where travel in october

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Best places to visit in october 2024.

Fall is here, and in many regions the leaves have changed and are ready for their close-up. While in some destinations you'll still have to contend with foliage-seeking tourists, other top getaways in October offer a bit more breathing room after the departure of summer crowds. Taking into account these factors, as well as expert opinion, traveler sentiment and array of sights (among other details), U.S. News chose the best places to visit in October. Have a favorite? Vote below to influence next year's list. 

Yellowstone National Park

Zion national park, british virgin islands, serengeti national park, buenos aires, black forest, asheville, nc, acadia national park.

If "White Lotus" piqued your interest in a Sicilian getaway, but you don't quite have the budget to splurge, plan a trip for October when the summer tourists have gone home. At the start of the offseason, hotel rates in this Italian paradise can drop to almost half of their peak prices. You'll still be able to squeeze in some of the season's last beach days as temperatures typically remain in the 70s. What's more, the streets are likely to be less crowded, so you can easily spend your days sauntering through the region's quaint villages and sampling exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.

If you can handle declining temps (think: 40s and 50s), you'll be rewarded with a wonderful time of year to visit Yellowstone National Park. October sees far fewer visitors than peak summer months, which means you'll encounter less traffic and won't have to jostle for a spot at top attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Plus, you might catch the tail end of elk rutting season and hear their otherworldly bugling. This national park's roads close for the season in November, but keep in mind that some lodging options close earlier, so book your accommodations early.

Pleasant weather, more manageable crowds and fall foliage – what's not to love about Zion National Park in October? Daytime temperatures in the 70s will keep you comfortable for activities like hiking and rock climbing, but pack layers and prepare for cooler temperatures in sunless hiking spots like the Narrows. What's more, leaf peepers won't want to miss taking the Canyon Overlook trail to catch a glimpse of the autumn colors. While fewer travelers tend to visit this national park in October than the summer months, you'll want to avoid peak times like fall break.

Beat the winter holiday rush with an autumn trip to the British Virgin Islands. Though October falls in the middle of the rainy season, this typically means brief squalls rather than days full of rain, and low season travel will mean fewer tourists and great rates on accommodations. The Moorings Interline Regatta also takes place in October, delighting sailors and landlubbers alike with its exhilarating sailboat races and nightly parties. However, these great rewards do come with a bit of risk, as well. Since this island lies in the hurricane belt, you may want to consider travel insurance for a fall trip here.

Summer is undoubtedly the most popular time to visit Iceland's capital, so an October visit will give you access to top sights sans crowds. Take in the city's quirky architecture like Hallgrímskirkja and the Harpa concert hall on a free walking tour before grabbing a craft beer or a bowl of fiskisúpa (fish soup). Temperatures may hover in the 40s, but the area's hot springs and geothermal pools will warm you right up. Plus, as a trade-off for shorter days and cooler weather, you may be able to catch a glimpse of the northern lights this time of year.

October falls within the Southern Hemisphere's spring season, so expect to enjoy long, sunny days and beautiful blooming jacarandas during an October visit to Sydney. Average daytime temperatures rest in the 70s this time of year, meaning you can comfortably check out Sydney Harbour's most famous landmark , the Sydney Opera House, and tour the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. This is also a perfect time to stroll along the coastal walk between the iconic Bondi and Coogee beaches. What's more, October is when two of Sydney's most popular events – the Night Noodle Markets and Sculpture by the Sea – occur.

Serengeti National Park's wildlife-viewing opportunities are incomparable, and visiting in October at the end of its dry season offers certain benefits. October is one of the Tanzanian park's warmest months, with average temperatures sitting in the low 80s. And while you might encounter a few short rain showers toward the end of the month, October is generally still quite dry, meaning you'll find fewer mosquitos and sparse vegetation – which makes it easier to spot animals – during game drives. The best place to catch a glimpse of migrating herds this time of year is in the Northern Serengeti.

Buenos Aires' spring shoulder season promises mild weather and moderate crowds – ideal conditions for exploring this Argentinian capital's charming neighborhoods. Come October, chic Palermo's stately trees, gardens and parks are at their finest, while 70-degree temperatures breathe new life into San Telmo's street fairs and alfresco restaurants. With the money you save on accommodations by avoiding peak tourist season, buy tickets to an opera at Colón Theater, take in a tango show or wine and dine at a parrilla (steakhouse).

Japan may be famous for its spring cherry blossoms, but Kyoto's many beautiful shrines, temples and pavilions shine even brighter among the orange- and red-hued trees that begin to dot the city in October. Strolling the tree-lined Philosopher's Path or taking in the leafy views from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple's verandah will leave you with unforgettable memories of this Japanese city. Plus, if you time your visit around October 22, you can catch two popular festivals, the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) and the Kurama no Hi Matsuri (Kurama Fire Festival).

For smaller crowds and more affordable accommodations and airfare, consider a tropical escape to Aruba in October. During this low season month, hotels slash their prices up to 50%. Plus, the island experiences some of its warmest weather (think: daytime temps in the high 80s) come October, so you can stretch out and enjoy various water sports on popular white sand shores like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Though October can be rainy, showers tend to be brief, leaving plenty of time for fun in the sun. Plus, since Aruba sits below the hurricane belt, storms here are unlikely.

While Germany's Bavaria region and its raucous Oktoberfest celebrations garner a lot of attention every fall, the Black Forest in southwestern Germany offers a quieter escape into nature. Despite its many evergreens, the Black Forest is one of the best destinations in the country for fall foliage. Take in the colors while driving along the Black Forest High Road, riding the Feldberg cableway or boating on Lake Schluchsee. Though you may encounter rain, the Black Forest (the birthplace of Grimm's Fairy Tales), offers plenty of enchanting villages and cozy towns to duck into.

October falls at the end of this Indonesian island's peak dry season, meaning you can enjoy great weather for most of the month without the crowds and high accommodation rates of the busier summer months. Daytime temperatures hover in the high 80s, providing ideal conditions for swimming, surfing and sunbathing at beaches like those in Padang Padang and Sanur. Families on fall break will also enjoy cooling off at the Waterbom Bali water park. What's more, tourist hot spots like Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot Temple are less likely to be packed in October, making it a great time for sightseeing.

As one of the first months without summer tourists, and the final one before chilly temperatures arrive in earnest, October in Lyon is a prime time to visit. Travelers can score dinner reservations and settle in for autumnal feasting in France's third largest city, which is widely celebrated for its cuisine. A stroll through Vieux-Lyon, the city's picturesque old town, will also be more pleasant without rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. What's more, this month, Lyon celebrates its fame as the birthplace of cinema – the Cinematograph was invented here in the late 1800s – with the Lumière Film Festival.

Nothing beats seeing the vibrant foliage take over Asheville in the autumn. With dozens of deciduous tree species showcasing vivid hues of red, yellow and orange come October, this North Carolina destination is a leaf peeping paradise. A drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fall colors and take photos at numerous overlooks. Plus, the mild fall weather is ideal for a scenic hike through the Pisgah National Forest or a stroll around the colorful Biltmore grounds. What's more, with Asheville's booming food scene, you'll be able to cozy up for a top-notch dinner after a day of adventure.

The most beautiful time to visit Acadia National Park is October, hands down. By mid-month, this top attraction in Maine is blanketed by vibrant fall foliage, both along the coast and high atop its many mountains. And starting Oct. 7 every year, Cadillac Mountain (the tallest peak on the North Atlantic seaboard) becomes the first place to see the sun rise in the U.S. Remember to register your car for a trip up the mountain, and bundle up before venturing out to catch a sunrise; it can be quite chilly at the peak early in the morning.

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The Best Places to Travel in October

By Caitlin Morton

As much as we love beach lounging in summer and exploring snowy wonderlands in winter, there’s something extra special about traveling during the fall. Aside from fewer tourists and lower prices, October brings harvest festivals, Halloween parties, and the best foliage of the year. (And those warm beaches are still open, if you’re willing to fly for them.) Whether you’re looking to view some spectacular fall foliage or escape to the warm Caribbean this year, these are 10 of the best places to travel in October.

Note: Due to the Delta variant of coronavirus, it’s a good idea to consider extra precautions if traveling this fall. We recommend investing in “ cancel for any reason ” travel insurance and only booking changeable flights and accommodations. It’s also crucial to obtain medical insurance that will cover you abroad, and to research different countries’ case and vaccination rates when choosing your destination.

Salem, Massachusetts

It’s Halloween this month, so where better to book a trip than America’s unofficial witching capital? Snag a room at The Hotel Salem or The Merchant (they’re both owned by Lark Hotels, famed for its funky makeovers of countless New England inns) and then make your way into town. Salem celebrates its connection to the occult all month with a program of events, including horror film festivals, séances, and a fair with psychics on hand to read your future. (See complete calendar here .)

During the festivities, it’s worth pausing to consider the history of Salem’s witch trials at the 1692 Salem Witch Museum. The museum recreates the trials using actual documents as the basis for its life-size stage sets, and hosts an exploration of witchcraft in all its forms through the ages.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is one of the best places to travel in October, as the month signals the height of springtime in the southern hemisphere. That means you can plan on tons of outdoor activities, from walking among spring blooms in Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden to touring vineyards in Franschhoek. You could also spend an entire trip hopping between Cape Town’s best beaches. Camps Bay Beach is worth visiting for the views of Lion's Head and the Twelve Apostles alone, as is Windmill Beach (a 10-minute walk from Boulders Beach) for its warm water and boulders you can jump off.

Stay at Readers’ Choice Awards darling Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel , 15-room Georgian-era townhouse tucked away in a residential street in Gardens (a fashionable neighborhood known for its restaurants, bars, and interior shops). The street-level luxury suites come with their own spacious sun terraces and private pools, making you feel like you’re in an incredibly beautiful private home.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Known as “the most photographed event in the world,” the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (October 2 to 10) does not disappoint, offering families and travelers the chance to get up close with hundreds of seven-story balloons ranging from cute animals to Darth Vader. You'll want to wake up before dawn to get a prime viewing spot for the Mass Ascension, when all the balloons rise together to the tune of "The Star Spangled Banner."

You can crash later that night at Hotel Chaco , a sleek, contemporary property with Native American–inspired art and architecture located in the heart of Old Town. That ideal location and perfect October weather means you can explore all the museums and markets downtown without breaking a sweat.

Loreto, Mexico

We’re big fans of the Baja California Sur peninsula in Mexico, with its beautiful scenery and luxury resorts. While most tourists flock to Los Cabos , set your sights on the underrated city of Loreto. Located about 230 miles north of Cabo, the town is best known for its secluded, unspoiled setting on the Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For stress-free planning, book a stay at Villa del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa at the Islands of Loreto , where guests can enjoy scuba diving tours, cultural city tours, whale watching excursions, kayaking, surfing, and ATV desert tours. After a day spent adventuring, head back and unwind at the 39,000-square-foot Sabila Spa or one of the resort’s five swimming pools.

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Aspen, Colorado

Aspen may seem like a bit of an obvious choice (hello, mountains famously full of yellow leaves), but obvious isn’t always a bad thing. Hotel Jerome is a great place to set up camp, with a huge array of activities on tap for guests looking for an outdoor adventure—think horseback riding in the Rockies, riding a Jeep through alpine backcountry, and stand-up paddleboarding along the Colorado River. The hotel can also arrange day trips to the Maroon Bells, a pair of mountains that is one of the most photographed spots in the entire state. In fact, professionals are known to flock to the shores of Maroon Lake well before sunrise to nab that stunning fall shot.

The Bavarian Alps, Germany

An autumn trip to southern Germany is about so much more than Oktoberfest (which has been canceled for 2021 anyway). Fall may be the best season to visit the Bavarian Alps , when the weather is perfectly cool and the mountains transform into a technicolor dreamscape. The season is prime for outdoor enthusiasts as well, with areas like Berchtesgaden and Lake Tegernsee lending themselves to some epic scenic hikes. Shutterbugs are never disappointed by the Disney-esque Neuschwanstein Castle, whose white turrets look best against a backdrop of deep reds and oranges.

Spend at least a couple days tucked away in Hotel Bachmair Weissach , a modern alpine property located in the lake town of Tegernsee. With walls adorned with antlers, a cloistered courtyard, plaid carpets, and scalloped wood balconies off each of its 141 rooms, it will fulfill every romantic Bavarian fantasy you can think of.

Barbados made headlines in 2020 when it announced its Welcome Stamp visa for sun-seeking digital nomads. Valid for 12 months, the visa allows anyone earning over a certain salary to live and work remotely temporarily. If you’re not ready to commit to a year-long visit, it’s still worth flying down here in October. Book an oceanfront villa at The Crane , one of the country’s finest resorts, and spend a few days exploring the Bajan rum circuit.

Though it’s now ubiquitous across the Caribbean, rum was formally first distilled at the Mount Gay Rum headquarters in 1703. Head to its visitor center and you’ll be able to learn more of that history, as well as sample a range of great dark and white blends. Then head to Bathsheba Beach on the east coast—one of the best stretches of sand in the world—where you'll find big, surf-able waves and shallow pools carved by the coral reef right off the shore.

Asheville, North Carolina

Don't discount the South when it comes to fall foliage, especially the Blue Ridge Parkway and Carolina mountains. Make Asheville your home base for exploring the parkway in both directions: to the south, drive to Pisgah National Forest, filled with waterfalls and fall foliage–covered hills on view from Looking Glass Rock, and to the north, the curving Linn Cove Viaduct hugs Grandfather Mountain, offering some of the parkway’s most iconic views.

Get a dose of the funky lifestyle in downtown Asheville: sample the African-meets-Appalachian food at Benne on Eagle , browse fem theory and queer lit at Malaprop's Bookstore and Cafe , and drink a Strawberry Milkshake IPA at Highland Brewing Company . Stay at Asheville's best boutique property, The Foundry Hotel, for comfortable rooms with exposed brick walls, a chic lobby bar, and a restaurants serving up modern spins on comfort food.

Santorini, Greece

More than two million people visit Santorini each year. To dodge those crowds—and to experience a more authentic side of the island—plan your trip during the off-season in ​​October and November. Visit Red Beach and take in the legendary sunsets in Oia, of course, but then search for some more under-the-radar spots. Only one in 20 travelers to Santorini goes to Akrotiri, an almost perfectly preserved ancient city and archaeological site. Visit some wineries at Vlychada, or hire a guide to take you around Akrotiri.

Then get some rest at Incognito Villa , located at the end of a dirt track on the beach near Monolithos and the airport. It has its own garden and a little pool, and you can walk in either direction along the beach to a taverna. Even in the height of summer, it is amazingly quiet.

Hudson Valley, New York

If you're looking to totally lean into the cider-sipping, sweater-wearing, pumpkin-picking vibe of fall, look no further than the Hudson Valley. Aside from offering primo leaf peeping opportunities, October is the best time to go apple picking or sample some hard cider made from local produce at Angry Orchard. Alternatively, take in a movie at the Four Brothers Drive-In Theater or celebrate Halloween with the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze in the grounds of Van Cortlandt Manor ( advance reservations required). More than 7,000 pumpkins are displayed there each night, including a 25-foot-tall Statue of Liberty, all of which are carved onsite by a team of 1,000 volunteers.

Look to Warren Street in the heart of town for accommodations: either at the retro Rivertown Lodge , complete with wood fire burners and bicycles to borrow, or the relatively new Maker Hotel , filled with one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture and a restaurant serving up ingredients sourced from local farms.

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The best holiday destinations in October 

By Sarah James

October can be many things. It can be the dreamy scent of bonfire smoke on restorative air; pumpkins on porches; blazing leaves. Or, Down Under, it might be the abundance of spring – and a fine time to explore new Aussie cooking . In much of Asia , rains and humidity are abating, so both riotous cities and off-grid escapes are at their best. And with the steamy, congested summer a distant memory, it’s the savvy traveller’s time for a classic California road trip , or an in-demand beach break. We’ve got October holiday ideas for sustainable touring, shopping, stays and getting around, too. For more, see our guide to where is hot in October .

Our choices for the best holiday destinations in October

Temperature: 27°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Perfect autumn beach destination: Europe, a Mediterranean island, but so far south-east it has the climate of the Middle East. Enter Cyprus. A rich history and eclectic culture, a blissful climate and fantastic beaches. Away from the dramatically beautiful coastline and the beachfront hotels is the lesser-explored interior, the Troodos mountains – the Cotswolds of Cyprus – with their vineyards and hillside villages and friendly tavernas.

Where to stay: Anassa is one of our favourite hotels in Europe, particularly for families. For a more adult stay, try the glossy beachside Amavi in Paphos. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Cyprus .

Los Cabos, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 15 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT-7

Beachy Eden ‘Cabo’ is all about switching off in style. This sun-drenched spot is always hot hot hot: where smart hotels such as the One&Only have restaurants by elite chefs such as Jean-Georges Vongerichten and host birthday parties for starry guests including Jennifer Aniston. In winter, all and sundry come for the weather (it rains in summer). Praise be for October, then, when the mercury’s high but occupancy low. Los Cabos is actually two towns at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula – Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. The latter retains more traditional charm, and has the chicest hotels: mid-century fans will love Thompson’s The Cape. Don’t miss Puerto Raiz in San José del Cabo, an outdoor foodie hub with two restaurants and a distillery, set within 13 acres of orchards and gardens. All produce is sourced onsite – including for the distillery’s spirits and cocktails – while cheese, meat and seafood come from local purveyors in neighbouring Baja towns such as La Paz and Todos Santos.

Where to stay: One&Only Palmilla , an elegant retreat and one of the best hotels in Los Cabos .

Mauritius, Indian Ocean

Temperature: 25°C high; 20°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+3

It's springtime in Mauritius in October; the weather is warming up after a long, warm winter. But it's not yet humid or rainy. Huge Indian Ocean-sized flowers are bursting in bloom and animal hoots and chattering come riffling out of the rainforest. There’s not a lot you can do about the carbon-belching flight to Mauritius, but, once you’re there, you can opt for a sustainable stay. Mauritius Conscious Travel offers solar-powered glamping with vegetarian meals sourced from an onsite garden, plus motor-free day trips by sea kayak, mountain bike and climbing rope. If anyone offers you a trip to Mauritius at any other time of year, we urge you not to turn it down. But October is definitely a goodie.

Where to stay: For a private stay, Maradiva is a smart all-villa resort. At Shangri-La Le Touessrok , guests can enjoy exclusive access to a private island. See more of the top hotels in Mauritius .

Provence, France

Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours by plane; 6.5 hours by Eurostar Time difference: GMT+1

Everybody goes to Provence in summer. But for food, for tranquillity, for scenery, October is deeply delicious, its vineyards a vibrant ochre, morning mists shrouding the glades of the Luberon at dawn. Autumn is the season of wine and truffles and food festivals, when Provence’s slow-paced villages are uncrowded except for locals, markets heaped with harvest spoils. And the weather is still largely warm and dry – ideal T-shirt weather for country walks and bike rides.

Where to stay: Hôtel Crillon Le Brave is a classic favourite; while Coquillade has just reopened after a facelift, a restored Provençal village in the Luberon, with spoiling suites, a destination spa, and its own vineyards.

Málaga, Spain

Temperature: 24°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

On Spain ’s sunniest costa, Málaga’s exuberant young crowd has injected a fresh energy into this little seaside city, earning it a reputation for being a pocket-sized Barcelona , where you’ll find sizzling art and food scenes and late-summer heat. Its charming old town, though small, is packed with buzzy little restaurants and boutiques selling artisan-made fashion and homewares; there’s a museum dedicated to Picasso and a theatre run by Antonio Banderas, both Málaga natives. More modern kicks are found at the regenerated port with its Rubik’s-Cube-like Pompidou Centre. And why not explore Málaga carbon-free – Urban Bicycles rents out the most beautiful handmade mint-green bikes for cruising along the promenade, which runs from the city centre to the beach bars north of the city.

Where to stay: At the 18th-century Palacio Solecio , which opened in 2020 after a full overhaul to become the city’s most beautiful hotel, and the latest in Pablo Carrington’s stable (along with Formentera’s Gecko Hotel & Beach Club and Mallorca’s Cap Rocat).

The Greek islands, Greece

Temperature: 24°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

The more southerly of the small Greek islands – the Dodecanese and the Cyclades – are still hot and sunny well into October – and there are some sensational beaches on which to enjoy it. Rhodes, with the lovely cobbled Lindos and parties in its ancient ruins. Milos , which has some of the best beaches in the Greek Islands. We love unspoilt Symi, Nisyros and Patmos ; while Santorini and Mykonos are eternal big-hitters. Pick any one, they're all lovely. Or go island-hopping around them all. Just remember: cruise ships are an issue on the Greek islands, disgorging thousands into small port towns and diverting visitors to just a small number of shops and restaurants. If you’re island-hopping, opt to do it by sailboat instead: this is not only more environmentally friendly, but smaller vessels can take you to more off-the-beaten-track beaches, coves and towns.

Where to stay: We have a long list of the best Greek island hotels to choose from. In terms of the newest openings to know about, Once in Mykonos Luxury Resort is a chilled hideaway for young families and dapper partygoers. Another name to note is Oku Kos , which effortlessly combines local culture with relaxation.

Japanese Alps, Japan

Temperature: 20°C high; 9°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

The masses might go mad for cherry blossom season, but arguably Japan ’s most arresting sight is its Alps in autumn. Vibrant reds, oranges and yellows sprawl across the ranges, reflected in jade-green lakes and rivers. Hiking trails get very busy, but the outstanding vistas more than make up for it, and the ever-organised Japanese excel at high-altitude mountain huts, where you can get a private room and bento box-style dinner. Afterwards, the spa towns around Takayama are adept at soothing aching limbs. Upmarket ryokans, such as Fukuji Onsen’s Yumoto Choza, offer both outdoor and indoor hot-spring baths, fine-dining kaiseki dinners and gorgeous traditional rooms with tatami mats and sliding paper screens.

Ningaloo Reef

Temperature: 33°C high; 16°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 16 hours 45 minutes to Perth direct, then 1 hour 50 minutes to Learmonth for Ningaloo. Time difference: GMT+8

Off the coast of Western Australia , the country’s most pristine coral reef has become known as a marine superhighway. Diving and snorkelling trips are technicolour dreams, teeming with fish, turtles and sharks, and Ningaloo Reef is one of only a handful of places in the world where you can swim alongside whale sharks and humpback whales, when they journey alongside the reef on their on their way to feeding grounds in the Antarctic. Or take a boat out as they breach, dramatically, out of the water around you.

Where to stay: Guests can walk straight from their safari tent at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef – the only hotel in the Cape Range National Park – into the marine-rich waters of the reef. The tented camp’s local guides will unearth the wonders of sea and bush, and arrange experiences such as swimming with whales.

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Temperature: 14–26ºC Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13h 30m (one change) Time difference: GMT+2

Marking the turn of winter into spring, October is a wonderful month to visit this storied Indian Ocean island. The weather is dry and warm, the nights are cool, the jacarandas are in bloom, and it is egg-laying season for turtles and birthing season for lemurs – poster girls for Madagascar’s unique and diverse indigenous wildlife, which is found in abundance from the country’s ancient forests to its dreamy white-sand beaches.

Where to stay: On cast away fantasy Nosy Ankao off Madagascar’s north coast, Miavana is the best eco-lodge in the country: a five-star private-island resort dedicated to conservation, with expert guides to take guests lemur-and turtle-watching, fishing and diving. Abercrombie & Kent offers the 13-night Classic Madagascar trip from £5,960pp.

Darjeeling, India

Temperature: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 13 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

This month marks the end of monsoon season, and an excellent time to visit India’s most famous hill station as the rain and fog peel back to reveal extravagant Himalayan views. Top of the list should be a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill, to see the frosted peaks of the world’s third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga, bathed in a peachy glow. The effect is said to be best in mid-October; keep your eyes peeled and you’ll even spot Everest on the left. Other than that, it’s a relaxing time tasting the ‘Champagne of teas’ at local plantations, riding the UNESCO-listed steam railway (affectionately known as ‘the toy train’) and taking afternoon tea in Victorian-style heritage hotels.

Where to stay : Ging Tea House is among the oldest tea estates in the region, from which you can take lovely guided hikes. Or see more hotels across India for gorgeous monsoon views . Do remember that water scarcity is a huge problem in Darjeeling, so look for hotels with responsible practices around conservation (such as rainwater harvesting), and be mindful of how much you use.

Vienna, Austria

Temperature : 15°C high; 5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2hrs 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Though Austria’s capital is better known for grand imperial palaces and an even grander musical legacy (Mozart and Beethoven), one of the city’s finest assets is its urban vineyards. Forget a designated driver, just take the tram to the pretty outer suburbs, where rows of vines spread across grassy slopes, as skyline views and the Danube stretch out below. October marks the harvest, when the vineyards are at their greenest and winemakers open up their operations to enquiring minds (and mouths). There are several designated wine trails to follow, where vintners hand out samples from both cellar and kitchen, and autumn’s mild, sunny days are ideally suited to frolics in the fields. Where to stay: Park Hyatt Vienna , a magnificently grand stay – one of our favourite hotels in Vienna .

Austin, Texas

Temperature: 27°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT-6

Austin’s other festival happens in October: Austin City Limits , in Zilker Park – an altogether easier shebang to negotiate than SXSW if you’re not in the industry. And autumn brings glorious weather to Texas – blue skies, mild warm days, low humidity – which is just right for a road trip out of the USA’s coolest, weirdest state capital across the high Texan desert to find historical charm in San Antonio and more weirdness, along with knockout art and sensational food, in Marfa. Rent bikes at Lance Armstrong’s Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop , fired up by a farm-sourced, single-origin, Fair-Trade, shade-grown, home-roasted coffee from the shop’s Juan Pelota Cafe.

Where to stay: The Texas-based Bunkhouse group has places to stay in Austin and San Antonio, including Austin’s  Carpenter Hotel  in a former union hall near Zilker Park and beautiful  Hotel Havana  in a riverside house in San Antonio, while avant-garde hotelier Liz Lambert, a true original, is behind the out-there trailer park  El Cosmico  in Marfa.

Churchill, Canada

Temperature: 1°C high; -5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 21 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

Better to be a visitor than a resident in Arctic Churchill, which in autumn earns the dubious honour of becoming “polar bear capital of the world”. As the surrounding Hudson Bay freezes, these massive mammals – male polar bears can weigh as much as 10 men – invite themselves over, in search of seals. Great news for wildlife watchers, who can board specially reinforced tundra buggies to get up close to earth’s largest land carnivore; not so great for the people of Churchill, who are apt to find polar bears hanging around like delinquent youths at the local bus stop. The largest groups gather in October. Consider a tundra buggy safari with Frontiers North Adventures , respected locally for thoughtful initiatives including creating the town’s first recycling programme; employing staff and sourcing supplies from within the community; and investing in causes such as Churchill’s Canadian Junior Rangers and non-profit conservation outfit Polar Bears International .

Atacama Desert, Chile

Temperature: 25°C high; 5°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21hrs Time difference: GMT -4

The world’s driest desert isn’t the hottest, but it is perhaps the most starkly beautiful – so Mars-like that actual Mars rovers are brought here for test drives. Red canyons and sand dunes, whooshing geyers and steaming volcanoes, salt flats and hot springs stretch out as far as the eye can see. It’s largely devoid of a drinking water supply or any natural shade, so there are few settlements, which means no pollution, explaining why it has also lately garnered buzz as a premier stargazing destination. The fabulously remote Explora Atacama, for example, has a private observatory as well as a spa and bespoke-bred horses. October, shoulder season, offers a holy trinity: empty vistas unspoiled by fellow visitors, lower room rates and temperate daytime conditions. Don’t ignore the highland hamlets and historic sites in the Atacama region – spending your tourist dollars here helps to sustain local and indigenous communities and preserve their heritage. Where to stay: Hotel Wara , a spacious and rambling escape in the desert. Explora Atacama , meanwhile, is a gorgeously rugged ranch turned spoiling escape, with a spa, an observatory and an exemplary restaurant.

Watch a video of a dramatic ride across the Atacama Desert

Rome, Italy

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

Tutti Italia is on holiday all month long in August. You might think that would make Rome relatively quiet, with every Roman gone to the beach, but it's not; it's unbearably busy and unbearably hot. July, too, is unbearably busy and hot; so is much of June. May and September used to be quieter, but lots of people realised that and now they are busy too. Winter can be a bit miserable, though Christmas is quite busy. So October, by default, becomes our month of choice to visit Rome , when it is less busy, still lovely and warm, and you can selfie at the Trevi Fountain in that magic late-summer sunlight without quite so many tourists ruining the view.

Where to stay: Hotel de' Ricci , a retro-cool hotel in an artsy neighbourhood and one of the best hotels in Rome .

The Lake District, UK

Temperature: 10°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours by train from London Time difference: GMT+0

Even when it rains – and it does rain here, a lot – the Lake District must be one of the most wistfully beautiful places in the world. Never more (many would say) than in fiery autumn, when mist and woodsmoke mix in the morning and good days are pin-sharp, bright with red-gold trees and bracken covering the fells. If only someone could capture such beauty in words.

Where to stay: Foodies will love the Michelin-starred restaurant at Gilpin Hotel & Lake House . For a quant village stay, check in to The Black Bull Inn . For a private stay, we love the look of this cosy Airbnb near Ullswater . For more, check out our list of the best Airbnbs in the Lake District .

