Fancy taking a trip after the school summer vacation? Dive into our guide to the best places to travel in September. Covering everything from tropical escapes and Amazonian adventures, to soaking up the last of the sun in Europe, here we share vacation ideas for all tastes and budgets.
Pinkcoco hotel, Gili Air, Indonesia — a best place to travel in September © Shutterstock
Why visit: paradise without peak-season crowds
Temperature: 75°F to 86°F (24°C to 30°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$200
We’ll kick off with a trio of dreamy Indonesian islands — namely the glorious Gili Islands.
Located off the northwest coast of Lombok, visiting any of the three Gilis — Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air — in September means you’ll get to enjoy idyllic beaches during the region’s April-October dry season.
At the same time, September sits outside peak-tourist season, which in our view makes the islands even more idyllic.
While each island has a distinct vibe — Gili Trawangan is the most developed, Gili Meno is smallest and quietest, while Gili Air sits somewhere between the two — the islands share some characteristics.
They’re all blessed with beautiful beaches, and exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences, and none of them are spoiled by motorized vehicles. That is to say, you’ll get around by bike, cart, or on foot.
It’s also worth knowing that prices on all three islands are generally higher than on Bali and mainland Lombok as a result of pretty much everything having to be imported.
Editor’s tip: Looking to simplify your planning? Discover our customizable Indonesia itineraries for easy inspiration.
Where to stay: for luxury on Gili Trawangan, try Luce d’Alma Resort & Spa.
On Gili Meno, we rate Meno Dream Resort. Located on the southwest coast, it offers warm hospitality, lovely bungalows, cooking classes, and free bike use.
When it comes to Gili Air, PinkCoco on the northwest coast bills itself as "the sexiest hotel on the island".
On more of a budget? Consider Captain Coconuts. With beds in the Bamboo Lodge suspended from the rafters, this is no ordinary hostel.
Ljubljana, Slovenian © Shutterstock
Why visit: crowd-free city exploration and superb day trips
Temperature: 54°F to 75°F (12°C to 24°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150
Clean, green and sublimely scenic, you voted Slovenia one of the most beautiful countries in the world for many good reasons.
Tucked into the Ljubljanica river and overlooked by a castle, cities don’t come much more fairy-tale-tastic than its capital, Ljubljana, with September offering warm weather and crowd-free conditions.
In fact, it’s the ideal time of year to take walking and cycling tours of the city, with the expansive Tivoli Park on hand for picnics. The weather should also still be warm enough for al fresco dining, and boat trips along the Ljubljanica River.
Visit at the start of September and you’ll catch the end of the Ljubljana Festival, and hit the grape-harvest season, which means you should keep an eye out for wine-themed events.
Ljubljana is also a beautiful base from which to see some of Slovenia's top attractions. For example, under an hour from the capital, Lake Bled is a must-visit.
Thanks to its little island, cliff-top castle and mountain backdrop, its a truly magical spot and, quite possibly, Europe's greenest destination.
Editor’s tip: Not sure when to travel? Find out what to expect from exploring Slovenia in spring and read our beginners guide to Ljubljana
Where to stay: for Art Nouveau style in the heart of the city, see Grand Hotel Union Eurostars.
On a budget? Try Boutique Hostel Angel.
El Hierro — one of the best places to travel in September for rustic escapes © Shutterstock
Why visit: September sun, solitude, diving and hiking
Temperature: 70°F to 81°F (21°C to 27°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150
El Hierro — the smallest island in the Canary Island archipelago — is also the hardest to reach, and thus the least-visited by tourists.
Put simply, if you’re looking for bouncing bars in the company of 24-hour party people, this isn’t the Canary Island for you, especially in September, when the moderate numbers of summer visitors have departed.
It’s fact, El Hierro is something of a sanctuary from tourist trappings — a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve that draws divers, hikers, and get-away-from-it-all-ers.
Valverde, the only Canarian capital located inland is small, with a cluster of friendly bars and restaurants.
