Greece
October Holidays

Greece is well-renowned as a favourite summer holiday destination, so travelling here in October might seem like a less obvious option. While temperatures are starting to cool, the mercury remains in the high twenties and with the crowds of summer gone, we think that Greece October holidays are up there with the very best. You’ll be comfortable spending your days lounging on the sand and wandering the white-washed villages in t-shirts and shorts, although make sure to pack some warmer clothing for the evenings, so you can enjoy an al fresco dinner as the terracotta sun slips beneath the horizon.

A holiday to Greece might typically evoke images of beach relaxation, and while this certainly has its place in your itinerary, Greece October holidays are also perfect for discovering the country’s rich history. In the small town of Ioannina in central Greece, you’ll find vestiges of the Ottoman Empire in the 17th century mosques and fortified Old Town. Meteora’s dramatic and rugged rock formations are like something out of a fairy-tale, and the intricate frescoes which adorn the inside of the cliffside monasteries add to the sense of magic. Follow in the footsteps of ancient monks by hiking the Doupiani rock, through the hidden monasteries of Ypapanti and the ruins of Saint Dimitrios, for breath-taking views of the impressive pinnacles.

Travelling in October will give you the chance to explore Crete’s extraordinary cultural heritage without the crowds. The largest of the Greek islands, this ancient idyll is a combination of sun-soaked beaches, hidden villages and historical treasures. Heraklion, Rethymno and Chania are an enticing trio, located on the Cretan coast. With a private guide on hand, you can tour the elegant Knossos Minoan Palace, rumoured to be where King Minos built the maze which trapped the Minotaur. In Rethymno, you’ll find the historic Venetian harbour, lined with restaurants serving excellent examples of Cretan cuisine. Completing the trifecta, Chania is a lively city with an equally vivid history; explore alongside a local sociologist, who will teach you about the region’s fascinating mythology.