If the question is where it is hot in October, Dubai, Sharm El Sheikh, Muscat and Doha bring some of the strongest heat, while Cape Verde, the Canary Islands and Cyprus offer warmer weather without such a long flight from the UK. Further afield, Bali, the Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius keep temperatures firmly tropical.
There is an important difference between somewhere being hot and being reliable for October sun. Cancún and the Maldives remain warm, for example, but rainfall is more likely than in Egypt or the Gulf. Early and late October can also feel surprisingly different around the Mediterranean.
This guide compares typical daytime temperatures, sunshine, sea conditions, approximate London flight times and what October weather actually means once the holiday begins.
Where Is Hot in October? At a Glance
| Destination | Avg. Low / High | Sunshine / Day | Avg. Rainfall | Sea Temp | Approx. London Flight Time |
| Dubai, UAE | 23°C / 35°C | 10 hrs | 0 mm | 31°C | ~7- 8 hrs direct |
| Doha, Qatar | 23°C / 35°C | 10 hrs | 1 mm | 31°C | ~6 hrs 35 mins direct |
| Muscat, Oman | 24°C / 35°C | 10 hrs | 1 mm | 29°C | ~7 hrs 20 minutes |
| Aqaba, Jordan | 22°C / 34°C | 9 hrs | 3 mm | 26°C | ~10 hrs, 1 stop; total time varies by connection |
| The Gambia | 23°C / 33°C | 8 hrs | 65 mm | 29°C | ~6 hrs direct (seasonal) |
| Bali, Indonesia | 24°C / 31°C | 9 hrs | 90 mm | 27°C | ~17 hrs, 1 stop |
| Cancún, Mexico | 24°C / 32°C | 6 hrs | 277 mm | 29°C | ~10 hrs 35 mins direct |
| Kerala, India (Kochi benchmark) | 23°C / 32°C | 6 hrs | 343 mm | 28°C | ~12–14 hrs with one stop |
| Maldives (Malé) | 25°C / 30°C | 8 hrs | 195 mm | 29°C | ~10 hrs 20 mins direct |
| Costa Rica, Caribbean Coast (Limón) | 22°C / 31°C | ~ 5 hrs | ~ 159 mm | ~ 29°C | ~11 hrs direct to San José, plus onward transfer |
| Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt | 24°C / 32°C | 10 hrs | 1 mm | 28°C | ~5 hrs 20–35 mins direct |
| Cape Verde (Sal) | 24°C / 30°C | 6 hrs | 16 mm | 27°C | ~6 hrs 10 mins direct |
| Seychelles (Mahé) | 25°C / 30°C | 7 hrs | 191 mm | 28°C | ~13–14 hrs with one stop |
| Marrakech, Morocco | 16°C / 29°C | 8 hrs | 19 mm | N/A | ~3 hrs 30 mins direct |
| Mauritius | 19°C / 27°C | 8 hrs | 75 mm | 24°C | ~12 hrs direct |
| Cyprus | 16°C / 27°C | 9 hrs | 31 mm | 25°C | ~4 hrs 35 mins direct |
| Agadir, Morocco | 17°C / 26°C | 8 hrs | 21 mm | 20°C | ~4 hrs direct |
| Antalya, Turkey | 16°C / 27°C | 8 hrs | 77 mm | 25°C | ~4 hrs 15 mins direct |
| Canary Islands (Tenerife) | 20°C / 27°C | 7 hrs | 13 mm | 24°C | ~4 hrs 30 mins direct |
| Seville, Spain | 15°C / 26°C | 7 hrs | 67 mm | N/A | ~2 hrs 45 mins direct |
| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | 20°C / 28°C | 6 hrs | 115 mm | 22°C | ~11 hrs 45 mins direct |
| Malta | 18°C / 25°C | 7 hrs | 78 mm | 24°C | ~3 hrs 15 mins direct |
| Kos, Greece | 15°C / 24°C | 8 hrs | 59 mm | 23°C | ~4 hrs direct |
| Algarve, Portugal | 16°C / 23°C | 7 hrs | 56 mm | 21°C | ~3 hrs direct |
| Rome, Italy | 13°C / 22°C | 7 hrs | 96 mm | N/A | ~2 hrs 40 mins direct |
Best Places for October Sun: Quick Picks
| If you’re looking for… | Best choices |
| Hottest weather | Dubai, Doha, Muscat |
| Hot and dry | Dubai, Doha, Muscat |
| Reliable beach sun | Sharm El Sheikh, Cape Verde, Canary Islands |
| Best October sun under five hours from London | Canary Islands, Cyprus, Antalya, Marrakech |
| October half-term sun | Sharm El Sheikh, Tenerife, Dubai, Cape Verde |
| Warmest sea | Dubai, Doha, Muscat, Maldives |
| Long-haul October sun | Mauritius, Seychelles, Bali |
| Hot but wetter | Maldives, Cancún, Kerala |
