From cheap late-summer escapes in the Northern Hemisphere to pre-peak season getaways further south, here are some of the best places to visit this September.
Want to soak up local history, taste traditional food and indulge in culture on a great holiday this autumn? Late summer is often quieter for travel, as kids return to school and the high season ends. Here I look at some of the best places to holiday in September 2024. Price on your mind? Head to the bottom of the page to see KAYAK’s data-backed picks based on hotel and flight prices, average temperatures and popularity.
Best places to visit in September in Europe
Many of the best places to visit in September are within easy reach of Europe, making it a brilliant time to book a budget sunshine getaway. Despite being the first month of autumn, it’s usually still blissfully warm. Plus, the end of the school holidays means fewer crowds and better flight deals.
1. Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
- Learn more: Palma de Mallorca travel guide
- Why visit in September: Almost no rain and fewer people on the beach
One of the best places for a September holiday in 2024 is Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands. With an average of just one day of rainfall throughout the entire month, you’ll be able to enjoy cracking weather that isn’t quite as hot or uncomfortable as July and August. There should be slightly fewer tourists to compete with at the island’s top attractions too.
Spend your mornings exploring the Old Town of Palma, stopping off at quaint cafes and restaurants to shelter from the sun. Then head over to the magnificent cathedral La Seu, which has stood since the 14th century. In the afternoons, take in the spectacular coastline on a walk to Es Molinar: a former fishing neighbourhood in Palma that has kept much of its rustic charm. You can relax there on the intimate beach or hop between the upmarket seafront bars.
2. Bordeaux, France
- Learn more: Bordeaux travel guide
- Why visit in September: Experience local festivals, from dance music to wine-themed extravaganzas
Bordeaux is one of the best places to visit in September if you’re a foodie thanks to its surrounding world-class wineries. September also sees the city host an array of events. Fancy a party atmosphere? Check out Festival Cadences d’Arcachon, an annual dance music festival. Or make the most of the annual European Heritage Days event in the middle of the month when heaps of cultural landmarks – from museums to churches – throw open their doors for free.
Speaking of heritage sites, the city of Bordeaux is an architectural achievement which will reward you at every turn you make. Go on a self-guided walking tour of the city and check out popular attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage site of Place de la Bourse. Alternatively, visit La Cathedrale de Saint Andre, which dates back to the 14th century, for an example of spectacular Gothic architecture. Want to escape the September heat? Look no further than the Jardin Public: a beautifully serene part of the city offering plenty of shade.
3. Bled, Slovenia
- Learn more: Bled travel guide
- Why visit in September: For thrilling water-based adventures
If you’re looking for a brand-new European destination to tick off your bucket list, consider Slovenia. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in September thanks to its pleasant weather and small crowds. The resort town of Bled is a brilliant spot to base yourself for a getaway – especially if you’re craving an exciting outdoor adventure.
Bled sits in the shadow of the Julian Alps, which is crisscrossed with scenic hiking trails, and right on the shores of Lake Bled. One of the most well-known bodies of water in Slovenia, it’s a hub for swimming, boating and water sports during September. If you’re after a little history and culture visit Bled Castle. The 11th-century structure sits on a cliff overlooking the lake and is packed with fascinating exhibits on the area’s past.
A highlight of any September holiday to Bled is visiting the island in the middle of the lake. It’s home to the picture-perfect Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary which features a famous bell tower with an intriguing local legend attached to it.
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Learn more: Dubrovnik travel guide
- Why visit in September: For incredible live music at the Dubrovnik International Late Summer Music Festival
If you’re after a mix of sunshine and sightseeing for your September holiday in 2024, Dubrovnik should be on your list. Not only will the crowds have reduced a bit compared to the peak months of July and August, but you’ll get great weather to boot.
With prime conditions to explore the city, a great place to start is the Walls of Dubrovnik. Walking the walls can take in the region of two hours in busier months, but you should be able to do it faster with fewer people around. You’ll also be rewarded with some spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea.
For those who want to soak up an annual festival, look no further than the Dubrovnik International Late Summer Music Festival. Usually hosted throughout September, it’s a great time to experience the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra live in action.
5. Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Learn more: Belfast travel guide
- Why visit in September: Explore the Giant’s Causeway with fewer crowds
Belfast is really making a name for itself as a top holiday destination in Northern Ireland. In September, the weather shouldn’t be a problem. Plus, with a range of great attractions to visit such as the Titanic Belfast Museum and Peace Wall, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the main reasons to visit Belfast during September is to head up the Causeway Coast, without crowds, and enjoy what is arguably one of the most scenic driving routes in this part of the world. It takes just over 30 minutes to reach the coast by car, and it will reward you with a stunningly rugged coastline.
6. Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Learn more: Amalfi travel guide
- Why visit in September: For pleasant temperatures and wonderful ocean swims
It would be hard to talk about where to go on holiday in September and not mention somewhere in Italy. The Amalfi Coast is beautiful throughout the year, with each season offering its own enchantment. However, if you visit in September, you’ll get to enjoy fewer crowds and less intense temperatures. Fear not though: the water is still perfect if you fancy a late summer dip!
Whether you want to take in the region’s remarkable coastline via an Italian road trip, check out picture-perfect towns such as Sorrento or take the opportunity to enjoy Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Another great activity for when you’re on the Amalfi Coast is taking a cruise along the shore, so you can see its colourful houses, rugged coastline and beautiful beaches from another perspective.
Where to go in September: long-haul
If you’re keen to travel a bit further, there are lots of great September holiday destinations further afield. North America is still experiencing the last of its summer sun, while the rainy season is just coming to an end in certain Asian and Central American locations.
7. Montreal, Canada
- Learn more: Montreal travel guide
- Why visit in September: Enjoy the city’s green spaces and viewpoints in balmier weather
One of the best places to visit in September outside of Europe is Montreal as it still has that summer feeling but with far fewer tourists. It’s also beneficial for your wallet, too, as hotel costs start to decrease after the peak season.
With fewer people visiting the tourist attractions, you can roam the roads of the city, absorbing the 18th-century architecture in Vieux-Montreal as you go. Next, stop off at a quaint coffee shop and watch the world go by. Then make the most of the warm weather and relax at Parc du Mont-Royal, which is a beautifully landscaped garden.
With the sun setting at around 18:30 in Montreal during September, the evening is a perfect time to head up to the Montreal Observation Wheel to get a great photo of the panoramic vistas.
8. San Francisco, USA
- Learn more: San Francisco travel guide
- Why visit in September: Tick off some city events, from Labor Day celebrations
San Francisco tends to offer clear blue skies and consistent sun in the month of September, making it a great time to visit. Make sure you take a spare item of clothing out with you, though, as the Bay Area can get extremely windy and catch many tourists off guard.
Wind aside, there’s plenty to enjoy in September in this great city. As well as all the usual city hot spots – from Golden Gate Bridge to the Painted Ladies – you’ll also find the city comes alive with Labor Day celebrations on the first Monday of September. Time your trip right and you’ll get the chance to enjoy a range of activities, including festivals and concerts, around the city.
In 2024, Labor Day events are set to include several San Francisco Giants games, performances from Jeff Lynne’s Electric Light Orchestra and the Sausalito Art Festival just over Golden Gate Bridge. A wine lover? September is also a prime time to visit the Napa Valley vineyards for a tasting session.
9. Mexico City, Mexico
- Learn more: Mexico City travel guide
- Why visit in September: Quiet, low season sightseeing and colourful cultural festivals
A young, lively and artsy city, Mexico City will surprise you if you’ve not visited before. September is a great time to visit as the rainy season is just finishing and tourists are yet to flock back. That being said, you’re unlikely to experience much rain during the day anyway, as it normally rains at night.
Not far from Mexico City, you’ll find Tepoztlan, which hosts the annual Reto al Tepozteco festival in September. Celebrating a fusion of Spanish and indigenous culture, you’ll get to experience authentic Mexican food, traditional dancing and a great firework display.
10. Santiago, Chile
- Learn more: Santiago travel guide
- Why visit in September: Immerse yourself in Fiestas Patrias (Chile’s independence day)
Patagonia may be the number one reason to venture to Chile, but the country’s impressive capital city is also well worth a visit. It’s conveniently one of the best places to visit in September in the South America region, too, thanks to mild yet sunny weather and cheaper flights.
The Chilean capital is a fantastic spot to soak up some local culture and cuisine, especially in September when it plays host to several festivals and events. Look out for colourful flags, fragrant food stalls and lively street parties across the city during Fiestas Patrias: a national holiday celebrating the country’s independence which takes place on the 18th and 19th of September.
11. Zimbabwe
- Learn more: Zimbabwe travel guide
- Why visit in September: Great wildlife spotting with smaller crowds
If it’s a safari you’re after, then Zimbabwe is a no-brainer. With a range of sublime safari lodges to stay in, national parks to visit and friendly locals to welcome you, this has to be one of the best places to visit in September. Add to that the famous Victoria Falls and you’ll be all set for a memorable trip.