Other inland sights include the Tubo Volcánico — a 295-foot volcanic cave — and El Sabinal, a forest of juniper trees (sabinosas) that have been twisted, gnarled and bent by the wind.
If you’re desperate for a bit of beach time, Playa del Verodal is El Hierro’s best.
Editor’s tip: Seeking ideas for your trip? Take the hassle out of planning with our Spain itineraries, ready to customize.
Where to stay: take a look at Salitre and Lightbooking Varadero La Restinga.
Tallinn's Old Town © ESB Professional/Shutterstock
Why visit: old town magic, nature and the Tallinn Fringe Festival
Temperature: 46°F to 59°F (8°C to 15°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150
As visitor numbers — and temperatures — drop in September, Tallinn’s allure rises as the city glows with fall colors, adding extra magic to its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town.
Once you’ve taken in its medieval majesty, and historic landmarks like Toompea Castle, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the Town Hall Square, take advantage of the mild weather to wander Kadriorg Park and stroll the seaside promenade.
A little further afield, an hour’s drive or bus ride from Tallinn, Lahemaa National Park — the largest of Estonia’s national parks, and one of the best things to see in Estonia — stretches along the north coast.
Comprising lush forests, pristine lakes, and ruggedly beautiful coves and wetlands, the land is dotted with giant Ice Age rocks and tiny villages. Meanwhile, brown bears, wild boar, moose and lynx call the forest home.
Back in town, the Tallinn Fringe Festival runs from mid-August through to mid-September, so what are you waiting for?
Where to stay: for 4-star finery at a great price, we rate Nunne Boutique Hotel.
On a budget? Try The Monks Bunk Hostel and Bar.
Looking for more ideas for your trip? Explore our list of dream vacation destinations to suit any traveler.
Taveuni island, Fiji © Shutterstock
Why visit: idyllic diving, hiking and chilled island living
Temperature: 73°F to 82°F (23°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $150-$250
Pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant reefs, and lush landscapes during a sunny dry season month that sits outside peak season. There are plenty of reasons the South Pacific archipelago of Fiji is one of the best places to travel in September.
If you want to dive or hike lush rainforests alongside blissing out on beaches, we especially recommend Taveuni — it’s not for nothing that it’s known as the Garden Island of Fiji.
The sublimely clear waters around the island provide excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling, with celebrated sites like Great White Wall and Rainbow Reef teeming with marine life and colorful coral.
On land, you can walk truly outstanding trails. Take your pick from the Lavena Coastal Walk and the trail to Bouma National Heritage Park, the latter of which features the stunning Tavoro Waterfalls. Better still, walk them all.
While walking, be sure to look out for remarkable avian life, including the endemic Taveuni silktail. This island really is a paradise for bird lovers.
Editor’s tip: fancy island-hopping around this idyllic area? Find out about the best things to do in Fiji and discover our Fiji itineraries.
Where to stay: Aroha Taveuni has a gorgeous beachfront location and great restaurant, while Maravu Taveuni Lodge is also superbly-sited by a reef, and offers rooms and dorms.
Pink City aka Toulouse, France © AdobeStock
Why visit: glorious Gallic food and culture
Temperature: 57°F to 77°F (14°C to 25°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
Known as the Pink City due to the blushing hue of its historic buildings, Toulouse is a vibrant urban hub you might just fall in love with, especially in mild September, when said hues take on the glorious glow of fall.
Though officially outside the administrative région, Toulouse is the cultural capital of medieval and modern Languedoc.
And by culture we mean everything from the architectural charms of its Vieux Quartier (Old Quarter), to cutting edge science —Toulouse just happens to be the capital of the European aerospace industry.
Celebrated for hearty cassoulet, duck confit and saucisse de Toulouse, the city also lays claim to being one of France's top culinary cities. Oh, and it’s the capital of wine in South-West France.
Editor’s tip: If you're after inspiration or a stress-free plan, check out our customizable France travel itineraries.
