Best Places to Travel in Europe in October

Planning a fall trip to Europe? I've rounded up the best cities to visit in Europe in October, my favorite time of year to travel 'across the pond!'

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Is October a good time to visit Europe?

Yes. Honestly, October is the best time of year to visit Europe, in my humble and fairly well-traveled opinion. And, frankly, I can't be convinced otherwise.

​Tiny or non-existent crowds (and therefore happier staff), gorgeous, clear skies, and cheaper flights and accommodations....need I say more? If you aren't yet convinced, check out the full post: Why You Should Visit Europe in the Fall

Wondering what to wear once you get there?
​Fall Europe Travel Wardrobe

Best Places to Travel in Europe in October

Let's drive right in! Here are my favorite places to visit in Europe in October!

Strasbourg

Soak in the flavors of Germany, with all of the French flair that Alsace can offer! Strasbourg is easily accessible from Paris by train, and I promise you won't regret visiting this impressively medieval riverside town.

A Day Trip to Strasbourg from Paris

Edinburgh

My first autumnal trip to Europe was to Edinburgh, and it probably spoiled all future trips for me, with its absolute perfection. Tweed and tartan are the name of the attire game, and clear, Scottish sunshine pours onto the lochs and whisky. Explore the Scottish capital, follow in J.K. Rowling's footsteps, and visit Greyfriar's Bobby.

Why Edinburgh is the Perfect European Destination for First-Time Travelers

Inverness

Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands is a great home base from which to explore Scotland's northern reaches. Look for Nessie on a boat tour of Loch Ness, visit Culloden Moor and learn about the defeat of Bonnie Prince Charlie in the Rising of 1743, and, of course, try the local whisky.

Visiting Inverness from Edinburgh

Rome

Ah, The Eternal City! Fall in Rome is an altogether more relaxing affair than summer. Lower temperatures bring the pressure down all around, as fewer people, now no longer sweltering under the Italian summer sun, stroll the streets the way I'd always imagined. Imagine walking into the Pantheon with no line (before the recent addition of the ticketing system). Take the train up to Tuscany and fall in love with Firenze. Actually have a chance to eat your gelato before it melts. Splurge on some impossibly chic jackets, though you won't need them quite yet in Roma.

Rome's Best Piazzas

Paris

There's no bad time to visit Paris, but October is undoubtedly the best time. It's chilly and breezy, which calls for the requisite Parisian beret and light jacket. Cafe au lait just tastes better when your fingers are tingly and you can actually hear yourself think.

Visiting Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris

London

The pubs are calling. Well, for me the pubs are always calling.

London is calling this October. Curl up next to the roaring fire at Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese and plan a perfect day exploring the City of London. You'll still need your umbrella, but that really goes without saying.

What to Wear in London

Madrid

When Americans talk about Spain, we're all about Barcelona. The Mediterranean, the party scene, the Roman ruins. And while I love Barcelona as much as the next person, Madrid stole my heart. It won't be cold in Madrid in October, but it certainly won't be sweltering hot. Explore one of Europe's finest royal palaces and enjoy some chips and olives (a must) in the enchanting Spanish sun.

10 Things to Know about Madrid

Thanks for stopping by!

You can't go wrong visiting any of these charming European destinations this October. Let me know your travel plans and be sure to check out the rest of the Europe travel tips on the blog! Bon voyage!

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