Top Choices for October and November Travel

Istanbul serves as the economic and cultural center of Turkey. The city sits on the Bosphorus, linking Europe and Asia. October is one of the better times to arrive. The summer humidity dissipates and the temperature becomes suitable for long walks through the old city. Expect significant traffic congestion in most areas. It is a dense megacity with over 15 million residents.

Wadi Rum is a massive desert valley in southern Jordan. It features distinctive sandstone and granite rock formations. October and November offer cooler days perfect for hiking or guided tours. The nights begin to turn cold, so pack layers for the evening. It is located about 60 kilometers from the city of Aqaba. You will need a vehicle to reach the remote protected area.

Petra is an archaeological site famous for rock-cut architecture. It was the capital of the Nabataean people. Visiting in October or November avoids the intense desert heat of the summer months. You can walk the trails through the canyon comfortably. This is a large site that requires extensive walking on uneven ground. Allow at least a full day to see the main structures.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a tidal island located off the coast of Normandy. It is small, covering only 7 hectares of land. October remains a good time to visit before the winter storms arrive. The island is less crowded than during the summer peak. Accessibility depends on the tide, though it is now connected to the mainland. The small local population means limited dining options late at night.

The Colosseum is the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built. It is located in the center of Rome near the Roman Forum. Visiting in October means milder temperatures for standing in queues and walking between ruins. The sun is less harsh than in July or August. Lines for entry can be very long. Booking tickets in advance is necessary to avoid wasting hours waiting in line.

Tromsø is a city located in Northern Norway. It serves as a major cultural center for the region. October and November are the start of the dark season, making this a prime time to look for the northern lights. The temperature is cool to cold. This is not a destination for warm weather activities. Be prepared for short daylight hours and potential snow.

Rome is the most populated city in Italy. It is packed with historic sites and museums. October brings pleasant daytime temperatures, making it easier to walk through the city. The summer crowds begin to thin out. Expect high costs for accommodation and dining in the center of the city. Popular sites remain busy even in the off-season.

The Millau Viaduct is a cable-stayed bridge in Southern France. It crosses the gorge valley of the Tarn. October provides clear views of the valley. It is a good time to drive the route before winter fog settles in the gorge. This is primarily a transport route. There is not much to do at the bridge other than observe the engineering.

The Eiffel Tower is located on the Champ de Mars in Paris. It was built for the 1889 World's Fair. October offers a break from the peak summer tourist wave. You may find shorter wait times for the elevators. The tower is an outdoor structure exposed to the wind. Expect chilly conditions if you climb to the top during the autumn months.

The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao is an art museum in northern Spain. It sits along the Nervion River. October is a fine time to visit the museum and the surrounding city. The weather is generally mild for coastal Spain. It is a specialized destination for art lovers. If you do not have an interest in modern art, the building itself may be the only draw.