New England, USA

Temperature: 17°C high; 7°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 7 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

As above, except with less rain, and leafpeepers (for that is what they call them here) tend to drive to look at the Fall foliage rather than put on walking boots. Combine the fiery Vermont countryside with a Boston city break.

Where to stay: Castle Hill Inn , the best places to watch the boats become silhouettes against the Atlantic Ocean, one of the best things to do on Rhode Island .

Temperature: 35°C high; 16°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 14 hours Time difference: GMT+1

You can make a convincing case for Botswana as the world’s greatest safari destination. The government’s “low impact, high experience” mandate makes for more intimate camps; Serengeti-like jeep scrums just aren’t a thing. Then there’s the Okavango Delta, an immaculate wetland wilderness teeming with life. (Conservation is so successful that South Africa relocates endangered rhino here.) Tourism tails off in October because of rising heat, but the flooded Okavango is water-cooled, while a lack of vegetation – munched over the dry winter – puts game-viewing at its peak. Prices drop towards the end of the month, and the new, solar-powered Qorokwe Camp by Wilderness Safaris, sitting on its own lagoon, is a slick pick. A bush walk with the San – the indigenous people of the Kalahari desert – conserves their culture in more ways than one, fostering both education for visitors and employment for the San. But do your research before booking: some tours can be less than respectful. Where to stay: Xigera Safari Lodge , a lodge putting a swish edge on sustainability, or read about the best Botswana safari holidays in the Okavango Delta .

Seville, Spain

Temperature: 26°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

A hot destination right now, the winds of change are finally blowing through old Seville – and October is the best time to visit for fresher air, when the winding streets are a little less sultry but no less romantic. Culturally there's a lot happening, from pop-up galleries and cafés to a gastronomic revolution.

Where to stay: For a taste of truly regal extravagance, book in to Hotel Alfonso XIII . For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Seville .

Temperature: 29°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 18 hours Time difference: GMT-11

With the summer crowds gone, low rainfall and mellowing prices before the winter holidays, what better time to head for Hawaii? Of course, there’s more to the archipelago than Big Island: Kauai for secret swimming holes and charming local bars; Oahu for top food and surf; and even Maui, with its ever-popular 30 miles of beach, has some hush-hush stuff up its sleeve – seek out the rural artists’ community at Makawao, or go on an agri-visit to Surfing Goat Dairy, a farm on the slopes of a volcanic crater. Given the amount of importing that goes on here – and that goes for hotels, restaurants and shopping chains as much as groceries – shopping local helps the Hawaiian people maintain an identity that is uniquely their own. Buying locally made fashion not only guarantees designs that are true to the culture, but supports master weavers and artisans: see the likes of Hana Hou (Big Island); Native Intelligence (Maui); Na Mea Hawaii (Oahu); and Ohana Shop (Kauai). Where to stay: Four Seasons Resort Lana'i , an alluring escape.

Perugia, Italy

Temperature: 18°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK : 2 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

It’s not difficult to get excited about a place that holds an annual 10-day festival celebrating the world’s favourite sweet treat. Every October, Umbria’s capital in central Italy hosts cooking classes, exhibitions and (most importantly) tasters to celebrate the town’s most famous export – chocolate. It’s a diabetic’s purgatory, a sweet lover’s dream and a local staple. The Belgians have their pralines, Oaxaca has its drinking chocolate and the Swiss have Lindt – but Perugia is home to baci. The word translates as “kisses”, and the story goes that a young chocolatier created a special sweet for her paramour, wrapped in a love letter and – naturally – sealed with a kiss. Today, baci somewhat seductively resemble a nipple, and still come wrapped in romantic proverbs and poems. Perugia is also a town rich in history and art, set on a hilltop peppered with medieval aqueducts, curious cobbled staircases and views that appear out of nowhere.

Where to stay: Find boutique hotels in Tuscany and Umbria, Italy

The Galapagos Islands

Temperature: 25°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT-7

Out of this world all year round – there is no other wildlife like this on earth. However for maximum nature shows, it's peak season for fish and birds from June until the end of October in the Galápagos Islands . It's also when there's least rain. Wait until October and most of the other tourists will have gone back to work; plus the sea should have warmed up a bit in case you were thinking of taking a dip (and you should) to get up close to the phenomenally varied marine life. And while most visitors explore the Galápagos via small cruise ships, it is possible to book land-based tours, where you’ll stay on several islands and take small- boat excursions by day. This means eating at locally run restaurants, visiting land-based businesses (such as farms), and exploring the human history of the islands, too.

Where to stay: Finch Bay , one of the island’s longest-standing hotels as recommended in our expert's guide to the Galapagos .

Taipei, Taiwan

Temperature: 27°C high; 22°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+7

Yet to draw the trend-obsessed like Tokyo , or shoot to relevance like Seoul , the Taiwanese capital is a broadly undiscovered, just-as-thrilling blend of both. From Taoist temples to record-setting skyscrapers, flashy shopping malls to throbbing, neon-lit night markets, it’s a fascinating cultural smash: all cheap street-side beers and grilled cuttlefish on a stick one minute; a bonkers club with a waterfall on the dance floor the next. Towards the end of October the rain stops, humidity dials down and skies clear, so you can take in the glitzy cityscape, best viewed from the 230ft Miramar Ferris Wheel, or the 89th floor of once-world's-tallest tower, Taipei 101.

Where to stay: There’s more bling at the W , where room categories have names like Fabulous and Extreme Wow.

Temperature: 31°C high; 25°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT+6

October is the beginning of dry season in Vietnam’s north and south, where monumental natural spectacles and buzzing city scenes both abound. Up top, hill station Sapa is the gateway to misty treks; the capital Hanoi is all chaos, condensed-milk coffees on low plastic stools and some of the best food you’ll ever taste. Down at the bottom, the Mekong Delta is a whole world bobbing on canals and streams; and Ho Chi Minh City is where the bohos go – don’t miss The Café Apartment, a nine-storey block stuffed with fairy-lit mini-boutiques and craft coffee stores. High season creeps up in November, so it’s also the last chance for lower rates. In Sapa, the most popular activities are trekking the terraced slopes and staying with hill tribes, and the best way to do both is with Sapa O’Chau . This social enterprise, founded by a single mother from the Black Hmong tribe, is a nonprofit homestay and trekking service, which puts funds back into the community: improving village schools, providing English classes to Hmong guides and street vendors, distributing winter clothes to local children, and more. Where to stay: An Lam Retreats in Ninh Van Bay , one of the best hotels in Vietnam .

Adelaide, Australia

Temperature: 21°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 21 hours Time difference: GMT+8:30

Sydney and Melbourne – so yesterday. It’s Adelaide’s time to shine, and how. The wine-producing Adelaide Hills had long overshadowed South Australia’s coastal capital, but a vital new food scene is changing all that. And thank the Hills’ surrounding farms for fresh finds that Adelaide’s urban rivals can only covet. All that natural bounty is paired with October’s crisp air, as the beginnings of spring slough off winter’s edge. If you fancy getting off-grid, CABN has a number of tiny houses tucked into the South Australian wilderness, less than an hour’s drive from Adelaide’s CBD. These solar-powered minimalist escapes also have composting loos and rainwater catchment, and sit close to conservation parks, heritage bushland and wine country.

Read more about the best restaurants in Adelaide

Mendocino, California

Temperature: 14°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-8

October is when Northern California finally gets its act together, dropping the fog and chilly winds that never fail to surprise under-dressed tourists, opting instead for more Cali-appropriate shimmering sunshine and bright, blue skies. It’s also the ideal time to make the road trip to one of the state’s best-kept secrets, Mendocino County: a thrilling coastal drive 160 miles north of San Francisco, with enough dramatic sea cliffs, lanky redwoods and crashing ocean to put Big Sur to shame. Mendocino town looks like a slice of New England picked up and dropped off on a California headland, and recalls its 1950s bohemian heyday with a surplus of art galleries and no chains. That hippie spirit also lives on in the Mendocino wine region, known for the country’s biggest haul of organic vines. Try a true taste of Mendocino at Harbor House Inn , where the 25-seat dining room hosts an ever-changing, hyper-local menu that has been awarded the county’s first-ever Michelin star. Everything you eat here has been sourced from within a 30-mile radius.

Where to stay: Half an hour up the coast, The Inn at Newport Ranch is a place of wild extremes. Or see more of the best hotels in California for more ideas.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Temperature: 35°C high; 24°C low Season: winter Flight time from UK: 7 hours Time difference: GMT+3

Summer is when Dubai hibernates: as the desert city heats up to 40 degrees Celsius and beyond, even skyscrapers seem to perspire, the al-fresco fun packs up and everyone bolts for the AC-cooled inside. But in October Dubai springs to new life: beach clubs reopen, restaurant terraces are jammed and a dip in the Arabian Gulf no longer feels like swimming in a scorching-hot spring. Temperatures in the high 20s also make a desert excursion less like an episode of Bear Grylls ’ Born Survivor. Enough of the world’s biggests and tallests? Poke into the boutiques, galleries and Foster + Partners-designed buildings of the freshly minted Dubai Design District. Where to stay: Al Maha , an exclusive desert haven set within a conservation reserve. See more of our favourite hotels in Dubai for more ideas.

Temperature: 19°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT+5

The remote Himalayan kingdom known for its Gross National Happiness Index, pristine peaks and precariously perched Tiger’s Nest Monastery, makes a point of exclusivity – foreign visitors face a hefty daily tariff for the privilege of stepping within its borders. The payoff, of course, is the rare purity of a nation largely untouched by the outside world. Given that much of Bhutan’s pleasures are found in hikes to sacred mountains and remote temples, the cool mountain air and clear skies of October make it a prime time to visit. The Six Senses Bhutan – comprising five different lodges – adds a touch of luxury to some of the country’s most scenic valleys and forests. The daily tariff ensures that Bhutan only deals in sustainable tourism – limiting visitors in this way protects the kingdom’s culture, land and traditions. But you can make sure the money you spend goes directly to the Bhutanese you meet by shopping in local markets, eating in neighbourhood restaurants and sleeping in heritage properties or homestays.

Where to stay: Read our spa review of COMO Uma Paro, Bhutan .

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 5 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Perhaps the most captivating country in the Middle East, Jordan has an embarrassment of spectacular things to see: ancient and awe-inspiring Petra, the Roman city of Jerash, the Dead Sea, the Red Sea, great desertscapes where you can stay overnight in a Bedouin camp. In October there are still bright sunny days that light the rock of Petra up rose-red; but it is cool enough to journey into the Valley of the Moon on camel or horseback by day, and warm enough to sleep out under the starry sky by night. Don’t miss the opportunity to camp out in Wadi Rum. A co-operative of Bedouin tribes runs the majority of trekking and camping trips, and they rely on tourism to hold onto their traditional way of life.

The Turkish Coast

Temperature: 26°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 4 hours Time difference: GMT+2

Turkey's beautiful Aegean and Bosphorus coasts are still hot in October, the beaches uncluttered by holidaymakers. There's a distinctly Greek feel to these regions, and between the coves you'll find dreamy boutique hotels that are good value for money out of season, and unexpectedly boho fishing villages. Alaçati is one of our favourites; and picturesque Selimiye, an hour from Dalaman, tipped (by us) as the new Kalkan. Likewise Istanbul – too prickly, too hot in summer – is more pleasant to explore out of season.

Where to stay: Mandarian Oriental in Bodrum , a glamorous, starry beach base. Alaçati is a good spot for small boutique hotels – a better bet for eco-friendliness than a sprawling coastal resort. The Stay Warehouse is a super-cool, adults-only converted brewery built from regionally sourced, recycled wood, bricks and glass, and the restaurant serves platters of local fruit, olives and cheese.

Temperature: 23°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 25 Time difference: GMT+1

Mallorca and Ibiza get the lion’s share of the Balearic spotlight. But little Menorca is just as beautiful. In the summer, this tiny island’s roads are largely closed to private vehicles to avoid congestion and protect the natural environment – especially around the most beautiful beaches. By October, things have calmed down, and most summer tourists have left. More fool them: Menorca is still warm and sunny well into the autumn, and the sea – warmed by the Mediterranean sun all summer – is still pleasant to swim in. In shoulder season, you can explore at your own pace.

Where to stay: at Menorca Experimental , a handsome, pared-back hideout from the Parisian Experimental Group, or at Christine Bedfor , a smart townhouse in Mahon.

Temperature: 21°C high; 14°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 20 Time difference: GMT+1

Sicily’s long been drawing Italo-philes after something a little different to the mainland – more rugged, more fierce – but the White Lotus effect has really ramped up tourism to this little island over the past few years. See what all the fuss is about by planning a trip in October when the oppressive summer heat has finally died down, and the peak-season crowds have melted away. The landscape here is extraordinary; cities plonked at the bottom of smoking volcanoes, glossy islands cast away in the sea, and gently crumbling grandiose architecture that hints at a patchwork of influences from Moorish to Norman. You’ll also find some of Europe’s best food here; fat tubes of cannoli and refreshing granita that you won’t stop talking about even after you leave.

Where to stay: In Palermo, we love Villa Igea (which was featured on our 2023 Gold List ) or stay at Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , set against the backdrop of Mount Etna.

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9 Best Places to Travel in October 2023

These are the best places to visit in October in the United States and around the world.

Greg Meland/Getty Images

When there’s a chill in the air and a crimson hue in the trees, you know that autumn has arrived. October is the first full month of the fall season, and it's an invigorating time of year for many travelers. They grab a sweater and head outside for adventures, or hop in the car for a road trip to enjoy the scenery. 

Food festivals, harvest events, an eclipse, and a sky filled with brilliant hot air balloons are a few reasons to plan an autumn trip. If you're able to travel further, note that Kenya's great migration culminates in October, and Istanbul celebrates fall with an art festival. Or head south of the equator if you'd prefer to dodge the cold and enjoy spring beauty instead.

Whatever you're looking for in an fall trip, we've got you covered. Here are our nine picks for the best places to travel in October 2023.

Mendoza, Argentina

Edsel Querini/Getty Images

If you're a fan of Malbec wine, and wouldn't mind drinking it in springtime weather, head to this agricultural region of Argentina, located about 650 miles west of Buenos Aires. The dramatic silhouette of the Andes mountains, plus vineyards and delicious food, make Mendoza an appealing destination. And there’s plenty to do beyond wine tasting and vineyard tours in October. Take a hot air balloon ride over olive groves, grapevines, orchards, and farms; visit craft breweries along the Andean beer route ; and stay in one of 21 villas at The Vines Resort & Spa , set in the Uco Valley. Another accommodation option is SB Winemaker’s House & Spa Suites , which features excellent cuisine and wines from Susana Balbo Winery . And at Entre Cielos Wine Hotel & Spa , travelers can enjoy Latin America’s only authentic Turkish hammam .

Klamath County, Oregon

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The total eclipse of April 2024 is inspiring lots of people to book trips to the best viewing spots, but you can experience a similar natural event this year, in Oregon’s Klamath County. A once-in-a-generation annular eclipse will take place on October 14, 2023, and umbraphiles (or eclipse chasers) will be heading to the Klamath Falls area for nearly four minutes of eclipse viewing. You can also celebrate the natural event at EclipseFest23 , too, which will run October 10 to 15 with camping, food, and live music. To extend your trip, add adventures in Crater Lake National Park and Oregon Caves National Monument to your itinerary.

Ojai, California

Courtesy of Ojai Valley Inn

Less than two hours northwest of Los Angeles, Ojai is located in Ventura County among the Topatopa Mountains. October weather is warm and dry, with temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s, so lots of visitors opt outdoors for hiking, golfing, or just relaxing as they wait for Ojai’s famed sunset “pink moment. ” Places to stay include the award-winning Ojai Valley Inn , which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year and is hosting the Ojai Food + Wine Festival from October 26 to 29. The four-day event will feature 50 top chefs, 100 wineries, and events such as a grand tasting at The Farmhouse , the Inn’s exhibition kitchen for guest chefs and culinary demonstrations.

Houston, Texas

Courtesy of Marriott Marquis Houston

October’s mild weather attracts visitors to special events and ongoing attractions in Houston. Just south of downtown, the Houston Museum District features 19 museums in four walkable zones: the Houston Museum of Natural Science , George Observatory , Houston Zoo , and Museum of Fine Arts . The annual Texas Renaissance Festival will be held over eight weekends, beginning October 7. There’s also the Wings over Houston Airshow (October 14 and 15) and Oktoberfest Houston (September 30). Stay at Le Meridien Houston Downtown , with an open-air rooftop bar, or Marriott Marquis Houston , which features the Altitude Rooftop & Pool, famous for its Texas-shaped lazy river. Hotel ZaZa Houston offers two locations, one in the Museum District and one in Memorial City . The 36-story luxury Thompson Houston , with a spa and stylish pool deck, is set to open in November.

Sonoma County, California

S. Greg Panosian/Getty Images

In October, autumn colors appear on the grapevines in this California region, creating a colorful landscape in shades of red and gold as the harvest continues. Mild daytime temperatures make it pleasant to be outdoors here, so you can hike in the mountains, stroll along the coast, or ride a bike among vineyards. Beautiful wineries abound here, including Vérité , Ram’s Gate , Sonoma-Cutrer and St. Francis , and you'll find breweries, distilleries, and cideries, as well. To stay among the vineyards and rolling hills, book a room at the elegant Montage Healdsburg . For a coastal stay, consider Timber Cove or the Lodge at Bodega Bay . Hotel Healdsburg , The Lodge at Sonoma, an Autograph Collection Resort , Dawn Ranch , and MacArthur Place are other great options. The latter property is debuting a new spa, fitness center, and pool in late September.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Move over, Denver — Albuquerque is a mile-high city, too. And you can head even higher in altitude on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway , a thrilling ride to the 10,378-foot peak of the Sandia Mountains, where panoramic views await. Sunny weather and mild temperatures in October are the backdrop for the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta , set for October 7 to 15. During this event, 500 balloons float in the clear skies, a sight so incredible it attracts thousands of visitors each year. Stay nearby at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa between the Sandia Mountains and the Rio Grande River. At the Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town, the authentic flamenco venue Tablao features world-class performers. About an hour away in Santa Fe, stay at Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection , Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi , or Inn of the Five Graces .

Michela Sieman/Travel + Leisure

A beloved vacation destination in summer, Italy sees fewer tourists in the autumn season, so if you'd like a quieter Italian escape, October is your friend. Naples, popular for Pompei and pizza, is home the National Archaeological Museum and the ruins of Herculaneum. Stay at the five-star Romeo Napoli overlooking the Gulf of Naples with a heated rooftop pool and views of Capri and Mt. Vesuvius. The Capri Palace Jumeirah is a luxury option in Anacapri. The Puglia region in the south offers stunning beaches, wineries, and the conical houses called trulli .  In Salento, Palazzo Daniele ’s eleven luxury suites are housed in a 159-year old family palazzo with original frescoes and mosaic flooring. Masseria Torre Maizza in Fasano features ancient olive groves, a rooftop bar, and a private beach club. On the Amalfi coast, the elegant cliffside Borgo Santandrea now offers four new suites and a renovated beach club experience. And set among Montepulciano’s vineyards in Tuscany is Borgo San Vicenzo , a 21-room luxury property. If you're headed to Rome, stay at the elegant Hotel Eden .

London, England

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Like Italy, London is quieter in the post-summer months, but there's still plenty going on. West End theaters have a full schedule of hit shows, and Oktoberfest at London Bierfest , set for October 19 and 20, is a Bavarian-style party in the heart of the city, complete with music, brimming beer steins, and German food. If you can't make that one, take a look at other Oktoberfest events scheduled this month. London Cocktail Week is set for October 12 to 22 and recognizes the city’s cocktail scene, and the Bloomsbury Festival (October 13 to 22) celebrates the area’s history and culture. Halloween is fun in London, too. Excellent hotels throughout the city include The Standard , The Connaught Hotel , DUKES London Mayfair , Four Seasons Hotel at Park Lane , Hotel Café Royal , Brown’s Hotel , and Flemings Mayfair . The Dorchester enhanced its opulent style with renovations completed early this year. And if you like Beaverbrook Town House in Chelsea, and are looking to stay a bit outside the city, consider sister property Beaverbrook , a famed country house set in Surrey.

Boston, Massachusetts

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

Colorful fall foliage draws visitors to Boston every year. Whether you're strolling the historic streets of Beacon Hill, wandering along the Freedom Trail , or enjoying the waterfront, those East Coast leaves will have you looking up. You might also marvel at the annual Head of the Charles Regatta (October 20 to 22), when more than 11,000 local and elite rowers take to the Charles River, with spectators watching from river banks and bridges. Autumn also brings Oktoberfest celebrations throughout the city as early as late September, and events include a parade, live music, and beer gardens. Visitors can get into the Halloween spirit with a Haunted Boston Walking Tour , which includes a stop at Boston’s oldest cemetery. Stay at the Hotel Commonwealth near Fenway Park, the Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall , or the Hotel AKA Boston Common . The Four Seasons Hotel Boston recently reopened after a major design update. 

15 Best Places to Travel to in October If You're Craving a Fall Getaway

Take advantage of the cheap airfare and great deals for these U.S.-based and international locations.

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If you're wondering where to travel in October , you've come to the right spot. Whether you're looking for a tropical beach with warm weather to help you forget about the looming chilly temps back home or you're hoping to find a cheap (but really cool!) destination in Europe, there are so many different places to explore. So, what are you waiting for? Now is the perfect time to plan that last-minute getaway (hey, treat yourself!). It's time to start packing !

Nassau, Bahamas

Nassau is home to gorgeous blue waters, cotton candy sunsets and a variety of tropical resorts, giving tourists a large variety of lodging. Make sure to check out local culinary tours and straw markets as well as the rum distilleries. And for those who want to enjoy a more laid-back kid-free trip, the Sandals Royal Bahamian is an adults-only resort with 10 restaurants, eight bars, seven pools AND a private island.

Charleston, South Carolina

The colorful houses on Charleston's infamous Rainbow Row make for a spectacular photo background. Check out this row of 13 historic homes on East Bay Street, just along The Battery , that have been around since 1740. Other top activities include the city's harbor, Frankie's Fun Park (for the kids), farmers' markets, museums and shopping. Luckily, you can still enjoy the warm temperatures of South Carolina in October without any of the harsh summer humidity. Hotels typically start as low as $100 a night and get more expensive the closer you are to the center of Charleston. Airfare starts around $140 for a round-trip ticket .

RELATED : How One Designer Turned a Charleston Fixer-Upper into Her Dream Home

New York, New York

There's nothing quite like New York in the fall. Enjoy some truly stunning fall foliage in Central Park while walking, biking or boating. Its 800+ acres also has a zoo, where you can get tickets as cheap as $20 . Central Park also boasts eight different restaurants and cafes in addition to the snack carts scattered throughout the park. If you want more of a true-city experience, check out one of the city's 145 museums. See a Broadway show (Wednesday matinees often have the cheapest tickets), experience new cuisines, go shopping, catch a concert and so much more. Bonus: A trip in October also lets you beat the summer crowds and long lines at big attractions, like the Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty .

RELATED : 38 Best Family Vacations That Everyone Will Love, From Babies and Toddlers to Teens

Florence, Italy

Take advantage of the off-season, and say "ciao!" to Italy. The weather is still warm, while hotels and local attractions are more affordable (and manageable). If you're a whiz at budgeting, you might even be able to find hotel lodging and vacation rentals for as low as $94 per night . October is the perfect time for sightseers to enjoy long walks exploring one-of-a-kind architecture, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore Piazza Duomo (pictured here). Honeymooners can have a romantic meal for two with tasty bites from the famous San Lorenzo Market . Meanwhile, festival-goers will love exploring the many food and art festivals going on around the city.

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Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

If you're the kind of person who prefers to spend your vacation primarily in a bathing suit, then you'll want to book a quick flight to Puerto Viejo . October is the month to get the cheapest flights to Costa Rica . Puerto Viejo has everything you could want on vacation — water sports, hiking, zip lining, snorkeling, nightlife, shopping and even animal sanctuaries you can visit. It's the perfect pick whether you're going with your family, girlfriends or partner. The only thing you'll have to worry about is what cocktail you'll be sipping on the beach come happy hour.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

If you love fresh air, nature and wildlife, a trip to Yellowstone sounds like the ideal vacay. Not only do hotels in the area start at $90 a night ($15 if you're camping ), but the impending winter means that wildlife is on full display. Bears, wolves, moose, elk, bison, otters and fox can be seen in almost every area of the park. Hike, walk, or fish and spend your time taking photos to show your friends and family when you get back home. Certain camp grounds start to close in October (or earlier) so make sure you check ahead of time to confirm your sleeping arrangements.

Bar Harbor, Maine

You'll have to venture little ways north to find this idyllic spot. Before the temperature drops to a frigid 19°F come December, take a drive up the East Coast to enjoy the picturesque nature of Bar Harbor. The stunning coastal view is only enhanced by the changing leaves, which hit their peak colors around mid-October. The town's quick-and-easy access to Acadia National Park as well as the Bar Island Trail , Lulu Lobster Boat Ride , Atlantic Climbing School , and whale watching make Bar Harbor the perfect place to take the entire family.

Edinburgh, Scotland

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh has a rustic European beauty that stuns locals and tourists alike. Known for the Edinburgh International Festival and The Fringe , the latter being the world's largest annual international arts festival, Edinburgh boasts good weather, smaller crowds and longer daylight hours in October. It's a great time to explore medieval architecture, the Scottish Highlands , Edinburgh Castle , and Inchcolm Abbey while enjoying a sip or two of whiskey between the excursions thanks to the Scotch Whiskey Experience . Lodging can cost as little as $14 , with the most expensive part of your trip likely being airfare. Fun fact: Edinburgh is often known for having a "nutty, toasty" smell that wafts through the streets due to all the local breweries and distilleries.

St. Augustine, Florida

If you enjoy the warm weather but don't want to be subjected to humidity, a visit to St. Augustine in October is your ideal getaway. As the oldest continuously occupied settlement in the United States , the city is chock-full of historic landmarks, like the Castillo de San Marcos Monument , the Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park and the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum . The kids will especially enjoy the Sea Dragon Airboat Adventure , the Alligator Farm Zoological Park and the Tag! Children's Museum of St. Augustine . The only snag about this trip? The closest airport ( Jacksonville International Airport ) is 50 minutes away.

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The gorgeous views and beautiful fall foliage make the Grand Canyon a great vacation in the outdoors before the winter temperatures hit. Since the crowds decrease dramatically after Labor Day, you and the family can go hiking and spend a night or more camping, rafting or simply enjoying a scenic drive. Flights can cost as little as $281 round trip and lodging can cost as little as $15 if you're planning on camping inside the park.

Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe rarely has a time of year when it's not busy. But the best time to visit is, you guessed it, October. Roundtrip airfare can be found for as little as $68 , hotels as low as $110 a night and camping for a fee of around $41 per night . In addition to running, walking or hiking one of Lake Tahoe's many trails , you can also go apple-picking at a local orchard, take some pictures of the truly stunning fall foliage in the area or attend a local concert. There's also the annual Freakers Ball Annual Halloween costume party . Occasionally, snow can start falling as early as October or November, but if you're fine with a few flurries then book away.

Newport, Rhode Island

Enjoy a relaxing getaway to Newport if you want to enjoy cool fall weather and fun autumn activities. Pick a pumpkin at the Trinity Church Pumpkin Patch while enjoying a homemade pumpkin baked good and live music, take a ghost tour at night through town, or attend one of the many fall festivals like the Rogue Island Comedy Festival , Festa Italiana or Newport Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival . If you're planning a trip with the kids, there's even a Hocus Pocus party on October 5th to celebrate the new sequel, which was filmed in Rhode Island . You can also see the autumn leaves at their most vibrant since peak fall foliage occurs around mid- to late-October in Newport .

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Oranjestad, Aruba

The stunning orange sunrises and sunsets in Oranjestad are enough of a reason to vacation in Aruba. Try activities with the kids like cliff jumping, UTV island tours, submarine expeditions, visits to the local animal sanctuary, snorkeling, fishing and so much more. There are also plenty of exciting adult-friendly activities like nightlife barhopping tours and dinner-and-drink sunset sails.

Lisbon, Portugal

September and October are two of the best months to visit Portugal because you're able to score beach days without large crowds around. With flights priced as little as $293 and a variety of highly-rated yet cheap hotels costing about $72 a night , Lisbon is the perfect vacation for those who want an international trip on a budget. Enjoy local cuisine at the Time Out Market or enjoy a trip around the city to see monuments. Notable attractions include the massive Cristo Rei Christ statue that overlooks the clear blue waters of the Tagus and the Monument to the Discoveries . Other tourist must-sees include the Jerónimos Monastery , Alfama architecture, São Jorge Castle and Belém Tower .

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is calling for those who want stunning ocean views, fewer crowds and cheap airfare. Smaller airlines often offer roundtrip tickets for as little as $108 per person. Stay at a hotel or cut costs by renting an Airbnb, some for only $100 a night . With wineries, museums, hiking trails, beaches and boat tours, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the island makes a romantic getaway for those on their honeymoon with its intimate coastal restaurants, sunset sails, hot springs and Virginia's Cave Villas Oia .

