Looking to make your summer last that little bit longer? October is the perfect time for a late European getaway. Think fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and a chance to top up your vitamin D before autumn truly kicks in—all without the hassle of long-haul flights!
The kids are back in school, which means quieter resorts and friendlier prices. That also means you get to enjoy our top-notch facilities and activities without the crowds.
At Mark Warner, we've handpicked the best European destinations to visit in autumn. With our 50 years of holiday expertise, we know just where to find that perfect October escape. Read on to discover your next unforgettable getaway?
Best places to travel in October for sun
Ready to chase that autumn sunshine? Discover some of Europe's sunniest spots for your October getaway. At Mark Warner, you’ll find the perfect places for your October late sun escape.
1. Rhodes, Greece
Fancy extending your summer into autumn? Rhodes, the largest Dodecanese island in the southern Aegean in Greece, is an ideal choice for sunshine. With temperatures hovering around 24 degrees in October, it's the perfect escape from chilly UK weather.
Our recently upgraded Kamari Beach Resort on Lardos Beach, boasts stylish accommodation and everything you’d expect from Mark Warner Activity holiday. Enjoy a range of activities, including free watersports such as sailing and windsurfing tuition, guided cycle tours, tennis and padel courts, and complimentary fitness classes. Finish your perfect day with a pre-dinner cocktail on our beautiful terrace overlooking the bay.
Rhodes isn't just about basking in the sun (though that's certainly a perk!). Lindos, one of the island’s top attractions is just a short drive or taxi ride from the Kamari Beach Resort. Take a stroll through Lindos, a charming whitewashed village with cobbled streets and chic boutiques. Enjoy drinks and Greek tapas on a rooftop terrace, soaking in views of the bay and ancient Acropolis. Or head to the other side of the island and explore the mediaeval vibes of Rhodes Old Town.
The best part? Rhodes is just a 4-hour flight from London Gatwick, with a quick 1-hour transfer to the resort. Sun, sea, and Greek charm await!
Weather in Rhodes in October: 24 degrees
Where to stay in Rhodes: Kamari Beach Hotel
View our Kamari Beach Resort in Rhodes
2. Paleros, Ionian Coast Greece
Welcome to Paleros, our slice of paradise on the Ionian Coast. Nestled on the western side of Greece, Paleros offers warm sunshine and balmy seas well into October, with pleasant and mild temperatures reaching 23 degrees. As the evening approaches, the temperatures tend to drop to 16 degrees. Plus, there are direct flights to Pereza from London Gatwick.
Paleros is an ideal choice for watersports enthusiasts. Whichever activity you're into, from waterskiing, wakeboarding, and rowing, to paddle boarding, kayaking, sailing, or windsurfing, you'll find a wide choice of watersports, with our friendly staff, ready to set you up.
Prefer to stay dry? Enjoy cycling routes, fitness classes under our pavilion, or play some tennis on one of our four tennis courts.
Our Paleros Beach Resort boasts 130 contemporary rooms, two restaurants, and three bars. It's just a 30-minute stroll from the traditional coastal town of Paleros, where you can experience authentic Greek tavernas and laid-back island vibes.
Paleros is also the perfect base for island hopping. The stunning Ionian islands of Lefkada, Kefalonia, and Meganisi are just a boat ride away.
Weather in Paleros in October: 25 degrees
Where to stay in Paleros: Paleros Beach Resort
View our Paleros Beach Resort, Paleros
3. Izmir, Turkey
Craving a Turkish delight this October? Izmir, on Turkey's western Aegean coast, offers a generous 8 hours of sunshine and mild temperatures perfect for an autumn escape.
Our Phokaia Beach Resort, set in private grounds in a secluded bay, near the charming fishing village of Foca, is your gateway to Turkish paradise. Hop on a direct flight from Gatwick, a shuttle from the airport, and then unwind—or partake in a range of pastimes. With the Aegean Sea at a balmy 21 degrees, you can enjoy activities like swimming and watersports well into autumn.
The resort boasts elegant, stylish rooms with a contemporary twist on traditional Turkish design. Stay active with four pools, three flood-lit tennis courts, three pickleball courts, and a wide range of watersports including free sailing and windsurfing tuition. Afterwards, indulge in our impressive spa featuring Turkish hammams, a sauna, and sleek treatment rooms.
Foodies will love our three restaurants (including an à la carte option), three bars, and a coffee bar serving a selection of coffee and cakes. One meal per week at the à la carte restaurant is included in your stay.
October is a great time for exploring Turkey's ancient temples without the summer crowds. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Ephesus is just a 1 hour 45 minute drive away—perfect for history buffs!
Weather in Izmir in October: 24 degrees
Where to stay in Izmir: Phokaia Beach Resort
4. Andalucia, Spain
Craving a Spanish fiesta this October? Andalucia, in southern Spain, offers pleasant temperatures and a variety of experiences. Choose from the picturesque beaches of Nerja, the historic port of Cadiz, or the glitzy resort of Marbella. Don't overlook Torremolinos, which has reinvented itself as an upmarket resort near Malaga.
For a cultural fix, take a day trip to the beautiful cities of Seville or Granada. With temperatures around 24 degrees, it's perfect for exploring or lounging by the pool.
5. Algarve
For a dash of Portuguese charm, head to the Algarve in southern Portugal. With golden beaches, a laid-back vibe, and temperatures around 23 degrees, it's a top spot for culture vultures.
Explore historical sites like Faro Cathedral, Sagres Fortress, or Lagos old town, or simply relax on the stunning beaches. The comfortable climate is perfect for outdoor activities too.
Best places to travel in Europe in October FAQs
Still have questions? We've got you covered! Here are some common queries about October holidays in Europe:
Where in Europe is it hot in October?
Cyprus, nestled between Greece, Turkey and Lebanon, is one of Europe's warmest spots in October. But don't overlook Greece and Turkey—our destinations there are just as toasty and perfect for soaking up that autumn sun!
How warm is Greece in October?
Greece keeps its summer glow well into October! The south coast and islands like Rhodes, Kos, and Crete bask in average temperatures of 24 degrees with 7-8 hours of daily sunshine. Plus, you'll get to experience authentic Greek hospitality without the summer crowds!
Is Turkey warm in October?
Absolutely! Turkey in October is a sun-seeker's dream with 8 hours of daily sunshine and average temperatures of 24 degrees. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts are particularly pleasant, with sea temperatures perfect for a swim.
Is October a good time to visit Europe?
October is a fantastic time to visit Europe, especially if you're after some warmth. While weather varies across the continent, the Mediterranean region offers a perfect escape to soak up some sun before autumn truly sets in back home.
Book your October holiday with Mark Warner
Ready to chase that autumn sun? October in Europe is calling, and Mark Warner is here to make your sun-soaked dreams a reality. Whether you're craving the crystal-clear waters of Greece during a half-term break or the historic charm of Turkey, we've got the perfect deals waiting for you.
Don't let summer slip away—book your October holiday with us today and give yourself something amazing to look forward to!
Need more inspiration? Check out our guides on top things to do in Rhodes, Paleros, and Foca. Or if you still have questions, contact us and let's start planning your perfect October getaway together.
