Halloween from Bran Castle, among the most spectacular European autumn destinations: Oktoberfest, France wines and Malta Sun

If you want to live a magical autumn in Europe, with spectacular landscapes, authentic festivals and gentle season end, October is the ideal month for a getaway. In the Euronews top of the most attractive European destinations for this period, Romania stands out through the famous Halloween from Bran Castle, a unique experience, which combines the mystery and legends with the holiday atmosphere.

On the same list are the autumn sun of Malta and Cyprus, the traditional Oktoberfest in Germany, the Paris wine festival, but also the fairy -tale landscapes in Slovenia and Austria, perfect for routine and misty mornings.

October is considered “Middle season” In many regions of Europe: the tourist attractions that are overwhelmed by visitors become much quieter, and the prices are more accessible. It is the period when you can discover authentic local traditions, enjoy unique cultural events and walk through golden cities and landscapes without the crowded characteristic of the peak months.

Whether you want to catch the last rays of the year, to explore the vineyards and to disguise the French wines, to venture on mountain trails among the mornings and forests in rust, or to be enchanted by the Dracula Halloween from the Bran Castle, the guide below shows you the most European, Each place combines the charm of the season, culture and memorable experiences, turning every journey into an unforgettable memory.

Malta and Cyprus in October: autumn sun and tourists activities

If you are not yet ready to leave the summer behind, the direction is simple: southern Europe. In Malta, temperatures also reach October 25 ° C, only good to enjoy the last sunny days. You can explore the baroque buildings in the capital Valletta – UNESCO site – or visit St. John’s Cathedral without the season. A stop in the UPPER BARRAKKA gardens offers you spectacular panoramas on the port.

Don’t miss the mdina, “The silent city”with delightful medieval streets and a special atmosphere. If you arrive on the first Saturday in October, you have the chance to live Notte Bianca, the biggest cultural event of Malta, when the palaces and museums open their gates until late, hosting art shows and exhibitions.

For nature lovers, Dingli cliffs are perfect for hiking, and a catamaran and blue lagoon trip offers snorkeling and swimming opportunities. The season of bird migration also begins in October, so Birdwatching fans can see vultures and hawks in flight.

Equally friendly to tourists during this period is Cyprus, where average temperatures exceed 20 ° C, and the sea remains warm, around 24 ° C – ideal for swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding or windsurf.

In Paphos and Ayia Napa the water parks are open until the end of October, and those who are passionate about diving can explore impressive wrecks. If you prefer history, the ancient ruins of Kourion or the tombs of the kings are unrelated objectives, and the hiking in the Toroodos mountains reveal beautiful mountain landscapes.

Wine lovers can discover the wine traditions at the Limassol Wine Festival (September 27 – October 5), and filmmakers can enjoy the International Short films, organized in the same city between 11 and 17 October. In addition, on October 1the whole island celebrates Independence Day, with local events and festivities.

Oktoberfest Germany 2025: beer, festival and Bavarian tradition

Beer enthusiasts can catch the last days of Oktoberfest in Munich and Berlin, this year takes place between September 20 and October 5.

In Munich, the festival retains its traditional charm: spectacular parades, huge beer tents such “Retro” of Oktoberfest, arranged in the southern part of Theresienwiese. Here is a horse racing, historical attractions, Bavarian music with bands and fairs as in the old days. Obviously, the Bavarian culinary delights are not missing: roast chickens (Hendl), Bratwurst sausages, apple and famous pork (Schweinshaxe).

For those who prefer a more relaxed version, Oktoberfest in Berlin offers the same holiday atmosphere, but in a smaller and less crowded frame. Visitors can enjoy street dishes such as currywurst, live music and fun in the attraction park.

Halloween at Bran Castle: Dracula experience in Transylvania

For a truly mysterious experience in October, nothing compares to Halloween at Bran Castle, in the heart of Transylvania, Euronews journalists say. Although the connections between the castle and the famous Dracula Count created by Bram Stoker are rather symbolic, the impressive gothic atmosphere makes this place an unforgettable destination.

During the Halloween period, the castle welcomes its visitors with nightmare themed tours, which reveal lightened corridors, narrow stairs and hidden rooms. The guides and locals give life to the legend through stories and scary myths. In addition, the castle yard hosts exclusive parties, where guests enjoy spectacular music and decorations.

It is well known that the holiday does not always take place on October 31, but usually Saturday of Halloween week.

Montmartre, Paris Wine Festival: Tastings and Parade in October

For wine lovers, the Wine Festival in Montmartre, also known as the grape harvest festival, is a mandatory experience.

The event is a local wine holiday, in the heart of the historical district Montmartre in Paris, and includes a large parade on the narrow streets, with dance, music and elaborate costumes, but also wine tastings offered by local producers.

Visitors can enjoy concerts, street shows and taste route, a large outdoor fair where cheeses, sausages, French wines and other regional products are sold. Tourists can also participate in guided tours of Montmartre Cloz vineyards or wine auctions.

This year, the festival takes place between 8 and 12 Octoberhaving as theme “Arondition 18, eternal young.”

Lake Bled and Hallstatt: Autumn landscapes and fairy tales in Europe

For spectacular autumn colors, cool weather and views as if out of a fairy tale, visit Lake Bled, Slovenia, in October.

Being far fewer tourists during this period, visitors can enjoy a traditional Pletna boat ride to the island of Bled, where they can explore the medieval castle on the rock or visit the small church on the island.

Nature lovers can climb routes like Ojstrica, for spectacular panoramas on autumn colors, or they can take relaxing walks or a bicycle tour around the lake. Triglav National Park, nearby, offers trails through thick forests and golden alpine meadows, and for those who are looking for less well -known places, Lake Bohinj is recommended.

Beyond the border, in Hallstatt, Austria, there is another perfect destination for colorful autumn. Wandering on the narrow streets of the old city, among picturesque and colorful houses, and stop at a flirty cafe to experience the famous Austrian coffee culture and warm up in the cool October air.

Hallstatt Skywalk offers incredible panoramic views on the lake and the city, and visitors can also enjoy relaxing rides on the lake, thus discovering the traditional life in the locality.

Plan your perfect autumn getaway in European unfortunate destinations

As the leaves gain golden shades and the end -of -season sun warms the days, Europe, especially in October, becomes the ideal destination for a memorable getaway. From Halloween story to Bran Castle in Romania, to wine and parades at the Paris Wine Festival, traditional parties at Oktoberfest in Germany, the warm sun of Malta and Cyprus or the fairy tales in Slovenia and Austria, these autumn destinations in Europe combine the charm of the cultural experience and adventures in nature.

Whether you are planning a holiday in Europe, vacation-circuit type, city break, hiking in rust forests, wine tours or local festivals, October offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy authentic experiences without the agglomeration of summer. Plan your journey to Europe now in October 2025 and discover the most beautiful and unique places that will turn every moment into an unforgettable memory.