20 Best Places to Visit in Europe in October 2025 (Cities, Beaches & Great Weather)
October is one of the best months to visit Europe and savvy travelers are well aware of this. The summer crowds are gone and the summer weather has obviously cooled off, but most places are still warm and pleasant. Hotel prices are down in most European cities as well, so you can afford a nicer place in October than you could in any month of summer.
Believe it or not, there are still at least 4 good beach destinations in Europe in October (5 if you count Barcelona), and we have those listed at the top of the article. Below that you’ll find the 16 best European cities to visit in October, and this year we’ve ranked them from cheapest to most expensive. Using our famous Europe Backpacker Index, we rank 54 of Europe’s top cities each year in costs per day for backpackers and budget travelers. You may be surprised to learn the the most expensive cities on the list will cost around US$130 per day while the cheapest are under US$50. Needless to say, if you are on a budget it matters a LOT where you go, and the list below will suggest cool places in all price ranges.
If you are on a lower budget you will find plenty of really great options near the top of the list, but if you have a big budget you might as well splurge and scroll down near the bottom where the really expensive cities can be found.
This article was last updated in July, 2025
Europe's 4 best October beach destinations
Costa del Sol/Malaga, Spain
- October avg high: 75°F/24°C
- October avg low: 58°F/14°C
- October avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
If you’re hoping to squeeze in one last beach holiday before winter hits, the Costa del Sol is a solid pick. Crowds thin out in October, especially outside the first two weeks, but the weather usually holds up through mid-month — warm enough for sunbathing and even a swim if you’re not too sensitive to cooler water.
While the traditional Costa del Sol beach towns like Torremolinos and Fuengirola have long catered to package tourists, Malaga itself is a better choice these days. It’s not only a working Spanish city with an authentic core, but it also offers beaches, great food, and better transport connections — all without the cookie-cutter resort feel. And in October, hotel prices drop enough to make it one of Spain’s better values.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$70 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$96 per night for two people
Algarve/Faro, Portugal
- October avg high: 74°F/23°C
- October avg low: 60°F/16°C
- October avg precip: 2.4″/6.0cm
Like the Costa del Sol, the Algarve is a solid choice if you’re hoping to stretch beach season into October. The first half of the month can still be warm and sunny, though by the end it starts to feel more like sweater weather — especially in the evenings.
The region is lined with scenic coastal towns, but I especially enjoyed staying in Tavira, which is quieter, charming, and a favorite with windsurfers and other water sports fans. It has a more local feel than the busier resort areas like Albufeira or Lagos, and the beaches near Tavira are as wide and beautiful as anywhere. Prices drop sharply after the high season, making it a budget-friendly pick for an autumn escape.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$57 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
- October avg high: 79°F/26°C
- October avg low: 68°F/20°C
- October avg precip: 0.7″/1.8cm
If you’re looking for the best beach destination in Europe in October—or honestly, for the rest of the year—Tenerife is the clear winner. The weather is warm and sunny even as the rest of the continent cools off, and the Atlantic here stays swimmable well into winter.
Prices are lower in October than during peak summer, but the island is still lively. The beach resorts in the southwest, especially around Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, are the most popular with English-speaking visitors. There’s not much in the way of sightseeing, and nightlife is pretty tame, but Tenerife is perfect if you’re after a relaxing, affordable break with reliable sunshine.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$118 per night for two people
Antalya, Turkey
- October avg high: 81°F/27°C
- October avg low: 59°F/15°C
- October avg precip: 3.4″/8.5cm
Okay, so Antalya isn’t technically in Europe – but it’s still one of the best beach destinations for Europeans in October. Cheap flights from all over the continent, excellent value hotels, and warm Mediterranean weather make this a standout pick.
The beaches here are long, sandy, and dotted with affordable all-inclusive resorts, many of which are open year-round. You’ll also find a charming historic district and a walkable harbor area in the city itself, which adds a bit more depth than your typical sun-and-sand destination. Even better, Turkey continues to be one of the best value spots anywhere in the region thanks to the exchange rate, so you can get a lot of luxury for surprisingly little.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$76 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$128 per night for two people
16 Best non-beach destinations in Europe in October from cheapest to most expensive
If you’re more into culture, history, food, and photogenic streets than lounging on the sand, October is a fantastic month for a European city trip. Crowds have thinned out, hotel prices often dip, and the weather is still pleasant in much of the continent — especially southern and central Europe. Whether you’re after iconic sights, cozy cafés, or just a more relaxed pace in places that are packed all summer, these 16 cities are ideal October picks.
