Hello, travelers! Want to head somewhere sunny in October? Far from the crowds and the sweltering heat, enjoy the mild temperatures of Indian summer and savor the pleasures of an off-season getaway. From France to Italy, discover where to go in October to extend your summer by the water or in the great outdoors.
Where can you go for some sun in October?
All Saints' Day Break: Discover the Camargue
Want to spend your vacation right by the water? Head to the south of France: a camping trip in the Camargue is the perfect way to fully enjoy this destination in October. Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department, the Camargue Regional Nature Park takes center stage during the month of October. This biosphere reserve, as incredible as it is exotic, deserves a special place on your itinerary.
In this sunny region, alternate between outdoor activities and visits to Camargue’s towns, all at your own leisurely pace. A camping trip in France lets you enjoy the late season and get away for a few days without having to wait for next summer.
During your October vacation, the still-mild temperatures are perfect for visiting the Pont-de-Gau Bird Park. In this park in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, watch the Camargue flamingos roam freely.
Amid the vast expanses bordering the Mediterranean, set out on a family horseback ride. Imagine yourself in this postcard-perfect setting, riding a white horse with the waves and the sun as your backdrop. Stunning, isn’t it? A beachfront campground makes it easy to enjoy the coastline throughout your stay.
Known for its pink salt flats, the medieval town of Aigues-Mortes reveals a striking contrast between its ramparts, the pink water, and the salt marshes at the foot of the town. Take the time to stroll through the streets before continuing your exploration of the Camargue’s landscapes.
To explore the region, rent a bike and ride through the ponds. Follow the coastline to the herds of bulls, the rice paddies, and the marshes teeming with birds. To admire this wild area rich in biodiversity, take the “Digue à la Mer” route.
Where should you go in Italy in October?
San Remo and Its Lively Alleys
Located on the Riviera dei Fiori, San Remo welcomes you for a getaway on the Mediterranean coast. Take advantage of the fall weather to stroll through the lively alleys of La Pigna, its historic district.
Rich in color, this Ligurian town offers a change of scenery just steps from the fine sandy beaches. Escape to the Ormond Gardens before visiting the Borea d’Olmo Palace. After a stop at Villa Nobel, enjoy a gelato at the Portosole marina.
A campground in San Remo lets you split your days between walks, sightseeing, and coastal fun. To extend this sunny getaway, a campground on the Mediterranean naturally lets the sea set the pace for your vacation.
Venice and Its Romantic Canals
With its pleasant temperatures, early October is a wonderful time to visit Venice. Far from the summer crowds, alternate between the vaporetto and gondolas to get around on the water.
As you wander through the narrow streets, make the most of your October vacation. Sample cicchetti at any time of day, enjoy a drink on a terrace, or share a pizza near St. Mark’s Square. Then simply let the city’s canals and bridges guide you.
Rome and Its Historic Monuments
In October, take advantage of the off-season to explore the Italian capital’s tourist attractions at your own pace. With temperatures still hovering around 20°C, the days remain pleasant for walking and discovering new sights.
During your getaway, don’t miss Rome’s iconic archaeological sites. Must-see attractions include the Colosseum, the Forum Boarium, the Baths of Caracalla, the Forums of Augustus and Caesar, and, of course, Palatine Hill. Plan your visits by neighborhood to save time for a break at an outdoor café or an impromptu stroll.
What to Do in Italy in October?
Want to round out your itinerary? Italy can also be explored through its flavors, its cities of art, and its historic sites:
- discover fall cuisine, featuring mushrooms and truffles in the north of the country, while chestnut season kicks off in Tuscany;
- take advantage of the All Saints’ Day religious celebrations to visit the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica;
- extend your summer in Sicily, where the temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy the white-sand beaches;
- admire Milan’s Piazza del Duomo in the autumn light;
- visit the Palazzo Reale or the Mole Antonelliana in Turin;
- lose yourself in Florence’s art galleries;
- Enjoy a Neapolitan pizza before exploring the archaeological ruins of Pompeii.
