Good Countries to Visit in October (2026)

October can be a great time to travel, particularly for those in search of quieter destinations, as for many countries this is a shoulder season. For a lively city break, look no further than Hong Kong where you'll benefit from cooler climes. For stunning Autumnal landscapes, Turkey's Cappadocia and the UK's Lake District are great options. For those wanting to escape the oncoming winter in the Northern hemisphere, head to Chile, where you'll find blooming landscapes and vibrant wine regions. Lastly, Austria's Viennale is on in Vienna this month, perfect for culture-vultures. 

Hong Kong

October is an ideal time to visit Hong Kong as the temperatures are cooler (particularly towards the end of the month), making for more comfortable sightseeing. There are also a number of festivals, so there is a good, buzzy atmosphere. However, this is peak season too, so hotel prices may be higher, and things tend to get booked up early, so it is worth planning in advance. Our top four hotels across Hong Kong include a chic waterfront property in trendy Kowloon and three design-led properties, all with their own unique style.

• Kerry Hotel is a spacious waterfront hotel in an up-and-coming Kowloon neighbourhood. This is a smart and modern urban retreat with panoramic views, multiple outdoor terraces and an infinity pool worthy of your Instagram.
• The Fleming offers a perfect bolthole when the dizzying city of Hong Kong gets a tad overwhelming. It offers an uber cool stay for the style-conscious and those looking for something understated but with impeccable service.
• Mondrian Hong Kong is a design-led hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui with sweeping harbour views. Inside, it's all sculptural lines and bold, modern nods to local heritage. There's a buzzy Italian restaurant, a sleek bar, and an in-room breakfast if you fancy a lie-in. Stylish, central, and refreshingly unfussy.
• Lanson Place Causeway Bay is a design-led hotel in Hong Kong’s vibrant Causeway Bay with a calm, refined feel. Interiors embody understated French elegance with soft light and clean lines. There’s a stylish all-day lounge, evening cocktails, and a 24-hour gym. Quietly polished, without trying too hard.

Turkey (Cappadocia)

There are a lot of draws to planning a trip in October to Cappadocia. Firstly, the temperatures drop from the steamy summers (think mild days and chilly nights), perfect for hot air ballooning, hiking, and sightseeing. The region is also quieter at this time, as the summer crowds have left. Lastly, the Autumn colours are particularly striking, adding to the already spectacular scenery. Our favourite properties in the region include two boutique cave hotels, a property that benefits from epic views, and a standout luxury stay.

• Canyon Cave Hotel is an adults-only hotel in Urgup that blends unique cave living with modern luxury. The rooms, carved from natural stone, evoke an earthy, ancient charm. Guests can unwind with a hot tub, enjoy fresh local breakfasts, or sip drinks by the outdoor fireplace. An immersive, relaxing escape.
• Museum Hotel in Uchisar is a stunning luxury hotel in magical surroundings. Historical, romantic and opulent cavernous interiors make for a perfect honeymoon or couples' getaway. Rooms and suites have subtle lighting, large warm spaces and hot tubs. Plus there's a fabulous restaurant, spa, and gorgeous countryside to explore.
• Tafoni Houses Cave Hotel is an ancient cave dwelling turned boutique escape in Cappadocia’s Ortahisar village. Vaulted stone arches, vibrant tiles, and antique touches create a rich, timeless feel. Enjoy sweeping terraces, fine dining, and artful interiors. A stylish retreat steeped in history.
• La Fairy is an adults-only hotel in Uchisar that offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views. Its chic, modern decor blends effortlessly with the stunning natural surroundings. Enjoy a relaxed vibe with a sun terrace, outdoor lounge, and bar. A peaceful escape, ideal for unwinding.

Austria (Vienna)

While the weather is distinctly cooler in Vienna in October, our hotel experts recommend visiting in this month for fewer crowds, Autumnal hues, and of course, the Viennale. As it is a shoulder month, flights and hotels are often better priced too. Our top pick of hotels includes four chic boutique properties which offer lures such as a central location, a rooftop pool, and gourmet dining.

