Where to go on holiday in October

Looking for a holiday travelling in October? Look no further. Sunvil's experts have handpicked their favourite destinations for this time of year.

Spain

Andalucia and Extremadura are wonderful destinations to visit in October. The culture, landscape and architecture of the regions have been influenced by the Iberians, Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Moors, and are fascinating to tour. We feature the Costa de Luz, one of the least known coastal stretches in Spain and offer accommodation in the towns of Granada, Seville, Jaen and Cadiz as well as in the atmospheric villages hidden amidst the rolling hills and mountains.

Pompeii

Over 270 years ago the archeological site of Pompeii was discovered. The ancient city was buried by ash following the eruption of Vesuvius in 79AD and can be visited on a day excursion from Naples and Sorrento. New excavations are taking place and have, so far, revealed homes, shops and pubs. In October the site is quieter than during the summer months and the mild temperatures allow you to explore for longer without the need to escape from the heat.

Wine hotels

Following the grape harvest, why not book yourself a stay at a wine estate? Sunvil’s favourites include the Herdade da Malhadinha Nova and the Torre de Palma Wine Hotel in the Alentejo, and La Foresteria and Agriturismo Il Granaio on Sicily.

Portugal

One of the best times to visit Portugal is in the autumn months when the weather is still warm, hotel rates are less expensive and there are generally fewer people than in the summer. Portugal offers a wealth of culture, beautiful landscapes and places to explore throughout as well as being able to fit in a few beach days. The landscape will change into autumnal colours and wildflowers will make an appearance.

Autumn also sees the migration of birds. If you are an avid birdwatcher then the Sagres Birdwatching Festival takes place in the Algarve between 01-05Oct.

Try our suggested itinerary - Explore Portugal – From the Algarve to the Central Region.

The Dodecanese

Experience a perfect mix of cosmopolitan and uncharted territory with the Dodecanese islands. All offer endless beaches, unexplored islets, castles, and ancient civilisations. Throughout the centuries, the Ionians, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans, and Italians have all left their mark on the islands, which are rich in culture and history. Each island boasts its own unique character while providing opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing, and mouth-watering cuisine amidst beautiful beaches.

Soak up two picturesque and tucked away Greek isles on our island-hopping itinerary. Visit pretty Leros which offers plenty of picture-perfect sheltered coves and bays, perfect for relaxing. A short hop away lies unspoilt Lipsi, where tourist numbers are limited and the beaches pristine.

City breaks

Choose a city break holiday to Thessaloniki, Lisbon, Gothenburg, Oslo and more.

In Dubrovnik, from 09-23 October 2023 the tenth Good Food Festival is taking place. Food can bring a place to life and can trigger memories, through taste and smell, long after your departure. The Food Festival includes: restaurant week, where local restaurants serve special Dalmatian menus; wine tastings; culinary tours; cookery demonstrations; food stalls; live music and a whole lot more. We can take you there on a tailor-made holiday.

Or combine multiple city stays on a longer holiday?

Our 9-night itinerary visits these capitals of Scandinavia, offering free time for exploration with suggested public transport routes for a seamless trip. Copenhagen, Stockholm and Oslo by public transport are some of the most picturesque and natural cities in Europe with their lush parklands, glistening waterways, medieval centres, renowned museums and innovative, modern architecture.

Patagonia

Finally, venture out and explore further than the norm. In Patagonian, the landscapes are beautifully diverse in the south of the country. The Lake District in Northern Patagonia has over 30 glacial lakes, and Bariloche is the main base from which to engage in numerous activities including walking, skiing, fishing and climbing. October is the start of the spring season here and an exciting time to visit. Tourist numbers will be less and the flowering season sees a change in the beautiful landscape.

Try our suggested itinerary 'The Wildlife and Glaciers of Patagonia'.