Top 5 European Destinations to Visit in September
Planning a spontaneous last-minute trip in September? September is a great time to travel around Europe. Many parts of Europe enjoy warm weather, fewer tourists, and lower prices once the peak summer season has ended. In this article, I’l share Top 5 European destinations to visit this September!
1. Greece
By September, the summer crowds have disappeared, but the Greek islands still enjoy sunny days and warm seas. Since spring can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain (and the winter is cold) September is the perfect time to visit Greece.
Whether you choose Santorini, Mykonos, or Naxos, you’ll find a more relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and golden sunsets without the summer rush. Since Santorini is so popular it might still be crowded in some places like the village of Oia, so I recommend visiting alternative villages like the beautiful Imerovigli, where I was on my honeymoon last year.
Travel tip: Book ferries in advance if you’re island-hopping — schedules can be reduced after peak season.
2. Spain
Spain’s summers can be overwhelmingly hot, but in September, the heat is more bearable, making sightseeing and other activities like hiking far more enjoyable. It’s also an excellent time to explore Spanish islands like Ibiza, Mallorca, or Menorca without the intense summer party crowds. On the mainland, cities like Seville, Valencia, and Málaga are still lively but far less packed.
3. Italy
Italy is one of Europe’s most beloved travel destinations, and for good reason. In the summer, it can be packed (so much you feel like a pack of sardines) — but in September, the weather remains pleasant while the crowds thin out. Stroll through Rome’s piazzas, wander Venice’s canals, or explore Tuscany’s countryside under warm autumn light.
Travel tip: Early September is still beach season along the Amalfi Coast and in Sicily!
4. Croatia
September is the last warm month before autumn arrives in Croatia. The Adriatic Sea is still perfect for swimming, and you can enjoy Dubrovnik, Split, and the islands without the (cruise ship) crowds. If you want to extend your trip, September is also a great month for a Balkan road trip — by combining Croatia with Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Travel tip: Ferry connections to the islands may be reduced later in the month, so plan accordingly.
5. Madeira
Madeira, the Portuguese island in the Atlantic, enjoys a mild climate year-round, but September offers the perfect mix of warm beach weather and comfortable conditions for hiking. You can explore lush mountains, walk along scenic levada trails, and still spend afternoons relaxing by the pool or at the beach.
Travel tip: Don’t miss the epic hike to Madeira’s highest mountain, the Pico Ruivo!
Why travel in September?
- Lower prices on flights & accommodation
- Fewer tourists, so easier access to places without crowds
- Pleasant weather across much of Europe
Whether you’re after beaches, culture, or nature, these destinations prove that September is one of the best months to travel in Europe!