The Hottest Places to Visit in October 2026
1. Dubai, UAE
Why October: Dubai is a warm and vibrant destination in October, with temperatures still reaching the mid-30s. As the intense summer heat begins to ease, beach days, resort pools, desert experiences and evenings outdoors become more comfortable, particularly later in the month.
What to expect: You can relax on stunning beaches like Jumeirah, enjoy luxury shopping at Dubai Mall, and experience breathtaking views from the Burj Khalifa. Adventure seekers can try desert safaris, dune bashing, or skydiving over Palm Jumeirah. Cultural highlights include the Al Fahidi Historical District and Dubai Creek, offering a mix of modern glamour and rich Emirati heritage.
October considerations: Early October can still feel very hot and humid, while conditions generally become more comfortable towards the end of the month. With daytime highs around 35°C and a direct flight of roughly 7-8 hours from London, Dubai remains a strong choice for travellers looking for proper October heat without travelling as far as the Indian Ocean or Caribbean.
For a wider seasonal comparison, Luxtripper’s Best Time to Visit Dubai guide gives more detail on how October compares with the cooler winter months.
Read Also: Best time to visit Dubai | Dubai in November | Facts about Dubai
2. Doha, Qatar
Why October: Doha suits travellers looking for strong October heat without spending the whole holiday inside a resort. The Corniche, Souq Waqif, museums and beach clubs make it easy to mix city sightseeing with slower days beside the pool or sea.
What to expect: The Gulf remains exceptionally warm, with sea temperatures around 31°C, while rainfall is minimal. Souq Waqif and the waterfront become much more enjoyable after sunset, when more of the city’s outdoor dining scene starts to come back to life.
October considerations: Temperatures usually range from around 23°C at night to 35°C during the day, so October is still firmly hot rather than mild. Early in the month, the combination of heat and humidity can make long periods outside tiring, while the latter part tends to feel easier for sightseeing and outdoor meals. Late October to late November is one of the better periods for warm-weather activities. Direct flights from London to Doha take roughly 6 hours 35 minutes, depending on the London airport and service.
3. Muscat, Oman
Why October: Muscat stays hot in October, but the month begins to feel more comfortable than the height of summer. The city has a quieter, more traditional feel than Dubai, with whitewashed buildings, mountain scenery and a coastline of beaches and rocky coves.
What to expect: Mutrah Souq, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and the waterfront can be combined with beach time, mountain drives and desert trips. The sea remains very warm, while the drier weather makes it easier to plan days around the coast and nearby landscapes.
October considerations: Daytime highs are usually around 35°C, with lows close to 24°C, so the middle of the day can still feel intense, especially early in the month. Sightseeing is generally more comfortable in the morning or later afternoon. Direct flights from London Heathrow to Muscat take around 7 hours 20 minutes, making it a straightforward Gulf option from the UK.
4. Aqaba, Jordan
Why October: October is when Aqaba starts to feel much easier to enjoy. The fierce summer heat has eased, the Red Sea is still warm, and evenings by the waterfront are far more comfortable. It also makes sense as part of a wider Jordan trip, with Petra and Wadi Rum close enough to combine with a few days by the sea.