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The best places to visit in October 2023

Aug 11, 2023 • 8 min read

It's not too early to start chasing winter sun in Menorca ©Getty Images/iStockphoto

Just because the year is winding down doesn’t mean your travels need to peter out – particularly when October dazzles with an abundance of epic adventures. Whether you want to get active in Montenegro or wander a medina in Morocco, here are some ideas for where to go in October.

Where are the best places to travel to in October for relaxation?

Menorca, Spain

Why now? Swim, cycle and stroll in “winter’s spring.”

After the heat of high summer abates, hardcore beach-loungers depart but the sun hasn’t quite finished with the easternmost Balearic. In the first weeks of autumn – sometimes dubbed primavera l’hivern , describing the bright, warm days of “winter’s spring” – tourist facilities are yet to close up shop and the Mediterranean lapping Menorca ’s glorious beaches remain delightfully balmy, yet you’ll have many places to yourself. Despite the odd shower as October wears on, conditions are fine for discovering the Anglo-Spanish heritage of charismatic capital Maó (Mahón) and former chief settlement, Ciutadella, marveling at four-millennia-old megalithic monuments, and hiking or biking the undulating 185km (115=mile) Camí de Cavalls coastal circuit. Menorca as a whole is a Unesco Biosphere Reserve , centered on the bird-bustling wetlands of Parc Natural S’Albufera des Grau. Pack binoculars, load up with famed Menorcan pastries and explore in glorious peace.

Why now? Calm seas in paradise.

Seychelles is probably how Pixar would draw paradise: swaying palms, supernaturally blue seas, bling-white sand, artfully smoothed and scattered boulders, plus a few cute turtles wriggling ashore. Fantasy made real. Given these high levels of loveliness and the balmy 25–30°C (77–86°F) year-round temperatures, there’s no awful time to visit this Indian Ocean archipelago. However, October – the period between the brisker southeasterly trade winds switching to the lighter northwesterlies – brings especially calm conditions, so is an excellent month for swimming, snorkeling and diving. The water can be 29°C (84°F), visibility is around 30m (100ft) and migrating whale sharks have arrived. It’s also cheaper than the peak of June to August.

Where are the best places to travel to in October for wildlife and nature?

New Mexico, USA

Why now? For cool weather and hot air.

New Mexico , officially the “Land of Enchantment,” is especially enchanting in sunny, mild October – the 20°C (68°F) days are ideal for discovering the historical riches and extraordinary outdoors. Sites such as 1000-year-old Taos Pueblo nod to the region’s Native American roots, while the capital Santa Fe (founded by Spanish missionaries in 1610) combines old adobe houses, Romanesque architecture and a slew of modern-art galleries. Then there’s the plentiful wilderness, from the Sangre de Cristos mountains of the north to the blinding-white dunes of the south. Scenic drives cut through these badlands, while there are opportunities for activities and ranch stays aplenty.

New South Wales, Australia

Why now? Drive between quiet national parks.

Sun, sand, surf, scuba, schooners – standard-issue fun awaits along the Pacific Highway, the justifiably well-trodden trail between Sydney and Brisbane . But a world of natural and cultural wonders awaits just a little inland, some well known – the cliffs, cascades, caves and trails of the Blue Mountains – others much less visited. Spring shoulder season brings warm sunshine, wildflowers and a furry of animal activity, but without the crowds and costs of high summer – even the trails around Katoomba are quieter. Take the road less traveled to discover canyons and caves, historic mines and glow-worm tunnels, Aboriginal rock art and dizzying rainforest biodiversity.

Where are the best places to travel to in October for culture?

Fez, Morocco

Why now? October is the area's weather sweet spot.

Stepping through blue-tiled Bab Bou Jeloud is as close as most of us will get to time travel: a journey back 1200 years to a city without motorized traffic, into the most mesmerizing and extensive medieval city in the Islamic world. Visit in October, between sweltering summer and chilly, damp winter, to explore (or, more likely, get hopelessly lost in) the tangled skein of 9400 alleys in Fes el-Bali. This oldest section of the walled Medina is romantic and relentless in equal measure. You can admire glorious Moorish zellij tilework and ornately carved wood and alabaster adorning medersas (Islamic colleges); feast on pastilla (pigeon pie), tagines and a traditional glass of mint tea; and bed down in an Arabian Nights –worthy palace, riad or dar (courtyard mansion). But you’ll also be deafened by the hubbub of the souks (bazaars) and hit by the stench of the colorful but pungent tanneries.

Editor's note: On September 8, 2023, a 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Morocco, centering around the Atlas Mountains and southwest of Marrakesh. Travel to other parts of the country, including Fez, is largely unaffected, but we encourage travelers to check bulletins and monitor reliable local news sources for the latest information.

Southwest England

Why now? Roam historic marvels and glorious countryside in serene autumn.

England ’s shapely left leg is crowded with grand mansions and stately homes, castles and abbeys, megalithic henges and barrows. In summer they’re jammed with tourists; many then close, at least partly, from the end of October. This month’s ideal, then, for a road trip immersing yourself in centuries of history: playing lord or lady of the manor at Montacute or Cotehele , communing with ancestors among Avebury’s standing stones , or jousting with King Arthur at Tintagel. Now, too, the hiking routes – not least England’s longest, the South West Coast Path – are wonderfully quiet, and cozy country pubs more enticing than ever.

Where are the best places to travel to in October for food and drink? 

Le Marche, Italy

Why now? Hunt truffles, wines and other tasty treats.

“It’s the next Tuscany!” declare the cognoscenti, vaunting their new favorite “hidden” corner of Italy with culinary and cultural cachet. Well, Le Marche , sandwiched between the Adriatic and the Apennines, has no pretensions to be the next anywhere. As yet largely uncrowded, its low-key historic gems, Verdicchio and Conero wines, fungi and other local flavors speak for themselves – and do so most persuasively in harvest season. Autumn brings pleasant temperatures for hopping between medieval hilltop towns and hiking in Monti Sibillini National Park, watching for chamois, wolves and bears. True, some aspects evoke a whiff of Tuscany: the walled historic centers of Urbino and Ascoli Piceno , packed with medieval and Renaissance architecture, and the vine-striped hillsides. But Le Marche has favors all its own, evident in beautiful villages such as Gradara and Offda, renowned for their wines, and Acqualagna and Apecchio, both hosting white-truffle fairs in autumn – toast your trip with fine Apecchio beers. 

Tohoku, Japan

Why now? Make a gastronomic pilgrimage in a season of harvests and fall finery.

Most visitors to Japan head west from Tokyo towards Kyoto and Fuji , or bypass northern Honshū to reach Hokkaidō . Too bad for them: the six prefectures comprising Tōhoku encompass steaming onsens (try Nyuto), gleaming castles ( Hirosaki ), golden-halled temples ( Chūson-ji in Hiraizumi), peaceful farming valleys and forest-clad mountains, now flaming red and gold. The clear days of harvest season are perfect for exploring the region’s culinary highlights: fabulous seafood and fish, of course – squid and mackerel are particular specialties – plus local takes on ramen, soba and udon noodles, apples and excellent sake. Fuel up for hikes among the cedars on Mt Haguro , through the virgin beech forests of mountainous Shirakami-Sanchi or along the 1000km-plus (621-mile) Michinoku Coastal Trail .

Where are the best places to travel to in October for adventure?

Why now? Hit the heights.

Don’t pack away the hiking boots just yet – thanks to their southerly latitude, the mountains of Montenegro remain open and awesome for ambling until November. And what mountains: the highest are within Unesco-listed Durmitor National Park , a cluster of dark, serrated summits (of which 48 soar to over 2000m/6065ft) scattered with pine forest, lush meadows and glittering glacial lakes, and home to all manner of wildlife, from birds to bears. There’s also good walking amid the peaks and primeval forests of Biogradska Gora National Park . Coastal high points such as Mts Orjen and Lovćen offer sweeping views of the Adriatic – mix hikes here with dips in the azure sea, which remains beautifully inviting throughout October, and is wonderfully crowd-free. A week’s walking could include an ascent of Rumija, on the south coast; hiking in the Kučka Krajina range near capital Podgorica ; admiring the autumn colors around Mt Bjelasica in Biogradska Gora; and varied trekking in Durmitor, with the chance to stand atop Bobotov Kuk (2523m/8277ft), the country’s highest peak.

Cusco Region, Peru

Why now? Traverse alternative Inca trails.

“The” Inca Trail winds for around 42km (26 miles) over breath-snatching passes and past ancient remains to end with the big reveal framed by the Sun Gate: Machu Picchu . But it’s far from the only Inca trail. Those ingenious ancient Peruvians constructed a vast network of highways – the Qhapaq Ñan, spidering some 30,000km (18,641 miles) throughout the Andes – much of which remains more or less intact today, beckoning hikers keen to explore past glories and meet modern Quechua people. Visit in October, after peak season but before the rains set in, to roam these historic paths in peace. The Salkantay Trek traverses thrilling Andean wilderness: snow-clad peaks, glaciers and mesmerizing lakes. The Lares Trek, north of the Sacred Valley , boasts fewer Incan sites but ample interaction with local communities. And Choquequirao rewards with another ridge-top citadel – a mini-Machu Picchu, with tiny crowds to match.

This article was first published July 2019 and updated August 2023

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The 11 best places to travel in October 2023

From ice hockey to Halloween dogs, bask in some serious adventure at one of the best places to travel in October

October is a fantastic time to travel. Why? Well, we’ll be here all day if we try and detail all the reasons, but take the 11 places listed below as a good indication of the magic on offer. Autumn is a gorgeous time of year no matter where you are, but there is something remarkable about these spots that needs to be seen to be believed.

From internationally famous events to forward-thinking sustainable travel via ice, earth and sky, the best places to travel in October are Hall of Fame destinations. Oh, and there are also loads of dogs in Halloween costumes . What more could anyone possibly want? Dust off the passport and get the bag packed; the time to travel is now.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the   best places to travel

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Best places to travel in October

1.  Valencia, Spain

Valencia might’ve been named World Design Capital back in 2022, but it’s still a darn dazzling place.  The aesthetically brilliant southeastern Spanish port city is home to fantastic art museums, contemporary galleries and dazzling architecture. Explore the stark white buildings at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, including the uncannily stormtrooper-helmet-esque Palau de les Arts opera house and wander the modernist El Cabanyal barrio, with its tiled facades. 

Discover the best  things to do in Valencia 

2.  Philippines

Adventure travel, including diving, has grown in popularity over recent years, and the Philippines’ 7,000 islands get top marks for underwater adventures. Head to Palawan’s Coron Bay for mind-blowing wreck diving, while Anilao is one of the world’s best spots for biodiversity, meaning you might just see something that’s not even been named yet. More experienced divers can also try blackwater diving here, where you’re tethered to a boat line in the pitch-black ocean at night, with a torch, for an altogether more space-like experience. Visit once the rainy season’s out of the way, in the second half of October, to make the most of its beautiful beaches. Food more your jam? As Filipino cuisine takes root in global cities like New York and London, maybe it’s time to go eat the good stuff at the source, from vibrant ube (purple yam) ice cream to Lechon (roast suckling pig).

Discover the best  things to do in the Philippines

3.  Israel

Israel is a super popular spot for tourism, as its historical sites and buzzing  Tel Aviv  remain a massive draw. October, when the mercury dips, is a better time for schlepping round the Roman ruins of the Masada National Park and exploring Nazareth, known as Jesus’s hometown and, more recently, for serving up great East-meets-West fusion grub in its restaurants. It should still be just about still be warm enough to show Tel Aviv’s beaches a good time, too—and don’t go without experiencing the coastal city’s let’s-never-go-to-bed attitude to nightlife.

Discover the best  things to do in Tel Aviv

4.  Bhutan

With more than 70 percent of its land covered by forest, this Buddhist kingdom is the world’s only carbon-negative country, absorbing far more of the stuff than it produces. Travel is tightly controlled to make sure tourism remains low-impact, so it isn’t cheap—though the $200-a-day fee to be there includes all your accommodation, food and a guide (which is worth it because there’s a mythical story behind pretty much everything you encounter here). Go to get lost in pristine nature, breathe in lungfuls of clean Himalayan air and feel extra smug knowing you’re eating right too.

5.  Bosnia and Herzegovina

Summers in Bosnia and Herzegovina are mighty hot, and the winters get pretty darn cold. You can do the maths from there, and October might be the best time to visit this remarkable country. The number of tourists drops dramatically, meaning more space to wander the enchanting old towns of Sarajevo, Mostar and the rest. Travnik’s charming collection of mosques sparkles a little brighter, while Banja Luka cements its spot as the country’s best night out. More and more people are waking up to the magic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, so make a point of visiting this October to see for yourself. 

6.  New Mexico

There is more to New Mexico than desert and a certain Netflix show. Every October,  Albuquerque  hosts its eye-popping International Balloon Fiesta, where you can spot hundreds of technicolour hot air balloons making their spectacular ascent. Maybe it is the seemingly endless skies and epic sunrises that make it a prime location, but it has become the world’s largest balloon festival and the most photographed event on Earth. Make time to visit  Santa Fe , in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, for a mix of Spanish colonial architecture and earth-coloured historic adobe neighbourhoods, plus a comprehensive Georgia O'Keeffe Museum dedicated to her artistic legacy and American modernism.

Discover the best  things to do in New Mexico 

7.  Timisoara, Romania

This under-the-radar city, with its large public squares, leafy gardens and restored pastel-painted art nouveau architecture, makes an attractive city break that’s a far cry from the tower blocks other Romanian cities are known for. Timisoara was Romania's ‘first free city’, home of the country’s 1989 revolution to overthrow the communist dictatorship (brush up on the history at the Museum of the 1989 Revolution). Its independent spark lives on in live music venues, from intimate jazz bars to the grand opera house.

8.  San Francisco

San Francisco has never been one to conform, even to weather norms: for warm, sunny SF days, you’re better off visiting in spring and fall rather than summer. Time your visit for October, so once you’re done with the classics— Golden Gate Bridge ,  Alcatraz  and the adorably blubbery sea lions at  Pier 39 —you can soak up the vibes at the  Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival . In true independent San Francisco spirit, the festival is entirely non-commercial (no ads or sponsorship banners), free to visit and BYOB. Held in the  Golden Gate Park , it’s become a beloved SF institution since it was first held in 2001 and has attracted acts including Emmylou Harris and Led Zeppelin’s Robert Plant.

Discover the best  things to do in San Francisco

9.  Namibia

Namibia has been growing in popularity as a destination since Prince Harry and Meghan Markle spent their honeymoon there last year, and the boom in bookings has sparked a flurry of new lodge openings. Some of the best are making the most of the country’s stargazing opportunities in and around Africa’s only International Dark Sky Reserve (such as the sleek & Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, with a resident astronomer, and Kwessi Dunes, with open-roofed stargazing rooms in each of its chalets). It’s possible to camp in the reserve too, but book in advance as the limited spaces tend to fill up fast.

10.  Toronto

Toronto is one of the most exciting cities on the planet, with thrilling nightlife nestled next to gourmet restaurants and some of the finest live music venues on the continent. What makes October the perfect time to visit? Hockey, that’s what. Sure, Maple Leafs fans have suffered more than enough misery over the last half decade-plus, but the regular season isn’t a problem these days. The 2022 Toronto Maple Leafs season gets underway with an away game against Montreal Canadiens on October 12, with the home opener coming the next night against Washington Capitals. Don’t expect to get tickets, but watching a game in a Toronto bar is a bucket list experience.

11.  NYC

It’s pretty much always a good time to visit NYC—at  Christmas , you get the snow and ubiquitous festive decorations. In spring, you get the  Central Park  cherry blossom. In summer, you get the long evenings in the feelgood heat, and then fall brings a burnt amber hue to everything. This year, save it for  Halloween  when the annual  Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade  kicks off in Manhattan, shedding NYC’s pooches in a ghoulish new light as pups and their owners come dressed in ever-more outlandish costumes.

Discover the best  things to do in New York

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Where to travel in the world in October

​October marks the start of autumn, with a bountiful crop of destinations to whet the appetite, for food, culture and wildlife travel. Here are five of our favourites for this month.

October heralds the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness: the perfect time for trips that embrace the natural world, its changing hues and abundant produce. From mushrooms to apples, pumpkins to olives, tours across the UK and Europe are ripe with foodie opportunities, whether encountered through a harvest or on a foraging course. This is also a great time to be bagging the last beach break of the season while easy access destinations in Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East are still basking in sunshine and coastal resorts and seasonal ferries have yet to shut up shop. But if you're weary of sun and sand, October also comes with some tempting urban escapes. From Montreal to Manhattan, Boston to Baltimore, cities along North America's east coast are at their most atmospheric this month, rich with fiery autumn colours and Halloween festivities.

If there’s ever a season for travel to Japan, autumn is arguably prime time. Rivalling spring's cherry blossom season, October is when parks, gardens and mountains across the central islands and Alps are ablaze with colourful trees. This is a time for momijigari ('red leaf hunting') tours, with train rides in and around Kyoto a popular way to take in rural landscapes.

Sustainable travel tip: Walk Japan specialises in on-foot exploration across some of Japan's most beautiful rural and cultural destinations. Its low-impact tours, guided and self-guided, go off-the-beaten-track, often from village to village, staying in local guesthouses. These include tours that visit its community project in Kunisaki Peninsula   in Kyushu.

( What's new in Japan, from theme parks to museums .)

2. New Forest, UK

October is a fun month for fungi foraging, and it's also a great time to harvest walnuts, chestnuts, hazelnuts and damsons. The New Forest is a top autumn break spot; the UK's smallest national park packs in a hugely diverse range of landscapes, from marshy coast and heathland to its an ancient woodland populated by free-roaming ponies. For fungi alone, it's one of the most important sites in Britain, with over 2,700 different species calling the forest home. In autumn, the woodland is also home to hundreds of rootling pigs who are allowed free-range to clear the ground of acorns, beech mast and chestnuts that are harmful to livestock in a practice that dates back to the forest's founder, William the Conqueror.

Sustainable travel tip: Foraging is best done under expert guidance, to ensure nature's larder is raided sustainably and safely. The New Forest National Park has a 'no pick' policy for mushrooms in Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Permission is given for walks and educational tours with licenced fungi foray groups. Wild Food UK offers a wide range of foraging courses, from days out, to camping and wild food weekends and trips away to hotels with gourmet chefs. While Go Foraging offers guided walks in Hampshire, the West Country and Wales.

3. Normandy, France

It's peak apple harvest season, so why not make a celebration of it with a tour of Normandy's venerable cider houses , calvados cellars and Pommeau purveyors (calvados-fortified cider). Around 800 varieties of apple grow in this region of Northern France, where the fruit-based booze has been made since the 12th century. An easy itinerary follows the dedicated 25-mile-long   Cider Route , where you can visit 16 producers of apple libations set against a backdrop of Norman cathedrals, ancient villages with half-timbered houses and some sobering Second World War coastal sites. And as this is France's dairy-producing heartland, you can expect lots of indulgently creamy dishes to fortify you en route, with a special shout out to local legends: camembert, Pont l’Eveque, Neufchatel and Livro. Sustainable travel tip: Why not pop your bike on the ferry, and explore Normandy under pedal power ? Normandy has four ports served by ferries from the UK with most operators including a bike in your luggage allowance. Or book with a tour company offering specialist cider route bike trips, such as Utracks or Cycling for Softies . Though you can reach Normandy by Eurostar via Gare St Lazare, it's got trickier to carry bikes across the Channel by train since the pandemic.

( How to spend a weekend in rural Normandy .)

4. Churchill, Canada

Between late September and November, the shores of Hudson Bay are populated with polar bears, padding about the beaches waiting for the winter sea ice to form. And once it does, away they go, in search of the ringed seals and their pups. But until then, the 'polar bear capital of the world' sees these magnificent beasts amass in the hundreds, with the town of Churchill the most accessible place for close-proximity viewing. Wilderness trips to the Torngat Mountains on Canada’s remote Labrador Peninsula or aboard an expedition ship into the waters of the Northwest Passage offer adventure tourists the chance of sightings, but a flight from the UK via Winnipeg to Churchill puts travellers in place where sightings all but guaranteed right from the tundra town. Having long coexisted with the world’s largest land carnivore, Churchill offers a unique frontier Canada experience, with lots of choice for tours to track bears off-road in the wild.

Sustainable travel tip: Churchill Wild offers on-foot, low-impact tours from its three ecologically sensitive lodges along the shores of Hudson Bay. Frontiers North Adventures , a long-established, family-owned company specialises in sustainably minded tourism in Churchill and across Canada's north.

5. New York, USA

Combine a city break during Halloween season with a tour upstate to explore hill country when it's vibrant with fall foliage and spooky festivals. Along with the Greenwich Village Halloween Parade which sees some 60,000 costumed revellers walk, dance and sing along Sixth Avenue from Canal Street to West 15th Street, Manhattan hosts a packed calendar of events in October including Open House New York , when sites across the city rarely open to the public throw open their doors, from rooftop gardens to design studios and historic houses. Meanwhile upstate, don't miss The   Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze , where 7,000 artfully carved pumpkins light up the riverside near Van Cortlandt Manor in the Hudson Valley.

Sustainable travel tip:   Skip the road trip in favour of a two-wheel tour. Making its debut last year, the Empire State Trail offers 750 miles of greenways, repurposed railway lines and bike paths that can, if you have the legs for it, take you from Manhattan to the Canadian border. We suggest the Hudson Valley Greenway section taking riders through the historic towns and waterfront villages along Hudson River, where general stores are replete with pumpkins and the tree-carpeted Catskill Mountains burn fiery orange to the north.

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Adventures of Alice

31 Places to Visit in October: The Best October Getaways

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Are you wondering where to travel in October? Well, it’s an absolutely wonderful month to explore – especially in Europe and the US . It’s shoulder season in a lot of countries so prices are lower, and the weather is quite often still pleasantly mild. There are so many amazing places to visit in October.

There’s also Halloween , beer festivals, and beautiful fall foliage that makes everything from big forests to tiny English villages come alive with reds and oranges. Can you tell that autumn is my favourite time of year?

As well as being beautiful, it’s also the ideal time to travel. It’s shoulder season across most of the world, so airline prices are down. Hotel prices are also down, and the summer crowds have left! This is the main reason I love October getaways as opposed to the peak summer months. Most of my favourite trips (especially around Europe and the UK ) have been during this month.

31 Best Places to Visit in October

From visiting some of the most gorgeous beaches to a safari, chasing the Northern Lights or a European city break . if you’re wondering where to travel in October, here are the 31 best October travel destinations in the world. 

1. Budapest, Hungary

Average Temperature: 16 ° C – 8 ° C

A beautiful European city, Budapest oozes charm and nostalgia. It’s also grown significantly in travel popularity in recent years and it’s easy to see why! With its beautiful Parliament Building to the surprising cheapness of everything, it’s no wonder travellers are packing their bags and heading off to Hungary!

As well as the Parliament Building, make sure to visit the Fisherman’s Bastian, and Mattias Church, and take a dip in Budapest’s famous thermal baths. There’s easily enough to do in Budapest to fill a weekend. However, there are also plenty of trips you could take outside the city or to neighbouring countries if you want to stay a little longer.

2. Dalaman, Turkey

Average Temperature : 25 ° C – 14 ° C

An area known for its stunning coastline, natural beauty, and ancient ruins, the Dalaman region of Turkey is one of the best places to visit in October. It’s so much less crowded, but you can still enjoy great weather. We visited Antalya in October and the weather was perfect for exploring and sightseeing.

Some of the top attractions in Dalaman include the Dalyan Delta, where you can take a boat tour through the stunning wetlands and see the famous Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs. There’s also lots of history scattered around the Lycian way – visit the town of Fethiye to see more rock tombs. For beach lovers, the stunning beaches of Ölüdeniz and İztuzu are well worth a visit.

3. Paris, France

Average Temperature : 17 ° C – 10 ° C

Paris is one of those places where you can travel almost all year round. From fireworks from the Eiffel Tower to lazing in the Jardin des Plantes under the heat of the summer sun, you can’t go wrong with the French capital . However, there’s a reason this is one of the best places to travel in October.

Warm weather, fewer tourists (meaning fewer queues), and the French autumn festival season is just hotting up. You could watch spectacular fountain shows at Versailles, see a new ballet or Opera performance or see the gardens in full bloom at Giverny.

Plus, don’t forget a trip to the Louvre . Also, see the spectacular views from the top of the Eiffel Tower and go on a dinner cruise along the River Seine. You could even take a trip to Disneyland and see their delightful Halloween spectacle.

4. Greek Islands, Greece

Average Temperature: 25 ° C – 15 ° C

An idyllic, island-lovers paradise, Greece is a great place to visit from spring through to Autumn. Athens is also a great place to travel in Autumn as the weather makes exploring the gorgeous Acropolis much more bearable.

However, in October, your choice of travel destinations in Greece is endless. Santorini’s whitewashed buildings and peaceful beaches always make for a popular choice. The history of Rhodes is also well worth a visit. Or you might prefer to explore somewhere a little more romantic and a little less touristy , like Kos or Milos.

Visit Mykonos for the vibrant nightlife and even more gorgeous beaches. Plus, it’s one of the best places to go in October because you’ll find much fewer crowds and much cheaper prices! Tempted? I don’t blame you.

5. Mexico City, Mexico

Average Temperature : 24°C – 10°C

One of the best times of year to visit Mexico City is in October. In late autumn, Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city that doesn’t have the heat of peak summer. The weather is generally warm (but not too hot) and less busy than the peak times of December to April . Plus, if you visit towards the end of October, you may even have a chance to see the Day of the Dead festivities .

This festival is one of the biggest draws of visiting Mexico City in autumn. The Day of the Dead festival, or Día de los Muertos, takes place on November 1st and 2nd. The city’s streets and plazas are filled with colourful decorations, traditional altars, and people dressed in elaborate costumes, as locals honour their loved ones who have passed away. It’s a fascinating experience and a worthy addition to your bucket list.

Aside from this, visit the Palacio de Bellas Artes, a stunning building that hosts exhibitions and performances; the historic centre of the city, where you can see landmarks like the Zócalo, the Cathedral, and the National Palace; and the many museums and galleries that showcase Mexico’s rich cultural heritage. I recommend the Museum of Anthropology because it’s amazing!

6. Reykjavik, Iceland 

Average Temperature : 7°C – 2°C

If you want a more wintery destination and love dramatic scenery, potentially snowy landscapes and glaciers, Iceland is the place for you . The country is packed full of natural wonders including the infamous Blue Lagoon, the breathtaking Northern Lights and sometimes active volcanoes .

Pair this with whale watching, magnificent churches, funky nightlife and some slightly questionable food (fermented shark, anyone?) and you’re without a doubt in for the trip of a lifetime!

7. Algarve, Portugal

Average Temperature : 24°C – 15°C

The gorgeous south of Portugal has beautiful beaches framed with limestone cliffs, a warm climate all year round ( even in February, the coldest month in Europe ), and charming towns.

One of the biggest reasons that the Algarve is one of my favourite places to go in October is that it is much less crowded than during the peak summer season. This place gets packed in summer! The autumn means that you can enjoy the region’s stunning beaches and natural beauty with far fewer tourists.

Explore the historic town of Lagos, with its charming cobblestone streets, colourful buildings, and stunning coastline. Visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a wetland area with a variety of bird species and walking trails, and the town of Portimao , which is known for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous harbourfront.

Plus, while you’re in the Algarve, don’t forget to sample their cuisine – fresh seafood, grilled meats, Portuguese wine, and pastel de nata!

8. Yosemite National Park, USA

Average Temperature : 22°C – 5°C

Visiting Yosemite National Park in October can be a wonderful choice for travellers looking to enjoy the stunning fall foliage, mild weather, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.

The park’s trees turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. The mild weather makes it a great time for hiking and exploring the park’s many trails and landmarks without getting too hot and bothered. And without fighting loads of other people for a good photo spot. You might even have iconic landmarks like the Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls all to yourself!

The weather in Yosemite in autumn can be variable, with temperatures ranging from around 5°C (40°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day, and dropping down to below freezing at night. It is important to pack warm layers and appropriate gear for hiking in changing weather conditions. Nonetheless, with its beautiful scenery, and variety of outdoor activities, Yosemite is one of the best places to visit in October.

9. Munich, Germany

Average Temperature : 14°C – 5°C

Who can resist endless beer and bratwurst ? If that sounds like you, then you’ll love Munich! Easily one of the best places to visit in October, the German city is known for its famous Oktoberfest. The huge folk festival typically lasts between 16-18 days and usually attracts around 6 million people each year.

As well as in Munich, there are similar events on a smaller scale all across the country . So it’s a great time for a little bit of a German road trip too. Prepare for plenty of eating, drinking, partying, dizzying fairground rides, colourful parades and traditional folk dress-up. Easily one of the best places to travel in October.

10. Paphos, Cyprus 

Average Temperature : 26°C – 16°C

One of the places in Europe that’s still pleasantly warm when autumn hits, Paphos is one of the best places to travel in October. Full of stunning beaches and plenty of fascinating ancient Greek history, a trip to Cyprus will stick in your memory.

There’s plenty of natural beauty including springs and deep gorges to explore. Avakus Gorge is one of my favourite hikes in Europe . So, whether you’re a fan of history, or adventure or would just like to relax by the waves sipping cocktails, Cyprus will give you a bit of everything.

