When we’re planning to travel, the vast majority of us make plans for the summer months. After all, they’re called ‘summer vacations’ for a reason. But summer-specific travel also has its downsides in the form of endless queues and potentially unbearable heat.
That’s why, while it may mean shirking tradition, you could benefit from considering an October getaway instead. By this time, the summer crowds have cleared, temperatures have generally cooled, and you may find that you can have a more enjoyable break all around.
But, which destinations are most suited to your October intentions? Keep on reading to find out!
# Cyprus
Cyprus is a striking Mediterranean hotspot, but anyone who’s tried to tackle it in the summer months will tell you that it’s not the best mid-summer location. As well as attracting up to four million summer tourists, temperatures here will regularly reach the low 40s between July and August. That’s hot, and will inevitably see you sheltering in your hotel room instead of enjoying sights like the iconic Aphrodite’s Rock.
By comparison, an October trip provides the opportunity to enjoy far more comfortable (but still pleasantly warm) temperatures of around 27°C. Plus, you’ll be able to secure a decent bathing spot (rather than battling with the masses) on striking sand beaches like Lara Beach on the Akamas Peninsula, where you might even spot some local nesting sea turtles!
# Taiwan
As one of the safest countries in Asia, which also benefits from cities like Taipei and its cultural offerings including Lungshan Temple, Taiwan is a tempting tourist destination indeed. But, head here between May and September and you’ll face temperatures as high as 35°C, which likely feel even hotter thanks to the country’s famously humid climate. That’s not going to make for a very pleasant experience, but do you know what would? Heading to that same spot for an autumn trip.
As you can see from this Taipei travel guide, October-November is Taipei’s sweet spot, when you can enjoy lower humidity and comfortable temperatures of around 22°C-28°C. There’s also less chance of getting hit by rainfall during an October trip than if you visited during the rainy summer season! And Taipei isn’t the only autumn spot worth bearing in mind. There’s also a national mid-autumn festival for anyone visiting at the start of October!
# Iceland
Who said an October trip had to be hot? You’re in for cold temperatures whenever you choose to visit a country like Iceland, so there’s really no need to book for summer, when tourism’s at its worst. Heading here in October instead could see you enjoying all of Iceland’s best sites without the crowds. From the Blue Lagoon to the Golden Circle, you shouldn’t see a (long) queue in sight!
The best part? During October, chances to see Aurora Borealis are high in every corner of the country.
From a practical traveler’s perspective, October sits in that sweet spot between peak summer crowds and the rush of holiday season. Flights and accommodations tend to be more affordable, yet destinations still feel alive—restaurants remain open, attractions are accessible, and locals have a little more time (and patience) to engage with visitors.
Weather-wise, October often delivers the best of both worlds. In Europe, for example, you can still bask in Mediterranean warmth without the intensity of July heat, while northern regions showcase spectacular foliage. In Asia, the monsoon is tapering off, and in many parts of the Americas, it’s shoulder season, which means fewer lines and more authentic experiences.
