12 Best Countries to Visit in October
October is one of the most rewarding months for travel. In much of the Northern Hemisphere, the weather is comfortably cool, autumn foliage is in full swing, and crowds thin out after the summer rush. In the Southern Hemisphere, spring begins to awaken the landscapes with vibrant colors and mild temperatures.
This sweet spot between high and low seasons means lower prices, stunning scenery, and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re drawn to nature, culture, or history, October offers endless opportunities.
Here are 12 countries that truly shine in October.
1. Japan – Autumn Leaves and Cultural Charm
Japan in October is a masterpiece of seasonal beauty. As the autumn foliage descends from the northern mountains to the southern regions, parks and temple gardens are painted in rich shades of red, gold, and orange. Kyoto and Nara become particularly enchanting, with historic shrines framed by fiery maple trees.
The weather is pleasantly cool, making it comfortable for exploring cities, hiking in the Japanese Alps, or soaking in outdoor hot springs. October is also festival season, with events like the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto bringing history to life through elaborate parades.
2. Italy – Food, Wine, and Fall Beauty
Italy’s autumn is a feast for the senses. October marks the grape harvest in regions like Tuscany and Piedmont, offering travelers the chance to enjoy vineyard tours and wine tastings. Truffle season is also in full swing, especially in Alba, where you can savor one of the world’s most prized delicacies.
Crowds are smaller compared to summer, yet the weather remains mild, particularly in the south. Strolling through Rome’s ancient ruins, enjoying a gondola ride in Venice, or hiking along the Amalfi Coast feels even more special without the heat and peak-season rush.
3. Nepal – Trekking Paradise in the Himalayas
October in Nepal is simply magical, offering crystal-clear mountain views, pleasant weather, and vibrant cultural festivals. It’s the heart of the trekking season, attracting adventurers from across the globe. The skies are mostly free of monsoon haze, the trails are dry, and the surrounding landscapes burst with autumn colors, making it one of the best months to explore the Himalayas.
Among Nepal’s legendary trekking routes, the Annapurna Circuit Trek is a true classic. This multi-day journey takes you through diverse landscapes, from subtropical valleys and terraced farmlands to high mountain passes with panoramic views of peaks like Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Manaslu.
For trekkers seeking a quieter, less commercialized adventure, the Manaslu Circuit Trek is equally rewarding. Circling the world’s eighth-highest peak, this trek combines raw Himalayan beauty with an authentic rural experience.
Whether you choose the Annapurna Circuit or the Manaslu Circuit—or perhaps combine them—October in Nepal delivers unmatched trekking conditions, incredible diversity, and a connection with nature that is both humbling and exhilarating.
4. Greece – Sun, Sea, and Ancient Wonders
October in Greece combines the beauty of summer with the comfort of autumn. The intense heat of July and August has faded, but the Aegean Sea is still warm enough for swimming. This is the time to explore the whitewashed villages of Santorini, the archaeological marvels of Athens, and the untouched charm of islands like Naxos and Milos.
Olive harvest season begins, and local tavernas serve freshly pressed olive oil alongside traditional dishes. With fewer tourists, you can wander through ancient ruins, hike coastal trails, and relax on beaches in a peaceful atmosphere.
5. Morocco – From Desert Sands to Mountain Peaks
October is one of the best months to visit Morocco, as the searing summer heat gives way to pleasant daytime temperatures. In Marrakech, the souks are alive with colors, scents, and textures, while the Atlas Mountains offer crisp air and scenic hikes.
It’s also the perfect time to embark on a desert journey to the Sahara. Nights under the stars in a desert camp are magical, with cool evenings and warm days making camel treks comfortable. Coastal cities like Essaouira also shine with mild weather and laid-back vibes.
6. Canada – Autumn Colors at Their Finest
Canada’s fall foliage in October is nothing short of spectacular. Regions like Quebec, Ontario, and Nova Scotia are ablaze with reds, oranges, and yellows. The crisp air and clear skies make it a photographer’s dream.
In Quebec City and Montreal, you can enjoy cultural festivals, cozy cafés, and scenic walks along historic streets. If you prefer the great outdoors, the national parks of Banff and Jasper in Alberta offer serene hikes, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking mountain scenery before winter sets in.
7. Spain – Cultural Festivals and Comfortable Weather
Spain in October offers a blend of warm Mediterranean days and cooler inland nights. It’s a fantastic time to explore Barcelona’s architectural gems, wander through Seville’s historic streets, or relax on the beaches of the Costa del Sol.
This month is also rich in cultural events, including the Fiesta Nacional de España and various regional harvest festivals. Food lovers can enjoy freshly harvested olives, mushrooms, and chestnuts, as well as seasonal seafood along the coasts.
8. Australia – Spring in Full Bloom
In the Southern Hemisphere, October is springtime in Australia. Wildflowers blanket Western Australia, Sydney’s parks burst with color, and the Great Barrier Reef offers excellent diving conditions.
Cities like Melbourne and Brisbane enjoy mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor dining, street festivals, and coastal walks. For wildlife lovers, it’s also a prime time to spot whales along the coast or kangaroos in open fields.
9. Portugal – Coastal Charm and Historic Cities
Portugal in October is warm enough to enjoy its stunning coastline without the crowds of summer. The Algarve’s golden beaches are peaceful, while Lisbon and Porto offer cultural richness, historic architecture, and delicious cuisine.
It’s also a great time for wine lovers, as the Douro Valley’s vineyards are in harvest mode. You can take scenic boat cruises along the river and sample world-class wines. The mild weather makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
10. South Africa – Safari Season
October marks the end of the dry season in South Africa, making it one of the best months for wildlife viewing. Animals gather around waterholes, and vegetation is sparse, improving visibility during safaris in Kruger National Park and other reserves.
The weather is warm but not overly hot, and Cape Town begins to bloom with spring flowers. It’s also an excellent month for whale watching along the southern coast.
11. France – Countryside Escapes and Cultural Delights
France in October offers the best of both worlds: cultural vibrancy in the cities and tranquility in the countryside. Paris is less crowded, with shorter lines at major attractions like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. In regions like Burgundy and Bordeaux, vineyards are alive with harvest activity, offering wine tours and tastings.
The Loire Valley’s châteaux are surrounded by autumn colors, making them even more photogenic. Coastal areas like Nice and Marseille enjoy mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
12. New Zealand – Adventure and Scenery
Spring in New Zealand means snow still dusts the mountaintops while valleys burst into bloom. October is a shoulder season, so popular spots like Milford Sound, Queenstown, and Rotorua are quieter and more affordable.
It’s an ideal month for hiking, kayaking, and exploring both North and South Islands. With fewer crowds, you can fully enjoy the country’s dramatic landscapes, from fjords to volcanic plateaus.
Final Thoughts
October is a sweet spot for travel — a time when weather conditions are favorable, crowds are lighter, and many destinations showcase their most beautiful seasonal landscapes. Whether you want to wander through ancient ruins in Greece, admire the fall foliage in Canada, or trek through the world’s tallest mountains in Nepal, there’s a perfect October destination for every traveler.
Nepal, with its legendary Annapurna Circuit Trek and Manaslu Circuit Trek, stands out as one of the most rewarding adventures of all. The combination of cultural encounters, dramatic Himalayan scenery, and the unbeatable October weather makes it a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
So, pack your bags, choose your country, and make October the month for unforgettable experiences.