Best Places to Visit in September: Top Travel Destinations for Perfect Weather
September is one of the best months of the year to travel. The peak summer crowds have thinned, prices often dip, and the weather across much of the world is still gloriously warm — or just beginning to cool into that perfect, comfortable sweet spot. Whether you’re chasing golden beaches in the Mediterranean, autumn colours in North America, springtime safaris in South Africa, or cultural festivals in Asia, September opens up a world of possibilities.
This is the month where you can sip wine straight from the harvest in Tuscany, hike uncrowded trails to Machu Picchu, or dive into the clear waters of the Greek Islands without the summer rush. With fewer tourists and better value, it’s the ideal time to explore both iconic destinations and hidden gems.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit in September for sunshine, culture, and adventure — so you can plan your perfect early autumn getaway.
Greece – Islands and Mainland
September feels like Greece’s secret season. The beaches are still golden, the tavernas alive with music and clinking glasses, but the frenzied summer rush has passed. With ferries running smoothly and the heat dialled back to something more forgiving, it’s a month that lets you slow down, soak in the sunsets, and explore both ancient ruins and quiet island coves at your own pace.
Weather in September
Expect warm, sun-drenched days averaging around 24°C. Athens and the mainland settle into a more comfortable heat, while the Cyclades islands still enjoy brilliant sunshine cooled by gentle breezes. Crete stays hotter for longer, with beach days stretching well into the month, while the Ionian islands benefit from calm seas perfect for sailing. Rain is rare, meaning both city breaks and island escapes are reliably enjoyable.
Why Visit in September
Greece in September blends the vibrancy of summer with the calm of shoulder season. Accommodation is easier to find and often more affordable, yet the atmosphere remains lively. It’s also a month of seasonal richness: vineyards in Crete and the Peloponnese are in harvest, local festivals celebrate food and wine, and hiking trails are more inviting as the oppressive heat eases. For sailors, September brings calmer winds and emptier harbours — making it one of the best times for island-hopping.
Must-Sees
Athens for wandering the Acropolis and ancient neighbourhoods without the peak-season queues.
Santorini, where the sunsets over Oia are just as spectacular, but the cliffs are far less crowded.
Mykonos, still buzzing with nightlife but with space to breathe.
Crete’s beaches and mountain villages, where harvest season adds another layer of culture to the island.
Meteora’s monasteries and the Peloponnese’s ruins, both more atmospheric when explored in the softer September light.
Smaller islands like Naxos, Paros, and Milos, where September brings an authentic, slower pace of life.
Italy – Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast
September in Italy feels like stepping into a postcard. The blazing heat of August eases into something softer, the vineyards of Tuscany burst into harvest, and the Amalfi Coast basks in golden light without the chaos of peak summer. It’s a month when food, wine, and scenery all come together, making it one of the best times of year to experience Italy at its finest.
Weather in September
Across much of Italy, the weather is pleasantly warm, with average daytime temperatures of 20–26°C. Tuscany enjoys clear skies and cooler evenings, perfect for countryside walks or dining al fresco. Along the Amalfi Coast, the sea is still wonderfully warm for swimming, with highs around 25°C. Rain is uncommon early in the month, but occasional showers can arrive later as autumn approaches.
Why Visit in September
Italy’s September is defined by its harvest season. Vineyards in Tuscany are alive with activity, offering opportunities for wine tours, tastings, and festivals. The countryside glows with late-summer colours, while coastal towns from Positano to Ravello feel less crowded but still lively. Lower visitor numbers mean more space at iconic sites such as Florence’s Duomo or Pompeii, and better chances to enjoy authentic local life without the summer rush.
Must-Sees
Tuscany’s vineyards and hill towns such as Siena, Montepulciano, and San Gimignano, alive with grape harvest celebrations.
Florence, where the art galleries and piazzas are easier to explore outside peak season.
The Amalfi Coast, with towns like Positano and Amalfi bathed in golden light, and beaches still open for swimming.
Ravello, famous for its gardens and cliffside views, especially stunning in September’s softer atmosphere.
