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The best places to visit in October in Europe are a mix of vibrant autumn landscapes, charming cities, and cultural wonders. As summer crowds fade, destinations like Paris, Prague, and Bavaria glow with golden hues. Enjoy the Northern Lights in Norway, explore Tuscany’s harvest season, or witness Oktoberfest in Germany. Southern gems like Santorini and Seville offer warm weather with fewer tourists. Whether you seek history, nature, or festivals, October is a perfect time to explore Europe’s beauty. Get ready for crisp air, stunning scenery, and unforgettable experiences.
14 Amazing Places To Visit In October In Europe. Bon Voyage
Experience the best of autumn with a stop at the top 14 places to visit in October in Europe:
1. Paris, France
Known as “The City of Light,” Paris is a centre for fashion, art, and culture. Beyond iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, visitors can explore the bohemian charm of Montmartre, stroll along the Seine, and indulge in world-class cuisine. Autumn in Paris offers milder weather and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to visit museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
Major Attraction: Musée d’Orsay
Nearest Airport: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Nearest Railway Station: Gare du Nord
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Paris
2. Prague, Czech Republic
Photo: Martin Krchnacek / Unsplash
Prague, known as “The City of a Hundred Spires,” enchants visitors with its preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The top places to visit in Prague include Charles Bridge, adorned with baroque statues. It connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town, offering panoramic views of the Vltava River. The Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square is a testament to the city’s rich history and engineering prowess.
Major Attraction: Old Town Square
Nearest Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Nearest Railway Station: Praha hlavní nádraží
3. Bavaria, Germany
Photo: Mario Dobelmann / Unsplash
Bavaria, in southeastern Germany, is renowned for its scenic landscapes, historic towns, and cultural traditions. The Romantic Road offers a journey through medieval villages like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, characterised by half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Neuschwanstein Castle, perched atop a rugged hill, inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle and is a testament to fairy-tale architecture. Munich, the Bavarian capital, blends modernity with tradition, evident in its historic Marienplatz and vibrant Viktualienmarkt.
Major Attraction: Neuschwanstein Castle
Nearest Airport: Munich Airport (MUC)
Nearest Railway Station: München Hauptbahnhof
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Germany
4. Tromsø, Norway
Photo: Bjørn Are With Andreassen / Unsplash
Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle, is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Arctic.” One of the most popular things to do in Tromso is witnessing the Northern Lights, especially during the clear autumn nights. The Arctic Cathedral, with its distinctive architecture, is a highlight for visitors. Fjellheisen Cable Car offers panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains, particularly stunning when adorned in autumn colours.
Major Attraction: Northern Lights observation
Nearest Airport: Tromsø Airport (TOS)
Nearest Railway Station: No railway station; accessible by bus or car
5. Tuscany, Italy
Photo: Luca Micheli / Unsplash
Tuscany is a region celebrated for its rolling hills, historic cities, and culinary delights. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, boasts masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David and the architectural marvel of the Duomo. The medieval city of Siena is known for its fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and the annual Palio horse race. The Val d’Orcia region, with its picturesque landscapes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has inspired countless artists.
Major Attraction: Chianti wine region
Nearest Airport: Florence Airport (FLR)
Nearest Railway Station: Firenze Santa Maria Novella
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Tuscany
6. Santorini, Greece
Photo: AXP Photography / Unsplash
Santorini, part of the Cyclades islands, is famed for its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets. There are many places to visit in Santorini for an enchanting vacation. The cliffside town of Oia offers panoramic views of the caldera, especially mesmerising at dusk. The archaeological site of Akrotiri provides insights into the ancient Minoan civilisation that once thrived on the island. Santorini’s unique beaches, such as the Red Beach and Kamari Beach, are characterised by volcanic sands.
Major Attraction: Oia village
Nearest Airport: Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
Nearest Ferry Terminal: Athinios Ferry Port
7. Seville, Spain
Photo: Taisia Karaseva / Unsplash
Seville, the capital of Andalusia, is a city rich in history, flamenco music, and architectural wonders. The Alcázar of Seville, a royal palace, showcases a blend of Mudéjar architecture and lush gardens. The Seville Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals globally, houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. The Giralda, originally a minaret, now serves as the cathedral’s bell tower, offering expansive city views.
Major Attraction: Alcázar of Seville
Nearest Airport: Seville Airport (SVQ)
Nearest Railway Station: Sevilla Santa Justa
Suggested Read: Exciting Things To Do In Seville For Culture, Adventure, And Relaxation
8. Edinburgh
Photo: Kate Bielinski / Unsplash
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. The Royal Mile, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is lined with shops, eateries, and historic sites. One of the top places to visit in Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcanic peak, offers hiking opportunities with panoramic city views. The city’s festivals, notably the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, celebrate arts and culture on a global scale. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Europe in October.
