October is honestly one of my favorite times to get away, and I’m not just saying that. The crowds are gone, the air feels crisp, and everything seems to slow down a bit. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, looking for peace and quiet, or just need a change of scenery, there’s something special about traveling this time of year. I pulled together a list of the best October holiday destinations to help you plan a trip you’ll actually remember. From cozy mountain towns to spots where you can still squeeze in some sun, here are ten places worth checking out this fall.
Key Takeaways
- October is a great month to travel because popular places are less crowded and the weather is usually comfortable.
- You can find a mix of fall colors, outdoor adventures, and even warm beach spots on this list of the best October holiday destinations.
- Planning a trip in October gives you a chance to see new places in a different light, whether you want relaxation or a bit of excitement.
1. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto in October is an incredible experience—it feels like stepping straight into a postcard. The whole city transforms into a wonderland of red and gold, with Japanese maples and ginkgo trees lighting up temples, gardens, and quiet side streets. The weather is just about perfect, not too hot or chilly, which makes it really easy to explore on foot or by bike.
If you’re wondering what to do in Kyoto while the leaves are in full display, here are some spots and tips that just can’t be missed:
- Stroll through Tofuku-ji: The Tsutenkyo Bridge is something else when the valley below turns crimson, and you’ll find yourself pausing every two minutes for another photo.
- Wander the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and nearby temples—places like Jojakko-ji become even more peaceful with a carpet of autumn leaves at your feet.
- Watch sunset from Kiyomizu-dera: The open balconies give you a panoramic sweep of maples and the city beyond. Honestly, it’s hard to beat.
- Check out a festival: Jidai Matsuri in late October is a huge parade with historical costumes and that special, festive buzz you only find in Japan.
Here’s what to expect weather-wise in Kyoto during October:
| Average High | Average Low | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|
| 70°F (21°C) | 52°F (11°C) | 8-9 |
Fall in Kyoto comes with a calm energy—temples are quieter, the air is crisp, and you get this feeling like the year is gently winding down. Stopping for a warm sweet potato snack while watching leaves float down a temple pond really stays with you.
Kyoto is busy in fall, so booking your lodgings early matters. Whether you pick a classic ryokan or a modern hotel, you’re waking up in one of the world’s most beautiful cities at its most magical time of year.
2. New England, USA
October in New England is unlike anywhere else. Every little town and winding back road feels like it’s trying to outdo the next with brilliant colors. The trees burst into those reds and oranges you see on postcards, and the air has this cool, crisp snap that’s perfect for wandering or just slowing down. The region covers states like Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, so you have plenty of places to explore.
If you love a road trip, the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is pretty much legendary for foliage, with plenty of pull-offs to gawk at the view. Or, head to a spot like Stowe, Vermont, for cider donuts and maybe a farm stand or two. Coastal places, like Kennebunkport in Maine, mix the ocean breeze with fall color—plus, it’s quieter in October, and you can find some surprisingly cheap stays if you look for affordable romantic getaways.
Here’s why New England in October is such an autumn dream:
- Festivals everywhere—pumpkin patches, apple picking, and small-town fairs pop up every weekend.
- Covered bridges and classic white church steeples give even more of that postcard look.
- Historic inns serve up warm breakfasts that just taste better after a chilly morning walk.
| Average Temperature (°F) | 45 | 55 | 60 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Range by State | ME | VT | MA |
One thing that stuck with me the last time I visited: even the smallest town diner feels like somewhere you’ll want to spend all morning, watching leaves fall and hearing locals talk about the harvest.
By the second week of October, most of the action has shifted outside—drives, hikes, and maybe a harvest festival if you time it right. New England’s got its own kind of magic this time of year, and when you’re there, you just feel it.
3. Iceland
Iceland in October is like stepping into a different world—just when you think the chill is creeping in, the countryside glows with color and you still get to see plenty of daylight. The real magic, though, is that it’s Northern Lights season without the bone-chilling cold or wild winter storms.
Here’s why October is such a sweet spot to visit Iceland:
- Expect fewer crowds since peak summer has passed, which means more quiet at popular spots like the Blue Lagoon or the Golden Circle.