Where to stay: 5-star La Cour des Consuls Hotel and Spa is ultra-elegant and has a wonderful restaurant.
We also rate Hôtel de Brienne — a cozy, canal-side option.
Kerkyra, Corfu, Greece © Shutterstock
Why visit: sun, wine and walks in nature
Temperature: 66°F to 82°F (19°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
As revealed in our guide to the weather in Corfu in September, this is arguably one of the best months to visit this Greek island beauty.
Offering warm weather — regarded by many as being preferable to the scorching heat of summer — and fewer crowds, conditions are pretty much perfect for enjoying long walks and swimming.
For example, September is a great month to tackle the Corfu Trail — as 124 miles walking route that encompasses the covers the entire island from Cape Asprókavos in the south to Áyios Spyrídhon beach in the north.
September is also the ideal month for oenophiles to visit Corfu. Usually held across the first weekend of the month, the Arrillas Wine Festival celebrates the local harvest though wine wine-making demos, feasting and traditional dancing.
Meanwhile, the Kassiopi Wine Festival sees local wine, food and music celebrated around the pretty harbor.
Editor’s tip: our Greek itineraries trip take in Athens, Corfu, Santorini, and Crete in luxurious style.
Where to stay: located steps from Corfu Town's central square, Bella Venezia — a restored historic mansion — offers comfortable rooms and a lovely garden.
We also rate Perama’s Ray Hotel.
Planning a trip to Corfu? Make sure to choose the ideal spot to stay and fully enjoy the beauty of the island.
Petra, Jordan © Shutterstock
Why visit: ancient wonders and epic walks
Temperature: 68°F to 90°F (20°C to 32°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
Petra, an ancient city carved into the rose-red sandstone cliffs, is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and a UNESCO World Heritage site to boot.
Given that the intense summer heat begins to cool down in September, it’s a top time to visit if you want to mix visiting all those ancient wonders with hiking.
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) — the most iconic structure in Petra — is famous for its façade carved into the cliff face, with the narrow, winding Siq gorge providing an unforgettable entry point.
Meanwhile, the Royal Tombs are every bit as awe-inspiring — a series of grand buildings also carved into the cliffs.
When it comes to walks, heading up to the Monastery (Ad-Deir) is pretty challenging, but well worth it. The same goes for visiting the High Place of Sacrifice — an ancient altar that offers panoramic views. Just be aware that September is still hot around these parts, so best to visit early.
Editor’s tip: uncover a host of regional riches — including Petra — on our customizable Jordan itineraries.
Where to stay: 20-minutes from the site, 5-star Hayat Zaman Hotel And Resort offers stunning views of the Sharah Mountain Range in the ancient village of Taybeh.
On a budget? Try Petra Pillars Hostel.
Douro Valley, Portugal © Shutterstock
Why visit: grape harvest goodness and sublime scenery
Temperature: 57°F to 79°F (14°C to 26°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$200
Heralding the grape harvest season (vindima), September is a wonderful month to visit Portugal’s Douro Valley, which is famed for its wonderful wines and port.
It’s fair to say, the Douro Valley is one of the most picturesque wine regions in the world, with terraced vineyards, rolling hills, and the meandering Douro River — be sure to book a leisurely cruise to soak up the landscape.
Come September, many towns and villages in the region host celebratory events and festivals. As well as partaking in these events, why not enjoy a vineyard grape-picking experience, or go on wine-tasting tours in impossibly scenic surroundings?
Editor’s tip: Want some inspiration? Browse our customizable Portugal itineraries for an effortless travel experience.
Where to stay: located in a former 18th-century wine estate, Pinhao's luxurious Vintage House overlooks vineyards and has an outdoor pool and panoramic river views.
We also adore Quinta De La Rosa. It's located in a wine-producing estate on the right bank of Douro River.
Basilica our Lady Guadalupe, Mexico City © Shutterstock
Why visit: Independence Day celebrations and out-of-town trips to ancient ruins
Temperature: 54°F to 72°F (12°C to 22°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150
September sees the weather in Mexico transition from the wet season into a drier period during a month that also sees Mexico City host Independence Day celebrations on September 16.
