15 ideal destinations for the All Saints’ Day holidays
The All Saints’ Day holidays are approaching and you’re still not sure where to go? This time of year, between late October and early November, offers the perfect opportunity to get away for a few days. Whether you’re looking for the last rays of sunshine, a cultural immersion in a European city or a nature getaway in France, the possibilities are numerous. Temperatures remain pleasant in the south of Europe, while French cities are decked out in their autumn colours, offering authentic discoveries far from the summer rush.
From European city breaks to sunny Mediterranean destinations and French heritage gems, we’ve selected the 15 best destinations to go to for the All Saints’ holiday. So you can make the most of this autumn break!
1. Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France
Nicknamed the capital of gastronomy, Lyon is an ideal destination for the autumn break. Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, this city with its rich historical heritage is the ideal setting for an autumn city break. Its medieval Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, its famous traboules (narrow streets) and Fourvière hill make it a top cultural destination.
In October, temperatures remain mild in Lyon, hovering around 15°C, perfect for strolling through the cobbled streets of the Saint-Jean district or climbing up to the Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica, which offers an exceptional panoramic view of the city. It’s also the ideal time to discover Lyon’s famous bouchons, traditional restaurants where you can enjoy quenelles, brioche sausages and other local specialities.
Download the audio-guided tour to discover Lyon on foot and on your own
If you want to discover Lyon on your own, the Navaway audio tour takes you through the city’s most beautiful districts. In a 2? hour walk, you’ll explore the must-see sites with 26 entertaining audio guides that tell the fascinating story of this two-thousand-year-old city. From the Place Bellecour to the traboules of the Croix-Rousse, let yourself be guided for a complete immersion in Lyon’s atmosphere.
And don’t miss the Halles Bocuse, a veritable temple to Lyon’s gastronomy, where you can sample the finest local produce. For those wishing to explore further, the Croix-Rousse district, former stronghold of the canuts (silk workers), is also well worth a visit, with its steep slopes and village atmosphere.
See also the Lyon guide :
- Discover and visit the Halles Bocuse in Lyon
- Lyon in 3 days: complete guide and itinerary
- Free activities in Lyon: 16 free visits and outings
- 20 must-see weekend ideas around Lyon
- 9 exceptional Lyonnais bouchons to try
- Top 6 activities in Lyon
- 5 of the most beautiful villages around Lyon to visit this autumn
- The 10 best bike rides in Lyon
- 15 not-to-be-missed excursions around Lyon
2. Lisbon, Portuguese sunshine
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a prime destination for catching the last rays of sunshine during the All Saints’ Day holidays. With temperatures averaging around 20°C in October, the city of seven hills offers a particularly pleasant climate in which to explore its colourful streets and famous miradouros (viewpoints).
Lisbon’s charm lies in its well-preserved authenticity, its facades covered in azulejos, and its melancholy atmosphere lulled by the fado. The Alfama district, the city’s oldest, is a veritable maze of cobbled streets where it’s good to get lost. Don’t miss the Belem Tower and the Hieronymites monastery, two UNESCO-listed jewels that bear witness to the past grandeur of the Portuguese maritime empire.
If you want to visit Lisbon on your own, the Navaway itinerary guides you through 24 places of interest with entertaining audio guides. From the Pantheon to the Place du Commerce and Sé Cathedral, discover the fascinating history of this immortal city. And don’t forget to take the legendary 28 tram, which winds its way through the historic quarters – a must for every visitor.
3. Rome, the eternal Italian city
It’s impossible to talk about the best destinations for All Saints’ Day without mentioning Rome, the Eternal City. With temperatures still mild in October (around 18-20°C), it’s the ideal time to discover the treasures of the Italian capital without the summer tourist rush. Rome alone boasts 2,000 years of history, with ancient remains, Baroque churches and Renaissance squares.
The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican… the list of must-see sites is impressive. To make the most of your stay, start your visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially at the Vatican. The Trastevere district, with its cobbled streets and authentic trattorias, offers a more intimate atmosphere for discovering the Roman dolce vita.
Let yourself be guided through Rome’s most beautiful monuments by the Navaway itinerary, which takes you from the Colosseum to the Capitol via the Trastevere district. The 23 audio guides will tell you fascinating anecdotes about each site, from the time of the Roman emperors to the present day.
