Whether you are planning a family trip during half-term or simply need a holiday before winter hits the UK, experts have found the top places to visit for an October trip.
City breaks continue to dominate getaways, making up 61.2 per cent of bookings. This is up slightly from 56.8 per cent in 2024.
The stats come from research by lastminute.com, which also found Amsterdam, Rome and Paris are particularly popular - making the top five list in 2024 and 2025.
Most-booked destinations for October
- Amsterdam
- Rome
- Malta
- Krakow
- Paris
Amsterdam has proved popular as the most-booked destination for October
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Rome is easily reachable from the UK and makes a great autumnal getaway
| GETTYNot only do these destinations have incredible landmarks and culture to immerse in, but they are also affordable and only a short distance from the UK.
Speaking to GB News, head of brand for lastminute.com, Zoe Fidler, said: “Brits are keeping half-term simple this year – our top five destinations booked are a mix of year-round classics like Amsterdam, Rome and Paris, with a few rising stars in Malta and Krakow.
“Amsterdam, Rome and Paris remain ever-popular, thanks to their short flights and easy connections, making their food and culture even more attractive to holidaymakers. They’re the kind of city break you can return to time and again and still discover something new.
"Combining these five destinations presents us with a varied selection showcasing the best of city breaks and sea and beach getaways, the tried and tested locations, and the adventurous picks - but they all remain in close proximity for a perfect last-minute half-term getaway.”
Malta and Krakow proved to be the most unexpected additions to the list for this year, but it is no surprise why people want to go - "Malta holds a promise of sunshine without a long-haul flight for those seeking October rays".
Indeed, the country enjoys temperatures up to 25°C in October, and is just three hours from London - much shorter than long-haul destinations that offer sun at this time of year.
Krakow in Poland is perfect if you are looking to explore its vibrant culture through historical streets, while taking advantage of low prices.
Zoe added: “Krakow is a great-value trip that is gaining popularity with its lively social scene and rich culture - it offers great value and something a bit different to other classic European destinations."
TRAVEL INSPIRATION
Kraków is a cheap option and a new addition to the list
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Malta has mild temperatures in October
| GETTYTop deals
3* Hotel Fogo Amsterdam
October 27, 4 nights + flights from London
From £209pp (based on 2, adults, 2 children)
3* Happy Village & Camping
October 27, 4 nights + flights from London
From £324pp (based on 2 adults, 2 children)
4* AX Sunny Coast Resort & Spa
October 27, 4 nights + flights from London
From £468pp (based on 2 adults, 2 children)
3* Hotel Świt
October 27, 4 nights + flights from London
From £217pp (based on 2 adults, 2 children)
3* hotel F1 Paris Saint Denis Université
October 27, 4 nights + flights from London
From £190pp (based on 2 adults, 2 children)