Major Attraction: Edinburgh Castle
Nearest Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Nearest Railway Station: Edinburgh Waverley Station
9. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a stunning city divided by the Danube River, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other. In October, the city’s autumn foliage enhances the beauty of its historic landmarks. The weather is cool but pleasant, making it ideal for exploring its thermal baths, castles, and vibrant streets. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene. Budapest is also regarded as one of the cheapest places in Europe to visit in October, largely due to its wide range of budget-friendly hotels and low cost of food & drinks.
Major Attraction: The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is a must-visit.
Nearest Airport: Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, approximately 16 km from the city centre.
Nearest Railway Station: Budapest Keleti Railway Station, the city’s main international and domestic rail hub
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Budapest
10. Bruges, Belgium
Photo: Despina Galani / Unsplash
Bruges, sometimes called the “Venice of the North,” is a city with cobblestone streets, canals, and mediaeval buildings. In October, the autumnal colours enhance its romantic ambience, making it an ideal destination for cultural exploration and culinary delights. Bruges is renowned for its lace-making heritage, with shops and museums showcasing intricate designs. The Groeningemuseum houses an impressive collection of Flemish art, including works by Jan van Eyck.
Major Attraction: The Belfry of Bruges
Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU)
Nearest Railway Station: Bruges Railway Station
11. Rome, Italy
Photo: Bert Kaufmann /! Wikimedia Commons
October in Rome offers gentle autumn days and the famed Ottobrate Romane, when clear skies and mild temperatures averaging 18 °C make exploring ancient sites a delight. Summer crowds have thinned, so you can wander the Colosseum and Roman Forum under softer light, sip espresso on tranquil piazzas or join a free walking tour to uncover hidden lanes and local tales. Parks such as Villa Borghese glow with fall colours, and cooler evenings are perfect for al fresco dining beneath softly lit arches. This mix of mild weather and cultural splendour makes Rome an unmissable October destination.
Major Attraction: Colosseum
Nearest Airport: Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Roma Termini
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Rome
12. Loire Valley, France
Photo: Suavemarimagno / Wikimedia Commons
In October, the Loire Valley unveils a tapestry of warm, autumnal shades across its rolling vineyards and graceful châteaux. Early mornings often arrive with mist drifting above the Loire River, lending a dream-like quality to Azay-le-Rideau and Cheverny. Summer crowds have dispersed, making it easy to hire a bicycle and explore quiet country lanes or wander market squares overflowing with crisp apples, pumpkins and local goat’s cheese. As dusk falls, riverside inns serve hearty Loire dishes paired with freshly bottled sparkling rosé, making up for a perfect European autumn escape.
Major Attraction: Château de Chambord
Nearest Airport: Tours Val de Loire Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tours Station
13. Barcelona, Spain
Photo: Reda Kerbush / Wikimedia Commons
October in Barcelona has mild weather and fewer tourists, making it the perfect time to explore this vibrant city. You can wander through Gaudí’s masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Casa Batlló, without the long queues of summer. Stroll the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter, pause for coffee at La Boqueria market, then head down to Barceloneta for a seaside walk under clear skies. Day trips to Montserrat or the Sitges Film Festival offer variety, while cosy tapas bars stay open late. With its blend of art, culture and laid-back autumn days, Barcelona shines in October.
Major Attraction: Sagrada Família
Nearest Airport: Barcelona-El Prat Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Barcelona Sants
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Barcelona
14. Algarve, Portugal
Photo: Tobi 87 / Wikimedia Commons
Autumn casts a golden glow over the Algarve, where sunny warmth lingers and the shorelines lie uncrowded. Daily highs reach around 27 °C, which is ideal for a refreshing swim or a cliff-top wander. Historic towns like Tavira and Faro gently hum with bustling markets, cosy cafés and seafood restaurants, all without the summer queues. As evenings turn cooler, savvy travellers find great deals on flights and lodgings, making it simple to discover hidden coves and rugged cliffs at a relaxed pace. The Algarve in October is a sunlit, unhurried European retreat.
Major Attraction: Benagil Cave
Nearest Airport: Faro Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Faro Station
Exploring the best places to visit in October in Europe offers a mix of stunning autumn colours, cultural festivals, and fewer crowds. Whether it’s Oktoberfest in Germany, Tuscany’s golden vineyards, or the Northern Lights in Tromsø, October is a magical time to travel. Pack your bags, embrace the autumn charm, and experience Europe at its finest. Make the best memories of your life with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Matthias Schröder / Unsplash
