in Europe. The weather is nice, not too hot or too cold. There are fewer tourists, so you don’t have to wait in long lines at famous places. The trees turn beautiful colors, which make cities and parks beautiful.

If you love food and festivals, October has grape harvests, Oktoberfest, and truffle season. Plus, flights and hotels are cheaper than in summer. It is the perfect time to explore and have fun.

Here is a table with the average October temperatures for each destination:

Want to explore Europe without overspending? Read How to Travel Europe on a Budget: A Comprehensive Guide.

20 Best Places to Visit in Europe in October

Europe in October offers fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and beautiful autumn colors. It has Something for every traveler. Here are 20 of the best places to travel in Europe in October.

1. Prague, Czech Republic: Fairytale Autumn Colors

Prague looks like a magic storybook in October. The trees turn gold and red, and the air feels cool and fresh. The city has old castles, big bridges, and yummy food. Undoubtedly, Prague is one of the best destinations to visit in October.

Things to Do in Prague in October

• Visit famous attractions like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle.
• Try hot chocolate in a cute café.
• Discover the charming city and beautiful Gothic towers.
• Go on a boat ride and see the city from the water.

Where to Stay in Prague, Czech Republic?

• Budget: The RoadHouse Prague
• Midrange: Hotel Golden Star
• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Prague

What to Eat in Prague, Czech Republic?

• Trdelník (Sweet pastry with sugar)
• Goulash (Meat stew with sauce)
• Svíčková (Meat with creamy sauce)

Top Attractions to Visit  in Prague

• Old Town Hall & Astronomical Clock tickets
• Prague Castle tickets
• Vltava River Cruise Tickets
• Prague Astronomical Clock tickets

Looking for budget-friendly October getaways? Discover the Best Places to Travel in October on a Budget: Top Picks.

2. Lisbon, Portugal: Warm & Less Crowded

Lisbon is one of the warmest cities with beautiful streets and big hills. In October, you’ll find warm and low crowds. You can see old trams, blue ocean views, and yummy food. The city is also called a budget-friendly place to visit in October in Europe.

Things to Do in Lisbon in October

• See the Belém Tower near the water.
• Ride Tram 28 through the old streets.
• Eat a Pastel de Nata (sweet egg tart).
• Visit São Jorge Castle for a great city view.

Where to Stay in Lisbon, Portugal?

• Budget: Yes! Lisbon Hostel
• Midrange: Hotel da Baixa
• Luxury: Bairro Alto Hotel

What to Eat in Lisbon, Portugal?

• Pastel de Nata (Sweet custard tart)
• Bacalhau à Brás (Fish with eggs and potatoes)
• Piri Piri Chicken (Spicy grilled chicken)

Tickets for Portugal Visit

If you are visiting Portugal, you may explore Lisbon. Confirm your tickets for major attractions before visiting.

Read More on  Best Places to Visit in April 2025: Top Destinations for Your Spring Getaway

3. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Stunning Coastal Beauty

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city by the sea. The city has an old-town vibe with orange rooftops. The water is blue and clear. It feels like you are in a fairy tale when you visit. Dubrovnik is one of the best places to go in October month.

Things to Do in Dubrovnik in October

• Walk on the city walls and see the amazing view.
• Visit the Old Town and learn rich history.
• Take a boat ride to nearby islands.
• Relax by the beach and enjoy the sunshine.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia?

• Budget: Hostel EuroAdria
• Midrange: Hotel Lero
• Luxury: Hotel Excelsior

What to Eat in Dubrovnik, Croatia?

• Pasticada (Beef stew)
• Grilled Fish (Fresh seafood)
• Rozata (Custard dessert)

Where to find major attractions tickets?

• Emanuel Vidović Gallery entry ticket
• Game of Thrones Guided Tour

Travel Tips: Book tickets in advance From Tours Travel Finder to skip the lines.

4. Rhodes, Greece: A Warm October Getaway

Rhodes is a sunny island in Greece with old castles and beaches. October is a great time to visit because of the pleasant weather and fewer crowds. With delicious food, a rich history, Rhodes is a warm and welcoming October getaway.

Things to Do in Rhodes in October

• Explore the old town and medieval castle.
• Relax on the beach or swim in the blue sea.
• Visit the Ancient Kamiros ruins.
• Eat a Greek salad with fresh veggies and feta cheese.

Where to Stay in Rhodes, Greece?

