Best cheap holiday destinations to visit in October 2023

You might not equate October with a holiday, but you should be thinking ahead. As the nights draw in, the leaves begin to fall and the weather takes a turn for the worse, a trip to sunnier climes are just the ticket to boost your mood.

It doesn’t even matter if you’ll already travelling in the summer months; when you’re queuing up for your ice cream in the August heat, don’t forget those cooler months in store. Plus, travelling outside of peak season means empiter city centres, more space on the beach, and perhaps most importantly of all: incredible deals to be found.

The shoulder seasons see price falls in many countries, and though temperatures often fall with them, many places in Europe remain pleasantly balmy – and some even come into their own in the autumn weather.

Start thinking of cosy cafes in Denmark, sun-drenched Spanish and Greek beaches, and the autumnal hues of the Tuscan countryside. All that and more can be found on an affordable October holiday – here’s some inspiration to help you plan.

Copenhagen, Denmark

The Danish capital is the home of hygge, which is deliciously defined as “mood of comfort and cosiness that brings feelings of wellness and contentment”. This concept is particularly visible in autumn, reflected in the candle lights and comfort food present in many of the bars and restaurants that line districts such as Vesterbro, Refshaleoen and the city’s newest neighbourhood, Carlsberg City.

Walking around the city is a veritable feast for the eyes. Copenhagen was designated as the Unesco World Capital of Architecture for 2023 in recognition of the range and importance of architecture in the city. This is obvious in Nyhavn, the city’s iconic waterfront district home to colourful townhouses (plus multiple bars and restaurants). Head to Tivoli Gardens to find the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle and the CopenHill, a sports complex cleverly built on top of a recycling plant.

For culture, start at the National Museum of Denmark for some Viking history, then change it up with a visit to the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, a museum showcasing 6,000 years worth of history in exhibitions ranging from Ancient Egypt to the works of Van Gogh.

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Malaga, Spain