Every year, when autumn begins to show its colors, I feel that little shiver of impatience: the All Saints’ Day holidays. A well-deserved break after the start of school, the perfect moment to take a breath, get together with family and maybe treat yourself to a little getaway without blowing the budget.
And let me reassure you: traveling cheaply doesn’t mean giving up on magic! There are plenty of good deals to travel as a family (or as a couple) during this period. Whether you dream of open‑air walks, a magical weekend in an amusement park or a bit of sunshine before winter, I’ve prepared a selection of budget‑friendly holiday ideas for All Saints’ Day.
In short: the kind of trip that lifts the spirits without wrecking the bank account
TABLE OF CONTENTS :
| Why All Saints’ Day holidays are perfect for budget‑friendly family travel?
We’ve barely put away the swimsuits when cozy sweaters and hot chocolates are already coming back into service. Autumn is this cozy season par excellence: blazing colours, forest walks, and the smell of roasted chestnuts.
And right in the middle of all that, All Saints’ Day falls at just the right moment: far enough from summer to need a break, but before the frenzy of Christmas. It’s really the perfect time to recharge your batteries as a family.
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A stress‑free time to travel with children
The advantage of October is that destinations are far less crowded than in the height of summer. No packed beaches, no endless lines at rides, no traffic jams… in short, a true pleasure to travel and enjoy! Prices are also softer, which allows treating yourself without guilt.
Result: kids have fun, parents breathe, and everyone really enjoys themselves.
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How to travel smart without sacrificing comfort?
Traveling cheaply doesn’t mean sleeping in a tent in the middle of a field (unless you like that, of course). Today, there are plenty of smart solutions to travel at low cost: campsites with swimming‑pools and kids’ clubs, roomy off‑season holiday residences, or special offers at amusement parks. The idea is to mix good deals and comfort for a real vacation without overspending.
| What destinations in France for cheap All Saints’ holidays?
No need to cross the planet to get away: France is a goldmine for affordable All Saints’ holidays. Between wild nature, picturesque villages and coastal spots still mild in autumn, there’s plenty to enjoy without breaking the bank. Here are a few gems to discover as a family.
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The Baie de Somme, a breath of fresh sea air
If you want to disconnect and breathe deeply, the Baie de Somme is a perfect destination. Often ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world (and for good reason!), it offers amazing landscapes with dunes, marshes and wide open beaches.
Kids love spotting seals basking in the sun, and parents enjoy bike rides along the coast. On the budget side, accommodations like family‑friendly cottages or nature campsites are very affordable. In short: an ideal spot for a rejuvenating, wallet‑friendly holiday.
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The Mont‑Saint‑Michel and the cliffs of Étretat, classic must‑see, still dreamy off‑season
You may think the Mont‑Saint‑Michel is too touristic, but off‑season it’s a real gem. The medieval alleys, the tides that rise lightning‑fast even after several visits: the magic still works. And in autumn, good news, far fewer crowds, more accessible lodging and a unique atmosphere.
A bit further up the coast, the cliffs of Étretat are downright spectacular with their natural arches. Imagine a family walk at sunset, cliffs glowing orange and pink: memories that last forever.
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The Auvergne and its volcanoes, great nature adventure
Want wide open spaces without breaking the piggy‑bank? The Auvergne is a real playground for families. The Puy chain is perfect for accessible hikes, even with children, and the autumn landscapes are breathtaking with all their warm, fiery hues.
As a bonus, accommodations tend to be much more affordable than in big tourist regions. Chalets, cottages or small country houses: plenty of options to stay comfortably without overspending.
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The salt marshes of Guérande, an authentic, educational escape
If you love trips off the beaten path, the Guérande peninsula is a great idea. The salt marshes always fascinate children (and confess, adults too). You get to discover the salt‑workers’ work, and even bring back a bit of fleur de sel as a souvenir.
Add to that the wild nearby coast, charming villages like Le Croisic, and salty sea air walks: it becomes a fun, educational… and very affordable family getaway.
