Our top picks for family-friendly holidays in October half-term
As this year's October half-term comes to an end, many families across the UK are left longing for some winter sun. If you and the family didn’t manage to get away this year, just remember, it's never too early to start planning ahead for next!
Every year, many southern European destinations are still bursting with sunshine throughout the October holidays, making the school break the perfect time to escape the dreary nights, reminisce about the summer, and enjoy temperatures in the mid-20s.
There are an abundance of advantages to taking a family trip abroad during the autumn. October usually makes for a more pleasant holiday experience for families with young children, as the sometimes uncomfortable heat in European countries, which peaks in August, gradually decreases to a softer, comfortable temperature.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the most popular family-friendly destinations for the October break amongst Brits.
Tenerife
Tenerife could be the perfect destination for you if you want to take your family on a holiday for some early autumn sun. For British families, Tenerife is a convenient destination for the October half-term, being easily accessible through a direct 4-hour flight.
The island exhibits year-round sunshine due to its volcanic origin. When travelling to Tenerife in October, you can take advantage of daytime temperatures that are about 22°C on average, with highs of 25°C and lows of 19°C.
The town of Costa Adeje, which is located in the heart of southern Tenerife, is where many families visiting the island in the Autumn months stay. Although you will benefit from the guaranteed sunshine, the reputation of Costa Adeje goes far beyond just lounging by the pools and relaxing at the beach. It offers families who are travelling with children an abundance of opportunities for fun, thrill-seeking, exhilarating days out.
Throughout your stay in the town, you can explore a variety of fascinating attractions. There is sure to be an activity that suits your preferences, from shopping at Siam Mall to visiting the Loro Parque Zoo to spending time at Barranco del Infierno Nature Reserve.
However, the famous Siam Park is recognised as one of Costa Adeje's most popular family destinations. It is the most renowned amusement park in the Canary Islands, with Trip Advisor even ranking it as the number one water park worldwide. The park provides guests of every age a laid-back or energetic experience with its assortment of attractions. The water kingdom has plenty to offer everyone. It boasts a kids zone for the park's youngest visitors, an array of extreme water slides for its most adventurous guests, and a calm zone at Siam Beach for those looking to relax and soak up the sun!
Greece
A family holiday to Greece during the October half term would be an ideal opportunity to combat the winter blues because of the country’s assurance of clear skies, pleasant breezes, and exciting kids clubs that are still in full effect.
Throughout October, the average daytime weather in Greece is around 20°C, with highs of 24°C, so you can still take advantage of the blazing sunshine without having to deal with the busy crowds of the summer season.
In the autumn, families frequently travel to the island of Crete. The island is blessed with an all-year-round warm climate, a fascinating past, and breathtaking scenery, as well as impeccable hospitality from the local residents. It also has some of the best hikes in Europe and some of the most renowned museums in the world for those who like to explore.
During your time on the island, you and the family can visit the stunning, exotic Elafonissi Beach, cool down in the clear, shallow waters of the blue lagoon, check out their popular animal sanctuary, Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, or go on a historical tour of The Palace of Knossos.
Turkey
Turkey has always been a popular destination for the October holidays. Although the summer's blistering heat has subsided, the days are still lovely and the sea is still warm enough for swimming. It provides excellent value for families, especially outside of the busy season, and introduces your children to an abundance of cultures from the moment they arrive.
Generally, the weather is warm and pleasant in Turkey during October with a slight chance of rain depending on where you visit. The country's coastline regions are the most likely to experience scorching sunshine, with highs between 25°C and 28°C.
Antalya, a city on Turkey's south Mediterranean coast, is an attractive destination for family getaways in the autumn months. With a multitude of crystal-clear waters, entertaining boat trips, and white-sand beaches, you and your kids can escape the dreary UK weather and take in the stunning scenery the nation has to offer.
Whilst visiting the charming city, you can enjoy an exhilarating day of fun and entertainment at The Land of Legends Theme Park, take a boat tour to the Suluada Island or take advantage of a full-day adventure experience with Tornado Rafting, which offers a variety of activities including ziplining, rafting, a jeep tour & quad safari.
You can enjoy the breathtaking views the Old City has to offer on a guided sightseeing tour that includes a ride on the Tünektep Cable Car, explorations of the historic Kaleici, and a chance to bask in the awe of the Lower Düden Waterfalls. We can guarantee whilst visiting Antalya, you and your family won't ever feel bored!
Cyprus
Cyprus is yet another October half-term favourite amongst British families. After the sweltering summer heat, the sea is still warm enough for swimming, and with the cooler weather, it's easier to get out and discover everything the historical country has to offer. In addition, the hotel costs decrease in the autumn, making it an affordable destination for the family!
With highs of 28°C and lows of 18°C, you can still take advantage of the country’s stunning beaches and pools in October. The autumn is much more child-friendly, with a gentle breeze that makes for a refreshing change from the extremely warm summer season.
Being the home of an array of historic ancient towns and picturesque villages, Pathos is amongst the most popular destinations in Cyprus to visit in the autumn. The region is one of the most family-friendly on the island when it comes to resorts, entertainment, activities, and hotels, with a vast range of enjoyable excursions and entertainment for the kids to enjoy.
The Paphos Archaeological Park is a great place to take the family to teach the kids about Greece's rich history and let them explore the ruins of the ancient palaces that once stood there. You can also visit the quirky Paphos Old Town, which is great for sightseeing, shopping, and experiencing the authentic Greek charm of the local markets.
A main attraction that the kids will undoubtedly love is the acclaimed Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark. When they can spend the day enjoying high-speed water slides, the huge lazy river, and a wave surge swimming pool, you are sure to be in their good books for the rest of the holiday!
If we’ve managed to entice you with one of these destinations, and you’re looking to escape the UK for next year’s October half-term, it’s not too late to book your getaway! We have a variety of family packages available to help you get your last chance to soak in the sun before the winter sets in.
Find your nearest Dawson & Sanderson store and speak with an experienced travel adviser to find out more about our amazing deals on excursions to these wonderful locations.