Where to Travel in October: 15 Dreamy Destinations Around the World

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Here are my favorite destinations in October!

Let’s get started with my favorite places that I have traveled in October (or close to it!) and then a few spots on the bucket list!

1. Mexico

Mexico is one of my favorite places to go in October. You can expect warm weather, fewer crowds in many destinations, and a really fun energy as the season starts to shift.

I visited Tulum in October, and it ended up being such a memorable trip. The weather was warm and tropical, with a mix of sunshine and a few passing showers, which honestly felt refreshing. It’s a great time to visit if you want that beachy, laid-back feel without peak-season crowds.

Tulum is all about the vibe. Think boho beach clubs, wellness experiences, and slow mornings that turn into long, relaxed days. We spent time swimming in cenotes, which are these beautiful natural sinkholes unique to the region, and visited the Tulum Mayan Ruins, which sit right above the ocean and are absolutely worth seeing. And of course, there were plenty of beachside margaritas mixed in. See our full Tulum Itinerary here!

The food scene in Tulum is such a highlight. You’ll experience open-air restaurants tucked into the jungle, with twinkle lights overhead and really creative menus. Dinner here feels like an experience, not just a meal.

If you’re looking for something more cultural and city-focused, Mexico City is incredible in October. I’ve spent time there as well, and the food alone is worth the trip. You’ll experience everything from street tacos to some of the best restaurants in the world, plus museums, historic neighborhoods, and so much energy throughout the city.

Other great options this time of year include San Miguel de Allende for its charm and architecture or Cabo San Lucas if you’re looking for a more traditional beach resort experience.

Overall, Mexico in October gives you a little bit of everything. You can lean into a wellness-focused beach escape, a food-driven city trip, or a mix of both.

Plus, if you go over Dia de los Muertos like us, you’ll get to experience more of the beautiful culture of Mexico.

Where to Stay in Mexico

Tulum

• Hotel Panamera – This is where we stayed, but there are newer hotels now! Fun, social, and stylish. You’ll experience that classic boho Tulum vibe with a lively atmosphere that’s great for couples or friends.
• La Valise Tulum – More intimate and elevated. Expect beautiful design, a quieter setting, and a romantic, indoor-outdoor feel.

Mexico City

• Four Seasons Hotel Mexico City – A classic, reliable choice. The courtyard is stunning, and it’s a great central base for exploring. It’s where we stayed for the safety I felt it offered.
• Casa Polanco – On my list for next time. It feels more boutique and design-forward, with a smaller, more personal experience.

San Miguel de Allende

• Rosewood San Miguel de Allende – Timeless and elegant. You’ll experience incredible rooftop views and a true sense of place. I love a Rosewood.

Cabo

• Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal – Ultra-private and dramatic. A top luxe option in Cabo.
• Esperanza, Auberge Resorts Collection – Relaxed luxury with a peaceful, oceanfront setting and beautiful dining.
• Chileno Bay Resort & Residences – Modern and family-friendly, with one of the best swimmable beaches in Cabo.

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2. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is one of those destinations that feels straight out of a movie and October is such a beautiful time to experience it.

I visited in September, and it was still very, very warm, so I’d absolutely recommend October if you want better balance. You’ll experience mild, comfortable weather along with harvest season, which brings such a special energy to the region. The vineyards are buzzing, the landscapes start to shift into those golden fall tones, and it just feels like the best version of Tuscany.

We stayed in a villa in Chianti that sat right on a private vineyard and it was one of my favorite stays. Waking up to rolling hills covered in vines and olive trees is something I still think about. It’s peaceful, scenic, and exactly what you picture when you think of the Italian countryside.

From there, we explored some of the most iconic towns, including Siena, Florence, and Castellina itself. Each one feels completely different, but they all have that medieval charm that makes Tuscany so special. You’ll experience winding streets, historic piazzas, and views that honestly don’t feel real.

What I love most about Tuscany is how easily you can pair culture with wine. You can spend your morning exploring art and architecture in Florence, then head into the countryside for a long, relaxed afternoon at a winery.