What to expect: Much of Aqaba’s appeal is underwater. Japanese Garden is popular for its shallow coral and snorkelling, while the Cedar Pride wreck gives divers something quite different to see. Away from the water, Aqaba is relatively small, so it works particularly well for a few slower days after sightseeing elsewhere in Jordan rather than as a long city break.
October considerations: Early October can still reach the mid-30s, but the heat usually becomes less demanding as the month goes on, with daytime temperatures dropping towards the high 20s. Rain is rare and the Red Sea remains warm enough for swimming, snorkelling and diving. There are currently no direct flights from London to Aqaba, and journey times vary depending on the route and connection.
5. The Gambia
Why October: The Gambia gives UK travellers tropical heat without travelling as far as the Caribbean or Indian Ocean. Long Atlantic beaches, warm water and greener landscapes distinguish October from the country’s drier winter season, while the quieter atmosphere can suit travellers looking for an easy-going break.
What to expect: Beach days remain very much part of the holiday, with sea temperatures around 29°C. Craft markets, birdlife and trips along the Gambia River add more to the experience than simply staying beside the pool, while Kololi, Kotu and Cape Point are among the main coastal resort areas.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures usually reach around 33°C, falling to roughly 23°C at night. October marks the transition from the wetter season into the dry season, so humidity remains noticeable and some rain is still possible, although average rainfall drops to around 65 mm for the month. It suits travellers who value heat and very warm water more than completely dependable blue skies. Typical flying time from London is around six hours, although direct services can be seasonal, so the actual journey depends on the airline and travel dates.
6. Bali, Indonesia
Why October: One of the best hot places to go in October is Bali. Temperatures stay warm throughout the month, while the busiest summer period has started to ease. October also sits between the drier months and the wetter season, so there can still be plenty of sunshine, especially earlier in the month.
What to expect: Enjoy serene beaches and rich cultural experiences, but Bali is rarely just staying beside the sea. Ubud’s rice terraces and temples, the beaches around Uluwatu, waterfalls, local markets and Mount Batur all give travellers plenty of reasons to see more of the island.
October considerations: Temperatures usually sit between 24°C and 31°C, and humidity remains high. Rain becomes more likely as October goes on, often arriving in short tropical showers rather than lasting all day. Bali is still a good choice for warmth, but it is less dependable for completely dry weather than places such as Dubai or Sharm El Sheikh. Flights from the UK require at least one stop, so Bali is better suited to a longer holiday than a quick October break.
Read Also: Best month to visit Bali | Luxury things to do in Bali
Bali in September 2026 | Visit Bali in October
7. Cancún, Mexico
Why October: Cancún remains hot in October, with fewer tourists than during the main winter season and often better-value resort stays. Warm Caribbean water keeps beach days firmly on the agenda, while the quieter period can make it easier to explore beyond the Hotel Zone.
What to expect: Enjoy the stunning beaches with warm waters perfect for swimming and water sports. Delve into the rich Mayan heritage by exploring archaeological sites like Tulum and Chichen Itza, or spend a day around the region’s cenotes. Local food, nightlife and markets add plenty to do away from the beach. Travellers visiting at the very end of the month may begin to see preparations for Día de Muertos and Hanal Pixán, the Maya tradition associated with Day of the Dead across the Yucatán Peninsula. Mexico’s official tourism site lists Hanal Pixán celebrations in Quintana Roo around the end of October and beginning of November.
October considerations: Temperatures typically sit around 24–32°C, with warm seas but noticeably higher humidity and rainfall than during cancún’s winter dry season. October also remains within the Atlantic hurricane season, so flexible plans and good travel insurance are sensible. Direct British Airways flights from London Gatwick currently take around 10 hours 35 minutes.
