2025 is seeing the rhythm of European travel shift. Once dominated by the height of summer, the most desirable months are now found in the golden weeks of autumn.
October is fast becoming the new August – when Mediterranean waters still hold their warmth, the sun casts a softer glow over cobblestone streets, and hotels welcome guests with a quieter, more indulgent atmosphere.
Autumn travel offers more than just perfect temperatures. Think fewer crowds, vibrant cultural events, and landscapes at their most picturesque. From Portugal’s colourful harbours to Tuscany’s rolling hills and the Andalusian coast, here are four idyllic escapes to book this October.
Finca Cortesin – Andalusia for the Active Traveller
On Spain’s southern coast, Finca Cortesin feels especially magical in October. Mild days make it the ideal setting for golf, padel, and outdoor exploration. Guests can tee off on its championship course, cycle through olive groves, or wander through the nearby pueblos blancos before unwinding at the Beach Club. Evenings bring cooler breezes and al fresco dining at El Jardín de Lutz – the perfect way to end an active day.
Anassa – Cyprus by the Sea
For family-friendly late-season sun, Anassa is Cyprus at its finest. October seas stay warm enough for sailing, diving, and paddleboarding, while coastal trails invite leisurely walks. The resort’s beachfront setting, thalassotherapy spa, and Mediterranean dining paired with its baby-go-lightly services make it a sanctuary for families seeking one last sun-soaked escape before winter sets in.
The Largo Porto – Autumn in Portugal’s City of Wine
In Porto, autumn brings the Douro Valley to life with harvest season in full swing. Nestled in the historic quarter of Largo de São Domingos, The Largo is the perfect base for vineyard visits, riverside strolls, and evenings of seasonal Portuguese gastronomy led by Chef Nuno Mendes. With crisp blue skies, fewer crowds, and golden sunsets over the Dom Luís I Bridge, Porto in October feels more intimate than ever.
Borgo Santo Pietro – Tuscany During Harvest Time
October transforms Borgo Santo Pietro’s 300-acre estate into a living postcard, where grape harvests, olive picking, and truffle hunts take centre stage. Guests can join immersive cooking classes or savour estate-grown produce at its Michelin-starred restaurant, Saporium. Cooler days make Siena and Florence perfect for exploring, while evenings spent by the fire embody true Tuscan comfort.
Why October is the Month to Travel
This October, Europe delivers the best of both worlds – the warmth and vibrancy of summer combined with the ease and richness of autumn. For those in the know, it’s the season when travel feels more personal, more authentic, and the very best it can be.
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