Where to go on holiday in October

Athens is the capital city and cosmopolitan heart of Greece. It brings together the modern and ancient, hip and historic. The landmark Acropolis, featuring the world-famous Parthenon, has been sitting on top of the city for 25 centuries. Around it is a sprawling metropolis. Trade the busy summer for a visit in October when Athens is cooler and more comfortable.

The falling temperatures in October should not put you off this Bavarian beauty. Check out the fascinating architecture across the city, from Marienplatz to Nymphenburg Palace, and when you’re done, be sure to wander around Englischer Garten for a splash of greenery. If you’re lucky, you might even see some river surfers.

There are many things to keep you entertained for days in Marseille. The Old Port was established in 600 BC and there are a number of museums to send you back to those days. The Marseille Pass grants you access to various attractions and public transport across the city. It's available in most shops and cafes in La Paine, Noailles and Le Panier.

Benidorm is built for tourists - there are more shops, restaurants, bars and clubs than you can ever expect to visit. The city has grown and thrived around a beautiful setting and two sandy bays offering spectacular views in every direction: Levante (sunrise beach) and Poniente (sunset beach). October is off-peak but still pretty warm. Even if you go all-inclusive, you should try to explore more of the area.

Corfu is the second biggest Ionian Island, sitting off the north-west coast of Greece. The Mediterranean summer extends to October so you are sure to get lots of sunshine. Before you explore the entire island, fuel up on coffee at one of the Liston cafes. Then, go for a shipwreck adventure, raft on the Voidomatis river or experience underwater gems.

A North African country on the Mediterranean sea, Tunisia is a great beach destination. Sun-soaked coast fringed by palm trees waits for you. If you love venturing off sandy shores, there are surprising attractions to see including Sahara dunes, souks, exotic cities and ancient ruins. You are likely to encounter riches left by Romans and beautiful Islamic architecture bestowed upon Tunisia by Arab Empires.

Bali is the place to be if you're after pristine white sands, the bluest of waters and the feeling of true relaxation and bliss. As well as some of the best beaches in the world, the island is known for its natural wonders – picturesque mountains, tranquil lakes and stunning waterfalls. The gastronomy is incredible too, whether you’re after street food, international food or traditional Balinese cuisine.

Sri Lanka is a country with diverse culture and landscape. The place is full of potential adventures, particularly when it comes to hiking. Climb the sacred mountain - Adam's Peak, or Sri Pada - visit tea plantations, explore the national parks. For a more relaxing break, lounge on a deserted beach. The choice of food on this tropical island will also captivate spice lovers.

A Dubai break offers the best of both worlds – beach life and city life. With delightfully warm temperatures throughout October, it makes for the perfect autumn holiday. Unwind at Jumeirah Beach Residence, which also has a host of activities including parasailing, wakeboarding, banana boating and camel rides. For a taste of the city, go shopping in Dubai Mall, the largest of its kind in the world. Once you’ve shopped til you’ve dropped, make sure to see the amazing view of the city from the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.

The saying goes ‘Mauritius was made first, and then heaven’ and it’s not hard to see why. Mauritius is a tropical paradise, complete with great year-round weather and an impressive selection of pristine sandy beaches. For natural beauty, be sure to check out the Seven Coloured Earths and Le Morne Brabant, a majestic mountain which was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.