And the scenery here really is next level. The rolling hills, the cypress-lined roads, the hilltop towns—it all comes together to create one of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy.

Where to Stay in Tuscany, Italy

There are a TON of amazing places to stay in Tuscany, but here’s where we stayed. If you need help, reach out to me–I’m a travel advisor and would be glad to help!

• Collegio alla Querce, Firenze – we stayed in this most gorgeous design-forward hotel tucked right outside the busy areas of Florence. See my full Collegio alla Querce review.
• Villa in Chianti – this was perfect for a big family trip with the most amazing views! We loved staying here for a multi-gen trip.

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3. Japan

October is one of the most magical times to visit Japan. It’s peak fall foliage season, and if you’ve never seen photos of it, it’s worth a quick search. The colors are unreal. Deep reds, bright oranges, and golden yellows everywhere you look. Honestly, it rivals cherry blossom season.

We planned our first trip around Kyoto and Tokyo, and I still think it’s the perfect itinerary for a first visit.

Kyoto feels like stepping into traditional Japan. You’ll experience temples, quiet gardens, and charming streets that feel frozen in time. Walking through areas like Gion or visiting the temples surrounded by fall leaves is something you won’t forget.

Then you have Tokyo, which is the complete opposite in the best way. It’s vibrant, fast-paced, and full of energy. You can go from serene parks with fall foliage to some of the best dining and shopping in the world all in one day.

Where to Stay in Japan

These are the hotels we stayed in during our trip to Japan!

• Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi – Sleek and modern with incredible city views. It feels elevated and calm in the middle of Tokyo’s energy.
• Tokyo EDITION, Ginza – Design-forward and stylish. I loved the location and overall vibe here—it’s a great home base for exploring.
• The Shinmonzen (Kyoto) – One of the most special stays. Boutique, beautifully designed, and right in the heart of Kyoto’s historic district. You’ll experience something really unique here.

Japan in October feels like a true experience. Between the fall colors, the food, and the contrast between Kyoto and Tokyo, it’s one of those trips that stays with you long after you leave.

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4. Napa Valley, California

Napa Valley is such a classic fall destination in the US and October is when it really shines. You’ll experience harvest season, which brings so much energy to the region. The vineyards are buzzing, the weather is crisp but still warm during the day, and everything feels especially lively.

This is one of my favorite trips to recommend for just about anyone. It works so well for couples, a girls weekend, or even a group trip. I went with a group of friends one year and it was such a fun way to experience it. We spent our days hopping between wineries, seeing harvest activities in action, and enjoying long, relaxed tastings. We also spent a night together in San Francisco before our flights and it was a great add-on.

Beyond the wine, the food scene here is incredible. You can expect everything from casual tastings to really elevated dining experiences, all set against beautiful vineyard views.

I also love how easy it is to plan your stay. There are so many amazing resorts if you want that full wine country experience OR you can stay in downtown Napa for more walkability and things to do in the evenings.

Where to Stay in Napa

• The Westin Verasa Napa – This is where we stayed, and it’s such a great, more budget-friendly option. It’s right near downtown, so you can easily walk to dinner or grab a drink after a day of wine tasting.
• Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection – Especially great if you’re traveling with kids. It feels modern, spacious, and very experience-driven.
• Auberge du Soleil – Classic Napa. You’ll experience incredible views, a romantic atmosphere, and one of the best restaurants in the area.
• Montage Healdsburg – Tucked into the hills, this one feels private and luxurious, with beautiful surroundings and a peaceful vibe.
• Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection – Relaxed and chic. I love this one for its laid-back feel and amazing spa!

Napa in October just feels special. Between the harvest season, the wine, and the overall charm, it’s one of those trips that’s always a good idea.

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5. Seychelles

Seychelles is one of the most unforgettable destinations I’ve ever experienced, and October is such a smart time to go, especially for a honeymoon.

October falls in that sweet spot between trade winds (along with April, May, and November), which means you’ll experience calm seas and incredible visibility for snorkeling and diving. The weather is warm, the water is clear, and conditions are just about perfect for being on the beach or out on the water.

