If your body is calling out for a little vitamin D come October, you’re in luck. There are plenty of destinations that are still warm and sunny at this time of year. Plus, you can make use of the half-term break too. Let’s go exploring in the October sunshine.

Break away from the UK with a trip in October. With pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds and a little sunshine it’s time to make the most of shoulder season this year. From the ancient ruins of Turkey and cultural delights of Brazil to the beaches of Fiji and theme parks of the USA, discover our top 10 hot October holiday destinations. Here’s where’s warm in October.

With temperatures around 15°C, Zurich in October offers a delightful mix of crisp autumn air and stunning natural beauty. Whether you want to go hiking or sightseeing, October is the ideal time to explore Switzerland’s great outdoors. Spend your days strolling around Lake Zurich, framed by golden autumn leaves. Or set out on an adventure for the day and climb Uetliberg Mountain for panoramic views of the city and surrounding Alps. Zurich’s Kunsthaus art gallery – showcasing masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and Giacometti – is always a must, and be sure to visit the Jucker Farm’s annual pumpkin exhibition in nearby Seegraben too. After a day of exploring, unwind in one of Zurich’s cosy cafés with a cup of artisan coffee.

Look out for:

• The Kunsthaus art gallery

• Lake Zurich’s autumnal beauty

• The Jucker Farm pumpkin exhibition, Seegraben

Amman’s rich history and mild October weather (around 26°C) make it a fantastic destination for an autumn escape. A trip here is all about discovering the area’s many incredible ancient landmarks including the Roman Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace complex at the Citadel. After all that exploring, take some time to sip sweet mint tea on Rainbow Street and soak up the local atmosphere. A visit to Jordan wouldn’t be complete without a day trip to Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just three hours away. It’s well worth the early rise to see the intricately carved buildings that were cut straight into the rock of the valley walls as long ago as the 5th century BCE. For nature lovers, Wadi Rum’s dramatic red desert landscapes begin to turn green after the first rains, making it a great time for hiking or camel trekking.

Look out for:

• Citadel and Roman Temple of Hercules

• An unforgettable day trip to Petra

• The dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum

Dreaming of a paradise beach holiday in October? Put Fiji right at the top of your October bucket list. With average temperatures of 30°C, it’s the perfect place to soak up the sun in preparation for winter in the UK. Relax on the white sands of Wailoaloa Beach, just a short drive from Nadi, or take a boat trip to one of Fiji’s many idyllic islands. For something a little different, head inland to the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, home to over 2,000 orchid species and serene walking trails. Or treat yourself to a unique spa experience at the Tifajek Mud Pool and Hotspring.

Look out for:

• The Garden of the Sleeping Giant

• Relaxing on beautiful Wailoaloa Beach

• The Tifajek Mud Pool and Hotspring

Rome in October offers milder weather than the summer, making it the ideal time to feast on the history, culture and cuisine found around every corner in the city. With average temperatures of 22°C, you’ll be super comfortable exploring the likes of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican City. Don’t forget to stretch your legs with a walk up the iconic Spanish Steps, a monumental stairway offering stunning views of the city from the Trinità dei Monti church. There’s beauty to be found wherever you turn in Rome, so aimlessly walking around the city and admiring the epic architecture is a must – possibly with a gelato in hand. And if you’re a little tired from all that walking, hire an electric scooter to whizz around the city like a local. Stroll through picturesque piazzas, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and savour authentic Italian cuisine at idyllic trattorias. Wine lovers can enjoy vineyard tours and tastings in the nearby Lazio countryside too.

Look out for:

• The historic Colosseum and Roman Forum

• The famous Trevi Fountain

• Local vineyard tours in the countryside

Dubai combines year-round sunshine with world-class attractions, making it a top choice for October holidays. With average temperatures of 29°C, it’s warm enough to enjoy the city’s pristine beaches while also being suitable for fun outdoor activities. It’s a much better time to visit than during the stifling summer. No trip to Dubai would be complete without a trip to the viewing deck from the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the city, desert, and ocean. And you need to set aside some time to shop in the luxurious Dubai Mall too. And don’t forget to venture into the desert for a thrilling dune safari. If you’re a family travelling with the kids in tow, you’re guaranteed to love the exceptional water parks, and you may be lucky enough to catch food festivals, concerts, or sporting events during your stay. Take a boat trip around Dubai Marina to see the famous skyscrapers from a different perspective.

