Top 10 Places to Visit in October

October marks the heart of shoulder season, bringing lower flight and hotel rates compared to summer and significantly reduced crowds – a delightful change.

This time of year also sees many lesser-known destinations begin to close down for a break after summer. Plus, with Halloween around the corner, especially in the US, there's plenty of reason to celebrate. Here are my top ten global picks for October travel.

Keeping an eye on your expenses? Check out Dinogo’s data-driven selections that consider popularity, as well as flight and hotel costs.

Top Destinations to Explore in October

The Best October Travel Spots in the US

October brings a lively energy across the US, with Halloween triggering a nationwide spooky party vibe and iconic locations embracing the festivities. In addition to my top choices, Dinogo data highlights Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Nashville as popular domestic travel spots.

1. Klamath County, Oregon

• Discover more: Klamath Falls travel guide
• Why visit in October? To witness the breathtaking annual bird migration.

The quaint town of Klamath Falls springs to life in the fall, marking it as one of the top October getaway spots. The arrival of millions of waterfowl to the Klamath Basin signals the beginning of the annual bird migration.

However, the excitement peaks when the eagles, peregrine falcons, and red-tailed hawks arrive, elevating the experience to new heights. A total of about 350 bird species will call this region home, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

The vast forests and striking sceneries of Crater Lake National Park are located just 60 miles north of the city, perfect for fall exploration and hiking. If you're fascinated by volcanology, the Lava Beds National Monument offers a treasure trove of lava tubes, unusual rock formations, ancient petroglyphs, and Native American rock art. 

2. Albuquerque, New Mexico

• Discover more: Albuquerque travel guide
• Why visit in October? Experience the magic of the International Balloon Fiesta.

Continuing the aerial theme of celebration, Albuquerque hosts the International Balloon Fiesta each October. For nine days starting October 5th, hundreds of vibrant and whimsical hot air balloons ascend against the breathtaking backdrop of the Sandia Mountains. 

Experience balloon rides, enjoy balloon rodeos and races, and stick around for the spectacular Balloon Glow in the evening, where balloon burners light up the night sky with their flames. There’s also camping and glamping, cultural shows, live music, local cuisine, and much more. 

And that's just the beginning before you dive into the charming Albuquerque Old Town or take the Aerial Tramway up to 10,000 feet to reach the summit of Mount Sandia.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Discover more: New Orleans travel guide
• Why visit in October? Enjoy dancing and dining at the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival.

“Without the blues, there would be no jazz or R&B.” This is the motto of the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. Celebrating the spirit of the Big Easy, the 17th annual festival takes place over the weekend of October 11th, 2024. 

This vibrant three-day festival features outstanding blues music and mouthwatering barbecues from top pitmasters across the US. Make it a highlight of your extended stay in this remarkable city at the mouth of the Mississippi. 

With average temperatures around 70°F and only three inches of rain, October is the perfect month to enjoy its finest offerings.

Explore Bourbon Street’s bars, cheer for street performers at Jackson Square, and dance along to the finest jazz on Frenchman Street. If you’re there at the end of the month, few places celebrate Halloween chills quite like New Orleans. Make sure to bring your costume!

4. Salem, Massachusetts 

• Find out more: Salem travel guide
• Why visit in October? Get ready for spine-tingling Haunted Halloween Happenings. 

Established in 1626, Salem is one of the oldest towns in the US. Its notorious and eerie reputation stems from the 1692 Witch Trials. October is the perfect month to visit, as Salem transforms with a full-fledged Halloween celebration, featuring a month-long Haunted Happenings festival.

Prepare for haunted houses, historical reenactments, stunning costumes, vibrant parades, and witch-themed everything. With half a million visitors each year, the town buzzes with activity. For celebrations like these, the crowd only enhances the festive spirit.

If it becomes overwhelming, consider staying in nearby Boston, just a 30-minute train ride away on the Newbury/Rockport line.

Reserve tickets for the Witch House and the eerie (if somewhat outdated) Salem Witch Museum, which features a memorial to the 19 victims who were tragically and unnecessarily hanged.

Beyond the witchy excitement, Salem boasts a rich maritime history. Begin your visit at the impressive Salem Maritime National Historic Site, which stretches across nine acres of waterfront and includes a tall ship—a delightful way to enjoy a fall day.

5. Asheville, North Carolina

• Learn more: Asheville travel guide
• Why visit in October? To witness the stunning transformation of fall colors across the landscapes.

In October, the mountain city of Asheville bursts into a brilliant display of fall colors. Vibrant reds, oranges, and golds envelop the scenery, as the diverse deciduous trees on the slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains showcase one of nature’s most spectacular performances.

Immerse yourself in this vibrant atmosphere and breathe in the fresh mountain air while hiking the many trails that wind into the wilderness. Notable waterfalls like Crabtree Falls and Rainbow Falls add a dramatic touch, while Pisgah National Forest and Dupont Forest offer stunning highlights, along with views from Craggy Gardens and Looking Glass Rock Overlook.

For leaf peepers, a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway is essential—don’t forget your camera! Along the way, numerous scenic viewpoints provide breathtaking views of the fall colors in all their glory.

