Top 15 Best Places to Travel to in September

Planning a vacation can feel overwhelming. The possibilities are endless, but choosing the best places to travel to in September adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue. September is a magical month—it’s the perfect time to explore destinations around the world.

Fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and excellent travel deals make it an unbeatable time to pack your bags and embark on a journey.

If you want peaceful moments on beautiful beaches or thrilling outdoor adventures, this guide is for you. It will help you find romantic European cities to explore. Use it to discover where to travel in September.

Key Takeaways

• September is a great time for travel due to fewer crowds, lower rates, and mild weather.
• Ideal destinations include Santorini, Napa Valley, Bali, and Mara, Kenya, for diverse experiences.
• September’s shoulder season is a chance for luxury travel at low rates.
• From beach vacations to wildlife safaris, this guide covers the top spots worldwide.

Why September Is the Perfect Time to Travel

There are several reasons why September is the best time to travel around the world.

Advantages of Traveling in September

Here’s a table highlighting the Advantages of Traveling in September:

Top Travel Trends for September 2025

Fall Vacations: September is perfect for beautiful natural scenery. It’s ideal for hiking and outdoor fun activities.

Romantic September Destinations: September is perfect for a romantic couples’ vacation. It has smaller crowds and mild weather.

Off-Season Luxury Travel: September is off-season for luxury destinations. This means lower hotel rates and fewer tourists.

Europe’s Best Places to Visit in September

September is ideal for European travel. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is great, and there’s a sense of adventure. Here are three enticing destinations to explore.

1. Santorini, Greece

• Average Temperature: 24-28°C (75-82°F)

Highlights

• Iconic Blue Domes: The famous blue-domed churches of Oia are the trademark sign of Santorini.
• Crystal-Clear Waters: The water of the island’s beaches is clear. It is perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Crowd-Free Sunsets in Oia: In September, tourist numbers are low. You can experience the breathtaking sunsets of Oia without the crowds.

Key Attractions

• Oia: This location is famous for its stunning sunsets.
• Akrotiri: The ancient Minoan city offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
• Volcanic Islands: You can explore volcanoes on the nearby islands. They offer unique opportunities for exploration.

Things to Do

• Relax at Beachfront Villas
• Explore Akrotiri
• Take a boat tour around volcanic islands.

2. Barcelona, Spain

Average Temperature: 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F)

Spain is one of the best places to visit in September. This month brings a refreshing Mediterranean breeze to Barcelona. It is ideal for outdoor festivals, art exhibitions, and a lively nightlife that blends with the city’s historic charm.

Highlights: Vibrant festivals, open-air cafés, and stunning views of Gaudí’s architecture.

Key Attractions and Tickets

Things to Do

• Explore Sagrada Família
• Stroll down La Rambla.
• Visit Park Güell
• Relax on Barceloneta Beach.

Why It’s Perfect in September: Weather in the mid-70s, fewer crowds, and cultural events.

Read more: The Worst Time to Visit Spain

3. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Average Temperature: 21°C to 25°C (70°F to 77°F)

The weather in September is mild and comfortable. You will find clear skies and a cooling breeze. It’s an ideal time to explore the coastline, enjoy the beaches, and enjoy outdoor activities.

Highlights

• Cliffside Towns: Visit the charming villages of Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi. Explore narrow streets with colorful buildings and sea views.
• Coastal Views: The Amalfi Coast has dramatic cliffs. You can enjoy the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

Must-Do Activities

• Boat Tours: Take a visit to hidden coves and nearby islands, such as Capri.
• Hiking the Path of the Gods: For stunning panoramic views, hike the Sentiero degli Dei.
• Relax on the Beaches: September’s weather is perfect for relaxing on the beaches.

When you are visiting Italy, you can explore many attractions which are must-see. Here are my attraction suggestions and their ticket links:

Asian Best Places to Travel to in September

1. Bali, Indonesia

Average September Temperature: 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F)

Highlights

• Beautiful Beaches: Bali is one of the most famous Asia travel destinations in September for beaches.
• Rice Terraces in Ubud: The stunning Tegallalang Rice Terraces offer peaceful, green views.
• Sacred Temples: Bali has some of the most beautiful temples in the world. Tanah Lot Temple is one of them.

Activities

• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
• Explore Ubud’s rice terraces.
• Unwind at luxurious resorts.

