While everyone else is settling back into routines, savvy travelers head out to explore the globe at its most inviting. Prices drop dramatically, busy streets become peaceful strolls, and even the weather cooperates with near-perfect conditions almost everywhere.
From exploring Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast to experiencing the quiet charm of Greece or embarking on a thrilling safari in South Africa, September travel allows you to experience some of the world's most sought-after destinations at their absolute best—without the high costs or heavy crowds.
In this article, you’ll discover exactly why September travel beats any other month hands down, along with the 15 absolute best destinations to visit this time of year, complete with insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
September is arguably the most underrated month for travel—and for good reason. Experienced travelers have long recognized it as the ideal time to journey around the globe, enjoying exceptional advantages not available during peak summer or the chillier months later in the year. Here’s why September stands out as an exceptional choice:
Traveling in September is financially savvy. Airlines, hotels, and tour operators typically reduce their prices after the summer rush, which means that you get to enjoy high-quality experiences at reduced rates.
September sees a marked decline in tourist numbers, which significantly improves your travel experience. Iconic landmarks and sought-after destinations—usually overwhelmed during peak months—become far more enjoyable, accessible, and serene. You’ll have ample space to appreciate sites at your leisure, without the inconvenience of long queues or crowded streets.
September offers near-perfect weather conditions across many popular destinations worldwide. European cities maintain comfortably warm temperatures perfect for outdoor dining, leisurely strolls, and sightseeing, while tropical destinations enjoy dry, sunny days without summer's extreme humidity. Meanwhile, southern hemisphere destinations like South Africa or New Zealand experience pleasant, mild spring conditions.
Whether you’re attending Oktoberfest in Munich, the grape harvest festivals of Tuscany and Portugal, or local celebrations in cities like Barcelona, you’ll experience deeper cultural immersion. These authentic events provide unique insights into local traditions and lifestyle, transforming a simple vacation into an enriching cultural journey.
With fewer travelers on the road, hotels, restaurants, and local guides are more attentive and responsive, offering personalized services and recommendations. The heightened quality of customer service you’ll experience makes every interaction more meaningful and your trip genuinely memorable.
Traveling in September naturally encourages a more relaxed pace. Without peak-season pressures, you can enjoy destinations more thoughtfully and thoroughly. The opportunity for meaningful exploration is greater, allowing for a genuinely rewarding travel experience, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The Amalfi Coast is best visited in September when the summer tourists thin out, and the local atmosphere returns. Towns like Positano and Amalfi are calmer, meaning you won’t struggle for parking or dinner reservations.
It's warm enough to swim, but also comfortable enough for exploring hillside trails like the famous Path of the Gods. To avoid high roaming charges in Italy, get an Italy-specific eSIM beforehand or check out our guide on activating your eSIM if it's your first time using one.
Santorini is best experienced in September when the peak-season crowds thin out, but the skies remain perfectly clear. It’s a much calmer time to explore popular spots like Oia, making those famous sunset views far more enjoyable.
The island’s wineries are also worth a visit during this month, as Santorini’s volcanic soil creates unique wines you won’t find anywhere else. To learn more about why September could be the best time to visit Greece or for additional tips on planning your trip, check out our detailed Greece itinerary.
Barcelona in September is all about La Mercè Festival, a lively celebration featuring street parades and free outdoor concerts—a true local favorite that many travelers overlook. With mild weather, it’s also a great time to visit iconic Gaudí landmarks such as the Sagrada Família or take a leisurely stroll through the colorful stalls of La Boqueria market.
Travelers can uncover more hidden gems in our guide to the 10 most beautiful places in Spain or explore lesser-known local secrets with our collection of fun facts about Spain that you probably didn't know.
Bali hits peak dry season in September, making outdoor adventures like temple visits in Ubud, surfing in Canggu, or exploring rice terraces particularly enjoyable. Accommodation and tours also tend to become more affordable during this month, allowing you to get better value from your visit.
To avoid unreliable WiFi and roaming hassles, it’s wise to secure the best eSIM for Bali or choose from other options featured in our detailed guide on the best SIM cards for Indonesia.
September is one of the best times to visit Cairo—temperatures start to cool down after the summer heat, making it much more comfortable to explore the city's iconic sites. You can visit the pyramids of Giza without the intense sun or crowds, and stroll through the colorful chaos of markets like Khan El-Khalili.
Since the peak tourist season hasn’t kicked in yet, everything from hotels to tours feels more relaxed and accessible. To stay connected throughout your trip, check out the best eSIM for Egypt or explore your options with top-rated SIM cards for Egypt—so you’re sorted from the moment you land.
Lisbon is particularly enjoyable in September, as temperatures are comfortably warm but no longer scorching—perfect for climbing its iconic hills and exploring charming neighborhoods like Alfama or Bairro Alto on foot.
This month brings fewer tourists, shorter lines at popular spots such as Belém Tower, and more relaxed outdoor dining at lively cafés in Praça do Comércio. It’s also an excellent time to take day trips to nearby Sintra or Cascais without battling summer crowds.
Mostar shines in September, as summer's intense heat gives way to pleasant days just right for strolling the city's cobblestone streets and crossing the iconic Stari Most bridge. With fewer tourists around, you'll experience the city's cafés, markets, and Ottoman-era architecture at a relaxed pace.