Read Also: Best time to go to Mexico | Mexico in October
8. Kerala, India
Why October: October shows Kerala at its greenest, with regular rainfall keeping the backwaters, forests and hills looking particularly fresh. It is a good time for travellers who want warm weather alongside nature, local culture and a slower-paced trip rather than a holiday built entirely around the beach.
What to expect: Cruise the serene backwaters of Alappuzha, explore the misty hills of Munnar, trek through Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Ayurvedic treatments remain another distinctive part of a Kerala stay, while the state’s food, waterways and plantation country give plenty of reasons to move around rather than stay in one resort. Kerala celebrates Navratri during October, with music, temple events and traditional cultural programmes taking place across different parts of the state. Dates can vary each year, so they are best checked on the local calendar before travelling.
October considerations: Kerala remains hot and humid in October, with coastal areas such as Kochi usually seeing temperatures of around 23–32°C. Rain is still very much part of the weather, particularly around the coast, so Kerala is better suited to backwaters, scenery and cultural experiences than to travellers looking for guaranteed beach sunshine. From London, journeys to Kochi generally take around 12-14 hours with one stop, depending on the airline and connection.
Read Also: Best time to visit Kerala in 2026 | Is Kerala safe?
9. Maldives
Why October: Warm lagoons, overwater villas and consistently tropical temperatures keep the Maldives high on many long-haul wish lists in October. It can also be a quieter time to visit than the main winter season, which suits travellers looking for a slower resort stay.
What to expect: The sea remains warm enough for long swims, snorkelling and diving, with average water temperatures around 29°C. Resort days can move between bright sunshine, building clouds and sudden tropical showers without a dramatic change in temperature, so even wetter spells rarely bring cool weather.
October considerations: October still falls within the southwest monsoon, which the Maldives Meteorological Service identifies as the wetter season from mid-May into November. Rain often comes in showers with brighter spells in between, so October remains reliably warm rather than reliably dry. For UK travellers, British Airways currently flies direct from London Heathrow to Malé, with a flight time of around 10 hours 20 minutes.
10. Costa Rica
Why October: Costa Rica can be a good October choice for travellers interested in nature, adventure and culture, but the right coast makes all the difference. While the Pacific side is deep into its wetter season, the Caribbean coast around Puerto Viejo, Cahuita and Tortuguero can enjoy one of its better weather windows of the year. Costa Rica’s official tourism board describes September and October as a relatively drier period on the Caribbean side.
What to expect: Warm Caribbean beaches sit alongside rainforest, waterfalls and wildlife, so there is plenty to do beyond the sand. Puerto Viejo and Cahuita work well for relaxed beach days and rainforest walks, while Tortuguero adds canals, birdlife and sea turtles. Tortuguero’s main sea turtle nesting period runs through October, giving the month an extra wildlife angle. Carnaval de Limón brings the Caribbean city of Limón to life during the second full week of October, with colourful parades, music, dancing, local food and Costa Rica’s Afro-Caribbean culture.
October considerations: Temperatures around the Caribbean coast generally stay warm, with places such as Limón usually around 22–31°C. Rain is still possible, so October should not be treated as a guaranteed dry-month season. The key difference is regional: September and October are among the wettest months on the Pacific side, while the Caribbean coast is comparatively drier. Direct flights from London to San José take around 11 hours.
11. Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Why October: A lot of travellers consider October one of the better times to visit Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. The fierce midsummer temperatures have started to ease, but the Red Sea and resort pools remain warm enough for long beach days.
What to expect: The Red Sea’s clear waters keep snorkelling and diving high on the list, while the cooler October temperatures make desert excursions easier than during midsummer. Resorts around Naama Bay, Sharks Bay and Nabq Bay offer plenty of choice for relaxed beach days, while Ras Mohammed National Park, around 20 km from Sharm, is known for its coral reefs and marine life.
October Considerations: Rain is unusual, and with daytime highs around 32°C and a direct flight of roughly 5 hours 20–35 minutes from London, Sharm El Sheikh is one of the more dependable options for October sun without travelling long haul.
