Autumn Abroad: October Trips with Major Vibes.
Hey there, welcome back to the Travel Edit. This week, we'll be continuing our Fall Study Abroad Guide with the month of October. October in Europe is incredible for weekend getaways—think fewer crowds, golden foliage, and cozy vibes. Whether you're wandering through harvest festivals in small villages or strolling crisp city streets with a warm pastry in hand, it's the perfect month to explore. In this post, you'll find some of the best weekend destinations across Europe to soak up autumn charm and make the most of the season before winter sets in.
October Weekend Trip Recommendations
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona in October is a perfect blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant local culture. Tapas bars are still super lively, and nightclubs such as Opium, Shoko, and Razz are all great fun, staying open well into the morning right along the beach. Hiking up to the bunkers for a nice view of the city is also a great way to spend an afternoon. Many people bring bottles of wine and relax as the sun sets upon the beautiful city.
Florence, Italy
Florence absolutely blew me away when I went October of my fall semester abroad. The weather was perfect, my best friend and I were wearing dresses on our winery tour! Taking a tour in Chianti is a must do, and walking up to Piazzale Michelangelo during sunset was amazing. Florence’s walkability is so nice, and we were very happily surprised with the nightlife here. We loved the Lion’s Fountain Pub, and also enjoyed YAB Nightclub. The food here also might have been my favorite in Italy, every meal we had was delicious.
London, United Kingdom
If you’re looking for a cool city getaway with a bit of a fall feel, London is a great option. Hyde Park, Richmond Park, and Hampstead Heath are covered in colorful foliage, and you might even spot deer in the mix. The air is cool but not too cold, ideal for exploring museums, sipping afternoon tea, or catching a West End show. Plus, with fewer tourists and events like the London Film Festival and Halloween, the city feels vibrant but relaxed. As a huge Harry Potter fan, I also recommend a visit to Warner Brothers Studio!! This was an amazing experience and made me feel like a kid again.
Edinburgh, Scotland
October in Edinburgh feels like stepping into a novel — misty mornings, fiery autumn leaves, and centuries-old architecture cloaked in a mysterious charm. The city's dramatic skyline, crowned by the historic castle, is even more striking against the soft gray skies of fall. Cozy pubs come alive with warmth and chatter, while cobblestone streets invite you to explore hidden closes and winding alleys. As Halloween approaches, Edinburgh leans into its eerie past with ghost tours, haunted histories, and the unique Samhuinn Fire Festival — a modern take on ancient Celtic traditions. It's the perfect time to experience the city’s beauty, folklore, and atmosphere all at once.
Happy Travels!!
Now that you have some of the best October weekend getaway spots in mind, hope you enjoy your fall travels! We’ll be back with our November recommendations soon!
