The gorgeous island that has Europe's bluest waters and boasts 25C in October
As the UK settles into the grey drizzle of autumn, many holidaymakers are already plotting their escape to sunnier climes. According to Google data, searches for “where is hot in October” have surged to more than 36,000 this month alone, highlighting the growing desire to swap cold winds for warm beaches.
Car rental experts SIXT have analysed destinations across Europe to find the bluest waters, and one Mediterranean hotspot has emerged as both stunning and seasonally sunny: Malta. In October, temperatures here can climb to 25°C with lows of around 18°C, making it an ideal getaway for Brits craving sunshine long after summer has ended.
Malta is already famed for its coastal gems. The Blue Lagoon on Comino island is the most popular excursion, with its shimmering turquoise water and pineapple cocktails by the shore.
But with 3.7 million visitors expected this year, new restrictions mean entry is capped at 4,000 people daily, and advance booking is now mandatory.
Fortunately, Malta has a dazzling alternative: the Blue Grotto in Wied iż-Żurrieq. Ranked second in Europe for water clarity in SIXT’s analysis, this natural wonder features dramatic sea caves, soaring limestone cliffs, and some of the clearest turquoise waters on the continent.
Visitors can hop on a boat tour for just €10 (£8), glide through the grotto, and enjoy unlimited swimming, without the pressure of crowds or time slots. For avid photographers, it offers a quieter but equally photogenic backdrop compared to the Blue Lagoon.
Beyond the beaches, Malta also delivers culture and history in spades. Valletta, the island’s capital, blends grand Baroque architecture with a lively food scene, while the island’s charming fishing villages and coastal walks offer plenty to explore between dips in the sea.
According to SIXT’s study, the Blue Grotto is not only one of Malta’s crown jewels but also part of a wider list of Europe’s bluest waters. The top five ranked destinations are:
Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
The Blue Grotto, Malta
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Derwentwater, England
River Rhine, Germany
With its rare combination of Mediterranean warmth in October, rich culture, and access to some of the clearest waters in Europe, Malta proves to be one of the best autumn escapes for sun-seeking Brits.
Daily Express
