If you want to know where’s hot in October and doesn’t involve long flights with kids, our top 12 handpicked destinations for October sunshine will warm your heart.
Molos Promenade, Limassol, Cyprus
1. Limassol, Cyprus
Average October temperature: 21°
A busy, fun city with historical roots dating back to the 2nd century, Limassol’s sheltered position means it’s still hot in October, so it’s perfect for some off season Mediterranean beach time.
As well as the palm-fringed promenade – a lovely spot for flaneur-ing and enjoying the views – you shouldn’t miss the revitalised old port where traditional fishing boats and a modern entertainment complex mix old and new Cyprus in an totally original way.
Stroll the marina in the October sunshine and play pick your favourite luxury yacht, then head to the nearby old town to check out the medieval architecture. Although if that’s not enough history, Limassol Castle has Richard the Lionheart stories and a museum, and the ancient hillside city of Kourion has more incredible views along with an impressive Ancient Roman amphitheatre.
Where to stay
Amathus Beach Hotel Limassol is just 1km from the ancient Amathus ruins, with large family rooms and a beachfront location. Close to the city, but far away enough to be tranquil, there’s three outdoor swimming pools, an indoor saltwater pool, five restaurants and a spa. Rooms facing the sea have private balconies, and the Mediterranean views are splendid.
Direct UK flights from 4 hours, 25 minutes
Praia do Camilo, Western Algarve
2. Algarve, Portugal
Average October temperature: 24˚
Not only does the Algarve practically guarantee October sunshine, it also comes with lots of outdoor adventure potential and fewer crowds. There’s still plenty of sun so you can make the most of endless stunning beaches, only with more room to spread your towels, and it’s also a great time to slow down at some of the best seafood restaurants in Portugal.
It might still be hot in October but it’s not too warm for families to get into the sporty side of the Algarve, with hiking, biking, tennis and golf all popular. Boat trips are also big, especially for dolphin spotting and sailing into dramatic coastal caves.
The huge Slide and Splash waterpark in Estômbar stays open until the end of October, with the late season bonus that it won’t be totally mobbed. And historic towns like Tavira and Lagos aren’t too hot in October for exploring.
Where to stay
Fazenda Viegas in Lagos is a group of deluxe and spacious holiday apartments with plenty of privacy in beautiful garden surroundings, some with hot tubs. A short distance from the beach, the facilities here are great – there’s a playground, zipline, outdoor pool and lots of garden furniture like hammocks and easy chairs, so you can really spread out and enjoy a home-from-home within reach of Algarve attractions.
Direct UK flights from 2 hours, 50 minutes
Taghazout, Morocco
3. Taghazout, Morocco
Average October temperature: 25˚
Once a small fishing village turned surfing hotspot, turned eco-tourism champion, Taghazout in Morocco is the laid-back alternative to Marrakesh for an October sun break.
It’s all about beach time here, and both Taghazout Beach and Banana Beach are great for families, with gentle Atlantic Ocean breaks and long sandy shores.
Family activities include surf lessons: small October waves are perfect for beginners. Older kids will like camel or horseback riding on the beach, there are plenty of hiking trails in the dramatic local countryside, and don’t miss Paradise Valley, an oasis with natural pools and waterfalls.
There are also local markets to explore, and cooking classes where you can learn how to make those mouthwatering Moroccan dishes, as well as trips to nearby Agadir for the Souk El Had, Agadir Birds Valley, and Crocoparc.
Where to stay
Surf Riad Taghazout is a budget pick that will make you feel like royalty – a charming Riad with a tree growing through the middle, decorated in the Moroccan mosaic style, offering stylish apartments right by one of the nicest beaches in Taghazout. There’s a mini-mart for supplies, and you can book excursions such as camel and horseback rides through the hotel.
Direct UK flights from 3 hours, 50 minutes
Scala dei Turchi, Sicily
4. Sicily, Italy
Average October temperature: 24˚
Sicily is ideal for families in October, being less frenetic, still pleasantly warm, and with all the culture, amazing food, and beautiful beaches you could possibly need. Fly into Palermo and the less-touristy north coast for family-friendly Mount Etna tours, vibrant markets, great beaches like Mondello, and of course the legendary street food – crispy arancini balls are available on every corner, and Palermo regularly scores in the top to for best street food destinations.
Head southwest for an almost unbroken coast of white sand beaches and Insta darling Scala dei Turchi – usually less crowded in autumn. This is definitely the warmest part of Sicily in autumn, as well as the spot for several of its chic spa hotels and wildly expensive resorts, often a lot more affordable in October.
Where to stay
You’ll find lots of great apartments at decent rates in Sicily during October. But if you’re after a hotel, Scala dei Turchi Resort – just metres from the dramatic white limestone cliffs and stunning beaches – has deluxe family rooms, an elegant pool, and is ideally situated for a visit to the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
Direct UK flights from 2 hours, 50 minutes
Villa Bighi, Kalkara, Malta
5. Malta
Average October temperature: 25˚
With 300 hours of sunshine a year, Malta is a solid bet for hot weather in October rom the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valletta with its 7,000-year history, to crystal clear seas ideal for snorkelling and diving.