11. The Lake District, England

Average Temperature : 12°C – 5°C

Although England can be known for its rather dreary weather, even with the downpours, the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the UK . In October, it comes alive with an abundance of wildlife.

The gorgeous rainbow of autumn colours makes it even more special. Just 3 hours from London by train, the Lake District will make for an incredibly peaceful weekend . Go walking through the wilderness and bracken fens to getting on the water at Lake Windemere.

Or hike to the top of Scarfell Pike , England’s tallest mountain peak. Either way, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained. Plus, with the kind of beauty, you’ll see there, you certainly won’t be disappointed.

12. San Fransisco, USA

Average Temperature : 21°C – 13°C

I love San Fransico and the hilly, foggy, city is easily one of the best places to visit in October. The weather here is typically mild (up to 20°C (68°F)) which makes it a great time to explore the city’s many neighbourhoods, landmarks, and attractions. Additionally, the fall foliage in parks like Golden Gate Park and the Presidio can be stunning during this time of year.

While in San Fransisco you absolutely have to visit the Golden Gate Bridge. Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Painted Ladies are also well worth a visit. And, if you have time, explore the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, such as Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and the Mission District, each with its own unique character and attractions.

13. Split, Croatia

Average Temperature : 20°C – 14°C

Located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, Split is one of the best places to visit in October. The gorgeous old town was one of my favourite places in Croatia .

The city’s other top landmarks, like the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are ideal in October since the weather is mild enough to be able to enjoy them but hot enough to wear a T-shirt! The decrease in crowds is also pretty nice.

In addition to the Diocletian’s Palace, visitors can also explore other cultural attractions such as the Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments, the Gallery of Fine Arts, and the Ivan Meštrović Gallery. The city also has a vibrant culinary scene, with many restaurants and cafes offering plenty of delicious dishes.

14. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Average Temperature : 31°C – 25°C

For the perfect dose of wildlife, amazing temples, and delicious food,  Cambodia  is one of the top October travel destinations. It’s just emerging from the rainy season, so expect a few scattered showers. But also expect average temperatures hovering just under 30°C and lots of colours in the countryside.

As well as the unmissable Angkor temples, pay a visit to one of the wildlife centres and you may even be in with a chance of seeing sun bears, leopard cats, and wild elephants. Just make sure your trip supports sustainable tourism and whatever you do, don’t ride the elephants!

Average Temperature : 25°C – 18°C

Malta is a great October getaway. The warm weather makes it a great time to explore the Dingli Cliffs, the Blue Lagoon, and the Blue Grotto. The island is rich in culture and you can explore ancient Megalithic Temples, wander the maze of cobbled streets in the old town, and explore the museums.

The capital, Valletta, is a vibrant city with plenty of rich history and architecture. Be sure to visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the National Museum of Archaeology. I recommend taking a trip to Gozo too – you won’t regret it!

Autumn falls between the peak summer season and the winter season in Malta. And, although you can visit the island all year round and still experience warm weather, it’s one of the best places to visit in October because you’ll still get the best weather. Plus, fewer crowds make exploring the island more pleasant and hotel rates and other costs are usually lower too.

16. Luxor, Egypt

Average Temperature : 35°C – 19°C

If you love history, Luxor is easily one of the best places to visit in October. This city in southern Egypt can get extremely hot in the summer. When we visited it was about 40 degrees and almost unbearably hot. The autumn months will make seeing this historic city much easier.

Some of the best places to visit are the Valley of the Kings, the Karnak Temple Complex, and the Luxor Temple. You can also take a hot air balloon ride over Luxor for a unique and memorable perspective of the city and its surrounding desert landscape.

If you enjoy getting out on the water, I also recommend a cruise along the River Nile River. Many tour providers offer this and it gives you a chance to take in the beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere. After you’ve spent some time on the river, head into the vibrant city to barter over local crafts, spices and textiles with the locals.

17. Florence, Italy

Average Temperature : 21°C – 11°C

Florence, the capital of Tuscany in Italy, is one of the best places to travel in October. This gorgeous city is full of stunning architecture and within easy day-trip distance of other popular Italian destinations like Pisa , and Cinque Terra .

Florence is fascinating . You could spend hours exploring the main Piazza alone with its stunning Cathedral and Baptistery. Also, visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery for a deeper dive into the culture.

The Italian gem is also known for its beautiful fall scenery, with the changing leaves adding a vibrant splash of colour to the city’s already picturesque streets and piazzas.

18. Izmir, Turkey

Izmir is a wonderful Turkish city, rich in cultural attractions. The Archaeological Museum is great, and the Izmir Clock Tower is really scenic. I also highly recommend visiting the nearby Ephesus , one of the ancient wonders of the world, and our reason for visiting Izmir in the first place.

It’s absolutely magnificent, and if you’re wondering where to go in October, you can’t go wrong with Izmir. It will be so much more bearable (we visited in June so trust me on this one!).

In the autumn, the weather in Izmir is generally warm but not overly hot like in the summertime. With an average temperature of around 25°C, it’s a great time to explore the area. Konak Square, the Asansor and Izmir Agora are all fascinating.

19. Bruges, Belgium

Average Temperature : 15°C – 9°C

Bruges is an absolutely wonderful choice during the autumn months. It’s the perfect time to explore this enchanting city with its cobbled streets, winding canals, and historic charm.

Bruges is one of the best places to visit in October as the autumn foliage transforms the city into a haven of red and gold. The pleasant, crisp weather makes it ideal for strolling through the quaint streets, eating every Belgian chocolate you can find, and enjoying the local beer.

Plus, you’ll find that the crowds have thinned out compared to the busy summer months. With fewer crowds and lower hotel prices, Bruges becomes an ideal destination for an October getaway. It’s also easy to explore other parts of Belgium from Bruges – you can get a train directly to Brussels and Ghent , making this a great month for exploring the country.

20. Vienna, Austria

Vienna , in autumn, takes on a special kind of elegance. The city’s grand architecture, historic coffeehouses, and cultural treasures blend harmoniously with the changing foliage. The air is crisp, and the city is transitioning into the shoulder season, so you’ll find a quieter and more authentic experience.

You can enjoy a warm apple strudel in a classic Viennese café while admiring the golden leaves in the city’s parks. What’s more, Vienna’s cultural scene is in full swing, with music festivals and art exhibitions galore. Vienna in October is a delightful blend of cultural richness and autumnal beauty.

21. Devon and Somerset, England

Average Temperature : 15°C – 8°C

To tell the truth, I’m an English girl through and through and I love exploring my own country. Devon and Somerset are two of my favourite areas (as well as Dorset , Cambridge , and London ) but this time of year, these English gems are awash with autumnal beauty.

Imagine wandering through quaint villages, their thatched roofs adorned with russet leaves, and exploring the rugged, windswept coastlines with dramatic cliffs and hidden coves. The countryside comes alive with the scent of crisp, fallen leaves and the promise of cosy pubs serving hearty stews and roast dinners.

It’s the ideal time to enjoy West Country cider and traditional cream teas while taking leisurely walks through exploring historic sites like Bath or the wild beauty of Dartmoor National Park . You’ll also find much fewer tourists around, so you’ll likely have many of these beautiful places to yourself.

22. Rome, Italy

Average Temperature : 22°C – 12°C

Rome without the mad tourist crowds? I must be joking, right? But nope, if you want a chance to visit the Colosseum without queuing for an hour, Rome is one of the best places to visit in October.

Rome in October is a great fusion of ancient history and the beauty of autumn. It’s the ideal time to visit iconic landmarks, such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and the Vatican, and the weather is just right – not too hot, not too cold.

You’ll have the chance to explore the city’s charming neighbourhoods and bustling piazzas, all while enjoying the rustling of leaves under your feet. And don’t get me started on the food – indulging in bowls of authentic pasta and gelato is an absolute must!

23. The Canary Islands, Spain

Average Temperature : 26°C – 20°C

The Canary Islands in October are an idyllic destination for those in search of some late-year sun. With pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer months, you’ll find these Spanish gems at their most inviting. And, the warm but not scorching weather is just perfect.

The volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines take on a new, beauty in the autumn. Whether you’re hiking through the rugged terrain of Tenerife’s Mount Teide or unwinding on the pristine sands of Gran Canaria , the islands offer a diverse range of activities.

Plus, with the summer crowds gone, you’ll find a more tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for exploring local markets and savouring authentic Canary Island cuisine. October in the Canaries is like an extended summer with just a touch of serenity.

24. Edinburgh, Scotland

Average Temperature : 13°C – 6°C

If you feel like walking through a Harry Potter film set in the autumn, then I highly recommend a trip to Edinburgh . Now, of course, I can’t promise you that it won’t rain. But I can promise that the city’s iconic architecture, from the medieval Old Town to the elegant Georgian buildings of the New Town, looks even more majestic against the golden autumn leaves.

The crisp air carries the promise of cosy evenings by the fireplace in traditional Scottish pubs, sipping on whisky and eating hearty stews. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have a chance to explore the city’s nooks and crannies, visit the haunted underground vaults, and enjoy the rich culinary scene, from haggis to buttery shortbread, just before it gets busy again in winter !

25. Petra, Jordan

Average Temperature : 29°C – 13°C

For undeniably beautiful wonders that you won’t see anywhere else on the planet, head over to the Middle Eastern gem that is Jordan. Despite being surrounded by conflict, Jordan remains a peaceful country.

The locals and some of the friendliest and most generous in the Middle East. Most definitely one of those destinations that will take you by surprise. Be sure to visit the incredible sight of Petra, where the sunbeams will give the walls a light pink glow.

Travel to the Roman city of Jerash, float in the Dead Sea and explore some of the greatest desert landscapes in the world.  Plus, this is another of the best places to travel in October where you can stay in a traditional Bedouin camp underneath the stars.

26. Chobe, Botswana

Average Temperature : 36°C – 21°C

Possibly one of the world’s greatest safari destinations, Botswana will both delight and captivate you. Although it’s certainly much hotter in October (the south is slightly cooler than the north), that gives you a higher chance of seeing wildlife at watering holes.

The Chobe River is a particularly popular place, as you’ll have a chance to see herds of wild elephants. Then there’s the Okavango Delta, a beautiful wetland wilderness teeming with many different species. Plus, prices also drop at the end of the month, making it one of the best places to visit in October.

27. Transylvania, Romania

Average Temperature : 18°C – 6°C 

If you’re interested in the more underrated (and much less crowded) travel destinations in Europe, Romania should definitely be on your list. The home of Bram Stoker’s Dracula inspirations, the country boasts one of the best Halloween celebrations in the world. You can actually spend a night partying inside Dracula’s Castle!

However, if you’re not tempted by the vampire side of Romanic, there are still plenty of towering Gothic churches and medieval towns to explore. Romania’s autumn colours can rival that of New England, so you’ll be greeted with a rush of fiery red and gold making it one of the best places to visit in October. Make sure to pack for a cooler escape as it can certainly be chilly at this time of year.

28. Marrakesh, Morocco 

Average Temperature : 28°C – 15°C

The cultural capital of Africa is much more bearable once the scorching heat of summer has subsided. Don’t get me wrong, you’ll still get warm temperatures, but you’ll also be able to leave your air-conditioned hotel room without feeling like you’re going to melt.

Morocco is known for its colourful markets, exotic spices and distinct pottery and ceramics. You’ll definitely be able to find some wonderful souvenirs to bring home.

But as well as material things, you’ll also find the endless Sahara Desert, towering sand dunes, the Atlas Mountains, wild beaches and authentic Bedouin camps beneath the stars. It’s easy to fall in love with Morocco, and it’s one of the best cities to visit in October.

29. New England, USA

Average Temperature : 20°C – 11°C

A favourite travel destination for the classic beauty of autumn foliage and multi-coloured leaves, New England is one of the best places to visit in October. The USA is a great place to travel in the fall. But nowhere puts on an autumn spectacle quite like New England.

From Maine to Rhode Island, the state comes alive with amber and gold. Simply taking long, relaxing walks through the crunchy foliage might be exactly what you need to prepare yourself for the busy festive season ahead!  Alternatively, hire a car and plan a fun road trip through the state, stopping at as many autumn festivals as you can find along the way.

30. Hanoi, Vietnam

Average Temperature : 29°C – 22°C

You can’t beat a trip to South-East Asia ! With mouth-wateringly delicious food, super cheap prices and exceptional coffees, Vietnam is definitely one of the best places to travel to in October. There’s also plenty to keep you entertained from long, white beaches to fascinating historical monuments and Buddhist temples.

Plus, as the country was previously French territory, there are also some really beautiful colonial villages to explore. So, whether you fancy the hectic, frenzied lifestyle of Ho Chi Minh or the chilled beach vibes of Hoi An, Vietnam is a great choice for autumn travel.

31. Mauritius 

For lazy beach days, hot sun, tropical island vibes , and dreamy ocean cabins, Mauritius sums up a lot of people’s holiday goals. If you’re wondering where to travel in October, you can’t go wrong with the Indian Ocean.

They’re just coming out of their winter meaning their near-perfect beaches and forest greenery are at their lushest. But Mauritius is not all lying around on beaches, however.

For the more active types, there’s also loads of natural beauty to explore as well as water sports, snorkelling and scuba diving. The Black River Gorges National Park is an absolute must-see.

Famed for its stunning waterfalls, there’s a tonne of wildlife to spot including wild boar, monkeys and plenty of colourful wild birds. You could also hike to the top of Le Morne Brabant, visit Tamarind Falls, or go on a boat trip to Ile aux Cerfs, one of the many beautiful islands surrounding Mauritius.

My favourite tools for finding cheap travel

• SKYSCANNER – For amazing flight deals.
• BOOKING.COM – For affordable hotels and accommodation.
• SAFETY WING – For affordable, reliable travel insurance.
• DISCOVER CARS – For cheap car hire around the world.
• OMIO – For trains, coaches, and transfers.
• GET YOUR GUIDE – For attractions and tours.
• AIRALO – For a global eSim that keeps you connected.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a small commission if you make a purchase. But, I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.

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Vacation Inspiration : The Best Places to Visit in October

This is one of the last months left of the year to take advantage of the great outdoors.

The fall season is fast approaching and with that comes the anticipated chill. While October still graces us with pleasant days and mild, brisk weather, it's also one of the last months of the year we have left to take advantage of the outdoors. That means now is the time to visit that national park (where summer crowds will have thinned out), or to take that trip through wine country (for harvest season). And, of course, the biggest appeal of travel in October: the foliage! From the stunning buttes of Monument Valley to the ancient wonders of Athens, here are our top ten destinations for a perfect alfresco getaway.

Tuscany, Italy

Monument Valley, Arizona

Everyone is already familiar with Monument Valley—it has made several cameos in films, from John Ford's Westerns to Forrest Gump —and it was probably your desktop screensaver at one point. But there is really no way to describe the magnitude of this Navajo Nation Tribal Park when seen in real life. It may be a journey to get there—five hours by car from Phoenix, six and a half from either Las Vegas or Salt Lake City—but it is located within the Grand Circle, home of the highest concentration of national parks (Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Arches, Canyonlands, Antelope Canyon, Lake Powell). The point is, don't skip it on your southwestern road trip—tack it on to a Moab visit (see below) or add it to your Grand Canyon itinerary. The Navajo-owned View Hotel is right inside the park, and every room has a balcony with panoramic views of those soaring buttes. Make sure to wake up early to watch the sun rise over the valley—an unforgettable sight—and stay up late enough to stargaze from your terrace—also unreal. Opt for a Starview room, which is farthest from the lobby, for maximum stargazing potential.

Read Reviews The View Hotel

The cinematic landscapes of this southeastern Utah town have made it a Hollywood favorite. You'll recognize scenes from HBO's Westworld at Dead Horse Point State Park, which is also where the ending of Thelma & Louise takes place, as well as the opening sequence of Mission: Impossible II . The real life events of 127 Hours happened inside Canyonlands National Park, while Arches National Park is seen in 1989's Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade . But Moab is hardly all style and no substance. Its abundance of national and state parks, diverse topographies, and incredible vistas provide a wealth of things to do and see. Get to Arches' Delicate Arch in the afternoon to watch as the sunset turns it fiery red; elsewhere in the park, you'll come across ancient petroglyphs left by the Ute tribe, who have lived in the area since the year 1,000. Take your pick of hundreds of miles of hiking trails at Canyonlands. Whitewater raft and kayak down the Colorado River. See dinosaur tracks at Bull Canyon Overlook and Copper Ridge. Go mountain biking, do an ATV tour, the options are endless. Make home base the Sorrel River Ranch , a 160-acre resort that hugs the Colorado River and affords panoramic views of Moab's sandstone buttes and mesas, and where the hot tub and spa will be a blissful treat after a long day of adventure.

Read Reviews Sorrel River Ranch

Sea Island, Georgia

The private resort , located right in between Jacksonville and Savannah, is one of the prettiest and most polished of Georgia's barrier islands. It's only open to residents of the gated community or guests of its three hotels, and even though Sea Island is just five miles long, there is plenty to do. The grande dame hotel is undoubtedly the Cloister, a 1920s Mediterranean-style gem where President George H.W. Bush and his wife Barbara spent their honeymoon and where their son, President George W. Bush, hosted the G8 summit in 2008. Here you'll find a 65,000-square-foot spa, a stellar restaurant, three pools, and a private beach. Those who prefer golf over swimming should book a room at the Lodge, which has three golf courses and a state-of-the-art golf performance center frequented by PGA pros. In between there are endless activities to fill your days, including falconry, boating, horseback riding, and clay shooting.

Read Reviews The Cloister at Sea Island

Read Reviews The Lodge at Sea Island

More: The Complete Guide to Sea Island, Georgia

North Adams, Massachusetts

While the Berkshires offer plenty to see, do, and experience in the summer, the region also shines just as brightly in the fall. October brings peak “leaf peeping” season and the best way to take in the foliage is by renting a car for a 63-mile drive along the Mohawk Trail that culminates in North Adams. So is hiking to the summit of Mount Greylock, which, at 3,489 feet, is Massachusetts's highest point. Though it lays claim to the title of “smallest city in the state,” North Adams has plenty to offer. For starters, there’s the largest contemporary art museum in the country—the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (better known as MASS MoCA)—and a plethora of bookshops, cafes, and galleries. Book a room at The Porches Inn , a B&B that's a stone’s throw from the museum. Or for a luxurious throwback, stay farther south at the Blantyre in Lenox, a grand Tudor-style mansion-turned-hotel that has been around since 1902.

Read Reviews Porches Inn

Read Reviews Blantyre

Athens, Greece

The energy of Athens in the summer is undeniable, but so is the fact that it is very hot during that time of year. Which is why October makes for an ideal month to visit the Greek capital. With temperatures in the 70s, the weather is just sublime and sunny, and there will be far fewer crowds to contend with at the legendary 2,470-year-old Acropolis (which you can visit during the day, whereas in the summer heat you would have to go super early or at dusk). Stay in the center of all the action at the stately and majestic Hotel Grande Bretagne , which has one of the best rooftop views of the Parthenon. It's also walking distance to the city's top attractions, from the restaurants and bars (Papadakis, Seychelles, the Clumsies, all not to be missed) to the shopping (upscale Kolonaki, the Monastiraki flea market) to the museums (Benaki and the National Gallery).

Read Reviews Hotel Grande Bretagne

Napa Valley, California

October is a prime time to visit the country's most famous wine region—it's harvest season, the temperature, in the mid-70s, is much more pleasant, and the leaves and vines have turned beautifully golden. The wineries (some of the highlights: Silver Oak , Opus One , Ovid , and Robert Mondavi , which recently launched a custom tasting experience featuring reserve wines from its highly prized To Kalon vineyard) are obviously a hit but interestingly, vineyards make up only about 9% of Napa Valley. Much of the rest is protected by the Land Trust, providing plenty of outdoor recreation such as hiking and mountain biking. The Francis House in Calistoga is one of the area's most unique stays. Originally a landmark 19th-century French Second Empire-style mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it has been meticulously restored and transformed into a five-key luxury inn. Or, book one of the 11 rooms at the Milliken Creek Inn , in Napa, which just underwent a complete redesign and has a prime perch on the banks of the Napa River.

Read Reviews The Francis House

Read Reviews Milliken Creek Inn

More: T&C Travel Guide: Napa Valley and Sonoma County

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. (it recorded 12.9 million visitors in 2019). In the shadow of its mountains, forests, hiking trails, and waterfalls is Blackberry Farm , the much beloved Relais & Châteaux resort in Walland, Tennessee, that has amassed a cult following for its focus on Southern hospitality, artisanal back-to-the-roots programming, and gastronomic brilliance. In 2019, proprietor Mary Celeste Beall opened a sister property, Blackberry Mountain , located 20 minutes away on 5,200 acres (Blackberry Farm has 4,200) and with more of a focus on outdoor activities and adventure. Prefer to glamp? Head to Under Canvas , a brand known for luxe campgrounds near national parks. This one is just minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains park entrance and has amenities like daily housekeeping, a fire pit for s'mores, and organic bath products.

Read Reviews Blackberry Farm

Read Reviews Blackberry Mountain

Read Reviews Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains

More: Introducing Blackberry Mountain, the Idyllic New Resort from Blackberry Farm

Asheville, North Carolina

At the height of the Gilded Age, while members of the Vanderbilt dynasty were building spectacular residences in Newport , Manhattan, and upstate New York, George Washington Vanderbilt II, a grandson of Commodore Cornelius, instead decided to build his country home in North Carolina after falling in love with Asheville's scenery on visits there with his mother. The result, of course, is the Biltmore , an opulent French Renaissance-style chateau with 250 rooms, 4 acres of floor space, and 125,000 acres of land (today, the estate occupies a modest 8,000). As it is still owned by George's descendants, Biltmore is the largest private residence in America. The house and grounds are open for tours and exhibits, and can be rented out for weddings. There are also three hotels on the estate for overnight stays. Its most famous attraction aside, Asheville has a lot to offer on its own. The city has a thriving arts and music scene and lots of restaurants and breweries. There is plenty of nature, too: the Blue Ridge Mountains are next door to the east, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to the west, and the incredibly scenic Blue Ridge Parkway (a beauty in the fall), which runs from Virginia down to Cherokee, North Carolina, cuts right through the city.

Read Reviews The Inn on Biltmore Estate

Read Reviews Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate

Barnard, Vermont

We don't need to state the obvious: Vermont is gorgeous in the fall. Twin Farms , quite possibly the state's most idyllic and bucolic hideaway, used to be the home of novelist Sinclair Lewis. He bought the 18th-century farmhouse, and its 300 acres of land, with his wife Dorothy in 1928, and she continued to live there after their divorce until the '50s. Today, the 20-room retreat works hard to maintain the intimacy of a home. You might start your day with a round of tennis or outdoor yoga, then take a chef-made box lunch for a bike ride to nearby Woodstock or for a picnic in the woods. In the afternoon, curl up with a book and a glass of wine by the fire pit, taking frequent breaks to enjoy the foliage all around you. Then take a canoe out on Copper Pond for a serene paddle. After dinner, play a game of chess in a corner by the fireplace before retreating to your room for a nice soak in the clawfoot tub before bed.

Read Reviews Twin Farms

More: Incredible Spots to See Fall Foliage in New England

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

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Best places to travel in October 2024

Whether you’re looking for spring blooms, autumnal foliage or prime wildlife-viewing opportunities, you’ll find plenty of destinations to choose from if you’re planning to travel in October. Below are just some of the places we feel are at their best at this time of year, along with our suggestions on the best things to do there.

You could make the most of excellent hiking conditions in New Zealand, go whale watching in South Africa, or indulge in fresh produce during harvest time in Japan or Italy. And, in many of our chosen countries, you’ll be visiting outside the busiest times of year.

Festivals and events around the world in October

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Spain tends to bask in its last rays of sunshine in October, with temperatures still reaching a pleasant daily average of around 70°F. Add to this dwindling visitor numbers and you have an excellent month for exploring the country’s historic cities on foot, whether you want to tour the streets of Madrid, soak up Barcelona’s Art Nouveau architecture or delve into the history of Seville. Temperatures tend to be cooler in northern regions like the Basque Country, so if you’re looking to spend time on a beach, you’re better off heading south to Andalusia.

• Don't miss: Ávila and Segovia
• Flight time: 7 hours 40 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Madrid)
• Time difference: UTC +1
• October Temperature (Day): 66 to 79°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 1 to 5in, varies by region
• Explore Spain
• Spain tours
• Spain travel guides

Mild days make October a comfortable month for exploring France’s cities and countryside. You might experience some inclement weather, but crowds will have dissipated around major attractions and the country’s vineyards are heavy with grapes ready for harvesting. You can spend a day hopping between chateaux, tasting the vintages of different wineries while surrounded by fields of red and gold, or enjoying the sights of Paris with fewer visitors to contend with. Your visit might fall during Paris Fashion Week or, on the first Saturday of October, Nuit Balance — a night-time art festival across Paris’s museums and galleries.

• Don't miss: Médoc wine tour
• Flight time: 7 hours 20 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Paris)
• October Temperature (Day): 61 to 70°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 3 to 5in, varies by region
• Explore France
• France tours
• France travel guides

3. Portugal

The weather in Portugal during October is generally still warm, particularly further south, with more comfortable temperatures for exploring and hiking than in the summer. That said, you should be prepared for the occasional downpour. Like in France, Portugal’s vineyards are ready for harvesting, making it an exciting time to visit the country’s wineries for a tasting. Beaches are quieter and there are fewer visitors in Lisbon and Porto, making it a great time for a city break. And, if you’re in the countryside, you can admire the fall colors coating the landscape.

• Don't miss: Portuguese country cooking class
• Flight time: 7 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Lisbon)
• October Temperature (Day): 66 to 73°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 2 to 6in, varies by region
• Explore Portugal
• Portugal tours
• Portugal travel guides

With the countryside and city parks dappled in rich browns, flaming oranges and deep reds, and visitor numbers thinned from the summer months, October is one of the best times to visit England. Moorland is carpeted in vivid-purple heather, and while low clouds and rain are possible at some point during your trip, crisp, sunny autumn days showcase the country at its finest. After a bracing walk, you can cozy up beside a roaring fire in a traditional country pub. Or, if you’re sticking to the cities, you can soak up the sights with fewer people around to interrupt your experience.

• Don't miss: North Lakes explorer
• October Temperature (Day): 32 to 104°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 0 to 24in, varies by region
• Explore England
• England tours
• England travel guides

5. Scotland

Much like England, Scotland’s main draw in October is its autumnal foliage, with the Highlands being particularly beautiful at this time of year. The weather is unpredictable, but that’s the case whenever you visit Scotland, and with fewer visitors you’ll find your own place of solitude as you explore the country’s lochs, glens, mountains and islands. It also means attractions are quieter in cities like Edinburgh, whose pubs and bars become welcome retreats on cooler days.

• Don't miss: Castles and palaces of Edinburgh's surrounds
• Flight time: 6 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Glasgow)
• October Temperature (Day): 52 to 55°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 6 to 11in, varies by region
• Explore Scotland
• Scotland tours
• Scotland travel guides

With days still warm and the sea still retaining the summer sun’s heat, October is an excellent time to visit Greece, and offers good value. Fewer people will be crowding around the country’s ancient sites, museums are still open but less busy and beaches will be quieter. You might experience some rain at this time of year, but most days are still soaked in sunshine. It’s a good month for hiking along the coast or among the country’s hills, which take on the golden glow of autumn. And, with it being harvest time, you’ll find plenty of fresh food to eat.

• Don't miss: Hike to the monastery of Agia Matrona
• Flight time: 9 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Athens)
• Time difference: UTC +3
• October Temperature (Day): 68 to 73°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 2 to 3in, varies by region
• Explore Greece
• Greece tours
• Greece travel guides

While you’ll be lucky to avoid rain at this time of year, October in Ireland brings fresh air, beautiful autumnal hues across hills and woodland and a clutch of vibrant music and food festivals in Cork and Kinsale. A feeling of peace descends as visitor numbers fall, making it a good time to explore Dublin and Belfast’s historical and cultural attractions, tour whiskey distilleries or sample local food. Whether you’re sightseeing in a city or hiking in the countryside, you can end your day in a pub to warm up by the fire.

• Don't miss: How to see traditional Ireland
• Flight time: 6 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Dublin)
• October Temperature (Day): 54 to 57°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 3 to 6in, varies by region
• Explore Ireland
• Ireland tours
• Ireland travel guides

8. Argentina

Wildflowers in full bloom, waterfalls in peak flow, whales visible off the coast and uncrowded city streets: October is one of the best months to visit Argentina. You’re there before the summer heat kicks in, making it a good time to hike in the Lake District, where you can see brilliant flowers carpeting valleys and lining glassy lakes. You can also explore Buenos Aires while enjoying mild temperatures and fewer visitors at its key attractions. In Mendoza, you can stroll through vineyards, sampling vintages as you go. And, you can take a boat trip from the Peninsula Valdes to see southern right whales, which are present from June to November.

• Don't miss: How to spend two weeks in Argentina's Lake District
• Flight time: 11 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Buenos Aires)
• Time difference: UTC -3
• October Temperature (Day): 50 to 77°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 1 to 4in, varies by region
• Explore Argentina
• Argentina tours
• Argentina travel guides

As the monsoon season ends, October heralds the return of warm, sunny days, particularly in the north of India. The south can experience showers, but this creates vivid-green landscapes and freshens the air, making it a great time to explore outdoors, albeit with a waterproof jacket to hand. Average temperatures fall between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F). Despite the pleasant conditions, visitor numbers are still lower than in the coming months of November to January, so you can enjoy popular sights without the crowds. Your visit might also fall during Diwali, when everywhere is illuminated with candles, lights and fireworks.

