Discover the Best Travel Destinations for September

September marks the ideal time to explore some of the best travel destinations for September. As the summer crowds begin to disperse and the intense heat of summer months wanes, this month offers a unique opportunity to experience popular spots with fewer tourists, enjoy optimal warm weather, and unlock more affordable adventures.

It’s truly the perfect time for a getaway, combining pleasant conditions with smart savings.

Why September is Your Ideal Travel Month

Traveling in September allows you to embrace the advantages of the “shoulder season,” a sweet spot that delivers a more tranquil and cost-effective experience.

Embracing the Shoulder Season: Fewer Crowds & Tranquil Experiences

September signals the transition from the bustling peak season of summer into the serene “shoulder season,” providing a significant drop in summer crowds. This means you can enjoy popular attractions with fewer tourists and shorter lines, leading to a more authentic and engaging travel experience. Imagine exploring iconic landmarks or enjoying sandy beaches without the overwhelming throngs, allowing for a truly tranquil experience.

Enjoying Optimal Weather: Warm Days, Less Humidity

Benefit from the pleasant transition away from intense summer heat. September often brings warm weather and mild weather conditions, with decreasing humidity in many regions. This creates comfortable temperatures ideal for sightseeing and a wide array of outdoor activities, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your chosen destination.

Smart Savings: Unlocking Cheap Flights & Accommodation Deals

Leverage the financial advantages of shoulder season travel. September typically offers a downturn in travel costs, presenting excellent opportunities for cheap flights and more affordable accommodation compared to the peak season of summer. This means your budget can stretch further, opening the door to more experiences or a longer stay.

Top European Getaways in September

Europe in September offers an irresistible blend of lingering warmth and cultural richness, all while providing a more relaxed atmosphere.

Mediterranean Sunshine & Coastal Charm

Experience the enduring warmth of the Mediterranean in late September, perfect for enjoying beautiful sandy beaches and historic sites without the overwhelming summer throngs.

Greek Islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes)

The Greek Islands in September are warm and sunny, with temperatures typically in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. These popular islands boast beautiful beach weather and are noticeably less crowded. This makes it a “best-kept travel secret” for enjoying iconic sunsets and whitewashed villages in Santorini, or the relaxed pace of Crete with its warm seas and uncrowded archaeological sites.

Italy (Amalfi Coast, Sicily, Sardinia, Puglia, Florence, Rome, Venice)

Italy in September offers a mild climate and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring historic sites and enjoying local cuisine. Temperatures in places like Sicily and Puglia can reach around 27°C (81°F). The Amalfi Coast still feels summery, with perfect water for swimming and significantly thinned crowds. Venice, often overcrowded in summer, becomes far more pleasant, and Florence offers pleasant temperatures for marveling at its marble cathedral and Renaissance art.

Spain (Barcelona, Mallorca, Madrid, Seville, Tenerife)

Spain also enjoys warm weather in September, with temperatures in the mid-20s Celsius in cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Mallorca, with temperatures around 29°C (84°F), offers tranquil experiences as summer crowds depart. The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife, boast an average temperature of 74°F (23°C) with highs of 82°F (28°C), providing excellent year-round warm weather and becoming more tranquil in September.

Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split)

The coast of Croatia is lovely and more affordable in September, with fewer crowds. Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is one of the best places to visit after the peak season, with pleasantly warm air and water temperatures. Split is a “steal” in September, offering warm temperatures and low-season deals.

Southern France (Nice, Provence, Corsica)

Southern France, including Nice and Provence, offers beautiful beach weather and fewer crowds in September. Nice enjoys lingering warmth, and Corsica is a great option for finding deals on apartments and villas.

Malta

Known for its medieval fortresses, beaches, and clear seas, Malta has warm and sunny September weather in the mid to high 70s Fahrenheit, with temperatures just below 30°C (86°F).

Albanian Riviera (Vlorë)

The Albanian Riviera, specifically Vlorë, is an underrated and affordable destination with excellent weather and beautiful beaches. Temperatures can reach around 91°F (33°C), with fewer crowds during the shoulder season.

Cyprus

By September, the intense summer heat in Cyprus mellows to a comfortable 34°C (93°F). It’s still bathed in Mediterranean sunshine, offering warm seas and uncrowded resorts.

Culturally Rich European Cities

Explore Europe’s vibrant cities with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed pace.

