The 10 best places to travel in October 2026

October is one of the best months to plan a leisure trip. In many popular destinations, it's shoulder season, bringing fewer crowds, lower hotel rates and comfortable weather.In the Northern Hemisphere, it's also prime time for fall foliage, while destinations south of the equator are welcoming spring with blooming flowers and warming temperatures.From leaf-peeping in New England to wine tasting in Vienna and chasing hot air balloons in Japan, these are 10 of the best places to visit in the U.S. and beyond this October.Related: 9 cool hotels for leaf peeping, from Central Park to the Rocky MountainsZürich, SwitzerlandSEAN PAVONE/GETTYIn October, Zürich comes to life with fall colors, cultural events and seasonal experiences.A major highlight is the Zurich Film Festival, running from Sept. 24 to Oct. 4. The festival features more than 100 films and a packed lineup of talks, masterclasses and galas featuring filmmakers, actors and other international guests.Just outside the city, Jucker Farm hosts its annual Pumpkin Exhibition through Oct. 25. The family-friendly event features elaborate pumpkin sculptures based on this year's "Bon Voyage" theme, along with a food festival and immers...