I went to the Seychelles for my honeymoon and it truly felt unreal. It’s easily one of the most naturally beautiful places I’ve ever been. The combination of turquoise water, massive granite boulders, and lush greenery is unlike anywhere else.

We split our time between Praslin and a private island stay, with a day trip to La Digue. See our 10 day Seychelles & Dubai itinerary here.

On Praslin, you can explore Vallée de Mai, which is this incredible palm forest that almost doesn’t feel real, and spend time at Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. Sunset here is something special.

Then we stayed at Six Senses Zil Pasyon, which sits on its own private island. It’s hard to describe how peaceful and secluded it feels. You’re surrounded by nothing but ocean, and it becomes such an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We also took a day trip to La Digue to see Anse Source d’Argent, which is, without question, the most stunning beach I’ve ever seen. We biked around the island, stopped at different beaches, and even saw giant Aldabra giant tortoise, which felt so unique to this destination.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

• Six Senses Zil Pasyon – One of the most special honeymoon hotels. You’ll experience total privacy, incredible villas, and that feeling of being completely off the grid in the best way.

The Seychelles in October is the kind of trip you plan once and never forget. It’s remote, it’s breathtaking, and it feels like a true escape from everything.

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6. Mallorca, Spain

I’m especially excited about Mallorca this year because we’re heading there with our two babies and it feels like such a perfect October trip. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe during October.

We’re starting with two nights in Madrid, then heading to Mallorca for a full week, which I think is such a great way to do it. You get a little city time, then settle into island life.

October is a beautiful time to visit Mallorca. You’ll experience warm, comfortable weather without the intense summer crowds, which makes exploring so much more enjoyable. It’s ideal for wandering through towns, getting outside, and still having plenty of beach time.

What I love about Mallorca is how much variety you get. You can explore charming mountain towns like Deià and Valldemossa, go for a scenic hike, or spend your days beach hopping along the coast. It’s relaxed but still feels elevated, with amazing food and beautiful scenery everywhere you go.

For this trip, we’re splitting our stay between two hotels so I can experience both for the blog and my clients!

Where to Stay in Mallorca

• Four Seasons Mallorca at Formentor – This is where we’ll start, and I expect it to be very family-friendly. You’ll experience a more resort-style stay with a private beach, which is such a plus with kids.
• La Residencia, A Belmond Hotel – This one feels iconic. It’s tucked into the hills in Deià and seems much more romantic, but I couldn’t pass it up. It’s one of those bucket list stays, especially for couples or honeymoons!
• Cap Rocat – If we weren’t traveling with kids, this is where I would absolutely stay. It’s incredibly unique and perfect for a honeymoon or romantic getaway.

Mallorca in October feels like the best of everything. You’ll experience beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and that mix of beach, mountains, and charming towns that makes the island so special.

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7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is one of my favorite cities in the world, and honestly, there’s a reason to visit year-round. But October has a really special feel if you’re looking for something more low-key.

Summer is peak season here, but in October, you’ll experience a quieter, more local side of the city. The weather is cooler and crisp, which makes it perfect for slow mornings, cozy cafés, and long walks or bike rides around the city.

The food scene in Copenhagen is a huge reason I keep coming back. There are so many incredible restaurants, and we’ve been to dozens over the years. You can expect everything from casual food halls to some of the most innovative dining in the world. It’s such a fun city if you plan your days around what you’re eating (which I always do).

One of my favorite ways to explore Copenhagen is by bike. You can ride through the city to see castles, parks, and different neighborhoods, and it’s such an easy, enjoyable way to get around. I also love doing a private canal cruise because it gives you a completely different perspective of the city. And spending time wandering through the food halls!

Copenhagen is one of those places where you don’t need a packed itinerary. It’s just a beautiful city to exist in, slow down, and enjoy.

Where to Stay in Copenhagen

• Hotel Sanders – This is always my top choice and we’ve stayed here a few times. It’s romantic, cozy, and very hygge, with an ideal location just around the corner from Nyhavn.
• Villa Copenhagen – More trendy and energetic, but still very Danish in design. It’s right near Tivoli Gardens and works really well for both couples and families.

