October In Europe – 17 Great Locations For 2024

October in Europe is probably one of the best times to be in the continent! It isn’t fall yet. The weather is perfect and you can head out into the numerous national parks or just explore the cities.

October is a great time to avoid the crowds. The crazy summer tourists have flown the coup. The fall tourists haven’t yet begun to arrive. There aren’t many people queuing at the monuments, the prices of of accommodation aren’t phenomenal and the parks are still a great place to explore since the weather is good.

Europe being Europe is pretty diverse. You have the mountains which start becoming cooler. The south of the continent is still warm. But the north is definitely cooler.

Here are some epic places that should be on your list if you plan on exploring October in Europe.

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October In Europe – Table Of Content

• Zurich, Switzerland
• Bern, Switzerland
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Oslo, Norway
• Bruges, Belgium
• Soca Valley, Slovenia
• Naples, Italy
• Tuscany, Italy
• Sicily, Italy
• Soriano nel Cimino, Italy
• Vilnus, Lithuania
• Aix-en-Provence, France
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Berlin, Germany
• Cork, Ireland 
• Dublin, Ireland
• Marseille, France

1. Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich is a great location to spend October in Europe.

Location: Zurich, Switzerland

Temperatures in Zurich, Switzerland in October:

Low: 8°C / 46.4°F

High: 15°C / 59°F

Getting There: Fly Directly into the Zurich International Airport and take a 15-minute train into the city.

Where To Stay: Storchen Zurich, a 5-star hotel on the water

A great place to visit in Europe during the month of October is Zurich, Switzerland. Amongst locals, the city is known for its bustling financial district, but for tourists, it’s known for its stunning views of the Alps and Lake Zurich!

Visitors to Zurich in October will be rewarded with crisp autumn weather perfect for exploring the city. Temperatures range from moderately cool to cold with highs in the high 50s°F, so you’ll want to come prepared for colder weather. But, the colder weather doesn’t mean there’s a lack of activities to do!

For instance, an event that should be on every film and art lover’s list is the Zurich Film Festival. At the end of September and the beginning of October, this event brings together tens of thousands of film professionals and enthusiasts from all over the world to watch around 160 films!

But, if you’re looking for something that will get your heart racing and surely be an experience of a lifetime, consider going paragliding and taking in the stunning landscape from an aerial view! 

So, if you’re ready to take in the beauty of Switzerland and want to experience the great outdoors, consider planning your next vacation to Zurich!

By Kristin From Global Travel Escapades

2. Bern, Switzerland

Bern is an epic place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Bern, Switzerland

Temperatures in Bern, Switzerland in October:

Low: 6°C / 42.8°F

High: 14°C / 57.2°F

Getting there: Take a train from Zurich to Bern (travel time is 1 hour)

Where to stay in Bern: Hotel Savoy

Visiting Bern in October is a great way to experience all the city has to offer. The cooler temperatures make for great walking weather and you can explore some of the picturesque streets, parks, and squares. 

Make sure to visit the Old City (Altstadt) on your Bern itinerary. This UNESCO site is full of cobblestone streets winding between sandstone facades adorned with centuries-old gables. Take your time to explore the many shops, cafes and restaurants that make up this charming area of Bern.

At the center of Bern stands the Zytglogge Tower, an iconic clock tower dating back to 1220. Be sure to take a walk around the tower to admire its intricate details. The nearby Rose Garden is another must-see spot, offering beautiful views of the city and a variety of rose varieties for you to admire.

October also brings with it a number of popular festivals that celebrate Bern’s culture and history. Participate in the wine festival in October – Festival del Vino, or enjoy laser shows at Parliament Square! 

With its rich history and beautiful architecture, Bern in October is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to explore the Swiss capital in the cooler months. 

By Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew

3. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is such a pretty location to spend October in Europe.

Location: Istanbul, Turkey 

Temperatures in Istanbul in October:

Low: 13°C / 55.4°F

High: 20°C / 68°F

Getting There: Fly into the brand-new Istanbul International Airport (IGA). It’s a major international flight hub so you can easily find a flight from almost anywhere. 

Where To Stay: Ikiz Konak Boutique Hotel. It’s located in a great neighbourhood, Kadikoy, has beautifully decorated and spacious rooms and is within walking distance of some of Istanbul’s best shopping and restaurants. 

