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Where Is Hot In October? Short-Haul Trips From The UK

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The UK really did get the short end of the stick when it comes to temperatures in October, but luckily there are a few European and non-European destinations just a short flight away that’ll give you a dose of winter sun. They can often be warmer than some short haul February half term destinations too!

Whether you’re a family who loves to sit back and relax on the beach or explore historical sights and hike to your heart’s content, these short-haul destinations have it all. 

Where Is Hot In October? Short-Haul Trips From The UK

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Where Is Hot In October: Cyprus

Cyprus is a fantastic short-haul trip for families as it takes just under four hours on a plane from the UK. You’ll be happy to know that in October, Cyprus sees highs of 28 degrees, and with plenty of beaches, national parks, and historical sites all around the island, you’ll never run out of things to do. 

Best Areas To Stay In Cyprus

Families visiting Cyprus will enjoy the towns of Larnaca, Limassol, Protaras, Pernera, and Paphos. There are so many family-friendly areas in Cyprus, and although Cyprus is very well known for being a party destination, especially in the town of Ayia Napa, the month of October is during the low season, so no matter where you stay, you will have a relaxed vibe that the entire family will enjoy. 

Best Beaches In Cyprus

If your family are beach lovers, then you really will be smitten with Cyprus as the island has beautiful beaches that are suitable for a range of different activities. Konnos Beach, Nissi Beach, and Golden Beach are all great beaches for families, and Fig Tree Bay is a perfect choice if you have slightly older kids who want to head out snorkelling. 

For a chance to see turtles on a turtle-watching tour, you’ll want to head to Alagadi Beach and last but by no means least is one of the most famous beaches in Cyprus, Aphrodite’s Beach, which features Aphrodite’s Rock. 

Best Hotels In Cyprus

Regardless of which area in Cyprus you choose to stay, there is a huge selection of family-friendly resorts and hotels to choose from. Some of my favourites include the following: 

Best Things To Do In Cyprus

The reason why Cyprus is such a popular destination for young families is that there really is so much to see and do. I mean, you could spend your entire holiday swimming in the pool or kicking back and relaxing on one of the many beaches, but if you prefer to throw in a few activities here and there, Cyprus has you covered.

Firstly, you can explore some of Cyprus’ history by heading out to The Tombs of the Kings and the Ancient Town of Kourion, or If you’ve been indulging a little too much at the buffet and you feel you need to walk it all off, then you can take a hike through the Troodos Mountains, the Akamas National Park, or the Avakas Gorge. 

For activities that the kids are guaranteed to love, Cyprus offers the Pafos Zoo, Waterworld Ayia Napa, and the Municipal Zoo.

kefalonia with kids Alaties beach, greece

Where Is Hot In October: Greek Islands

There are so many Greek islands to choose from which are all under a four-hour flight from the UK, and no matter which one you pick, you’ll be enjoying 22-degree weather, breathtaking beaches, and delicious Greek food. 

Best Areas To Stay In Greece

Of all the Greek islands, Corfu, Kefalonia, Crete, and Zante are some of the best choices for an October getaway with kids, as they all have kid-friendly beaches, resorts aimed at families, and plenty of attractions to keep the little ones entertained. 

Best Beaches In Greece

Greece has some of the prettiest beaches with excellent water conditions, which is why the islands have been popular holiday destinations for decades. On the island of Corfu, you have Nissaki Beach, Paleokastritsa Beach, and Glyfada Beach.

In Kefalonia, there is Emplisi Beach, Myrtos Beach, and Xi Beach. Dotted around Crete, you’ll find Elafonissi Beach, Vai Beach, and Aghia Pelagia Beach. And in Zante, there is Banana Beach, Agios Nikolaos Beach, and Laganas Beach. 

Best Hotels In Greece for Families

When travelling with kids, I know how important it is to have a hotel with all the amenities you could possibly need. Trust me, I’ve been there. Here are some of the best family-friendly hotels in Corfu, Kefalonia, Crete, and Zante.

Corfu

Kefalonia

Crete

Zante/Zakynthos

corfu town

Best Things To Do In Greece with kids

For families staying in Corfu, you won’t want to miss Aqualand, Corfu Aquarium, and a glass–bottom boat tour to see marine life in its natural habitat. You can also learn about the history of Corfu in the Casa Parlante Museum or Corfu Town, which just so happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In Kefalonia, you can boat through the caves of the Melassani Lake, see loggerhead turtles in the Argostoli Harbour, visit the animals in the Odysscus Zoo, or have a picnic in the Mount Ainos National Park. 

The island of Crete also has so much to offer families, with attractions like Dinosauria Park, Aquaworld Aquarium, Cretaquarium, and the Acqua Plus Water Park. There are even outdoor activities like hiking Samaria Gorge, exploring the Dikteon Cave, and paddling in Lake Kournas.

