As the summer crowds fade and shoulder season begins, October becomes one of the best months to travel — especially if you’re seeking great weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices. Whether you’re dreaming of vineyard picnics, golden coastlines, or historic cities with just the right amount of chill, there are incredible destinations waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, we’ll explore 10 affordable and crowd-free travel spots for October 2025, perfect for long weekend getaways or week-long escapes. These destinations are ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want maximum experience for minimal spend — and all are easily searchable via Travelupo, your go-to platform for cheap flights and boutique hotel deals.
Perfect for your October 2025 travel inspiration, these spots have been hand picked via Travelupo for your desire!
1. Seville, Spain
- Why in October: Summer heat finally breaks, making it the perfect time to explore.
- Top Experiences:
- Wander the Alcázar without the heatwave crowds
- Tapas-hop through Triana
- Attend the Bienal Flamenco festival if dates align
- Budget Tip: Book your flight into Seville early through Travelupo for best fares, and stay in a traditional Andalusian guesthouse.
October’s golden light and cultural festivities transform Seville into an unforgettable autumn destination. With fewer tourists, you’ll experience more authentic moments — sipping sherry in local taverns, enjoying cooler walks through orange tree-lined streets, and capturing stunning golden-hour photos of historic landmarks.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Why in October: Fall foliage along the Ljubljanica River + cozy local wine season.
- Top Experiences:
- Bike the city and visit Tivoli Park
- Take a day trip to Lake Bled for autumn colors
- Try local orange wines at a wine bar
- Travelupo Insight: Compare short-haul flights from Vienna, Venice, or Berlin to score under-€100 tickets.
Ljubljana is a perfect blend of nature and urban charm. The car-free center invites slow travel, and cafes spill into cobblestone alleys. October offers a romantic air to the capital — ideal for couples, solo travelers, or digital nomads seeking affordable beauty.
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3. Valletta, Malta
- Why in October: Still beach weather, but much quieter.
- Top Experiences:
- Visit the Blue Lagoon or Golden Bay
- Explore historic sites like St. John’s Co-Cathedral
- Dive or snorkel in warm Mediterranean waters
- Where to Stay: Book boutique seafront hotels in Sliema or Valletta with breakfast deals on Travelupo.
Malta in October is a sun-drenched secret. Temperatures hover around the mid-20s Celsius, ideal for both beach-goers and culture seekers. Plus, you’ll enjoy off-season rates while still swimming in clear waters and walking ancient stone streets with ease.
4. Bucharest, Romania
- Why in October: Crisp air, vivid fall colors in city parks, and unbeatable affordability.
- Top Experiences:
- Tour the Palace of Parliament
- Take a side trip to Transylvania for Halloween vibes
- Enjoy Romanian comfort food in Old Town
- Budget Bonus: Romania remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities for accommodation and dining.
Bucharest’s charm is growing fast. With creative cafes, classical architecture, and quirky attractions, it surprises every type of traveler. October is especially atmospheric — think foggy mornings, chestnut-roasting street vendors, and Gothic flair.
5. Puglia, Italy
- Why in October: Olive harvest season and empty beaches.
- Top Experiences:
- Eat orecchiette pasta in Bari’s Old Town
- Visit the trulli houses in Alberobello
- Sip local Primitivo wines on a vineyard tour
- Insider Tip: Fly into Brindisi or Bari with a low-cost airline and rent a car for rural exploring.
Puglia blends rustic charm and gourmet appeal. Its olive groves and cliffside towns shine in fall light, and October brings culinary experiences like olive oil tastings, vineyard tours, and seafood markets without tourist traffic.
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6. Douro Valley, Portugal
- Why in October: Wine harvest and golden hills.
- Top Experiences:
- Take a river cruise past terraced vineyards
- Visit port wine estates in Peso da Régua
- Stay in a quinta (wine estate guesthouse)
- Travelupo Tip: Bundle Porto flights + Douro Valley hotel stays for savings.
The Douro Valley glows in October. The vine-covered hills turn shades of red, gold, and green, making every meal or sip of wine a sensory journey. Travelers can enjoy long drives, train rides, or boat cruises through this photogenic UNESCO region.
