October is a great time to take a vacation, with cooler weather and fewer crowds in many popular destinations. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous outdoor excursion, our list of top holiday destinations for October has something for everyone.
Top Holiday Destinations in October
Kyoto, Japan
October is a great time to visit Kyoto as the weather is mild and the autumn foliage is in full bloom. There are so many wonderful attractions to see in Kyoto during this time of year, but some of the best include Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine.
As for travel costs, October is considered the shoulder season in Kyoto, which means that prices for accommodations and transportation are generally more affordable than during the peak summer months. However, keep in mind that prices can still vary depending on your travel dates and the level of luxury you’re looking for.
One unique thing to do in Kyoto in October is to attend a tea ceremony. During this traditional Japanese ritual, you’ll have the opportunity to taste different varieties of green tea and sweets while learning about the history and culture of tea in Japan.
In terms of weather, October in Kyoto is generally quite pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius. It’s a good idea to bring layers as the mornings and evenings can be cooler, but the afternoons can be quite warm.
As for travel tips, we recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes as many of Kyoto’s attractions require a fair amount of walking. It’s also a good idea to book your accommodations and transportation in advance to ensure availability and secure the best prices. Lastly, don’t forget to try the local cuisine, including Kyoto-style sushi and traditional kaiseki cuisine!
Prague, Czech Republic
One of the must-see attractions is the Prague Castle, which is the largest ancient castle in the world. You can explore the various buildings within the castle complex, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Royal Palace. Another popular spot is the Charles Bridge, which offers stunning views of the city and is surrounded by historical landmarks and statues.
In terms of travel costs, Prague is generally a budget-friendly destination. However, prices can vary depending on your accommodation, dining, and transportation preferences. October falls within the shoulder season, so you may be able to snag some deals on flights and accommodations.
During your October trip to Prague, there are several unique experiences to be had. One is visiting the Old Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Quarter, which are filled with history and interesting stories. You can also attend a classical music concert at one of the many venues throughout the city, or take a boat tour on the Vltava River. And of course, no trip to Prague is complete without trying some of the local beer and traditional Czech cuisine!
Munich, Germany
One of the top attractions to visit during this time is the famous Oktoberfest (September 16 to October 3 in 2023), a 16-day festival that celebrates Bavarian culture with beer, food, music, and traditional clothing. It’s an unforgettable experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.
Aside from Oktoberfest, there are plenty of other things to do and see in Munich. The Marienplatz is the heart of the city and is home to the famous Glockenspiel, a 32-bell carillon that performs twice a day. You can also visit the Frauenkirche, a stunning Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 15th century. For a bit of history, the Munich Residenz is a must-visit, a former royal palace that’s now a museum showcasing art and artifacts from Bavarian history.
In terms of travel costs, Munich can be on the pricier side, especially during Oktoberfest. However, there are ways to save money by booking accommodations in advance, taking public transportation instead of taxis, and looking for free or low-cost attractions. It’s also worth noting that October is considered shoulder season, meaning that prices may be slightly lower compared to peak summer months.
Some unique activities to consider during your trip include visiting a traditional Bavarian beer garden, taking a bike tour through the city, exploring the English Garden (one of the largest urban parks in the world), or even taking a day trip to the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle.
Quebec City, Canada
We would recommend taking a stroll through the historic Old Quebec area, which is particularly stunning during the fall season. The charming cobblestone streets, colorful foliage, and quaint shops and restaurants make for a picturesque backdrop. You may also want to visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac, a grand hotel that offers stunning views of the city.
As for travel costs, it really depends on your budget and travel style. October is considered shoulder season, which means you may be able to find some good deals on flights and accommodations. However, keep in mind that popular tourist spots may still be busy, so plan accordingly.
When it comes to unique things to do in Quebec City during October, here are a few suggestions. Firstly, you can take a whale watching tour (begins in May and stretches until the end of October) from the nearby town of Tadoussac, where you’ll have the chance to spot beluga, minke, and humpback whales in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. You can also visit the Island of Orleans, a picturesque island just outside of Quebec City that’s known for its wineries, farms, and artisanal food products.
New Mexico, USA
There are a number of things to do and places to visit in New Mexico during October. One of the top attractions is the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which takes place in early October (October 7 – 15 in 2023) and features hundreds of hot air balloons taking to the skies. Other popular activities include exploring the beautiful scenery of the state’s national parks, such as Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands, or checking out the art scene in Santa Fe.
In terms of travel costs, it’s important to note that prices can vary depending on where you’re coming from and how you choose to travel. Generally speaking, though, October can be a good time to find deals on flights and accommodation, as it’s not peak tourist season.
As for unique things to do in New Mexico during October, you might consider taking a hot air balloon ride yourself, checking out some of the state’s many ghost towns, or attending a traditional Native American dance performance. You could also try some of the local cuisine, such as green chile stew or sopapillas.
In terms of weather, temperatures in New Mexico during October can vary depending on where you are in the state. In Albuquerque, for example, average high temperatures are around 22 degrees Celsius, while in Santa Fe they’re closer to 18 degrees Celsius. It’s generally sunny and dry throughout the state, though, so be sure to pack accordingly.