20 Must-See October Escapes for Your Perfect Weekend

As someone who’s spent years chasing perfect weekend escapes, I’ve learned that October might just be the ideal month for a quick getaway. The summer crowds have thinned out, the weather’s usually spot-on, and there’s something magical about those fall colors starting to peek through. I recently chatted with Sarah Miller, a travel agent who’s helped thousands plan their autumn adventures, and she pointed out something interesting: “October is this sweet spot where you get summer-like warmth during the day but cozy, crisp evenings – perfect for exploring new places without melting or freezing.”

While you could technically head anywhere this time of year, some destinations really shine when the tenth month rolls around. That’s why I’ve put together this list of 20 weekend getaways that make the most of October’s unique charm. Whether you’re looking to wander through apple orchards, explore quiet beach towns, or hike trails without the summer humidity, these spots are worth checking out.

Asheville, North Carolina, USA

Ever watched fall colors dance across mountain slopes while sipping craft beer on a rooftop bar? That’s just another October afternoon in Asheville, where the Blue Ridge Mountains put on their most colorful show of the year. This funky mountain town, tucked away in western North Carolina, serves up the perfect mix of outdoor adventure and urban comfort. You can spend your morning hiking through forests splashed with red and gold in the Pisgah National Forest, then warm up with local chocolate and coffee in the River Arts District. The Biltmore Estate, America’s largest private residence, looks even more impressive when framed by autumn foliage, and the city’s 30-plus breweries offer plenty of seasonal pumpkin ales to sample after a day of mountain exploration.

Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, USA

For leaf peepers seeking the perfect autumn escape, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom offers the quintessential New England fall experience. This rural corner of Vermont, stretching across three counties in the state’s northeastern reaches, comes alive in October when its dense maple and birch forests paint the landscape in rich reds and golds. The area’s winding back roads lead past weathered barns, quiet ponds, and small mountain towns where local maple syrup producers and craft brewers welcome visitors with genuine Vermont hospitality. It’s not the easiest place to reach – you’ll need to venture well off the interstate – but those who make the journey find themselves in a place where time seems to slow down, where morning fog lingers over valley farms, and where the simple pleasure of a hot cider donut at a country store makes the perfect end to a crisp autumn day.

Sedona, Arizona, USA

Many travelers come to Sedona for its famous red rock formations, but this desert gem offers much more than just scenic views. The town sits at the heart of Arizona’s red rock country, where towering sandstone buttes and pine forests create an outdoor playground for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. While the desert temperatures cool down in October, making it perfect for exploring popular spots like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock, visitors can also enjoy the town’s thriving arts scene, browse through crystal shops, or unwind at one of the many spas. Whether you’re interested in spiritual vortex sites or simply want to watch the sunset paint the rocks in shades of orange and red, Sedona provides an ideal autumn escape.

Kyoto, Japan

Many travelers come to Kyoto in October for its famous fall foliage, but this ancient Japanese city offers much more than colorful maple leaves. The former imperial capital houses over 1,600 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, with Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine among the most visited sites. During autumn, the Arashiyama district becomes a photographer’s paradise with its bamboo grove and traditional gardens, while the historic Gion district gives visitors a chance to spot geishas hurrying between traditional tea houses. The cool October weather makes it perfect for exploring outdoor markets, joining a traditional tea ceremony, or taking a peaceful walk along the Philosopher’s Path.

Tuscany, Italy

Ever seen a local nonna making fresh pasta in her kitchen window? It’s an everyday scene in Tuscany, where golden hills dotted with cypress trees stretch as far as the eye can see. October brings the grape and olive harvests, painting the countryside in rich autumn colors and filling the air with the sweet scent of fermenting wine. You can join truffle hunters and their dogs searching through ancient oak forests, or hop between medieval hill towns like San Gimignano and Siena, where every cobblestone street tells a story. The crowds of summer have thinned, leaving you free to explore family-run vineyards and join the locals at harvest festivals that have been celebrated the same way for centuries.

Lake District, England

I first discovered the Lake District on a crisp October weekend back in 2018. Nestled in northwest England, this national park spreads across Cumbria with its rolling hills and mirror-like lakes. The landscape is dotted with cozy villages and historic stone cottages, while sheep graze peacefully on the green slopes. Windermere, the largest lake in England, sits at the heart of the region, surrounded by hiking trails and traditional pubs serving warm meals. The autumn colors paint the hills in rich reds and golds, making it an ideal time to explore the paths once walked by Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. The area’s small inns and B&Bs fill quickly during this season, as visitors come to watch the morning mist rise over the lakes and warm up with afternoon tea by crackling fires.

