As the lazy, hazy days of summer end, September emerges as the perfect time for new adventures. Whether you’re seeking a beach getaway, a cultural exploration, or a nature retreat, plenty of destinations around the world offer incredible experiences in September. In this ultimate guide, we have curated a list of the best places to travel in September, considering weather, affordability, and unique experiences. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a memorable journey!
1. Sicily, Italy
- Temperature: 24°C high; 17°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Time difference: BST+1
When it comes to the best places to travel in September, Sicily, Italy, is a top contender. The warm wind that blows across the Mediterranean from Africa keeps Italy’s sunniest, most richly cultured island hot well into autumn. September is the perfect time to visit because the wild and beautiful beaches are never crowded, allowing you to enjoy the enchanting baroque towns and labyrinthine streets fully. The island also offers a culinary paradise, with September being a fine time for fruit and produce from Etna’s rich national park.
Where to stay: At Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, where you can enjoy pool views from all angles and indulge in a romantic dance on the balcony against the backdrop of Mount Etna. For a city break, consider staying in a sleek Palermo apartment within walking distance of iconic spots.
2. The Cotswolds, United Kingdom
- Temperature: 19°C high; 9°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from London: 2 hours 30 minutes by car
- Time difference: BST+0
The Cotswolds in the United Kingdom is often considered one of the loveliest places in the world, and September is the ideal time to experience its true charm. The region’s loveliness wraps itself around you like the early morning mist among the orchards. With its drystone cottages, honeycomb-colored Cotswold stone buildings, and gentle landscapes, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend break. September brings the harvest season, when local produce is at its best, and farmers’ markets offer an abundance of fresh ingredients.
Where to stay: Consider Thyme, an idyllic old Cotswold-stone manor with beautifully renovated barns, or The Stump, a cozy roadside inn turned pizza shack. If you’re traveling with a group, No.6, a converted barn on the edge of the Blenheim Palace Estate, offers a charming and spacious accommodation option.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
- Temperature: 26°C high; 17°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Time difference: BST+0
Lisbon, the vibrant capital city of Portugal, has been gaining popularity in recent years, and September is an excellent time to experience its charms without the crowds. Afternoons can be spent climbing the city’s seven hills in search of the best miradouros (terraces with panoramic views), while evenings offer the opportunity to indulge in Lisbon’s best restaurants and experience the city’s lively nightlife. With fabulous weather and fewer tourists, September is the perfect time to explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods and indulge in its sensational seafood.
Where to stay: Consider The Ivens, one of the best new hotels in the world, or Memmo Alfama, which boasts one of the city’s best rooftop pools. For a budget-friendly stay, The Independente offers charming and affordable accommodations. If you prefer to stay close to the sea, consider a beachfront apartment on Costa da Caparica, one of Lisbon’s best beaches.
4. Galway, Ireland
- Temperature: 17°C high; 10°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Time difference: BST+0
Galway, located on Ireland’s west coast, is a scenic city that offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and delicious seafood. September is an excellent time to visit because it coincides with the Galway International Oyster Festival, a celebration of the native oyster harvest. The festival features parades, the World Oyster Opening Championships, and of course, plenty of oyster tastings. Beyond the festival, Galway offers stunning waterside views, cozy pubs, and super-fresh seafood. The city is also a standard-bearer for farm-to-fork cooking, with many restaurants focusing on local, organic ingredients.
Where to stay: Consider Wild Honey Inn in County Clare, Ireland’s first Michelin-star pub, for a unique and memorable stay.
5. Santorini, Greece
- Temperature: 26°C high; 20°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 4 hours
- Time difference: BST+2
Ask an islander what their favorite month on Santorini is, and they’ll likely tell you September. The boiling, broiling summer rush is over, and the island experiences pleasant temperatures and beautiful blue skies. Santorini’s iconic sunsets paint the town of Oia gold, and the deep blues of the Caldera seem even more vibrant in the late summer days. September is the perfect time to explore the hillside towns, relax on the stunning beaches, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of this Greek island.
Where to stay: Consider Andronis Boutique Hotel for a romantic stay with rooms nestled in the hotel’s traditional cave-style architecture. Families may enjoy The Vasilicos, a boutique hideaway that welcomes children. Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection, offers a white-washed, cliff-side dream with terraces and two pools.
6. Morocco
- Temperature: 33°C high; 19°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Time difference: BST+0
Morocco is a country that saturates the senses and offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. September is an excellent time to visit as the summer sizzle mellows, and both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts remain pleasantly warm. The winter chill has not yet taken hold in the desert and mountainous regions, making it a great time to explore. Morocco is also home to a smart new crop of design hotels, offering stylish and comfortable accommodations for travelers. Whether you’re exploring the chaotic medinas of Marrakech, the mud-wall towns of the High Atlas, or the salty sea air of Essaouira, September is the ideal time to experience the best of Morocco.
Where to stay: Consider La Mamounia or Royal Mansour in Marrakech for a luxurious experience. In Taghazout, Munga Guesthouse offers a boutique stay with a fairylit restaurant. For a cool and modern Moroccan minimalism experience with a rooftop hot tub, Riad Dar Maya in Essaouira is an excellent choice.
