Updated: July 2025

Your easy September travel guide – fun, helpful, and packed with great ideas.

Best places to travel in September? You’re in the right place. September is one of the best times to travel fewer crowds, better prices, and perfect weather in many places around the world. Whether you want a beach, a city, or nature, this guide shows you where to go and why September is the best month to do it.

We’ve included ideas for the best places to visit in September, both in the USA and around the world. These are perfect for couples, solo travelers, families, and anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing, affordable vacation.

1. Santorini, Greece

*”Famous sunsets, fewer people.”

Best places to travel in September definitely include Santorini. September is when this iconic Greek island slows down just enough for you to truly enjoy it. The summer rush is gone, but the weather stays warm and sunny ideal for wandering the white villages of Oia and Fira, dipping into infinity pools, and snapping photos of the deep blue sea.

You can still enjoy fresh seafood by the caldera, hop on a sunset cruise, or relax on the unique black sand beaches without feeling rushed. The sea is calm and warm, so swimming, snorkeling, and boat tours are at their best.

Why visit in September?

• Sunny weather without heat waves
• Cheaper hotels and flights compared to peak season
• Great sunsets and beach time
• Quieter towns and easier reservations

Good for: Couples, solo travelers, photo lovers, foodies, and honeymooners

2. New England, USA

*”Cool air, colorful trees, and apple pie.”

Best places to travel in September USA have to include New England. September marks the beginning of fall, with vibrant foliage starting to appear in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. This is the perfect time for scenic drives along quiet country roads, visiting charming small towns, and enjoying everything from apple picking to cozy bed-and-breakfast stays.

Walk through forests turning red and gold, stop at roadside farm stands, and sip fresh cider as the air turns crisp. It’s also a great time to explore coastal towns like Newport or Cape Cod before the colder months roll in.

Why visit in September?

• Fall colors begin to show, especially in the mountains
• Fewer tourists than October’s peak foliage season
• Warm, sunny days and cool, refreshing nights
• Perfect for scenic drives and weekend escapes

Good for: Nature fans, families, road trippers, couples, photographers

3. Barcelona, Spain

*”Beach and culture with no heat or crowds.”

Best places to travel in September often include Barcelona. This popular Spanish city becomes more relaxed after August. It’s warm but not too hot, and it’s easy to explore both the beaches and the city’s rich culture. You can visit Gaudí’s famous buildings, stroll through the Gothic Quarter, and enjoy seafood by the sea.

September is also festival season don’t miss La Mercè, a huge street party with music, fireworks, and parades. Spend your mornings at the beach, afternoons at museums or markets, and evenings enjoying tapas and sangria in the open air.

Why visit in September?

• Warm weather and less humidity
• Beaches are quieter and cleaner
• Big local festivals and cultural events
• Easier to get restaurant reservations and tour spots

Good for: Food lovers, city travelers, couples, festival fans, history buffs

4. Banff, Canada

*”Mountains, lakes, and fresh air.”

If you love the outdoors, Banff is one of the best places to travel in September. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it offers peaceful hiking trails, beautiful turquoise lakes, and crisp mountain air.

September brings fewer crowds, so it’s easier to enjoy top spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without the summer rush. Larch trees begin turning golden later in the month, making hikes even more stunning. You might also see elk, bears, or mountain goats along the way.

Why visit in September?

• Cool, fresh air ideal for hiking
• Less crowded than summer months
• Golden fall colors in the mountains
• Easier to find hotels and campsites

Good for: Hikers, adventure seekers, photographers, couples, road trippers

5. Hokkaido, Japan

*”Cool, quiet, and full of nature.”

When looking for off-season travel in September, Hokkaido is a peaceful escape. It’s cooler than the rest of Japan and known for wide-open landscapes, flower gardens, and clean cities like Sapporo. You can enjoy hiking trails, mountain views, and fresh seafood without the crowds.

September also brings local food festivals and harvest season. Try grilled corn, melons, and fresh seafood at open-air markets. It’s a great place to slow down, breathe fresh air, and enjoy Japan’s quieter side.

Why visit in September?

• Cool temperatures perfect for exploring
• Fewer crowds than Tokyo or Kyoto
• Beautiful flower parks and mountain paths
• Local food festivals and harvest events

Good for: Nature lovers, foodies, peace seekers, solo travelers, couples

6. Sedona, Arizona, USA

*”Red rocks and cooler walks.”

If you’re searching for the best places to travel in September USA, Sedona is a top choice. With its stunning red rock landscapes, energy vortexes, and clear skies, it’s both beautiful and peaceful.