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The Côte Vermeille & Collioure, extending summer with softness
If you’re still dreaming of sun, hit the south and the Côte Vermeille. Collioure’s colourful houses, little fishing ports, wild coves… it all breathes Mediterranean charm. The advantage is that late October you can still walk around in a T‑shirt during the day.
Off‑season, hotel and rental prices drop, making this a great option for affordable autumn seaside holidays.
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Alsace, colourful villages and autumn vineyards
Autumn is THE season to discover Alsace. Villages like Riquewihr or Eguisheim look like postcards, with their half‑timbered houses and golden vineyards. Great for nice walks, cellar visits and enjoying the region’s warm, welcoming ambiance.
Good news: at All Saints’ time, prices remain reasonable, especially before the Christmas rush.
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The Jura, lakes and waterfalls in autumn mode
The Jura is an underrated but perfect region for the All Saints’ holidays. Between golden‑reflected lakes, waterfalls (like the Cascades du Hérisson) and forests bursting with autumn colors, it’s simply breathtaking. You can easily find family cottages or guest‑houses at a soft price.
And bonus: the region remains authentic and much less touristy than other mountain areas.
| Where to go in Europe for affordable All Saints’ holidays under the sun?
Let’s be honest: at All Saints’ Day, many of us still want to prolong the summer. And good news, there are plenty of destinations in Europe where you can still catch some sun without spending too much. Perfect to soak up vitamin D before winter sets in, while keeping a reasonable budget.
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The Canary Islands, guaranteed sunshine at soft cost
If there is one unmissable destination in October, it’s the Canary Islands. Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, whichever island you choose, you’re almost sure to find sunshine.
Beaches are still warm, kids can paddle in the sea and volcanic hikes are simply amazing. On the budget side: if you book early or travel with budget airlines, flights can be really affordable. Once there, living costs remain much lower than in many Mediterranean spots.
In short: a perfect sun spot for budget‑friendly All Saints’ holidays with family!
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The Costa Brava & the Medes islands, affordable Mediterranean vibe
Just a few hours from France’s border, the Costa Brava is a great family‑friendly option. The beaches remain pleasant in autumn, and colourful villages like Cadaqués or Tossa de Mar have that Spanish charm that instantly evokes travel.
If you enjoy diving or snorkeling, don’t miss the Medes Islands, a protected natural reserve full of fish. And once again, off‑season prices are really attractive, both for hotels and for apartment rentals.
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Italy or the “Île de Beauté” (Corsica), charm and mildness off‑season
In October, Italy is just perfect: Rome, Naples or Sicily enjoy mild weather, ideal for sightseeing without sweltering like in summer. Flights are often discounted at this period and the Italian dolce vita always does its little magic.
And if you prefer to stay in France, Corsica (the Île de Beauté) is a safe bet. Autumn on the island is dreamy: almost deserted beaches, calm roads and accommodations far more affordable than in August. A destination mixing sun, nature and authenticity, without breaking the bank.
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Portugal, sunshine and softness at a low price
Lisbon, Porto or the Algarve: Portugal is a sure bet for All Saints’ holidays. Weather stays mild, flights are often very budget‑friendly, and life there is generally cheaper than in France. Ideal for a family city‑trip or a small getaway under the sun.
And Portugal has that little something irresistible: yellow trams climbing Lisbon’s hills, colourful azulejos and pastel de nata enjoyed on a café terrace, how not to fall in love? A simple, warm and affordable destination, perfect for an autumn break!
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Croatia, a Mediterranean gem off‑season
Croatia is a mix of turquoise seas, medieval villages and magnificent nature. At All Saints’ Day, summer crowds are gone, so you can explore Dubrovnik, Split or Zadar peacefully. On the budget side: it’s the perfect moment, accommodations and flights are much cheaper than in peak season.
Beyond coastal towns, Croatia hides natural marvels like the Plitvice Lakes, surrounded by forests bursting in autumn colours. A real postcard setting. For me, it’s an ideal destination if you dream of a trip combining culture, nature and sunshine on a budget.
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Greece, between culture and still‑pleasant beaches
In October, Greece still has an Indian‑summer vibe. Athens is perfect to combine cultural visits and a gentle lifestyle, and some islands like Rhodes or Crete still allow bathing. Off‑season, prices are much lower and heritage sites far less crowded.