London, England
- October avg high: 59°F/15°C
- October avg low: 48°F/9°C
- October avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
If you’re expecting London to be one of the most expensive cities in Europe for hotels – well, you’re not wrong overall. But surprisingly, October has been showing up with some great-value deals lately. When I checked this year’s rates, there were several 3-star and even 4-star hotels with strong reviews and excellent locations for prices that felt almost too good to be true. It seems like finding an affordable hotel in London is actually getting easier, at least in shoulder season.
Weather-wise, October is a sweet spot. The big summer crowds are long gone, and the city feels a bit more relaxed while still offering decent weather for sightseeing. You’ll still want a jacket, but the rain usually holds off enough that you can explore comfortably. And with fewer tourists, it’s easier to grab West End show tickets or score a seat at a cozy pub without much effort.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$101 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$134 per night for two people
Paris, France
- October avg high: 61°F/16°C
- October avg low: 51°F/11°C
- October avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
Paris is almost always busy, but hotel prices usually dip a bit after summer. Not this year. When I checked rates for October, they were some of the highest I’ve seen in a long time—likely due to a major event in town during the test dates. So while it’s normally a good month for finding better-value rooms, don’t be surprised if prices are unusually high this year depending on your timing.
That said, October is still a wonderful time to visit. The summer crowds thin out, the air gets crisp, and the city feels just a bit more Parisian again. The fall colors in the parks are beautiful, and this is the season when cafés start rolling out their cozy indoor vibes. Even if you end up paying a bit more, it’s a great time to enjoy the city without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds of high season.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$171 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$208 per night for two people
Barcelona, Spain
- October avg high: 71°F/22°C
- October avg low: 55°F/13°C
- October avg precip: 3.6″/9.0cm
Barcelona’s relationship with tourism is famously complicated, but October tends to be one of the smoother months to visit. The worst of the summer crowds are long gone, the beaches are still nice for strolling, and locals aren’t quite as weary of visitors as they are in August or September. It’s a sweet spot—pleasant weather, lower prices, and fewer crowds.
Hotel rates in October are still on the high side, but you’re more likely to find good value now than during the peak months. And as always in Barcelona, location matters. Staying in the Gothic Quarter or El Born can be magical, but don’t overlook slightly quieter areas like Gràcia or Poble Sec, which offer better prices and a more local vibe.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$113 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$170 per night for two people
Rome, Italy
- October avg high: 72°F/22°C
- October avg low: 54°F/12°C
- October avg precip: 3.7″/9.3cm
Rome is one of those cities everyone should visit at least once – but for many travelers, once is enough. October is a fantastic time to go, with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the high summer months, making it a bit easier to take in the monumental sights without elbowing through tour groups.
That said, Rome can feel overwhelming. The traffic is constant, crossing the street often feels like a dare, and the general pace of the city is chaotic. It’s best to plan your sightseeing efficiently – see the Colosseum, the Vatican, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain—and then move on to someplace more relaxed. A few days is often just right.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$107 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$146 per night for two people
Amsterdam, Netherlands
- October avg high: 57°F/14°C
- October avg low: 46°F/8°C
- October avg precip: 4.1″/10.3cm
Amsterdam is one of those cities that feels almost too popular for its own good, especially in the peak summer months. But by October, the crowds thin out just enough to make the canals, museums, and neighborhoods feel manageable again. Autumn suits Amsterdam well — the golden leaves along the canals make for stunning walks and photos.
I actually lived in Amsterdam for a while and loved it, in spite of the crowds. One pleasant surprise this year is that hotel prices in October seem noticeably more reasonable than in the past — and not just at the bottom end. It feels like Amsterdam may finally be finding a better balance between visitor demand and accommodation supply, which is good news if you’ve been holding off on a trip due to cost.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$88 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$116 per night for two people
Berlin, Germany
- October avg high: 56°F/13°C
- October avg low: 44°F/7°C
- October avg precip: 1.5″/3.8cm
Berlin is one of my favorite cities in Europe — and also one of the hardest to explain. On the surface, it doesn’t have a ton of “checklist” attractions, and it’s not especially photogenic compared to places like Paris or Rome. But it has something else entirely — a creative, electric energy that hooks you the moment you arrive.
