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Best places to visit in September

September is a great time to go travelling abroad! For the northern parts of the world, it falls after the popular summer season. In the south, it’s months before high volumes of tourists travel. Depending on your destination, you’ll be enjoying the comfortable spring or the cooling sensations of autumn. There are cooler days in Africa and South America, warmer days in North America and Europe, or a blend of both in Asia – there’s so much from which you can choose! Travelstart understands how serious you are about getting the most out of your well-deserved holidays. Let us guide you on the best places to visit in September across the world!

Popular High Season Destinations in September

Panoramic view of San Sebastian in the Basque Country, Spain

Spain

September is a fantastic time to explore Spain, with warm weather, slightly fewer crowds and plenty of sunshine along the coast. Enjoy the nightlife of Ibiza, soak up the culture of Madrid, or spend your days discovering historic cities and Mediterranean beaches.

  • Visit La Lonja de la Seda in Valencia
  • Explore the Picasso Museum and Sagrada Familia in Barcelona
  • Discover the museums and lively districts of Malaga
  • Enjoy warm September days of around 26°C

Italy

Italy is especially inviting in early autumn, with warm days, beautiful coastlines and iconic cities waiting to be explored. Spend your September discovering historic landmarks, world-famous cuisine and everything from vibrant city streets to relaxed seaside escapes.

  • Take in the Sistine Chapel and Colosseum in Rome
  • Try traditional oven-baked pizza in Naples
  • Enjoy the fashion, art and culture of Milan
  • Expect pleasant temperatures of around 27°C
Aerial panoramic view of popular resort city Kas in Turkey

Türkiye

With its rich history, spectacular landscapes and famous cuisine, Türkiye is a rewarding destination as summer begins to ease. In September, explore the cultural treasures of Istanbul, discover ancient ruins or enjoy the country’s scenic coastlines and charming towns.

  • Experience a traditional hammam, or Turkish bath
  • Take a hot-air balloon ride in Cappadocia
  • Explore the underground city of Derinkuyu
  • Enjoy warm September temperatures of around 27°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in September

Panorama of  Quiraing mountains sunset at Isle of Skye, Scottish highlands, United Kingdom

Scotland

September is a beautiful time to explore Scotland, with cooler days, changing landscapes and plenty of historic and cultural sights to discover. Wander through atmospheric cities, explore dramatic Highland scenery or slow things down with a cosy pub and a taste of local whisky.

  • Tour Edinburgh Castle and its historic treasures
  • Sip whisky and ale at a traditional Scottish pub
  • Explore the dramatic scenery of the Scottish Highlands
  • Expect cool September days of around 15°C
Saone river in Lyon city at evening,  France

France

France is full of historic landmarks, beautiful architecture, celebrated cuisine and diverse scenery. In September, explore everything from the French Riviera and Loire Valley to the streets of Paris, with warm days and a slightly calmer atmosphere after the peak summer season.

  • Explore the châteaux of the Loire Valley
  • Discover museums, cafés and neighbourhoods in Paris
  • Enjoy French cuisine and local specialities
  • Expect pleasant September temperatures of around 22°C

Portugal

Portugal remains warm and inviting as summer begins to ease, with sunny cities, scenic coastlines and plenty of culture to enjoy. Spend your September wandering through Sintra and Faro, sampling pastéis de nata in Lisbon, sipping Madeira wine in Funchal, or admiring the architecture of Porto.

  • Listen to traditional Fado music
  • Wander through the famous Livraria Lello bookstore
  • Visit the legendary Quinta da Regaleira
  • Enjoy warm September days of around 26°C

Events in September

Italy – Joust of the Saracens

Make sure you’re in Arezzo, Tuscany, during early September to witness this exciting festival. The locals there love hosting the Joust of Saracen (or locally known as Giostra del Saracino). Watch more than 300 participants dress up in historical costume, with those as knights showing off their jousting skills! Before the start of the tournament, enjoy a flag-waving performance before the procession enters the square where the event will take place. Watch Arezzo come alive with the colours, sounds and flavours of the Middle Ages!

weather icon 31°C daytime temperatures

The first Sunday in September

location iconArezzo

Germany – Oktoberfest

Despite the event’s name and that it is famously known for taking place in October, Oktoberfest begins in the last week and a half of September! For all beer lovers, this is a celebration you cannot miss. Get ready to enjoy great beer, top-notch German cuisine, cute gingerbread cookie necklaces, and exciting fair rides. With more than six million people from around the world attending each year, make sure you get to the Theresienwiese festival grounds in Munich as early as you can with your Bavarian garb.

weather icon 18-15°C daytime temperatures

Late-September to early October

location iconMunich

France – Jazz Festival O‘Glass Beaune

Jazz lovers are in for a treat if they’re visiting France in September. Make your way to the town of Beaune in the Burgundy wine-making region, a 1-hour, 40-minute drive north of Lyon. During the last weekend of the month, witness an exciting music festival! Enjoy the variety of entertainment on the street, with high-class vocalists and instrumentalists performing on the last weekend of September. Besides treats for your ears, satisfy your taste buds with delicious local dishes.

weather icon 19°C daytime temperatures

Mid- or late-September

location iconBeaune

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in June to get awesome discounts on your September trip! Are you not ready to travel in September? Book your trip in September and travel in December to get the best deals.

