Best Places to Visit in October: Where to Travel This Fall

The New England Region

Want a splash of color this October? The Northeast region of the US is particularly breathtaking in early fall when temperatures have yet to plummet and trees are just starting to turn their different shades of red, orange, and yellow. Take a drive between small New England towns and coastal communities (where you’re sure to get cheaper, off-season prices), or stick to big cities like Boston and Providence for a more urban leaf-peeping experience.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly trip that kids will love, this region has a number of Halloween-themed festivities in the month of October. Drive to the sleepy town of Salem, MA (home to the famous witch trials) to take part in their month-long celebration, Go apple picking at local orchards scattered across Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire, or marvel at the many-hued pumpkins at the various pumpkin festivals, like the one in Keene that take place in New Hampshire during this month.

Pirate tip: Some of the best fall foliage we've spotted was in the White Mountains region of New Hampshire. Drive through the scenic Kancamangus Highway or visit one of the five notches in the state.

The Pacific Northwest

Think Nor. Cal, Oregon, Washington, and upwards to British Columbia. This region of the US is known for its incredible hiking trails and for being the epitome of quintessential cozy fall. Visit the Redwood Forests and Sequoia National Park in California, or venture over to Olympia National Park in Washington State. Climb through the Pacific Northwest trails where you'll be greeted with stunning cascading waterfalls and mossy earth. Soak in natural geothermal pools in British Columbia and explore the Rockies.

Paris, France

Tourists may flock to France in summer, but fall is one of the best times of year to visit Paris. The weather is temperate, with a mix of cooler days and warm, sunny ones. Walk along the Seine, taking in the changing colors of the leaves and browsing the books for sale from street vendors. Once you’ve had your fill of the river, Paris’ well-cultivated parks and gardens are perfect for a stroll, especially on a sunny day—we recommend the Jardin des Tuileries, where the iconic columns of trees become a kaleidoscope of color come October.

1. Prague, Czech Republic

Many ghosts haunt Prague's historic streets and alleys. With a bit of "luck", you will meet the headless Knights Templar in Prague's Old Town, encounter the Golem of Prague or hear the screams of demons from Houska Castle - Czech Republic's own "Gateways to Hell".

2. Changi Beach, Singapore

One of the spookiest places in Singapore is also a beautiful beach. The old Changi Hospital on the seafront held and tortured around 50,000 Allied prisoners during World War II. Supposedly you can still hear echoes of the screams on the beach.

3. Sighisoara, Romania

Sighisoara is a dream destination for Halloween, especially for vampire fans. After all, this is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. The cruel prince of the Principality of Wallachia was the inspiration for Bram Stoker's world-renowned novel Dracula.

4. London, UK

London is teeming with scary stories. Two of the most popular tourist attractions are haunted by countless ghosts. Both Westminster Abbey and the Tower of London are world famous for being haunted. But there are atrocities happening across the city that will send shivers down your spine. And of course, don't forget Jack the Ripper who plagued the streets of the White Chapel neighborhood.

City Trip to Athens

If you want to combine a city trip with some beach time, Athens is the place for you. Stroll through the streets of the Greek capital, head to the Acropolis and enjoy a tasty pita in between. In October the temperatures are lower than in summer, but you don't have to freeze. Those who have had enough of sightseeing can visit the beaches around Athens, which can be reached by car within 30 to 60 minutes from the center.

City Trip to Berlin

Berlin is casual, Berlin is cheap, Berlin is a city where everything is possible. Here you can beat the night away and party in the best clubs in town from Thursday to Sunday. You can fire up the barbecue in the city's numerous parks at sunset, discover lots of art and culture and shop until your wallet glows. Berlin has everything, Berlin can do everything.

City Trips to Lisbon

Great weather? Super relaxed city? Great location right by the sea? You can get that in Lisbon. Portugal's capital on the Atlantic lures with lots of Mediterranean flair, delicious fish, port wine, and interesting architecture. From the impressive São Jorge Castle to the pastel-colored houses of the old town, there is a lot to discover here. Especially in October, Lisbon is perfect for escaping everyday life and experiencing new things.

City Trip to Boston

Early October is a great time to visit the city of Boston, Massachussetts. With fall foliage hiting its peak in this New England city. Walk along the historical cobblestoned streets, grab a beer at Samuel Adam's brewyard, or grab a hot bowl of chowdah (chowder).