Sail to the nearby island of Gozo and see its rivals to the Pyramids: the Megalithic Temples. Besides that there’s plenty more to make kids’ jaws drop, and that’s before we even mention jeep safaris.
Of course, as an archipelago, you’re never far from the beach in Malta, so it really is the perfect place to soak up some late season rays.
Where to stay
The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Malta Golden Sands in Mellieħa is a lovely, sprawling family resort on Malta’s Golden Bay, just a few minutes drive from the ferry departure point for Gozo and Camino. There’s a large pool, a children’s pool, private beach and incredible sea and countryside views, and also has a 1000 m² spa, as well as a gym with the kind of views that will actively make you want to hop on a treadmil. Large family rooms come with modern decor and balconies.
Direct UK flights from 3 hours, 20 minutes
Seville bringing the drama and October sun
6. Seville, Spain
Average October temperature: 20˚
Seville is known for being one of the hottest cities in Europe in high summer, so it will be hot in October. But not too hot, as temperatures come down to a mild-for-here 26˚.
That’s perfect sightseeing weather and there are a lot of sights to see in Seville. Although we can’t promise you a tourist-free experience, big hitters like the Real Alcázar don’t feel too crowded in autumn.
Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral with its 104 metre La Giralda bell tower is also at home in Seville. Then there’s Las Seta de Sevilla, or the Mushrooms of Seville; the largest wooden structure in the world, and where you can walk across footbridges at the top for 360˚ city views.
Just add some Flamenco at the Plaza de España, along with tapas in Triana and a wander around ancient Santa Cruz, and you’ve got yourselves an October break to remember well into winter.
Where to stay
The five-star Barceló Sevilla Renacimiento is a truly beautiful property in Triana, very close to the centre and offering premium family rooms at competitive rates. There’s a seasonal outdoor pool, a heated pool and gardens, and it’s just 200 metres from the Isla Magica Theme Park. Rooms are elegant and contemporary, and the buffet breakfast features show cooking.
Direct UK flights from 2 hours, 40 minutes
Agios Nikolaos, Crete
7. Crete, Greece
Average October temperature: 23˚
Crete is the most southerly island in Greece so no surprise to find that it’s hot in October.
Even the sea is still warm enough for swimming, and historic sites, such as the Palace of Knossos and Spinalonga Island, tend to be less crowded.
Also, it’s worth thinking about car hire in Crete in autumn when the roads are quieter, particularly if you want to catch a glimpse of the island’s gorges and waterfalls to the south west: October is one of the best months to hike legendary Samaria Gorge.
For city vibes, Heraklion tops the list when it comes to museums, but Chania edges in front on looks thanks to its quaint old town and Venetian harbour. Or there’s Rethymno which delivers on lighthouses, forts, citadels and a Venetian harbour, as well as a long and sandy city beach for soaking up October sun.
Where to stay
Rethymno is a great place to stay, and perfect for day trips to both Chania and Heraklion. Iberostar Waves Creta Panorama & Mare is an elegant complex right on the beach with six pools, a spa and three restaurants, and rooms have balconies and sea/garden views. Sporty stuff includes table tennis, mini golf, volleyball, basketball, archery, petanque, aerobics, aqua gym and billiards, as well as kids clubs and nightly entertainment.
Direct UK flights from 3 hours, 45 minutes
Head to Havana in Cuba for October sunshine
8. Cuba, Caribbean
Average October temperature: 23˚
The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba gives you October sunshine and plenty of options.
Going down the Caribbean beach holiday route, the majority of resorts are on the north coast and Varadero or Caya Coco are both good choices for families. However, for a bit more of a castaway mood, try Playa Ancón on the south coast, close to Trinidad.
Alternatively, a Havana city break in October lets you introduce older kids to one of the world’s greatest colonial cities along with its cool Cuban rhythms and iconic vintage cars. Then there’s Trinidad, another great colonial city that sits close to the Valle de los Ingenios in the south. Old Havana, the centre of Trinidad and Valle de los Ingenios are all UNESCO World Heritage sites.
You’ll find forest eco-adventures on the Zapata Peninsula and the nature reserve of Topes de Collantes.
Where to stay
The local experience of staying in a Casa Particular is singular to Cuba and worth exploring, especially with older kids and teenagers. By contrast, the island also features a growing number of luxurious family beach resorts, many of them all-inclusive. Five-star Hotel Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa sprawls along several white sand beaches on the north east coast and features a range of one and two bedroom family suites as well as beach villas.