Day trips to Capri or Ischia, where ferry schedules are reliable but the islands feel calmer.
Japan – Early Autumn Colours
September marks the shift from Japan’s humid summer into the start of autumn, with cooler temperatures and the first hints of fiery foliage in the north. While it’s still a transitional month, it offers travellers a chance to see the country at a quieter pace before the peak autumn leaf-viewing crowds arrive in October and November.
Weather in September
Japan’s climate varies by region. In Tokyo and Kyoto, daytime highs average 26–28°C, with humidity gradually easing as the month progresses. Northern areas such as Hokkaido are cooler, around 20°C, and begin to show the first autumn colours. Typhoon season is technically still active, particularly in the south, but storms are less frequent by late September.
Why Visit in September
This is a month when Japan feels more accessible. Crowds are thinner than in spring or peak autumn, and cultural festivals such as the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri near Osaka bring a burst of local energy. Food lovers will enjoy the arrival of seasonal delicacies such as matsutake mushrooms and sanma (Pacific saury), celebrated in markets and restaurants across the country. For hikers, cooler conditions make trails around Mount Fuji, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps more appealing.
Must-Sees
Kyoto for temples and gardens, with early signs of autumn colour and fewer visitors.
Tokyo, where the city’s energy feels refreshed after the sweltering summer.
Hokkaido for cooler weather, outdoor activities, and the first autumn foliage.
Nikko for hiking trails and shrines set against changing leaves.
Local festivals like Kishiwada Danjiri in Osaka, which bring a uniquely Japanese cultural spectacle.
Morocco – Marrakech and the Sahara
September is when Morocco begins to breathe again after the scorching summer heat. The air cools just enough to make wandering Marrakech’s souks a pleasure, desert trips become more manageable, and the Atlas Mountains welcome hikers back to their trails. It’s a month that combines adventure with culture, offering a colourful gateway into North Africa.
Weather in September
Marrakech averages around 28°C in September, hot but far more bearable than July or August. Evenings are cooler, making rooftop dinners and night markets more comfortable. The Sahara Desert still sees highs above 30°C, but mornings and nights are refreshingly cooler. In the Atlas Mountains, daytime temperatures average 20–22°C, ideal for trekking.
Why Visit in September
Visiting Morocco in September means beating the extreme heat while still enjoying plenty of sunshine. The souks of Marrakech are vibrant but less overwhelming, desert excursions are easier to manage, and mountain treks are far more enjoyable. It’s also a shoulder season month, meaning fewer crowds in popular destinations and better value on riads and tours. Cultural life picks up too, with harvest season bringing fresh produce and lively markets.
Must-Sees
Marrakech for wandering the souks, Jardin Majorelle, and lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square in cooler conditions.
A desert safari into the Sahara, where camel treks and nights under the stars are more comfortable.
The Atlas Mountains for hikes around Imlil and Toubkal National Park.
Coastal cities like Essaouira, with sea breezes and a laid-back vibe.
Fes, where the medina and historic tanneries are easier to explore without the summer heat.
South Africa – Safari Season
September is springtime in South Africa, and it’s one of the best months of the year for wildlife and outdoor adventures. The bush is dry after winter, making animals easier to spot on safari, while coastal regions like the Western Cape bloom with wildflowers. From game drives in Kruger to whale watching in Hermanus, September shows off the country’s diversity at its finest.
Weather in September
South Africa’s weather varies by region. In Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, days are warm and dry, averaging 25°C, with cool mornings and evenings. Cape Town sees temperatures of 18–20°C with crisp air and occasional showers. Along the Garden Route, spring brings mild weather perfect for road trips, while Hermanus experiences calm seas ideal for whale watching.
Why Visit in September
This is prime safari season — dry landscapes and thinning vegetation make it easier to spot wildlife, from elephants to big cats. Migrating whales gather along the southern coast, particularly in Hermanus, creating one of the world’s best whale-watching experiences. In Cape Town and the Western Cape, spring flowers transform the landscapes, while vineyards begin to stir with seasonal activity. September also falls before South Africa’s summer crowds, meaning national parks and popular routes feel more relaxed.