7. New York, United States
- Temperature: 25°C high; 16°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 8 hours
- Time difference: BST-5
New York City is a destination that holds a special place in the hearts of many travelers, and September is an ideal time to experience the city’s unique energy and vibrant culture. As summer transitions into autumn, the city comes alive with a new season and a fresh wave of possibilities. The sultry days of August give way to cooler temperatures, making it pleasant to explore the city’s iconic neighborhoods, museums, and parks. September is also a great time to venture beyond the city and embark on a road trip to the scenic Catskill Mountains or the charming Hamptons.
Where to stay: Consider the Ace Hotel in Brooklyn or Pendry Manhattan West in Midtown for trendy and stylish accommodations. Downtown, PUBLIC Hotel and Hotel 50 Bowery offer a buzzing atmosphere and great people-watching opportunities.
8. Ibiza and Formentera, Spain
- Temperature: 27°C high; 19°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Time difference: BST+1
Ibiza and Formentera, the Balearic Islands of Spain, are renowned for their vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. September brings relief for those who have spent the summer season on the islands, as the crowds begin to dissipate. It’s the perfect time to find a spot on the beaches, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront restaurant, and experience the closing parties that mark the end of the clubbing season. The islands offer something for everyone, from breathtaking natural beauty to a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Where to stay: OKU Ibiza, a laid-back luxury retreat with access to the most beautiful beach spots on the island, is an excellent option. For sunbeds and sushi, Nobu Ibiza Bay offers a chic setup. Check out our best hotels in Ibiza guide for more options.
9. Mexico City, Mexico
- Temperature: 24°C high; 12°C low
- Season: wet
- Travel time from UK: 11 hours 25 minutes
- Time difference: BST-7
Mexico City, the vibrant capital of Mexico, has never been cooler. The city’s young and artsy vibe can be felt everywhere, from its colorful cafes to its chic farm-to-table restaurants. September marks the end of the rainy season, which keeps the city short of tourists. By day, you can explore the city’s historic buildings, monuments, and museums, and by night, you can enjoy the lively nightlife in the city’s central district. With pleasant temperatures and a vibrant cultural scene, September is an excellent time to explore the many facets of Mexico City.
Where to stay: Octavia Casa, a seven-room retreat in La Condesa created by fashion designer Roberta Maceda, offers a unique and stylish accommodation option. Circulo Mexicano is another great choice with calming bedrooms and a chilled-out rooftop with a pool and Japanese soaking tub.
10.
- Temperature: 28°C high; 17°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Time difference: BST+2
Corfu, one of Greece’s stunning Ionian Islands, is a perfect destination for September travel. The shoulder seasons, including September, tend to be the most pleasant time to visit Greece and its islands. Corfu offers crystal-clear waters, picturesque landscapes, and a rich history to explore. September is an ideal time to visit as the morning swims in warm waters are delightful, and the island’s forested hills remain green for afternoon relaxation beneath the oaks and olive trees.
Where to stay: Domes Miramare, once the summer mansion of shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, now stands as an adults-only hotel with a private beach. Grecotel Corfu Imperial is a glamorous resort with many rooms and bungalows featuring private pools.
11. Istanbul, Turkey
- Temperature: 25°C high; 17°C low
- Season: autumn
- Travel time from UK: 3 hours 50 minutes
- Time difference: BST+2
Istanbul, the vibrant and culturally diverse city that straddles two continents, is at its best in September. The unbearable summer heat and humidity have ebbed, making it fresh and mild in the East. The high mountains and valley passes are still easily accessible, and virtually all tourist attractions remain open. September is also a great time to explore the city’s trendy neighborhoods, such as Beyoğlu, known for its good times, boutique shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Don’t forget to indulge in the New Anatolian Cuisine at Mikla and experience the vibrant art and design scene.
Where to stay: Soho House Istanbul, set in a 19th-century palace in the city’s coolest district, offers a unique and luxurious stay. For more options, check out our selection of the best hotels in Istanbul.
12. Hermanus, South Africa
- Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low
- Season: spring
- Travel time from UK: 11 hours 30 minutes
- Time difference: BST+2
Hermanus, located less than two hours’ drive from Cape Town, is a picturesque seaside destination known for its incredible land-based whale watching. September marks the peak season for southern right whales breaching close to shore, and the Hermanus Whale Festival celebrates the beginning of the native oyster harvest. Beyond the festival, the town offers stunning cliffside walks, secluded white-sand beaches, and refined countryside restaurants. It’s the perfect time to spot wildlife and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region.
Where to stay: Consider Birkenhead House, a coastal hotel with a pool terrace overlooking the ocean, for a luxurious and relaxing stay.
With this ultimate guide to the best places to travel in September, you have a curated list of destinations that offer unique experiences, beautiful landscapes, and pleasant weather. Whether you’re seeking a cultural adventure in Lisbon, a beach retreat in Santorini, or a wildlife encounter in Hermanus, September is the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable journey. So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to explore the world!