Featuring fireworks, parades and cultural events, with a grand closing ceremony on Zócalo Square, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city.
At the same time, September is a shoulder-season, meaning there are fewer tourists to hamper your exploration of the city’s UNESCO-designated center, along with other highlights, like the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the nearby ancient ruins of Teotihuacan.
Editor’s tip: want to experience Mexico City in authentic style? This one week in Mexico itinerary is just right for that.
Where to stay: for a four-star experience, the gorgeous Gran Hotel Ciudad de Mexico features historic architecture and two upscale authentic Mexican restaurants.
Or, for historic grandeur in the hipster heaven of Colonia Juarez, head to Hotel Geneve.
Galway oysters at the International Oyster Festival © Stephen Barnes/Shutterstock
Why visit: epic scenery and an International Oyster Festival
Temperature: 50°F to 63°F (10°C to 17°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
Incredibly scenic around the year, Galway is an especially good September destination for foodies as it sees the city host the Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival.
Usually held in late September, this celebrates Galway's seafood heritage with oyster shucking competitions, seafood tastings, parades, and lots of live music events.
Alongside exploring Galway landmarks like the Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral, and the medieval St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church, be sure to take trips to the surrounding countryside.
The Connemara region and Cliffs of Moher are especially stunning in early fall. Though you’ll want to take a light waterproof jacket to be on the safe side, the temperatures are likely to be pretty mild.
Where to stay: located between the city and Salthill seaside resort, the Clybaun Hotel provides easy access to Connemara, the Aran Islands, and the best of the west of Ireland.
Meanwhile, the very handsome Hardiman in the center of town has its own oyster bar.
Ksamil, Albania © Shutterstock
Why visit: affordable September sun, coastal fun and UNESCO attractions
Temperature: 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$150
Occupying a stretch of coastline along the Ionian Sea, the Albanian Riviera is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, with September’s weather still gloriously warm enough to sunbathe, swim and visit the area’s historic sights.
What’s more, September sees the peak summer season wind down, which means you’ll have more space on all those beautiful beaches. From Dhërmi and Jale, to Himara and Ksamil, it’s clear why the Albanian Riviera is said to be home to some of the region’s best.
But don’t spend all your time stretched out on the sand. It would be a crying shame to not visit ancient ruins and historic sites such as the Butrint National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage site — and the Llogara Pass.
Where to stay: for a relaxed beach break, try Blue Water Hotel or Blue Eye in Ksamil.
Yellow-crowned Amazon parrot, Colombia
Why visit: river trips, rainforest treks and unforgettable cultural experiences
Temperature: 73°F to 88°F (23°C to 31°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
Full disclosure: in line with its tropical climate, September sees Colombia’s Amazon region — one of the world’s most beautiful and diverse ecosystems — subject to rain showers.
That said, September isn't as wet as other months. In fact, it sees the water levels of the preceding months begin to recede, while remaining high enough for you to explore flooded forests and rivers by boat.
As a result, as more riverbanks are exposed, wildlife-spotting by boat is a whole lot easier, especially all the caimans that slink to and from the banks.
Alongside enjoying river tours, you could go on guided jungle treks, try your hand at fishing and canoeing, and visit indigenous communities in the company of local guides.
Editor’s tip: keen to visit Colombia but unsure about planning? Browse our customizable Colombia itineraries.
Where to stay: Omshanty Jungle Lodge offers bungalows and rooms with shared bathrooms, plus easy access to hiking trails, bird-watching experts, and trips to indigenous communities.
Meanwhile, Eco Hotel El Refugio de La Floresta is close to the Scientific Amazon Institute and well-sited for jungle tours.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Milan © Shutterstock
Why visit: Milan fashion week, art and culture
Temperature: 59°F to 77°F (15°C to 25°C)
Average daily budget: $150-$500
With Milan Fashion Week held in late September, this is a great time to visit to experience the city in full-on fashionista mode, and to bag yourself some fresh new-season threads.
