October is a unique time in Europe when the warmth of summer transitions into the autumnal charm of November. If you’re still yearning for a summer experience, there are plenty of European destinations where you can enjoy sunny beaches, seaside promenades, and relatively warm seas.
According to The Guardian, these destinations perfectly blend history, stunning architecture, and vibrant seaside life, making them ideal for an October getaway.
A paradise for history lovers, Genoa offers a treasure trove of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with 42 palaces listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Highlights include Palazzo Rosso, with its 17th-century frescoes, Palazzo Spinola, home to the National Gallery of Liguria, and Palazzo Reale, offering stunning sea views from its terrace. In October, visit Palazzo Ducale for an exhibition on the Impressionist painter Berthe Morisot (October 11 – February 23, 2025).
Beyond its architectural marvels, Genoa is a lively port city where you can enjoy walks along the waterfront and small beach getaways. A stroll along Corso Italia leads to the charming former fishing village Boccadasse. Don’t miss out on local specialities like torta pascualina, seafood dishes, and pasta trenette with tomato pesto.
Often called the "Portuguese Venice," Aveiro boasts a network of canals and a scenic lagoon. A ride on one of the vibrant moliceiro boats is a must to experience the local charm. Aveiro’s compact centre offers an intriguing mix of Art Nouveau architecture, impressive religious buildings, and a traditional fishing district. Top museums to visit include the Museum of Aveiro, the Art Nouveau Museum, and the Aveiro City Museum.
Nature lovers can explore the Dunas de S. Jacinto Nature Reserve, ideal for cycling, or enjoy paddleboarding and windsurfing in the lagoon.
Alicante, located on Spain’s Costa Blanca, blends ancient history with modern charm. From Greek and Roman influences to the narrow streets of its old town, the city is particularly enchanting in early autumn. Walk along the iconic Esplanada d'Espanya, a mosaic-paved promenade lined with palm trees, and relax at the nearby El Postiguet Beach.
Climb to the Castillo de Santa Barbara for breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Costa Blanca. Alicante’s Barrio Santa Cruz is ideal for staying in the oldest part of the city, near cultural treasures like the Alicante Museum of Contemporary Art and works by Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso. Be sure to try the local delicacy turrón (nougat) during your visit.
Zadar, in northern Dalmatia, offers a perfect blend of ancient history and outdoor activities. By October, the sea remains warm, and the tourist crowds have diminished. A walk along Riva Promenade offers fantastic sea views, while historic sites such as the Roman Forum and the Church of St. Donatus provide glimpses into Zadar’s past.
Other must-see spots include St. Mary’s Church, the Romanesque Cathedral of Anastasia, and the Museum of Ancient Glass. Zadar is also famous for its vibrant food market, where you can enjoy fresh, local delicacies.
Instead of heading to crowded Athens or the islands, consider Thessaloniki, a cultural crossroads and port city with a rich history. Walk along the Via Egnatia, a Roman road that once connected the Adriatic to Constantinople, and explore the Archaeological Museum.
For a peaceful retreat, wander through Ano Poli, the old town with Ottoman-style houses and tiny Byzantine churches. Finish the day with a stroll along the Aegean coastline. If you’re seeking adventure, a 90-minute drive south will bring you to the base of Mount Olympus, perfect for enjoying crisp mountain air.
These cities offer a fantastic combination of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making them some of the best destinations for an October holiday in Europe.