• Don't miss: An expert guide to experiencing festivals in India
• Flight time: 15½ hours (Washington DC to New Delhi)
• Time difference: UTC +5:30
• October Temperature (Day): 50 to 97°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 0 to 13in, varies by region
• Explore India
• India tours
• India travel guides

10. Australia

In the midst of Australia’s spring, October is warm but not sweltering. Its landscapes are often covered in a vibrant layer of wildflowers as a result of occasional storms in the more humid north, which also add to the lushness of the country’s rainforests and wetlands. It’s a good time for viewing wildlife whether you’re in the north or the south of the country, and conditions are excellent for following hiking trails through national parks and along the coast. We recommend taking the opportunity to explore the Blue Mountains’ well-marked trails before the summer visitors arrive.

• Don't miss: Driving vacations in Australia: beyond the Great Ocean Road
• Flight time: 20 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Sydney)
• Time difference: UTC +7 to UTC +11
• October Temperature (Day): 59 to 100°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 0 to 6in, varies by region
• Explore Australia
• Australia tours
• Australia travel guides

11. New Zealand

As spring dawns, days get warmer and snowmelt feeds waterfalls and makes rivers ripe for white-water rafting. You can still expect rain, as with any time of year in New Zealand, but this isn’t a country you visit for the weather. With warm layers and a waterproof jacket to hand, you can take advantage of New Zealand’s mountainous landscapes, glistening fiords and volcanic parks without the same level of visitors that summer brings, driving quiet roads and enjoying the pick of hotel options.

• Don't miss: Ask the experts: where to go walking and trekking in New Zealand
• Flight time: 18 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Wellington)
• Time difference: UTC +12
• October Temperature (Day): 54 to 66°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 2 to 21in, varies by region
• Explore New Zealand
• New Zealand tours
• New Zealand travel guides

Autumn is unmistakable in Japan, with forests donning coats of bright red, blazing orange and warm gold. For the best displays during October, head to more northerly or high-altitude regions like Hokkaido. The weather is cooler than the summer, but still mild enough to enjoy time in the outdoors, making this a popular month for travel in Japan as people balance national parks with museums and galleries. October is also prime harvest time, so wherever you dine you can enjoy fresh, seasonal produce straight from the fields. You might also come across harvest festivals that range from low-key events to vibrant parades.

• Don't miss: Traditional Kyoto Cuisine Walking Tour
• Flight time: 14 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Tokyo)
• Time difference: UTC +9
• October Temperature (Day): 48 to 82°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 3 to 11in, varies by region
• Explore Japan
• Japan tours
• Japan travel guides

While China’s vast size means its climate varies by region, October is generally warm and dry. Visiting at this time means you’ll find a comfortable window between the humid conditions of summer and the cold winter months. We recommend avoiding the first week of October, when a national holiday means travel gets busy. But, the rest of the month is a good time to visit to enjoy autumnal displays in city parks and across rural landscapes, as well as mild temperatures and little rain.

• Don't miss: The Great Wall of China: taking a quieter path
• Flight time: 14 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Beijing)
• Time difference: UTC +8
• October Temperature (Day): 64 to 84°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 1 to 7in, varies by region
• Explore China
• China tours
• China travel guides

14. South Africa

Whale watching, wildflowers and wildlife viewing are all at their peak in South Africa during October, making it one of the best months to combine regions. Temperatures begin to heat up across the country, but the rains have yet to fall in the north. It means safari areas like the Kruger are still dry, making wildlife easier to spot as animals gather around vital water sources. Along the coast, southern right whales have yet to migrate south, so you can often see them breaching offshore. And, the country’s renowned wildflowers are still in bloom, covering the west coast’s dry and dusty landscape in a colorful carpet.

• Don't miss: Whale watching in South Africa
• Flight time: 20 hours (New York to Cape Town)
• Time difference: UTC +2
• October Temperature (Day): 66 to 81°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 0 to 5in, varies by region
• Explore South Africa
• South Africa tours
• South Africa travel guides

With the heat of summer now faded, October makes for a more comfortable time of year to explore Italy, and you won’t see as many visitors flocking to the country’s attractions. As well as enjoying quieter city breaks in Rome and Venice, you could venture into the countryside, where harvest is in full swing. It’s a particularly good time to dine on a bounty of fresh mushrooms, olives, truffles and chestnuts. And, with festivals dedicated to food and wine taking place across the country, you can taste your way through its rolling hills, rustic towns and villages and verdant valleys.

• Don't miss: Truffle hunting and tasting lunch
• Flight time: 8 hours 25 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Rome)
• October Temperature (Day): 57 to 75°F, depending on region
• Explore Italy
• Italy tours
• Italy travel guides

16. Thailand

While the weather can be difficult to predict in Thailand during October — it depends on the length of the monsoon season — lower humidity and fewer visitors arguably make this a more comfortable time to visit. For the best chance of avoiding rain, aim for the end of the month. That said, the odd downpour shouldn’t affect your trip too much, and creates lush, green landscapes in the north, where you can explore forests and waterfalls. If you’re planning to relax on the beach, be prepared to balance sunshine with heavy showers — staying on the mainland rather than one of the islands gives you a better chance of settled weather.

• Don't miss: Trekking in Thailand: four of the best trails
• Flight time: 23 hours (New York to Bangkok)
• Time difference: UTC +7
• October Temperature (Day): 86 to 90°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 5 to 14in, varies by region
• Explore Thailand
• Thailand tours
• Thailand travel guides

Enjoying the warmth of spring, Chile in October sees brilliant wildflowers coating its central and northern regions, mild days ripe for exploring and a smattering of rain here and there. While southern Patagonia is still feeling winter’s chill, you’ll begin to experience less rain and longer daylight hours, so as long as you wrap up, it’s a good time for hiking. Elsewhere, the Atacama Desert is a year-round destination, while in cities like Santiago you’ll be rubbing shoulders with fewer visitors than you would during the upcoming summer months, and should get more for your money.

• Don't miss: What to do in Chile: our highlights guide
• Flight time: 15 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Santiago)
• Time difference: UTC -4
• October Temperature (Day): 50 to 73°F, depending on region
• Explore Chile
• Chile tours
• Chile travel guides

As Peru reaches the end of its dry season in October, wildlife viewing in the Amazon rainforest and the country’s cloudforests is at its best and trekking conditions are excellent. The Sacred Valley trails will still be relatively crowd-free compared to the summer (though booking in advance is still required), and you can usually enjoy bright, sunny days with clear blue skies, along with mild-to-warm temperatures. Along the coast, surfers can pick up the early summer swells, or you can simply relax as temperatures in the north become increasingly pleasant.

• Don't miss: Machu Picchu & the Amazon Rainforest
• Flight time: 10 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Lima)
• Time difference: UTC -5
• October Temperature (Day): 70 to 84°F, depending on region
• October rainfall: 0 to 0in, varies by region
• Explore Peru
• Peru travel guides

More ideas by month

28 Best Places to Visit in October in USA (You’ll Love)

Posted on Published: August 23, 2023  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

There’s nothing quite like a fall vacation. The hustle and bustle of the summer is gone. Most tourist destinations are like sleepy ghost towns waiting for the rush of holiday travelers. So if you’ve ever wondered where’s the best places to visit in October in the USA – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Traveling in the fall, and more specifically, October cannot be beat. It’s the shoulder season for many destinations across the states. That means less crowds and affordable prices. And bonus – beautiful fall colors across much of the USA!

Traveling in the fall is one of the best times to take a vacation. But not every spot is equally as great. That’s why this list of the best fall vacations in the US is highlighting cool spots you’ve seen before, and even better destinations you haven’t heard of. 

And by the way…I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list . However, I haven’t been everywhere yet (working on it!) so I enlisted some travel blogger friends for help creating this epic list. 

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best fall vacations in the US

This list is covering a lot of the country! From the west coast to the east coast and some spots in between, this map shows a visual, which can be useful when planning your fall getaway.

Best places to visit in October in USA

October is a fabulous time to travel, and these are some of the most ideal spots in these gorgeous United States to see. From popular fall foliage spots to destinations you’ve never heard of, let’s dive into the list!

1. The Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina to Virginia

Average temp:  high 62, low 41

Stretching 469 miles from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive), the Blue Ridge Parkway is widely regarded as one of America’s most scenic roads.

More than 15 million people using the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP) each year, making it the most visited of all the national park units in the United States. So it’s also arguably the most popular!

The BRP’s origins date back to 1935, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt made the historic initiative part of his New Deal. It was designed to improve American infrastructure and create jobs as a means to accelerate the nation’s economic recovery after the Great Depression.

It took until 1966 to construct the majority of the road, and another 21 years to finish the picturesque stretch from the Linn Cove Viaduct to Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina. 

The result is an epic and iconic road trip that dazzles with spectacular colors in the fall, when the leaves turn to sun-speckled gems in red, orange, and golden hues. It’s by far one of the most scenic fall drives in the US!!

An autumn drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway takes you through the Jefferson, George Washington, Nantahala, and Pisgah National Forests; numerous impressive state parks (including NC’s Mount Mitchell State Park, the highest peak east of the Mississippi); and countless hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, lakes and streams. 

There are also some 200 breathtaking BRP overlooks as well as charming mountain towns such as Banner Elk, Boone, and  Little Switzerland . 

The best of the parkway’s landmarks include Grandfather Mountain State Park, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, Looking Glass Rock, and Julian Price Memorial Park. Each offers opportunities to savor the splendor of America’s wilderness at its most pristine, preserved by FDR for future generations.

Recommended by Bret Love and Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

2. Bend, Oregon (one of the most underrated and best places to visit in October USA)

Average temp:  high 62, low 33

While Bend, Oregon is a fantastic destination year-round, the fall is a great time to visit this Central Oregon town. You’ll find far fewer crowds than in the summer months and the crisp autumn air is perfect for many outdoor adventures.

Bend is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and October is a great time to experience Oregon’s high desert. Cooler autumn temperatures make it the perfect time of year to hit the nearby trails.

There are a variety of  hikes in Bend, Oregon  for all skill levels and in a diverse range of settings, from pine forests to snowcapped peaks to juniper and sage dotted deserts. You can also get out onto the water on a SUP or kayak or cruise through some of the famed Bend mountain biking trails.

A fun fall activity is to head to nearby Smith Rock State Park for beautiful views and a lovely riverside walk. Once you’ve had your fill, head to the ranch just outside the park that has a large pumpkin patch, food trucks and festive games for all ages.

October is the perfect time of year to hop around the different breweries around town to sample the local brews. If you’re a real craft beer enthusiast, you may want to participate in the Bend Ale Trail, which is run by the local tourism board. Collect stamps at each brewery you visit for a prize!

Recommended by Katie Diederichs of Go Wander Wild

3. Mammoth Lakes, California

Average temp:  high 60, low 30

One of the best places to visit in October in USA is  Mammoth Lakes . It’s located in Eastern California and is one of the most underrated places to visit in the USA in the fall. The beautiful colorful trees with the mountains in the background make this a wonderful place to stay in October. 

June Lake Loop is one of the best spots to experience the fall colors. There are many lakes to explore on the loop like Silver Lake, June Lake, Gull Lake, and Grant Lake.

The whole loop is filled with stunning yellow Aspen trees, and there are many spots to explore with these beautiful trees. Make sure to stop by Silver Lake Cafe for lunch and watch the stunning views of Silver Lake while you eat.

Another great spot to see fall colors is Convict Lake which is located southeast of Mammoth Lakes . The yellow Aspens are situated at the mountain base, so it is best to walk the whole loop.

You can also visit many of the lakes that are located in Mammoth Lakes Basin. They include lakes like Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George. It’s a magical area to explore in the early cool fall morning. 

There are so many yellow colors in Mammoth Lakes. It is probably one of the most underrated areas to experience fall foliage, and one of the best places to visit in the US in October!

Recommended by Michelle of The Wandering Queen

4. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado (one of the best October vacation destinations)

Average temp:  high 46, low 29

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain is one of the most beautiful (and popular) national parks in the country.

Located about 2 hours away from Denver, this park takes time ans effort to explore with countless trails, waterfalls and even one of Colorado’s most popular “fourteeners” Longs Peak. 

Rocky Mountain National Park is pure magic during fall, when the incredible golden colors come out in full display. The best time to see them is from mid-September through early October. 

Another thing you should know about visiting RMNP during the fall is that weekends still might be busy, as more people come to take pictures and see thousands of amazing golden-hue Aspen trees. Crowds begin to dissipate in the fall, and if you want the ultimate experience, try to plan your visit for weekday. 

To see the fall colors in their full glory, take a drive along the Trail Ridge Road that is open from Memorial Day until late October. The alpine highway is a perfect way to enjoy the the fall scenery at RMNP without getting out of the car. In fact, the Trail Ridge Road is one of the top Colorado bucket list activity!

Still, try to explore some trails. Take a hike or two to enjoy the fall colors , and if you plan on doing a more challenging trail at a higher altitude, make sure to bring some layers . Temperatures begin to drop in the fall, and it’s a good idea to bring a jacket with you, especially if you plan on camping here. 

Note: through most of October, the park requires a timed entry permit. Plan your trip in advance and grab your permit here .

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

5. Door County, Wisconsin

Average temp:  high 56, low 41

Door County, Wisconsin likely isn’t the first spot to come to mind when thinking of amazing fall colors in the United States. However, the colors here are breathtaking , and there are many wonderful activities to enjoy in Door County during fall! 

The colors begin changing during the end of September, and visitors hoping to see the leaves during their peak color should plan to visit the area in mid-October. 

To see some of the best fall colors in Door County, try hiking in Peninsula State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, Cave Point County Park and The Ridges Sanctuary, just to name a few spots.

For those looking for a less active leaf-peeping experience, be sure to take a drive along Highway 42. You can also see the leaves from above at viewing platforms, such as the newly constructed Sturgeon Bay Maritime Museum Lighthouse Tower. 

Fall is also a great time to visit the apple orchards in Door County. Be sure to stop by Wood Orchard Market, where you can get awesome seasonal products such as their special apple cider donuts! 

With the cooler fall temperatures, cozying up to a fire during a traditional Door County fish boil is one of the best  things to do in Wisconsin  at this time of year. Fish Boils are fun to watch and delicious. Each boil master makes theirs a little differently but, you can count on all recipes using white fish and various vegetables and spices boiled in a large kettle over an open fire.

Door County is an underrated destination, and definitely one of the best places to visit in October USA!

Recommended by Lindsey of Have Clothes, Will Travel

6. San Diego, California

Average temp:  high 74, low 61

Listen, San Diego has amazing temperatures most of the year, so there’s not really a ‘bad’ time to go. However, as someone who’s traveled to San Diego many times in the fall, I can truly say that October is a fantastic time to visit this amazing city!

Less tourists visit San Diego in the fall, so there’s not as many limitations to amazing activities because of overcrowding. For instance, the San Diego Zoo is a fantastic spot to explore. It’s really enjoyable in the fall when you can see what you’re there to see, instead of waiting all the time.

An amazing activity in the San Diego area is kayaking in La Jolla Cove in October. Other top things to do include Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego and Coronado Island.

By the way, here’s an idea of how to spend a weekend in San Diego if it’s on your short list!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

7. Oahu, Hawaii (top of the list for warm places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 84, low 69

The island of Oahu has beautiful weather throughout the year but fall is one of the best times to visit. At this time of year, you can expect fewer crowds around the island, plenty of days with clear blue skies and the island is still really warm so you can spend your time lying on the beach.

While it may be hotter in the summer months, the fall actually offers a more enjoyable temperature so you can get out and explore the island. 

One of the highlights of any visit to Oahu is exploring the many beaches dotted around the island. The most beautiful beach on Oahu is Lanikai Beach , which is a palm tree lined stretch of brilliant white sand and crystal-clear blue water.

As it’s on the east side of the island the water is usually quite calm so it is ideal for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. If you are feeling energetic you can kayak out to the Mokalua Islands which are just a few hundred metres from shore. 

Another great activity is to explore Kualoa Regional Park, which is where scenes from Jurassic Park were filmed. You can explore the park on foot or take a quad bike tour. The mountains here are unique with their deep ridges and tropical green coverings.

During a visit to Oahu you can also snorkel, surf, hike, visit local farms to try fresh fruit and so much more. It’s an amazing island and the weather in particular makes this a perfect fall getaway.

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

8. Acadia National Park, Maine (a top choice on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 55, low 38

Acadia is among a very small group of US national parks with two genuine ‘peak’ seasons. Summer is naturally congested in Acadia, but fall is equally as busy and because of the spectacularly beautiful Autumnal foliage lighting up the park.

But striking colors aren’t everything and the fall season is loaded with other benefits in Acadia National Park. 

Hiking conditions are cooler in September and October, which comes in particularly handy when climbing both of Acadia’s adrenaline pumping hikes – Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail.

Beehive and Precipice are the two outstanding hikes but there are a dozen other trails without ladder climbing elements. All of which summit with remarkable views over the Gulf of Maine, gorgeous lakes, tiny islands and of course mountain sides covered in vibrant orange, yellow, red and green trees.

Epic sunrises are one of Acadia’s greatest assets and from the summit of ultra-popular Cadillac Mountain, you can be among the first people in the US to see the sun rise over the eastern horizon. In fall, sunrise is over an hour later than in summer, which means a slightly less agonizing alarm time.

To see the richest and most vivid colors, simply get stuck into all of the  best things to do in Acadia National Park , including hikes, lakes and carriage roads.

Pro tip: Be sure to book Bar Harbor accommodation a long way in advance to avoid missing out and always be out in the park early, parking spaces are limited and fill quickly each day.

Without a doubt, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in October in USA.

Recommended by Mark and Kristen of Where Are Those Morgans?

9. Moab, Utah

Average temp:  high 74, low 41

Moab, Utah is an adventure city in the Southwest USA. With countless national parks, state parks and recreation areas surrounding Moab, it’s truly an amazing place to vacation.

It makes this list of the best places to visit in October in the USA because the weather usually hasn’t turned too wintry yet to enjoy the outdoors. And in the summer, Moab is packed with tourism!

If you love hiking, October is the perfect time to explore Arches National Park by foot or hike Canyonlands National Park . There’s also white water rafting, canyoneering, wineries and breweries and so much more.

Visitors should still book accommodations as far out as possible to get the best pricing. And be sure to book any tours in advance since Moab is a hot spot!

Related: 30 Cool Things to Do in Moab, Utah

Best October vacation destinations

Some amazing spots have already been covered, but some of the best fall foliage in USA continues…

10. Asheville, North Carolina

Average temp:  high 68, low 46

Asheville, North Carolina is one of the best places in the US to experience fall.  The mountains are blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves, the weather is perfect and the orchards are open. 

While it may be the busiest time of year, it’s well worth the visit, but try to time it for a weekday visit instead of the weekends.

Be sure to spend some time walking around downtown Asheville and wandering the shops of the hip West Asheville area.  Visiting the Biltmore Estate is also a must-do. 

There are so many amazing places to eat in Asheville, you’ll be able to try new, delicious food for every meal. Tupelo Honey and Gan Shan West are great options.

One of the best things to do in Asheville is driving part of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway and the best time to  drive the Blue Ridge Parkway is fall . There are tons of hikes to waterfalls nearby like Linville Falls, Looking Glass Falls, or Moore Cove Falls. 

Visiting Asheville in the fall makes all of these things even better than they normally are because you get to see them surrounded by stunning fall foliage, and who doesn’t love that?  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

11. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington (a PNW fave on this list of best places to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 47, low 33

Within the Pacific Northwest, Mount Rainier National Park boasts vibrant autumnal colors not only on the leaves of its famously grand trees, but also from the wildflowers, succulents, and other fauna carpeting the park’s rolling valleys.

If you’re looking for some of the best spots to see the fall colors, head to the Skyline Trail Mount Rainier, a 5.5 mile hike that takes you up close-and-personal with Mount Rainier and meanders through meadows aflame with autumnal foliage, from the vibrant red of scarlet paintbrush to the flaming orange of elderberries. 

Alternatively, check out Naches Peak Loop, a part of the Pacific Crest Trail that traverses colorful subalpine valleys bursting with autumnal colors while snowy Mount Rainier looms overhead.

For a lower impact way to enjoy the fall foliage, take a scenic drive through the Chinook Scenic Byway. It’s a 107 mile road that will take you through both Mount Rainier National Park and Mount Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest.

This drive provides a gorgeous tour of rushing waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and of course, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains’ beautiful fall colors.

With stunning autumnal foliage, world-class hiking, and a variety of activities for all types of travelers, Mount Rainier in the fall is a fantastic place to explore. 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

12. Boston, Massachusetts

Average temp:  high 62, low 47

Fall is the ultimate time to visit New England. From “leaf-peeping” in parks to crisp weather and apple-picking, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the region from all over the world. If you’re seeking a combination of a city break and a fantastic fall destination, consider Boston.

Boston is teeming with history, green spaces, restaurants, and quaint neighborhoods to charm any visitor. Known as the “Cradle of the American Revolution,” don’t miss the Freedom Trail .

It’s a 2-mile, largely flat walking path that traces various sites of historical importance, such as the site of the Boston Massacre, the beginning of Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride, and the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown.

The Trail kicks off at the beautiful Boston Common, the oldest city park in the U.S., dating back to 1634! As you walk, you will also discover other lovely fall destinations, such as the Beacon Hill neighborhood, with its cobbled streets and romantic buildings. Be sure to stop at Acorn Street, said to be the most-photographed street in the U.S .

For some Victorian splendor, visit Copley Square and the Back Bay, gazing up at its two beautiful churches and the Boston Public Library – certainly one of the city’s most picturesque places. In particular, the Library’s Bates Room, with its glowing lamps and vintage books, will give you major “back-to-school season” vibes.

Nearby, the Commonwealth Avenue Mall has gorgeous trees in blazing fall colors – one of the best places to check out fall foliage in town . There are also a variety of parks to discover if foliage is what you seek, including the Fens, the Emerald Necklace parks system and the Public Garden. 

Boston is certainly one of the best places to travel in October in USA, especially if you love history!

Recommended by Tegan and Alex of Why Not Walk Travel Guides

13. Napa Valley, California (a favorite of these fall vacation ideas)

Average temp:  high 77, low 47

It’s without question that the beautiful  Napa Valley  region in California is one of the most beautiful fall travel destinations in the USA. The normally vibrant green of the grapevines turns to shades of yellow, gold and orange in Napa Valley. And as the weather cools, the leaves start to fall, leaving a carpet of orangey gold underfoot.  

Napa Valley is actually a region featuring a collection of towns in between the vineyards and rolling hills. The area is a really easy drive from the best things to do in San Francisco , and will take around 1.5 hours. Having a car is a great idea in Napa Valley so that you are able to hop between wine tastings and towns at your leisure.  

For a spectacular view, Artesa Wines is a great choice for a wine tasting as the large-windowed cellar door sits stop a hill providing great panoramic views of the surrounding valley.  

Auburn James, just outside St Helena, is also a beautiful winery to stop in at, with a gorgeous tasting room. It is worth noting that booking in advance for your tastings is always a good idea and usually involves a small payment.  

Once you’ve finished your wine tastings, head into the township of St Helena for dinner at the Farmstead – a stellar farm to plate restaurant pairing local wines with delicious food.  

Recommended by Emma of Emma Jane Explores

14. Chicago, Illinois

Average temp:  high 62, low 50

If you’re looking for the best place to visit in October USA, look no further than Chicago!  This fun city is vibrant and full of fall foliage! Plus, there’s a ton of things to do, indoor and out.

While you could spend a week in the city, a Chicago 3 day itinerary would be just about perfect. 

A must-see is Millennium Park and the world-famous “Bean.” October is the  perfect time to witness the ever changing colors of autumn against the Chicago skyline.  The Bean is sort of like the cherry on top of that whole experience!

If you’re into museums, Chicago has so many options to choose from. The Art Institute of Chicago is located downtown within walking distance of many other main attractions. Enjoy works by Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and so many others!

You can  visit the Willis Tower Skydeck , where you can walk out on a ledge over 100 stories up (indoor, don’t worry!) and see the city below.  Another perfect activity is the Navy Pier,  where you can walk, dine and even join in on fun activities like a mirror maze or giant Ferris wheel!

With typically mild weather conditions in Chicago, it’s one of the best US cities to visit in October! Daytime averages in the 60s and nightly about 50 degrees, layers will be your friend!

Pro tip : stay near downtown or within a short metro ride to the city center. It’s a relatively walkable city so be prepared with your cute walking shoes !

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

15. Kauai, Hawaii (another favorite on this list of best places to visit in the US in October)

Average temp:  high 76, low 60

It sounds cliché, but Hawaii is such a gorgeous destination that it’s always worth the visit! However, as someone who has been to this beautiful island chain many times, visiting in the fall is one of my very favorite times to go.

Kauai is one of the best places to visit in October in the USA because it’s the shoulder season so it’s more affordable. Hiking trails and parking lots are generally less full, making it a great time to vacation on this island.

Highlights in Kauai in October

• See the Waimea Canyon and NaPali Coast. It’s absolutely stunning! 
• Helicopter tour of the island . Since 80% of it isn’t drivable, this is the best way to see this gorgeous place.
• Hike the first 2 miles of the Kalalau Trail . You’ll have to get advanced reservations to enter the park, but it’s a breathtaking experience!
• Hike the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in southern Kauai near Poipu. This is and easy walk and offers ocean views nearly the entire way.
• Snorkel on Anini Beach. It’s one of the most calm spots on the island and a great spot to see sea turtles! (Just be sure to respect Hawaiian culture, keeping your distance from sea turtles and not walk on the coral.)

For the best places to eat in Kauai, it’s easier to get reservations for restaurants (which is recommended for Kauai since it’s a smaller island) in October.

Hands down, Hawaii is one of the very best states to visit in October, and Kauai is phenomenal!

16. Lutsen, Minnesota (an underrated and absolute best fall vacations in the US)

Average temp:  high 52, low 34

A fabulous, unknown place to many for enjoying fall leaf color and waterfalls can be found on the North Shore along Lake Superior in Minnesota. The North Shore is a special place and is only 2 hours north of Minneapolis-St Paul airport.

Duluth is where the journey begins, but for the full experience continue northward two more hours to Lutsen, Minnesota.  It’s truly one of the best places to visit in October in USA!

Let’s go! Start the adventure in Canal Park in Duluth, MN with the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge in the backdrop, while you explore the lighthouse pier and the newly renovated Lakewalk. Your drive will continue with must-see stops at Gooseberry Falls, Splitrock Lighthouse and Temperance River State Park.

Great accommodations can be found in Lutsen or Grand Marais, which are centralized for hiking and lots of activities in the area. An aerial gondola ride over the Poplar River and up the Moose Mountain is an experience not to miss to see the best fall leaf colors !

The window for peak fall color on the north shore varies anywhere from mid-September to early-October. However, the fall colors continue to be stunning in different types of forests at times beyond that window.

If you haven’t yet experienced the North Shore of Minnesota in the fall it’s one to add to your list! There are so many things to do and places to stay, it’s easy to find hotels on the North Shore MN as well.

Recommended by Michelle of Almost There Adventures

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Average temp:  high 58, low 46

Welcome to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the town National Geographic Travel has crowned “America’s Greatest Small Town.”

Portsmouth is the crown jewel of New Hampshire’s Seacoast and is perfectly situated within an hour from the White Mountains and an hour from Boston. Its location makes it the perfect New England destination for leaf peeping .

Downtown historical Portsmouth is very unique as it has colonial homes dating back to the 17th century. The most famous historical portion of the city is located in the south end. Strawbery Banke, an outdoor history museum, is New Hampshire’s oldest neighborhood to be settled by Europeans.

When visiting Portsmouth, be sure to check out all the small businesses downtown in an area of the city known as Market Square.

Portsmouth has more restaurants per capita than any other small town in the United States and is also home to dozens of charming boutiques. These boutiques come to life during the autumn with their seasonal decor and gift offerings.

Be sure to swing by Cup of Joe cafe for a cozy cup of salted caramel hot chocolate or their signature pumpkin spice latte. Lastly, the best thing about Portsmouth, NH is it’s a very walkable town, meaning no car is needed to explore this charming downtown this upcoming autumn season !

Recommended by Nicole of The Abroad Blog

18. Eastern Sierra, California

Average temp:  high 62, low 38 (varies)

The Eastern Sierra of California is a fabulous fall getaway destination in the USA. Fall color here is considered second only to New England , so you know you are in for a visual treat if you visit when the colors are at their peak!

From Lake Tahoe in the north to Bishop and Lone Pine in the south, the region is ablaze with foliage colors in the fall. You’ll be mesmerized by the show of yellow, oranges, and reds put on by aspens, willows and cottonwoods. 

Taking a  Highway 395 road trip  is a great way to enjoy fall in the Eastern Sierra. If you prefer to have a base, Mammoth Lakes and Bishop are the largest towns in the area, and make for good bases from which to explore the beauty of the fall foliage all around you.