• Budget: Hostel Karteros
• Midrange: Hotel Mediterranean
• Luxury: Lindos Blu

What to Eat in Rhodes, Greece?

• Moussaka (Eggplant and meat casserole)
• Souvlaki (Grilled meat skewers)
• Greek Salad (Tomato, cucumber, and feta)

Greece Top Tours Tickets

• Day Tour of Hidden Caves and Meteora Monasteries
• Acropolis Museum, Acropolis & Parthenon Guided Tour
• Acropolis Entrance with Optional Audio Tour & Sites

Looking for affordable January destinations? Check out 10 Best Places to Travel in January on a Budget in 2025.

5. Canary Islands, Spain: Sun-Soaked Paradise

The Canary Islands are like a heavenly destination for beach lovers. It is warm and sunny all year round. In October, the weather makes it a beautiful destination for a beach vacation. There are volcanoes, beaches, and fun places to visit.

Things to Do in the Canary Islands in October

• Relax on the beach and swim in the clear water.
• Hike up a volcano and enjoy the view.
• Visit the Jardín Botánico (Botanical garden) in Tenerife.
• Explore the Loro Parque (Animal park) with cute animals.

Where to Stay in the Canary Islands, Spain?

• Budget: Hostel La Casa Blanca
• Midrange: Hotel Rural El Mondalón
• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama

What to Eat in the Canary Islands, Spain?

• Papas Arrugadas (Wrinkled potatoes with sauce)
• Gofio (Roasted grain dish)
• Sancocho (Fish stew)

Tickets for the Canary Islands

6. Slovenia: Underrated Autumn Gem

Slovenia is a beautiful country with mountains, lakes, and forests. The country becomes more beautiful in autumn. It is a great place for hiking, exploring castles, and enjoying the fresh air.

Things to Do in Slovenia in October

• Visit Lake Bled and see the small island in the middle.
• Hike in Triglav National Park and see the mountains.
• Explore Predjama Castle, a castle built into a cave.
• Walk through the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where to Stay in Slovenia?

• Budget: Hostel Celica
• Midrange: Hotel Park
• Luxury: Kempinski Palace Portorož

What to Eat in Slovenia?

• Idrija žlikrofi (Dumplings)
• Jota (Hearty bean soup)
• Potica (Nut roll dessert)

Looking for the best September destinations? Discover them in Top 15 Best Places to Travel to in September.

7. Bavaria, Germany: A Fairytale in Autumn

If you want to visit a magical place. It is full of old castles, mountains, and beautiful forests. In October, the trees turn red and gold, making it look like a fairy tale. Try to visit in early October for the best crowdless experience.

Things to Do in Bavaria in October

• Visit Neuschwanstein Castle and feel like a princess.
• Go hiking in the Alps and enjoy the views.
• Visit the Oktoberfest.
• Explore Munich’s old town and see the beautiful buildings.

Where to Stay in Bavaria, Germany?

• Budget: Euro Youth Hostel
• Midrange: Hotel Torbräu
• Luxury: Bayerischer Hof

What to Eat in Bavaria, Germany?

• Pretzel (Baked bread)
• Wiener Schnitzel (Breaded meat)
• Apfelstrudel (Apple dessert)

Where to find Germany’s major attractions tickets?

8. Budapest, Hungary: Thermal Baths & Fall Colors

Budapest is known for its hot springs and beautiful fall colors. October is a good month to visit. It has cool weather and crisp air. You can relax in thermal baths and enjoy exploring the city. The city is one of the best European destinations to visit.

Things to Do in Budapest in October

• Relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
• Walk across the Chain Bridge and enjoy the river views.
• Visit Buda Castle and look over the city.
• Try a traditional Hungarian goulash soup.

Where to Stay in Budapest, Hungary?

• Budget: Maverick City Lodge
• Midrange: Hotel Parlament
• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace

What to Eat in Budapest, Hungary?

• Goulash (Meat and vegetable soup)
• Langos (Fried dough with toppings)
• Dobos Torte (Chocolate cake)

Where to find major attractions tickets?

• Budapest City Visit with Highlights Cruise
• Budapest: The Great Synagogue Skip-the-Line Ticket

Looking for sunny escapes in November? Check out Best Warm Places to Visit in November 2025.

9. Edinburgh, Scotland: Gothic Charm in Autumn

Edinburgh is a beautiful city with old castles and gothic buildings. In October, the weather is cool and the fall colors make the city look beautiful. The city is one of the best places in Europe.