Despite its serious history, Berlin feels youthful, progressive, and refreshingly affordable for a major capital. October is an excellent time to visit — cooler, but not cold, and far fewer tourists to compete with at museums and restaurants. It’s a city that rewards exploration, even if it’s not love at first sight in photos.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$95 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$127 per night for two people
Florence, Italy
- October avg high: 70°F/21°C
- October avg low: 50°F/10°C
- October avg precip: 3.5″/8.8cm
Florence is one of those rare cities that somehow feels intimate and grand at the same time. The historic center is compact and walkable, yet it’s packed with masterpieces — the Duomo, Michelangelo’s David, the Uffizi Gallery — all within a short stroll of one another. It’s a dense little city, but compared to Rome, it actually feels calm and manageable, especially in October when the crowds thin out and the weather is still pleasant.
Interestingly, Florence used to be noticeably cheaper than Rome, but those days may be behind us. In my most recent hotel research, prices in Florence were actually higher — though that’s not always the case year-round. Still, you can find good value if you book a bit in advance and avoid the peak weekends.
This is also a great time of year to use Florence as a base for exploring nearby hill towns or even Cinque Terre. The coast is quieter now, but still warm enough for a sunny lunch with sea views. Whether you’re into Renaissance art or just great food and wine, Florence makes a strong case for itself in October.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$134 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$190 per night for two people
Madrid, Spain
- October avg high: 66°F/19°C
- October avg low: 50°F/10°C
- October avg precip: 1.9″/4.8cm
Madrid is a lively and elegant capital that really comes alive after dark — at least for those who can keep up. It’s famous for its buzzing late-night bars and clubs, where the real action doesn’t start until midnight and might not end until sunrise. Personally, I always hit the tapas bars early in the evening, and by the time the locals are just getting started, I’m already calling it a night. So while I’ve never experienced the legendary club scene firsthand, I can confirm the early-evening food and wine circuit is fantastic on its own.
October is a great month to visit because the heat of summer has faded, and you can comfortably stroll the boulevards, explore the art museums, or hang out in the city’s famous plazas. It’s one of Europe’s most walkable capitals, with wide sidewalks and a clean, safe feel. If you’re not a night owl, don’t worry — there’s plenty to enjoy during the daylight hours, especially if you appreciate good food, rich culture, and a laid-back vibe.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$85 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$143 per night for two people
Lisbon, Portugal
- October avg high: 72°F/22°C
- October avg low: 58°F/14°C
- October avg precip: 3.1″/7.8cm
Lisbon continues to be one of Europe’s best-value capital cities — not just for its affordable hotels, but also for its unique charm. Prices are still quite reasonable in October, and if you’re a social traveler, it’s worth noting that Lisbon is home to some of Europe’s most stylish and welcoming hostels. Many of them offer private rooms at great prices, so you can meet other travelers without sacrificing comfort.
The weather this time of year is usually mild and sunny, perfect for riding the vintage trams through hilly neighborhoods, wandering past tiled façades, and relaxing at sidewalk cafés. The food scene is impressive, especially if you’re into seafood or pastries (definitely try a pastel de nata). Lisbon may be a bit off the typical tourist trail, but that’s part of what makes it feel so special — it’s the kind of place you’ll already be planning to return to before you’ve even left.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$92 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$139 per night for two people
Prague, Czechia
- October avg high: 58°F/14°C
- October avg low: 43°F/6°C
- October avg precip: 1.3″/3.3cm
Prague might just have the most striking architecture in Europe — a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau that makes nearly every street look like a movie set. The city is mostly flat and very walkable, and in October the cooler temperatures make sightseeing especially pleasant without the summer crowds.
One thing that still stands out is the huge price difference between tourist-facing restaurants and the ones locals actually eat at. In the main squares, you’ll find menus with prices similar to Paris, but walk just a few blocks and you can get a hearty Czech meal or a pint of beer for half as much. It’s a great city for budget travelers who don’t mind exploring beyond the obvious.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$86 per night for two people
Venice, Italy
- October avg high: 65°F/18°C
- October avg low: 49°F/9°C
- October avg precip: 2.7″/6.8cm
Venice is one of those places where the reality actually matches the postcard — at least if you time it right. The city is compact enough that even a quick 24-hour visit lets you hit the highlights, but staying two nights gives you time to breathe it all in. The key to enjoying Venice is to avoid the peak-daytime madness. From about 9 AM to 5 PM, the city is swarmed with day-trippers and cruise ship passengers.