Read Also: Guide to visit Egypt in October | When to travel to Egypt
12. Cape Verde
Why October: October catches Cape Verde at an interesting point in the year. Days remain hot, the Atlantic is around 27°C, and October marks the final month of the wetter season. On greener islands such as Santo Antão, recent rain can leave valleys and mountain slopes looking noticeably lusher, making this a particularly rewarding time for walking. Sal and Boa Vista, meanwhile, remain the better fit for long beach days and resort stays.
What to expect: Expect warm, humid days, plenty of sunshine and temperatures reaching around 30°C, with evenings staying comfortably warm. On Sal, long-term averages suggest around 30°C during the day and 24°C at night, with roughly six hours of sunshine. October is generally much drier than September, although brief showers can still pass through. The sea is warm enough for swimming, while Santo Antão and Fogo offer more active days among volcanic landscapes and mountain trails.
October considerations: October is a transitional month in Cape Verde, so the weather is usually warm and sunny but an occasional shower is still possible. Heat and humidity can make exposed walks more tiring around midday, so early starts are a good idea, while mountain and stone paths may remain slippery after recent rain, particularly on Santo Antão. Strong sun protection is still important, even on cloudier days, and mosquito repellent is worth packing. Travellers should also take care with food and water and follow good hygiene practices.
13. Seychelles
Why October: In October, The Seychelles offers balmy weather, warm seas and generally calmer conditions between the seasonal trade winds. It is a good month for combining beach time with snorkelling, diving and island-hopping, without the stronger winds that can affect parts of the year.
What to expect: Dive into clear azure waters for world-class snorkelling and diving among vibrant coral reefs. Explore lush nature reserves teeming with unique flora and fauna, or spend quieter days on secluded stretches of sand across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. October also brings more of the islands’ Creole culture into view through food, music and local celebrations. Festival Kreol, Seychelles’ largest cultural celebration, takes place towards the end of October, with music, traditional dance, art, theatre and Creole food forming part of the programme.
October considerations: Seychelles remains tropical, with temperatures typically around 25–30°C and sea temperatures close to 28°C. Short showers can still appear even when much of the day is bright and warm, so it is not as dependable for completely dry weather as Sharm El Sheikh or Dubai. From London, journeys to Mahé usually take around 13–14 hours with one stop.
Read Also: Seychelles best time to visit | Which Seychelles island is the best
14. Marrakech, Morocco
Why October: October is a good time to visit Marrakech once the fierce summer heat begins to ease. Days remain warm and sunny, but walking through the medina and spending longer outdoors becomes much more comfortable. With a flight of around three and a half hours from London, it also works well for a shorter autumn break.
What to expect: Explore the bustling souks of the medina, filled with exotic treasures and aromatic spices. Wander through the serene gardens of Jardin Majorelle and discover the city’s rich history at the Bahia Palace. Evenings around Jemaa el-Fna bring food stalls, performers and a completely different atmosphere once the daytime heat fades. From 22 to 25 October 2026, Marrakech Folklore Days brings folk dance and music groups from around the world to Marrakech, with performances and parades around the city and Jemaa el-Fna.
October considerations: Daytime highs are typically around 29°C, but evenings feel noticeably cooler, so a light layer is useful after sunset. Marrakech is inland, making it better suited to sightseeing and culture than a beach holiday. Travellers looking for a Moroccan coast break may prefer Agadir.
Where Is Warm in October 2026?
15. Mauritius
Why October: Mauritius is one of the stronger long-haul choices in October. The island is warming up after its cooler winter months, making Mauritius holidays a good option before the wetter and more humid summer weather arrives.
What to expect: Beaches can be balanced with botanical gardens, waterfalls, mountain scenery, markets and golf courses, so there is plenty to do away from the resort. Le Morne brings mountain scenery and a quieter stretch of coast, while Grand Baie has more restaurants, shops and activity around the waterfront.