Bavaria, Germany

Ever watched the sunset paint golden hues across a fairytale castle? That’s just another evening in Bavaria, where October transforms the landscape into a canvas of red and orange leaves. This southern German region, home to the famous Oktoberfest celebrations, offers more than just beer steins and pretzels. You can wander through the cobblestone streets of medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber, or follow hiking trails through the misty Bavarian Alps. Don’t miss Neuschwanstein Castle, the real-life inspiration for Disney’s castle, perched high in the mountains where crisp autumn air carries the scent of pine needles and wood smoke from nearby chalets.

Prince Edward Island, Canada

I always tell autumn travelers to head to Prince Edward Island in October. Along the eastern coast of Canada, this charming maritime province offers quiet beaches, rolling green hills dotted with red-roofed barns, and the literary magic of Anne of Green Gables. You can drive the scenic coastal roads, sample fresh seafood at local fishing villages, and watch the leaves turn brilliant shades of red and orange across the island’s peaceful countryside.

Blue Mountains, Australia

Ever spotted a crimson rosella soaring through a misty valley? That’s just another Tuesday in the Blue Mountains, a rugged wonderland two hours west of Sydney. This World Heritage-listed region puts on its best show in October, when spring wildflowers paint the hillsides and the famous Three Sisters rock formation casts long shadows across Jamison Valley. The mountain town of Katoomba serves as your jumping-off point for bushwalking trails that wind past waterfalls and through ancient eucalyptus forests. Between hikes, you can warm up in cozy cafes or treat yourself to a stay at one of the grand old hotels that have been welcoming visitors since the Victorian era.

Loire Valley, France

My first visit to the Loire Valley was during a fall getaway in 2018. Located in central France, this river valley stretches across 170 miles of French countryside between Sully-sur-Loire and Chalonnes. Medieval castles and Renaissance châteaux dot the rolling landscape, while small villages and vineyards fill the spaces in between. October brings a special magic as the grape harvest wraps up and autumn colors paint the valley’s gardens and forests. The region’s famous wineries open their cellar doors for tastings, and the crisp air makes wandering through castle gardens and cobblestone villages all the more pleasant. Don’t miss Château de Chambord, the largest castle in the valley, whose spires and turrets rise from morning mist like something from a fairy tale.

Douro Valley, Portugal

The Douro Valley is where I send wine lovers looking for their next great adventure. Set along the winding Douro River in northern Portugal, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to countless vineyards that produce the country’s famous port wine. The terraced hillsides stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with family-run wineries and traditional quintas (wine estates) where visitors can sample local vintages and learn about Portugal’s 2,000-year-old winemaking tradition.

Adirondacks, New York, USA

Just a 5-hour drive north of New York City lies the wild expanse of the Adirondacks. While other autumn destinations get crowded with leaf-peepers, this 6-million-acre park maintains its rugged, peaceful character even during peak fall season. Unlike typical mountain getaways, the Adirondacks blend outdoor adventure with small-town charm – think cozy lakeside lodges next to hiking trails and local diners serving maple syrup-drenched pancakes. Thanks to its unique mix of deciduous and evergreen forests, visitors get treated to a longer fall color show, with the leaves starting to turn in early September and lasting through late October. The area’s 46 high peaks and countless lakes mean you can spend your days hiking mountain trails, paddling quiet waters, or simply watching the fall colors reflect off mirror-like lakes from the comfort of an Adirondack chair.

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Just a four-hour drive north of Edinburgh lies the rugged wilderness of the Scottish Highlands. While most visitors flock to Scotland’s capital city, the Highlands offer a completely different side of the country – one where misty mountains meet ancient castles and sheep freely roam the heather-covered hills. October brings a special magic here, as the landscape turns golden and crimson, and the morning fog creates an almost mystical atmosphere. Thanks to its rich history of clan warfare and folklore, you’ll find centuries-old fortresses like Eilean Donan Castle and mysterious lochs that inspired countless legends, including the famous tale of the Loch Ness Monster. The small villages scattered throughout the region, with their cozy pubs and warm Scottish hospitality, make perfect bases for exploring the surrounding glens and valleys.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Take in the fall colors on Jeju Island, where volcanic landscapes meet traditional Korean culture. You can hike up Hallasan, South Korea’s highest mountain, to see golden leaves and unique rock formations along the trails. Visit Seongsan Ilchulbong, a crater rising from the sea, for some of the best sunrise views in Asia. The island’s famous tangerine orchards are ready for harvest in October, and you can pick your own fruit straight from the trees. For a taste of local life, stop by Jeju Folk Village to see traditional houses and try regional dishes like black pork barbecue and fresh seafood stews.

