The 10 Best Places to Travel in October 2026

October is an ideal time to plan a leisure trip, with shoulder season in many popular destinations offering fewer crowds, lower hotel rates, and comfortable weather. According to editorial research analyzed by Groundwork, In the Northern Hemisphere, it's prime time for fall foliage, while destinations south of the equator are welcoming spring with blooming flowers and warming temperatures.

For travelers, October combines autumnal colors, cultural events, and exciting experiences in destinations worldwide.

1. Zürich, Switzerland

In October, Zürich comes to life with fall colors, cultural events, and seasonal experiences. A major highlight is the Zurich Film Festival, running from September 24 to October 4, featuring over 100 films and a packed lineup of talks, masterclasses, and galas with international guests.

Explore Zürich's Fall Activities

• Visit Jucker Farm's annual Pumpkin Exhibition (through October 25), showcasing elaborate pumpkin sculptures and a food festival with immersive activities like fruit picking and an apple maze.
• Head to Expovina Weinschiffe (October 29 to November 12), a floating wine fair transforming boats at Bürkliplatz into a wine-tasting experience overlooking Lake Zürich.
• For outdoor enthusiasts, Üetliberg offers a network of trails with breathtaking views of the city, Lake Zürich, and the Alps.

Stay at the Widder Hotel

Situated in the city's historic Old Town, the upscale Widder Hotel features 49 unique rooms and suites with thoughtfully preserved details, including ancient frescoes and terracotta flooring. Enjoy a stay of two or more nights through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts to receive daily breakfast for two guests, guaranteed late checkout, and a $100 property credit for qualifying food and beverages.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a lively destination in October, with a variety of events and festivals happening daily. Visit LaZoom's Ghosted! Adult-only Haunted Comedy Tour (October 1 to 31) for a humorous and educational experience aboard the company's signature purple buses.

Explore Asheville's October Events

• Check out Luminere at Biltmore (October 1 to 18), an outdoor evening experience illuminating America's Largest Home and its famous gardens with dynamic visuals and sounds.
• Visit the family-friendly Eliada Corn Maze and Festival (October 1 to 31), the 369 Monologue and Short Play Festival (October 1 to 18), a celebration of artists of color, and the Craft Fair of the Southern Highlands (October 15 to 18), one of the country's top craft events.

3. New England, USA

New England is a haven for leaf-peepers in October, with lively fall foliage and comfortable weather. Visit the charming towns of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine for a scenic drive, hiking, or simply taking in the breathtaking views.

Explore New England's Fall Foliage

• Drive the Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire for a stunning display of fall colors.
• Visit the White Mountains in New Hampshire for hiking and scenic views.
• Explore the charming towns of Vermont, such as Stowe and Montpelier, for a taste of fall foliage and local culture.

4. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city of grandeur and culture, with October offering a range of events and experiences. Visit the Vienna Wine Festival (September 24 to October 4), a celebration of Austrian wine with wine tastings and live music.

Explore Vienna's October Events

• Visit the Vienna State Opera (September 24 to October 4) for a performance of La Bohème.
• Explore the Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens (September 24 to October 4) for a glimpse into the city's imperial past.
• Visit the MuseumsQuartier (September 24 to October 4) for a range of art and cultural exhibitions.

5. Japan

Japan is a fascinating destination in October, with a range of festivals and events happening nationwide. Visit the Chrysanthemum Festival in Tokyo (October 1 to 31) for a display of beautiful chrysanthemum flowers.

Explore Japan's October Festivals

• Visit the Tokyo Autumn Leaves Festival (October 1 to 31) for a stunning display of fall colors.
• Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto (October 1 to 31) for a glimpse into the city's spiritual past.
• Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park (October 1 to 31) for a poignant reminder of the city's history.

6. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is a lively destination in October, with a range of events and festivals happening daily. Visit the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (October 1 to 2) for a celebration of jazz music from around the world.

Explore Cape Town's October Events

• Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium (October 1 to 31) for a glimpse into the city's marine life.
• Explore the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve (October 1 to 31) for a stunning display of natural beauty.
• Visit the Bo-Kaap neighborhood (October 1 to 31) for a taste of the city's lively culture.

7. Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a scenic destination in October, with a range of outdoor activities and events happening daily. Visit the Queenstown Winter Festival (September 24 to October 4) for a celebration of winter sports and culture.

Explore Queenstown's October Events

• Visit the Queenstown Gardens (October 1 to 31) for a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
• Explore the Ben Lomond Track (October 1 to 31) for a scenic hike with breathtaking views.
• Visit the Queenstown Museum (October 1 to 31) for a glimpse into the town's history and culture.

8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a lively destination in October, with a range of events and festivals happening daily. Visit the Rio de Janeiro Carnival (October 1 to 31) for a celebration of music and dance.

Explore Rio's October Events

• Visit the Christ the Redeemer statue (October 1 to 31) for a stunning view of the city.
• Explore the Sugarloaf Mountain (October 1 to 31) for a breathtaking view of the city and harbor.
• Visit the Tijuca Forest (October 1 to 31) for a glimpse into the city's natural beauty.

9. Sydney, Australia

Sydney is a scenic destination in October, with a range of outdoor activities and events happening daily. Visit the Sydney Festival (September 24 to October 4) for a celebration of music, theater, and dance.

Explore Sydney's October Events

• Visit the Sydney Opera House (October 1 to 31) for a performance of La Bohème.
• Explore the Royal Botanic Garden (October 1 to 31) for a stroll through the beautiful gardens.
• Visit the Sydney Harbour Bridge (October 1 to 31) for a stunning view of the harbor.

10. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a lively destination in October, with a range of events and festivals happening daily. Visit the Barcelona Jazz Festival (October 1 to 2) for a celebration of jazz music from around the world.

Explore Barcelona's October Events

• Visit the Park Güell (October 1 to 31) for a glimpse into the city's artistic past.
• Explore the La Sagrada Familia (October 1 to 31) for a stunning display of architecture.
• Visit the Barceloneta Beach (October 1 to 31) for a taste of the city's lively culture.

For travelers, October combines autumnal colors, cultural events, and exciting experiences in destinations worldwide. Whether you're interested in leaf-peeping in New England, wine tasting in Vienna, or exploring the lively culture of Cape Town, there's something for everyone in October. For related guidance on workplaces innovators 2026, see our research on Best Workplaces for Innovators 2026.

As the seasons change, October offers a range of exciting experiences and events in destinations worldwide. From the fall foliage of New England to the lively culture of Cape Town, there's something for every traveler in October.