4. Barcelona, the vibrant Catalan capital
With an average temperature of 18°C in October and almost 220 days of sunshine a year, Barcelona is an ideal destination for your All Saints’ Day holidays. The Catalan capital’s unique architecture is a blend of medieval quarters and modernist creations by Gaudí.
From the Sagrada Família to Parc Güell, the Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona is bursting with architectural treasures. The beach at Barceloneta means you can still enjoy the Mediterranean at this time of year. It’s also the perfect time to discover the city’s museums, such as the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation, without queuing.
To visit Barcelona, the Navaway app offers two complementary tours: the first explores the historic centre with 26 places of interest, from Ciutadella Park to the Gothic Quarter, while the second immerses you in the fascinating world of Gaudí through his most emblematic creations.
5. Marseille, the sunny city of Marseille
The oldest city in France, Marseille enjoys exceptional sunshine even in October, with average temperatures of around 18°C. The city offers a unique blend of cultures, with Mediterranean influences and Provencal authenticity. Its emblematic Old Port, guarded by the Saint-Jean and Saint-Nicolas forts, is the ideal starting point for exploring the city.
The Panier district is Marseille’s oldest neighbourhood, with its colourful alleyways and bohemian atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to stroll between art galleries, craft shops and small cafés. Don’t miss the climb up to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, the “Good Mother” who watches over the city and offers a 360° panoramic view of Marseille and the Mediterranean.
To discover all the secrets of the city of Marseille, follow the Navaway itinerary, which guides you through 24 points of interest, from the Old Port to the creeks and the Canebière. The audio guides reveal the fascinating history of this cosmopolitan city, founded 2,600 years ago. And don’t forget to try a real bouillabaisse in one of Marseille’s traditional restaurants.
6. Bordeaux, capital of wine and the art of living
Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular destination for the All Saints’ Day holidays. Nicknamed the ‘Sleeping Beauty’, the city has woken up in recent years to become one of France’s most popular urban destinations. Its historic centre, the largest in Europe, is packed with remarkable monuments such as the Place de la Bourse and its water mirror, Saint-André cathedral and the Grand Théâtre.
October is a particularly good time to visit the Bordeaux region, as it’s the start of the grape harvest. Wine lovers can take advantage of this season to visit the prestigious châteaux of the Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. In town, don’t miss the Cité du Vin, an ultra-modern museum entirely dedicated to wine and its cultures.
Let the Navaway app guide you around Bordeaux, taking you on a walking tour of 29 places of interest. From the quays of the Garonne to the Saint-Pierre district, via Place Gambetta, you can explore all the treasures of this elegant city on your own.
7. Paris, the city of light in autumn
Paris remains magnificent in any season, but autumn lends it a special charm, with its flamboyantly coloured parks and romantic atmosphere. The autumn holidays are an excellent time to (re)discover the French capital, with fewer tourists than in summer and temperatures still pleasant at around 12-15°C.
It’s the perfect time to take a stroll in the Luxembourg or Tuileries gardens under the golden leaves, visit Parisian museums without the summer crowds, or stroll through iconic districts like Montmartre, the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Must-see monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe reveal all their beauty in the soft October light.
To visit Paris like a true Parisian, Navaway offers several themed itineraries through the capital. From the Trocadero to the Eiffel Tower, from the Père-Lachaise cemetery to the quays of the Seine, discover Paris in a different way thanks to fascinating audio guides that reveal the hidden secrets of the City of Light.
8. Seville, the soul of Andalusia under the sun
The capital of Andalusia, Seville enjoys an exceptional climate, with temperatures approaching 23°C in October. It’s one of Europe’s sunniest destinations for your All Saints’ Day holidays. The city’s exceptional heritage is a blend of Moorish and Christian influences that have shaped its unique identity.
The Real Alcázar, a Moorish palace with lush gardens, the Gothic cathedral and its Giralda, the Plaza de España and the Triana district are just some of the treasures to be discovered. Seville is also the Andalusian art of living, with its tapas, flamenco shows and lively terraces that go on until late at night. Don’t miss a magical walk along the Guadalquivir at sunset.