The real charm of Venice comes out early in the morning and again in the evening when the alleys quiet down and the canals shimmer in the low light. Stay on the main island if you can, and take advantage of those peaceful hours — it’s when the magic happens, and you’ll see a side of the city that most visitors completely miss.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$198 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$270 per night for two people
Budapest, Hungary
- October avg high: 61°F/16°C
- October avg low: 44°F/7°C
- October avg precip: 1.8″/4.5cm
Budapest continues to be one of Europe’s best travel bargains, especially when it comes to food and drink. You can still get a hearty meal or a glass of wine for a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe, and hotel prices in October tend to be comfortably affordable as well.
If you enjoy a drink or two in the evening, definitely look into the city’s famous Ruin Pubs. These quirky bars are set in the courtyards of old, often semi-abandoned buildings, and they’ve become a beloved part of Budapest’s nightlife scene. With their mix of mismatched furniture, creative lighting, live music, art installations, and general anything-goes vibe, they’re a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$77 per night for two people
Istanbul, Turkey
- October avg high: 68°F/20°C
- October avg low: 54°F/12°C
- October avg precip: 2.8″/7.0cm
Istanbul remains one of Europe’s best-value big cities, especially when it comes to accommodation and food. Even in October, you can find well-located hotels at prices that would be unthinkable in most other major cities. The weather is usually mild and pleasant this time of year, and the summer crowds have mostly moved on.
Of course, it’s wise to keep an eye on the news before booking, as tensions in the region can occasionally flare up. That said, for most travelers, the experience is overwhelmingly positive — the history, architecture, food, and sheer energy of the city are unforgettable. This is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy a ferry ride between continents for the price of a metro ticket.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$51 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$56 per night for two people
Split, Croatia
- October avg high: 68°F/20°C
- October avg low: 57°F/14°C
- October avg precip: 3.0″/7.5cm
Split has become one of Croatia’s most popular destinations — and in many ways, it’s a more enjoyable alternative to Dubrovnik. Unlike Dubrovnik, which can feel like a walled theme park especially when the cruise ships are in, Split is a proper working city with a large local population and a more authentic vibe. You still get stunning coastal views, Roman ruins like Diocletian’s Palace, and easy ferry access to the nearby islands.
October is a fantastic time to visit. Crowds are thinning out, the weather is still warm, and hotel prices have dropped considerably from their summer highs. It’s a relaxed and rewarding stop with fewer selfie sticks and more space to breathe.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$62 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$79 per night for two people
Krakow, Poland
- October avg high: 56°F/13°C
- October avg low: 41°F/5°C
- October avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm
Krakow remains one of Europe’s best-value destinations, and it’s a gem in October. The city’s medieval old town is beautiful and compact, with loads of affordable restaurants, lively bars, and historical attractions like Wawel Castle and the former Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz. The main square, Rynek Główny, is one of the largest in Europe and a perfect place to people-watch with a coffee or a beer.
October brings crisp, pleasant weather and far fewer tourists than in summer, which makes it easier to appreciate the vibe without the crowds. Hotels are shockingly affordable — 3-star places with great reviews still hover under US$50 per night. For travelers on a budget or anyone wanting a charming European city that isn’t mobbed in autumn, Krakow is hard to beat.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$45 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$79 per night for two people
Interlaken, Switzerland
- October avg high: 58°F/14°C
- October avg low: 42°F/6°C
- October avg precip: 3.1″/7.8cm
Tucked between two alpine lakes and surrounded by towering peaks, Interlaken is a longtime favorite for nature lovers and adventure travelers. Early October is often one of the best times of year to visit — hiking trails are still accessible, the air is crisp but not too cold, and the scenery is absolutely stunning with fall colors creeping into the valleys.
That said, timing is everything. By mid-October, many hotels, restaurants, and even some cable cars shut down for the quiet period before ski season begins in December. So if you want to catch Interlaken at its most peaceful and scenic, aim for the first half of the month. Prices are high — this is Switzerland, after all — but if you’ve ever dreamed of hiking through storybook landscapes without summer crowds, this is your window.
