Best destinations to visit in October in Europe
Best destinations to visit in October in Europe
October brings full autumn to Europe, with cooler air and changing leaves replacing the last of summer's warmth.
Fall foliage peaks across much of Central and Northern Europe this month, drawing travelers to countryside regions and forested parks specifically for the colors. Halloween events add a seasonal touch to cities toward the end of the month, alongside harvest festivals tied to the grape and apple picking season. Southern Europe stays milder for longer, offering a warmer alternative for travelers not ready to leave summer behind just yet. Crowds and prices continue to ease across most of the continent compared to the busy months before. Shorter days also start to become noticeable, especially further north, as the clocks prepare to change back for winter.
The destinations on our list for Europe reflect that same range, from peak fall color to milder, sunnier stretches further south.
Lists by region
City in Germany
Munich
Bavarian capital of beer gardens and museums
Beer tents on the Theresienwiese hold the last weekend of Oktoberfest in the first days of October. Afterward the city turns calm and golden. Leaves fall in the English Garden, one of Europe's largest city parks. Stalls at Viktualienmarkt sell pretzels, sausages and warm cider.
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