Where to travel in October: the best destinations for UK travellers

October is one of the most underrated months to travel. Crowds thin out, prices drop and the light turns golden in some of the world’s most beautiful places. According to ABTA’s annual Holiday Habits report, 38% of British travellers now consider shoulder season travel a deliberate strategy rather than a compromise. The challenge is knowing where to go.

Where to travel in October: why this month rewards the bold

October sits in a sweet spot. Summer heat fades in the Mediterranean, monsoon season ends across South-East Asia, and long-haul destinations become genuinely pleasant. It is also when airlines and hotels offer some of their sharpest pricing before the Christmas rush.

The key is matching destination to season. Not every place thrives in October.

The best places to visit in October by travel style

For culture and history: Japan

Japan in October is extraordinary. Autumn foliage (koyo) begins its journey south from Hokkaido, turning Kyoto, Nikko and Nara into landscapes that look like paintings. Temperatures sit between 15°C and 22°C across most of the country, making walking tours and temple visits genuinely enjoyable.

October remains one of the quieter months before the leaf-peak crowds arrive in November. It is also one of the few destinations where connectivity matters from the moment you land: rural temples, mountain towns and regional railways all demand a working data connection for navigation and translation. Many travellers now sort this before departure rather than scrambling for a local SIM on arrival. Holafly, for instance, offers unlimited data eSIMs for Japan at https://esim.holafly.com/esim-japan/, which can be activated before the flight and works from the moment the plane touches down.

For sun and sea: the Canary Islands

The Canaries enjoy 24°C to 27°C in October. Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote all sit outside the hurricane belt and deliver reliable sunshine when the rest of Europe is putting away its summer wardrobe. British Airways, easyJet and Jet2 operate direct routes, often at prices that undercut July and August fares by 20 to 30%.

For adventure: Nepal

Post-monsoon October is peak trekking season in Nepal. Skies above the Himalayas clear completely, offering unobstructed views of Annapurna, Everest and the Langtang range. The Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp treks are both best attempted between October and early November.

For city breaks: Lisbon and Porto

Portugal in October is warm (around 22°C in Lisbon), dry and significantly cheaper than in summer. Both cities are compact enough to explore on foot, and the food and wine scene has improved dramatically in recent years. Flights from London, Manchester and Edinburgh remain well under £100 return if booked in advance.

For wildlife: Kenya and Tanzania

The short rains in East Africa typically do not begin until November, meaning October offers hot, dry conditions ideal for game viewing. The Great Migration is still active in the Serengeti, and the Masai Mara sees large resident populations throughout the month.

Where to travel in October: practical checklist

Before you book, run through these basics:

• Check visa requirements well in advance (Japan requires no visa for UK nationals; Kenya requires an e-visa)
• Confirm travel insurance covers any adventure activities
• Research local SIM options or set up an eSIM before you fly for seamless connectivity on arrival
• Pack layers: October means temperature swings in mountain destinations and transitional weather in Europe

The bottom line on where to go in October

There is no single best answer. Japan rewards cultural travellers with unbeatable autumn scenery. The Canaries deliver reliable warmth without long-haul effort. Nepal offers adventure at its most dramatic. Lisbon and Porto suit those who want quality on a tighter budget. Kenya and Tanzania give wildlife encounters without the crowds of high season.

The best destination in October is the one that matches what you actually want from a trip. Pick the style first, then the place.

FAQ:

Is October a good time to travel for UK holidaymakers?

Yes. October falls into shoulder season for most major destinations, meaning lower prices, fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures in tropical and subtropical locations.

Do I need travel insurance in October?

Always. October weather can be unpredictable in some regions, and medical costs abroad remain a serious financial risk without cover.

What documents do I need for Japan from the UK?

UK nationals do not need a visa for Japan for stays up to 90 days. A valid passport, return ticket and sufficient funds are the standard requirements.