We had planned a trip to France, England, and Italy in September, but due to work we've had to change our plans. Any good places to visit in the above countries in October? Our other choice is early December, but we're not sure when the holiday spirit hits Europe. Any ideas?

Why not go where you originally planned? Take a jacket and an umbrella.

"<i>Any good places to visit in the above countries in October?</i>" yes - anyplace in all three. Maybe there is some other question buried in there - But anyplace one could visit in Sept would be just fine in Oct.

You are talking about 3 very large and very diverse countries. How long did you plan for the trip?

I think weather in October would be fine in those places, and in some would be a very good time to go (like Italy and southern France).As for where exactly in those countries to go in OCtober versus September, you don't say where you planned to go, but I see no reason to change if you were interested in them. What do you mean holiday spirit in October? There is Octoberfest, but that's in Germany, and there are wine harvests in general in wine areas.

October is my favorite time to travel - shorter lines to prime tourist activities, less crowded markets and restaurants, pleasant weather, lower prices and the opportunity to really experience the environment. One caveat - make sure to check visiting times for your destinations. Hours may be shortened or days cut back. We usually find the drastic cut backs happen in November/December. Just check before finalizing plans.

We have been in each of those countries in the first half of October and it is usually busy with tourist at that time. I would go to any of them in October. That is when we like to travel - Sept and October.

Christina: "<i>There is Octoberfest, . . .</i>" Oktoberfest is in September -- well it usually runs through the first weekend in Oct. But it is not really an October festival.

"<i>What do you mean holiday spirit in October?</i>" I think the "holiday spirit" comment was re >>Our other choice is early December<< - the OP meant Christmas spirit.

travelrene: The German Christmas markets start in late November, and to give you and idea about the UK - the Trafalgar Sq Christmas tree is lighted the first week of December.

Dec is great in Europe -- but the days are MUCH shorter and the weather likely worse than in October.

October is the perfect month for the Cote d'Azur - still wonderful beach weather and warm seawater. In most parts of Italy, it will be warm and nice, too. In Venice, it will be too cold for swimming, but perfect for visiting.

England is a different story - but the pubs are always cozy.