Athens, Greece

Athens, Greece, experiences balmy temperatures of 82°F (28°C) in September, making it a good time to visit iconic sites like the Acropolis with fewer crowds.

London, UK

London, UK, in September provides a great combination of good, warm weather and smaller crowds, making it easier and potentially cheaper to visit attractions and West End shows.

Brussels, Belgium

Flights to Brussels, Belgium, can offer significant savings (nearly 40% off summer prices) in the fall, providing a cheaper gateway to European exploration.

Galway, Ireland

Galway, Ireland, offers stunning sights and Irish cultural charm, with cooler, more pleasant temperatures in the early fall.

Istanbul & Antalya, Turkey

Istanbul, Turkey, can bring flight deals, making this city, spanning two continents, more accessible. Antalya, a top beach resort area, offers warm seas, clear skies, fewer tourists, and lower prices in September.

Porto, Portugal

Porto, Portugal, with its cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings, is perfect for leisurely exploration. The Ribeira district offers riverfront dining and a lively atmosphere, and the Douro Valley is particularly picturesque during autumn, with vineyards ready for harvest.

Lisbon, Portugal

The hilly streets of Lisbon, Portugal, are much more manageable in the mild weather and sunny conditions of September, allowing you to explore the city without the intense summer heat.

Exploring Europe’s Historic Old Towns

Delve into the charm of Europe’s old town districts, offering a blend of history, culture, and picturesque streets, made even better by fewer crowds in September.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik’s medieval architecture and stunning sea views provide a peaceful and authentic experience, ideal for walking the ancient city walls.

Split, Croatia

Split, steeped in history, offers warm temperatures and dispersed crowds, making exploring Diocletian’s Palace particularly enjoyable.

Florence, Italy

Florence in September is ideal, with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds for visiting its famous marble cathedral and open-air Renaissance galleries.

Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Palermo blends lingering summer warmth with a rich history and vibrant markets, perfect for experiencing authentic Sicilian life.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta, Malta‘s historic capital, offers a delightful blend of warm weather and cultural experiences, with stunning Baroque architecture and panoramic views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Barcelona (Gothic Quarter), Spain

Barcelona offers a balance of lively energy and laid-back charm in September, with its Gothic Quarter being vibrant and less crowded.

Porto, Portugal (Ribeira district)

Porto’s Ribeira district provides riverfront dining and a lively atmosphere, perfect for shoulder season strolls.

Santorini, Greece (Oia, Fira)

The iconic sunsets and whitewashed buildings of Santorini are at their most serene in September, with fewer crowds and warm seas.

Unveiling North American Wonders in September

North America in September provides a diverse range of experiences, from sun-drenched coastlines to vibrant cities and the majestic beauty of national parks.

Coastal Retreats & Autumnal Beauty

Discover North America’s stunning coastlines and charming towns as they transition into early fall, promising pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.

California Coast (San Francisco, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea)

The California Coast in September offers milder temperatures, clearer skies, and fewer crowds for exploring scenic drives and charming towns. San Francisco experiences its warmest month in September, with less fog and lighter tourist traffic, making it one of the best travel destinations for the Golden City. Santa Barbara also enjoys pleasant weather with fewer tourists, and Carmel-by-the-Sea remains warm and sunny.

Florida Panhandle (30A area)

September in the Florida Panhandle (especially the 30A area) means warm weather, less rain, and fewer crowds before the winter “snowbirds” arrive. The beaches are beautiful and the surf is up.

Southern US Charm (Charleston, Savannah, Beaufort, Myrtle Beach, Cape May)

Experience the charm of the Southern US in September. Charleston, South Carolina, offers warm weather with fewer crowds and better prices. Beaufort, South Carolina, is particularly pleasant, while Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, becomes one of the cheapest coastal towns to visit. Cape May, New Jersey, sees hotel rates drop by 30-40% after Labor Day, with the Atlantic Ocean still warm for swimming.

New England (Boston, Vermont)

Late September to early fall is the shoulder season in New England, allowing you to witness the beginning of stunning fall foliage and attend harvest festivals without the summer crowds. Boston is a great starting point for such adventures.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Enjoy Bar Harbor, Maine, and Acadia National Park with fewer crowds and the onset of fall foliage. September brings reduced crowds and pleasant mild weather, ideal for hiking and exploring.

Vancouver, Canada

September is a good time to visit Vancouver, Canada, avoiding summer heat and crowds while still being able to enjoy outdoor activities like exploring Grouse Mountain.