The Navaway app guides you through Seville‘s 28 must-see places of interest, from the cathedral to the Alcázar palace and the Santa Cruz district. The audio guides immerse you in the fascinating history of this city, which for centuries was the gateway to the riches of the New World.
9. Porto, Portuguese charm and the Douro vineyards
Portugal’s second-largest city, Porto offers a warm and authentic alternative for the All Saints’ holiday. With temperatures hovering around 18°C, it’s the ideal time to discover this city of strong character, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Porto’s charm lies in its historic medieval centre, its colourful houses clinging to the hills and its famous port wine cellars on the banks of Vila Nova de Gaia.
The city is best explored on foot, strolling through the cobbled streets of the Ribeira district, admiring the azulejos at São Bento station, or crossing the majestic Dom-Luís Bridge, which offers spectacular views over the Douro. Wine lovers will particularly appreciate a visit to the Port wine cellars, where you can taste this nectar in historic houses such as Sandeman, Taylor’s or Graham’s.
To explore Porto in depth, follow the Navaway itinerary, which takes you through the city’s most beautiful districts. The audio guides tell the story of the trading city that gave its name to Portugal, from its Roman origins to its present-day influence.
10. Bruges, the Venice of the North in autumn
Nicknamed the Venice of the North, Bruges is decked out in particularly photogenic autumn colours during the All Saints’ Day holidays. This medieval Flemish town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a real architectural gem, with its romantic canals, gabled houses and emblematic belfry. Despite cooler temperatures (around 12°C), October remains a pleasant time to discover Bruges, especially as the city is less overrun by tourists.
Bruges’ historic centre is easy to explore on foot. The Grand Place (Grote Markt) with its 83-metre belfry, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the Beguinage and the Lake of Love are all enchanting sights. Don’t forget to sample the local specialities: Belgian chocolates, waffles and, of course, the famous Trappist beers to be enjoyed in one of the many authentic breweries.
The Navaway itinerary guides you through Bruges with 22 audio guides recounting the golden age of this medieval merchant city. A canal cruise is the perfect complement to the walking tour to admire the city from the water, offering a unique perspective on Flemish architecture.
11. Florence, cradle of the Italian Renaissance
The capital of Tuscany, Florence is a top cultural destination for the All Saints’ holiday. With temperatures still mild (around 17°C), October is an ideal time to discover the city’s artistic treasures without the summer tourist rush. Florence alone boasts an exceptional density of Renaissance masterpieces, making it a veritable open-air museum.
The Duomo and its spectacular dome by Brunelleschi dominate the city, while the Uffizi Gallery houses the greatest masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens complete an impressive list of must-see sights. To avoid the queues that persist even out of season, remember to book your tickets in advance.
The Navaway app offers you a complete tour of Florence and explains how the city became the cradle of the Renaissance. The audio guides detail the fascinating history of the Medici family and their exceptional patronage, which enabled so many artistic geniuses to flourish.
12. Edinburgh, Scotland’s mysterious capital
If you’re looking for a mysterious atmosphere perfect for Halloween and All Hallows’ Eve, Edinburgh is the ideal destination. The Scottish capital, with its castle perched on a volcanic pedestrian bridge, its dark alleyways (the “closes”) and its legends of ghosts, offers a unique atmosphere. October is also the month of Edinburgh’s famous Halloween festival, one of the most impressive in Europe.
The medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile linking the castle to the Palace of Holyrood, and the UNESCO-listed Georgian New Town make up a remarkable architectural ensemble. Don’t hesitate to climb up to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering spectacular views over the city and the North Sea. The traditional pubs with their single malt whiskies and haggis warm up the chilly October evenings.
Discover Edinburgh with the Navaway itinerary, which takes you to 24 places steeped in history, myth and reality. The audio guides tell the fascinating legends that surround every corner of this spectral and endearing city.
13. Nice, the pearl of the Côte d’Azur
With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Nice is a great place to enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate during the All Saints’ Day holidays. Temperatures hover around 18°C, perfect for strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais, wandering through the colourful streets of Vieux-Nice, or discovering the city’s many museums.
