Where to Travel in September 2026
If you're the kind of traveler who likes the idea of sipping wine at harvest time, enjoying beach weather without the beach crowds, or wandering through historic cities in that golden-hour light that seems to last all day, September might just be your secret weapon.
It’s a shoulder season month that delivers peak experiences without peak chaos. Summer tourists have thinned out, kids are back in school, and the atmosphere shifts into something slower, more local, and far more magical. Europe still feels warm, tropical destinations are dry and dreamy, and many of the world’s most popular places become just a little easier to enjoy.
Even better? September is a sweet spot for booking. You’ll often find better pricing, more hotel availability, and fewer sold-out signs on tours and experiences.
If you’ve been thinking about a trip this fall, here’s your sign. Below, I’m sharing some of the best places to travel in September—including smart swaps for the classics—so you can stretch those summer vibes just a little bit longer.
Europe Destinations
Italian Wine Country
September is grape harvest season in regions like Tuscany and Piedmont, which means vineyard visits, wine festivals, and that dreamy golden light over the rolling hills. The weather is still warm, but cooler than July or August, making it perfect for long countryside lunches and wine tasting tours. Want to go beyond Chianti? Head to Piedmont for bold reds, white truffles, and fewer crowds.
Been to Tuscany? Try Umbria, Italy’s “green heart” is just as picturesque, with medieval hill towns, olive groves, and hearty local cuisine, minus the tourist traffic.
The French Riviera
September on the Côte d’Azur is still sunny and warm, but without the full summer crush. Beach clubs in Antibes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez are calmer, hotel prices start to drop, and even the glitzy seaside restaurants feel a bit more relaxed. It’s also a great time for boat charters and day trips along the coast.
Been to Nice or Cannes? Try Cassis, a smaller fishing village near Marseille that offers crystal-clear calanques and a laid-back, local vibe.
The Greek Islands
Skip the scorching August heat and head to the Cyclades or Ionian islands in September. You’ll still get beach days, warm Aegean waters, and those unforgettable sunset views but ferries, restaurants, and sunset spots are less jam-packed. Santorini and Mykonos are still buzzing, but with a little breathing room.
Been to Santorini? Try Naxos or Paros for a quieter, more authentic take on island life with just as much beauty.
Southern Spain
Cities like Seville, Granada, and Cordoba are finally cooling off after their sweltering summer highs. September brings more manageable temps for exploring Moorish architecture, tapas bars, and historic alleyways. It’s also when locals return from vacation, giving the cities a more “real” feel again.
Been to Seville? Try Jerez de la Frontera, the birthplace of sherry, home to flamenco traditions, and full of understated charm.
The Douro Valley, Portugal
Grape harvest begins in September, turning the Douro into a postcard of fall colors and activity. It's a dream for wine lovers, with small family-run quintas offering tastings and immersive vineyard stays. River cruises are also in full swing, pairing well with Porto or Lisbon on either end of your trip.
Been to Porto? Try staying in a quintas in Pinhão for a more immersive wine country experience, or explore the lesser-known Dão wine region for something new.
Scotland
September is one of the most beautiful months to visit Scotland. The heather is still in bloom, the weather is crisp but often dry, and the crowds have thinned out. It’s a great time for road trips through the Highlands, hiking on the Isle of Skye, or cozying up in a boutique hotel in Edinburgh.
Been to Edinburgh? Try Perthshire or the Cairngorms for misty glens, forest walks, and that cozy countryside atmosphere.
Far-Flung Destinations
Japan
September marks the tail end of summer and the beginning of the fall season in Japan. While the start of the month can still be warm (and occasionally rainy), the second half brings comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and early signs of autumn in the countryside. It’s an excellent time to explore Kyoto’s temples, Tokyo’s neighborhoods, or even begin a food-focused trip through Osaka.
Been to Japan? Head to Taiwan for night markets, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain landscapes — with fewer crowds and a welcoming vibe.
South Africa
Spring begins in the Southern Hemisphere, which means wildflowers bloom across the Western Cape, whales gather off the coast of Hermanus, and safari conditions are ideal in Kruger and private reserves. With clear skies, mild temps, and a mix of adventure and culture, South Africa in September delivers big-time.
Done a South Africa safari? Explore Zambia or Namibia for off-the-beaten-path wildlife encounters and equally epic scenery — minus the tourist traffic.
Morocco
After a scorching summer, temperatures in Morocco start to dip in September, making it much more pleasant for exploring the souks of Marrakech, riding camels in the Sahara, or trekking through the Atlas Mountains. You’ll still get sunny skies, but with cooler evenings — perfect for rooftop dinners and stargazing in the desert.
Fallen in love with Morocco? Try Jordan for ancient wonders, warm hospitality, and soul-stirring desert adventures like Wadi Rum and Petra.
Peru
September falls in the dry season, making it a fantastic time to visit Machu Picchu, hike in the Sacred Valley, or even explore the lesser-known north (think: cloud forests and ancient ruins). The weather is stable, the skies are clear, and the crowds are fewer than peak July/August.
Seen Machu Picchu? Consider Ecuador — think Andean towns, volcano treks, and the Galápagos, all packed into a smaller, more manageable itinerary.
Western Canada
British Columbia and Alberta are absolutely stunning in September. Think crisp mountain air, golden larch trees, and fewer tourists at spots like Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise. Vancouver and Victoria also shine with their mix of nature and culture — ideal for couples who want to pair adventure with boutique hotels and good food.
Explored Banff and Jasper? Drive through Oregon or Washington’s national parks for rugged coastlines, alpine lakes, and charming Pacific Northwest towns.
The Maldives
September falls in the off-season, but savvy travelers can often snag better pricing at top resorts. The weather is a bit more unpredictable (scattered showers are possible), but you’ll often still get plenty of sunshine, warm seas, and fewer people — making it a peaceful, romantic escape for honeymooners or solo travelers who just want to disconnect.
Been to the Maldives? Try French Polynesia in shoulder season or the Seychelles for an equally luxe, castaway vibe.
Why September Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Calendar
If summer slipped by too fast, September is your second chance to make it count, without the crowds or chaos. Think warm, golden evenings. Empty beaches. Vineyard sunsets. And just the right amount of adventure to keep things exciting.
It’s the perfect time for couples craving a slower, more romantic getaway—or for anyone looking to wander a little deeper, soak up more culture, and find space to reconnect (with the world, or just each other).
Shoulder season means more room to breathe, better hotel availability, and fewer lines between you and that bucket-list moment you’ve been dreaming about.
If that sounds like your kind of travel, let’s talk. I’ll help you plan something unforgettable.