Copenhagen in October feels cozy in the best way. It’s all about slowing down, eating well, and enjoying one of the most charming cities out there.

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8. New England, USA

If you’re chasing fall foliage, New England in October is hard to beat. This is peak season, and you’ll experience those classic autumn colors everywhere you go—deep reds, oranges, and golds that feel straight out of a postcard.

There are so many incredible places to visit across the region, from Maine to Vermont, but for an easy, charming weekend getaway, I love recommending Newport. We planned a trip last year, but didn’t get to go so I’m hoping to squeeze it in this October! You need to book well in advance at some of the hotels (why it didn’t work out for us!)

Newport has such a cozy coastal feel in the fall. You can wander along the waterfront, walk the famous Cliff Walk, pop into little shops, and spend your afternoons at cozy cafés. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a packed itinerary since it’s all about slowing down and enjoying the atmosphere.

And if you want to lean fully into fall, October is perfect for it. You’ll find apple picking, cider tastings, local wineries, and pumpkin patches all nearby. It’s such a fun mix of coastal charm and classic autumn activities.

Where to Stay in Newport

• The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection – Chic and elevated, right in the heart of Newport. Great if you want something stylish and walkable. It’s where I would stay with kids.
• Castle Hill Inn – A classic New England stay right on the water. It feels timeless and a little more tucked away.
• The Chanler at Cliff Walk – Romantic and elegant, with an unbeatable location right along the Cliff Walk.
• Gardiner House – Really cute and more boutique. I love this one for a couples trip or girls weekend. I would stay here if not traveling with my kids!

New England in October just feels like fall at its best. You’ll experience beautiful scenery, cozy moments, and that crisp air that makes everything feel a little more special.

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9. France

Paris is always a good idea, but October is one of the best times to visit. Plus, it’s a great time to explore more of the country like Normandy or the french countryside for some champagne!!

Spring and fall bring the best weather and Paris is a city you really want to experience outside! You’ll be walking everywhere, sitting at cafés, and wandering through different neighborhoods, so that crisp, mild October weather makes a big difference. We visited in June, and it was honestly too hot, so this is a classic “do as I say, not as I do.”

We spent three days exploring Paris and it felt like the perfect amount of time for a first trip. We wandered through Montmartre, saw iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, and spent time in museums like the Louvre Museum.

And of course, the food is such a highlight. Paris is one of those cities where you can plan your entire day around what you’re eating, from morning croissants to long dinners and everything in between.

If you have a few extra days, I highly recommend pairing Paris with a short trip to the French countryside. Regions like Champagne, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley are all within about a two-hour train ride. You can sip champagne, taste world-class wines, and explore historic châteaux—all without straying far from the city. It’s the perfect combination of urban charm and countryside relaxation.

Where to Stay in Paris

• The Hoxton, Paris – This is where we stayed and it’s such a great option for a weekend trip. It’s more budget-friendly, has a really cute courtyard, and we love the Hoxton brand.
• Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin – So fun and beautifully designed. It’s perfect for a girls trip, with colorful, playful interiors.
• Le Meurice – If you want something more classic and luxurious, this is such a special stay. You’ll experience incredible views and one of the best locations in the city.

France in October just feels right. You’ll experience beautiful weather, fewer crowds than peak summer, and all the reasons people fall in love with the city in the first place!

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10. Charleston, South Carolina

I know I’m biased because I live here, but Charleston in October is the absolute best. If you’re deciding when to visit Charleston, this is the month I would tell anyone to book.

You’ll experience warm, comfortable weather that’s perfect for being outside all day. It’s similar to spring, but without the pollen, which makes such a difference if you have allergies like me! It’s ideal for walking through downtown, sitting on rooftops, shopping on King Street, and, of course, eating your way through the city.

October still gives you a bit of everything. It’s warm enough for a beach day (or at least a long walk by the water), but you also start to feel that subtle shift into fall. One of my favorite parts of this time of year is oyster season. You can find an oyster roast almost anywhere, and it’s such a fun, local experience.

