Where to travel in October: from Italy’s harvest to Japan’s autumn foliage

October represents a favorable period for international travel. The reduction in flows compared to the summer months allows easier access to art cities, archaeological sites, and coastal destinations, while accommodation and transport prices tend to stabilize, creating broader margins for planning.From a climatic perspective, autumn in the Northern Hemisphere brings mild temperatures across much of Europe and the Mediterranean. In the Southern Hemisphere, it coincides with spring, with rising values and an expansion of outdoor activities. This seasonal difference opens the possibility of choosing diverse destinations, tailoring itineraries to the specificities of each geographical area.

Australia

October marks the beginning of the Southern Hemisphere spring. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, temperatures range between 18 and 25 degrees in Sydney and Melbourne, with limited rainfall. The climate makes inland areas and coasts accessible, encouraging exploration of national parks and nature reserves. In the south, Canberra’s Floriade Festival attracts visitors from across the country with events dedicated to seasonal blossoms.Major cities strengthen their event calendars. Sydney combines outdoor activities with artistic programs, Melbourne hosts the Melbourne International Arts Festival and kicks off the sports season, while Brisbane and the eastern coast open the bathing season, with waters suitable for diving and beaches considered among the top surfing destinations.The country draws travelers interested in endemic wildlife and outdoor activities, from Outback excursions to diving along the Great Barrier Reef. Part of these experiences takes place in remote areas, where access to healthcare facilities can be complex. This is compounded by high medical costs for non-residents. An Australia vacation insurance provides coverage in case of emergencies related to travel in isolated zones or accidents during sports activities.

Italy

Italy confirms its role in autumn as a central destination for international tourism. According to ENIT data, October represents the second seasonal peak for foreign arrivals after summer, with flows concentrated above all in art cities and regions linked to food and wine heritage.Milan opens the season with fairs dedicated to design and publishing, Florence enriches its Renaissance exhibitions, Rome expands its museum and archaeological programs, while Venice becomes more accessible thanks to reduced tourist pressure compared to the summer months. Smaller towns join in with local events that shape the autumn calendar.The season also coincides with the most significant phase of food and wine tourism. The Langhe and Monferrato attract visitors with the Alba International White Truffle Fair, Tuscany celebrates the harvest with itineraries through villages and wineries, and in Trentino-Alto Adige the Törggelen links local wines with traditional Alpine dishes.From a climatic point of view, October ensures favorable conditions. Average temperatures hover around 17 degrees in Rome and Florence and exceed 20 in several southern areas, allowing the bathing season to continue in some locations. However, interruptions in public transport remain possible: strikes may affect trains and buses, causing delays or cancellations. For visitors without access to the national health system or relying on private facilities, healthcare costs can be significant, therefore the best option is to choose a travel insurance in Italy.

Japan

Mild temperatures and decreasing rainfall make October one of the best months to visit Japan. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, averages reach around 19 degrees in Tokyo and 17 in Kyoto, conditions that facilitate travel between urban areas and historic sites.This period coincides with momijigari, the tradition of admiring autumn foliage, which attracts visitors to parks and temple complexes. Kyoto, Nara, and Nikko rank among the most popular locations for the intensity of forest colors, inspiring specific itineraries dedicated to the phenomenon.The cultural calendar includes major events such as the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto on October 22, which retraces the country’s history with costumed parades. The same city also hosts the Kurama Fire Festival, famous for its night torch processions. In Nagasaki, the Kunchi Festival intertwines Japanese and Chinese influences through dances and parades, while in Tokyo numerous food festivals highlight seasonal agricultural products.

Morocco

North African climatic conditions in autumn encourage growing tourist flows to Morocco. According to the Direction de la Météorologie Nationale, average temperatures reach 27 degrees in Marrakech and around 25 in Fez, values that make it possible to visit historic cities and natural areas without the limitations imposed by summer heat. The Atlantic coast, from Essaouira to Agadir, remains suitable for water sports, while the hinterland allows access to pre-desert valleys and itineraries in the Middle Atlas.The month is also marked by cultural and traditional events. In Erfoud, in the Tafilalet region, the Date Festival celebrates one of the most important agricultural products for the local economy with markets, music, and folk dances. Rabat hosts events connected to the contemporary music scene and visual arts, part of a cultural calendar aimed at strengthening the country’s international image.The autumn season thus becomes a favorable moment for rural communities as well, which find in festival-related tourism direct support for their economies.

(Disclaimer: Devdiscourse's journalists were not involved in the production of this article. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Devdiscourse and Devdiscourse does not claim any responsibility for the same.)