For the majority of the countries, October in Europe means that the fall foliage is starting to look amazing. The weather can be anything between warm, almost t-shirt like to cold and wet. On the other hand, the crowds have started to vanish in September and in October you have the cities to yourself. The downside is that some outdoor sites may start to close by mid-October.

With prices for accommodation typically on the low side and transport affordable as well, it’s time to explore Europe’s beautiful fall foliage or escape to warmer cities. Your choice.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Bruges, Belgium

October average temps: 12 C / 54 F
Accommodation price: from 110 USD a night in a double room (book your accommodation in Bruges now)

The picture-perfect Bruges is even more beautiful during autumn when the vines turn golden on the historical buildings. It is one of the few European cities which have preserved their pre-motorised charm, making them ideal for exploring and taking photos. While October is still pleasant temperature-wise, the weather may quickly turn to be damp and cold.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Budapest, Hungary

October average temps: 10 C / 51 F
Accommodation price: from 44 USD a night in a one bedroom apartment (book your accommodation in Budapest now)

Autumn is the season when the festivals celebrating food and beverages are in full swing. Of course, the wines are of interest now and you can plan to check out the near-by wine regions of Eger and Tokaj. Bundle up and walk in the early evening , checking out the fall colors. Climb up on Citadella for some amazing views of Danube and the city.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Cumbria County, England

October average temps: 10.1 C / 50.2 F
Accommodation price: from 121 USD a night in a one bedroom apartment (book your accommodation in Kendal now)

Famous for the Lake District National Park, Cumbria is the place to check out if you want to take stunning fall foliage photos. It is the country’s largest national park and home to amazing hiking trails. While you are in the area, check out Hadrian’s Wall, located north of Carlisle and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Dubrovnik, Croatia

October average temps: 17 C / 63 F
|Accommodation price: from 44 USD a night in a double room (book your accommodation in Dubrovnik now)

By now the crowds are starting to go away, but the weather is still nice. Actually, it’s perfect for exploring this charming city on foot. Prices are also going down a bit when it comes to accommodation and transport. Spend your time exploring the Old Town and the city walls, and if the weather turns sour, head to one of the many museums.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Lugano, Switzerland

October average temps: 13 C / 55.4 F
Accommodation price: from 122 USD a night in a double room (book your acommodation in Lugano now)

The picturesque city is located on the shores of Lake Lugano and borders Italy. The weather is milder now and the fall foliage majestic. While the summer crowds and heat are gone, the prices still can burn a hole in your budget. Come here during the first week of October and check out the Autumn Festival, which focuses on grapes and wines.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Oslo, Norway

October average temps: 6 C / 44 F
Accommodation price: from 78 USD a night in a studio (book your accommodation in Oslo now)

Bundle up and explore Oslo’s amazing parks in the evening, while there’s still some light outside. Catch the golden hour when the striking fall foliage becomes even more beautiful. Vigeland Sculpture Park is the most popular among locals and tourists alike, but you may also plan to take some walks in Oslomarka Forest, located just outside the city.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Piedmont, Italy

October average temps: 12.2 C / 54.1 F
Accommodation price: from 55 USD a night in a double room (book your accommodation in Turin now)

If you have food and wine on your mind, then this is the place to head to. Piedmont region in Italy is home to amazing mushrooms, truffles, chocolate, chestnuts and grapes and all have festivals dedicated to them in October. On top of all this comes the amazing fall foliage and the good hiking trails you can use to enjoy it.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Tenerife, Spain

October average temps: 22.8 C / 73 F
Accommodation price: from 40 USD a night in a double room (book your accommodation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife now)

If you want to still enjoy beach time in October, then Tenerife is your best bet. With the crowds gone, the prices are low and everything becomes affordable. And if by any chance, you get bored of the sun and sand, you can explore the national park and enjoy some hikes.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Transylvania, Romania

October average temps: 8 C / 49 F
Accommodation price: from 21 USD a night in a one bedroom apartment (book your accommodation in Cluj-Napoca now)

Bundle up and set out to explore this scenic region of Romania. While the Transfagarasan Highway may already close by end of October, there are a lot of other scenic routes to take. Put on your hiking boots and explore the many trails which cross the mountains and hills. And while you are at it, stop to taste the local wines and cheeses.

European Destinations to Visit in October: Wicklow County, Ireland

October average temps: 10.5 C / 50.9 F
Accommodation price: from 182 USD a night in a double room (book your accommodation in Wicklow now)

The “Garden of Ireland” is home to beautiful mountains which, during fall, offer spectacular colors for the hiker’s delight. Explore the historic Glendalough, one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. If the weather turns sour, hide in one of the pubs and try the cider.

Read also about:
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in January
>> 5 Best European Destinations to Visit in February
>>6 Best European Destinations to Visit in March
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in April
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in May
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in June
>>5 Best European Places to Visit in July
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in August
>>10 Best European Destinations to Visit in September
>>10 Best European Places to Visit in September
>>5 Best European Places to Visit in November
>>5 Best European destinations to visit in December

In times of uncertainty, flexibility matters. We recommend booking an option with free cancellation in case your travel plans change.

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This article has been updated as of July 2023