This is also when Charleston just feels its best. The energy is lively but not overwhelming, the weather is on your side, and everything that makes the city special really shines.

See our guides for the best Charleston restaurants, things to do in Charleston and Where to Stay in Charleston!

Where to Stay in Charleston, SC

And now for my fave hotels in Charleston!

• The Dewberry – This is always my top choice. It’s stylish, centrally located, and feels very “Charleston” while still being elevated.
• The Cooper – Just opened in 2026 and already stands out. It’s the only hotel right along the harbor, so you’ll experience incredible water views.
• The Charleston Place – Recently renovated and it shows. It feels fresh, elevated, and right in the middle of everything.
• Hotel Bennett – Classic Southern luxury with a beautiful rooftop pool. It’s one of the most iconic stays in the city.

Charleston in October is one of those trips that just works. Great weather, amazing food, and so many ways to enjoy the city.

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11. Munich, Germany

If you’re thinking about visiting Germany in October, here’s my tip: go after Oktoberfest.

Most people don’t realize that Oktoberfest actually takes place mostly in September, and while it’s an incredible event, it also brings huge crowds. Visiting in October gives you a much more relaxed experience while still enjoying everything that makes cities like Munich so special!

Munich is such an easy, enjoyable city to explore if you want a city break type trip. We loved spending time in Marienplatz, walking through the English Garden, and just wandering the streets, popping into shops and stopping for meals outside! See my 3 day Munich Itinerary here!

October weather here is crisp and comfortable, which makes it perfect for sightseeing without the summer crowds. And of course, you still get to experience the famous beer halls, just without the intensity of Oktoberfest.

One of my favorite things to recommend is adding a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle. It’s that fairytale castle you’ve probably seen photos of, set against the Bavarian Alps, and it’s perfect in October with a bit of fall color around it!

Where to Stay in Munich

• Rosewood Munich – This was one of the nicest hotel experiences we’ve had. It feels elevated, refined, and perfectly located for exploring the city. While still being baby friendly! See my full Rosewood Munich hotel review here.

Germany in October feels calm, charming, and easy to enjoy. You’ll experience beautiful fall weather, fewer crowds, and all the culture (and beer) without the chaos.

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12. Washington, DC

We took a family trip (and babymoon) to Washington, DC last fall, and it ended up being such a lovely getaway.

October is a beautiful time to visit our nation’s capitol. You’ll experience crisp fall weather, colorful leaves, and the kind of temperatures that make you want to be outside all day. It’s perfect for walking, sightseeing, shopping, and dining outdoors.

For this trip, we stayed in Georgetown, and I would absolutely recommend it. It’s close enough to easily visit the monuments (which never gets old no matter how many times I’ve seen them), but it also feels like its own little escape. Georgetown is charming, walkable, and filled with great shopping and really good restaurants with global cuisine.

If your trip is more focused on museums and sightseeing, staying closer to the National Mall can make sense. But if you want your trip to feel a bit more relaxed, with a neighborhood vibe, Georgetown is such a great choice.

Where to Stay in Washington, DC

• Rosewood Washington, DC – This is where we stayed, and it worked so well for a family trip. It feels elevated but still comfortable, with a great location in Georgetown.
• The LINE DC – I’ve also stayed here, and it’s such a unique option. It’s set in a former church, which gives it a really cool, design-forward feel.

Washington, DC in October is one of those easy, feel-good trips. You’ll experience beautiful weather, iconic sights, and a mix of city energy and neighborhood charm.

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13. Switzerland

Switzerland is another top pick for a fall trip. October is perfect weather for hiking in the Alps, exploring charming cities, and soaking in those iconic landscapes without the summer crowds.

We did a five-day Swiss road trip across the country one year and each stop was amazing! We went in September which was beautiful, but October would be just as lovely, if not better. You’ll get crisp, fresh air, fewer tourists, and those fall colors in the mountains, which make every drive and hike feel extra special.

