When the leaves start to fall and temperatures drop, it’s tempting to cling to the last rays of summer. The good news? You don’t have to pack away the sunscreen just yet. Across Europe, North Africa, and beyond, there are plenty of places where October still feels like summer — with fewer crowds, lower prices, and just the right amount of sunshine.
Here are 10 warm destinations to visit in October, from Mediterranean islands to exotic escapes where the sea still calls your name.
1. The Canary Islands, Spain
Average temperature: 26°C (79°F)
The Canaries are Europe’s ultimate “endless summer” escape. Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria bask in year-round sunshine, with golden beaches, volcanic hikes, and vibrant seaside towns. October offers warm days without the high-season crowds — ideal for surfing, sunbathing, or exploring volcanic landscapes.
Don’t miss: The Teide National Park at sunset — it feels like walking on another planet.
2. Cyprus
Average temperature: 27°C (81°F)
Cyprus stays deliciously warm well into autumn, with bathwater beaches and bright blue skies. Explore the ancient ruins of Paphos, snorkel in the Akamas Peninsula, or sip local wine in the Troodos Mountains.
Why go in October: Sea temperatures are at their best, but hotel rates drop dramatically after summer.
3. Crete, Greece
Average temperature: 25°C (77°F)
Greece’s largest island offers warm weather, turquoise coves, and hearty Cretan cuisine long after most of Europe has cooled down. October is perfect for hiking the Samaria Gorge or relaxing in Elafonissi’s pink sands.
Pro tip: Visit local villages for olive harvest season — you’ll often be invited to taste fresh-pressed oil straight from the press.
4. The Turkish Riviera
Average temperature: 28°C (82°F)
From Antalya to Kaş, Turkey’s southern coast still feels like summer in October. Expect azure waters, ancient ruins, and waterfront cafés where you can linger until sunset.
Why go: Warm seas, lower prices, and the smell of citrus groves in the air.
5. Malta
Average temperature: 26°C (79°F)
Compact yet packed with history, Malta offers golden limestone towns, hidden swimming coves, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. October’s warmth makes exploring Valletta and the Blue Lagoon a dream.
Don’t miss: The smaller island of Gozo — calmer, greener, and perfect for a quiet retreat.
6. Marrakech, Morocco
Average temperature: 30°C (86°F)
If you crave warmth and a splash of culture, head to Morocco. October brings hot but bearable temperatures, making it the best time to wander Marrakech’s spice-scented souks or take a desert tour to the Atlas Mountains.
Why go: It’s warm, exotic, and endlessly photogenic — and the desert nights are comfortably cool.
7. The Red Sea Coast, Egypt
Average temperature: 33°C (91°F)
Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer summer conditions long after Europe has cooled off. October’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for diving and snorkeling among coral reefs.
Bonus: Combine beach time with a trip to Luxor or Cairo before peak winter tourism hits.
8. Sicily, Italy
Average temperature: 24°C (75°F)
Sicily’s mild October climate is perfect for sightseeing and dining al fresco. Wander through Palermo’s markets, explore ancient temples in Agrigento, or swim off Taormina’s rocky coast.
Why go: Autumn brings wine harvests, fewer tourists, and an unbeatable blend of culture and cuisine.
9. Cape Verde
Average temperature: 29°C (84°F)
Just off the coast of West Africa, Cape Verde offers tropical warmth, Atlantic breezes, and lively Creole culture. Think sandy dunes, turquoise water, and plenty of live music after dark.
Why go: It’s only a short flight from Europe — but feels like another world.
10. Thailand
Average temperature: 31°C (88°F)
If you’re up for a long-haul escape, Thailand in October is warm and transitioning out of the monsoon season. The Andaman coast (Phuket, Krabi) and the Gulf islands (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan) start drying out, offering quiet beaches and great hotel deals.
Why go: Shoulder season = smaller crowds and big savings on tropical luxury.
October is one of travel’s best-kept secrets — warm enough to swim, cool enough to explore, and blissfully crowd-free. Whether you’re after a Mediterranean tan, desert adventure, or tropical escape, there’s always somewhere still basking in sunshine while the rest of the world reaches for scarves.
So pack light, book smart, and chase the sun — summer doesn’t have to end just yet.