October is the best month to visit Istanbul. The weather is warm and pleasant, but there are far fewer tourists roaming about. This means you can explore Istanbul’s many colourful neighbourhoods without the crowds, where you’ll find plenty of vibrant outdoor cafes and restaurants. 

As the capital of the former Ottoman Empire, Istanbul is jam-packed with exciting sights and activities. Start your visit exploring the historic district of Sultanahmet, which houses the city’s most impressive attractions including Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern and the Blue Mosque. 

While you’re in the area, be sure to take in a Whirling Dervish show and spend an afternoon relaxing in a hammam (a Turkish bath). There’s no better way to finish off a day of sightseeing!

October is a great time to take a boat cruise along the Bosphorus, as the colours of the leaves reflect beautifully in the water. Plus, cruising along the river is a great way to take in more of the city’s big sights, such as the Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Rumeli Fortress, Maiden’s Tower and the Bosphorus Bridge.

October is also the best time to take a day trip to discover the Princes Islands in the Sea of Marmara. Cars are banned on the islands, so you can explore at your leisure by foot or bicycle.

In summer the islands can get very crowded, but in October, you’re more likely to enjoy the idyllic, peaceful nature for which they are known. 

By Dotti From Travel Oasis

4. Oslo, Norway

If you are looking for an interesting place to spend October in Europe, consider Oslo!

Location:  Oslo, Norway

Temperatures In Oslo, Norway In October:

Low: 2°C / 36°F

High: 10°C / 50°F

Getting There: There are several ways to get to Oslo.  First you can fly into Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL).  Alternatively, trains and ferries are also available if you are traveling from nearby countries.  Finally, many cruise ships also stop in Oslo but will only give you a quick taste of all the city has to offer.

Where To Stay: Karl Johan Hotel is centrally located for easy exploring and offers free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

Oslo, Norway is a city worth visiting in Europe in October because the temperatures are still mild, and you can enjoy beautiful fall foliage. 

One of the best places to enjoy the fall colors is in Vigeland Sculpture Park.  You will see the wonderful statues, which depict life, artfully in front of tall trees with vibrant colors in their leaves.  

Alternatively, you could also take a cruise along Oslo Fjord to get a different perspective of the colors of the city or take a stroll through Palace Park (located near the Royal Palace).  

Other popular things to do in Oslo include visiting the many museums (such as the Fram, Munch, and Viking Ship) and touring Akershus Fortress. 

If you want to learn more about the cultural history of Norway, then make sure to stop by the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History to explore the original buildings found throughout the country and dating back to the 1700’s.  

Additionally, Oslo is a great base to do some long day tours to see some of the other nearby fjords.  Tours are available to Sognefjord, Flam, and Tyri fjord.  Of course, there is also plenty to do within the city of Oslo as well.  

October in Oslo will bring fewer crowds, which allows for a more authentic experience.  You may also find better deals on flights and hotel stays as well as shorter lines to the main attractions.

Oslo is perfect for both a quick getaway or longer stay and hopefully, you see why Oslo is a fantastic place to visit in October.

By Kristin Secor From World on Wheels Blog

5. Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is an interesting place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Bruges, Belgium

Temperatures in Bruges, Belgium in October:

Low: 9°C / 48.2°F

High: 15°C / 59°F

Getting There: Bruges is easily accessible by train from London, Amsterdam, Paris, Brussels, Ghent and Antwerp.

Where To Stay: Staying in the heart of the medieval centre is the best location to be surrounded by cafes, restaurants and all of the tourist attractions of Bruges. 

The historic city of Bruges is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the main tourist destinations in Belgium. Full of fascinating history and stunning architecture, it’s easy to see why this charming city is so popular.

During the summer months of June – August, the narrow streets of Bruges become overcrowded with tourists. For minimal crowds and reasonable weather, a great time to plan your trip to Bruges is during October. 

With temperatures ranging from 10°C – 20°C, you can comfortably sightsee with a fraction of the crowds.

The medieval centre of Bruges is compact and easily walkable making it possible to see all of the main highlights in one day. Taking a day trip to Bruges from any of the major European cities listed above is a great way to visit Bruges. 

There are also plenty of activities and nice restaurants to keep you busy for a weekend break or longer.

One of the top attractions that can’t be missed in Bruges is taking a scenic cruise on the canals. This gives you a chance to escape the busy streets and get a different perspective of the city’s historic buildings and bridges. 