Doing scenic drives to enjoy the colors is the top thing to do in the fall. There are numerous paved and dirt roads you can drive. Both Inyo and Mono Counties offer the most beautiful drives. If you plan to drive the dirt roads, bring an appropriate vehicle.

The region is also known for its numerous spectacular lakes, so get out onto the water to enjoy the colors on the banks. Boating or kayaking is offered at many lakes. You can also go hiking, to view the colors up close: there are many legendary Eastern Sierra hikes from which to choose.

The Eastern Sierras are certainly one of the beset October vacations USA for lakes, mountains and hiking.

Recommended by Dhara of Roadtripping California

19. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia (another underrated destination on this list of beset places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 58, low 39

You’ll hit gold if you visit Shenandoah National Park during the autumn . . . plus orange, red and burgundy.

Shenandoah’s trees shed their green attire. Autumn’s palette paints the forest rusty orange, reddish yellow, and burgundy. Woodland creatures abound, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys and bats.

Located less than two hours from Washington DC, Shenandoah National Park attracts hikers and drivers. It’s also a favorite for singles and families to spend a weekend. But book your reservations early for either the park campgrounds or the Skyland Resorts and Big Meadows hotels, as they routinely sell out for the weekend.

The best time to visit is Monday through Thursday as the 105-mile Skyline Drive can turn into a traffic jam in October at peak foliage times. Skyline Drive weaves its way across western Virginia. Speed limit is 35 mph.

Your best bet is to enter the enter at the Front Royal Entrance, stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitors Center to get a panoramic family portrait and then head down the road. Stop at a convenient parking lot so you can hike through forests, scale rocky ledges, explore Appalachian Trail stops and watch waterfalls.

Or you can spend 3 hours traveling the entire length of the park on Skyline Drive. It ends at Rockfish Gap Entrance Station, which is also the northern entrance to the  Blue Ridge Parkway .  Shenandoah National Park features 200,000 acres of protected land. Stony Man and Hawksbill peaks exceed 4,000 feet.

This beautiful fall destination is the perfect getaway for families, couples, solos or even a friends’ trip!

Recommended by By Terri of Female Solo Trek

Fall vacation ideas

From big cities to wide open spaces, there’s still plenty more places to see on this mega list of the best place to visit in October in the US!

20. Austin, Texas

Average temp:  high 82, low 60

What a perfect city for a fall getaway! As someone who’s visited Austin a few times, I can honestly say October was my favorite! The weather is way better (i.e. way less hot) than during peak travel season.

Visiting Austin in the fall is the perfect time for outdoor adventures. There’s so much hiking in Austin, plus fall festivals, outdoor drive-in movies, pumpkin patches and more.

If you love being on the water, Lady Bird Lake is a great spot for kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. For easy hiking in Austin , consider McKinney Falls State Park, Barton Creek Greenbelt or the popular Mount Bonnell.

Of course there’s live music all over Austin, and let’s not forget the mural hunting, either. Whether you’re going for Insta-worthy shots or just happen to walk by them on your way to get epic cone at Amy’s Ice Cream, you’re bound to find some fun artwork in the downtown area.

October is the perfect time of year to spend a weekend in Austin .

21. Newport, Rhode Island

Average temp:  high 62, low 53

One of the best fall vacations in the US is definitely Newport, Rhode Island. The area has peak fall foliage throughout October.

It’s a small town located on Aquidneck Island and is surrounded by beautiful beaches and sea cliffs. During the fall, you can walk around and enjoy outdoor activities without the crowds.

The majority of people drive to Newport from somewhere on the east coast. If you’re visiting from further away, you can fly into Providence, Rhode Island, only 45 minutes away. 

One of the best  things to do in Newport  is see the history of the area on the Cliff Walk. You can walk 3.5 miles past the Breakers, one of the Newport mansions, around sea cliffs, and past a few beaches.

Newport’s mansions are renowned for their architecture and history. Some of the mansions were constructed in the early 19th century. Walk around the Wharves (Bannister’s and Bowen’s) in the evening for a variety of food and shopping. 

Newport has lots of delicious places to eat. For breakfast, head to Cru Cafe near the Audobain Museum – a great way to start the day is with their blueberry stuffed French toast!

Your New England vacation wouldn’t be complete without some seafood. At the Lobster Shack, you can find fresh seafood. You can stay at the Marriott Newport if you want to stay in the heart of Newport. The hotel is within walking distance of the wharves. 

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

22. Aspen, Colorado (a top choice for best places to visit in October in the US)

Average temp:  high 58, low 31

Perhaps one of the most beautiful fall foliage settings is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. The town of Aspen is perfect for a fall getaway because it’s surrounded by mountains and gorgeous aspen trees. I’m convinced it’s the among the best places to visit in October in USA.

Unlike some other destinations on this list which get vibrant reds and oranges during the fall, aspen trees turn a gorgeous yellow color. And when you get a mountainside full of them, it’s like eye candy!

A gorgeous day trip from Aspen is Maroon Bells Park. The feature is the mountain peak of Maroon Bells, which are surrounded by a lake and gorgeous aspen trees in the fall.

You could spend the day hiking the trails near the Maroon Bells if you love hiking and exploring the outdoors on foot. Note: you’ll want to plan ahead for this one, as reservations are now required to visit. Get your Maroon Bells reservations here .

Other things to do in Aspen include the Silver Queen Gondola, drive Independence Pass, visit the Ashcroft Ghost Town, and of course, shopping and dining in Aspen.

So whether you’re making the fall foliage in Aspen the focus of your trip or you’re combining it with an epic Colorado road trip , Aspen will surely be a highlight for a fall vacation!

23. New York City, New York

Average temp:  high 64, low 50

New York City is amongst the best places to spend fall in the United States. The city is known for its beautiful fall colors and even a bit of Indian summer if you’re lucky.

New York can get very hot during the summer so the fall is the perfect time to enjoy the city without the heat. Fall is a lot more comfortable for sightseeing and you’ll love the views of the city. 

If you’re traveling with older kids, this New York weekend itinerary with teens is the perfect mix of activities.

Head to the Highline Park which is a former elevated railroad track that has been converted into a walkway. It’s the perfect way to see the city without having to deal with the traffic and busy streets! 

For an even better view of the city, you need to go all the way to the top of the One World Trade Center . This modern skyscraper is a must-see and truly the best place to take pictures of the city.

Afterward, head to the river for an evening cruise. There are tourist boats that will take you around the Hudson and East River.

However, for a more affordable option just take the ferry to Jersey or Staten Island. The ride won’t be as long but tickets only cost a few dollars and you’ll get to avoid the tourist crowds.

A trip to New York City is one of the best October vacations USA and one you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel

24. Zion National Park, Utah (another favorite on this list of best places to travel in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 66, low 39

Zion National Park is simply stunning any time of year. However, it’s especially amazing to visit this national park in the fall.  With dwindled crowds and less intense weather to worry about, Zion is a great idea for a fall vacatio n!

If you want to hike the infamous Angels Landing, advanced planning is required, as the permit application process is during the summer. But, if you happen to get a permit for the hike, October is a phenomenal time to do it!

Of course, there are many things to do in Zion without hiking this challenging trail.  The much easier and yet equally rewarding Canyon Overlook Trail is a fun one, and can be completed for most fitness levels . At just a mile, this trail offers absolutely incredible views of the park!

A place for all ages, this park is magnificent for those young and old. An itinerary for Zion with kids includes other simple hikes like the Riverside Walk. Go further into the canyon by hiking The Narrows!

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in October, the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway Scenic Drive is incredible.  You won’t get the traditional vivid colors like some of the other destinations on this list of the best places to visit in October in US, but instead you’ll get amazing desert landscape and massive canyon views. So fun!

Be sure to pack plenty of water, layers for varying weather, hiking snacks and hiking gear like grippy hiking shoes , trekking poles and a hiking backpack .

Zion is absolutely one of the best places to go in October in USA, and a spot you’ll love!

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

25. Las Vegas, Nevada

Average temp:  high 83, low 46

Las Vegas is the perfect destination to visit all year round but fall is a great time to visit. Temperatures begin to cool after the summer and so do the crowds. Plus, visiting mid-week will get you cheaper hotel rates, too. 

Because temperatures are cooler, it means you can take advantage of some of the best outdoor attractions in the city, perfect for those visiting  Las Vegas for the first time .

Enjoy a Gondola ride at The Venetian, watch the Bellagio fountains or watch the volcano erupt outside The Mirage.

Rent a car or join a tour to visit the nearby national parks; Grand Canyon is the most popular day trip option from Las Vegas but October is a fantastic time to visit Death Valley, Red Rock Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Alternatively, head to the unusual Magic Mountains or explore ‘The Neon Museum’ , a gallery of old signage from Vegas hotels of the past. 

In the Bellagio hotel, you’ll find the gorgeous Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This is one of the best free things to do in Las Vegas and a great indoor activity to enjoy.

Each season, the gardens get transformed and the fall display is the most breathtaking. Expect oversized pumpkins, woodland creatures and tall, entertaining trees. 

For more natural fall colours, head to one of the nearby parks ; Floyd Lamb Park at Tule Springs, Paseo Verde Park and Gilcrease Orchard are top choices for this time of the year. 

We recommend staying at The Cosmopolitan; it’s an elegant, stunning hotel and rates are normally super high but drop during the Autumn time.

Recommended by Katie of Creative Travel Guide

26. Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)

Average temp:  high 69, low 46

Washingtonians and visitors don’t even have to hop in a car to enjoy peak fall foliage in a forest. Rock Creek Park is situated in the nation’s capital.

It’s the nation’s third oldest national park. Rock Creek Park was authorized in 1890.

Come October, the oaks, American beech and tulip trees suddenly change into the colors of the sunset—golden, orange and red. The 1,754-acre park features hikes for the hardcore as well as weekend adventurer.

If time permits, hike the two primary trails – Western Ridge Trail and Valley Trail. They run side by side. Imagine walking along a ladder laid on the ground.

Half-day hikes include Boulder Bridge, Milkhouse Ford, Rapids Bridge and Chestnut Oak/Mountain Laurels.

Or, devote a fall weekend to exploring Rock Creek Park . Tramp around the Civil War fortifications, watch interpreters at the Peirce Mill and Barn and visit the horses.

Bring a carrot or pull on your boots to ride a horse at the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, which is the only public riding facility in Washington DC.

Families will definitely want to visit the Nature Center and Planetarium. There are picnic areas scattered across Rock Creek Park, so fill a basket with ciders, sandwiches and apples.

Recommended by Terri of Female Solo Trek

27. Siesta Key, Florida (another favorite warm place to visit in October in USA)

Average temp:  high 85, low 67

A Florida beach may not come to the top of mind when thinking about the best October vacation destinations. However, it’s the perfect time to go! And what better way to end this list than one of the top-ranked beaches in the USA!

Siesta Key, Florida is home to turquoise water and some of the finest white powder sand you’ll ever step foot on. While you won’t see much fall foliage here, you’ll see wide open beaches and affordable prices, compared to the peak summer season and those looking for a winter escape.

Fall is the ideal time to visit Siesta Key. The weather is very comfortable and the water is still warm enough to enjoy.

From excellent restaurants, shopping, kayaking and beaching, there’s seriously so many things to do in Siesta Key. Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway as a couple, family, solo or friends trip, you’ll love spending time in Siesta Key!

While a bit unconventional in terms of fall colors, this is still one of the best places to visit in October in the USA.

28. New Orleans, Louisiana

Average temp:  high 81, low 62

New Orleans is one of the top warm places to visit in October in USA. It’s a fantastic walking city so it’s an ideal location to visit in the fall when the summer weather has cooled a bit and the crowds have left.

New Orleans is a very family friendly city , even in the French Quarter, or a great destination for a romantic getaway or a fun girls’ or boy’s weekend. 

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. Here you can aimlessly walk along cobblestone streets, poking your head into cute shops, or eating your way through delicious food.

One of the must-try treats is a beignet, a cross between a french pastry and a doughnut. They are easily found in the French Quarter. 

If you’re curious about the history of this area, take one of the many walking tours that will ultimately take you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Here you will learn all about the ghosts, the after-life and even voodoo, themes found all over New Orleans.

A fantastic experience is visiting the National WWII Museum, a short walk from the French Quarter.

This is an exceptional interactive museum that focuses on the United States’ role in Asia and Europe during WWII. It’s a thrilling experience that will grab the attention of anyone even those that aren’t normally interested in history or wars. 

There are countless exciting activities to do within a short drive of New Orleans. You can visit a plantation, like Oak Alley Plantation, and learn about slavery and a difficult part of US history. The drive there is beautiful and exploring the grounds is a lovely thing to do in the fall.

In addition, you can take a swamp tour which is a lot of fun. You hop on a bayou boat and explore some of the many surrounding swamps filled with crocodiles and other wild creatures.

October is the perfect time of year to visit New Orleans due to the cooling weather and reasonable crowds.

Recommended by Nicole of Go Far Grow Close

Best places to visit in October in the USA

Whew! What a list. I hope you’ve found enough inspiration for your fall getaway – or 2! With so many amazing spots in the USA to choose from, I’m sure you can’t go wrong!

Let’s recap those destinations again, in a much more condensed list…

Best fall vacations in US

• Blue Ridge Parkway, NC to VA
• Bend, Oregon
• Mammoth Lakes, California
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Door County, Wisconsin
• San Diego, California
• Oahu, Hawaii
• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Asheville, North Carolina
• Mount Rainier National Park, Washington 
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Napa Valley, California
• Chicago, Illinois
• Kauai, Hawaii
• Lutsen, Minnesota
• Portsmouth, New Hampshire
• Eastern Sierra, California
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
• Austin, Texas
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Aspen, Colorado
• New York City, New York
• Zion National Park, Utah
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Washington DC (Rock Creek Park)
• Siesta Key, Florida
• New Orleans, Louisiana

So, have you decided? Comment below with your fall vacation plans!

By the way, if you’re planning to rent a car for your fall getaway, check out the discounted rates on Discover Cars . I routinely save 10% – 30% on rentals. They search top car carriers to find the best deal, at no extra price to you! Here’s that link again to search rental cars .

Related content: 28 Underrated Destinations in the USA 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas You’ll Love) 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacation Spots in the USA 35 Swoon-worthy Beach Vacations 26 Best Beaches on the Gulf Coast 100 Romantic Vacations in the United States

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Sunday 27th of August 2023

I have actually visited quite a few of these in the autumn (I am from the UK!) I am pleased to say. There are still a few more to tick off though. Fall is my favourite season for visiting the US. I would especially love to see Aspen in the fall. I have only ever seen it in the winter. You have whetted my appetite for another fall road trip!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Oh yay Jane! I'm so glad to hear you've visited so many spots in the US during the fall season. Such a spectacular time to travel! Hope you get to cross a few more off your list soon :)

I've been to Kauai in October and you are correct, it's a great time to go! Warm, sunny and not too crowded either.

haha yes! Although there may not be a bad time to go to Kauai....🤣

Saturday 26th of August 2023

Love this entire listicle! All these places must be stunning during autumn and I'd love to visit some day. Thanks for sharing this!

You're so welcome Kelly. Glad you enjoyed the list!

This list is amazing. I completely agree with Bend, OR as one of the best underrated places to visit! I really want to get out to the northeast at some point to see the fall colors, they look incredible. Thanks for the inspiration.

Oh yay Sophie, so glad you found some inspiration here. The PNW is so stunning in the fall and worth the trip 🧡

Sunday 24th of October 2021

Such an exhaustive list Nikki! I am really glad that I stumbled upon your blog today. Hope to tick some of this list in the next few years though. Kudos on this article and stay safe! :)

Thursday 28th of October 2021

Thanks so much Darryl! It was fun putting an extensive list together. I hope you get to see many of the places on this list!

10 Best Places to Travel in October

Prepare yourself for a month of spirited traditions and natural transformation..

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Ah, October. The Goldilocks time to travel, when everything’s just right. Weather, crowds, and prices are all moderate, and the only thing over the top is the schedule of events and festivals.

We’ve scoured the world for the best this month, whether you want to chop your way through the home of karate, immerse yourself in an alternative Day of the Dead, or even tackle some hikes in an unexpected European mountain range. Here are 10 top places to travel in October.

1. Arcadia, Greece

Come to Greece in October and visit Dimitsana, one of the villages found in Arcadia.

Photo by ollirg/Shutterstock

October is great for . . . an alternative outdoor vacation in the heart of the Mediterranean.

To Renaissance writers, the Arcadian ideal was a shorthand for earthly paradise. To modern travelers, the IRL Arcadia can offer much of what they dreamed, located in a quiet corner of Greece in the Peloponnese that’s easily overlooked by those rushing to fly and flop on one of its many islands.

Pause, though, and dawdle on the mainland and you’ll be rewarded by a different vision of the country. Come here in fall to go mountain biking, horse riding, or even mushroom foraging; the Menalon Trail here was the first in Greece to earn “leading quality” status from the European Ramblers’ Association, a mark not only of its high-caliber maintenance but also its sustainable impact on local communities. Follow its almost five-mile length via shepherds’ tracks and steep valleys, and you’ll see why the ancient Greeks considered this area the home turf of Pan, the untameable god of the wild.

There’s ample centuries-old human history here, too, whether cliffside monasteries Prodoromos and Philosophos that date back to the Byzantine era or villages like Bytina and Dimitsana. And don’t leave without picking up a jar of fir-tree honey, a signature product of this region thanks to the millennia-old fir forests that cover the 6,500-foot-high Mount Mainalo.

Where to stay: Manna

• Book now: Manna

Come to this mountain retreat for a Greek riff on wellness, surrounded by fresh mountain air in a property originally built as a sanatorium in the 1920s and rebooted as a 32-room boutique hotel that opens this fall.

How to get to Athens

If you can, hop on the affordably priced Fifth Freedom flight that Emirates operates between New York and Athens—those throwbacks are always a bargain—or try the Delta service from Atlanta or American from Chicago, both of which are seasonal and end this month. It’s a 2.5-hour drive to the Peloponnese from there.

Día de los Muertos has its roots in Mexico, and is celebrated to honor the lives of ancestors and cycle of life and death.

Photo by Moab Republic/Shutterstock

2. San Antonio, Texas

October is great for . . . celebrating border culture, both haunted and hungry..

Don’t assume you need to cross the border to immerse yourself in a swirling, impactful celebration of Dia de los Muertos—the largest such gathering stateside is right here, a nod to San Antonio ’s close cultural and geographical connections to Mexico .

For two days, October 28–29, expect the city to celebrate the afterlife via a special Day of the Dead river parade and the usual trappings of a citywide festival—think live music and entertainment, food and craft stalls plus a huge, open altar exhibition. Expect bunches of marigolds ( cempasúchil ), paper cutouts, and the chance to nibble on pan de muerto.

The Tasting Texas Wine & Food Festival coincides with this celebration, running on Maverick Plaza from October 26 to 29, which includes special dinners at restaurants around the city as well as stand-alone events like Southern Hospitality, a chance to graze buffet-style on the best the city’s chefs have to offer.

Where to stay: Thompson Riverwalk

• Book now: Thompson Riverwalk

The two-year-old, 162-room hotel, housed in a 20-story building right above the River Walk in the emerging Arts District has two noteworthy F&B spots—a swanky restaurant by local chef, and James Beard finalist, Steve McHugh, and a casual rooftop restaurant for maximum views, the Moon’s Daughters.

How to get to San Antonio

There’s direct service from the West Coast on AA, Delta, and Southwest, or try JetBlue or United from the Tri-State area.

The island of Dominica is located on the Eastern Caribbean Sea.

Photo by Darryl Brooks/Shutterstock

3. Dominica

October is great for . . . celebrating the Caribbean’s musical heritage. For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, October 27–29 will mark the return of the country’s World Creole Festival . Anchored by Windsor Park Stadium in the capital, Roseau, it’s intended to champion music indigenous to this island, which also has influences from both Great Britain and France. It caps Creole heritage month and draws more than 10,000 visitors from around the globe to hear music like bouyon, which emerged on the island in the 1980s and has become popular across the entire Caribbean region.

While you’re here, don’t miss the local rum, which comes spiked with bois bandé, a local bark said to have aphrodisiac qualities. Also, take time to loll in the hot springs around Wotten Waven—a dip or two here is said to be skin-rejuvenating.

Where to stay: Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort

• Book now: Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort

Fort Young Hotel & Dive Resort is an unusual all-inclusive option, as its rates don’t just bundle F&B; activities like lionfish catching and hikes to the likes of Trafalgar Falls and Titou Gorge are also gratis.

How to get to Dominica

American Airlines services Dominica nonstop from MIA at least twice weekly this month, a new connection that’s unlocked the island for a quick weekend getaway.

Visit Okinawa and you can see sights like Shuri Castle in Naha.

Photo by Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

4. Okinawa, Japan

October is great for . . . experiencing a martial art in its spiritual home.

In Japan ’s tropical answer to Hawai‘i, October 25 is Karate Day or heiwa no bu , the martial art of peace. The sport is said to have originated here, when the islands were an independent kingdom for several centuries apart from the Chrysanthemum throne, and there are more than 400 dojos on the main island now. Come to learn a few moves from the free demos all along Kokusai Street in the capital of Naha.

Even better, this is the ideal time to be outdoors here, as the temps hover comfortably in the high 70s or low 80s; it’s the end of the beach season, so you can find a few secluded sand spits somewhere on one of the 6,000-plus islands that comprise this corner of the country. Take a one-hour boat ride from Naha for a day trip to Aharen Beach.

Make sure to stay up late, too, for some impressive live music in the venues around the island. Thanks to the longtime U.S. military base here, the tropical island cluster has become the hard rock hub of the country, producing a slew of its best riff-strikers like metal legends Taia.

Where to stay: Halekulani Okinawa Resort

• Book now: Halekulani Okinawa Resort

This 360-room outpost of the luxe Hawai‘i hotel was one of the first true high-end properties to open here in some time when it debuted in summer 2019. Japan’s pandemic-induced border closures have kept it as pristine as it was within weeks of opening.

How to get to Okinawa

Head to HND, the handier, international hub in Tokyo that has elbowed aside onetime focus NRT: Look for flights there from JFK on ANA or JAL, plus LAX on American, among others. The flight time is just under three hours from there to Okinawa.

Sonora Island is within the Great Bear Rainforest, a temperate rain forest in British Columbia.

Photo by Lynn A/Shutterstock

5. Sonora Island, British Columbia

October is great for . . . spawning salmon and the grizzlies that love them.

For the first two weeks of this month, you can still arrange a grizzly bear tour and see these beasts roaming their natural habitat, snacking at will on a salmon or two. Half of Canada’s entire population of grizzlies lives in B.C., which vastly increases your chance to spot them; expect to see adults and cubs in ample numbers.

Those salmon are a stand-alone appeal for humans, too: The chilly rivers teem with spawning fish through the beginning of this month, whether coho, steelhead, or pink—all five main species pass through the waters here. Stand on the waterside and watch with awe, or head out on a boat for a catch-and-release fishing session on the river.

Where to stay: Sonora Resort

• Book now: Sonora Resort

Sonora Resort is a glamorous ranch-style hotel set in a rugged countryside ideal for any get-up-and-go traveler with its own indoor tennis court, nine-hole putting green, and fly fishing ponds. Its 88 rooms are spread through a dozen, widely distributed lodges, maximizing both privacy and connection to nature.

How to get to Sonora Island

The closest hub is Vancouver, which has nonstop service from the East Coast on JetBlue and Air Canada, and flights from LAX and ORD, too on American and United. From there, the best connection is a 50-minute puddle jumper—book a seat with the hotel’s reservations team and fight for a seat with the best chance of taking a few snaps of the jaw-dropping views en route.

Viti Levu is Fiji’s largest island.

Photo by Viktor Hejna/Shutterstock

6. Viti Levu, Fiji

October is great for . . . glorious weather and national celebrations.

Sure, the weather is warm here this month—expect it to hover around 80 degrees during the day, with much lower humidity than in the summer—and the rainfall low before the wet season properly starts. Come this month, though, for a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s culture, as it celebrates Fiji Day on October 10.

This marks the date when the nation emerged from British rule in 1970, and locals will dress up in period costumes dating back to the 1870s, when it was first annexed on October 10, 1874, to reenact the Deed of Cessation. There is a military parade—brace yourself for some ear-splitting cannon blasts—as well as a celebration of the dual cultures that dominate Fiji today: native Fijian and Indian. Expect market stalls filled with headpieces and sarongs, plus lots of music and parades.

Where to stay: Nanuku Resort Fiji

• Book now: Nanuku Resort Fiji

The 500-acre private estate sits on the south coast of Viti Levu, the largest of the 300 or so islands in this nation, and operates much like a safari camp on a luxe all-inclusive basis. Its sustainability efforts, under the Batiwai Project umbrella, are world class.

How to get to Viti Levu

Head to Fiji on the country’s national carrier with direct flights to Nadi, the main airport, from LAX and SFO.

The Mohawk Trail is more than 60 miles long and includes stops like Western Gateway Heritage State Park and Natural Bridge State Park.

Photo by haveseen/Shutterstock

7. Western Massachusetts

October is great for . . . the ultimate fall foliage adventure.

Sure, travelers may assume the only place worth visiting in Massachusetts in October is Salem, but why not head a little west instead and shuck off the shuddery associations? Better to focus on some of the leaves on the slopes of the Berkshires: Usually, it’s at peak for the first couple of weeks this month, as the oaks, maples, and more change colors before carpeting the ground. The best route to follow is the Mohawk Trail , a 63-mile track taking in 50,000 acres of state parks and forest that opened in 1914, the first such scenic trail in the region.

On the first Sunday of the month, North Adams hosts a downtown parade celebrating the season. Don’t worry if you can’t make it that weekend: You can still hike the 14-mile or so Ashuwillticook Rail Trail or the shorter round trip of 5 miles on the Keystone Arch Bridges Trail; both once carried trains but have now been repurposed for walkers. Stop off, too, at Mass MOCA , the installation-heavy museum en route, as well as the so-called Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, right at the end of its blooming season heavy with dahlias, roses, and asters.

Where to stay: Warfield House Inn

• Book now: Warfield House Inn

The family-owned, 14-room property in Charlemont is on its own 180-acre mountaintop preserve and working farm. During the summer it’s renowned as a wedding venue, but by fall it’s well suited for a hike around the grounds.

How to get to Western Massachusetts

There’s an airport in Bradley, Connecticut, served by Frontier from Atlanta, Breeze from Fort Myers and Raleigh-Durham, and several other low-cost carriers. For Northeasterners, Amtrak’s service to Springfield or Pittsfield is the handiest.

While in Ely, travelers can visit the nearby Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

Photo by Dominic Gentilcore PhD/Shutterstock

October is great for . . . a star trek.

On October 14, 2023, the biggest celestial event of the year will take place, a solar eclipse—and the first of its kind in 11 years. It’s what’s called an annular eclipse, where the moon is just far enough from the Earth that it doesn’t entirely obscure the sun, but rather creates a dazzling ring of fire effect as it moves. It will be visible in much of the western USA, but one of the best spots to enjoy it will be Ely, Nevada, which sits directly in the path of totality—there, the eclipse will last for around 3.5 minutes starting from 9:24 a.m.

The area is celebrating its status as an eclipse spotter’s favorite via a five-day Ring of Fire Eclipse Festival , which starts on October 11. It will feature UFO events at the local White Pine Museum and the chance to ride the Nevada Northern Railway to view the eclipse, accompanied by NASA-affiliated interpreters.

Where to stay: Hotel Nevada

• Book now: Hotel Nevada

Dating back to 1929, this 64-room property was a celebrity favorite as it has hosted guests like actor Jimmy Stewart, singer Charlie Rich, and actress Ann Rutherford. It has just undergone a much-needed upgrade after a recent renovation.

How to get to rural Nevada

The easiest option for most visitors is Salt Lake City airport in Utah, a 3.5-hour drive away—it’s one of Delta’s main hubs, and the carrier connects it to most major cities across the country. If you’d rather not drive that far, check the once-daily commercial flight from SLC to EKO, operated by Delta subsidiary Skywest.

England’s New Forest National Park covers more than 200 square miles.

Photo by Helen Hotson/Shutterstock

9. London, United Kingdom

October is great for . . . classic cocktails and country walks.

Instead of the New England countryside, consider heading to England’s New Forest this fall. The name is a misnomer, an almost millennium-long holdover from William the Conqueror’s time, who called it the Nova Foresta. Today, it’s one of the largest undeveloped tracts of pasture and forest in the entire country at more than 71,000 acres. There are some 140 trails and walks quilting the countryside from which you can enjoy the fall colors: Don’t miss the quarter-mile-long Knightwood Oak trail, named after a redwood-like oak tree at its heart whose trunk has a 24-foot circumference.

Head back to the capital for London Cocktail Week, October 12–22, which hits its 13th year in 2023. Pick up a wristband for £15 (around US$19), and then ricochet between more than 300 bars in the capital, where you’ll score cut-price drinks as an LCW insider when you flash that band. Expect the same assortment as last year, including master classes, special pop-up venues, and chances to meet master distillers.

Where to stay: Chewton Glen

• Book now: Chewton Glen

Did someone say tree house? There are 72 standard rooms here, but the real appeal is the 14 spots that allow you to crash amid the canopies 35 feet above the ground, indulging your inner kid.

