9 of the Most Beautiful Places Around the World to Visit in October
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Many people plan their vacations in the summer when kids are out of school and the weather is warm—but we personally think that fall is such an underrated time to travel. With fewer crowds and cooler temps, you can explore new destinations with ease (and many times, it's a bit more affordable during shoulder season, depending on the destination). Not to mention, the month of October marks the beginning of wine and spice harvest season, as well as the kickoff to arts and culture festivals around the world. From Vermont to Morocco and California to Australia, here are the best places to travel in October.
Burgundy, France
This beautiful French wine region comes to life during the fall harvest season, making October an ideal time to visit. Some of the world’s best wines can be found in Burgundy’s five wine-producing regions—including Chablis, Maconnais, Cote de Nuits and Cote de Beaune. Stay at the Relais & Châteaux property, Bernard Loiseau, and enjoy meals at its two-Michelin-starred restaurant, La Côte d’Or, for the ultimate treat.
Where to Stay: Bernard Loiseau
Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a great city to visit for warmer fall (or, in this case, spring) temperatures. Additionally, Sculpture by the Sea, the largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition in the world, returns to Bondi Beach from October 21 to November 6. There, the entire 1.2-mile coastline is transformed into a sculpture park with over 100 pieces from Australian artists.
Where to Stay: QT Hotel Bondi Beach
Mexico City, Mexico
On October 29, Mexico City will host the 2023 Mexican Grand Prix at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. F1 fans (as well as design lovers and foodies) will love Mexico City for its vibrant culture, incredible food scene, art museums, and beautiful architecture. If you visit in the end of October, you can also celebrate Dia de los Muertos with the locals. Bonus: October has some of the most temperate weather, with averages in the high 60s.
Where to Stay: Las Alcobas Mexico City
Boston, Massachusetts
October is a great time to visit Boston, since you'll enjoy seasonal events such as the regatta and Boston Book Festival, live performances at the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and shows in the Theater District. If you're into Halloween, consider attending Beacon Hill with a Boo which highlights Beacon Hill's rich and mysterious history or take a day trip to Salem to learn all about the witch trials.
Istabul, Turkey
With its beautiful mosques, bustling bazaars, and colorful culture, Istanbul is always a bucket-list destination—but fall is an extra-special time to visit. In October, there are lots of local festivals on the calendar—including Contemporary Istanbul (a contemporary art show that features over 1,500 pieces of art from over 600 artists), the Istanbul Coffee Festival, and the Akbank Jazz Festival.
Where to Stay: Raffles Istanbul
Napa Valley, California
With mild weather and very little rain, October is a beautiful time to visit Napa Valley—plus, it marks harvest time in California's wine country! From crush parties to wine tastings, Napa has plenty of events to help you celebrate in the fall. The changing season also turns the region's fall foliage stunning shades of copper, gold and red.
Where to Stay: Auberge du Soleil
Barnard, Vermont
For the ultimate leaf-peeping experience, break out your flannel and head to Vermont in the fall. Since the temps aren't usually too cold in October, you can still enjoy perfect weather for hiking, cycling, outdoor picnics and more.
Marrakech, Morocco
October is harvest month for saffron, one of Morocco's leading exports. You can find fragrant piles of the spice in the Medina's souks, or head to a nearby saffron farm to try your hand at picking one of the world's most expensive spices (just arrange it with the hotel concierge).
Where to Stay: Royal Mansour Marrakech
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Head to Albuquerque for the International Balloon Fiesta in October. There, you'll see whimsical hot air balloons floating over the city as you explore its amazing culture, food and arts scene. Stay at Los Poblanos, a working lavender farm about 15 minutes from downtown, where you can attend wellness classes, learn how the farm's flowers are distilled into lavender products, and visit the on-site spa.
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