October is an ideal time for a getaway, offering the same off-peak benefits as September—cheaper prices and fewer crowds—without the summer rush. Metro has rounded up three destinations that remain relatively undiscovered.
Menorca: A Quieter Balearic Escape
While Mallorca and Ibiza face overtourism and price hikes, Menorca offers a more tranquil alternative. The island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, attracts just 1.77 million visitors annually—far fewer than Mallorca's 13.5 million and Ibiza's 3.7 million. It boasts over 100 beaches, whitewashed villages, and the world's largest concentration of prehistoric Talayotic monuments.
October temperatures average 23°C, ideal for beach days and evening strolls. Flights from London Stansted to Mahon start at £15 with Ryanair, and four-star hotels like Prinsotel La Caleta offer rooms from £72.
Albania: Charm Without the Crowds
Albania's summer visitor numbers have exceeded 10 million annually, surpassing its population. In October, however, you can explore the southern Riviera—dubbed the 'Maldives of the Mediterranean'—without the crowds. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed city of Berat, known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows,' and the capital Tirana with its café culture and communist-era bunkers.
Expect mild highs of 21°C and cooler nights. Ryanair flies from London Stansted to Tirana for around £20, with beachfront hotels like King Hotel Ksmil from £46 per night.
Naples: A Culinary Capital
Naples, crowned the world's best city for food in 2024, is a must-visit for food lovers. It's the birthplace of pizza, with Neapolitan pizza-making recognized as UNESCO cultural heritage. Must-try spots include Pizzeria Brandi and Pizzaioli Veraci, where a Margherita costs around €7 (£6).
Beyond food, explore the Spanish Quarter, once under mob rule, and visit Pompeii, a 40-minute train ride away, with entry at €18 (£15). October temperatures are a pleasant 23°C. Flights from London Luton with Ryanair start at £20, and four-star hotels like Caravaggio Hotel are available from £73.