The summer heat starts to fade in September, making hiking trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge much more enjoyable. It’s also a great time to explore local art galleries, take a jeep tour, or join a yoga retreat surrounded by nature.

Why visit in September?

• Cooler weather perfect for outdoor adventures
• Stunning sunrises and sunsets over red rock formations
• Calmer than summer, but still lively
• Great time for wellness and relaxation trips

Good for: Hikers, outdoor lovers, spiritual travelers, couples, wellness seekers

7. Amalfi Coast, Italy

*”Relax by the sea without the summer crowds.”

Among the best places to travel in September in Europe, the Amalfi Coast stands out. The summer crowds thin out, but the beauty stays. Towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi are still sunny and alive with local charm.

You can take boat rides along the coast, enjoy seafood pastas on cliffside terraces, and stroll through lemon-scented alleys. September also brings wine harvests and food festivals in the region, so it’s a great time to enjoy Italian culture at its tastiest.

Why visit in September?

• Warm days and calm seas
• Easier to find nice hotels with sea views
• Local events, food, and wine harvests
• Less crowded but still full of life

Good for: Couples, food lovers, beach fans, luxury travelers, photographers

8. Cape Town, South Africa

*”Flowers bloom and whales visit.”

Cape Town is one of the best weather destinations in September, offering the start of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. Wildflowers bloom across the Western Cape, and whale watching reaches its peak along the coast in Hermanus.

You can hike Table Mountain in cooler air, drive the stunning Chapman’s Peak coastal road, or explore vineyards in nearby Stellenbosch. Beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay are calm and relaxing without the summer rush.

Why visit in September?

• Whale watching season along the coast
• Blooming flowers in nearby nature reserves
• Lower prices on flights and hotels
• Great for safaris just outside the city

Good for: Nature fans, families, photographers, honeymooners, road trip lovers

9. Istanbul & Cappadocia, Turkey

*”Colorful markets and sunrise balloons.”

Looking for affordable places to travel in September? Turkey offers a perfect mix of history, adventure, and value. Istanbul comes alive with cooler breezes and less crowded bazaars, while Cappadocia’s famous hot air balloons float gently above moon-like landscapes.

You can explore centuries-old mosques, sip Turkish tea along the Bosphorus, and shop for handmade crafts in the Grand Bazaar. In Cappadocia, hike through valleys and sleep in cave hotels for a unique and budget-friendly experience.

Why visit in September?

• Comfortable temperatures for exploring
• Cheaper than peak summer season
• Scenic balloon rides with clear skies
• Delicious food and friendly hospitality

Good for: Culture lovers, budget travelers, explorers, couples, photographers

10. Porto, Portugal

*”Wine, waves, and less spending.”

Porto stands out as one of the best places to travel in September for travelers looking for charm and savings. With fewer tourists than summer, you can wander its hilly streets, cross the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge, and relax along the Douro River.

Enjoy fresh seafood, explore colorful tiled buildings, and take a wine tour through the nearby Douro Valley during harvest season. September weather is mild, making it great for sightseeing on foot.

Why visit in September?

• Perfect for wine lovers – it’s harvest season!
• Less crowded than Lisbon, but just as charming
• Great mix of culture, nature, and food
• Budget-friendly accommodations and dining

Good for: Couples, solo travelers, wine fans, foodies, budget-conscious explorers

Best Places to Travel in September — Final Thoughts

September is a great time to travel. You can enjoy warm weather, fun festivals, and low prices. Whether you want a city break, a beach trip, or a mountain escape, these are the best places to travel in September.

You don’t need to spend a lot, and you won’t fight big crowds. Just pick a spot, pack your bags, and go!

Extra Ideas for September Travel

• Croatia: Nice beaches, fewer tourists
• Scotland: Quiet nature and cozy spots
• Morocco: Desert tours without the heat

FAQ: Best Places to Travel in September

Q: What are the best places to travel in September for warm weather?
A: Santorini, Amalfi Coast, Barcelona, and Cape Town.

Q: What are the best places to visit in September USA?
A: New England, Sedona, and national parks like Yellowstone or Glacier.

Q: Where to go for cheap travel in September?
A: Porto, Istanbul, and Hokkaido are great options.

Q: Is Europe a good idea in September?
A: Yes! Europe in September means good weather and fewer tourists. Try Spain, Portugal, or Italy.

Q: Are there family vacation recommendations for September?
A: Yes! New England, Banff, and Cape Town all offer family fun.

Q: What are some solo travel destinations in September?
A: Try Porto, Santorini, or Japan’s Hokkaido.

Pack light, plan smart, and enjoy your September getaway!