• Gratzlhotel Belvedere is a boutique-style stay in Vienna's vibrant 12th district. The decor blends the city's old-world character with contemporary design. There are standout local eateries, markets, and independent shops close by. Ideal for a true Vienna escape.
• Schreiners Essen und Wohnen is another chic boutique property in the centre of Vienna, this one boasting a quiet garden location. Smart rooms are simply designed with pine furniture, whitewashed walls and large sash windows. A central courtyard is the perfect spot to unwind with a regional tipple. The ideal inner city hideaway.
• Hotel Grand Ferdinand is set on the bustling Ringstrasse boulevard, in the heart of the city boasting uniquely designed rooms, high-end furnishings and luxury bathrooms with tubs. There are three gourmet restaurants to choose from, and the rooftop pool offers great views over the city. An understated, glamorous choice. 
• Hotel Motto is located on Vienna’s lively Mariahilfer Straße. The interiors mix vintage touches with contemporary style, featuring custom-made details and rich fabrics. Guests can enjoy breakfast at the upscale Chez Bernard or relax in the nearby Viennese café. Ideal for a central city stay.

Chile

For those in the Northern hemisphere looking to escape the oncoming winter, booking a trip to Chile is ideal. Expect to arrive at landscapes in full bloom, a pleasant climate ideal for activities such as hiking, and vibrant wine regions. Our top picks across Chile include a contemporary hotel in the Atacama Desert, a spa and golf property, a hotel near Pucón ideal for hikers, and a boutique stay deep in Chile’s Patagonian rainforest.

• Lake Lodge is situated a few miles outside of Pucón and enjoys a smart, contemporary décor. It offers two self-catering apartments for three people and two private rooms. Spend your days hiking around the area or lounging poolside. An upmarket choice.
• CasaMolle, located in Vicuña in the Elqui Valley, is a laid-back hotel offering a refreshing escape in northern Chile. The earthy tones and modern decor create a cosy, contemporary feel. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, from a relaxing spa to a golf course and outdoor pool. Perfect for a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
• Explora Atacama is a contemporary hotel in the spectacular Atacama Desert. Simply styled rooms feature plenty of glass and wood set against a white background. Feast on regional fare, marvel at the spectacular views, unwind in the spa and embark on one of the many desert expeditions. A truly unique stay.
• Reino Funghi Lodge is tucked deep in Chile’s Patagonian rainforest in the Los Rios region. This fungi-shaped lodge is pure architectural magic in the wild. Inside, it’s all warm wood, curved walls and cosy camp-style blankets. Guests get access to pools, saunas, hot tubs and epic outdoor adventures. A forest hideaway with style.

UK (Lake District)

Why head to the Lake District at this time of year? Book a trip here for stunning orange, amber and red autumnal hues and cool climes perfect for serious hiking. Best yet, this is not yet the school holidays, so you will feel you have the place to yourself. There are some spectacular properties across the region, including a modern hotel complete with butler service, a striking converted Edwardian house, a riverside stay, and a chicly converted 17th-century coaching inn.

• Brimstone is a bold slate-and-glass chalet-style hotel with modern suites and modern-style butlers, designed for indulgence. It is set amongst fine walking country in Cumbria, and with a swish on-site spa, you can be as lazy or active as you like.
• Linthwaite House Hotel offers stylish design in an intimate Edwardian country house. Award-winning dishes and fine wines are served at the restaurant. From its hilltop location overlooking Lake Windermere and the Fells you can explore The Lake District on foot, bike or horseback. 
• Rothay Garden Hotel is a charming riverside country house hotel set in picturesque gardens just outside Grasmere. Luxurious rooms are bright and contemporary, the best featuring balconies with river views. The purpose-built spa is an indulgent extra, and dinners are an extravagant four-course affair.
• The Cottage in the Wood is a chic converted 17th-century coaching inn set in a mountain forest with magnificent views. Despite the cosy-sounding name, rooms are in fact swish and modern. Owner-managed, the real draw (besides the setting) is the Michelin-star dining, making this a great choice for a spoiling rural escape.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to include Where's Hot in October.
• Alternatively, check out our list of the best boutique hotels in the Lake District.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.