Look out for:

• The impressive Burj Khalifa

• Water sports at Jumeirah Beach

• Dune bashing, camel rides, and Bedouin-style dinners

The Canary Islands are a popular destination for Brits seeking winter sun, and Lanzarote stands out for its unique volcanic scenery and warm October weather. Soak up the sun and relax on golden beaches, like Playa Blanca. Or dive into the crystal-clear waters of Papagayo Beach. With temperatures of around 26°C, beach activities are definitely on the agenda in October in Lanzarote. Away from the beach, Timanfaya National Park offers otherworldly landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions. And, for a unique experience, dine at El Diablo restaurant where food is cooked using geothermal heat. Rancho Texas is ideal to visit with kids during October half-term. There are fewer crowds in October than at other times of year, making this a great time to experience all Lanzarote has to offer.

Look out for:

• Volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park

• Crystal-clear waters of Papagayo Beach

• The charming village of Teguise

Kos is a charming Greek island that boasts mild October weather with temperatures of 23°C, making it perfect for couples and solo travellers seeking a relaxing escape away from the crowds. Wander through the cobbled streets of Kos Town picking up souvenirs, explore ancient ruins, try local delicacies, and bask in the sun on sandy beaches. October is grape harvest season in Greece, so take the opportunity to sample local wines and fresh produce at traditional tavernas. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a ferry to nearby islands, such as naturally beautiful Kalymnos or peaceful Nisyros, for a day of scenic exploring.

Look out for:

• The ancient ruins of the Asklepion

• Postcard-perfect Tigaki Beach

• Wine sampling at local tavernas

Antalya combines warm weather, stunning beaches, and fascinating history for the ideal October break. With average temperatures of 27°C in October, it’s an excellent time to relax on the golden sands of Lara Beach or play some volleyball and try your hand at water sports on Konyaaltı Beach. Jet-skiing, standup paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking are all on offer. If you’ve got a taste for history, don’t miss the ancient ruins of Perge and Aspendos, while the charming old town of Kaleiçi promises cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era architecture. Boat trips along the dramatic coastline are a must when you’re in this part of the world. And if you fancy getting a little active, pack your hiking boots and trek part of the way along the famous Lycian Way trail.

Look out for:

• The charming old town of Kaleiçi

• The well-preserved ancient theatre of Aspendos

• Relaxing and sunbathing on Lara Beach

Rollercoasters. Water parks. And outdoor adventures. It could only be Orlando. The average temperatures in Orlando in October peak at around 29°C, meaning you’ll be wearing short sleeves to enjoy the thrills of the famous theme parks but it won’t be too sticky like in summer. There’ll be fewer crowds too. So take your pick of Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, to make the most of the fun available in Orlando. For a change of pace, explore Orlando’s vibrant dining scene, visit the Kennedy Space Center, or relax at one of the area’s many lakes and nature reserves. Halloween festivities are in full swing throughout October, with spooky (and not so spooky) theme park events adding extra fun for children of all ages. We love Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World.

Look out for:

• Halloween events at Orlando’s theme parks

• The informative Kennedy Space Center

• Paddle boating at Lake Eola Park

Brazil’s iconic Rio de Janeiro offers a lively mix of beautiful beaches, rich culture, and warm October weather. With average temperatures of 27°C, take time out from the city’s activities and festivities to soak up the sun on Copacabana or Ipanema Beach. These are once-in-a-lifetime kind of spots and definitely two of the best beaches to visit in October, anywhere in the world. Away from the beach, take a trip to the city’s world-famous sites including Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views of the city. October is a great time to experience Rio’s samba culture, with live music and dance performances bringing the city to life. For nature lovers, a hike through Tijuca National Park provides a refreshing escape from the urban buzz.

Look out for:

• The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue

• Sunbathing on Copacabana and Ipanema beaches

• Hiking through Tijuca National Park

From beautiful beaches to vibrant cities, there are loads of great October holiday destinations to choose from. Pick your favourite, pack your bag, and get ready for an autumn escape boasting sun, scenery, and adventures.