At the same time, September’s mild-to-warm weather lends itself well to exploring the city’s historic sites and top attractions on foot, among them the Duomo di Milano and Sforza Castle.
Then there’s the beautiful terracotta-and-brick church of Santa Maria delle Grazie — the reason many folks visit Milan as a result of it hosting Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper.
On that subject, head to the Leonardo da Vinci National Museum to explore Italy’s largest museum dedicated to science and technology.
Housed in the ancient monastery of San Vittore al Corpo, it’s staggeringly beautiful inside and out, and illuminating with it.
Editor’s tip: Want some inspiration? Browse our customizable Italy itineraries for an effortless travel experience.
Where to stay: Combo Milano — a contemporary hostel set in one of Navigli's historic buildings — is a great-value base for a budget Milan trip.
At the other end of the scale, set in a 15th-century convent in Quadrilatero della Moda, Four Seasons Hotel Milano is one of the most luxurious places to stay in the center.
Ibiza's Old Town © Shutterstock
Why visit: high-energy end-of-season parties and chilled nature experiences
Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
Still hot as the clubbing season draws to an end with closing parties, traveling to Ibiza in September means you’ll get to experience the island in the fiery last throes of summer, with the option of also uncovering its other allures in more relaxed style.
Yep, that’s right. There’s more to the island than nightlife. Beyond the beyond and clubs, Ibiza is loaded with natural attractions. For example, you could take a boat trip to Es Vedrà (an iconic limestone rock island off the southwest coast), hike to the summit of Sa Talaia for panoramic views, or explore Can Marça caves.
In addition, as the month draws on and more clubbers leave, ambling Ibiza Town’s Dalt Vila (Old Town) UNESCO World Heritage site is all the most pleasant.
Editor’s tip: not sure about Ibiza? Discover the best Balearic Island for every type of traveler and discover our Spain itineraries.
Where to stay: for 5-star style in Ibiza Town, try Sir Joan Hotel, while Hotel MiM Ibiza & Spa offers Art Deco elegance next to the beach.
Trieste, Italy © Shutterstock
Why visit: history, culture and festivals in warm weather
Temperature: 61°F to 75°F (16°C to 24°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
If you’re looking for a different kind of single-base vacation in Italy that delivers a breadth of experiences, consider heading to Trieste in September.
Framed by green hills and dazzling limestone cliffs, this history-rich city overlooks the blue Adriatic, offering an idyllic panorama from its hilltop citadel. Come September, the weather remains warm and sunny, while the summer crowds have departed.
At the same time, after kicking off in June, the fabulous Trieste Estate festival continues until mid-September, offering everything from music, ballet, theatre and film, to fun shows for kids.
Adding to Trieste’s cultural allure in September, this month also sees the city host the Festival di Trieste – Il Faro della Musica.
Promising immersive symphonic concerts, chamber music, and dance performances staged on some of the city’s most enchanting backdrops (there’ll even be a floating sea platform), this is set to be a wonderful way to explore Trieste’s top historic attractions.
Talking of which, be sure to visit Miramare Castle, Piazza Unità d'Italia, the Roman Theatre, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.
Editor’s tip: for a thoroughly rewarding mix of adventure and culture, check out our customizable Italy itineraries.
Where to stay: located on Piazza Unità d'Italia, Trieste's finest square, Grand Hotel Duchi d'Aosta offers luxury accommodation and charming old-world atmosphere.
Alternatively, Nuovo Albergo Centro is a top affordable option, with a friendly traditional vibe in a great central location.
Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park, Utah, USA © prochasson frederic/Shutterstock
Why visit: National Park adventuring and the Utah State Fair
Temperature: 64°F to 90°F (18°C to 32°C)
Average daily budget: $200-$300
Boasting five National Parks — Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion — collectively known as the Mighty Five, Utah is a top US state to tour in September.
