Travel Guides

15 Best places to visit in September

If traveling smart matters, then September is your month—perfect weather, less crowded landmarks, and luxury experiences at a fraction of the price.

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Written by Vukasin Petrovic

Updated: Aug 26, 2025
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Best places to visit in September include iconic spots like the Amalfi Coast, Santorini, and Barcelona, along with cultural gems stretching from Morocco to Japan. 

These destinations offer lighter crowds, lower prices, and pleasant weather, making September one of the smartest months to travel.

In this article, you’ll discover 15 top destinations to visit in September, complete with tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Why travel in September

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:

  • Lower costs: Flights, hotels, and tours are usually cheaper after the summer rush.
  • Smaller crowds: Famous sights and busy streets are quieter, so you can explore more comfortably.
  • Great weather: Many destinations have warm, pleasant days without the extremes of peak summer.
  • Local festivals: From Oktoberfest to grape harvests, September is full of cultural celebrations.
  • Better service: With fewer tourists, hotels and guides can offer more personalized attention.
  • Relaxed pace: Enjoy a slower, more thoughtful travel experience without the stress of peak season.

Top 15 places to visit in September

1. Amalfi Coast, Italy

  • Best for: Relaxed coastal charm, scenic hikes, and swimming without summer crowds
  • Temperature in September: ~26 °C (79 °F) high, ~15 °C (59 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Swimming, leisurely village strolls, less-crowded trails such as the Path of the Gods
  • Where to stay:
    • Hotel Santa Caterina (Amalfi): Cliffside 5-star luxury hotel with private beach
    • Le Sirenuse (Positano): Iconic sea-view retreat with outstanding service
    • Palazzo Avino (Ravello): Elegant historic property with Michelin-starred dining

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.

2. Santorini, Greece

  • Best for: Romantic sunsets, caldera views, and wine tastings in peace
  • Temperature in September: ~25 °C (77 °F) high, ~20 °C (68 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Sunset viewing in Oia, vineyard visits, quiet walking through iconic whitewashed villages
  • Where to stay:
    • Perivolas Lifestyle Houses (Oia): Cave-style suites and spa access
    • Mystique (Oia): Cycladic luxury with ocean panoramas
    • Andronis Arcadia (Oia): Modern suites with artful design and local flair

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.

3. Barcelona, Spain

  • Best for: Culture, architecture, festivals, and tapas without summer heat
  • Temperature in September: ~25 °C (77 °F) high, ~19 °C (66 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: La Mercè street festival, Gaudí landmarks, open-air markets
  • Where to stay:
    • Mandarin Oriental: Sophisticated hotel on luxury boulevard
    • Hotel Arts Barcelona: Seafront landmark with rooftop spa
    • The Majestic Hotel & Spa: Elegant, centrally-located classic property

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. 

4. Bali, Indonesia

  • Best for: Dry-season surfing, temple visits, rice-terrace exploration
  • Temperature in September: ~31 °C (88 °F) high, ~22 °C (72 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Beach excursions, Ubud cultural treks, less humid adventures
  • Where to stay:
    • Viceroy Bali (Ubud): Luxury jungle villas with private pools
    • Alila Villas (Uluwatu): Cliffside modern design with sea views
    • The Legian (Seminyak): Beachfront suites with refined service

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.

5. Cairo, Egypt

  • Best for: Cooler and clearer visits to the Pyramids and bazaars
  • Temperature in September: ~34 °C (93 °F) high, ~23 °C (73 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Easy visits to Giza Plateau, less oppressive heat, open-air markets
  • Where to stay:
    • Marriott Mena House (Giza): Historic hotel adjacent to the Pyramids
    • Kempinski Nile Hotel: Riverside elegance in central Cairo
    • Four Seasons at Nile Plaza: Modern luxury with scenic Nile views

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.

6. Lisbon, Portugal

  • Best for: Tram rides, pastel-hued streets, and café culture in mild weather
  • Temperature in September: ~28 °C (82 °F) high, ~17 °C (62 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Historic neighborhoods, relaxed Sintra trips, alfresco cafes
  • Where to stay:
    • Bairro Alto Hotel: Boutique gem with rooftop views
    • Olissippo Lapa Palace: Elegant palace with gardens and pool
    • Memmo Alfama Hotel: Stylish and centrally located

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.

7. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Best for: Ottoman architecture, calm cobblestone streets, and waterfalls
  • Temperature in September: ~28 °C (83 °F) high, ~15 °C (59 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Stari Most bridge walks, Blagaj and Kravica day trips, relaxed city charm
  • Where to stay:
    • Hotel Mepas: Modern with spa and central location
    • Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija: Boutique near Old Bridge
    • Villa Cardak: Family-run guesthouse near historic sites

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.

8. Dubrovnik, Croatia

  • Best for: Historic wall walks, warm sea swims, and quieter old town explorations
  • Temperature in September: ~28 °C (82 °F) high, ~20 °C (68 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Island hopping (Lokrum, Elafiti), kayaking, wall touring without crowds
  • Where to stay:
    • Hotel Excelsior: Waterfront luxury steps from Old Town
    • Hilton Imperial: Elegant historic charm near Pile Gate
    • Hotel Bellevue: Boutique cliffside serenity

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.

