As the summer draws to a close, there is nothing like a last-minute dash across the continents for some top up of sunshine glow before the autumn colours start to appear in the city. These are some of our favourite holiday destinations to travel to in September.
In our experience, September is such a great time to travel when everyone is back at work and kids are back in school. The temperatures are still mild, the sea is a nice shade of blue hue, but yet the beaches are less crowded, and the cities are more civilised.
Santorini
An island that needs no explanation of the golden sunset paving layer of hues across the city of Oia. The painted blue rooftops of its hillside towns make a beautiful backdrop to the warm sea breeze below. The temperature is very pleasant and locals will tell you that you arrived at their favourite time of the year!
Barcelona
In August, Spanish locals rush out of the cities across the country to hide away from the 30+ degrees heat. You’ll find that when you are visiting in September, the city is still in a happy mood as everyone is enjoying the last days of summer by eating out and going to the beach. The temperature will be around 25-28C, dropping to a pleasant 18C at night.
New York
Being a New Yorker myself, I love this city as always. But one time of the year I love the most is September. The humidity drops to a bearable level and the summer heat in the city subsided. There is a refreshed feeling of autumn with new possibilities. This is also a great time to hop over to Hamptons in Long Island and catch up with the city dwellers in their seaside beach houses.
Ibiza and Formentera
For those who love Ibiza for its alternative hippy vibe on the quieter side of the island, September is a great time to visit when the crowds have gone back to the mainland. There are more rooms for your towel on the powdery sandy beach or stretch out in the yoga pose of your choice. In Formentera, you can walk to a beach restaurant without booking, which would be impossible just a few weeks earlier.
Budapest
Stay in Buda and party in Pest? The choice is yours to make, but in our experience, Pest was definitely the more vibrant areas of the town, as the two sections were separated by the Danube river in between. September is a romantic time in this romantic city, perfect for a couple weekend getaway. Spend your evenings drinking cocktails outdoors with the young crowds, and spend the day relaxing in the thermal baths served on the side with a sweet warming strudel in the local cafe.
Zimbabwe
Fancy a little bit of wildlife watching? Safari in Zimbabwe is the perfect one for the list in September. As the water level diminishes with rising temperature, you’ll have a better chance of spotting wildlife getting hydrated across the safari. Despite being the popular season here, this destination will never be too crowded.
The Cotswolds
Back in leafy England, the Cotswold is one for those who would like a break and experience cottage living. Honey-coloured stone buildings have years of history before them, and we like staying in the quaint little country house hotels for a much needed weekend holiday. Local in-season produce will help to bring out the wonderful flavours in the best restaurants in town.
Milan
The fashion capital of Italy is the place to be if you are after a trendy city break at this time of year. Top up on the new season wardrobe in the exclusive boutiques of Quadrilatero, or eat in fashionable restaurants in artistic Brera. Find some of our favourite spots here: best restaurants in Milan.
Sicily
There might still be a small heatwave in Sicily, given that it is Italy’s sunniest island all year around. Walk around the winding streets of Modica and wrap yourself in its enchanting beauty. Book a room in one of the boutique hotels around the island and enjoy the in-season rich produce of juicy fruits and vegetables.
Corfu
Last but not least, this Greek island is known for its forest hills and leafy surroundings. Although many people make their way here in Spring, it’s a lot more comfortable in the warm water by September, so it’s the perfect time to embark on that Greek island paradise.
Where are you inspired to travel to this September? Are there any other destinations that you recommend?
I’m not travelling anywhere this month.. 🙁
Hey Tanja! September is a particularly busy month for a lot of people, what do you have planned on the travel side for the rest of the year? 🙂
a business trip to Italy next month and I’ve got a few ideas for my trips for later but I’ll see:)