Malta, a tiny European island nation around three hours from the UK, offers 25C temperatures in October, making it a prime destination for those seeking winter sun. The UK saw a record-breaking summer of heat and sunshine in 2026, and while some found it uncomfortable, many are already longing for those warm, sunny days. For the latter, several European spots offer much higher temperatures than the UK experiences in October.
Valletta tops European capitals for October warmth
Malta is one of Europe's smallest countries but has grown popular with tourists over the past couple of decades. Located in the Mediterranean between Italy and Tunisia, it is known for its beaches, food, history, and architecture. Its capital, Valletta, records the highest average temperatures in Europe in October, according to the travel platform Omio, which analyses weather data for all European capitals.
The city sees temperatures of around 25C in October, with Omio ranking it first among European capitals for warmest October weather. Beyond the climate, Valletta boasts attractions including St John's Co-Cathedral, the Lascaris War Rooms, and the Upper Barakka Gardens.
Beaches, islands, and historic Mdina
Malta also offers crystal-clear waters and lovely beaches, with top-rated coastal spots including Mellieha Beach, Blue Lagoon, St Peter's Pool, Ramla Bay, Golden Bay, and Ghar Lapsi. Across its three inhabited islands, visitors can find stunning beach clubs and luxury hotels with outdoor pools. Tourists are encouraged not to limit themselves to Valletta when visiting Malta.
According to TripAdvisor, the top-rated attraction in Malta is the old city of Mdina. This fortified city and UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Western Region of Malta served as the country's capital during the medieval period and features a historic cathedral, streets, and city gates. One visitor review reads: "A Bus trip from Valletta and this amazing place awaits. Literally walking through Game of Thrones. But more importantly, so much history, plenty of information boards and even some great cafes and shops in the silent city."
Getting there and around
Due to Malta's small size, tourists can easily get around, with specially curated excursions taking groups across the islands. Flights from the UK take around three hours, with routes operated by easyJet, Jet2, British Airways, and Ryanair.
According to Omio, the European capitals with the warmest October temperatures last year were Valletta, Malta; Lisbon, Portugal and Rome, Italy; Madrid, Spain; Paris, France; Budapest, Hungary; Ljubljana, Slovenia; Zagreb, Croatia; Bratislava, Slovakia; Brussels, Belgium; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Dublin, Ireland; Cardiff, Wales; Vienna, Austria; Luxembourg City, Luxembourg; Berlin, Germany; Prague, Czechia; Edinburgh, Scotland; Belfast, Northern Ireland; Warsaw, Poland; Copenhagen, Denmark; Riga, Latvia; Vilnius, Lithuania; Oslo, Norway; Stockholm, Sweden; and Tallinn, Estonia.