A morning at the museum, a gourmet break, then a stroll through the streets: in October, plan your days however you like without trying to see everything.
Why visit the Basque Country in October?
Discover Basque traditions in southwestern France
Considered one of the most eagerly anticipated festivals of the year-end season, the Wood Pigeon Festival celebrates this iconic bird of the Basque Country. On the event’s main day, watch the wood pigeons being released, according to the scheduled program.
Make the most of your fall getaway to meet local artisans and producers. Set to the rhythm of traditional Basque songs and music, take part in cooking workshops or learn how to make strings of Espelette peppers.
At the end of October, don’t miss the events organized to celebrate Halloween with the family. Discover Saint-Jean-de-Luz decked out in All Saints’ Day colors. Depending on the year’s program, children can enjoy treasure hunts, candy, haunted trails, pumpkin drop-offs, creative workshops, or movie screenings.
A camping trip in the Basque Country lets you combine traditions, encounters with locals, and quality family time.
Want to soak up the sun between the Basque beaches and the mountains?
Want to make the Indian summer last a little longer? Dressed in its most beautiful fall colors, the Basque Country is the perfect destination for a getaway as a couple or with the family.
Located in southwestern France and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, this destination combines vibrant natural scenery with strolls through iconic seaside resorts. Take a seat on a terrace near the beaches of Biarritz, Anglet, or Bidart. Since the sea is slightly cooler than in summer, the more adventurous can ride the waves or explore the seabed with the right gear.
A campground on the Atlantic coast lets you enjoy this atmosphere of ocean, beaches, and wide-open spaces.
In the heart of the Basque Country, continue your stay surrounded by nature. Between the sea and the mountains, discover the region’s iconic sites as you hike. Along the GR8 trail, you might even spot some pottoks as you make your way toward the summit of La Rhune.
Where should you go on vacation in October, depending on the weather?
Our rentals in Italy
, 18 to 24°C
Our Rentals in the Camargue
12 to 20°C
Our Rentals in the Basque Country
11 to 20°C
Our Rentals in Brittany
13 to 16 °C
Our Rentals in the Hautes-Alpes
7 to 18 °C
Our Rentals in the Vosges
5 to 15°C
Want to travel in the sun for another month?
Where should you go for a romantic weekend at a campground?
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FAQ: Where to Go in October
To enjoy more pleasant days in October, you can choose the Camargue, the Italian Riviera, or Sicily. These destinations let you continue enjoying outdoor activities and time by the Mediterranean, though the weather isn’t guaranteed. The Basque Country is another option, offering a mix of Atlantic beaches, local traditions, and hikes between the sea and the mountains.
In France, the Camargue and the Basque Country offer two different experiences for a vacation in October. The Camargue can be explored through its lagoons, marshes, Aigues-Mortes, and the Pont-de-Gau Bird Sanctuary. The Basque Country combines the beaches of Biarritz, Anglet, and Bidart with hikes through the hills, particularly toward La Rhune.
Yes, there are several destinations where you can still enjoy the beach in October, including the Camargue, San Remo, Sicily, and the Basque Country. Swimming conditions depend on the weather, water temperature, and the dates of your trip. The coastline is also ideal for walks and relaxing by the sea. If you plan to participate in water sports, be sure to bring equipment suitable for the conditions.
In the Camargue, the All Saints' Day break offers a chance to enjoy a mix of nature, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities:
- watch flamingos at the Pont-de-Gau Bird Sanctuary;
- cycle through the landscapes of ponds and rice paddies;
- go for a horseback ride near the Mediterranean;
- visit Aigues-Mortes and its ramparts;
- follow the “Digue à la Mer” trail.
In October, families can enjoy walks, nature observation, and cultural experiences. In the Camargue, children can watch flamingos at the Pont-de-Gau Bird Sanctuary, go biking near the ponds, or go horseback riding. In the Basque Country, the beaches and trails between the sea and the mountains are perfect for spending days outdoors.