Other must-sees in Bruges include the Belfry of Bruges, Market Square, and of course indulging in freshly made Belgian waffles. 

By Ann From The Road Is Life

6. Soca Valley, Slovenia

Soca valley is a great location to spend October in Europe!

Location: Located in northwestern Slovenia, just east of the Italian region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Slovenia’s Soca Valley is one of the most naturally gorgeous places on earth, and a paradise for outdoor lovers and adventure travelers.

Getting There: Getting there takes some time, but all the better to enjoy the region’s amazing views. Most travelers fly into Ljubljana, rent a car and drive, however there are public buses that can take you there and back in the same day.

But you need to time to really explore the magical landscape that inspired “The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian”. 

Where To Stay: Base yourself in Bovec at the Hotel Boka, a well-established hotel that’s a good value and centrally-located.

The local azure rivers and valleys are brimming with hiking trails for all levels.  

But the big attraction in the Soca Valley is Triglav National Park, which offers canyoning, kayaking, whitewater rafting, climbing, camping, and ziplining for the adventurous. There’s plenty to go around without repeating the same activity twice.

History lovers will appreciate the amount of WWI and WWII history there is to experience. Trenches and other landscape modifications are still evident from the occupation of Nazi Germany, Fascist Italy and Hungary and the Kobarid Museum is a must-see.

October is an ideal time to visit the Soca Valley, when fall foliage is bright and colorful, and crowds are manageable.

By Lori TravelinMad

7. Naples, Italy

When it comes to October in Europe, it does not get better than Naples in Italy.

Location: Naples, Italy

Temperatures in Naples, Italy in October:

Low: 12.0°C / 53.6°F

High: 22.0°C / 71.6°F

Getting There: Aeroporto di Napoli-Capodichino (NAP) is the closest airport, and it’s only 5 minutes from the city center. You can take a bus from there to Naples Metropark, which runs on the hour, or use Uber to go straight to your accommodation.

You can also go by train from other places via Roma Termini, or take a boat cruise. Once there, there is an underground metro that’s easy to use for getting around, and that is one of the most aesthetic you’ll encounter, especially the Toledo station, which is considered the most beautiful in the world!

Where To stay: While Naples is relatively safe, there are districts that are better to stay in than others to more fully enjoy your time in the city. Centro Storico, which is in the eastern part of the center of Naples, is one of the best areas to stay in.

It’s basically an open-air museum with all the best sights right at your doorstep, plus amazing food. It’s also close to the metro.

Another fantastic area to make your base is Molo Carlo Piscane, where you can be near the ferry to go on day trips to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, plus get the amazing views. The area around Castel dell’Ovo is one of my favorite places to watch the sunset – specifically, at Pizzeria Antonio & Antonio, the best pizza I ate!

Naples in October is amazing – between the nearly perfect weather and thinner crowds, you’ll feel comfortable walking everywhere! Locals are friendly and glad to help with directions, so don’t be afraid to ask.

Naples is the third largest city in Italy, and the city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There is plenty to discover in Naples, from fabulous food (it’s the birthplace of pizza), to castles, museums, gorgeous churches and underground tours.

Since Naples is one of the most ancient continuously inhabited cities in the world, it’s amazing to discover where places have been continuously built on top of each other – there is a major colosseum, for example, but apartments exist within the structure!

There is also plenty of notable architecture to discover, as well as wandering the alleyways and shopping. Make sure to stop by Galleria Umberto I… and take photos of the two volcanoes that frame the city, Mt. Vesuvius and Campi Flegrei!

Naples is the perfect spot to stay while you day trip to ancient sites like Pompeii and Herculaneum, both of which are incredibly preserved because of Mt. Vesuvius’ eruption.

Beautiful coastal towns on the Amalfi Coast are just a train or boat ride away, and Naples is a more affordable place to stay while exploring.

By Sarah From MukikaPup’s Travel

8. Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany is such an amazing place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Tuscany, Italy

Temperature in October (Florence):

High 70°F / 21°C

Low 53°F / 12°C

Getting There: There are regional airports in Florence and Pisa that serve mainland Europe flights.

If you’re coming from overseas, you can either layover somewhere in Europe or fly direct to Rome or Milan and take a train or, better yet, rent a car to drive to Tuscany.