And for families choosing to visit Zante, the Keri Caves, the Zakynthos Sea Turtle Rescue, and the Caretta Fun Park Center are all fabulous attractions. You can even play a game of mini golf at the World Tour Mini Golf or Fantasy Mini Golf.

Capri from the sea, Italy, boats and coloured buildings
Capri, Italy

Where Is Hot In October: Italy with kids

Italy is another great European destination for some winter sun as in just 2.5 hours, you can expect up to 24-degree weather. 

Best Areas To Stay In Italy

The southern portion of Italy is far warmer in October than the northern areas, so I would recommend jetting down to Sardinia or Naples (and if you have time, a trip around the Almafi Coast for Positano and Capri.) Naples lies on the western coast of Italy, and Sardinia is its own island off the western coast. 

In Sardinia, Costa Rei, Pula, Stintino, and Orosei are some of the best family-friendly areas, and in Naples, families will particularly enjoy the area of Piazza del Plebiscito.

Best Beaches In Italy for families

Sardinia has some gorgeous beaches with beautiful crystal clear waters and stretches of soft white sand. Of all of the beaches in Sardinia, however, Cala Brandinchi, Spiaggia della Pelosa, Spiaggia Rena Bianca, and Porto Giunco Beach are some of the best. 

Families staying in Naples will want to check out Bagno Elena, Spiaggia della Gaiola, and La Rotonda Diaz, all of which are easily accessible and suitable for young children.

Best Hotels In Italy

Some of the top hotel recommendations in Sardinia and Naples include the following:

Sardinia

Naples

Best Things To Do In Italy

There are a few great kid-friendly attractions in Sardinia, including the Sardinia Aquarium, the Sardinia Mini Park, and numerous caves and archaeological sites, however, with how gorgeous Sardinia’s beaches are, you’re likely not going to want to leave them. 

In Naples, you can stroll around the city, visit the Piazza del Plebiscito, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the city’s various cathedrals, or you can check out Naples Zoo, gaze at the beauty that is Mount Vesuvius, and since you’re in the land of pizza, attend a pizza making class. 

Marrakesh mosaics
Image courtesy of Jenny from Travelynn Family

Morocco

Marakkesh in Morocco is a different type of winter-sun getaway, and if you don’t particularly like sitting on the beach, then it could just be the perfect spot for you, with plenty of things to do with kids.

It takes roughly 3.5 hours to fly to Morocco, and throughout the month of October, Marrakesh has highs of 28 degrees, so it really is toasty! Another beautiful destination is Eassouria – a beautiful place to explore with you family, with stunning beaches, coastal views and local markets.

Best Areas To Stay In Marrakesh

Medina is rated as one of the best areas for families to stay in when visiting Marrakesh, as there are plenty of things to see and do, and it takes only 15 minutes to get there from the airport. 

Best Hotels In Marrakesh

As Marrakesh is landlocked, you’ll probably want a swimming pool at your hotel to keep the little ones entertained when you aren’t out exploring. Here are some of the best hotels in Marrakesh for families:

water park Marrackech and
Image courtesy of Jenny from Travelynn Family

Best Things To Do In Marrakesh

If you know anything about Marrakesh, and Morroco in general, then you’ll know that the city is full of markets and stunning architecture that you could honestly spend your entire holiday exploring. When it comes to activities that the kids will find enjoying, however, then you can visit Paloozaland, a dinosaur-inspired theme park, and the Oasiria Water Park. 

Portugal algrave

Where Is Hot In October: Portugal

Next up is Portugal, which is just a 2.5-hour flight from the UK and has average daily temperatures of 24 degrees. 

Best Areas To Stay In Portugal

One of the most popular places to stay in Portugal is the Algarve which is in Portugal’s southern region. Lagos, Tavira, and Carvoerio are all fantastic options for families with young children, as they’re all close to the beach and have plenty of bars, restaurants, and amenities. 

Algarve

Best Beaches In Portugal

You’ll want to have your camera at the ready when visiting the beaches in the Algarve, as they truly are beautiful with golden sand, clear, calm waters, and stunning backdrops. Of all the beaches, Praia da Marinha, Praia Dona Ana, Praia da Falesia, and Praia da Rocha are definitely ones worth visiting. 

Best Hotels In Portugal

One of the best things about the Algarve is there are so many family-friendly hotel options for you to choose from. Some of my favourites include: 

Best Things To Do In Portugal

The Algarve has attractions that the entire family will love, from the Lagos Zoo and Zoomarine Park to Krazyworld and mini golf courses. When you aren’t relaxing on the beach, you’ll definitely be kept busy. 

I also highly recommend heading out on a boat trip to explore some south Italian hidden caves or paying a visit to the Castle of Silves to learn more about the country’s history. 

lanzarote hotel pool
Aequora Lanzarote – copyright Aequora Hotel

Where Is Hot In October: Spain

Spain is a popular holiday destination for most brits no matter what month of the year, and in October, you’ll be happy to know that in just 2.5 hours, you can be basking in beautiful 25-degree weather.

