Where to Go in October Half-Term

Curated Escapes for Every Kind of Traveller

October half-term is one of the travel calendar’s best-kept secrets. Summer crowds have faded, temperatures are still kind and it’s a great moment to pause and reconnect before winter sets in.

Let us show you what our kind of luxury looks like this October.

Atlantis the Palm, Dubai

1. For Families Who Need Sun & Space

Family-Friendly, Grown-Up Approved Escapes

Half-term isn’t just for the kids - it’s a precious opportunity for families to unwind together, without compromising on style or comfort.

Algarve, Portugal
A classic for good reason. With golden beaches, cliffside villas and sunny skies averaging 23°C in October, the Algarve offers low-key luxury and high convenience. Private villas with pools and chef service make life easy - and yes, the pastel de nata tastes better when eaten barefoot.

Dubai, UAE
Where thrilling waterparks, desert dune adventures and ultra-luxe hotels coexist in harmony. October is the sweet spot weatherwise - warm, but not scorching. We recommend resorts with kids’ clubs that feel more like mini adventure academies, while adults can enjoy sunset rooftop dining or indulgent hammam rituals.

Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

2. For Couples Craving Culture & Calm

Boutique Treasures for Two

When it comes to romantic getaways, October offers a quieter, more soulful rhythm - ideal for slow mornings, local wines and unhurried exploration.

Puglia, Italy
A region made for long lunches under pergolas and evening strolls through whitewashed towns. Stay in a restored masseria (farmhouse) with vineyard views and private pools. The summer rush is over, but the sun lingers.

Seville, Spain

Think sultry flamenco evenings, secret courtyards, and Moorish architecture glowing in the afternoon light. Boutique hotels housed in former palaces add charm, while tapas hopping offers a delicious taste of local life.

Insider tip: Ask us about the little-known rooftop bar overlooking the Cathedral - perfect for golden hour drinks for two.

Angsana Velavaru, The Maldives

3. For Those Who Want Serious Unwind Time

Switch-Off Spots Worth Travelling For

If October half-term is your annual moment to hit pause, these serene destinations deliver quiet indulgence and true escape.

The Maldives
White-sand islands, overwater villas and private spa rituals - the Maldives do relaxation like nowhere else. With easier direct flights and new family-friendly resorts, it’s more accessible than ever (without losing that feeling of total seclusion).

Madeira, Portugal
Understated, elegant, and lush with natural beauty. Perfect for gentle hikes, spa retreats and boutique stays with panoramic Atlantic views. It’s Europe, reimagined for tranquillity seekers.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve, South Africa

4. For the Adventure-Inclined (with Style)

Your Kind of Luxury, With a Wild Side

For families or couples who like their half-term with a dose of drama (the good kind!), these destinations deliver the thrill without sacrificing comfort.

South Africa
October is a fantastic time to visit - combine a Big Five safari with whale watching off the Cape, or vineyard tours in Stellenbosch. We’ll pair luxury lodges with hand-picked experiences, whether it’s sunrise game drives or private chef dinners in the bush.

Iceland
Northern Lights? Check. Glacier hikes? Absolutely. Boutique hotels with geothermal spas? Yup. Iceland is perfect for active families or couples looking for something wildly different.

Bahia del Duque, Tenerife

5. A Few More Favourites for October Half-Term

Still browsing? Here are a few more places we love at this time of year:

• Cyprus: 26°C sunshine, easy beach days, excellent hotels and ancient ruins to explore.

• Greek Islands: Late-season warmth, fewer crowds and charming coastal villas.

• Florida: Theme parks and Gulf Coast beaches wrapped in year-round sunshine. A dream for active families.

• Canary Islands: Short-haul ease with long-haul warmth. Bahia del Duque in Tenerife is the hotel we keep going back to.

• Thailand: West coast season starts - think Krabi, Phuket, and exclusive beach stays surrounded by jungle.

Prefer something off the beaten path? Our little black book is full of treasures - just ask.

Where to Next?

Whether you're craving downtime, sunshine or something a little more extraordinary, October half-term is a great time to get away. At Reigate Luxury Travel, every trip is tailored around you, from villa stays with toddler-ready pools to grown-up getaways where every detail is beautifully taken care of.

Thinking about a trip like this? Let’s create something together.
Prefer it tailor-made? We’ll design it around you.

FAQs: October Half-Term Travel

Where is hot in October for a family-friendly luxury holiday?
Destinations like the Algarve, Dubai, and Cyprus offer sunshine, short flights, and plenty of space to relax in style.

What are the best luxury European destinations for couples in October half-term?
Puglia and Seville offer quieter streets, warm weather, and beautifully romantic settings, ideal for an autumn escape for two.

Is it a good time to travel to the Maldives in October?
Yes! October sees lower humidity and fewer crowds, making it a perfect time for a luxury escape in the Maldives. Contact us for the low-down on the best resorts.