Where To Stay: With so many incredible destinations in Tuscany, it’s hard to choose where to spend the night. Consider the medieval city of Siena as a home base or the hilltop town of San Gimignano, though it’s impossible to go wrong in Tuscany.

October is arguably the best time of year to explore the world-famous Tuscany province in Italy.

When the heavy summer tourist season winds down and the temperatures cool a bit, Tuscany offers visitors the perfect holiday. 

The region is most well-known for its rolling hills of vineyards, gorgeous medieval villages, and historical cities. 

The best way to see Tuscany is to rent a car and get out on the winding roads through the countryside.

The stunning city of Siena is located right in the heart of Tuscany and makes for a good place to base yourself. Between Siena and Florence, scenic back roads will take you through the Chianti region, which is Tuscany’s prime wine region, producing one of the world’s finest wines, Chianti Classico. 

Villas and castles stand atop hills overlooking the vineyards, many of them having their own wineries that you’re free to visit (prior arrangements required).  

As October ends, the grape vines start to change color, leading to incredible fall foliage across Tuscany. Be sure to properly take in the beauty of the countryside before continuing to Florence, the heart of the Renaissance. 

If you have time, try to stop by Pisa, San Gimignano, Volterra, and some smaller villages like Montefioralle, Monteriggioni, and Chiusdino. The beauty of Tuscany in the fall will warm your heart!

By Chris From Around The World With Me

9. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is such an amazing location to spend October in Europe.

Location: Sicily, Italy

Temperatures in Sicily, Italy in October:

Low: 14°C / 56°F

High: 21°C / 69°F

Getting There: Traveling to Sicily via plane, ferry, train or car is easy from all major cities in Italy like Rome, Naples, and Milan.

Where To Stay: 

Sicily, a beautiful island located in the Mediterranean Sea, rich in history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. 

It is the perfect destination to visit in October as the temperatures are still warm and pleasant, but not as hot as in the summer months.

There are many festivals and events taking place during October. The most famous is the Festival of Saint Agatha in Catania. It is also harvest season so you can enjoy the specialties such as fresh seafood, olives, grapes, and mushrooms.

This large island offers many different towns and cities to explore, each with its unique character and attractions. The most beautiful places in Sicily to stay will depend on your interests.

Palermo has lively markets, historic landmarks, and delicious street food. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and restaurants to explore. 

The historic city of Syracuse, once one of the most important cities in the ancient Greek world, is known for its archaeological sites, including the impressive Greek Theatre. 

Cefalù is a picturesque coastal town that offers beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and several hiking trails in the nearby Madonie Mountains, making it a great base for outdoor activities.

Agrigento is home to one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Sicily, the Valley of the Temples. 

In conclusion, October is a fantastic time to visit Sicily because of the pleasant weather, fewer crowds, lively festivals, delicious food, and beautiful natural scenery.

By Jolene from Wanderlust Storytellers

10. Soriano Nel Cimino, Italy

Soriano Nel Cimino is such an interesting place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Soriano Nel Cimino, Italy

Temperatures in Soriano Nel Cimino, Italy in October:

Low: 10°C / 50°F

High: 19°C / 66.2°F

Getting There: Although you can get there by taking the train from Rome Piazzale Flaminio to Viterbo, the most convenient way to reach there is by private car.

Where To Stay: The best place to stay in town is Hotel la Bastia, which is surrounded by woods and has an outdoor pool.

The town of Soriano nel Cimino is located in Northern Lazio in an area commonly known as the Tuscia region.

Soriano nel Cimino sits on the slopes of Mount Cimino, which, while not very high, is home to one of the largest monumental beech forests in Europe, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In autumn, this forest is colored with marvelous orange hues. If you travel to central Italy in October and November, visiting Soriano is one of the best things to do around Viterbo.

Next to the beech forest, which you reach by a hike of about an hour from the center of Soriano, or by a short drive, is the typical restaurant Baita la Faggeta. Here in autumn, you can try homemade pasta with mushroom sauces, especially porcini.

October is the month when Soriano del Cimino shows itself at its best. Every year, since the 14th century, the Chestnut Festival has been held in the town’s historic center.

It is a medieval historical festival attended by about 50.000 people from Italy and around the world.

In the main square and alleys of the town, you can enjoy parades in medieval costumes (sewn by local seamstresses), and tournaments of swordsmen and flag throwers.