- The temperatures hover around 32°F to 45°F, so it feels brisk but not miserable, especially with a good jacket.
- It’s prime time to catch the Northern Lights—clear nights and long evenings make for some of the best viewing without the hassle of harsh winter weather.
- Roads are mostly snow-free, which makes renting a car and road-tripping simple. No need to worry about being snowed in or battling icy highways.
Here’s a quick look at Iceland’s October weather stats:
| Average High | Average Low | Daylight Hours | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 45°F | 32°F | 8-11 hours | about 14 |
In October, you can hike glacier tongues without full winter gear, enjoy short tours that don’t last forever in the cold, and actually find a seat at some of Reykjavik’s best restaurants. I really like how laid-back the vibe feels—locals are starting to slow down, yet everything’s still open.
Autumn in Iceland is about cool, dramatic scenery and spontaneous adventures, not battling crowds or standing in endless lines. You’ll come home with stories that sound unreal, and probably a few tales of rain-soaked joy.
4. The Cotswolds, England
There’s something special about the Cotswolds when October rolls around. Stone cottages trimmed with climbing scarlet ivy show off against twisting lanes and fields full of sheep. Pubs begin to light their fires and you can smell woodsmoke in the air as you walk through villages like Bibury or Broadway. It’s like stepping straight into an autumn postcard, only real—plus, fewer crowds than summer, so you don’t have to dodge selfie sticks every few steps.
Here are my favorite autumn things to do in the Cotswolds:
- Stroll through Westonbirt Arboretum, which is packed with Japanese maples showing off every shade of red and gold.
- Hunt down the most beautiful ivy-clad houses in Lower Slaughter—my phone’s full of photos from just one wander here.
- Grab lunch in a local pub, cozy by the fire, with a classic Sunday roast or proper fish and chips.
- Trek up Broadway Tower for big country views that make you feel tiny—bring a windbreaker though, it gets breezy.
Where to stay? If you’re in the mood for a spurge, check out The Lygon Arms in Broadway—super historic and ‘country-chic’ (yep, it’s a thing). More budget-minded folks can find tons of B&Bs in towns like Cirencester; they’re usually family-run and feel a bit like staying with someone’s friendly (if slightly eccentric) grandma. For more autumn trip ideas beyond the countryside, UK holiday destinations for 2025 round up the best cities, coastlines, and culture spots too.
Even a quick weekend in the Cotswolds feels like a full reset—just walk, eat, settle by the fire, and let the rest take care of itself.
5. Tuscany, Italy
October in Tuscany is something special. You can feel the summer rush fade away and the hills take on soft, golden colors. It’s not just about pretty countryside (although it really is stunning)—there’s also a real sense of celebration everywhere you go. Fall means harvest season, so the air smells like ripe grapes, earth, and woodsmoke. It’s the ideal time for anyone who likes slow days, good food, and local experiences.
If you’re hunting for a place that mixes food, wine, and scenery in the fall, Tuscany is tough to beat.
Here’s what you really don’t want to miss in October:
- Join a truffle hunt outside Florence or Siena—local guides will teach you the tricks (with a dog, of course), and most tours end with a rustic truffle lunch.
- Visit the villages of Chianti or Montalcino for wine tastings, where you’ll spot grapevines turning gold and ruby before the olive harvest gets going.
- Head to Val d’Orcia: drive the winding roads lined with cypress trees and stop in towns like Montepulciano and Pienza for creamy cheese, hearty stews, and a slower pace.
- Check out a sagra (that’s a town festival) dedicated to seasonal foods like chestnuts or new wine—they’re casual and lively, with homemade food and plenty of locals.
Want a quick look at what to expect? Here’s a snapshot:
| Average October Temperature | Daytime (°F) | Nighttime (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Florence | 67 | 51 |
| Siena | 66 | 48 |
| Montalcino | 65 | 46 |
October is when Tuscany really feels honest—less crowded, packed with flavor, and every hilltop town drowsy in the bright autumn sun. Bring a sweater and a big appetite. You’ll need both.
6. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is one of those places that just gets under your skin in autumn, in the best way. The crisp weather is a real treat if you’re coming from somewhere muggy, and the mountain air just hits different. October is peak time for the Blue Ridge Mountains—on some days, it looks like the entire world is on fire with color. Hiking here means blazing red trees, giant gold leaves underfoot, and plenty of spots for leaf-peeping.