Vibrant Cities & Desert Escapes

Explore North American cities and unique desert landscapes offering favorable conditions in September.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Thanks to its desert climate, Las Vegas, Nevada, still offers warm weather in September with minimal rainfall and mild humidity. Traveling now can mean savings on hotels and easier booking for shows and tours.

Sacramento, California

Sacramento, California, is gaining recognition as a foodie destination, with warm weather continuing into September and various food and wine festivals.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas, offers a mix of local culture, historic sites, and warm weather in September, with fewer tourists and more affordable prices. Evenings are slightly cooler, making outdoor exploration more comfortable.

New York City, USA

New York City, USA, in September is generally considered an excellent time to visit. It offers a balance of comfortable weather, manageable crowds, and the beginnings of fall foliage. New York City is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Statue of Liberty and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.

Premier US National Parks for Fall Exploration

September is a fantastic time to visit US National Parks, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and the emerging beauty of autumn.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in September brings active wildlife viewing opportunities as the elk rut is in full swing. Developing fall foliage adds to the scenic beauty, though visitation has recently seen increased crowds compared to historical September trends. It’s still generally less crowded than peak summer.

Grand Teton National Park

Part of the Yellowstone-Grand Teton Biosphere Area (UNESCO MAB Programme), Grand Teton National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing and vibrant fall foliage in late September. While historically experiencing fewer crowds than July and August, recent years have seen an increase in September visitors, though it remains less busy than peak summer.

Acadia National Park

While not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Acadia National Park in September is known for its fewer crowds and the beginning of spectacular fall foliage. The crisp, pleasant weather is ideal for hiking.

Grand Canyon National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Grand Canyon offers significantly fewer crowds (visitation can drop by as much as 50% compared to summer) and comfortable temperatures for exploring in September, making it a truly breathtaking experience.

Rocky Mountain National Park & Yosemite National Park

These iconic parks also transition beautifully into autumn in September, providing stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities with often fewer crowds.

Ozarks (Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma)

The Ozarks in Missouri, Arkansas, and Oklahoma are magical in September, with early fall colors, seasonal festivals, and warm, less humid weather ideal for hiking and boating.

Exotic Adventures: Asia, Africa, South America, and Oceania in September

Beyond Europe and North America, September unlocks a world of exotic adventures, from tropical paradises to thrilling safaris, often with the benefits of shoulder season travel.

South Pacific Paradise & Spring Blooms

Escape to the South Pacific in September for warm weather, fewer crowds, and idyllic island experiences as many destinations enter their shoulder season.

New Zealand

New Zealand in September is the shoulder season and the start of spring, offering beautiful landscapes, fewer crowds, and unique activities like spring skiing and admiring waterfalls. Temperatures typically range from 15-19°C (59-66°F), providing a comfortable climate to explore its stunning scenery.

Fiji

September is considered one of the best places and times to visit Fiji. It’s within the dry season, providing warm days, cool evenings, and minimal rain, with less humidity than other times of the year, making for idyllic sandy beaches and world-class diving.

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands in September offer lovely, warm, and relatively dry weather, being the tail end of the dry season. You’ll find a good balance of pleasant conditions and smaller crowds.

French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora)

September is a great time to visit French Polynesia, including Tahiti and Bora Bora, with generally dry, bright, and sunny weather. Resorts start to get quieter, and beaches are less busy, offering a more peaceful paradise experience.

Samoa

September falls within Samoa‘s dry season, offering warm weather, less humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and exploring rainforests.

Vanuatu

September is an ideal month to visit Vanuatu, enjoying warm temperatures and comfortable humidity while avoiding large crowds.

Maldives

September is considered the shoulder season in the Maldives, offering warm, tropical weather (averaging 28-30°C / 82-86°F) and fewer crowds, perfect for a serene retreat.

African Safaris & Diverse Landscapes

September is an excellent time for safaris in Africa, offering prime wildlife viewing as animals congregate around diminishing water sources.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Kruger National Park, South Africa, provides optimal wildlife viewing opportunities in September. As the dry season ends and spring begins, animals gather around waterholes, and the sparse vegetation improves visibility. You also benefit from fewer crowds compared to the peak dry months.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Robben Island and the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas. In September, Cape Town enjoys warm weather (18-20°C / 64-68°F) and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to witness wildflower blooms and whale watching.