What I love about Greece at this time: the golden autumn light on ancient temples, and small tavernas where you can enjoy a mousakka or some mezze without spending much. A destination that checks all boxes: exotic, sunny and budget‑friendly.
| What types of budget accommodation to favor with family for All Saints’ holidays?
When traveling with children, accommodation is often the biggest chunk of the budget. But don’t panic, there are plenty of smart options to sleep comfortably without blowing your wallet. The trick is to pick the right places, and especially the right moment (and All Saints’ holidays definitely is one).
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Campsites with water‑parks and kids’ clubs
We sometimes imagine “camping” as rough—but today, many offer real holiday‑village experiences at gentle prices. Bungalows, glamping, mobile‑homes, heated pools, water areas, kids’ clubs etc., the winning combo for families.
And off‑season, prices drop dramatically: you may enjoy a 4‑star campsite for a fraction of summer prices. Enough to give kids a fun vacation while keeping budget tight.
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Family residences and roomy flats at low prices
If you travel in a group, renting an apartment or family residence can quickly become the most economical solution. Indeed, because you can cook at home (avoiding restaurants every meal), and also because it’s often more spacious and practical with children.
Some “premium” residences slash their prices off‑season, which allows to enjoy top‑comfort lodgings at very affordable rates.
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Hotel deals and rentals thanks to budget tricks
For families preferring hotels, no problem: there are plenty of money-saving deals at All Saints’ time.
- Discount programs like travel‑cards or booking platforms often offer interesting reductions.
- “Holiday vouchers” or similar discount systems can also help lighten the bill.
- Finally, small local guesthouses or family‑run hotels remain a safe bet if you want a more authentic experience on a budget.
| How to organize cheap All Saints’ holidays? Here are my tips
Okay, we talked about destinations and accommodation, but let’s be honest, the real issue is the budget. Good news: with a little organization and some smart tricks, you can really travel on the cheap without missing out on fun. Here are my tips to save money without sacrificing enjoyment.
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Book very early… or cleverly at the last minute
There are two camps here:
- Those who book very early and grab the best “early‑booking” deals (perfect if you like planning everything).
- Those who play the last‑minute card, taking advantage of sharply reduced prices because some spots remain to be filled.
Personally, I like mixing both: anticipate long trips (plane/train, no choice, since prices are expensive and it’s better to book ahead) and wait a bit for lodging.
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Travel by train or by car‑pooling to reduce costs
During All Saints’ holidays, traffic isn’t as chaotic as in summer. So it’s often easier to find cheap train tickets, especially if booked early. And if you travel solo, consider car‑pooling: economical, friendly and way more fun than spending hours alone on the highway.
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Responsible travel can also mean savings
More and more destinations in France and Europe highlight sustainable tourism: eco‑labels, green lodgings, soft transports etc. Not only is it good for the planet, but often it’s also cheaper. Bike rides, hikes, picnics in nature: all activities that bring joy and cost almost nothing.
| And how about extending the getaway with a romantic stay? (bonus for couples)
All Saints’ holidays are already a wonderful breath of fresh air in the year, but if you want to extend the magic a little, why not treat yourself to a small romantic getaway? It’s the perfect time for a couple’s escape, a moment to breathe together without the kids (if grandparents are available, of course).
Unusual wellness stays: troglodyte spa or quirky hotels
If you dream of cozy cocooning, consider unusual wellness stays. Some troglodyte hotels in France offer spas carved into rock: original, cosy and perfect to recharge as a couple. And honestly… what’s better than a massage or a jacuzzi after an autumn hike?
Conclusion
As I said, going away cheaply during the All Saints’ holidays is far from mission impossible! Whether you choose a breath of fresh air in France or even a short escape in Europe, there are plenty of options to get away without spending too much.
The secret is to stay smart: take advantage of the low season, pick family‑friendly accommodations, and above all, dare to explore destinations off the beaten track.
Looking for inspiration for each season, whether as a couple, family or friends ? Check out our “where to go” section.