Here’s a look at the stops we made and some things you could do!

Lucerne is classic Swiss charm. You will love strolling along the Lake Lucerne promenade, wandering the old town with its painted buildings, and crossing the Chapel Bridge.

Geneva is beautiful for lakeside walks and culture. We spent time along Lake Geneva, snapped photos of the Jet d’Eau, and wandered the Old Town with its cobblestone streets, charming cafés, and boutique shops. We’ve been a couple times now and its a city I would want to live in personally!

Bern has a quaint, storybook vibe. We loved walking the Old Town, seeing the Zytglogge clock tower, and exploring local cafés along the Aare River. The historical architecture makes it easy to spend a relaxing day just wandering and soaking in the atmosphere.

Interlaken is all about adventure and scenery. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, it’s perfect for hikes or a train ride up to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe.” You can also go paragliding or take a boat ride. We just stopped for a short time and watched the skydivers land!

Zurich blends city energy with lakeside charm. We wandered the streets of the Old Town, enjoyed window shopping along Bahnhofstrasse, and ate plenty of great food!

Where to Stay in Switzerland

• Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa, Lake Lucerne – Pure luxury with stunning lake views, an incredible wellness spa, and that classic Swiss elegance.
• Hotel Longemalle, Geneva – A charming, boutique stay right in the heart of the city. Perfect if you want something central with character.
• Storchen, Zurich – Luxe boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant. Great for a refined city stay with a touch of indulgence.

Switzerland in October is just about the perfect mix: active days in nature, cozy city strolls, and luxury stays to unwind at the end of it all.

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14. Portugal (Duoro Valley)

If you’re looking for a fall getaway that’s a little off the beaten path, I would highly recommend Douro Valley. It’s one of the most iconic wine regions in the world, and its popularity is only growing—and for good reason.

This region is perfect for slow, relaxed days. You can bike along the vineyards, take a river cruise, have a picnic surrounded by rolling hills, and of course, taste incredible wines along the way.

September is technically harvest season, but October feels calmer, with cooler weather that makes exploring even more enjoyable.

My mother-in-law did a trip through Portugal last year, and the Douro Valley looked especially magical!

Where to Stay in Portugal

• Six Senses Douro Valley – My top pick for a luxury stay in the region. This brand always delivers an elevated experience, combining design, comfort, and thoughtful touches that make the trip unforgettable.

October in the Douro Valley is the kind of trip that mixes scenic beauty, world-class wine, and peaceful fall vibes. It’s perfect for a relaxing escape with a little indulgence built in!

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15. Crete, Greece

Crete is one of the few Greek islands that stays warm well into fall, usually through November, which makes it perfect for an October trip. Most islands start to quiet down around this time, and many places close for the season, but Crete still feels lively enough to enjoy.

October is ideal if you want to beat the crowds and take advantage of shoulder-season rates. You’ll get warm, sunny weather without the peak-season chaos, making it easier to explore beaches, villages, and historic sites at your own pace.

It’s also a great time to explore Athens without the summer heat or crowds. In the summer, I always keep it to a one night stay in Athens because its a little hectic. But in October, I would spend a couples nights and enjoy all the city has to offer this time of year!

Where to Stay in Crete

• Rosewood Blue Palace – Opening in 2026, this new hotel looks incredible. I’d recommend it for a luxurious, design-forward stay that captures the best of Crete’s coast and views.

Crete in October is the kind of trip where you can relax, explore, and enjoy warm weather, all while avoiding the busiest tourist months. It’s a smart choice for a low-key but still beautiful Greek island getaway.

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The Wrap Up: Where to Travel in October

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to plan a trip, October is it. From warm beaches to cozy mountain towns, fall colors, and harvest season vibes, this month has something for every traveler. These are some of the best places to visit in October, offering fewer crowds, great weather, and unforgettable experiences.

So, which destination is calling your name? I hope this guide gave you ideas and insider tips to start planning—and if you want help turning any of these trips into a seamless, unforgettable experience, reach out! I’d love to help you plan your perfect October getaway.

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