Still Warm in October: 7 European Destinations Where Summer Isn’t Over Yet

Malta

Tiny Malta packs an incredible amount of history and scenery into its Mediterranean shores. October can still bring plenty of sunshine, making it a lovely time for sightseeing and coastal adventures.

Wander through the golden streets of Valletta, explore the medieval city of Mdina or take in Malta's dramatic cliffs and turquoise coves. You'll get the Mediterranean atmosphere without the height-of-summer crowds.

Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes offers a beautiful combination of beaches, history and Greek island charm. Early October can still feel wonderfully summery, but with a noticeably slower pace than July or August.

Walk through the medieval streets of Rhodes Old Town, spend an afternoon in picturesque Lindos or simply find a seaside taverna and watch the Aegean sparkle in the afternoon sun.

Sicily, Italy 🇮🇹

Summer lingers beautifully in Sicily. The Mediterranean's largest island combines gorgeous coastline with ancient ruins, lively cities and some of the best food in Italy.

Explore the streets of Palermo, admire the historic beauty of Taormina, visit Mount Etna or head toward the coast for a relaxing afternoon overlooking the sea. With fewer summer tourists around, October lets you experience a calmer side of Sicily.

Crete, Greece

Greece's largest island is a wonderful choice for an October escape. Crete often enjoys pleasantly warm days during the month, particularly along its southern coast, while the sea can remain inviting after months of summer sunshine.

Beyond the beaches, October is a great time to wander through Chania's colorful harbor, explore traditional mountain villages or enjoy a long Greek meal without the peak-season crowds.

Costa del Sol, Spain

Spain's Costa del Sol didn't earn its sunny reputation by accident. Stretching along the country's southern coast, the region is known for beaches, whitewashed villages and a climate that stays relatively mild well beyond summer.

Base yourself around Málaga or Marbella and mix beach time with historic neighborhoods, tapas and day trips into Andalusia. October also makes exploring much more comfortable than during the hottest days of summer.

Algarve, Portugal

Golden cliffs, hidden coves and sweeping Atlantic beaches make Portugal's Algarve one of Europe's most recognizable coastlines. October brings a quieter atmosphere while still offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

It's an ideal time for coastal walks, seafood lunches and road trips between towns such as Lagos, Tavira and Carvoeiro. The ocean may feel cooler than the Mediterranean, but the scenery is spectacular in every season.

Cyprus

For travelers chasing warmth later into the year, Cyprus deserves a spot near the top of the list. Its location in the eastern Mediterranean means summerlike weather can linger well into autumn.

Spend your days along the beaches of Paphos, Ayia Napa or Protaras, then explore archaeological sites, mountain villages and local tavernas when you're ready for a break from the coast.