Things to Do in Edinburgh in October

• Visit Edinburgh Castle and see the cannon.
• Explore the Royal Mile and enjoy the old shops.
• Hike up Arthur’s Seat for a great city view.
• Try a traditional Scottish dish, like Haggis.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh, Scotland?

• Budget: Castle Rock Hostel
• Midrange: Radisson Blu Hotel
• Luxury: The Balmoral Hotel

What to Eat in Edinburgh, Scotland?

• Haggis (Meat, oatmeal, and spices)
• Shortbread (Sweet biscuit)
• Scotch Pie (Meat pie)

Where to buy major attractions tickets?

Want to explore Scotland without overspending? Check out Travel Scotland on a Budget: 15 Tips for Budget Adventures.

10. Tuscany, Italy: Rolling Hills & Vineyards

Tuscany is a beautiful place in Italy. It is full of green hills, farms, and small villages. It also has old stone houses and vineyards. In October, the weather is cool and nice. The fall colors make it very nice in October. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in October.

Things to Do in Tuscany in October

• Walk around Florence and see the old buildings.
• Visit Pisa and take a picture with the Leaning Tower.
• Try fresh pasta and cheese at a farm.
• Drive through Val d’Orcia, a place with amazing views.

Where to Stay in Tuscany, Italy?

• Budget: Hotel Nizza, Florence
• Midrange: Hotel Brunelleschi, Florence
• Luxury: Belmond Castello di Casole

What to Eat in Tuscany, Italy?

• Pappardelle al Cinghiale (Pasta with wild boar sauce)
• Pecorino Cheese (Sheep’s milk cheese)
• Ribollita (Vegetable soup with bread)

Italy’s Famous Attractions Tickets

11. Barcelona, Spain: Warm Weather & Fewer People

Barcelona is a bright and happy city by the sea. It has big buildings, beaches, and tasty local food. In October, it is one of the best places to visit. The weather is warm, not too hot, and there are fewer people. You can enjoy various festivals and events. Make a great plan to sightsee around Barcelona.

Things to Do in Barcelona in October

• See La Sagrada Familia, a big, beautiful church.
• Walk on La Rambla and watch fun street shows.
• Play at Barceloneta Beach and feel the soft sand.
• Visit Park Güell, a park with colorful buildings.

Where to Stay in Barcelona, Spain?

• Cheap: Kabul Party Hostel
• Nice: Hotel Jazz
• Fancy: W Barcelona

What to Eat in Barcelona, Spain?

• Paella (Rice with seafood or chicken)
• Pan con Tomate (Bread with tomato)
• Patatas Bravas (Crispy potatoes with yummy sauce)

Major attractions’ tickets

12. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Boats & Fall Leaves

Amsterdam is a city with water everywhere. It has boats, bridges, and bikes. In October, the trees turn yellow and orange, and the city looks so beautiful. The air is cool and fresh. You can enjoy autumn festivals during your visit.

Things to Do in Amsterdam in October

• Ride a boat on the canals and see the city.
• Visit the Van Gogh Museum to see colorful paintings.
• Walk in Vondelpark and watch the leaves fall.
• Go to the Anne Frank House and learn history.
• Eat a stroopwafel, a sweet cookie with caramel.

Where to Stay in Amsterdam, Netherlands?

• Cheap: ClinkNOORD Hostel
• Nice: Motel One Amsterdam
• Fancy: Hotel Pulitzer

What to Eat in Amsterdam, Netherlands?

• Stroopwafel (Thin cookie with caramel inside)
• Herring (Soft fish snack)
• Patat (Big French fries with yummy sauce)

Where to find major attractions tickets?

• Anne Frank House – Book Tickets
• Van Gogh Museum – Book Tickets
• Rijksmuseum – Book Tickets
• Stedelijk Museum – Book Tickets
• H’ART Museum (Hermitage Amsterdam) – Book Tickets
• Moco Museum (Banksy & More) – Book Tickets
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise – Book Tickets

Looking for romantic things to do in Amsterdam? Check out the Top Romantic Things to Do in Amsterdam.

13. Vienna, Austria: Music & Cozy Cafés

Vienna is a city full of music and big palaces. The city is considered one of the warmest places in Europe. In October, the weather is cool and nice, and there are fewer people. You can listen to music, drink hot chocolate, and see historic sites.

Things to Do in Vienna in October

• See Schönbrunn Palace, a large golden palace.
• Listen to classical music at a concert.
• Visit a café and drink hot chocolate.
• Walk around St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• Eat a Sacher Torte, a yummy chocolate cake.

