The 5 Best Places to Visit in October

Kick off fall travel at these top destinations

When the calendar turns to autumn, it can feel like the year’s almost over. Suddenly, it’s time to savor/hate on PSLs, dig out the Halloween decorations, and start pre-worrying about Thanksgiving plans. But wait! Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean travel has to be.

With some of the world’s top destinations just entering shoulder season and others still a couple months away from peak peak season, October is a travel sweet spot with plenty of locations that are more enjoyable and affordable than ever. So whether you’re looking for sun & relaxation or an epic outdoor adventure, here are the 5 best places to go to in October for your post-summer getaway.

1. Egypt

Has Egypt been pinned to your Pinterest board for quite some time? October might just be the best time for you to make it happen. Tourist season is just getting started here, so expect cooler temps plus locals who aren’t yet worn out by thousands of visitors.

With options like visiting the Sphinx, riding camels among the Pyramids of Giza, cruising down the Nile, and more, a trip to Egypt will rewrite your bucket list. Find Egypt trips or check out our Egypt Trip Prep page!

2. Greece

Love ancient wonders but not feeling the desert? Then shift your focus to the birthplace of democracy with its iconic sites and the pristine coastlines of the Mediterranean and Aegean. Look, we could try and keyword-stuff this article with the names of a bunch of famous attractions but you already know them all. Instead, we’ll just say that there’s a reason Greece is one of the best places to visit in October. There’s still plenty of sunshine, and the waters are warm enough for swimming in the low-mid 70°s. Looking to immerse yourself in culture? We suggest learning how to make local dishes like spanakopita in a cooking class or heading out to the island of Santorini for wine tasting, where its volcanic soil has produced some of the world’s best wine since ancient times.

Find Greece trips or check out our Greece Trip Prep page!

3. Bali

If you don’t mind a little rain, Bali is a go-to destination in October. It’s wide open, literally. At the mere mention of “rainy season,” Bali clears out tourists and leaves one of the world’s most popular destinations free to explore. With temperatures still reaching the low 80s, beach time—in one of the most epic surf spots—should definitely be part of your itinerary. There’s also plenty to do inland, like walking through the Sacred Monkey Forest, where over 700 gray long-tailed macaques frolic among the trees and ancient temple ruins. And after exploring bustling local markets and hiking to hidden waterfalls, you can relax with a famous Balinese massage. Or maybe just get one every day of the trip.

Find Bali trips or check out our Bali Trip Prep page!

4. Patagonia

Autumn north of the equator means spring in the southern hemisphere. That can make for conditions that are a little cooler and wetter, but if you’re interested in Patagonia, you’re probably not the type to be bothered by the weather. With summer still a couple months off, you’ll be able to enjoy all the natural beauty that this region has to offer in relative peace. That alone makes Patagonia a great place to visit in October. The opportunities for outdoor adventure cover the spectrum, from trekking across glaciers to watching the sun set over mountain lagoons. And don’t worry, it’s not all rugged all the time. In cities like El Chaltén, there’s plenty of opportunity to slow things down with a stroll along the river or visits to cafes and breweries.

Find Patagonia trips or check out our Patagonia Trip Prep page!

5. India

The northern region of India, where cities like New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur offer a wealth of sights and activities, is a can’t-miss. Visiting in October is the best. You can expect warm, sunny days without rain and experience the country before the really busy part of peak season begins. Delve into India’s rich history with a stop at the Taj Mahal, dazzle your senses with a visit to Khari Baoli (Asia’s largest spice market!), take a street food tour via rickshaw, and explore the wonder of Old Delhi—ideally traveling between destinations by train to fully appreciate the scenic beauty waiting outside India’s bustling cities.

Find India trips or check out our India Trip Prep page!

No tricks, all treats

Whether you’re looking to extend your summer or lean into fall, there are endless incredible destinations to visit in October. Check out our full library of prep pages to learn more about other destinations, then make spooky season the hottest travel season yet.