Some people visit for the scenery alone, but honestly, Asheville is also just a cool, relaxed town. You’ll find:
- Microbreweries everywhere (it’s practically a pastime to hop between them)
- Coffee shops bursting with pumpkin lattes and apple pastries
- Tons of dog-friendly patios, so yes, you can bring your pup along
- Art galleries, street murals, and random pop-up markets
Here’s a quick look at what to expect in October:
| Avg. High Temp | Avg. Low Temp | Main Event |
|---|---|---|
| 68°F (20°C) | 47°F (8°C) | Asheville Oktoberfest |
There’s this feeling in Asheville in October—like the mountains are buzzing and the whole city wants you to slow down and really soak it in. No need to rush. The best memories usually happen when you least expect them, maybe over a slice of apple pie at a backroad diner, or on a foggy morning hike when it feels like the world is yours alone.
Whether you’re hiking along Pisgah National Forest’s trails, admiring the grand Biltmore Estate’s pumpkins and chrysanthemums, or just strolling downtown with a warm drink, Asheville in October might just ruin all other fall trips for you.
7. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Tucked where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet, Harpers Ferry transforms into something truly special in October. The trees around town light up in deep reds and golds, and there’s this unmistakable crispness in the air that makes even a short walk along its old cobblestone streets feel like a journey back in time. This little town is all about historic charm mixed with amazing autumn views. If you’ve never been, October is absolutely when it shines the most.
Here’s what you’ll find if you visit in fall:
- Hiking trails for all levels, including a leg of the Appalachian Trail and the switchback-packed Maryland Heights Trail with killer river views.
- Leaf-peeping like you wouldn’t believe—standing on Jefferson Rock above town feels like you’re sitting on a throne made of color.
- Spooky legends and local ghost tours that add a sense of fun (and maybe a little shiver) once the sun sets.
- Festivals pop up, and don’t be surprised to stumble on people in full Highland Games regalia or seeing Main Street decorated for Halloween.
Temperature-wise, October days are usually pretty comfortable, often between 50°F and 65°F (10°C–18°C), though it gets chilly fast once the sun dips. Here’s a quick reference:
| Feature | Typical October Details |
|---|---|
| Weather | 50°F – 65°F (10°C–18°C) |
| Key Sights | Appalachian Trail, Jefferson Rock |
| Vibe | Historic, colorful, peaceful |
Sitting on a porch with a mug of local cider, you get why people fall for this town every fall. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back every year, just to see those trees turn again.
If you’re planning a fall getaway, Harpers Ferry doesn’t try too hard, which is exactly why it’s worth the trip.
8. Door County, Wisconsin
Door County might sound off the beaten path, but heading there in October is honestly something special. The whole peninsula turns into a patchwork of red, orange, and gold leaves, and the crisp air just feels different here. You never really understand fall foliage until you drive along Highway 42 or stop at one of the cozy harbor towns and watch the maples and oaks flare up around peaceful lakeshores.
What makes Door County stand out isn’t just the beautiful colors, but how the whole community really gets into the season. Glad I brought an appetite—you’d be surprised how much apple cider and cherry pie you can put away in a long weekend. There’s a parade of autumn festivals, each one with local bands, crafts, and more home-baked goods than I could ever eat. A few standouts:
- Sister Bay Fall Festival: live music, quirky competitions, a big arts and crafts market, and local treats
- Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival: creative pumpkin displays, hayrides, and family-friendly activities
- Fish Creek’s Jack O’Lantern Days: costumed kids, ghost stories, and a little bit of small-town magic
Here’s a quick look at what you might expect in October:
| Average High | Average Low | Key Seasonal Events |
|---|---|---|
| 58°F (14°C) | 39°F (4°C) | Fall festivals, orchard visits |
There’s something a little slower and calmer about Door County in October. Locals are friendlier, lines are shorter, and you get this sense that you’re soaking up the best of the season before winter sets in. No need to rush—just let yourself enjoy it.