Nice has a unique blend of French and Italian influences, a legacy of its membership of the kingdom of Piedmont-Sardinia until 1860. The flower market on the Cours Saleya, the port district with its trendy bars, and the hill of the castle with its exceptional panoramic views over the Baie des Anges are just some of the places to discover. Art lovers will particularly appreciate the Matisse and Chagall museums.
To visit Nice, follow the Navaway itinerary through 27 points of interest that reveal the history of “Nissa la Bella”. Fascinating audio guides tell the story of the evolution of this resort town, popular with the European aristocracy since the 19th century.
14. Toulouse, the pink city of the South-West
Nicknamed the pink city for the colour of its terracotta bricks, Toulouse offers a warm and authentic setting for the All Saints’ Day holidays. France’s fourth-largest city, its climate is still mild in October (around 16°C), and its architectural heritage is remarkable. The Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe, the Capitole with its monumental façade, and the Jacobins convent are not to be missed.
Toulouse is also the European capital of aeronautics and space. A visit to Airbus or the Cité de l’Espace will delight young and old alike. The banks of the Garonne invite you to take a stroll, while the many restaurants invite you to sample the specialities of the South-West: cassoulet, foie gras, duck breast and Toulouse violets.
The Navaway itinerary guides you through Toulouse with 23 audio guides that tell the story of this dynamic metropolis, from the Counts of Toulouse to its current status as the capital of aeronautics. It’s a fun way to discover all the secrets of the pink city.
15. Prague, the city of a hundred spires
The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague is an enchanting destination for the All Saints’ holiday. Nicknamed “the city of a hundred spires”, it boasts an exceptional architectural heritage combining Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles. Despite slightly cooler temperatures (around 10-12°C), October is still a great time to visit Prague, especially as the autumn colours bring out the best in the city’s parks and gardens.
The Charles Bridge lined with Baroque statues, Prague Castle dominating the city, the Old Town with its astronomical clock and Wenceslas Square are all magical places to discover. Prague can also be enjoyed in the evening, in one of its many traditional brasseries, where you can sample excellent Czech beer accompanied by hearty, tasty dishes.
To discover all the treasures of Prague, the Navaway application offers a complete tour of 25 major points of interest. The audio guides recount the eventful history of this city, which has survived the centuries while preserving its unique soul.
In conclusion, the All Saints’ Day holidays offer a host of possibilities for escapades in France and Europe. Whether you’re looking for the sunshine of southern Europe, the cultural excitement of major capitals or the authentic charm of heritage towns, you’ll find what you’re looking for among these 15 destinations. To make the most of your stay, don’t hesitate to download the Navaway audio tours, which will allow you to visit these cities independently, at your own pace, while discovering their best-kept secrets and stories. Enjoy your trip and the All Saints’ holiday!
Frequently asked questions
Where is the hottest place in Europe this All Saints’ Day?
The sunniest and warmest destinations in Europe during the All Saints’ Day holidays are in the south: Seville and Andalusia (23°C), the Canary Islands (24°C), Malta (22°C), southern Portugal and the Algarve (21°C), and Sicily (20°C) offer the best weather conditions. On the mainland, Nice, Marseille and Barcelona also enjoy pleasant temperatures of around 18-20°C.
When is the best time to leave for All Saints’ Day?
The All Saints’ school holidays generally take place during the last week of October and the first week of November. To get the best prices and avoid the crowds, choose a mid-week departure rather than a weekend. The weather in southern Europe is generally stable and pleasant throughout this period.
Do I need to book in advance for the All Saints’ holiday?
Yes, we strongly advise you to book your accommodation and transport at least 2 or 3 months in advance for the All Saints’ Day holidays. This is a very popular period for families, and prices rise considerably if you wait until the last minute. For major museums and monuments, don’t forget to book your tickets online to avoid long queues.
What are the best destinations for a short break of 3-4 days?
For an extended weekend, opt for destinations that are easily accessible and compact enough to be visited in a few days: Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona, Rome, Florence, Bruges, Edinburgh or the major French cities of Lyon, Bordeaux, Marseille or Toulouse are perfect for a 3-4 day city-break. These cities boast many places of interest in their historic centres, which are easy to explore on foot.
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