It's also an ideal month for day trips into the surrounding countryside, including visits to Blagaj Tekija or the waterfalls of Kravica. To make sure you remain connected during your travels, consider using an international eSIM or carrying a reliable pocket WiFi, especially handy for exploring beyond the city limits.
Dubrovnik is especially appealing in September, when intense summer crowds fade and the Adriatic Sea remains comfortably warm for swimming, kayaking, and island hopping. It’s an excellent time to explore Dubrovnik’s historic walls, wander leisurely through the Old Town, or relax on beaches such as Banje or Sveti Jakov without having to compete for space. September also offers perfect conditions for day trips to nearby islands like Lokrum, Mljet, or the Elaphiti archipelago—ideal additions to your Croatia itinerary.
Antalya is fantastic in September, as the sizzling summer heat eases into pleasantly warm days, great for enjoying its beaches and exploring ancient ruins like Aspendos and Perge comfortably.
The Mediterranean Sea stays warm enough for swimming throughout the month, making beaches like Konyaaltı and Lara ideal spots for relaxation. You’ll also find fewer crowds in the Old Town (Kaleiçi), allowing you to fully appreciate local cuisine, markets, and architecture without feeling rushed.
Marrakech is especially inviting in September, as the intense summer heat begins to fade, giving way to pleasant, travel-friendly days made for exploring its vibrant souks and historic landmarks like Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the Bahia Palace.
It’s an excellent time to experience the city’s gardens, such as Jardin Majorelle, without feeling overwhelmed by high temperatures. Day trips to the nearby Atlas Mountains or the desert city of Ouarzazate also become more enjoyable. To make the most of your trip, consider checking our guide on the best time to visit Morocco.
Cape Town is at its finest in September, as spring brings mild weather ideal for hiking Table Mountain, exploring Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, or strolling the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It’s also peak whale-watching season along the nearby coast, especially in Hermanus, just a short day trip away.
Also, the famous wildflowers bloom across the Western Cape during this time, offering spectacular scenery. To stay connected without racking up roaming fees, check out our guide on the best eSIM for South Africa or explore your options for the most convenient SIM cards.
Queenstown is the top spot in New Zealand come September, as spring brings milder weather and fewer visitors, making outdoor adventures ideal. This is the month when trails around Lake Wakatipu and nearby Milford Sound become accessible and less crowded, offering spectacular views of blooming wildflowers and snow-capped peaks.
It’s good to know that New Zealand uses Type I plugs, the same as Australia, so bring an adapter if your devices don’t match—our Australia plug types guide covers everything you need. Mobile coverage can be limited in remote areas, so it’s smart to set up your data in advance—compare the best eSIMs for New Zealand or check out the best local SIM card options to stay connected.
Edinburgh is particularly enjoyable in September, as summer crowds dissipate, making it easier to experience the city's historic charm at your own pace. It’s the perfect time to explore Edinburgh Castle, wander down the Royal Mile, or hike up Arthur’s Seat for stunning panoramic views without the busy summer tourist rush.
September also provides ideal conditions for day trips to nearby regions like the Scottish Highlands, where early autumn colors are already showing vividly. To stay reliably connected, consider picking up a convenient European eSIM or explore options for affordable data roaming packages.
Kyoto is especially rewarding in September, when the summer humidity drops and the weather turns mild—ideal for visiting landmarks like Kinkaku-ji and traditional gardens such as Ryoan-ji. Tourist crowds thin out, making it easier to enjoy the historic atmosphere of neighborhoods like Gion and Higashiyama at a slower, more authentic pace.
Before you travel, make sure you're prepared for the local setup—Japan uses Type A plugs, and operates on 100V, which is lower than in most countries. Many travelers are surprised by this, so it’s worth checking out our guide on Japan plug types to avoid charging issues.
The Maasai Mara is extraordinary in September—it's the peak period to witness the Great Migration, one of nature’s most impressive wildlife events. Safari experiences this month are particularly rewarding, with clear skies, cooler temperatures, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including the famous Mara River crossings.
Camps and lodges fill quickly, so booking ahead is essential. To ensure reliable internet during your safari, set up connectivity beforehand—check our guide on eSIM Kenya, so you’re prepared in remote areas.
The Amalfi Coast in Italy, Santorini in Greece, and Cape Town in South Africa consistently rank among the best September destinations. These spots combine ideal weather, fewer tourists, and unique seasonal experiences, from exploring Italy’s quieter coastal towns to witnessing whales off South Africa's shores.
Italy tops the list for September travel, delivering perfect conditions across its iconic destinations. Whether you’re wine tasting in Tuscany, hiking coastal trails near Positano, or exploring historic Rome without summer crowds, Italy provides a blend of culture, scenery, and affordability that’s unmatched this time of year.
September in Europe is especially rewarding in Portugal, Spain, and Scotland. Lisbon’s vibrant city life, Barcelona’s colorful festivals, and Edinburgh’s picturesque autumn landscapes offer visitors authentic experiences in comfortably mild weather, making each an exceptional choice this month.
Bali is unbeatable in September, offering warm, sunny weather calling for beaches, surfing, and exploring lush rice paddies without summer's humidity or peak-season prices. For equally appealing alternatives, consider the Seychelles or the Maldives, both ideal in September for quiet beaches and clear waters.
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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