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As autumn edges closer and the leaves begin to fall, we often find ourselves asking, “Where is hot in Europe in October?”. Bank accounts are still recovering from a summer of festivals and peak-season trips, but the desire to extend the season and top up vitamin D without the long-haul flight time is strong. After all, October is the clever traveller’s favourite time to go on holiday. The high-summer crowds have melted away and the kids are back in school – bar the October half-term – but much of southern Europe continues to sizzle. Best of all, prices are often much more affordable in this shoulder season as hotels, resorts, and restaurants start to pack down and fill rooms before closing for the winter. From dreamy Italian hideouts to Greek isle idylls and the sandy shores of Turkey’s southern coast, these are our favourite hot places in Europe in October.
For more general inspiration across the globe, guaranteed sun aside, see our guide to where to go on holiday in October.
Where is the hottest place in Europe in October?
The paradisical island of Cyprus is often considered the hottest place in Europe in October. The ‘season’ lasts so long here that many seasonal resorts remain open well into November, while those in nearby Turkey and Greece close their doors in October. According to the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), the average daily high in Larnaca is 28°C.
Is Greece warm in October?
While temperatures in the northernmost regions of Greece plummet towards the end of October, the south coast of the mainland and the Greek islands below retain warm temperatures late into the month. The average daily high in Chania – Crete’s second city – is 24°C, making it a great shoulder season destination with its abundance of history and culture.
Is it hot in Italy in October?
Similarly to Greece, we’re big fans of Italy in October. The summer crowds are easing off and, while it’s still hot in October, it’s not too hot to embark on day trips, hike through national parks and lounge on the beaches. If in doubt, head for the islands – the average daily temperatures of between 19°C and 24°C on Sicily’s beautiful beach are *chef’s kiss*.