Best Areas To Stay In Spain

The Canary Islands always have been and always will be one of the top destinations in Spain, and although flight times are slightly longer than in other areas, in my opinion, they’re totally worth it.

Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote are four of the most family-friendly islands in the Canary Islands, however, all eight islands would be ideal winter-sun destinations. 

Best Beaches In Spain

All four of the islands I mentioned previously, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote, have excellent beaches for little ones to run around on, which is partly the reason why so many families favour the Canaries. 

On Tenerife, you can enjoy Playa Las Teresitas, Playa del Duque, and La Tejita Beach. In Gran Canaria there is Puerto Rico Beach, Playa del Ingles, and Anfi del Mar. 

Fuerteventura has Cofete Beach, Popcorn Beach, and Grandes Playas de Corralejo. And in Lanzarote, you can relax on Playa Flamingo, Playa de Papagayo, and Playa del Reducto.

Best Hotels In Spain

If you’re thinking about booking an October getaway to one of the Canary Islands, here are some of the best hotels in the area: 

Tenerife

Gran Canaria

Fuerteventura

Lanzarote

Best Things To Do In Spain

When you need a break from the beach or the pool, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote have an abundance of activities for your family to enjoy.

Families holidaying in Tenerife can check out the Tenerife Zoo Monkey Park, the Jungle Park, Loro Parque, and Mount Teide. In Gran Canaria, there is the Sioux City Park, the Cocodrilo Park, the Palmitos Park, and Holiday World Maspalomas. 

Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura and Acua Water Park are two popular attractions in Fuerteventura, but you can also visit an old volcano, Volcano Calderón Hondo or Lobos Island.

And finally, in Lanzarote, families can explore the Piracy Museum, the lava caves of Jameos del Agua, and the Timanfaya National Park.

Where Is Hot In October: Tunisia

Tunisia is a country in north Africa, and it may not have even been on your radar, but with highs of 28 degrees in October and just a three hour plane ride from your UK, it makes a great destination for families in need of some sun. 

Best Areas To Stay In Tunisia

Sousse in Tunisia is a great are for families as it is right on the coast and has plenty of activities that both parents and children will enjoy. 

Best Beaches In Tunisia

Boujaffar Beach, Las Vegas Beach, and Happy Beach are three of the most popular beaches in the city of Sousse, all of which are close to restaurants, bars, and other attractions. 

Best Hotels In Tunisia

When I go on holiday with my kids, I always try to find accommodation with a pool as not only is it refreshing after a long day in the sun, but it also drains the kids of their energy, which is a win-win in my books. Here are some top family-friendly hotels with pools in Tunisia: 

Best Things To Do In Tunisia

When holidaying in Tunisia, there are so many activities for the little ones, including a trip on a pirate ship, the Medina markets, the 3D trickery museum, the Crocodile Park, and the Friguia Park.

Where Is Hot In October: Turkey

Turkey is a four-hour flight from the UK, and in October, the country sees highs of up to 30 degrees, making it one of the hottest short-haul destinations you can travel to.

Best Areas To Stay In Turkey

For families visiting Turkey, two of the best areas are down the country’s southwest coast and they are Antalya and Fethiye.

Best Beaches In Turkey

With highs of 30 degrees, you’re going to want to cool down in the ocean, and in Antalya, Cleopatra Beach, Lara Beach, and Kaputas Beach are some of the best choices, whereas in Fethiye, Ölüdeniz Beach, Kumbrunu Beach, and Belcekız Beach should not be missed. 

Best Hotels In Turkey

Some of the best family-friendly hotels in both Antalya and Fethiye are as follows:

Antalya

Fethiye

Best Things To Do In Turkey

Aside from relaxing on the beach or chilling by the pool, you can explore ruins, Hadrian’s Gate, springs, and waterfalls in Antalya, or hike through gorges, check out more ruins, and climb tombs in Fethiye.

Where Is Hot In October: FAQs

Is Greece Hot In October?

Greece is still hot throughout the month of October, with temperatures sitting in the mid-20s.

Is Majorca Hot In October?

Yes, Majorca is still hot in October, as average daily temperatures around between 22 and 24 degrees. 

Is Croatia Hot In October?

Croatia is warm in October, and you can expect highs of 21 degrees. You will still need to bring a jacket, however, as at night time temperatures drop to around 14 degrees. 

Is Italy Hot In October?

Average temperatures in Italy in October are around 23 degrees, however, the further south you go, the warmer the temperatures will be. 

Where Is Hot/Warm In Europe In October?

There are a few different places in Europe that are warm in October, with Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and Turkey being the most popular for a winter getaway.

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