6. Annapolis, Maryland

• Learn more: Annapolis travel guide
• Why visit in October? The wildly popular Maryland Renaissance Festival.

If you find yourself in Anne Arundel County near Annapolis on any weekend from August to October, be sure to dazzle in your finest 16th-century attire at the Maryland Renaissance Festival.

Revel Grove is a sprawling 27-acre village ruled by King Henry VIII. Stroll through its mud-lined pathways, encountering hermits, wenches, magicians, and minstrels—professional performers reenacting medieval spectacles and improvisations.

Indulge in handicrafts, savor turkey legs, and refreshing beers. Experience a bit of jousting and enjoy a performance at the Royal Court. Let the festivities begin!

Annapolis shines in October. Filled with historic buildings and a beautiful harbor, its rich colonial past sets the stage for thrilling ghost tours and, if you need a boost of courage, haunted pub crawls.

The top places to visit in October across Europe

My favorite European destinations in October span from north to south, highlighting art and culture. There are certainly more places to explore.

Dinogo data reveals that Madrid and Munich are particularly popular (largely thanks to the beer festival). Meanwhile, the chilly weather in Amsterdam doesn’t deter visitors, and warmth can still be found in Athens.

7. Nice, France

• Discover more: Nice travel guide
• Why visit in October? Experience France’s most glamorous city without overspending.

The name says it all, but ‘nice’ hardly captures the splendor of Nice’s majestic Côte d’Azur backdrop. This capital of the French Riviera stands proudly among any Mediterranean city in October. 

Data from Dinogo indicates average temperatures hover around a pleasant 63°F, with minimal rainfall throughout the month. It’s also famous for being one of France’s sunniest locales.

• Exceptional museums, especially the MAMAC and Musée Matisse.
• The Cimiez Quarter and Vieux Nice for retail therapy and nightlife.
• The stunning architecture of the Hôtel Le Negresco and Palais de la Méditerranée.

My tip? Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Promenade des Anglais (or ‘La Prom’ if you want to sound like a local). Find a cozy spot on the beach, lay back, and bask in the final rays of European sun.

8. Prague, Czech Republic

• Learn more: Prague travel guide
• Why visit in October? Stunning architecture and breathtaking opera.

Considered Europe’s most beautiful capital, Prague experiences shorter, cooler days as summer fades. This fall ambiance revitalizes the city and invigorates its cultural scene.

With longer evenings, the Signal Festival illuminates the city with dazzling light displays and extraordinary multimedia art.

As crowds thin on the historic Charles Bridge, its true charm emerges. Sunrise and sunset offer ideal moments for a leisurely stroll to appreciate the gothic beauty of the skyline.

The city’s theaters and concert halls vibrate with the echoes of operas and classical performances. While there are many options, my top choice is the exquisite Klementinum Mirror Chapel, where Mozart once played the organ.

9. Puglia, Italy

• Learn more: Fun facts about Italy
• Why visit in October? Participate in the olive oil harvest.

Situated at the heel of Italy’s ‘boot’, Puglia remains relatively warm during this season. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, there’s a wealth of activities – especially delicious food – making it one of the top October destinations.

October marks the time for the olive oil harvest, celebrated as the gold of Puglia. It’s a wondrous destination to witness ancient olive trees continuing to provide the culinary essence of Italy.

Immerse yourself by staying at an olive farm like Masseria Il Frantoio and participate in the harvest. And naturally, there's an abundance of delicious food and wine to enjoy.

A trip to Puglia wouldn't be complete without visiting Alberobello. This UNESCO World Heritage town is famous for its whitewashed trulli (stone huts with conical roofs) and offers a truly enchanting atmosphere for exploration.

10. Vienna, Austria

• Discover more: The best day trips from Vienna,
• Why visit in October? Indulge your cultural cravings at the Long Night of Museums.

On Saturday, October 5th, the Long Night of Museums invites over 100 cultural venues to remain open until 1 am. With a single ticket, you can access as many as you can explore. Many institutions offer special performances, events, and exhibits.

Become part of the vibrant crowd moving from museum to gallery and immerse yourself in the distinctive atmosphere. It’s my favorite evening in Vienna.

Equally cultured and notably more glamorous is the Viennale. From October 17th to 29th, the city is captivated by the excitement of film. Celebrating its 62nd year in 2024, Vienna’s international film festival takes over cinemas throughout the historic center.

Data-driven selections from Dinogo

If seasonal events aren’t your priority, consider opting for data-driven destinations. These spots are informed by Dinogo's flight and hotel data, factoring in budget, weather, and popularity to help you dodge the crowds.

For tailored suggestions based on your current location and desired destination, explore the Best Time to Travel tool.

Uncover more fantastic travel destinations

With autumn colors and decreasing prices, October is undeniably a wonderful month to travel, particularly for epic fall road trips. However, it’s not the only one. Check my travel guides for the best places to visit in September, or if you’re looking ahead, November and December. For warm fall getaways, see where is hot in October and November.

For additional inspiration, explore the world map on Dinogo Explore. No matter your travel plans, Dinogo excels in providing affordable flights, car rentals, and fantastic places to stay.