9. Antalya, Turkey

  • Best for: Ancient ruins and beaches in balanced heat
  • Temperature in September: ~31 °C (88 °F) high, ~20 °C (68 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Ruins of Aspendos/Perge, Aspendos Opera Festival, decreasing crowd pressure
  • Where to stay:
    • Akra Hotel: Seafront resort with multiple pools
    • Rixos Downtown: Urban luxury blending city and coast
    • Tuvana Hotel: Ottoman-style boutique in historic quarter

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. 

10. Marrakech, Morocco

  • Best for: Souk wandering, palaces, gardens, and fading desert heat
  • Temperature in September: ~33 °C (91 °F) high, ~20 °C (68 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Jemaa el-Fna evenings, Jardin Majorelle, Atlas day trips
  • Where to stay:
    • La Mamounia: Legendary palace gardens and luxury
    • Riad Kniza: Authentic riad with traditional ambiance
    • El Fenn: Vibrant, artsy riad with rooftop pool

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

11. Cape Town, South Africa

  • Best for: Spring wildflowers, whale watching, and iconic hiking
  • Temperature in September: ~19 °C (66 °F) high, ~10 °C (50 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Whale watching in Hermanus, Kirstenbosch blooms, Table Mountain hikes
  • Where to stay:
    • One&Only Cape Town: Waterfront resort with mountain views
    • Mount Nelson Hotel: Elegant and historic “Big Pink”
    • The Silo Hotel: Architectural marvel with panoramic views

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.

12. Queenstown, New Zealand

  • Best for: End-of-ski season thrills and spring scenery
  • Temperature in September: ~11 °C (52 °F) high, ~2 °C (35 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Late skiing (Coronet Peak, Remarkables), lake hikes, Mt. Aspiring views
  • Where to stay:
    • Eichardt’s Private Hotel: Luxe lakeside suites
    • QT Queenstown: Creative boutique style in the heart
    • The Rees Hotel: Spacious lakeside apartments

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.

13. Edinburgh, Scotland

  • Best for: Historic charm, autumn light, and peaceful sightseeing
  • Temperature in September: ~16 °C (61 °F) high, ~9 °C (48 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Doors Open Days in heritage buildings, early Highland leaf color
  • Where to stay:
    • The Balmoral Hotel: Iconic landmark with castle view
    • The Witchery by the Castle: Romantic gothic-style accommodations
    • Tigerlily: Chic boutique in a vibrant city block

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.

14. Kyoto, Japan

  • Best for: Quiet temple visits, mild autumn weather, cultural walks
  • Temperature in September: ~29 °C (84 °F) high, ~20 °C (68 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Moon-viewing festival (Kangetsu-no-Yūbe), serene temple gardens
  • Where to stay:
    • Hoshinoya Kyoto: Riverside luxury with ryokan feel
    • Hotel Granvia Kyoto: Upscale hotel at Kyoto Station
    • Kyoto Hotel Okura: Classic with mountain and river views

Kyoto is especially rewarding in September, when the summer humidity drops and the weather turns mild, making it 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.

15. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

  • Best for: The Great Wildebeest Migration and prime safari weather
  • Temperature in September: ~26 °C (79 °F) high, ~14 °C (57 °F) low
  • September events/attractions: Peak river crossings, dry game drives with clear viewing
  • Where to stay:
    • Angama Mara: Elevated luxury with sweeping views
    • Mahali Mzuri: Premium tented camp by Richard Branson
    • Mara Serena Safari Lodge: Solid family-friendly option near park gate

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.

Top tips for traveling in September

Traveling in September comes with unique advantages—lower prices, lighter crowds, and plenty of seasonal events. To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind.

  • Book flights early for better deals: September is shoulder season in many destinations, which means prices can drop. Booking flights and hotels in advance ensures you lock in the best rates before demand picks up again.
  • Pack for unpredictable weather: September sits between summer and autumn (or winter and spring in the Southern Hemisphere). Layered clothing helps you adapt to temperature swings throughout the day.
  • Take advantage of thinner crowds: With schools back in session in much of the world, major tourist sites are less crowded. This is the perfect month to enjoy landmarks, museums, and outdoor adventures at a slower pace.
  • Check local festivals and events: September is a popular month for cultural celebrations, wine harvests, and food festivals. Researching these ahead of time can help you plan unique experiences that aren’t available year-round.
  • Stay connected with an eSIM: Many September destinations include remote spots or day trips outside major cities. Setting up an eSIM before you travel ensures reliable internet without the hassle of buying local SIM cards on arrival.

Best places to visit in September FAQ

Where is the best place to go in September?

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.

Which country is the best to visit in September?

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.

Where to go in Europe in September?

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.

Where is the best tropical vacation in September?

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.

Vukasin Petrovic is an experienced content specialist and copywriter with expertise in digital marketing, on-page SEO, and inbound lead generation. With a degree in English and a master's in creative writing, he creates compelling content that delivers measurable results for businesses.

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