Protagonists besides the local people are chestnuts, which abound in this area.

During the festival, you can taste chestnut dishes such as veggie and chestnut soup, gnocchi with chestnut ragout, beef and chestnut stew, and chestnut gelato.

Soriano nel Cimino is also characterized by a picturesque medieval old town with an ancient castle from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

By Annalise From Travel Connect Experience

11. Vilnus, Lithuania

Vilnius is an epic location to visit and spend October in Europe.

Location: Vilnius, Lithuania

Temperatures in Vilnius, Lithuania in October:

Low: 3°C / 37.4°F

High: 10°C / 50°F

Getting There: Most travelers will arrive to Vilnius at the Vilnius International Airport (VNO), which is only about 20 minutes from Old Town Vilnius. Alternately, Lithuania shares borders with Poland, Latvia, and Belarus for those who may drive in.

Where To Stay: The best area to stay is in Old Town Vilnius. This area is largely within walking distance to many of the main tourist sights.

Vilnius, Lithuania is a beautiful place to visit in October. As the air gets cool and crisp, the color of the leaves begins to glow in vibrant reds and yellows. And, the city slows down as the summer travelers are now long gone.

Vilnius has so many things to see and do, from historical museums to traditional eateries to medieval monuments. It is hands down one of the best places to visit in Lithuania!

This capital city is a unique blend of old and new. Here you can marvel at ornate Baroque facades, Gothic church spires and eye-catching murals. All of this sits right next to trendy cafes and art galleries, where you can sip on some coffee or enjoy thought-provoking artworks.

History buffs will enjoy the many historical museums and monuments, all telling tales of Lithuania’s past.

Old Town Vilnius truly offers something for everyone – make sure not to miss this extraordinary city!

By Monica from This Rare Earth

12. Aix-en-Provence, France

Aix-en-Provence is such an exciting to place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Aix-en-Provence, France

Temperatures in Aix-en-Provence, France in October:

Low: 8°C / 46.4°F

High: 20°C / 68°F

Getting There: The closest airport from Aix-en-Provence is the Marseille airport (MRS) which is only about 30 minutes by car or shuttle number 40 directly from the airport into Aix main bus station, from where you can walk into the historical center.

You can also fly into the Nice airport (NCE) but that airport is two hours away by car. If you are arriving from Paris or Lyon you can also take the TGV (high speed train). This train will get you from Paris into Aix in about three hours and from Lyon into Aix in about an hour.

But the high speed train station is about 15 minutes outside of Aix so you will still need to take a shuttle from there or a taxi.

Where To Stay: To enjoy the best of Aix-en-Provence, it is best to stay in the Old Town (centre historique d’Aix) or very close to it.

My favourite hotels are the Aquabella as it houses the Thermes Sextius spa inside it and has an outdoor pool with a garden restaurant and a wall surrounding the property dating back to Roman times.

Another great hotel, a bit further from the historical center is Le Pigonnet, a luxurious hotel with beautiful grounds. There are also plenty of holiday rentals in and around the historical center of Aix.

Aix-en-Provence, located in the south of France, is known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, a slower pace of life and olive groves that produce some of the finest olive oils in the world. 

One of the main reasons why it’s great to visit Aix-en-Provence in October is the weather. While the summer months can be scorching hot, October brings cooler temperatures and comfortable weather for outdoor activities. 

Visitors can enjoy exploring the city’s many landmarks and surrounding wineries without being overwhelmed by the heat.

October in Aix-en-Provence is an ideal time to explore the city and its attractions. As the shoulder season, it offers a great balance between tourist crowds and warm weather, making it perfect for sightseeing, shopping and taking in the sights of Provence.

And for nature lovers, there are also plenty of hikes and tours to take advantage of – all with beautiful views over Provence’s stunning landscapes.

One of the best outdoor activities in the Aix-en-Provence area during October is olive picking. During the autumn months, olives ripen in Provence and the harvest season takes place mainly in October. 

If you are a lover of nature, history, and gastronomy, taking part in an olive harvest tour in the area of Aix-en-Provence during October could be a memorable experience. Harvesting olives in Provence is a tradition that dates back to Roman times, and it is still sometimes done by hand, just like in the old days. 

So if you are looking for some-slower pace activities, Aix-en-Provence is a place to visit in October.