October considerations: Temperatures vary around the island, with long-term October averages of around 19–27°C overall, although the warmer north and west can reach the high 20s. The sea is around 24°C, cooler than in the Maldives or Seychelles but still suitable for swimming. Different coasts have their own microclimates, so conditions around Le Morne can differ from the north around Grand Baie.
16. Cyprus
Why October: Cyprus remains one of the strongest European choices for late-season sun, with warm weather, plenty of sunshine, fewer crowds, and pristine beaches. October is outside the peak summer rush, so you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere than during the busiest summer months.
What to expect: The island offers plenty beyond the coast, including the Tombs of the Kings within the UNESCO World Heritage property of Paphos and the archaeological site of Kourion. Beaches around Paphos, Protaras and Ayia Napa remain inviting, while the cooler daytime heat makes it much easier to spend longer exploring away from the resort. For visitors in Ayia Napa, the 21st Agia Napa Medieval Festival will take place from 14 to 18 October 2026, bringing street theatre, music, dance, medieval markets and costumed performances to the town centre.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures average around 27°C, with cooler evenings near 16°C, while the sea remains around 25°C after the summer. Early October is usually the stronger chance of proper beach weather, with occasional rain becoming more likely later in the month. Cyprus is also easy to reach from the UK. Direct flights from London take around 4 hours 35 minutes.
17. Agadir, Morocco
Why October: Agadir works well for travellers who want Moroccan warmth with the sea close by. October still brings plenty of sunshine, but the summer heat has eased, making the beach, promenade and days out along the coast much easier to enjoy.
What to expect: Agadir’s long sandy beach and seafront promenade are the main draw, while the marina, Souk El Had and nearby Taghazout add more variety. Taghazout is particularly well known for surfing, so the area suits travellers who want more than simply a week beside the hotel pool. Morocco’s official site also highlights Agadir and Taghazout as a year-round coastal destination.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures average around 26°C, with evenings closer to 17°C. Rainfall is still fairly limited, although October marks the beginning of a gradual move towards wetter winter weather. The Atlantic is cooler than the Mediterranean or Red Sea, with temperatures around 20°C, so Agadir suits sunshine, beach walks and surfing more than travellers looking for very warm swimming water. Direct flights from London Gatwick take just under 4 hours, keeping Agadir firmly in short-haul territory for UK travellers.
18. Antalya, Turkey
Why October: Antalya holds onto its summer warmth well into October, making it a good choice for travellers who want beach time without the stronger heat of July and August. Antalya holidays can also feel more relaxed at this time of year, once the busiest summer crowds have started to thin out.
What to expect: Dive into history at ancient sites like Perge and Aspendos, or unwind on golden beaches with fewer crowds. The old streets of Kaleiçi are also much easier to wander once temperatures have dropped, with plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops around the harbour. Later in the month, the International Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival brings screenings and cinema events to the city, adding something different for visitors travelling in late October.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures average around 27°C, with evenings dropping to roughly 16°C. Early October normally gives the best chance of proper beach weather, while rain becomes more likely towards the end of the month. Direct flights from London take around 4 hours 15 minutes, so Antalya remains an easy Mediterranean option for an October break.
Read Also: Best time to travel to turkey 2026 | Best turkey beaches
Visting Turkey in October
19. Canary Islands (Tenerife)
Why October: October brings the Canary Islands a perfect blend of warm temperatures and fewer crowds, making them an easy choice for the autumn sun from the UK. Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a warm and sunny destination in October, with pleasant temperatures around 27°C. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are also worth considering for beach time and outdoor days.
What to expect: Explore diverse landscapes, from volcanic terrain to pristine beaches, ideal for hiking and water sports. In Tenerife, visitors can relax on beaches around Playa de las Américas, explore the dramatic landscapes of Teide National Park, or wander through charming towns such as La Orotava and Garachico. Whale watching, hiking, and sampling local Canarian cuisine add to the experience.
October considerations: Daytime highs are usually around 27°C, with evenings and overnight temperatures around 20°C. Southern Tenerife, particularly around Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas, is generally the better choice for a sunshine-led break than the greener north. The sea remains comfortable for swimming, while direct flights from London to Tenerife take around 4 hours 30 minutes.