How to get to London

There are budget carriers like Norse and Play, offering cut-price no-frills trips from the East Coast. Also consider JetBlue’s new service from BOS and JFK—there’s even a daytime flight from the latter, which means you don’t need to worry about struggling for shut-eye on a red-eye.

Israel’s Negev desert region is found in southern Israel.

Photo by Alexander Ingerman/Shutterstock

October is great for . . . indie culture in an alternative setting.

Come in the first week of the month to enjoy the four-day Tamar Festival , which runs October 2–6 and coincides with the joyous festival of Sukkot. Its name, which means “date,” is intended to symbolize the end of the harvest season, and the eclectic programming showcases creatives of all kinds at several sites at the foot of Mount Masada. Concerts take place in the evening and at sunrise.

From October 12 to 14, indie music festival InDnegev is held out in the wilds of the Negev Desert in the country’s southern reaches. Think of it as the Middle Eastern answer to Glastonbury or Woodstock, a chance to enjoy more than 100 shows featuring both well-known names and upcoming performers. It started in 2007 and has grown ever since, drawing around 12,000 fans each year. The lineup in 2022 included Afghan Whigs and Tess Parks, as well as local talents like Evyatar Banai and Shlomi Shaban.

Where to stay: The Beresheet Hotel

• Book now: The Beresheet Hotel

This 111-room five-star resort sits right in the Negev Desert, overlooking the Ramon Crater, the 24-mile-long so-called erosion cirque, created millions of years ago when this land was under water—take a thrilling Jeep tour to see it up close.

How to get to Israel

It’s easy to reach Israel from American’s main hubs, with flights on Delta, El-Al, and United from Miami, Los Angeles, NYC, and San Francisco.

The 10 best places to visit in October

Editor's note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

As summer gradually gives way to autumn and the vibrant colors of fall adorn the landscape, there's an allure to explore beyond home. Not to mention, many of the summer crowds have thinned out, making it easier to explore some destinations.

Whether you're someone who appreciates nature, enjoys delving into history, or savors culinary delights, there's a destination prime for visiting during this time. So, where should you go?

From countryside getaways to bustling havens, these are the 10 best places to visit in October.

Marrakech, Morocco

In October, autumn truly settles in, marked by a drop in daytime temperatures that cools off even more during the night. The crowds remain low this month since summer vacations have ended, students have returned to school, and the celebratory holidays haven't fully begun.

October is the harvest month and the ideal time for a culinary-focused adventure. Morocco, known for its saffron production, predominantly carried out by Berber women, peaks during this time. These women start their work early in the morning, hand-picking the delicate saffron strands before the sun's rays cause the flowers to bloom. Stroll through the medina to sample the freshest produce, like saffron, apples and dates. Or venture into the nearby Ourika Valley or Atlas Mountains to understand the process up close. October provides the perfect opportunity to delve into this rich aspect of Moroccan culture.

TPG tip : For an uber-luxurious stay, the Royal Mansour Marrakech should be your pick. Rates start at $2,500 or 170,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night. The property recently introduced a cooking school offering two-hour workshops. For a less expensive option, stick with Le Méridien N'Fis. You can get a room here for $134 or 15,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Breckenridge, Colorado

At 9,600 feet above sea level, this historic mining town is among the first in North America to welcome the stunning fall colors. The splendid aspen trees undergo an early transformation into brilliant gold due to the high elevation, filling the landscape with dazzling hues.

Adventure seekers can embark on one of the premier fall drives along Boreas Pass, where the blend of golden aspens with views of the Blue River Valley and the Tenmile Range is a sight to behold. French Gulch Road also offers beautiful scenery with historic mines and abandoned town sites surrounded by vibrant colors. Fall is an excellent time to go fly-fishing in Breckenridge, with the gold medal status Blue River running right through the town. The combination of golden scenery, the sounds of the river, and perfect cool temperatures make it a sensory experience, and Breckenridge Outfitters provides various classes and guided excursions to suit all skill levels.

Related: Why Breckenridge, Colorado, should be at the top of your fall travel list

TPG tip : Stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Breckenridge. Rates start at $157 or 47,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Beaufort is a must-visit destination in October, thanks to cooler temperatures that offer a pleasant break from the summer heat. While you're exploring North Carolina 's cultural pursuits and gorgeous landscapes, don't miss the community oyster roasts, where you can enjoy oysters, chili, hot dogs, and beer for your ticket price. Also, check out local events in September and October, including the annual Beaufort Pirate Invasion and the 37th Annual North Carolina Seafood Festival in nearby Morehead City.

TPG tip : Book a room at the Beaufort Hotel on the banks of Taylor's Creek for around $200 or 13,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Paris is a sublime destination for travelers in October, filled with cultural enrichment, festive events and pleasant weather.

Once the summer crowds have dispersed, the city comes alive with unique attractions. Art lovers will be drawn to the Joann Sfar retrospective at the Museum of Art and History of Judaism (known as the "mahJ"). The exhibit begins Oct. 12 and showcases the intriguing works of the renowned French comic book artist.

Additionally, the Musee d'Orsay will host an exhibition devoted to Van Gogh's last two months in Auvers-sur-Oise from Oct. 3 through Jan. 28, 2024. For a spirited celebration, the Grape Harvest Festival in Montmartre, running from Oct. 11 to 15, offers traditional wine-making activities, concerts, food, wine tastings and a grand group picnic. The festival attracts over half a million visitors each year. Also, the Musee National de la Marine reopens in mid-October after seven years of renovation. The museum unveils life under the sea with over 900 restored items.

Related: Paris Pocket Guide: What to see, do and eat in the City of Light

TPG tip : Stay at the Kimpton St Honoré Paris for around $695 per night or Holiday Inn Paris - Gare de l'Est for $288. Both take IHG One Rewards points, with the Kimpton costing 120,000 points per night and the Holiday Inn at 59,000.

Douro Valley, Portugal

Italy's vineyards and Napa's renowned wineries often steal the spotlight for wine harvesting. However, Portuga l's Douro Valley emerges as a captivating contender, especially in October. This is when the grape harvest is in full swing, creating an enchanting experience for wine aficionados. As the world's oldest demarcated wine region, the Douro Wine Region Valley stretches its charm to Barca de Alva, where river-carved valleys have been artfully transformed into terraced vineyards, weaving a narrative of natural beauty and human craftsmanship.

With the schist mountains ablaze in fiery-hued vines, October paints a picture of generations of viticultural wisdom. The sun-drenched terraces infuse the grapes with warmth, creating the distinctively delicious sweet wines the region is celebrated for.

TPG tip : Stay in the heart of the wine region at Octant Douro for around $340 a night (or 27,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points).

Bermuda becomes an exciting place for art lovers in October. It's called Art Month, and the island's artists show off their talents in many ways. You can join art workshops on the beach or have fun painting in beautiful caves. There are also interesting art tours and talks about art. You'll see unique exhibits, too, with artworks from local and international artists.

Additionally, the weather in October is typically pleasant, with warm temperatures and less humidity, making it an ideal time to explore Bermuda's beautiful beaches, landscapes and outdoor activities. The tourist crowds are also thinner compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

TPG tip : When visiting, what better hotel to visit than an art museum in its own right? Hamilton Princess is known as "The Pink Palace" and boasts a remarkable 325-piece art collection. Book a stay there for around $1,200 a night. Or, also use your Accor Live Limitless (ALL) points .

Related: 7 Florida hotels that feel like the Caribbean

Does it get any better than Scotland in the fall? From Oct. 27 to 29, enthusiasts can revel in a peerless whisky experience at the annual Dornoch Whisky Festival . Against the stunning backdrop of the Highlands, indulge in some of the finest spirits the world has to offer. Also, the weather is comfortably cool, perfect for exploring historic castles, serene lochs and charming villages. Cultural events like the Highland Games showcase Scotland's traditions, while the possibility of witnessing the northern lights adds an extra layer of excitement.

Related: How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh

TPG tip : Stay in a modern castle , miles from the royal grounds of Balmoral Castle, at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Craigendarroch Suites Scotland from $205 or 101,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

As Barcelona 's summer heat gives way to autumn, tourist crowds subside, and a more genuine local vibe emerges with residents returning from vacation. Queues at cultural landmarks shrink, and reservations at wineries and restaurants become easier to obtain.

Don't miss special events like the 48-Hour Open House event Oct. 21-22, where over 200 buildings and museums offer free entry. A unique Miro-Picasso exhibition will open at both Fundacio Miro and Museu Picasso to mark the 50th anniversary of Picasso's death, providing insight into the relationship between Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro. Also, rooftop concerts at Gaudi's Casa Batllo will also continue throughout the month, enriching the city's cultural scene.

TPG tip : On Passeig de Gracia in the heart of the Gothic District, Almanac Barcelona (available for around $400 or 27,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night) serves as the perfect starting point for exploration. The property also offers enticing features such as a panoramic rooftop terrace for soaking up the last rays of sunshine, a vegetable-centric restaurant and an art collection curated by local artists.

Clearwater, Florida

During the autumn, Clearwater 's weather is still warm and sunny, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing without boiling. This coastal destination offers many enjoyable events and festivals throughout the fall months too. Notably, the vibrant SHINE St. Petersburg Mural Festival , a showcase of local art within public spaces, will grace the city Oct. 12-23.

Additionally, on Oct. 19-22, music enthusiasts will delight in the annual Clearwater Jazz Holiday , a highly anticipated event at the newly revitalized Coachman Park. This year's headliners include The Beach Boys and Gladys Knight. Visitors also have the opportunity to explore various attractions during their stay.

Related: 13 of the best beaches in Florida

The iconic Pier 60 is also a popular hub for fishing, strolls and capturing spectacular sunsets this time of year. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a must-visit. Guests can interact with rescued dolphins, and the area is also known for being home to America's top-ranked beach.

TPG tip : Stay near all the action at Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach. Rates start from $256 or 30,000 Wyndham Rewards points per night.

October in Austin is the perfect month to visit as the city is filled with events that showcase the city's dynamic spirit.

For example, the renowned Austin City Limits festival takes center stage at Zilker Park over two weekends — Oct. 6-8 and Oct.13-15. The event features an eclectic mix of music, art and culture. Simultaneously, the 12th edition of the F1 Grand Prix adds to the excitement, drawing racing enthusiasts to the Circuit of the Americas.

Beyond these major attractions, Austin's neighborhoods come alive with unique shops, eateries and cultural gems (all without summer heat), making October the perfect time to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings.

TPG tip : The Bunkhouse group's Carpenter Hotel is right near the action at Zilker Park. Rates start from $350 or 23,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Related reading:

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• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
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Fall travel: the 10 best places to visit in October

The best places to visit in October are all about vibrant fall foliage and spectacular celebrations . It is, of course, also the month of Halloween – and in the US in particular, that’s a serious reason to party .

October is shoulder season, which means flight and hotel prices have dropped from the summer and the crowds have thinned out – magic. It also means many of the less mainstream destinations start to wind down with business closing for a post-summer break. Here’s my pick of the ten best places to visit in the USA and Europe in October.

• Klamath County, Oregon
• Albuquerque, New Mexico
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Salem, Massachusetts
• Asheville, Carolina
• San Francisco, California
• Annapolis, Maryland
• Prague, Czech Republic
• Puglia, Italy
• Vienna, Austria

Best places to visit in October across the US

1. klamath county, oregon.

Learn more: Klamath Falls travel guide

Tiny Klamath Falls draws tourists year-round but really comes to life in October as one of the best fall vacations.

The million-strong influx of waterfowl to the Klamath Basin is a spectacular start to the annual bird migration at the start of the month. But it’s when the eagles, peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks, and other raptors swoop in that things dial up to 11. In total some 350 bird species will make the area their home, making it a magnet for twitchers from around the globe.

The sprawling forests and evocative landscapes of Crater Lake National Park are just 60 miles north of the city, magic for fall sightseeing and hiking. If volcanology is your thing, the Lava Beds National Monument is a paradise of lava tubes, strange rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and Native American rock art . 

On the morning of October 14th, 2023, something extra special also comes to Klamath Falls – a three-minute-and-23-second ring of fire (or annular) solar eclipse. To celebrate the town is holding EclipseFest23 from October 10th-15th with camping, live music, food, and drink for umbraphiles and ordinary folk alike . 

2. Albuquerque, New Mexico

Learn more: Albuquerque travel guide

Continuing the theme of looking to the skies for exultation, Albuquerque hosts its huge International Balloon Fiesta in October. For nine days from October 7th, hundreds of colorful and strangely shaped hot air balloons take flight against the spectacular backdrop of the Sandia Mountains . 

From the early serenity of the Dawn Patrol to the spectacle of the Mass Ascension , there’s plenty to see and do. Enjoy balloon rides , watch balloon rodeos and races, and stay until the evening for the showpiece Balloon Glow, where balloon burners turn the night sky to fire . There’s camping and glamping, cultural performances and live music, local eats, and lots more to do. 

And that’s before you even explore the lovely Albuquerque Old Town or ride the Aerial Tramway 10,000 feet up to the peak of Mount Sandia .

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

Learn more: New Orleans travel guide

“Without the blues, there would be no jazz or R&B.” So goes the mantra of the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival , a celebration of all things Big Easy held over the long weekend of October 13th to 15th. 

The lively three-day event showcases exceptional blues music and drool-inducing barbecues from the best pitmasters the US can muster. Make it the highlight of a longer October visit to really make the most of this unique city set on the mouth of the Mississippi . 

The month’s warm weathe r and low rainfall make it an ideal time to exploit its best features. Bar hop Bourbon Street, toast street performers in Jackson Square, and tap your feet to the best jazz on Frenchman Street . And if you’re there come the end of the month, few places do Halloween quite like New Orleans – just don’t forget your costume .

4. Salem, Massachusetts 

Learn more: Salem travel guide

Founded in 1626, Salem may be one of the oldest towns in the US but its infamy comes from the 1692 Witch Trials . October is the month to visit, as Salem goes all out for Halloween with its month-long Haunted Happenings festival.

Expect haunted houses, historical reenactments, elaborate costumes, grand parades and witch-themed everything . With half a million visitors each year, the town is as busy as it gets, but for celebrations like this I think that just adds to the atmosphere. And if it’s too much, consider staying in nearby Boston , a 30-minute train ride away on the Newbury/Rockport line.

Book tickets to the Witch House and creepy (if dated) Salem Witch Museum with its memorial to the 19 victims so gruesomely and pointlessly hanged. Away from the witchy fun, Salem is a town with a long and proud maritime history well worth exploring. The impressive Salem Maritime National Historic Site with nine acres of attractions spread along the Salem waterfront, including a tall ship, is a wonderful way to spend a fall day.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

Learn more: Asheville travel guide

The mountain city of Asheville is engulfed in a panoply of colors come October, making it one of the best fall vacations in the USA. Vibrant reds, oranges and golds transform the landscape . The many deciduous tree species covering the slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains that surround the city put on one of nature’s greatest shows .

Immerse yourself in it and breathe deep the clear mountain air on the many hikes that snake their way into the wilderness. Crabtree Falls and Rainbow Falls add thunderous waterfalls to the mix. Pisgah National Forest and Dupont Forest are highlights, as are the views from Craggy Gardens and Looking Glass Rock Overlook .

Leaf peepers should make for the drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Don’t forget your camera as dozens of scenic viewpoints deliver crushingly beautiful views of those fall colors in all their grandeur. 

6. San Francisco, California

Learn more: San Francisco travel guide

The turn of fall sees clearing skies above San Francisco , its famed fog receding to reveal the city’s beauty. Natural and manmade wonders seldom look better – the towering redwoods of Muir Woods and the Golden Gate Bridge seeming to float above the Bay.

October also sees the Fleet Week celebration roll into town for nine days from October 2nd. Spread across the city and celebrating the US Navy and marine forces with plenty of pageantry. 

There’s a parade of ships and military demonstrations, live music, and food festivals. The eye-popping airshow from the US Navy Blue Angels paints an aerial tapestry between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. 

If you are more of a foodie, two days after the end of Fleet Week there is the tenth anniversary of the La Cocina San Francisco Street Food Festival. Two days, 50-plus Bay Area chefs and a whole lot of eating and drinking make SF one of the best places to visit in October for sure.

7. Annapolis, Maryland

Learn more: Annapolis travel guide

If you’re heading to Anne Arundel County on the outskirts of Annapolis any time between late August to late October, you’d be wise to throw on your finest 16th-century threads . 

You’ll find yourself at the Maryland Renaissance Festival , an entire English village dedicated to a year in the life of Henry VIII . 2023 celebrates the year 1536 and the start of Henry’s descent into madness and malevolence played out in medieval street shows and improvisations. Shop handicrafts, feast on turkey legs and frothy beers , and enjoy a spot of jousting while Henry’s demise plays out around you. Let merriment abound!

Annapolis itself is lovely in October. Teeming with historic buildings and a fantastic harbor , its rich colonial history plays out perfectly for some haunted ghost tours and, if you need a little Dutch courage to embolden you, haunted pub crawls . 

Best places to visit in Europe in October

8. prague, czech republic.

Learn more: Prague travel guide

Arguably Europe’s prettiest capital city , Prague sees days shorten and cool after the giddy summer months. That fall atmosphere washes over the city and sparks its cultural calendar back into life.

Taking advantage of the earlier evenings, the Signal Festival lights up the city with luminous light shows and mind-blowing multimedia installations . Crowds clear from the historic Charles Bridge, making a walk across towards the gothic splendor of the skyline a pleasure rather than a chore. 

And the city’s theaters and concert venues resonate to the boom and shrill of operas and classical concerts. There are many to choose from but the intricate Klementinum Mirror Chapel, where Mozart once played the organ, is not to be missed.

9. Puglia, Italy

Occupying the heel of Italy’s “boot”, Puglia is south enough to remain relatively warm well into October. Even if the weather’s not perfect, there’s plenty to do – or more importantly, eat. While Puglia is one of the best places to visit in Italy in October, there’s always somewhere great to visit in Italy all year round .

October is when the olive oil harvest happens and Puglia is a magical place to see thousand-year-old olive trees still delivering the culinary lifeblood of Italy. Known as the “gold of Puglia,” get your fill with a stay on an olive farm like Masseria Il Frantoio and join the harvest , with plenty of food and wine thrown in for good measure.

No visit to Puglia is complete without a trip to Alberobello . The UNESCO World Heritage town and commune is famed for its whitewashed, conical roofed trulli (stone huts) and is incredibly atmospheric to wander around. 

10. Vienna, Austria

Learn more: Vienna travel guide

The world’s most livable city is my pick for the best place to visit in Europe in October for culture vultures. 

Kicking off on October 7th, the evocatively named Long Night of Museums sees more than 100 cultural institutions throw open their doors until 01:00. A single ticket will get you into them all (or as many as you can cram in) with many putting on special shows , events and exhibits. Join the cultural throng wandering from museum to gallery and soak in the unique atmosphere – my favorite night in Vienna .

Just as cultured and quite a bit glitzier, from October 19th until month end the city is gripped with film fever thanks to the Viennale . Celebrating its 61st year in 2023, Vienna’s international film festival takes over cinemas across the historic center . Showing more than 300 films from most imaginable genres, expect big international premieres too.

Find more of the best places to visit in 2023

With fall colors and falling prices after the summer rush, October is undoubtedly a great month to travel , especially for epic fall road trips . Seriously though, is there ever actually a bad month to travel in? If you’re anything like me that’s a hard no. 

In which case you might want to take a look at our travel guides for the best places to visit in September or, if you’re planning ahead, November and December . Or if you’re looking for where is hot in September , October , November or December, KAYAK has you covered too.

Wherever you plan to go, find cheap flights , trains and car rental as well as wonderful places to stay . And naturally, don’t miss the KAYAK newsletter for the latest guides and inspiration.

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14 Best Places to Visit in October (USA + International)

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What’s great about traveling in October is that you have a wide range of experiences and festivities to choose from, and amazing weather to go with it! That’s why I am so excited to share this list of best places to visit in October.

In a lot of places, it’s the season for layers, and (like September ) you can still benefit from the off-season without holiday crowds pouring in. Read on for my recommendations!

Fall leaves are at their peak in many destinations and harvest is in full swing. That means high season in places like Vermont and California’s wine country. If you’re interested in a destination in the southern hemisphere, just be aware that it’s the start of peak summer season.

But in other places, you can enjoy the shoulder season, where crowds have thinned out and hotel rates are lower. Remember, the farther north you go, the more wintery the weather will get. And in the south, the days are starting to finally cool down a bit.

The challenge for this time of year is really just picking the best destination for you! So, scroll down for all the details of what I think are the best places to visit in October.

Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Here are some of the best places to vacation in October in the United States

Oregon might be one of the best places to visit in October for leaf peeping. The state is full of national forests and it’s one of the top places to see fall foliage in the USA.

There’s just something about seeing the Columbia River Gorge surrounded by the reds and golds of fall. If you stick to the coast or the southern part of this PNW state, you can enjoy amazing fall foliage up until the end of October.

Plus, there are some of the best hiking trails in the country here. Head to the Siuslaw National Forest for 26 miles of trails with ocean views from piney forests.

2. Orlando, FL

Plan a getaway from Orlando near the end of October for all kinds of festive events at EPCOT  and Disney World, as well as Universal Studios. By this time, the wet season has ended and you can enjoy nice weather in the 70s for all your tourist activities.

While EPCOT doesn’t do Halloween-themed events, its annual Food and Wine Festival is still going strong. Late October is a lot of fun in Orlando theme parks: there are all kinds of Halloween-themed activities, merchandise, and treats.

If you prefer warm weather, head to a southwestern state like Utah, which contains 5 of the most popular desert national parks . It’s already shoulder season in the desert but there’s still time to enjoy all kinds of activities at Arches National Park .

During the summer, the heat in Utah can be overbearing. This can limit what time of day you head outdoors. By October the weather is perfect for outdoor adventures with cool nights and warm days, so you can take advantage of all the daylight hours!

4. Virginia

I think one of the best places to visit in October is the Blue Ridge Mountains. More specifically, one of my favorite leaf-peeping trips is Shenandoah National Park . The foliage peaks in mid-October making it the perfect time to leaf peep while enjoying the different fall activities around the area.

You can enjoy Shenandoah’s many outdoor activities that are still open in the fall, like hiking or horseback riding. Or take a scenic ride down Skyline Drive. You can also take advantage of cooler days and explore the little historic towns all around the national park.

5. New Jersey

In October, you can take the opportunity to hike the 75 miles of the Appalachian Trail that runs through Northern New Jersey. The trail is pretty easy because it’s flat and clearly marked, though it’s unpaved and runs through all kinds of terrain. You might catch a glimpse of migrating geese and enjoy all the colors of changing leaves as you hike.

New Jersey is also great for hayrides and all the different fall festivals you can find there. Snyder’s Farm basically hosts a fall festival the entire month of October with hayrides, activities, and a huge pumpkin patch. And Ort Farms has a pick-your-own/fall festival pass that includes hayrides and the corn maze.

6. Pennsylvania

October means great fall backpacking in rural Pennsylvania. Bushkill Falls made my list of the most scenic fall hiking destinations in the USA. You can also find a myriad of annual wine festivals across the state this month as well!

Some of the best hayrides in the country can also be found at fall festivals on farms in Pennsylvania. While some function simply as transport from the parking lot to the pumpkin patch, others are more exciting!

Try Pennsylvania farms like Harvest Valley Farm in Gibsonia or Grim’s Orchard & Family Farm in Breinigsville. Or visit Shady Brook Farms for Fall Fest: access apple and pumpkin picking, a cornfield maze, games, Halloween light shows, campfires, and more.

Couples looking to bypass family-themed fun and rent a cozy getaway instead will find the Poconos is a romantic weekend trip near Philadelphia .

7. Salem, MA

If spooky vibes and haunted houses/history are your things, you might love a trip to Salem, Massachusetts. I’ll be honest—hauntings and witch trial history are not my forte, but I do know if you want to experience one of the biggest haunted festivals in the country (or world) Salem’s the place to go!

Vermont had to make my list of the best places to visit in October! It’s the furthest north I recommend going this late in the season. Even in Vermont, the fall foliage peaks by the middle of the month.

A must-do is a scenic fall foliage drive. For a nice hour-long drive, start in Bennington and head east on Route 9, also called the Molly Stark Byway. It’ll take you through the Green Mountain National Forest and small towns in the southern countryside of Vermont.

Take a breathtaking gondola ride at Stowe Mountain Resort and ride high above the fall canopy to the top of Mount Mansfield or enjoy a beer-tasting tour in Stowe, Vermont.

Best Countries To Visit In October

Here Are Top Places To Visit Around The World In The Month Of October

9. Thailand  

For shoulder season prices, plan a trip to Thailand in October. It’s the tail end of monsoon season with way less rain, so the cities are more active. It’s still pretty warm with highs in the 90s and lows in the 70s at night. You can enjoy slightly less humid mornings and get out to see the cities.

Because there are still a lot of rainy days, October is best for trips to cities like Chiang Mai or Bangkok. You can do some sightseeing when it’s nice, and when the rain comes there are lots of things to do indoors (especially Thailand massage, which I did nearly every other day!)

In Bangkok, there are historic temples and the Grand Palace, as well as amazing restaurants and shopping. You can see all of the city’s highlights on a city tour . Chiang Mai has the popular Loi Krathong and Yee Peng Festivals and a huge wellness culture.

10. Morocco

If you aren’t a fan of summer heat, but you’ve been eyeing a trip to Morocco, October is a great option. I loved visiting in October! While we still had many hot days, it was a comfortable heat in the 80’s. I suggest dressing for warm days and bringing layers for when the nights cool down.

October in Morocco is still the high season, but you can still enjoy the desert, mountains and coastal cities without overwhelming crowds. Try this Sahara Desert tour to travel between Marrakech and Fez for an adventure.

Summer prices and summer heat might have deterred you from visiting the Italian Riviera or wining and dining in Tuscany. With cooler weather and shoulder season prices, here’s your chance to take advantage of this beautiful country’s warm hospitality! Just keep in mind that you’ll still have a lot of company because everyone loves Italy in October.

Especially in Tuscany, you can enjoy the changing colors of the vines as the harvest ripens for gathering. In fact, October is also the best time to enjoy food and wine festivals across the country.

In Rome, crowds have relaxed a bit and you can really enjoy the historic sights with the cooler temperatures of fall. Go to the Colosseum and tour the arena floor. Or head to the Italian Riviera where there are great coastal hiking and seaside villages to explore.

October in Greece is a great experience! The weather is lovely, but the crowds have significantly died down. Come early in the month to enjoy the most dry days.

It’ll be a little too cool for swimming, but clear blue skies mean you can relax on the beach or enjoy a boat trip to hot springs or go island hopping . October is a great time to explore Athens on foot, camp in the Pindos mountains, or climb Mount Olympus. 

Greece in October is harvest season for not only grapes and olives, but also nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. Visit a farm, take a cooking class, or try fresh olive oil or baklava.

13. Germany

People head to Germany in October for a variety of reasons. Ironically, Oktoberfest often takes place at the end of September! But it crosses over into the first week of October too. 

Plus, October is the festival season with different fall fairs and wine festivals varying from town to town. Mid-October brings the Festival of Lights to Berlin.

Fall is shoulder season in Germany, so soak up the lower prices and thinner crowds. It’s also pretty chilly, so make sure to bring sweaters. If you plan on spending some time in Bavaria, it can even get close to freezing! 

In my mind, it’s always a good time to visit France! I’ve been visiting since I was a teenager. Autumn in France is lovely, and a great reprieve from summer’s high season and hot weather (sans air conditioner). Visit Paris, Alsace, and the South of France for some of the country’s most prized destinations, or get a taste of Disney flair Parisienne style at Disneyland Paris!

More Fall Travel Ideas

• Best places to visit in September
• Best places to visit in November

Enjoy these Best Places to Travel in October!

When you’re looking for the best places to visit in October, think about what you want to experience. October in many places means there’s excitement in the air as everyone gets ready for the holiday season.

But it can also mean finicky weather.

For instance, if you go too far north, the weather may be too cold and you’ll miss the peak foliage. To avoid hurricane season, note the Caribbean and other tropical areas are still subject to monsoon seasons during this time. I’d avoid it.

Whatever experience you prefer, I hope you found inspiration on my list of places to travel in October!

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Trump Media stock soars 59% after Truth Social parent adopts 'DJT' ticker symbol

• Trump Media and Technology Group soared as much as 59% on Tuesday after it went public via a SPAC merger.
• The Truth Social parent began trading under the "DJT" ticker symbol on Tuesday.
• Former President Donald Trump owns about 58% of the social media company, a stake that is now worth billions. 

Trump Media and Technology Group soared as much as 59% on Tuesday after it officially went public via a SPAC merger and adopted the ticker symbol "DJT."

The stock-price surge is a boon to former President Donald Trump's net worth, as he owns about a 58% stake in the company that according to Bloomberg is worth more than $4 billion.

Trump now has a total net worth of about $6.5 billion, though the bulk of that wealth is on paper as Trump is unable to sell his shares in Truth Social until a six-month lock-up period expires . Still, there's a possibility that he gets a waiver from the company's board , which consists of close allies like his son Donald Trump Jr. and former Rep. Devin Nunes .

Trump Media and Technology Group now trades on the Nasdaq exchange. Former Congressman Devin Nunes is the CEO of the company, while Trump has stepped down as Chairman of the company as he ramps up his 2024 campaign for the Presidency.