By Aixoise from All About Aix

13. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a pretty place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Dubrovnik, Croatia

Temperatures in Dubrovnik, Croatia in October:

Low: 15°C / 59°F

High: 22°C / 71.6°F

Getting There: You can fly directly to Dubrovnik from many destinations all over Europe or arrive overland from numerous places in Croatia as well as from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro

Where To Stay: Dubrovnik Old Town Apartments

Dubrovnik is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe and it’s famous for a reason. 

While it’s packed with tourists in the summer months, October is a much better month to visit the town and enjoy all the great things to do in Dubrovnik. 

There won’t be that many people around (although don’t expect it to be totally empty) and the prices should be significantly lower too. 

If you are lucky with the weather you can still relax on a beach or even swim in the Adriatic Sea.

When exploring Dubrovnik start with the Old Town Walls – it’s a bit pricey attraction but worth the money as the view from up there is just splendid. 

The whole circuit is almost 2 kilometers and it’s recommended to walk it all to admire a different panorama of Dubrovnik Old Town and beyond from each angle. 

Then just wander around the walled, picture-perfect Old Town with its narrow, winding lanes and stairs leading to the upper parts, beautiful centuries-old palaces, and monasteries with charming backyards. 

Don’t miss the areas outside of the Old Town, such as Fort Lovrijenac or Mount Srd (where you can get by cable car) – not only both are interesting places to visit, but they also offer some amazing views of the town and the Adriatic Sea. 

Dubrovnik’s beauty was appreciated also by filmmakers who used it as a filming location for numerous movies, the most popular being “Game of Thrones” – you might spot some familiar scenery when wandering around. 

By Kamila From My Wanderlust

14. Berlin, Germany

Looking for a place that is steeped in history. Berlin is a great place to visit and spend October in Europe.

Location: Berlin, Germany

Temperatures in Berlin, Germany in October:

Low: 6°C / 42.8°F

High: 14°C / 57.2°F

Getting There: Berlin is well connected to other parts of Germany and Europe by train and bus. You can also fly there from many cities around Europe.

There are flights from the US, but not as many direct flights as you might hope. To get to Berlin from the US, you will most likely have to connect somewhere.

Where To Stay: Especially in October, the 25Hours Hotel is a good option since it offers views over Tiergarten Park and the Zoo. Book a “jungle” room to really enjoy seeing the colorful leaves from above.

October is one of the best times to go to Berlin for many reasons. The weather is usually mild, with the hottest summer days gone and the winter chill still a ways off.

The big crowds of tourists have thinned, so you’ll get to see the sights without so many other people at the attractions.

During autumn in Berlin, the fall foliage is simply gorgeous, and the colors are usually at their best in October. Some of the best places for photos of the leaves are Tiergarten, Charlottenburg Palace, the government district, and Museum Island. Climb the Victory Column for gorgeous views over Tiergarten Park.

October 3rd is Reunification Day in Germany. This day celebrates East and West Germany becoming one country again, which was in 1990, almost a year after the fall of the Berlin Wall. It’s a festive day to be in Berlin, and each year there are different events.

Another great reason to visit Berlin in October is the Festival of Lights. Although the dates change every year, most years it takes place in October, and in 2023, it’s October 6-15.

After the sun goes down, artist light displays are projected onto famous buildings all around the city, such as Brandenburg Gate, Berliner Dom, the TV Tower, and more.

By Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

15. Cork, Ireland 

Cork is a great place to spend October in Europe especially if you love jazz.

Location: Cork, Ireland

Temperatures in Cork, Ireland in October:

Low: 8°C / 46.4°F

High: 14°C / 57.2°F

Getting There: Cork City is the second biggest city in Ireland and is easily accessible. There are good public rail and bus links to other Irish cities.

Cork Airport is located a short distance outside the city. There are also ferry connections to France and Spain directly to and from Cork.

Where To Stay: In order to be in the heart of the city and experience the most of the Guinness Jazz Festival, a stay in the Metropole Hotel is highly recommended. This charming hotel has a convenient location right in the city center.

Guinness Jazz Festival, one of the top annual events in Cork, is held on the last weekend of October each year. Live music gigs are spread across different venues in the city creating a vibrant atmosphere.

This internationally renowned music event attracts audiences from far and wide.

Cork is also known for its vibrant food culture. The English Market in the heart of the city offers a wide variety of specialty produce and gourmet foods in a Victorian market setting.