20. Seville, Spain
Why October: October is a much easier month for exploring Seville once the intense Andalusian summer has passed. The city stays pleasantly warm through the day, but walking between its historic sights feels far more comfortable than it does in July or August.
What to expect: Seville is one of Spain’s best-known city-break destinations. Wander through the enchanting streets of the historic centre, stop for traditional tapas and flamenco performances, and spend time around some of Seville’s best-known landmarks. The Alcázar Palace, Seville Cathedral and Plaza de España are all easier to enjoy without the strongest summer heat.
October considerations: Seville is better thought of as a warm city break than a beach destination. Daytime temperatures are usually around 26°C, with mornings and evenings dropping closer to 15°C, so a light layer is useful after sunset. Direct flights from London take roughly 2 hours 45 minutes, making it an easy option for a short autumn break.
Read Also: Best month to visit Spain 2026 | Visting Spain in October
21. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Why October: October brings spring weather to Rio, so days are warm without the heavier summer heat that arrives later in the year. It works particularly well for travellers who want to split their time between the beach and the city rather than spend the whole holiday in a resort.
What to expect: Copacabana and Ipanema are still very much part of the experience, but Rio has plenty to fill the day away from the sand. Sugarloaf Mountain, Christ the Redeemer, neighbourhoods such as Santa Teresa and Lapa, restaurants and nightlife are all within easy reach of the beachfront areas.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures are usually around 28°C, falling to roughly 20°C at night, while the sea averages about 22°C. October is also wetter than Rio’s winter months, with around 115 mm of rainfall on average, so sunshine is not as dependable as in places such as Sharm El Sheikh or Dubai.
22. Malta
Why October: Malta still has plenty of warmth in October, with fewer crowds than during the height of summer. Enjoy pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the island’s rich history, from ancient temples to medieval cities. Beach time is still possible too, especially during the warmer first half of the month.
What to expect: Valletta, Mdina and Malta’s prehistoric temples give plenty of reasons to spend time away from the coast, while the harbours and beaches are never far away. The sea still holds onto much of its summer warmth, so water sports or leisurely swims can easily be combined with sightseeing and boat trips. On 3 October 2026, Notte Bianca will take over Valletta, with museums, historic buildings, streets and public spaces opening for performances, exhibitions and cultural events.
October considerations: Malta is warm rather than reliably hot. Daytime temperatures are usually around 25°C by day and 18°C at night. Rain becomes more likely as the month goes on, although the island has enough museums, restaurants and historic sites to make a changeable day easy to work around. Direct flights from London take around 3 hours 15 minutes.
23. Kos, Greece
Why October: October can be a good time to visit Kos, Greece, with mild, pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The island feels noticeably quieter once the main summer rush has passed, while the first half of the month can still bring enough warmth for days by the coast.
What to expect: Explore ancient ruins, enjoy quiet beaches, and experience authentic local culture. Kos Town, the Asklepieion and other archaeological sites are much easier to visit without the stronger summer heat. The sea remains suitable for swimming, so beach time can still be part of the holiday, particularly earlier in October.
October considerations: Daytime temperatures are usually around 24°C, with evenings dropping to roughly 15°C. Rain is more likely than during summer, so early October generally offers the better chance of settled beach weather. Direct flights from London take around four hours, keeping Kos within easy reach for an autumn break from the UK.
Read Also: Best time to go to Greece 2026 | Best Greek islands to visit
Know about Greece in October
24. Algarve, Portugal
Why October: October suits the Algarve once the summer crowds have thinned out. The beaches feel calmer, the roads are quieter and the weather is still mild enough for long days outside without the harsher summer heat.
What to expect: Enjoy pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities like hiking along rugged cliffs or golfing on world-class courses. Lagos, Tavira and the smaller coastal towns are easier to get around at this time of year, while seafood restaurants and beach cafés still give plenty of reason to linger by the coast.