For me, wandering Peninsula State Park, watching waves crash at Cave Point, and poking through shops in Egg Harbor felt like the heart of autumn. If you need a classic fall escape (somewhere perfect for photos and pie), Door County is it.
9. Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite in October is a different scene from the packed summer months. The crowds are cut almost in half, and you get that peaceful feeling walking along the winding trails or taking in the famous Tunnel View. Mid-October is a sweet spot for catching autumn color, with the maples and dogwoods in the valley putting on a quiet but stunning show.
But here’s the thing—waterfalls won’t be at their wildest, since Yosemite is known for dry summers, but you can still see some flow at Bridalveil Fall or Vernal Fall if there’s been recent rain. The easy valley loop is a winner during this season, but don’t skip out on the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, which feels completely peaceful thanks to the thinner crowds.
Want to hike? The Mist Trail’s popular, and the air is crisp—bring layers because mornings start chilly but warm up fast. Accommodation options go from simple lodge rooms to the iconic Ahwanee Hotel, though you’ll want to book early since October is popular among folks catching the last of the perfect weather.
Here’s a quick look at what stands out in Yosemite in October:
- Fewer tourists make the park feel open and serene
- Ideal temperatures for hiking by day, cool evenings for stargazing
- Autumn colors peak in Yosemite Valley, especially mid-month
If you’re looking for a National Park that’s both awe-inspiring and less crowded in October, Yosemite truly comes alive with its subtle fall beauty and legendary granite cliffs.
Plus, if you’re planning a budget getaway, October’s often kinder on your wallet—there are lower prices on flights and accommodations around this time, compared to summer.
10. Maui, Hawaii
If you’ve ever dreamed of having a tropical getaway without the crowds and summer humidity, October in Maui feels almost too good to be true. The summer tourists are gone, but the weather still sits comfortably between 75–85°F (24–29°C), which is just the way I like it. It’s quieter, the prices at hotels often dip, and that easygoing Hawaiian pace feels, somehow, even more laid back.
Here’s what stood out the most for me in Maui during fall:
- Warm ocean, calm enough for long swims and lazy snorkeling in places like Napili Bay
- The Maui County Fair—think rides, food stalls, and local crafts, with fewer lines than summer
- Scenic drives, especially the Road to Hana, with waterfalls and black sand beaches that are way less crowded in October
- Wandering the Kula Country Farms Pumpkin Patch (it turns out, pumpkin patches plus a view of the Pacific is a pretty unbeatable combo)
- Fresh food everywhere—from poke to tropical fruit, and the Maui Food and Wine Festival with creative bites and friendly locals
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect weather-wise:
| Month | High Temp (°F) | Low Temp (°F) | Rainfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| October | 85 | 75 | 2.3 |
Fall on Maui isn’t about chasing foliage—it’s about calm mornings for snorkeling, sunset views from volcano parks, and maybe, a homemade Mai Tai on your hotel balcony after a long day outside. This is when the island lets out a big exhale, and you get to breathe it all in.
Final Thoughts
So, that’s my list of the top October holiday spots. Honestly, fall is a great time to get out and see somewhere new. The crowds are smaller, the air feels fresh, and you get to see places in a totally different light. Whether you want to wander through colorful forests, check out a new city, or just relax somewhere quiet, there’s something for everyone this time of year. Planning a trip can be half the fun, too. Even if you just take a short break, it can really shake up your routine and give you something to look forward to. Wherever you end up going, I hope you have a great trip and make some good memories. If you’ve got a favorite fall destination, let me know—I’m always looking for new ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is October a good month for a holiday?
October is a great time to travel because the weather is usually mild, there are fewer tourists, and prices for hotels and flights can be lower than in the summer. Plus, you get to see beautiful fall colors in many places around the world.
Are these destinations good for families with kids?
Yes! Most of the places on this list, like New England, Asheville, and Maui, have lots of activities for families. You can enjoy nature, festivals, and local food together. Just check the weather and plan activities that everyone will like.
How do I choose the best destination for my fall trip?
Think about what you want from your trip. Do you want to see fall leaves, relax on a beach, or explore a new culture? Also, consider your budget, how far you want to travel, and how much time you have. All these things can help you pick the perfect spot for your October getaway.
