If the prospect of a solid few months of shivering in the wind and rain fills you with dread, a sunny October escape is just what you need. Whether you’re looking for a family half term getaway close to home or want to explore faraway shores, we’ll run you through our top 6 hot destinations in October to help you make it through to Christmas!
1) October Holidays to the Red Sea, Egypt
Average October highs of 32°C
Where better to escape the grey UK skies than Egypt’s famed Red Sea resorts such as Sharm el Sheikh and Marsa Alam? It’s the perfect place for people who love the beach – from stretching out on the sands to snorkelling and scuba diving in the unbelievably clear waters.
If that’s not enough for you, there are also plenty of shopping spots, buzzing bars and mouthwatering restaurants dishing up everything from local specialities to international crowd-pleasers. Or how about a bucket-list Jeep adventure into the Sinai Desert?
Approx flight time: 5.5 hours
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2) Florida October Holiday Deals for Families
Average October highs of 29°C
Jet off to the hot south coast of mainland USA for all the thrills and spills you can handle! Florida’s called the Sunshine State for a reason, with glorious rays beaming down on the famous theme parks and beautiful beaches for around eight hours a day in October.
And that makes it an awesome place to fill the October half term holiday, especially for older kids and teens who might be happy to travel for longer. Plus it’s a dream destination for golfers in Orlando, nightlife seekers in Miami, and outdoor adventurers at Crystal River.
Approx flight time: 9 hours
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3) October Holiday Deals to Cyprus
Average October highs of 27°C
Did you know the Mediterranean is home to hot destinations in October, too? One of Europe’s balmiest islands, Cyprus is a big hit for autumn holidays. Blue Flag beaches are top of the list but there’s so much more to keep you entertained, from family-friendly gems like the huge Watermania theme park to the renowned clubbing scene in Ayia Napa.
For a change of pace, take a road trip through the dramatic scenery and traditional villages of the Troodos Mountains, or step back in time at ancient Kourion near Limassol. It’s just one of an astonishing collection of historical sites in Cyprus.
Approx flight time: 4.5 hours
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4) Lanzarote October Holiday Deals
Average October highs of 27 °C
Fancy a Spanish break this autumn but don’t want to compromise on the weather? Sunny Lanzarote is a winner! Full of beautiful beaches, this Canary Island is packed with great activities to keep everyone happy.
Whether you want to shop till you drop at Teguise market or just relax with a round of golf, you’ll find it here. For the best after-dark scene, get your dance moves on in Puerto del Carmen. But if the thought of bustling nightlife doesn’t thrill you then there are plenty of quieter places to rest by the waves – like Papagayo beach in Playa Blanca, the ideal spot to recharge.
Approx flight time: 4.5 hours
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5) Escape to Antalya, Turkey this October
Average October highs of 26°C
Proving you don’t have to fly all day for a more exotic October break, Turkey’s Antalya region is a real treat. It’s an enchanting east-meets-west kind of a place, where bustling bazaars and impressive mosques sit near top-notch All Inclusive hotels and gorgeous stretches of sand – like Lara Beach.
A top destination for October holidays and deals, spend your time marvelling at natural wonders such as the astonishing landscape of Pamukkale, exploring the Roman ruins that are dotted all around, or splashing about in one of the exciting waterparks.
Approx flight time: 4.5 hours
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6) Cheap October Holidays to Tenerife
Average October highs of 23°C
Looking for a holiday that’s both hot AND cheap in October? Tenerife’s good value at this time of year, and in easy reach of home too. Spend your vacay soaking up the exciting attractions of seaside playground Playa de las Americas or relish the more peaceful vibes of charming Los Cristianos.
Want to add extra adventure to your October holiday? Take a trip up scenic Mount Teide, choose your favourite activities from horse-riding to helicopter rides, or simply stretch out by the pool and enjoy the warm weather. If you want a hot destination where everything’s on your doorstep then Tenerife is your kind of place!
Approx flight time: 4.5 hours
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More October holidays in the sun
Not sure our top picks are right for you? Don’t fret, we’ve got plenty more destinations that are hot in October. Check out these beauties for starters:
• Rhodes, one of the hottest places in Greece (average October high 24°C)
• The stunning island of Malta (average October high 25°C)
• Portugal’s Algarve region, a family favourite (average October high 25°C)
• Caribbean beaches in the Dominican Republic (average October high 27°C)
About the author
Lucy Roberts blogs about all things holiday, with tons of Thomas Cook knowledge. And as a mum of two, she's always looking for ways to help you have family holidays that are memorable for all the right reasons!