Where to go on holiday in October

Enjoy surfing in western Australia

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Best October holidays for... beaches

Short haul: Cyprus
On the Mediterranean island of Cyprus the beaches are now warmed by mellow autumnal sunshine, with average temperatures of 25°C (77°F). Along the northern coastline you’ll find pristine beaches and wild beauty. Romantics will love exploring the protected Akamas peninsula, home to the Baths of Aphrodite where the goddess reputedly bathed awash in orchids, jasmine and butterflies.

Further northeast, the Karpasia peninsula is similarly undisturbed with just a few tiny villages dotted nearby amidst ripening olive and fruit crops. To experience the island’s livelier side head to the renowned clubbing destination Agia Napa on the east coast. The former fishing village is close to stunning white beaches where you can top up your tan with fun and sun seekers. Coral Bay on the relaxed west coast is part of a self-contained resort that’s perfect for families.

Long haul: Australia
Experience life as an Aussie beach bum without the bake factor on Western Australia’s Sunset Coast. The spring season means cheaper flights and sunshine temperatures of 24°C (75°F). Its 12,000km (7,456-mile) Indian Ocean shoreline boasts excellent public facilities and surf conditions.

Popular Scarborough Beach is just a short drive from the centre of cosmopolitan Perth. It buzzes with activities like bodysurfing, windsailing and fishing, while a string of cafés, pubs and clubs line its foreshore. For the ultimate refreshing swim, shed your inhibitions and your swim suit on clothing-optional North Swanbourne Beach. Further south, award-winning Rockingham Beach excels in friendliness and cleanliness, and there are shady nearby parks where you can enjoy a picnic or a barbecue overlooking the sea. When the sun goes down, pull on a warm jumper and sit outside to enjoy the sky’s crimson display.

Best October holidays for... cities

Short haul: Budapest, Hungary
The cultural season is just revving up in Budapest so now’s the time to experience opera or ballet at its grand Hungarian State Opera House. The capital enjoys dry, sunny weather in October – perfect for strolling amongst the fascinating statues in Memento Park, or walking up to the Citadel fortress on Gellért Hill for panoramic views. Follow this with a soak in thermal waters amidst the opulent 19th-century buildings of Szechenyi Bath and Spa. The historic Jewish quarter invites exploration, with moving memorials and one of the world’s largest synagogues. It’s easy to lose track of time in the cafés and bars that line Ráday Street. That would be a shame because more awaits after dark. Deep in the seventh district, arty crowds enjoy atmospheric drinks in crumbling courtyards and underground bars.

Long haul: Buenos Aires, Argentina

La Boca in Beunos Aires
Creative Commons / elNico

Buenos Aires sizzles with atmosphere at any time of year but go now and the Argentinian capital can be enjoyed in a fresher spring climate. The elegant, Parisian-style buildings on Avenida Alvear show the city’s European influences but its Latin American vibrancy is everywhere. Find it on the cobbled streets of San Telmo, the live tango performed in cafés and restaurants, and the colourful houses and artwork on La Boca’s Caminito Street.

Take a trip to the Feria de Mataderos Sunday livestock market and see cowboys perform on horseback. Evenings are for late waterfront meals in Puerto Madero, tucking into a famously tender steak washed down with native red wine. Don’t rush your after-dinner drinks in trendy Palermo Viejo – nightclubs don’t fill up until 0200.

Best October holidays for ... outdoors

Short haul: Cinque Terre, Italy
Conditions in October are perfect to enjoy a 13km (8-mile) walk along Italy’s rugged Ligurian coast. This portion of the Italian Riviera is popular with hikers of all abilities but in October there’s less foot traffic and the sun is still shining. The walk passes through five ancient fishing villages nestling on cliff tops between mountains and the deep blue sea. Only walkers, boats and trains can access the area, which is part of the protected Cinque Terre National Park.

Get the hilly bit out of the way by starting at Monterosso and following the old mule tracks and stone walls, taking time out for pizza on Vernazza’s harbour. The luscious scent of nearby olive groves and vineyards on your way to the last village of Riomaggiore should inspire some further well-earned refreshment at the finish.

Long haul: Canada

October is the time to encounter polar bears in Churchill, Canada
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Make the trip to Canada’s immense Hudson Bay region for the ultimate Arctic experience. Between October and November, hundreds of polar bears roam along the western shores near Churchill, waiting for ice to form so they can start their hunting season.

Numerous tours offer the chance to take you up close to these huge mammals and enjoy a rare encounter. Itineraries also include further exploration of this vast landscape covered in wetlands, rivers and coniferous forests. You can hike the rugged areas between the icecaps and the forest, kayak among Beluga whales, fish for salmon and pike, and travel on a dog sled. Keep your camera at the ready for wolves, Arctic hares, hawks and eagles which have made their home here.