European destinations to visit in October

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Tenerife is the go-to spot if you're clinging to summer like it’s a lifebuoy. The beaches are still sunny, the sea’s still warm, and you can hike up a volcano if lounging around isn’t your thing. As for where to stay, Bahia del Duque is home to a winning combination of gorgeous pools, tropical gardens and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Or if you want to go all out, the Ritz-Carlton Abama has more pools than you’ll know what to do with, a spa, and a kids' club so good you might end up joining them.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is buzzing with life year-round, but autumn brings milder weather and fewer crowds. The city is packed with history, culture, and enough things to see that you’ll never get bored. Plus, in October, it’s actually cool enough to explore without melting. For a seriously swanky stay, The Peninsula Istanbul is right on the Bosphorus and even lets you arrive by boat, if you’ve got one. If you’d rather feel like royalty, the Four Seasons Bosphorus has a 19th-century palace vibe and traditional hammams to make you feel like a sultan.

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza isn’t all about nightlife, and in October, the party scene slows down, leaving room for those seeking peace and wellness. Take in the island’s quieter side with yoga sessions, coastal walks, and fresh seafood. Six Senses Ibiza offers eco-luxury on a secluded bay with plenty of activities, from yoga to cliff-diving. If you're staying in town, The Standard Ibiza is a chic, adults-only hotel with an emphasis on design, located right in the heart of the Old Town.

Rome, Italy

By October, Rome is finally cool enough for you to walk around without spontaneously combusting. You can still enjoy gelato in the sun but without the fear of crowds throwing elbows at the Trevi Fountain. Stay at Hotel de Russie and walk in the footsteps of the rich and famous (Leonardo DiCaprio may or may not have been spotted here). Or for something shiny and new, the Bulgari Hotel Roma serves up Italian style and a Michelin-starred restaurant, so you can eat like royalty before waddling back to your room.

Cyprus

If you’re still in denial about summer being over, there’s always Cyprus. It’s hot, sunny, and perfect for beach lounging well into October. At the AMARA in Limassol, they’ve pretty much nailed the ‘fancy but not too fussy’ vibe, with sea-view rooms and celebrity chef restaurants (yep, Nobu is here too). If you want something a little more laidback, Anassa Hotel in Polis is all about infinity pools, stunning terraces, and local charm – just don’t forget to pack your stretchy trousers for all the delicious Cypriot food.

Budapest, Hungary

October might just be the best time to visit Budapest. The misty Danube makes everything feel moody and magical, and the thermal baths are basically giant hot tubs that you never want to leave. The Ritz-Carlton Budapest has that classic old-world charm but with all the modern comforts you could need, plus a seriously good Italian restaurant. Kempinski Corvinus Budapest is a bit more modern, with a cool downtown location, a spa to unwind in, and a Nobu restaurant if you’re craving sushi after all that goulash.

Seville, Spain

Seville in October still feels like summer, minus the sweaty tourists. You can explore all the big sights, like the Real Alcázar and the cathedral, in just a T-shirt – no winter coat required. After a day of wandering, hit up some tapas bars and enjoy the evening warmth. For a cool, stylish stay, Only YOU Hotel Sevilla offers a rooftop pool and Instagram-worthy designer touches. But if you want to go full royalty, Hotel Alfonso XIII is basically a Moorish palace that has hosted real-life kings and queens (and probably more celebrities than you can count).