Hotel prices in October
- 3-star hotels from: US$299 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$322 per night for two people
Hi, we three ( husband, wife, and 14yrs old son) planned to visit Europe in early October…can we manage in 15days Vienna, Prague, Munich, Amsterdam, Paris, Barcelona, and Venice …to & fro India. You better suggest the cities with the different interest in place….regards, sarat toy
Sarat,
With 15 days in Europe I’d recommend focusing on 5 total cities. For nearly all of Europe it’s best to stay 3 nights in each city. You won’t be able to do much or any sightseeing on travel days, so if you change cities every other day it means spending half of your trip in transit.
I’d definitely visit Paris and Amsterdam. You could also visit Munich, Prague, and Vienna and it would be an amazing trip full of highlights. The easiest way to do it would be to fly into Paris and then take the high-speed train to Amsterdam. From there it would be best to fly to Prague and then take the trains to Munich and Vienna.
Or you could do Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and the fly to Italy to visit Rome or Florence along with Venice. Actually, Venice is small enough that you can visit it in a day or two, and you can see Florence in two days as well. I hope this helps and I’ll be happy to answer any other questions if you have them. -Roger
Your article states that the winds off the Pacific keep Lisbon cool.
Atlantic, surely.
Regards
PB
Paul,
Thank you for this. I’ve fixed the mistake and I appreciate you taking the time. -Roger
Can u please suggest a itinerary for travel to Spain in October for 10 days
Nikita,
Normally I don’t do this, but I’m in a good mood. You might have a look at my main article on European itineraries for 1 to 3 weeks, which has more information.
With 10 days I’d fly into Barcelona and spend 3 nights there and then take a high-speed train to Madrid for 3 nights. You could then take a train to Granada for 2 nights and then a train to Seville for your final 2 nights. From Seville you could fly back to Barcelona for your flight home. There are obviously many other ways of doing this, but to me this one is the most filled with top highlights. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Great article….planning a 2 wk trip with my husband this Oct I A to Europe..Hv been to Seychelles South Africa and Kenya..plz recommend few must see cities in Netgerlands-germany-Switzerland-italy…Too much on our platter ??
M A,
If you’ve got 14 days in Europe I would suggest choosing 4 or 5 different cities to visit, and hopefully ones that are within easy train rides of each other. You might find some ideas on this article about Europe itinerary planning. There are suggestions for all of those countries and places that are easy to add on.
You could start in Amsterdam for 3 nights and then take a train to Berlin for 3 nights. You could then fly to Interlaken for 2 or 3 nights and then take a train to Venice for about 24 hours and then a train to Florence for 2 nights and then a train to Rome for your last 3 nights. That would be the fastest way to see all of the places on your list, and even then you’d feel like you were rushing. I’m happy to help more if you have further questions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
Going through your replies and will like your help for 3 families trip with 3 kids (age between 2-8) in October first half from India . We have been to Switzerland earlier in aug month and wheather was really good. We are planning for 8 days holiday and wanted your advise where temperatures will not below 3-4 degrees and cities/places will be comfortable to travel with kids. We don’t want beach destinations. Is Vienna/Budapest/Salzburg ok to travel or you can suggest any other options…
Thanks for your help.
ND,
Actually, Vienna-Salzburg-Budapest would be a great trip. Those three cities are all quite different from each other and they should have pleasant weather in early October. I think there might have been a typo when you wrote “where temperatures will not below 3-4 degrees”. Can you clarify what you meant?
I wrote an article not long ago about the best family-vacation cities in Europe, so that might help a bit. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Going on a European trip in September /October 2019, Need some information please, thought about a river cruise in Europe.
Corrie,
I’ve researched European river cruises quite a bit, but have yet to experience one myself so I don’t have much on the website about them. I think the Rhine cruises and Danube cruises are the most popular, though there are many smaller lines that do smaller rivers in France as well. I wish I could help you more. -Roger
Hi Roger,
Thanks for the list. We( myself, wife and our two daughters ,elder aged 2 years while the younger onr will be 4 months) are planning a euro trip from 27 Oct to 11 Nov. We’re a little apprehensive about the weather keeping the age of our daughters in mind. Based on your experience, could you suggest cities to visit. We are looking for a slow paced relaxed trip which gives us time to enjoy the beauty.
Thanks in advance