At this time of the year, summer crowds have diminished and temperatures remain mild-to-warm, especially in the south. All the better for hiking, biking, climbing and camping. It’s also a good time to take to the lakes and reservoirs to boat, fish and kayak.
Outdoor activities aide, September also sees the Utah State Fair take place in Salt Lake City.
Sited near the base of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, the fair's events are nothing but diverse — from rodeos and monster truck demos, to traditional rides and contemporary art.
Where to stay: Salt Lake City's pretty Peery Hotel is centrally located in the theatre district, while Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites is a good family option.
Lausanne, Switzerland © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock
Why visit: scenic strolls around Switzerland’s San Francisco
Temperature: 52°F to 68°F (11°C to 20°C)
Average daily budget: $150-$250
Often called Switzerland’s San Francisco, Lausanne is impossibly pretty. A place of steep hills tiered on south-facing terraces above a glittering lake, with lakefront promenades to stroll, and the Savoy Alps peeping between gaps in buildings.
With mild-to-warm weather, September is a wonderful month to walk the surrounding hills and mountains, with scenic trails offering breathtaking views of the Alps and Lake Geneva.
September is also the beginning of the grape harvest season in the nearby Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, no less. As such, it’s the perfect time to take a wine-tasting tour.
Back in town, be sure to visit Lausanne’s Cathédrale Notre-Dame, the Olympic Museum, and the Collection de l'Art Brut, with the old town’s cobbled Place de la Palud the perfect place to grab a coffee and people-watch.
Editor's tip: like the sound of immersing yourself in romantic towns and epic landscapes? You might just love our customizable Switzerland itineraries.
Where to stay: looking to splash out on someplace special? Beau-Rivage Palace — Lausanne’s top hotel, and one of the finest in Switzerland — is set in ten-acres of waterside gardens.
We also rate the elegant Angleterre & Residence. It occupies four eighteenth-century mansions on the Ouchy waterfront, including the one in which Byron is said to have written The Prisoner of Chillon.
Paraty, Brazil © LucVi/Shutterstock
Why visit: crowd-free culture and nature
Temperature: 64°F to 81°F (18°C to 27°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200
September sees the weather in Brazil transition to spring. While you can expect some rain in Paraty, it’s a good month to visit this charming town if you’re keen to avoid peak season crowds (and costs).
Take your time exploring Paraty’s Centro Histórico — a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s esteemed for its well-preserved colonial architecture and charming squares that play host to beautiful boutiques, galleries, and cozy cafes.
You’ll also want to enjoy a scenic boat tour around the Bay of Paraty, many of which offer opportunities to visit beaches and islands.
Also note that Paraty is surrounded by lush rainforest, with National Park trails encompassing sparkling waterfalls, natural pools and secluded beaches.
Editor’s tip: Feeling inspired? Our Brazil itineraries include Paraty and Iguacu.
Where to stay: located next to the pier, in the heart of Paraty’s historic center, Casa Turquesa offers beautifully furnished suites close to beaches.
We also rate the more affordable Selina Paraty. Located along the Perequê River, the gardens are gorgeous and there's an outdoor pool.
Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna © Shutterstock
Why visit: post-peak season sightseeing and art events
Temperature: 54°F to 70°F (12°C to 21°C)
Average daily budget: $150-$250
Conjuring images of romance, culture, schnitzel, strudel and a whole lot of kuchen, September offers the ideal weather for exploring Vienna during a month that’s as rich in art events as said kuchen are with cream.
From the Calle Libre festival — which sees street artists create giant works of on the sides of buildings — to the Art Vienna Fair and Vienna Art Park, you really will be spoiled for choice.
Where to stay: located a few steps from St. Peter's Catholic Church, Rosewood Vienna oozes 5-star style.
On a budget? Head to Hostel Vienna Ruthersteiner. Looking for more options? Explore our detailed guide to the best places to stay in Vienna.
Still undecided? You’ll find more ideas in our month-by-month guide to where to go when.
You might also want to make use of our trip ideas platform.
written by
Joanne Owen
updated 30.07.2024
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