It’s official: it’s now autumn in the UK. That means the heat from the sun is no longer as strong, the nights are drawing in, and the colder weather is on its way. If you’re not ready to put away your summer clothes just yet, book a holiday abroad to soak up some sun. Here are our top five destinations for an autumn holiday.
1. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Gran Canaria, which is only 90 miles from the coast of Africa, is one of eight Canary Islands. If you’re looking for warm weather all year round, this is the place to go.
In the Vegueta neighbourhood of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria in the north, you can visit the Cathedral, the historic square of Santa Ana, the House of Columbus where Christopher Columbus stayed, the Canary Island Museum, and the Atlantic Centre of Modern Art. Nearby, Calle Triana is great for shopping, and some of the best restaurants on the island are in Santa Catalina.
2. Almeria, Spain
Popular with sun worshippers, Almeria in southeast Spain is warm all year round. It’s one of the top five hottest cities in Spain and also the driest place in Europe. Boasting crystal clear waters, rugged landscapes, a desert golf course, and plenty of private beaches surrounded by mountains, you’ll love October in Almeria.
See the pink flamingos and other wild animals at the Las Salinas salt flats. Hike around the stunning Natural Park of Cabo de Gata, and explore the wild and beautiful natural beaches. Take a look at where Lawrence of Arabia, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and many other Hollywood blockbuster movies and westerns were filmed in the Tabernas desert. At Fort Bravo, you can ride in a horse and cart and relax by a themed swimming pool.
3. Limassol, Cyprus
Cyprus is too hot for many during the summer months, but the south coast is at its best in late spring and autumn. Popular destinations include the lively port towns of Limassol and Larnaca in the south. In Limassol, you can stroll along the promenade, sample the cuisine in the cafes and restaurants in the old port. If you like history and archaeological sites, you’ll love Limassol Castle, the Old Town architecture, the Curium Ancient Theatre, the Temple of Apollo Hylates, and the Kolossi Medieval Castle
If you venture off the beaten track and into the Limassol countryside, you’ll find traditional villages, vineyards and wineries, monasteries, and remote forests.
4. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world and the most visited of all the Greek islands. In the village of Oia, you’ll find enthralling sunsets, blue-domed churches, whitewashed houses, shops, restaurants, cafes, and art galleries. Take in the beautiful volcanic views, eat in a tavern serving fresh fish, and visit the small port located at the bottom of 300 steps. This is an island where romantic dreams come true.
If you want a break from exploring and prefer to indulge in some me-time, Santorini is the place to spoil yourself. Book a wine tasting or vineyard tour, stay in a luxurious hotel, or enjoy a spa treatment.
5. Porto, Portugal
Although temperatures drop in autumn, Portugal is still pleasant in October, with the average
temperature reaching 23oC. Porto in the north region is a World Heritage city, known for a heritage site that combines ancient churches and monuments. Nearby, the Douro Valley looks spectacular in October. You can explore it by road, on a river cruise, or by train. The train ride through the Douro River is one of the most picturesque rail routes in Portugal. You can also visit the Douro vineyards and wine estates to see where the port wine and Douro table wines are produced.
Visit Portugal to experience ancient cities, medieval villages, charming seaside towns, green natural parks and mountains, grand rivers, and a vast coastline. The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is known for its Atlantic beaches and golf resorts.
Wherever you choose to travel this October, don’t forget travel insurance to cover you in the event of cancellation or a medical emergency. At payingtoomuch, you can compare great value travel insurance, even if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
