There are so many wonderful destinations to go on holiday in September. With the summer season coming to an end in the Northern Hemisphere, you can visit great places at reduced prices. Alternatively, the Southern Hemisphere summer is just getting started, so you can get in before the peak season.
Soak up local history, taste traditional food and indulge in culture on a great holiday this autumn. And the best part? Late summer tends to be a quieter period to visit most of these countries, with kids back at school and the high season over. Here we take a look at some best places to visit in September 2023.
- Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
- Bordeaux, France
- Bled, Slovenia
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Montreal, Canada
- San Francisco, USA
- Mexico City, Mexico
- Santiago, Chile
- Zimbabwe
- Singapore
- Istanbul, Turkey
Best places to visit in September in Europe
1. Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
- Flight time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Learn more: Palma de Mallorca travel guide
One of the best places for a September holiday in 2023 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. What’s more, there should be slightly fewer tourists to compete with at the island’s top attractions.
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. Here you can enjoy some rest and relaxation on the intimate beach or hop between the upmarket seafront bars.
2. Bordeaux, France
- Flight time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Learn more: Bordeaux travel guide
Bordeaux is one of the best places to visit in September if you’re a major foodie thanks to its surrounding world-class wineries. This month is also when the city plays host to an array of entertaining events. Fancy a party atmosphere? Check out Festival Cadences d’Arcachon, which is an annual dance event including a range of music genres. Le Weekend des Grands Crus also takes place every September and offers wine lovers the chance to taste over 110 types of wine.
The city itself 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 heat during September? Look no further than the Jardin Public: a beautifully serene part of the city offering plenty of shade.
3. Bled, Slovenia
- Flight time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Learn more: Bled travel guide
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 go on holiday 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 still a hub for swimming, boating and water sports during September. Those after a little history and culture should make the journey up to 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 very centre 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
- Flight time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Learn more: Dubrovnik travel guide
If you’re after a mix of sunshine and sightseeing for your September holiday in 2023, 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. Running through most of September, it’s a great time to experience the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra live in action.
5. Belfast, Northern Ireland
- Flight time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Learn more: Belfast travel guide
Belfast is really making a name for itself as a top holiday destination in Northern Ireland. In September, you’ll still be clinging to the Great British summer, so 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
- Flight time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Learn more: Amalfi travel guide
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 having 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.
North American Holiday Destinations in September
7. Montreal, Canada
- Flight time: 7 hours 20 minutes
- Learn more: Montreal travel guide
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
- Flight time: 11 hours
- Learn more: San Francisco travel guide
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. With Labor Day taking place on the first Monday of September, you’ll get the chance to enjoy a range of activities such as festivals, concerts and tours.
If you want to dust off your trainers and get a workout, then why not compete in the annual Bridge To Bridge run which typically takes place at the end of the month? You can choose a 5K or a 12K option, with there being a great after-party at the Marina Green. Here you can enjoy music, beers, food and great company.
Where to Go on Holiday in September in Central America
9. Mexico City, Mexico
- Flight time: 11 hours 25 minutes
- Learn more: Mexico City travel guide
A young, lively and artsy city, Mexico City will surprise you if you’ve not been 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.
Best Places to Visit in September in South America
10. Santiago, Chile
- Flight time: 14 hours 35 minutes
- Learn more: Santiago travel guide
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.
Best Holiday Destinations in September in Africa
11. Zimbabwe
- Flight time: 14+ hours (via Nairobi or Amsterdam)
- Learn more: Zimbabwe travel guide
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.
Best Places to Go on Holiday in September in Asia
12. Singapore
- Flight time: 13 hours
- Learn more: Singapore travel guide
Always wanted to visit Asia’s most space-age city? Make it your September holiday destination in 2023. 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
- Flight time: 3 hours 40 minutes
- Learn more: Istanbul travel guide
Listed under Asia in our list but also part of Europe, Istanbul is a must-visit city for everyone. September makes for a great time to head to this fascinating city, especially as the Contemporary Istanbul art fair takes place towards the end of the month. Boasting great art installations, sculptures and canvases, you can spend hours viewing the region’s most valued works.
Whether you want to walk around the medieval streets, take in authentic Turkish cuisine or head to popular tourist attractions like Hagia Sophia Mosque, 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 Europe and Asian sides.
Feeling inspired to take a trip this September? Why not check out our other travel guides, including tips on the:
