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IN SHORT
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At the end of October in Paris, between 12°C and small showers, the desire for a swim becomes pressing… except that the water is cooling down everywhere in Europe. Good news: in less than 3 hours flight from Paris, Tunisia – especially Djerba – still has a sea around 22 to 24°C, days around 23 to 28°C and reasonable prices. In 2h30, head towards the sun for an All Saints that still feels like summer, without shivering at the first wave.
Want to extend summer during the All Saints holiday without crossing the planet? Then head to Tunisia, a gem in the Mediterranean where swimming is still possible at the end of October, just 2h30 flight from Paris. With a sea between 22 and 24°C depending on the spots, days at 23–28°C, peaceful beaches and still reasonable prices, it’s the perfect plan to trade grayness for clear waters. Focus on Djerba (the safe bet), with a detour to Hammamet, Monastir, Sousse and the southern coast, plus some tips for a successful getaway.
In Paris at the end of October, we juggle between 12°C and small showers. The call of a “not too cold” sea is strong… except that in Europe, the water has already cooled down: around 18°C in Spain, 20°C in Greece, 19°C in Malta. Result: to take a dip without chattering teeth or undergoing an endless flight, the good card is played to the south of the Mediterranean: Tunisia.
At just 2h30 flight, you can still find a mild sea — 23–24°C on the Djerba side, 21–23°C towards Hammamet — and days that flirt with summer. When many destinations “close shop” after September, here, you can still swim without grimacing… and without the crowd.
Why it’s the last warm bubble in the Mediterranean
The geographical position of Tunisia makes all the difference: farther south than Malta, with a semi-desert climate tempered by the sea. In the Gulf of Gabes, Djerba benefits from shallow waters that retain heat. Result: in October, the water stays around 22°C (often more), and at the beginning of November, it remains around 20°C — very nice compared to the rest of the Mediterranean basin.
Weather at the end of October: what you’ll really feel
During the day, expect 23 to 28°C depending on the regions, generous sunshine (around 8 h of useful light) and very little rain. Evenings can drop down to 15–20°C — perfect for dining outdoors — and mornings sometimes start at 12–15°C, giving you a chance to enjoy a light sweater before the sun takes care of the rest.
For autumnal inspiration on well-being and nature in France, take a look at these ideas for refreshing places in autumn: a way to compare your thirst for sun with a few cozy breaks.
Djerba, the safe bet for diving in October
Djerba ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank. Direct flights from Paris take about 2h30, with regularly round trips around 150–200 €. On site, you can find good hotels starting at 40–50 € per night, and a meal at a restaurant costs around 10–15 €. The pleasure-price ratio outshines any rainy weekend in the metropolis.
And above all, the island stays lively in October: open hotels, activities on site, nautical spots available. You can enjoy the same beaches as in summer, but without the race for sunbeds. All this with a sea at 21–23°C and days often reaching up to 28°C.
XXL beaches and warm water for swimming
With over 100 km of coastline, Djerba enhances its postcard image: light sand, clear water, gentle waves, and almost deserted areas in autumn. The water is shallow over long distances: it’s ideal for children or for those who like to linger in the water before diving in for real.
All Saints budget: what a week in the sun costs
Between low-cost flights and a gentle cost of living, a week in October in Djerba can cost the same as a short stay in France. Tip: aim for weekday departures for lower fares, and stay flexible with times. For activities, prioritize boat outings early in the morning for calm waters and superb lighting.
Looking for inspiration to carry on through the winter? Here are 10 ideas to get away in the sun during winter and surely find swimming.
Hammamet, Monastir, Sousse and the southern coast: other options
If you like to vary the vibes, Tunisia offers credible alternatives for the All Saints holiday, all with water still swimmable.
Hammamet: the sea under the gaze of the medina
Hammamet will please fans of relaxed urban life: charming medina, easily accessible beaches, cafes smelling of orange blossom. The water hovers around 21–23°C in October. Bonus: it’s close to Tunis for a mix of beach and cultural visits for a day.
Monastir and Sousse: seaside resort, history included
With Monastir and Sousse, you can enjoy a pleasant coastline and a characterful heritage: the ribat and mausoleum in Monastir, the UNESCO-listed medina in Sousse. In terms of temperature: air around 26°C, sea 22–23°C. Perfect for alternating swimming and cultural strolling.
Southern coast towards Zarzis: wilder, quieter
Heading down towards Zarzis, you gain calm and sometimes warmer water (sometimes a small degree warmer than Djerba), but lose in infrastructure. If you dream of silence and almost empty beaches, this is a good plan. If you like animation, stay on Djerba or Hammamet.
Rather tempted by a nature getaway in France at the same time? The Brenne destinations offer marshes, birds, and big skies: another way to experience autumn.
Practical tips for an All Saints holiday with your feet in the water
Pack a windbreaker or a light sweater in your suitcase: evenings can be chilly, especially at the very beginning of November. Also bring water sandals if you like to walk long distances in the lagoons, sun protection (yes, even in October), and a hat: the sun is still strong at midday.
In terms of pacing, adopt the “morning beach, afternoon relaxation” strategy: the sea is often calmer and clearer in the morning, and the golden light makes photos irresistible. For those who enjoy visits, set aside half a day for a medina, a ribat, or a local market: colors, spices, and souvenirs to be had.
Need additional ideas if the weather gives you a capricious wink? Trade your swimsuit for a clever road trip with these electric car adventure challenges, or get inspired by a distant enchanting water gem, a secret beach in Arizona that sparks exploration desires… for another season.