Queenstown, New Zealand

I first discovered Queenstown on a spring trip through New Zealand’s South Island in 2019. Nestled between the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped Southern Alps, this adventure capital draws visitors year-round with its mix of outdoor activities and cozy alpine charm. Small cafes and local shops line the waterfront, while the surrounding mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking and biking. The Skyline Gondola carries visitors up Bob’s Peak, where the views stretch across the lake to the jagged Remarkables mountain range. Come October, you’ll find the last patches of snow perfect for skiing at Coronet Peak, while down in the valley, spring flowers start dotting the hillsides and hiking trails. The nearby historic gold mining town of Arrowtown adds an extra layer of charm with its heritage buildings and autumn colors still lingering from the previous season.

Hallstatt, Austria

Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Hallstatt is one of those places that looks like it jumped straight out of a fairytale. This small lakeside village, with its 16th-century Alpine houses and narrow cobblestone streets, sits perfectly between towering mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Hallstatt. In October, the surrounding hills burst into warm shades of orange and gold, creating a scene that feels almost too perfect to be real. When I visited, I found myself constantly stopping to watch the morning mist roll off the lake and swirl around the church spire that’s stood watch over the village for centuries. It’s not the easiest place to reach – you’ll need to navigate trains and buses from Salzburg – but the journey is worth every minute when you finally catch that first glimpse of what many consider Austria’s most beautiful village.

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia, USA

The Shenandoah Valley has always been my go-to spot when October rolls around in Virginia. This 200-mile stretch of autumn paradise sits between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, where the trees put on their best show of reds, oranges, and golds. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours driving the winding Skyline Drive, stopping at overlooks to watch golden eagles soar overhead, or hiking through forests where fallen leaves crunch beneath your feet. The small towns scattered throughout the valley, like Staunton and Winchester, offer warm welcomes with their local apple festivals and harvest celebrations. If you’re looking for a true fall experience, this is where you’ll find it.

Cotswolds, England

Visitors flock to the Cotswolds for its collection of honey-colored limestone villages and rolling hills that feel frozen in time. This region of England spans across six counties, where ancient market towns like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water offer a perfect base for exploring the countryside. The area’s network of public footpaths winds through sheep-dotted meadows and past centuries-old churches, making it ideal for both casual walks and longer hikes. October brings a special charm as the leaves turn golden and local pubs light their fireplaces, serving hearty British fare and local ales. Whether you’re browsing antique shops in Tetbury or following the Cotswold Way through quiet villages, the region provides a peaceful escape from city life.

Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada

I first discovered Charlevoix during a spontaneous October drive through Quebec in 2019. Nestled between the St. Lawrence River and the Laurentian Mountains, this picturesque region sits about four hours northeast of Montreal. Small French-Canadian villages dot the countryside here, connected by winding roads that showcase the area’s famous fall colors. The local farms and artisanal cheese makers welcome visitors, while the historic Le Manoir Richelieu hotel stands proud on a cliff overlooking the river. The region’s unique landscape was shaped by a meteorite impact millions of years ago, creating the rolling hills that now draw hikers and photographers, especially when the maple trees turn bright red and orange in autumn.

Hokkaido, Japan

If you’re looking to experience autumn at its finest, Hokkaido should be at the top of your list. This northernmost island of Japan transforms into a painter’s palette in October, when the maple and ginkgo trees put on their annual show of red and gold. The cool mountain air makes it perfect for outdoor wandering, whether you’re soaking in natural hot springs or hiking through Daisetsuzan National Park. What I love most about visiting in fall is how the locals embrace the season – farmers’ markets overflow with fresh harvests, and you’ll find yourself warming up with bowls of miso ramen in cozy restaurants. It’s a place where you can spend your mornings watching the fog lift from ancient forests and your evenings sampling seasonal sake in traditional izakayas.