Direct UK flights from 13 hours, 20 minutes
Konyaalti Beach, Antalya
9. Antalya, Türkiye
Average October temperature: 20˚
Antalya is part of the Turquoise Riviera: the dreamy Turkish coast of azure seas, soft white sand, and lush green forests. Remains of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman civilisations provide the heritage, and milder October sunshine means hiking trails such as Düden Waterfalls, Termessos, and Saklikent Gorge should be high on your family to-do list.
Also an historic port city, Antalya has an old town that’s as quaint as you’d expect, with narrow streets and Ottoman-era houses, and the landmarks of Yivli Minaret and Hidirlik Tower. Don’t miss the museum either, it’s one of largest in Türkiye, and chock-full of fascinating artefacts.
Where to stay
Sibel Hotel is a budget pick scoring high on user reviews, and you can pick up a one-bedroom family apartment perfect at a reasonable rate during October. Located a two-minute walk from the Hidirlik Tower with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, this white-washed pension with wooden window frames has a garden view of palm, orange and mulberry trees. Home-cooked meals and a breakfast spread are also available.
Direct UK flights from 4 hours, 15 minutes
Try Tenerife for reliable October sunshine
10. Tenerife, Spain
Average October temperature: 22˚
For a relaxing break doing the poolside thing, or something more adventurous, Tenerife is an obvious choice for easy autumn sun.
The island is famous for enormous Siam Park waterpark, and in October you’ll be jostling less for space on its chutes and slides. It’s also a good time to discover more authentic places, away from the resorts: try La Laguna, for pretty streets and historic buildings.
Of course you can visit Tenerife and never get into ‘the nature’. Although it’s home to Mt. Teide, the tallest mountain in Spain, so if you do venture forth, you’ll be rewarded by cable cars and epic views. Lush valleys like Masca are a good excuse for a guided hike. Or, if you prefer to go it alone, the island’s forests range from pine to prehistoric and most have decently marked trails.
Where to stay
The Green Garden Eco Resort & Villas in Playa de las Americas is just 1km from Siam Park, set in magnificent tropical gardens, decorated in colonial style, with three outdoor pools. There’s a free shuttle bus to the beach, or it’s a 20-minute walk away. Bright, spacious apartments and suites have a dining area and kitchenette, and you can hire a car at the front desk.
Direct UK flights from 4 hours, 30 minutes
Clearwater Beach in Florida is guaranteed hot in October
11. St. Pete/Clearwater, Florida
Average October temperature: 25˚
Autumn is one of the best times of year to visit St. Pete/Clearwater, as conditions are ideal for seeing the sights without it being too hot and humid.
As well as October sunshine, there are also lots of family festivals to enjoy in the area, along with 35 miles of award-winning Gulf Coast beaches. Although possibly the biggest incentive to go is the fact that St. Pete/Clearwater holds the world record for most consecutive days of sunshine, so not just hot in October.
Orlando is just a 90-minute drive away if you want to fit in some theme parks. But there’s plenty to tempt you to stay put, not least Clearwater Marine Aquarium, a non-profit dedicated to conservation, rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine animals.
Where to stay in St. Pete/Clearwater in October
St. Pete Beach Suites is an ultra-chilled base perfect for families and your St. Pete/Clearwater break, just two minutes from the beach, with year-round outdoor pool and barbecue facilities. There’s complimentary bikes, WiFi and parking, cable for the kids, and it’s just 2.5km from the Boca Ciega Bay Aquatic Preserve. Try a Studio Poolside Suite 2 Double and you’ll soon start feeling like a local.
Direct UK flights from 9 hours, 40 minutes
Nice is where’s hot in October in France
12. Nice, France
Average October temperature: 21˚
We’ll take a sunny city break just about anywhere in France in autumn. However, Nice on the Côte d’Azur ticks just about every box from October sunshine and a gorgeous old town to celebrity spotting potential: good news for teens.
Despite the fact that the city beach is famously stony (don’t come expecting long, golden sands) Nice still gets very busy during summer. But it’s still hot in October when the crowds are thinning out, the Mediterranean is warm enough for swimming and everywhere is still bright and lively: Nice is a real city, not just a tourist town.
Don’t miss a stroll, cycle or run along the Promenade des Anglais is perfect for a leisurely stroll/bike ride. Parc de la Colline du Château is a bit of a climb but gives you great views over Nice, and comes with a playground and waterfall. Alternatively, seek out Jardin Albert 1er near the promenade where you’ll find a carousel amid the greenery.
Where to stay
Hotel La Villa Nice Promenade is 50 metres from the Promenade des Anglais and a 15-minute walk from Nice-Ville Train Station, with big family rooms. It’s elegant with quirky features, and has an orange tree-shaded terrace perfect for relaxing with a drink. Nice’s Old Town is 1.5 km away, the Fine Arts Museum a 10-minute walk, and it’s two minutes from the Gambetta Promenade bus stop.
Direct UK flights from 4 hours, 30 minutes
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