Where to Stay in Vienna, Austria?

• Cheap: Wombat’s City Hostel
• Nice: Motel One Vienna
• Fancy: Hotel Sacher

What to Eat in Vienna, Austria?

• Sacher Torte (Chocolate cake with jam)
• Wiener Schnitzel (Crispy fried meat)
• Goulash (Warm meat soup)

Where to find Vienna’s major attractions tickets?

• Mythos Mozart Tour Ticket
• Classical Concert at Mozarthaus Tickets
• Entrance of Upper Belvedere & Permanent Collection
• Schönbrunn Palace entrance ticket
• Performance of the Lipizzans

14. Bruges, Belgium: Old Streets & Chocolate

Bruges is a small town in Belgium. It looks like a fairy-tale town with old buildings and canals. In October, the weather is generally cool and fresh. You can walk around and eat yummy chocolate.

Things to Do in Bruges in October

• Walk into the old town and see the pretty buildings.
• Ride a boat on the canals.
• Visit a chocolate shop and eat sweet treats.
• Climb Belfry Tower and see the whole town.
• Try Belgian waffles, soft and sweet.

Where to Stay in Bruges, Belgium?

• Cheap: St. Christopher’s Inn
• Nice: Hotel Aragon
• Fancy: Hotel Dukes’ Palace

What to Eat in Bruges, Belgium?

• Belgian Chocolate (Sweet and creamy)
• Belgian Waffles (Soft, warm, and sweet)
• Frites (Crispy French fries with sauce)

Belgium’s major attractions tickets

15. Transylvania, Romania: Castles & Fall Colors

Transylvania is a place with big mountains and old castles. People say Dracula lived here! In October, the trees turn orange, and it looks like a fairy tale. You can enjoy vibrant autumn in the month.

Things to Do in Transylvania in October

• Visit Bran Castle, also called Dracula’s Castle.
• Walk in old villages and see stone houses.
• Hike in the Carpathian Mountains and enjoy the fall colors.
• Try a warm Romanian soup.
• Go on a spooky Halloween tour.

Where to Stay in Transylvania, Romania?

• Cheap: JugendStube Hostel
• Nice: Hotel Transylvania
• Fancy: Teleferic Grand Hotel

What to Eat in Transylvania, Romania?

• Ciorbă de Burtă (Warm soup with meat)
• Sarmale (Cabbage rolls with meat and rice)
• Papanasi (Sweet doughnuts with jam)

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16. Seville, Spain: Flamenco & Orange Trees

Seville is a warm and sunny city in Spain. It has old palaces, nice streets, and orange trees. In October, the weather is still warm enough to walk outside and enjoy the city. It is still a great time to visit before winter.

Things to Do in Seville in October

• See Alcázar of Seville.
• Walk in Plaza de España, a big, colorful square.
• Watch a Flamenco dance show.
• Visit the Seville Cathedral and climb the Giralda tower.

Where to Stay in Seville, Spain?

• Cheap: Black Swan Hostel
• Nice: Petit Palace Santa Cruz
• Fancy: Hotel Alfonso XIII

What to Eat in Seville, Spain?

• Gazpacho (Cold tomato soup)
• Tapas (Small, tasty dishes)
• Churros con Chocolate (Sweet dough with hot chocolate)

Where to buy major attractions tickets?

17. Krakow, Poland: Rich History & Fewer Tourists

Krakow is a city full of history, castles, and large squares. In October, the tourist season is ending, so there are fewer people. The cooler weather makes it nice to walk around and explore.

Things to Do in Krakow in October

• Visit Wawel Castle, a castle with a dragon legend.
• Walk in Rynek Główny.
• Explore Kazimierz, the old Jewish quarter.
• Take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Where to Stay in Krakow, Poland?

• Cheap: Greg & Tom Hostel
• Nice: Hotel Polski
• Fancy: Hotel Stary

What to Eat in Krakow, Poland?

• Pierogi (Dumplings with cheese, meat, or fruit)
• Zapiekanka (Bread with cheese and mushrooms)
• Barszcz (Beetroot soup)

Krakow Major Attractions Tickets

• Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour
• Visit Oskar Schindler’s Factory
• Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour

Planning a trip in February? Check out the Top 15 Best Countries to Visit in February

18. Copenhagen, Denmark: Cozy Hygge & Autumn Scenery

Copenhagen is a city of colorful houses, boats, and bicycles. In October, the weather is still cool. People can enjoy hygge, which means feeling cozy and happy. The city offers a plethora of fun places to visit.