Truth Social competes with Elon Musk's social media company X, and it has turned into Trump's preferred online venue to share updates after he was banned from major platforms following the January 6 storming of the US Capitol.  

Shares of the Digital World SPAC have surged in anticipation of the completed business merger with Truth Social following more than two years of blockades from the SEC and shareholder votes. Year-to-date gains for the SPAC that has since turned into Trump Media and Technology Group hit 354% on Tuesday. 

This isn't the first time Trump has used his initials as the ticker symbol for one of his publicly traded companies. Trump used the same ticker symbol for Trump Hotels and Casino Resorts when it went public in 1995. That company eventually filed for bankruptcy. 

Digital World Acquisition turned into a meme-stock after the company announced its intent to merge with the former President's social media company, with a trading frenzy sending the stock to as high as $175 per share in October 2021. 

Digital World stock now trades at about $72 per share, representing a decline of about 59% from its record high.

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Middle East crisis — explained

The conflict between Israel and Palestinians — and other groups in the Middle East — goes back decades. These stories provide context for current developments and the history that led up to them.

With war in Gaza, Israel faces new pressure to draft the ultra-Orthodox into service

Jennifer Ludden

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men pray at a yeshiva in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21. The war in Gaza has prompted calls for Israel to end military exemptions for full-time religious students. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men pray at a yeshiva in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21. The war in Gaza has prompted calls for Israel to end military exemptions for full-time religious students.

A core tension in Israeli society has grown more urgent since the Hamas attack on Israel last October: Whether to draft the ultra-Orthodox into military service.

Full-time religious students have been broadly exempt since the nation's founding 76 years ago. A sky-high birth rate means the share who don't serve has grown larger over the decades. Meanwhile, the Oct. 7 attack that killed 1,200 people — and Israel's response to it — has led to both a mass mobilization and shortage of soldiers.

Pressure to solve this disconnect has intensified a battle that both the ultra-Orthodox community and the military see as existential.

And the clock is ticking. Facing a deadline set by the nation's Supreme Court, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is supposed to present a military draft plan by the end of the month. He could either extend the exemption, or embrace growing calls for change. Either way, he faces opposition that threatens his ruling coalition.

On a recent evening in the city of Bnei Brak, a center of Israeli ultra-Orthodox life, 23-year-old Shmuel Hezi was defensive about the debate. He and other young men in black coats and broad brim black hats were gathered for evening prayer outside the prestigious Chazon Ish religious seminary, or yeshiva.

The media seems to forget, he says, but after the Hamas attack, the Haredim, as Orthodox Jews are called in Hebrew, did their part.

"We were the first responders, going in the ambulances and helping to identify bodies," he says.

It's true that many ultra-Orthodox did perform these jobs . But the idea of enlisting in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) — what's known in Israel as the People's Army? He rejects it out of hand.

Israeli soldiers gather at a staging area in southern Israel before entering Gaza in December. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is supposed to present a military draft plan in coming days that could either extend exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox, or embrace growing calls for change. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Israeli soldiers gather at a staging area in southern Israel before entering Gaza in December. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is supposed to present a military draft plan in coming days that could either extend exemptions for the ultra-Orthodox, or embrace growing calls for change.

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men cross a street in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21. Full-time religious students have been broadly exempt from military service in Israel since the nation's founding 76 years ago. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men cross a street in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21. Full-time religious students have been broadly exempt from military service in Israel since the nation's founding 76 years ago.

"Let's turn the tables," he says. "If the army was all religious people, would you, a secular person, send your son? No, you would not."

In fact, after the attack a couple thousand ultra-Orthodox did sign up for military service. And polls showed more Haredim support for the military. But for many Israelis, who overwhelmingly support ending the exemption, it's not nearly enough.

Since the surprise Hamas assault, Israel has been fighting on three fronts: A punishing military campaign in Gaza that has killed more than 32,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health; stepped up battles in the West Bank and mutual attacks along its northern border with the Iranian-backed group Hezbollah. To support all this, the Israeli military has called up hundreds of thousands of reservists, drafted others early and pushed for longer rotations.

"The people that are serving will now have to do twice or three times more. That's crazy. It will not happen," says Ron Scherf, co-founder of Brothers and Sisters in Arms. The group of reservists has held regular protests calling for an end to the broad ultra-Orthodox exemption.

Scherf served just outside Gaza for a month after the October attack, and says he was most recently called up for reserve duty two weeks ago. His 20-year-old son is now doing his mandatory service.

"A minister in the government who is willing to send my son to his death, and his son doing nothing," he says. "Who can understand that?"

Scherf's group has three demands: Everyone must enlist; waivers should apply to everyone; and both rules must be enforced.

Ron Scherf, co-founder of Brothers and Sisters in Arms, sits for a portrait at his home in Tel Aviv on March 18. The group of reservists has held regular protests calling for an end to the ultra-Orthodox exemption. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Ron Scherf, co-founder of Brothers and Sisters in Arms, sits for a portrait at his home in Tel Aviv on March 18. The group of reservists has held regular protests calling for an end to the ultra-Orthodox exemption.

Ron Scherf (second from right) takes part in a protest in Tel Aviv opposing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for a deal to release the hostages still held in Gaza, on March 23. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Ron Scherf (second from right) takes part in a protest in Tel Aviv opposing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and calling for a deal to release the hostages still held in Gaza, on March 23.

Critics say too many people are now exempt

The ultra-Orthodox military exemption goes back to Israel's 1948 founding in the wake of the Holocaust, when protecting the remnant of religious scholars was considered key for a Jewish state. At the time it only applied to some 400 people.

But Haredi families have on average six or seven children, and that birth rate makes them the fastest growing segment of Israel's population. They now make up more than a quarter of enlistment age men, according to Yonahan Plesner, president of the Israel Democracy Institute.

"There are huge implications on Israeli democracy, in multiple dimensions," he says.

For one thing, to get out of military service you can't hold a job. That's seen as a drag on the economy and a growing financial burden for the rest of the nation. What's more, Haredi political power has grown along with its population, and has become crucial to Netanyahu's coalition.

"[Netanyahu's] entire political career, there was a sort of over-arching directive: Preserve the alliance with the ultra-Orthodox at all costs, because this alliance preserves his grip over power," says Plesner.

For ultra-Orthodox leaders the fight is existential. The word Haredi means one who trembles before God. They reject engagement with the modern world and fear that exposing young men to it through the military will end their way of life.

But in some corners, change is coming, slowly.

Rabbi Yonatan Reiss, who co-founded Yeshiva Chedvata, stands for a portrait in the study hall at the yeshiva in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20. The school aims to be a bridge between the ultra-Orthodox and secular military culture. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Rabbi Yonatan Reiss, who co-founded Yeshiva Chedvata, stands for a portrait in the study hall at the yeshiva in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20. The school aims to be a bridge between the ultra-Orthodox and secular military culture.

Students attend a lecture from a visiting rabbi in the study hall at Yeshiva Chedvata in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Students attend a lecture from a visiting rabbi in the study hall at Yeshiva Chedvata in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20.

There are options for religious men who want to serve

On a recent sunny day, a group of young men in black pants and white t-shirts played a boisterous game of soccer on a grassy campus 45 minutes south of Tel Aviv. They were on a break between classes at Yeshiva Chedvata, which seeks to be a bridge between the ultra-Orthodox and secular military culture.

"As the Haredim grows and grows, there are a lot of young people who don't want to study the Torah all the time," says Rabbi Yonatan Reiss, who co-founded this yeshiva seven years ago, essentially for people like himself.

After high school, instead of religious study he went to Brazil, created a business and stayed several years. When he returned to Israel, the military tracked him down and forced him to enlist. Reiss says that's when he realized religious young men were not prepared for military service, or other jobs.

So here, and at two other yeshivas he runs, there are classes in math, English, and computer science. All students join the military, and use the skills they've learned. Rabbi Reiss says the Hamas attack in October only confirmed the need for this.

"The entire Israeli society knew what to do and where they had to go serve," he says. "But many ultra-Orthodox were embarrassed, wondering 'What can we do?'"

Binyamin Savrasov, 19, a student at Yeshiva Chedvata, sits for a portrait in a classroom at the yeshiva on March 20. "If it's not you, it's your brothers or your cousins or someone who's not as religious as you. So you're just being selfish," he says about serving. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Binyamin Savrasov, 19, a student at Yeshiva Chedvata, sits for a portrait in a classroom at the yeshiva on March 20. "If it's not you, it's your brothers or your cousins or someone who's not as religious as you. So you're just being selfish," he says about serving.

David Tvito, 21, a student at Yeshiva Chedvata, stands for a portrait at the yeshiva in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

David Tvito, 21, a student at Yeshiva Chedvata, stands for a portrait at the yeshiva in Gan Yavne, Israel, on March 20.

Outside a classroom, 21-year-old David Tvito says after studying the Torah for six years he felt he wasn't doing as well as others, so decided to make a change. At first his parents were disappointed, but they've come around. They like that "I'm really succeeding in it, and I'm getting good grades," he says.

Binyamin Savrasov, 19, says he's not from the most religious family, and actually has two older brothers who served in the army. But it didn't go over well when their ultra-Orthodox community found out they were enlisting.

"Some neighbors were kind of mean to us and like, you know, throw eggs on our cars," he says.

He's confident he can keep his religion while in the military, and thinks it's only right to enlist. "If it's not you, it's your brothers or your cousins or someone who's not as religious as you. So you're just being selfish," he says.

The stigma around military service may fade slowly

Nechumi Yaffe of Tel Aviv University is ultra-Orthodox herself, and says there's been a steep social price for those who join the Israeli military.

"Going to the army will damage their ability to marry," she says. "It will damage their relationship in the family."

She believes it will be good for the community to "normalize" as more people are drafted. But she thinks Israelis don't understand how challenging that process may be for young men who've been so socially isolated, with little to no education on human rights.

Israeli soldiers walk through the Machane Yehuda market in Jerusalem on March 21. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Israeli soldiers walk through the Machane Yehuda market in Jerusalem on March 21.

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men shop for vegetables at a store in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Ultra-Orthodox Jewish men shop for vegetables at a store in Bnei Brak, Israel, on March 21.

"I think the Israeli society should ask itself, actually, do you want to see them in the army?" she says. "You know, [Israelis] want to see blood. They want to see them in uniform, shooting. I don't think it's a great idea."

She suggests starting some off as truck drivers or cooks, while they adapt to a secular world.

Another challenge, she says, is that despite warmer attitudes toward the military since the Hamas assault, people returning to the community after service still face stigma.

Back in Bnei Brak, Mordechai Porat, 36, is one of the ultra-Orthodox who volunteered for duty last October.

"I felt like a lion in a cage. I had to do something," he says.

He's a social worker, and since November has been providing therapy at a nearby military base. Porat's father told him to never wear his green fatigues in the city, so he changes back into a black jacket before coming home. He makes sure to keep his military dog tag hidden underneath his collar.

Mordechai Porat, 36, an ultra-Orthodox Jewish man who volunteered for duty last October, stands for a portrait while wearing his dog tags in Bnei Brak on March 21. Tamir Kalifa for NPR hide caption

Mordechai Porat, 36, an ultra-Orthodox Jewish man who volunteered for duty last October, stands for a portrait while wearing his dog tags in Bnei Brak on March 21.

But even with this low profile, he says he's paid a price. "My [kindergarten age] son has still not been accepted into the community school," he says.

Porat thinks most ultra-Orthodox will never join the military. And he understands Israelis have run out of patience over the exemption, but says they need to be patient a while longer. He's sure more and more people will consider enlisting over time.

"But if people are forced into it, they'll just push back," he says.

Alon Avital and Itay Stern contributed reporting for this story.

• Anniston/Gadsden

Military abortion travel policy that sparked Tuberville blockade was used 12 times in 7 months

• Published: Mar. 29, 2024, 6:50 a.m.

Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., waits before former President Donald Trump speaks at Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster, N.J., Tuesday, June 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) AP

• The Associated Press

A controversial military policy that allows service members to be reimbursed for travel if they or a family member have to go out of state for reproductive health care — including abortions — was used just 12 times from June to December last year, the Pentagon said Tuesday.

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin instituted the policy after the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 to ensure that troops who were assigned to states where abortions or other types of health care such as IVF treatment were no longer provided could still access those services.

The policy sparked outrage in some circles and led Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville to hold up hundreds of military promotions for months in a failed attempt to get the Pentagon to rescind it. Tuberville ultimately withdrew all of his holds in December.

The travel policy was used by service members or their dependents 12 times during that seven-month period at a cost of roughly $40,000, Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh said Tuesday. The money covered lodging, meals and transportation for out-of-state travel to receive care.

The Pentagon said it did not have data on the first five months of 2023 because the services did not establish a way to track those uses when the policy was first implemented.

The policy does not cover the cost of abortions, and it’s not clear how many of the 12 trips were for abortions or other type of reproductive health care, such as IVF treatment. Singh said the Pentagon would not have a specific breakdown of what services were sought by the service members or their dependents due to medical privacy issues.

Under federal law, Defense Department medical facilities can perform abortions only when the life of the pregnant person is at risk or in cases of rape or incest, and those instances have been extremely rare. According to the department, there were 91 abortions performed in military medical facilities between 2016 and 2021.

For months, many of the military officers directly affected by Tuberville’s holds declined to speak out, for fear any comments would be seen as political. But as the pressures on their lives and the lives of the officers serving under them increased, they began to speak about how the uncertainty surrounding their next move was hurting not only them but their children and spouses.

They talked about how some of their most talented junior officers were going to get out of the military because of the instability they saw around them, and about how having to perform multiple roles because of so many vacancies was putting enormous additional stress on an already overworked military community.

The issue came to a head when U.S. Marine Corps Commandant Gen. Eric Smith suffered a heart attack in October, just two days after he’d talked about the stress of the holds at a military conference. Smith fully returned to his duties only in the last few weeks.

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‘Ecocide in Gaza’: does scale of environmental destruction amount to a war crime?

Exclusive: Satellite analysis revealed to the Guardian shows farms devastated and nearly half of the territory’s trees razed. Alongside mounting air and water pollution, experts says Israel’s onslaught on Gaza’s ecosystems has made the area unlivable

I n a dilapidated warehouse in Rafah, Soha Abu Diab is living with her three young daughters and more than 20 other family members. They have no running water, no fuel and are surrounded by running sewage and waste piling up.

Like the rest of Gaza’s residents, they fear the air they breathe is heavy with pollutants and that the water carries disease. Beyond the city streets lie razed orchards and olive groves, and farmland destroyed by bombs and bulldozers.

“This life is not life,” says Abu Diab, who was displaced from Gaza City. “There is pollution everywhere – in the air, in the water we bathe in, in the water we drink, in the food we eat, in the area around us.”

For her family and thousands of others, the human cost of Israel’s invasion of Gaza, launched after the Hamas attack on 7 October, is being compounded by an environmental crisis.

The full extent of the damage in Gaza has not yet been documented, but analysis of satellite imagery provided to the Guardian shows the destruction of about 38-48% of tree cover and farmland.

Olive groves and farms have been reduced to packed earth; soil and groundwater have been contaminated by munitions and toxins; the sea is choked with sewage and waste; the air polluted by smoke and particulate matter.

Researchers and environmental organisations say the destruction will have enormous effects on Gaza’s ecosystems and biodiversity. The scale and potential long-term impact of the damage have led to calls for it to be regarded as “ecocide” and investigated as a possible war crime.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) says it follows international law and attempts to limit damage to agricultural areas and the environment.

“The IDF does not intentionally harm agricultural land and seeks to prevent environmental impact absent operational necessity,” it told the Guardian.

‘Only soil left’

Satellite imagery, photos and video footage from the ground show how Gaza’s farmland, orchards and olive groves have been destroyed by the war.

He Yin, an assistant professor of geography at Kent State University in the US, who studied the damage to agricultural land in Syria during the 2011 civil war, analysed satellite imagery showing that up to 48% of Gaza’s tree cover had been lost or damaged between 7 October and 21 March.

As well as direct destruction from the military onslaught, the lack of fuel has led to people in Gaza having to cut down trees wherever they can find them to burn for cooking or heating.

“It’s whole orchards gone, only soil left; you don’t see a single thing,” Yin says.

Independent satellite analysis by Forensic Architecture (FA), a London-based research group that investigates state violence, found similar results.

Before 7 October, farms and orchards covered about 170 sq km (65 sq miles), or 47% of Gaza’s total land area. By the end of February, FA estimates from satellite data that Israeli military activity had destroyed more than 65 sq km, or 38% of that land.

As well as cultivated land, more than 7,500 greenhouses formed a vital part of the territory’s agricultural infrastructure.

Almost a third have been destroyed entirely, according to FA’s analysis, ranging from up to 90% in the north of Gaza to about 40% around Khan Younis.

‘What’s left is devastation’

Samaneh Moafi, FA’s assistant director of research, describes the destruction as systematic.

Researchers used satellite imagery to document a repeated process in multiple locations, she says: after initial damage from aerial bombardment, ground troops arrived and dismantled greenhouses completely, while tractors, tanks and vehicles uprooted orchards and fields of crops.

“What’s left is devastation,” says Moafi. “An area that is no longer livable.”

FA’s investigation examined one farm in rast Jabalia, close to Gaza’s north-east border, cultivated by the Abu Suffiyeh family for the past decade. The family has since been displaced to the south. Their farm has been destroyed and orchards uprooted entirely, replaced by military earthworks with a new road carved through it.

“There is almost nothing to recognise there,” says one member of the family. “No traces of the land we knew. They totally erased it .

“It is now the same as it was before: desert … There is no single tree there. No traces of prior life. If I was to go there, I wouldn’t be able to recognise it.”

Israel has indicated it may attempt to make some of its demolitions permanent, with some officials proposing the creation of a “ buffer zone ” along the boundary between Gaza and Israel, where much of the agricultural land is located.

Some demolitions have already made way for Israeli military infrastructure. The open-source investigators Bellingcat say about 1,740 hectares (4,300 acres) of land appear to have been cleared in the area south of Gaza City where a new road, referred to by Israel as Route 749, has appeared, running across the entire width of the territory.

The Israeli military says the route was a “military necessity” built to “establish an operational foothold in the area and allow the passage of forces and logistical equipment”.

An IDF spokesperson said: “Hamas often operates from within orchards, fields, and agricultural land.” They added that: “The IDF is committed to mitigating civilian and environmental harm during operational activity.”

With trees razed, even the soil that remains is threatened by heavy bombing and demolitions. According to the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), heavy bombardment of populated areas can contaminate soil and groundwater in the long term – both through the munitions themselves and as collapsed buildings release hazardous materials such as asbestos, industrial chemicals and fuel into the surrounding air, soil and groundwater.

Since the beginning of the war, Israel has dropped tens of thousands of bombs on Gaza, with satellite analysis from January indicating that between 50% and 62% of all buildings had been damaged or destroyed.

As of January 2024, the UNEP estimated that bombing had left 22.9m tonnes of debris and hazardous material, with much of the rubble containing human remains.

“This is an extremely large amount of debris, especially for such a small area,” it says. “Components of the debris and rubble can contain harmful substances like asbestos, heavy metals, fire contaminants, unexploded ordnance, and hazardous chemicals.”

Piles of waste and poisoned water

The area around the warehouse that Abu Diab rents with her family is a wasteland. Sewage leaks from a bombed-out home nearby and waste has piled up, as it has everywhere near the southern town of Rafah, which now hosts much of Gaza’s population.

“The sewage and waste around the house are a major tragedy. Cats and dogs are drawn to the waste, then spread it along the streets,” she says.

The continuing conflict and siege conditions have resulted in the total collapse of Gaza’s already fragile civil infrastructure, including waste disposal, sewage treatment, fuel supplies and water management .

Wim Zwijnenburg, who investigates the impact of conflicts on the environment for the Dutch peace organisation PAX , says: “War generally collapses everything. In Gaza, it’s making people exposed to additional risks from pollution, from polluted groundwater. It’s the destruction of anything the civilian population depends on.”

Gaza’s municipality has listed the damage to infrastructure , noting that 70,000 tonnes of solid waste had accumulated since 7 October. Impromptu landfills have sprouted around the territory as the volume of uncollected rubbishmounts; Unrwa , the UN refugee agency for Palestinians, which collects refuse in camps, is unable to operate. Zwijnenburg says PAX has identified at least 60 informal waste dumps in central and southern Gaza.

Ameer, a resident of Rafah, says people have become overwhelmed by pollution in the air as people use any wood or plastic to build fires, cars run on cooking oil, and from fumes left by the bombing itself.

“The smell is awful and the smoke coming from cars is unbearable – it made me sick for days,” he says. “The smell of gunpowder and these awful gases from the ongoing bombardments is doing both the people and the environment real harm.”

When Israel cut off fuel to Gaza after 7 October, the resulting power cuts meant wastewater could not be pumped to treatment plants, leading to 100,000 cubic metres of sewage a day spewing into the sea, the UNEP says.

‘An act of ecocide’

The scale and long-term impact of the destruction have led to calls for it to be investigated as a potential war crime, and to be classed as ecocide, which covers damage done to the environment by deliberate or negligent actions.

Under the Rome Statute , which governs the international criminal court, it is a war crime to intentionally launch an excessive attack knowing that it will cause widespread, long-term and severe damage to the natural environment The Geneva conventions require that warring parties do not use methods of warfare that cause “widespread, long-term and severe damage to the natural environment”.

Saeed Bagheri, a lecturer in international law at Reading University, says that while there are disagreements about how to apply these articles, there are enough grounds to investigate the damage done to Gaza’s environment already.

Abeer al-Butmeh, the coordinator of the Palestinian Environmental NGOs Network , says: “The Israeli occupation has completely damaged all elements of life and all environmental elements in Gaza – they completely destroyed the agriculture and wildlife.

“What is happening is, for sure, ecocide ,” she says. “[It] is completely damaging the environment in Gaza for the long term, not only for the short term.

“Palestinian people have a strong relationship with the land – they are very connected to their land and also to the sea,” she says. “People in Gaza cannot live without fishing, without farming.

FA says: “The destruction of agricultural land and infrastructure in Gaza is a deliberate act of ecocide.

“The targeted farms and greenhouses are fundamental to local food production for a population already under a decades-long siege. The effects of this systematic agricultural destruction are exacerbated by other deliberate acts of deprivation of critical resources for Palestinian survival in Gaza.”

• The age of extinction
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• Security Council

Reasonable Grounds to Believe Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Occurred in Israel During 7 October Attacks, Senior UN Official Tells Security Council

There are reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence — including rape and gang-rape — occurred across multiple locations of Israel and the Gaza periphery during the attacks on 7 October 2023, a senior United Nations official reported to the Security Council today, as she presented findings from her visit to Israel and the occupied West Bank.

Following allegations of brutal sexual violence committed during and in the aftermath of the Hamas-led terror attacks, Pramila Patten, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, led an official visit to Israel from 29 January to 14 February to gather, analyse and verify reports of sexual violence related to the 7 October attack.  Due to ongoing hostilities, the Special Representative did not request to visit Gaza, where other UN entities that monitor sexual violence are operational.

“What I witnessed in Israel were scenes of unspeakable violence perpetrated with shocking brutality,” Ms. Patten recalled. Detailing her methodology, she said that her team met with families of hostages and members of communities displaced from several kibbutzim.  It conducted confidential interviews with 34 individuals, including survivors and witnesses of the 7 October attacks, released hostages, first responders and health and service providers.  It visited four attack sites — as well as the morgue to which the bodies of victims were transferred — and reviewed over 5,000 photographic images and some 50 hours of footage of the attacks.

“It was a catalogue of the most extreme and inhumane forms of killing, torture and other horrors,” including sexual violence, she stated.  The team also found convincing information that sexual violence was committed against hostages, and has reasonable grounds to believe that such violence may still be ongoing against those in captivity.  While there are reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence occurred in the Nova music festival site, Route 232, and kibbutz Re’im, reported incidents of rape could not be verified in other locations. Concurrently, the team determined that at least two allegations of sexual violence in kibbutz Be’eri — widely reported in the media — were unfounded.

Turning to the West Bank, she painted a grim picture of “intense fear and insecurity, with women and men terrified and deeply disturbed over the ongoing tragedy in Gaza”.  On her visit to Ramallah, she spotlighted instances of sexual violence in the context of detention, such as invasive body searches; beatings, including in the genital areas; and threats of rape against women and female family members.  Sexual harassment and threats of rape during house raids and at checkpoints were also reported.  She expressed disappointment that the immediate reaction to her report by some Israeli political actors was not to open inquiries into those alleged incidents but, rather, to reject them outright via social media.

However, she underscored that her findings do not legitimize further hostilities.  Instead, they create a moral imperative for a humanitarian ceasefire to end the unspeakable suffering imposed on Palestinian civilians in Gaza and bring about the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.  “I am horrified by the injustice of women and children killed in Gaza,” she said, stressing that the end goal of her mandate is not “a war without rape” but a “world without war”.

In the following discussion, numerous Council Members — among them, the representatives of China, Switzerland, Japan, Slovenia, Malta, Mozambique and Ecuador — expressed shock over the incidents of sexual violence related to the 7 October attacks detailed in the Special Representative’s report.  Many urged Hamas to immediately release all hostages, who — according to the report — can still be subjected to such acts.  Some, including the representatives of the United States and France, criticized the Council’s failure to condemn Hamas.

There can be no doubt about what happened on 7 October, said the representative of the United States, pointing to the report’s findings that several bodies, naked from the waist down, were recovered — mostly “women with hands tied and shot multiple times, often in the head”.  The report also indicated that the detention of Palestinians has been compounded by sexual violence.  Nevertheless, she rejected “the false equivalency between these actions and hostage-taking by a foreign terrorist organization”.

Incidents of sexual violence in Israel and the West Bank contained in the report “add another horrific dimension to the tragedy unfolding in the Middle East”, observed Guyana’s delegate.  Noting that at least two widely reported allegations of sexual violence were unfounded, she urged all parties “to act responsibly and avoid sensationalizing headlines”. 

Tariq Ahmad, Minister of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office of the United Kingdom, said that London is ready to provide support, including its team of experts on preventing sexual violence in conflict and its toolkit that provides practical measures to address the stigma faced by survivors.  “All reports of sexual violence must be fully investigated to ensure justice for survivors and victims,” he said, adding that “justice delayed is justice denied”. 

Many echoed that call for accountability, including Sierra Leone’s delegate, who urged Israel to grant access to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) — as well as the Independent International Commission of Inquiry in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel — to fully investigate all alleged violations.  

Likewise, his counterpart from Switzerland underscored that competent bodies must establish the facts to help identify violations and ensure accountability.  Adding to that, the representative of the Republic of Korea stressed that a comprehensive investigative process, involving national authorities and OHCHR, will “bring light to the complete extent of alleged violations”.

The Russian Federation’s delegate, meanwhile, questioned the UN’s selective approach to visits in the region — including the Special Representative’s recent trip, which did not cover the Gaza Strip.  “We are dealing with some sort of half-truth that in no way gives a full picture,” she stressed.  Noting that the Special Representative’s report was based on data received from the Israeli Government rather than accounts of the 7 October victims, she underscored that “putting an end to violence, including sexual violence, will only be possible when we have objective and verified information”. 

Calling for such impartiality was Algeria’s delegate, who said that the Special Representative should have been granted authorization to visit the numerous detention centres where more than 3,484 Palestinian administrative detainees are held without trial.  “Her presence in the Gaza Strip would have allowed her to witness, first-hand, the extent of sexual abuse inflicted upon Palestinians by occupying forces and convey it to the international community,” he stressed.  

The plight of Palestinians is not a recent phenomenon, he continued, noting that only three criminal investigations have been initiated in response to 1,400 complaints about acts of torture since 2001.  None have led to indictments.  “What the Palestinians — particularly women — endure is a litmus test for the credibility of international law and the global framework outlined in Security Council resolutions,” he underscored, urging an immediate end to ongoing atrocities.

For his part, the Permanent Observer of the State of Palestine said that the Council has shown “unprecedented reactivity” by convening a briefing on a report just released.  For decades, similar reports regarding sexual assault against Palestinians have not led to the convening of a single Council meeting.  He then recalled that the Special Representative’s mission did not seek to gather information or verify allegations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, so as not to duplicate the ongoing work of other UN entities there.    

Yet, none of these entities were invited today to present their findings, he pointed out, extending an invitation for the Special Representative to visit Gaza.  He also pledged Palestine’s readiness to cooperate with OHCHR and the Independent International Commission of Inquiry.  The Council should demand that Israel do the same since that country keeps saying that it has nothing to hide, he stated, adding:  “Let the facts speak, let the law decide.”

Israel Katz, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Israel, criticized the United Nations for remaining silent about Hamas’ horrible acts for too long.  According to the Special Representative’s report, the killings of innocent young men and women on 7 October were crimes against humanity.  Against this backdrop, he called on the United Nations to declare Hamas a terrorist organization, citing the recognition of this status by numerous countries.  Emphasizing that “Hamas does not speak on behalf of the Muslim world,” he urged Muslim leaders to denounce the crimes committed by Hamas, particularly those involving sexual violence.  

Turning to the situation of hostages, he urged the Council to take urgent action to ensure the release of 134 kidnapped individuals and “stop this living hell”.  “By doing so, you will show the world that the Security Council can be a shining light of justice for all,” he added.

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