October considerations: Temperatures are usually around 23°C during the day, with cooler evenings and a greater chance of rain as the month goes on. The Atlantic can feel brisk for swimming, so October makes more sense for coastal walks, sightseeing, golf and the odd beach afternoon than for anyone expecting full-on summer weather. Direct flights from London to Faro take around three hours.
25. Rome, Italy
Why October: Rome is much easier to enjoy in October once the stronger summer heat has passed. Days are usually mild enough for long walks between the city’s historic sights, while the busiest summer crowds have started to ease.
What to expect: Explore landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City after the peak summer crowds have started to ease. The Roman Forum, Pantheon and neighbourhoods such as Trastevere are also easier to take in when temperatures are cooler. Evenings still lend themselves to savouring authentic Italian cuisine at cosy trattorias, particularly after a full day on foot. The 21st edition of the Rome Film Fest will run from 14 to 25 October 2026 at Auditorium Parco della Musica, with screenings, premieres and events held across the city.
October considerations: Rome is mild rather than hot in October, with daytime highs around 22°C and nights closer to 13°C. Rain becomes more common than in summer, so it is better suited to sightseeing, food and culture than a guaranteed sunshine break. Direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) to Rome take around 2 hours 40 minutes, making it one of the easiest options on the list for a short autumn city break.
Read Also: Best month to visit Italy | Visit Italy in October
Start Planning Your October Escape Today
October brings in cooler and crisp autumn, offering you an ideal window to escape the autumn chill at home and soak up sun, warmth, and culture in different places globally. Whether it’s relaxing on Bali’s golden beaches, exploring ancient ruins in Kos or Antalya, or enjoying the festive charm of Seville and Malta, there’s a destination for every kind of October holiday.
If you are a nature lover, you can immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s lush landscapes or hike the Canary Islands’ dramatic terrain, while Sharm El Sheikh and Cape Verde bring warm seas and easy-going beach days. Further afield, Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives suit travellers looking for tropical scenery, while Dubai adds stronger heat, city life and plenty to do beyond the beach.
October can bring UK travellers fewer crowds, better value than peak summer in some destinations, and comfortable temperatures for beach days, sightseeing and outdoor activities.
These destinations are some of the best that you can visit during the month. You can browse through the tailor-made holidays crafted by the experts at Luxtripper and pick the one that suits you best. You can also get in touch with one of our experts, who will help you create a customised holiday, just the way you want it.
FAQ
Where is hot in October for a family holiday?
October is an ideal time for a family holiday in destinations like the Canary Islands. With temperatures still warm, families can enjoy outdoor activities such as beach days, hiking, and exploring local attractions without the intense summer heat. The Canary Islands offer family-friendly resorts with amenities catering to all ages, from kids’ clubs to water parks. October can also feel more relaxed than the peak summer months, with more space to enjoy beaches and local attractions.
Where is hot for a beach holiday in October?
Sharm El Sheikh, Cape Verde and the Canary Islands are some of the strongest choices for an October beach holiday. Sharm El Sheikh offers warm Red Sea temperatures and plenty of sunshine, while Cape Verde combines hot weather with long Atlantic beaches. The Canary Islands are slightly milder but remain a reliable short-haul option from the UK, with warm days and plenty of beach time still possible.
Is early or late October better for warm weather?
It depends on where the holiday is heading. Cyprus, Kos, Malta and Antalya usually feel more summery at the beginning of October, with cooler evenings becoming more noticeable later in the month. In Dubai, Doha and Muscat, the opposite is true, as the heat and humidity gradually becomes easier to handle towards the end of October.
Can you swim in the sea in October?
Yes, in many destinations the sea is still comfortably warm. Sharm El Sheikh, Dubai, the Maldives, and Cancún all have particularly warm water in October. Swimming is also pleasant for many visitors in Cyprus, Malta, Antalya and the Canary Islands, while the Atlantic around Agadir and the Algarve tends to feel much cooler.