Must-Sees
Kruger National Park for game drives in prime wildlife-viewing conditions.
Addo Elephant National Park for one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
Hermanus for world-renowned whale watching.
The Garden Route for scenic drives, adventure activities, and spring wildflowers.
Cape Town, where Table Mountain and the surrounding winelands shine under clear spring skies.
Peru – Machu Picchu and Cusco
September is one of the best months to explore Peru’s Andean heartlands. The dry season is coming to a close, meaning bright skies, warm days, and good trekking conditions, but with fewer crowds than the peak months of July and August. It’s an ideal time to experience both the cultural richness of Cusco and the dramatic landscapes leading to Machu Picchu.
Weather in September
In Cusco and the Sacred Valley, daytime temperatures average 20–22°C, with crisp, cooler nights around 8°C. Rainfall is still light, though occasional showers become more likely towards the end of the month. On the Inca Trail, conditions are excellent for trekking — dry underfoot, clear mountain views, and moderate daytime warmth.
Why Visit in September
September offers a sweet spot for visiting Peru: the trails are less crowded, but the weather remains great for outdoor exploration. Trekking to Machu Picchu is more relaxed without the high-season rush, and accommodation in Cusco and the Sacred Valley is easier to find at better rates. It’s also a time when local festivals take place, showcasing Andean traditions with parades, music, and colourful costumes.
Must-Sees
Machu Picchu, reached by train or via the iconic Inca Trail, with clear mountain views and thinner crowds.
Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, filled with cobblestone streets, markets, and colonial architecture.
The Sacred Valley, home to Ollantaytambo and Pisac, where culture and scenery come together.
Rainbow Mountain, a popular day hike that’s more manageable in September’s mild conditions.
Lake Titicaca for its floating reed islands and traditional communities.
Canada – Rockies and Quebec
September is a magical time to visit Canada, when summer’s warmth lingers but autumn begins to make its mark. The Rockies glow with golden larch trees and crisp mountain air, while Quebec buzzes with festivals and the first hints of autumn colour. It’s a month that combines outdoor adventure with cultural celebration, showcasing Canada’s natural and urban diversity at its best.
Weather in September
In the Canadian Rockies, daytime highs average 15–20°C, with cool evenings perfect for cosy firesides. Early September still feels summery, but by the end of the month, the first dustings of snow can appear on mountain peaks. In Quebec, temperatures hover around 18–22°C, with warm afternoons and fresh evenings. Rain is possible, but the mix of sunshine and crisp air makes it a comfortable month for travel.
Why Visit in September
Canada in September offers the best of both worlds: quieter trails in the Rockies, but still great conditions for hiking and sightseeing; cities like Montreal and Quebec City alive with food and cultural festivals; and the start of leaf-peeping season in eastern Canada. Wildlife is also more active — from elk bugling in Jasper to whale watching in the St. Lawrence River. Fewer tourists compared to July and August mean more space and value, but the landscapes remain just as spectacular.
Must-Sees
Banff and Jasper National Parks for hiking trails, turquoise lakes, and golden autumn foliage.
Lake Louise, still a striking blue before it begins to freeze later in the year.
Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives, glowing with autumn colour.
Montreal for cultural festivals, outdoor terraces, and a lively food scene.
Quebec City for historic streets and the first bursts of fall foliage along the St. Lawrence.
Croatia – Dalmatian Coast
September is one of the best months to enjoy Croatia’s stunning coastline. The Adriatic Sea remains warm and inviting, medieval towns like Dubrovnik and Split feel less crowded, and the islands are alive with just enough energy without the high-summer chaos. It’s the perfect balance for travellers looking for sun, culture, and calm.
Weather in September
Along the Dalmatian Coast, daytime highs average 24–26°C, with sea temperatures around 23°C — perfect for swimming, sailing, and beach days. Rain is rare early in the month but may increase slightly towards the end, particularly inland. Evenings are comfortably mild, ideal for dining al fresco by the water.
