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City trips in October: Our 5 autumn favourites

These five city trips in October offer culture, cuisine and comfort. Tips for autumn destinations in Europe from Vienna to Seville.

Blick auf den Dom von Florenz mit Kuppel und Campanile im warmen Herbstlicht, eingerahmt von Zypressen und Herbstlaub

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Officially issued by Swisscard AECS GmbH 06.08.2025

Publisher: Vladislav Zolotov

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Written by Redaktion AMEXperience 06.08.2025

Vienna: Classical elegance and coffeehouse culture

Vienna is an ideal travel destination in October. The parks glow in autumn colours, the museums offer major special exhibitions, and in the evening, a concert or opera performance beckons. Especially impressive: a walk through the Burggarten, followed by a hot chocolate at Café Central or Café Sperl.
Shopping, culture and cuisine can be combined particularly well in Vienna. Those seeking stylish accommodation will find properties with Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits in the Platinum partner network.

Familie vor dem Riesenrad im Wiener Prater bei blauem Himmel und Herbstlicht

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Officially issued by Swisscard AECS GmbH 06.08.2025

Publisher: AleksandarNakic

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Tip: Discover modern art at the Albertina and enjoy lounge benefits at Vienna Airport with the Platinum Card.

Seville: Warm autumn days in southern Spain

Seville delights in October with temperatures up to 27 degrees and a calm, indulgent atmosphere. The narrow streets of the old town, the vast cathedral with the Giralda bell tower, and the Moorish royal palace Alcázar offer insights into Andalusia’s rich heritage.
Culinary highlights abound in Seville, with tapas bars on every street. From grilled octopus to Jamón Ibérico, the selection is wide. Particularly charming: the courtyards of many eateries, bathed in warm evening light.

Blick auf die Kathedrale von Sevilla mit Giralda-Turm bei Sonnenuntergang über den Dächern der Altstadt

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Officially issued by Swisscard AECS GmbH 06.08.2025

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Nice to know: Several flamenco festivals take place in Seville in October. Perfect for an authentic getaway in southern Europe.

Lisbon: Light, alleys and hidden spots

Lisbon feels especially magical in autumn. The city on the Tagus glows in golden light, the climate is mild, and the viewpoints are less crowded than in summer. From the Alfama district and the MAAT to the Art Nouveau cafés in Baixa, the city can be explored at a relaxed pace.
For the curious, our Hidden Places & Spaces in Lisbon are worth a look. We feature lesser-known spots off the usual paths – from rooftop bars with panoramic views to hidden gardens in the heart of the city.

Panoramablick auf Lissabon bei Sonnenuntergang mit pastellfarbenen Häusern, Tejo und Kirchenfassade im Vordergrund

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Officially issued by Swisscard AECS GmbH 06.08.2025

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Tip: Take tram 28 early in the morning before it gets crowded. Then enjoy Pastéis de Nata in Belém and stroll through the botanical garden.

Florence: Art, culture and Tuscan lifestyle

Florence is much calmer in October than during high season. The cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio can be explored without the crowds. The Boboli Gardens are especially beautiful, offering views over the city’s rooftops.
Away from the centre, stylish restaurants entice with autumn cuisine and Tuscan wine. For even more relaxation, the city trip can be combined with a seaside stay. Our article on Italy’s most beautiful beach hotels features exclusive properties.

Ponte Vecchio und Altstadt von Florenz bei weichem Licht mit Blick auf die Brücke und historische Häuser am Flussufer

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Officially issued by Swisscard AECS GmbH 06.08.2025

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Nice to know: Many wineries in the Chianti region offer tastings in October with views of the ongoing grape harvest. If you want to stay flexible, the Platinum Card provides exclusive car rental benefits such as upgrades, preferred vehicle selection or additional insurance — perfect for a stylish day trip through the Tuscan hills.

Lucerne: Lake, art and cuisine

Lucerne offers an ideal balance of nature, culture and culinary delights for an October city break. The old town impresses with its historic buildings, and Lake Lucerne with its calm atmosphere. The KKL Lucerne presents musical highlights of international calibre. For those who want to explore more, our article 6 Top Sights in and around Lucerne offers additional highlights for a perfect short trip.

A culinary tip: Restaurant Olivo in Lucerne, located in the Grand Casino. As a Platinum Card member, you receive a credit of CHF 40 per quarter for any dinner over CHF 250.

Luftaufnahme von Luzern mit Kapellbrücke, Wasserturm, Vierwaldstättersee und Pilatus im Hintergrund, exklusives Reiseziel mit American Express Vorteilen.

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Good to know: The lakeside promenade is a highlight even in October — especially atmospheric at sunset with views of the Alps.

Eine Hand greift nach einer Tasse Cappuccino, daneben liegt eine Kreditkarte von American Express auf einem Smartphone.

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Frequently asked questions and answers

Vienna, Seville, Lisbon, Florence and Lucerne are ideal destinations in October. They offer cultural variety, great cuisine and pleasant weather.

In southern and southwestern Europe — such as Seville, Lisbon or Florence — temperatures typically range from 20 to 27 degrees. Lucerne and Vienna also invite visitors to enjoy cultural strolls in crisp autumn air.

The Platinum Card offers lounge access, hotel upgrades, a quarterly CHF 40 dining credit, personal concierge services and travel insurance.

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