Southern Africa (Botswana, Tanzania, Masai Mara, Victoria Falls)

September is an excellent month to visit Southern Africa, with dry, warm weather perfect for game spotting in places like Botswana, Tanzania, and Masai Mara in Kenya. Victoria Falls also benefits from these conditions.

Atlas Mountains, Morocco (Marrakech)

The Atlas Mountains, Morocco, including Marrakech, are best places to visit in autumn (September to November) for cooler temperatures, vibrant souks, and historical palaces.

Latin American Cultural Immersion & Nature

Explore the rich cultures and diverse natural landscapes of Latin America, where September can mean good value and unique experiences.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica in September offers fewer crowds, warm weather, and prime wildlife viewing opportunities, including turtle nesting. The Caribbean coast experiences a mini-dry season, making it ideal for beach days. It is home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Area de Conservación Guanacaste and Cocos Island National Park.

Galapagos Islands

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galapagos Islands in September are in their shoulder season with fewer crowds, active marine life, and cooler water temperatures. These temperatures require a wetsuit for swimming and snorkeling but provide excellent visibility for divers.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, Argentina, in September, a shoulder season, offers fewer crowds, warming mild weather, and the blooming of jacaranda trees. It is home to the ESMA Museum and Site of Memory, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico, in September is a shoulder season with warm weather and fewer crowds, despite being part of the rainy season (rain often in brief afternoon showers). It is home to the Historic Centre of Mexico City & Xochimilco and the Central University City Campus of UNAM, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Merida, Mexico

Merida, Mexico, is rich in Mayan history and less crowded than other tourist spots, offering affordable flights and a unique cultural experience.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun, Mexico, offers great value and warm weather in September, with low prices at all-inclusive resorts and less crowded beaches.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico, brings significant savings in September due to lower demand after the summer rush, making accommodations and flights more affordable.

Central America (Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama)

Central America in September is a shoulder season (or “green season”) that brings fewer crowds and generally warm weather. While it’s part of the rainy season, mornings are often sunny, allowing for outdoor activities and revealing lush landscapes. This period also offers cheap flights and lower accommodation costs.

Asia & Middle East Discoveries

Embark on cultural and natural journeys across Asia and the Middle East, often offering fewer crowds and warm weather in September.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali, Indonesia, in September offers a serene retreat with temperatures averaging 30°C (86°F) and low rainfall, meaning fewer crowds. You can enjoy lush rice terraces and beautiful beaches.

Egypt

Egypt cools down slightly in September, with temperatures in the high 80s Fahrenheit, which is more pleasant than the summer months, and fewer visitors.

Turkey (Bodrum Peninsula)

The Bodrum Peninsula in Turkey is lovely and quite affordable in September, with temperatures around 31°C (88°F).

Vietnam (Cao Bang)

September is the low season in places like Cao Bang, Vietnam, offering the chance to explore stunning waterfalls without the typical crowds.

Jordan (The Jordan Trail)

In September, Jordan offers warm weather that is manageable for exploring, allowing you to miss the peak crowds on attractions like The Jordan Trail.

Practical Tips for Planning Your September Trip

To fully maximize your September travel experience, a bit of strategic planning goes a long way.

Securing Cheap Flights for Your September Getaway

To maximize your savings, learn the best time to book cheap flights for September travel. For domestic flights, aim to book 21 to 52 days before your trip (38 days being the cheapest on average). For international travel, look to book between 2 to 8 months in advance, with the sweet spot often being 3 to 5 months prior. Flexibility with dates and destinations is key to finding the best deals after the summer rush. Flying midweek (Tuesday or Wednesday) can also significantly reduce costs compared to weekend travel.

Understanding Rental Car Availability & Pricing

Discover the favorable rental car availability and price trends during the September shoulder season. Demand typically decreases after the summer months, leading to better availability and generally lower prices, making it more affordable to explore your chosen destination with scenic drives. Booking about one month in advance often yields the best rates.

Smart Packing for Shoulder Season Travel

Prepare for varying temperatures by packing layers, ensuring comfort during warm days and cooler evenings. Even in destinations known for warm weather, temperatures can fluctuate in the shoulder season, so versatile clothing is essential for maximizing your outdoor activities.

Making the Most of Fewer Crowds: Strategy & Flexibility

To fully appreciate the tranquility of fewer crowds, plan your days with early starts to beat any lingering tourist surges, and explore less-visited areas. Embrace flexibility in your itinerary; this can lead to unexpected adventures and a more relaxed trip, truly capturing the essence of traveling during the perfect time that September offers.