Things to Do in Copenhagen in October

• Walk in Nyhavn, a street with colorful houses and boats.
• Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest theme parks.
• See the Little Mermaid Statue.
• Ride a bike like the locals.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen, Denmark?

• Budget: Urban House Copenhagen
• Midrange: Hotel Alexandra
• Luxury: Hotel D’Angleterre

What to Eat in Copenhagen, Denmark?

• Danish Pastry (Sweet, flaky bread)
• Smørrebrød (Open-faced sandwich)
• Frikadeller (Danish meatballs)

Denmark’s Top Attractions Tickets

• CopenHill Tickets
• Copenhagen Canal Cruise Tickets
• National Museum of Denmark Tickets
• Copenhagen Tivoli Gardens Tickets

19. Paris, France: Romance & Fall Colors

Paris is one of the best places to visit in Europe in the fall. The city looks even more beautiful in autumn. In October, the weather is still nice, and there are fewer crowds than summer. You can explore top museums like the Louvre and enjoy the charm of autumn.

Things to Do in Paris in October

• See the Eiffel Tower and watch the lights at night.
• Walk in Jardin des Tuileries and see the autumn scenery.
• Visit Louvre Museum and see famous paintings.
• Take a boat ride on the Seine River.
• Try a warm croissant at a café.

Where to Stay in Paris, France?

• Cheap: Le Regent Montmartre
• Nice: Hotel Le Trente
• Fancy: Ritz Paris

What to Eat in Paris, France?

• Croissant (Flaky, buttery bread)
• Baguette (Long, crispy bread)
• Crêpes (Thin pancakes with chocolate or fruit)

Where to find major attractions tickets?

Here is a table of major attractions in Paris with ticket booking links:

Visiting Paris? Discover top experiences in The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Paris in 2025.

20. Reykjavik, Iceland: Northern Lights & Hot Springs

Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland. It has beautiful nature, volcanoes, and hot springs. In October, the weather is good and it is still a great time to see the Northern Lights.

Things to Do in Reykjavik in October

• See the Northern Lights at night.
• Relax in the Blue Lagoon.
• Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church, the tallest building in the city.
• Walk by the Harpa Concert Hall.
• Try Icelandic lamb soup to stay warm.

Where to Stay in Reykjavik, Iceland?

• Cheap: KEX Hostel
• Nice: Reykjavik Lights Hotel
• Fancy: The Reykjavik EDITION

What to Eat in Reykjavik, Iceland?

• Lamb Soup (Warm soup with meat and vegetables)
• Plokkfiskur (Mashed fish with potatoes)
• Rúgbrauð (Sweet, dark bread)

Where to find major attractions tickets?

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Festivals & Events in Europe in October

1. Truffle Festivals (Alba, Italy & Istria, Croatia)
2. Grape Harvest Festivals (Douro Valley, Portugal & Tuscany, Italy)
3. Halloween Celebrations (Edinburgh, Scotland & Transylvania, Romania)
4. Chestnut Festivals (Tuscany, Italy & Corsica, France)
5. Frankfurt Book Fair (Frankfurt, Germany)

Weather & Travel Tips for Europe in October

• Most of Europe is enjoying pleasant temperatures between 10-20°C.
• The Canary Islands, Greece, and Portugal still offer some warm days.
• Don’t forget to pack some layers for cooler weather or a few rain showers.
• Remember to pack gloves and a hat for cool places like Iceland or the Alps.
• Even with fewer tourists, popular spots like Prague, Lisbon, and Barcelona can be crowded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is October a good month to visit Europe?

Yes, there are fewer crowds, nice weather, and beautiful fall leaves. It’s a great time to visit.

What are the warmest places to visit in October in Europe?

The Canary Islands, Rhodes, Lisbon, and southern Spain are still warm.

Which European cities are best for autumn colors?

Prague, Salzburg, Slovenia, Bavaria, and Transylvania offer vibrant autumn scenery.

Where to go in Europe for a beach vacation in October?

Rhodes, Canary Islands, Dubrovnik, and Southern Portugal are warm enough.

Conclusion

October is a fantastic time to visit Europe. You can enjoy comfortable weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful autumn colors. Whether you love historic cities, warm beaches, or food festivals, there is something waiting for you. So, pack your bags and get ready for an amazing October adventure in Europe.