Why Visit in September
Croatia in September offers summer without the stress. Ferry schedules still run frequently, making island-hopping easy, but ports and beaches feel more relaxed. Accommodation prices start to dip after peak season, and exploring historic cities like Dubrovnik is far more enjoyable without swarms of cruise-ship crowds. It’s also harvest time in Dalmatia, with vineyards producing wine and olive groves preparing for their busy season.
Must-Sees
Dubrovnik for its Old Town walls and Adriatic views, more peaceful in September’s softer light.
Split for Diocletian’s Palace and a lively waterfront without overwhelming crowds.
Hvar for nightlife with space to breathe and beaches still buzzing.
Korčula, known for its wine and medieval streets, which feel particularly authentic in shoulder season.
Mljet National Park for tranquil lakes, forests, and outdoor adventures.
The Pelješac Peninsula for vineyards, seafood, and laid-back coastal charm.
Bali – End of Dry Season
September is one of the best months to visit Bali, sitting at the tail end of the dry season. Days are sunny and warm, humidity is lower than in the months to come, and the island’s beaches and rice fields are at their most inviting. With peak tourist numbers beginning to fall, it’s the sweet spot for both relaxation and exploration.
Weather in September
Bali enjoys consistent sunshine in September, with daytime highs around 30°C and lower humidity compared to later in the year. Rain is minimal, and seas are calm, making it excellent for diving, snorkelling, and surfing. Evenings are warm, perfect for enjoying open-air dining or beachside sunsets.
Why Visit in September
This is a month where Bali’s charm shines without the intensity of high season. Ubud’s rice terraces are lush and green, cultural festivals continue, and beaches from Seminyak to Uluwatu feel vibrant but less hectic. Outdoor adventures — from hiking Mount Batur at sunrise to exploring waterfalls in the north — are more enjoyable in drier, clearer weather. Accommodation is also easier to secure at better rates compared to July and August.
Must-Sees
Ubud for its rice terraces, temples, and cultural performances.
Seminyak and Canggu for beach clubs, surf, and sunsets.
Uluwatu for dramatic cliffs, temples, and surf breaks.
Mount Batur for an unforgettable sunrise hike.
The Gili Islands and Nusa Penida for snorkelling, diving, and turquoise waters.
Northern Bali waterfalls such as Sekumpul, stunning in September’s steady flow.
Travel Tips for September
Book Around Festivals
September is festival season in many parts of the world, from wine harvests in Italy to cultural celebrations in Japan. These events add incredible depth to your travels, but they also mean accommodation can book out fast. Check local calendars and secure stays early if you want to align your trip with major festivals.
Pack for Changing Seasons
September is a transitional month in both hemispheres. Europe and North America are easing into autumn, while the Southern Hemisphere is warming into spring. Layers are key — light clothes for daytime warmth, but a jacket or jumper for cooler evenings. In tropical destinations, a light raincoat is worth packing just in case.
Take Advantage of Shoulder Season Deals
Flights and accommodation are often cheaper than in July and August, especially in Europe. You’ll also find more flexibility with last-minute bookings, making September a great month for spontaneous trips.
Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely
With more comfortable temperatures, September is ideal for hiking, cycling, and outdoor sightseeing. But in regions like Japan or the Caribbean, keep an eye on weather forecasts for typhoon or storm activity, especially earlier in the month.
Embrace the Local Pace
Shoulder season means you’ll often find destinations less geared towards mass tourism and more in tune with local rhythms. It’s the perfect time to explore neighbourhood restaurants, family-run guesthouses, and community festivals that you might miss in peak summer.
“September is that golden sweet spot in the travel calendar — the month where the world feels wide open, yet somehow calmer. The Mediterranean still basks in sunshine, South America invites trekkers along its ancient trails, safaris in Africa are at their best, and Asia balances culture with comfort. It’s a time when prices drop, crowds ease, and destinations reveal a more authentic rhythm of life.
Whether you’re sipping wine under Tuscan skies, watching whales breach off the coast of South Africa, or catching a quieter sunset in Santorini, September offers travellers the best of both worlds: the energy of summer and the serenity of shoulder season. For those who want to see the world at its most welcoming, this is the month to pack your bags and go.”