Must-Visit Places

• Uluwatu Temple: An amazing temple with wonderful ocean views.
• Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary: A forest filled with playful monkeys. You will also find ancient temple ruins.
• Seminyak: Famous for its nice resorts, shopping, and beautiful sunset views.

2. Kyoto, Japan

Average September Temperature: 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F)

Highlights

• Historical Temples and Shrines: Kyoto is a city of temples. Some famous temples are Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha.
• Traditional Tea Ceremonies: You can enjoy an authentic experience of traditional Japanese tea.
• Stunning Gardens: Kyoto’s temples have Zen gardens and shrines. They offer a peaceful escape from the busy world.

Activities

• Visit Kinkaku-ji and explore its golden beauty.
• Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
• Cycle around the city and explore hidden gems.

Must-Visit Places

• Gion District: This traditional geisha district is famous September vacation spots. It has wooden houses, tea shops, and historic ambiance.
• Kiyomizu-dera: A famous temple with sweeping views of the city.
• Nijo Castle: Explore this historic castle. It is famous for its “nightingale floors.”

North America’s Top September Getaways

1. Napa Valley, California

Average September Temperature: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)

Visit Get Some Travel Tips for more suggestions on things to do in the USA.

2. Banff National Park, Canada

• Average September Temperature: 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)

Best Features

• Otherworldly Landscapes: Banff is home to beautiful lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
• Outdoor Adventure: You can enjoy hiking, wildlife spotting, or stargazing. It offers many options for outdoor activities.
• Perfect Fall Foliage: The colors of autumn arrive in the park. They are best for photography and exploration.

When to Go: September’s clear skies and cooler temperatures make it a perfect time to visit.

Must-Do Activities

• Explore the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail or the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail for stunning views.
• September is a great time to see elk, deer, and black bears.
• Visit Stargazing at Vermilion Lakes and see the Milky Way.
• Take a scenic drive on the Icefields Parkway.
• Visit Moraine Lake for its shimmering blue waters.

Exotic and Wildlife-Focused Destinations

1. Mara, Kenya

September is a wonderful time to visit the Masai Mara. You can enjoy the sight of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals crossing the Mara River. Kenya is one of the most Affordable September travel destinations.

Luxury Safari Lodges: You can enjoy luxury safari lodges scattered around the reserve. These lodges provide exceptional service.

Must-Do Activities:

• Game Drives: Witness the Great Migration and the spectacular wildlife interactions.
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: Experience the Mara from above as you drift over the plains at sunrise.
• Visit Maasai Villages: Have a look at local culture by visiting a Maasai village. Enjoy their traditions and lifestyles.

2. Milford Sound, New Zealand

September is in the Southern Hemisphere’s spring, offering lush landscapes and crowd-free trails. The weather makes it an excellent time for peaceful outdoor activities.

Waterfalls and Hot Springs: The region’s waterfalls come alive in September due to the spring melt.

Must-Do Activities:

• Take a 4-day hike through New Zealand’s Fiordland.
• Take a boat tour through Milford Sound.
• Kayaking through the still waters of the fjord is a peaceful experience in nature.
• After a day of adventure, relax in the natural hot springs that dot the area, especially around Te Anau.

Both Mara, Kenya, and Milford Sound, New Zealand, are unique and unforgettable in September. They are perfect for wildlife lovers and outdoor fans.

Best Beach Vacations in September

1. Maldives

The Maldives offers best beaches to visit in September. It has white sandy beaches and luxury overwater bungalows for tourists. You’ll still get plenty of sunshine, especially on a private island.

• Average Temperature: 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F)
• Why it is ideal: September is the off-peak season. You will find fewer tourists and more affordable resorts. The weather is warm, with beautiful turquoise waters.
• Outdoor Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, and beach volleyball. Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

2. Adriatic Coast, Croatia

Croatia’s Adriatic Coast has some of the most amazing beaches and charming towns. It is one of the best Warm places to visit in September. The country is a mix of history and nature. Visit in September for warm weather and outdoor adventures.

• Average Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
• Key Highlights: The Adriatic Coast offers a blend of serene beaches and charming coastal towns. This time is perfect for exploring less-crowded destinations.
  • Explore less crowded beaches.
  • Take a boat ride to the islands of Hvar or Korčula.
  • Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at waterfront cafés.
• Outdoor Activities: Swimming, kayaking, island-hopping, and hiking along scenic coastal paths.

Travel Tips: 20 Proven Good Travel Tips for the Best Trip Ever

Best Outdoor Adventures in September

September is an excellent month for outdoor adventures. The weather remains good in many parts of the world, but the crowds have started to thin. Here is a list of some of the best places for outdoor activities, both in the U.S. and globally:

National Parks to Explore in the U.S.

1. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho)

Why September is Great: By September, the summer crowds in Yellowstone start to dissipate. Without crowds, the park offers visitors a peaceful time to explore.

Outdoor Activities:

• Wildlife spotting: Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to spot bison, elk, bears, and wolves.
• Geyser viewing: Don’t miss the iconic Old Faithful, as well as the park’s other geothermal features, like the Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Hiking: Mount Washburn and the Yellowstone River Trail offer stunning views of the park.

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee)

Why September is Great: The Smoky Mountains US travel spots in September. It’s one of the best times to experience the changing colors.

Outdoor Activities:

• Fall foliage: The starting time of September brings hints of color to the leaves at higher elevations. Scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway are fantastic for taking in the vibrant views.
• Hiking: There are numerous trails, including the popular Alum Cave Trail and the strenuous Chimney Tops Trail.
• Wildlife: The park is known for its biodiversity, so explore it.

Outdoor Activities Around the Globe in September

1. Hiking in Crete (Greece)

Why September is Great: The heat of the summer starts to fade in September month. The weather creates perfect conditions for hiking the stunning landscapes of Crete.

Outdoor Activities:

• Samaria Gorge: One of Crete’s most famous hikes. It is 16 km long, which takes you through a magnificent gorge.
• White Mountains (Lefka Ori): These mountains offer a variety of trails. Some trails lead to charming villages; others lead to high-altitude viewpoints.

2. Whale Watching in the Azores (Portugal)

The Azores are a top destination for whale watching. It becomes more special in September when conditions are optimal. Mid-September offers a high chance of spotting different whale species.

Outdoor Activities:

• Whale watching tours: Take a boat tour around the islands to spot sperm whales.
• Scenic hikes: Explore volcanic landscapes and crater lakes on hikes around São Miguel or Pico Island.

3. Stargazing in Namibia’s Deserts

The Namib Desert is renowned for its clear skies and excellent stargazing conditions. September marks the beginning of the dry season. It ensures clear nights with minimal light pollution.

Outdoor Activities:

• Visit locations like the NamibRand Nature Reserve or Sossusvlei.
• During the day, take a safari through the desert to spot wildlife.
• The towering dunes of Sossusvlei are perfect for sandboarding.

Other September Outdoor Adventure Ideas:

• September is a great time to trek in Banff and Jasper National Parks in Canada.
• With beautiful vineyards in France, biking through the Loire Valley is an amazing experience.

If you want to discover more about France, Paris, visit Get Paris Tours.

Tips for Planning a September Trip

Planning a September trip avoids summer crowds and saves money. Good weather lets you enjoy the outdoors, nature, and local culture. Here’s a planning guide:

How to Plan Your Trip for September

1. Book Early: It’s a great idea to book your flights and accommodations ahead of time to find the best deals.
2. Pack smart: Take some layers for different weather conditions. Don’t forget the essentials for outdoor fun!
3. Plan Off-Season Activities: Check out some less-crowded places and local festivals to enjoy the culture.

When is the best time to book?

Best Booking Window: July to October

The period between July and October is best for finding affordable travel packages for your September trip. Many companies give discounts to travelers.

Tip: Book by the end of July for the best deals. Prices may rise in August for popular fall destinations.

Look for Flight Deals and Off-Season Discounts

September is off-season time. You can find significant discounts on flights and accommodations.

Where to Look:

• Flight Deal Websites: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak. Set up alerts for price drops.
• Hotel Deals: Use Airbnb or Booking.com for off-season discounts, especially if you are booking in advance.

FAQ

What are the best places to travel to in September?

Santorini, Napa Valley, Bali, and Mara are wonderful destinations to visit in September. Each offers unique experiences that you’re sure to enjoy.

Where is the weather best in September?

The weather is really nice in the coastal areas of Europe, Southeast Asia, and some parts of the U.S. It’s a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors.

Where should I go for a romantic September trip?

Santorini, Amalfi Coast, and Maldives are perfect for couples seeking romantic getaways.

How can I find affordable September vacation spots?

Consider off-season travel destinations or plan your trip during mid-September for better deals.

Conclusion

September is a wonderful time to discover new places. You can relax on the beaches of Bali or enjoy the breathtaking views in Banff. This month offers a chance to travel when it’s less crowded, making it easier to create special memories.