For those thinking a sunny break may be an illusion as temperatures continue to drop in the UK, you may be in for a treat.
Europe is generally warmer than the UK which means escaping the cold in October for pleasantly warm days with plenty of sunshine by the coast could be a reality.
Found in the southern part of central Europe and the northern part of the Mediterranean, this pretty seaside city offers all when it comes to a cheeky sunny getaway.
The peak summer months may have ended in Zadar, Croatia, but this stunning region still offers blissful sunshine including inviting warm waters.
For these reasons, Zadar earns a spot on your October sunshine getaway list.
Zadar is a city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and is far more quiet compared to the heaving crowds often found in Split and Dubrovnik.
Zadar has been described as one of the coolest places on the Adriatic – and it’s easy to see why.
Think quiet beaches, breathtaking sunsets, expansive cliffs, and ancient Roman streets and you’ll get Croatia’s lesser-known hotspot.
The region also boasts an impressive history including Roman rule, Venetian domination, and even prehistoric settlements.
Today, history is still synonymous throughout Zadar with the ancient Roman Forum in the Old Town, created by Roman Emperor Augustus, the city’s main meeting area.
According to The Met Office, temperatures in Zadar still show an impressive average of 20C, even jumping to 22C for some days in October.
While basking in the sweet sunshine, there’s plenty to do, including island hopping on a speedboat, snorkelling, nature, and wildlife tours, or strolls around the ancient ruins.
Top attractions in Zadar and must-sees include the Sea Organ, the Church of St Mary, Krka national park, and the Zadar City Gates.
Gastronomy in Zadar is a real foodie heaven with dishes including a fish and crab stew, known as Brodet, dried pork neck soaked in red wine (Ninski šokol), traditional dried meat sausage (Šokol), Pag cheese and of course, fresh seafood.
Sample these flavours while sipping on the region’s world-famous liqueur which is made from the Marasca sour cherry known as Maraschino.
While sampling all of Zadar’s delights you can marvel at the at the horizon which turns into deep colours of red, orange and even pink as the sun drops below the horizon at dusk.
Even Alfred Hitchock was mesmerised by Zadar and its sunsets after the Hollywood legend holidayed in the region in 1964 describing the city’s sunsets as the world’s best.
London Gatwick Airport to Zadar Airport has an average flight time of around 4.5 hours and with awe-inspiring sunsets, delicious food and a warm Mediterranean climate, it’s a small price to pay for a slice of heaven.