7. Tbilisi, Georgia
- Why in October: Fall harvest season, beautiful weather, and wine culture in full swing.
- Top Experiences:
- Eat khinkali dumplings and khachapuri bread
- Visit Tbilisi’s Old Town and sulfur baths
- Take a day trip to the Kakheti wine region
- Budget Highlight: Georgia offers boutique stays and meals at a fraction of Western Europe’s costs.
Tbilisi is a dynamic mix of history, hospitality, and heaping plates of comfort food. October is one of the best times to visit — the vineyards are alive, the cuisine is hearty, and the locals are especially welcoming during harvest festivals.
8. Crete, Greece
- Why in October: Warm sea temperatures, fewer tourists, and cheaper stays.
- Top Experiences:
- Swim at Elafonissi Beach
- Visit Knossos Palace and Heraklion’s Old Port
- Eat fresh seafood in a coastal taverna
- Flight Tip: Flights from European cities to Heraklion drop significantly in mid-October.
Crete’s rugged coastline, ancient ruins, and tavern-lined harbors are made for shoulder-season travel. October brings that sweet spot: hot days, cool nights, and rates half of summer prices. Hike, beach-hop, and feast like a local.
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9. Braga, Portugal
- Why in October: Fall festivities, religious heritage, and budget-friendly charm.
- Top Experiences:
- Explore Bom Jesus do Monte
- Attend local harvest celebrations
- Try bacalhau and local vinho verde wines
- Travelupo Bonus: Direct buses from Porto make it an easy add-on or alternative to Lisbon.
Braga is a peaceful city bursting with spiritual architecture, floral gardens, and traditional cuisine. In October, visitors are treated to local culture at its peak — from grape harvests to saints’ festivals. Expect friendly locals and excellent value.
10. Ghent, Belgium
- Why in October: Autumn charm with less crowd than Bruges or Brussels.
- Top Experiences:
- Cruise the canals in cooler air
- Try frites with truffle mayo and local beers
- Visit the Ghent Light Festival (dates vary)
- Budget Tip: Stay in cozy B&Bs in the historic center with off-season rates.
Ghent captures the fairy tale feel of Bruges with more authenticity and fewer tourists. Fall mists cling to medieval facades, and cozy beer cafés offer a warm retreat. October is the ideal month to embrace its magic on foot or bike.
Why October Travel Just Makes Sense
October is a sweet spot for travel in Europe. The temperatures are still pleasant, especially in southern regions, while the cities feel more relaxed. Cultural calendars pick up with harvest festivals, art events, and food fairs, giving travelers a local, immersive experience without the summer chaos.
Hotels and flights are often significantly cheaper — especially midweek — and you’ll find better availability in top-rated boutique hotels. For savvy travelers using platforms like Travelupo, October is the perfect month to save money and travel smarter.
Weekend Getaways vs Week-Long Trips: What’s Best in October?
Short getaways are great in October — think two to four nights in cities like Ghent, Ljubljana, or Seville — where you can walk, eat, and experience the best of the city center in just a few days.
However, this month also lends itself beautifully to slower, week-long trips in places like Crete, Georgia, or the Douro Valley — where you can explore both coast and countryside, linger over meals, and embrace the slower pace of the season. Choose what suits your rhythm — Travelupo helps you compare all travel durations easily.
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What to Pack for October Travel
Weather varies in October, so pack for flexibility:
- A medium-weight jacket
- Scarf for chilly evenings
- Layers (light sweaters, breathable tops)
- Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones or hikes
- Small umbrella or waterproof layer in case of autumn rain
- A swimsuit (yes, really — for warm southern destinations)
Also pack a universal adapter, power bank, and a digital or printed itinerary. Travelupo lets you save your bookings in one place, making your journey smoother.
How Travelupo Can Help You Plan Smarter
With Travelupo, planning your fall escape is seamless:
- Find flexible flights into smaller airports or regional hubs
- Compare boutique hotel deals that include breakfast, city views, or spa perks
- Use smart filters to plan around your ideal budget, travel dates, or even food preferences
- Access insider tips on seasonal deals, festivals, and affordable day trips
Whether you’re sipping wine in the Douro or savoring meze in Crete, Travelupo helps you book smarter, save more, and experience Europe in its most vibrant season.