October is a great time to wander around the grounds of University College Cork. The Glucksman Art Gallery, Harry Clark stained glass windows and the Ogham Stones (stones with ancient writing) are some of the main highlights.

It is worth mentioning that the Cork coastline is also breathtaking. The beaches in Cork are well known and attract visitors all year round.

By Emer And Nils From Lets Go Ireland

16. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin has some interesting things to do and it makes a great spot to spend October in Europe.

Location: Dublin, Ireland

Temperature in Dublin, Ireland in October:

Low: 7˚C/44.6˚F

High: 14˚C/57.2˚F

Getting There: Dublin is the capital of Ireland and has a major international airport. Flights that arrive at Dublin Airport include direct flights from the US, Europe, South Africa, the UAE and beyond.

From the airport, there are regular bus services direct to the city center or you can take a cab.

Where To Stay: Dublin has a wealth of accommodation options for visitors to the city and staying central is ideal for those wanting to be in the hub of it all.

Locations in Dublin 2 and Dublin 4 are ideal and hotels around the IFSC and Dublin Docklands are also good choices as they have a Luas line that will bring them into the city center.

Dublin is a great choice for those looking to visit somewhere in Europe in October. With both the summer and shoulder season crowds gone, this is the perfect time of year to visit the city.

The temperatures are still pleasant and haven’t turned chilly yet, and with an average of 11 hours of daylight, there is plenty of time to enjoy the city and sightsee. As always in Ireland, rain is never far away but if you go prepared, you can have a blast in Dublin in October.

All tourist attractions such as Kilmainham Gaol, the Books of Kells, Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral remain open and with fewer crowds, are far more enjoyable to visit than during the peak summer months.

To explore the city you could take a walking tour, visit some of the distilleries in the city or if you love food, join one of the many food tours of Dublin and eat your way around the city while discovering some hidden gems.

Depending on when you visit during October, you might be lucky enough to be in the city to enjoy the Bram Stoker Festival, an annual festival celebrating the life and works of this famous Irish writer.

Day trips further afield are also an option, such as Glendalough, the historical monastic site located just over an hour south of Dublin City Centre. Other places to visit on day trips from Dublin in October include the Rock of Cashel and Newgrange.

If you are looking for somewhere in Europe to visit in October, take a trip to Dublin and enjoy exploring the city without the summer crowds or go further afield to discover more of Ireland while using the city as a base.

By Cath, from Travel Around Ireland

17. Marseille, France

Marseille is a lovely place to spend October in Europe.

Location: Marseille, France

Temperatures in Marseille, France in October:

Low: 13°C / 55.4°F

High: 21°C / 69.8°F

Getting There: Marseille airport is well serviced with airlines flying direct from many European cities. 

Those traveling from further afield could also look into flying into Paris, with a connecting flight to Marseille, or taking the TGV train from Paris.

Where To Stay: Choose any of the great hotels around Le Vieux Port, or in Le Panier district to be able to move around and explore the city on foot.

Marseille is a vibrant city that’s bursting with life at all times of the year. Autumn brings slightly cooler temperatures than summer, but the days are still bright and clear. 

October, in particular, is an excellent time to visit France’s second city, as you can still expect beach-worthy weather, but fewer crowds to contend with at the city’s famous attractions.

The best things to do in Marseille include strolling around Le Vieux Port to take in the traditional sailing boats, bustling fish market, upmarket restaurants and take a ride on the ferris wheel to see the city from above. 

MuCEM, perhaps Marseille’s most famous museum, also resides here and is a fabulous place to while away a few hours. 

Nearby, Le Panier is Marseille’s oldest district, and where you can see the traditional buildings, browse the markets, and eat in authentic cafes and restaurants.

Marseille is also home to some amazing beaches, and all you have to do to find one is take a stroll along the corniche until you find a quiet cove, or languid stretch of sand that takes your fancy. 

Or, if you like hiking, the nearby Calanques National Park is an excellent place for both stretching your legs, and stopping for a snorkel.

Finally, don’t miss the taking in the sunset from Notre-Dame de la Garde, or watching it with a drink and live music at the rowing club.

By Nadine From Le Long Weekend

If you are looking forward to spending October in Europe, there are loads of great options. All you have to do is find inspiration from the list above. From Marseille to Zurich, the options are endless.

Do you have any other locations that you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!

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