Visiting Zimbabwe for a September holiday is perfect for viewing game as the wildlife tends to congregate at watering holes due to the lack of rain. One of the most convenient things about Zimbabwe in September is, even though this is peak season, it’s still not as popular as it should be, so crowds tend to be small.
12. Singapore
- Learn more: Singapore travel guide
- Why visit in September: Sightseeing with almost nil chance of rain
Always wanted to visit Asia’s most space-age city? Make it your September holiday destination in 2024. The modern metropolis sits on the southern edge of the Malay Peninsula and is a great spot for an action-packed city break or a mini breather before tackling the rest of South East Asia.
September is a good time to plan a trip as it’s the very end of the Southwest monsoon season, so there’s little chance of rain and plenty of sunshine. Strolling around the Marina Bay Gardens, with its magnificent supertrees and giant glasshouses, is a must-do. You could also journey up to the SkyPark Observation Deck at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel for epic vistas of the entire city.
Feeling peckish? Don’t skip dining at one of the city’s hawker markets where you’ll be greeted with cheap, tasty bites and an authentic local vibe.
13. Istanbul, Turkey
- Learn more: Istanbul travel guide
- Why visit in September: Comfortable sightseeing and sunset cruising
Part of both Asia and Europe, Istanbul is a must-visit city for everyone. It’s one of the best places to visit in September due to warm yet manageable weather (especially later in the month) that’s perfect for slow wanders around its beautiful medieval streets.
You could also spend a late summer holiday in Turkey‘s best-known city sampling heaps of authentic Turkish cuisine. Plus, with popular tourist attractions like the Hagia Sophia Mosque and Topkapi Palace, there’s something for everyone.
A great experience for children and adults alike is to take a boat tour along the Bosphorus strait which separates Istanbul’s European and Asian sides. Sunset tends to be around 19:30 in September too, making it the perfect month to book a memorable dinner cruise.
14. Durban, South Africa
- Learn more: Durban travel guide
- Why visit in September: Wonderful hiking and seasonal blooms
September may only just be the start of spring in South Africa – but it’s actually one of the best months to visit the coastal city of Durban. Dry, sunny days with average temperatures of 20°C make it ideal for a little beach time. Plus, you’ll be able to witness the city burst into life with the arrival of seasonal blooms in places like Jameson Park and Durban Botanic Gardens.
The pleasant climate in September makes it the ideal time for some hikes in the surrounding countryside. The Valley of a Thousand Hills has a huge network of scenic hikes to suit all abilities. Or why not make your way to North Beach to check out Durban’s famous surf? The city is also a great pick for a more budget-friendly September holiday destination, with hotels averaging out at around £59 per night according to KAYAK data.
15. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Learn more: Ho Chi Minh City travel guide
- Why visit in September: Fewer crowds and some great deals
Another one of the best places to visit in September in Asia is Vietnam’s bustling second city. Ho Chi Minh City (or HCMC) is the gateway to lots of its major attractions – from the fascinating war-era Cu Chi Tunnels to the scenic Mekong Delta.
Nevertheless, HCMC has plenty of its own allures. Soak up some history at the sobering but unmissable War Remnants Museum followed by a stroll past Independence Palace. You could also venture to Ben Thanh Market to barter for colourful souvenirs or check out some of the amazing cafes, restaurants and coffee shops that litter the city centre. My top picks? Secret Garden for a feast with a view, the Running Bean for a refreshing iced Vietnamese coffee, and My Banh Mi for its namesake sandwiches.
While September might sit within southern Vietnam’s rainy season, expect about 340 mm of rain on average, it does mean the city is a little quieter than usual and you can grab a fantastic hotel deal. In fact, average accommodation costs in September sit at just £38 per night, giving you a chunk of spare change to spend on its tempting food scene.
Data-backed picks from KAYAK
If seasonal events aren’t on your wish list, why not consider one of the below destinations? These destinations are based on KAYAK flight and hotel data, taking into account budget, weather, and popularity (so you can avoid the crowds). For personalised recommendations based on your location and chosen destination check out the Best Time to Travel tool.
More travel inspiration for 2024
Feeling inspired to take a trip this year? Why not check out our other travel guides, including tips on the best places to visit in August and the best places to visit in October? KAYAK also has heaps more handy information things like flights and affordable hotel stays in destinations across the globe.