Popular High Season Destinations in September

Namibia

On the Namibian coastline, a cold Atlantic Ocean laps against some of the highest desert dunes in the world. It’s also home to the world’s largest cheetah population, a scattering of German colonial architecture and a semi-buried diamond mining town.

  • Capture sunset snapshots at Dead Vlei
  • Take a camel ride across the Namib Desert dunes
  • Visit Kolmanskop mining town, swallowed by dunes
  • Pack sunscreen and a hat for 20°C days
Beautiful mountain lake Bunyonyi in Uganda

Uganda

Although landlocked, Uganda houses Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria. The “Pearl of Africa”, as remarked by Winston Churchill, is a treasure trove of natural resources, lush national parks, rare animal species and is host to numerous vibrant markets.

  • Buy a Rolex, not a watch, but Ugandan fast food!
  • Stand over the equator in Kayabwe
  • Go gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park
  • A tropical average temperature of 21°C

Madagascar

Made famous by the namesake movie, it’s not just lemurs that put Madagascar on the map. Apart from its exotic flora and fauna, the ‘eighth continent’ has an exquisite coastline of beautiful beaches, a hiking friendly interior and delicious cuisine.

  • Laze on white sand beaches and spot whales
  • Admire “Trees of Life” on Avenue of the Baobabs
  • Traverse limestone karsts of Tsingy de Bemaraha
  • Pack for a pleasant average temperature of 18°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in September

morocco

Morocco

September is a perfect time to visit Morocco, with pleasant weather making way for exploring the medinas of Marrakech, sampling local cuisine in open-air cafes, admiring exquisite architecture and spending time in the varied natural landscape.

  • Eat Moroccan tagine, straight from the fire
  • Spend a day bartering for local crafts at a souk
  • Lose yourself in the maze of a medina
  • Average warm days at 27°C

Ghana

The rich cultural heritage of Ghana is preserved in the castles, museums, artisanal handicrafts, food and folklore of the country formerly known as the Gold Coast. Discover the diverse wildlife at the plentiful national parks across the country.

  • Walk amongst wildlife at Kakum National Park
  • Wander the web of alleyways at Kejetia Market
  • Explore the past at the Cape Coast Castle
  • Average daytime temperature of 25°C
Banana Beach on Principe Island, Sao Tome and Principe, Africa

Sao Tome & Principe

The archipelago duo, Sao Tome & Principe has a history as colourful as the island locale, with untouched beaches, azure water, green forest thickets and volcanic rock. Explore historical sites, colonial architecture and a coffee-loving café culture.

  • Swim and sunbathe at Praia Banana on Principe
  • Hike to the covered crater Lagoa Amelia
  • Visit the island’s cocoa plantations
  • 26°C and humid average weather conditions

Events in September

Ethiopia – Enkutatash

Enkutatash is the New Year’s Day celebrations in Ethiopia. It takes place on Meskerem 1 on the Ethiopian calendar, which is 11 or 12 September according to the Gregorian calendar. It’s one of the perfect times to interact with the locals and celebrate with barbecued corn, New Year’s Eve dinners and New Year’s lunches, coffee ceremonies, dancing and singing, and drinking araki.

weather icon 20°C daytime temperatures

11 or 12 September

location iconEthiopia

Cape Town, South Africa – Street Food Festival

Visit Cape Town during September to enjoy proudly South African street fare, courtesy of some of South Africa’s best street-food vendors. For 10 days, explore a dazzling array of some of the finest food trucks and pop-up stalls in the Cape. Taste some of the famous local dishes, such as thoroughly satisfying Gatsbys, South African-style French fries (slap tjips), and vinegary fish. The Street Food Festival features a launch party to kick off the event, as well as food walks and movie screenings.

weather icon 19°C daytime temperatures

Late-August to mid-September

location iconCape Town

Malawi – Lake of Stars

For three days in late-September, head to Lake Malawi, a 2-hour drive from Lilongwe, for the Lake of Stars festival. The popular event has been taking place since 2004, drawing local and international acts. With an iconic location that may seem straight out of a Mad Max movie and a variety of artists, you simply must not miss out on experiencing the Lake of Stars festival for yourself!

weather icon 29°C daytime temperatures

Last weekend of September

location iconLake Malawi

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in June to get awesome discounts on your September trip! Are you not ready to travel in September? Book your trip in September and travel in December to get the best deals.

Popular High Season Destinations in September

China

Let China amaze you with its snowy landscapes and winter charm. Try skiing in Beijing, eat your way through Guangzhou,visit the temples in Jinjiang, or get lost in the energetic bustle of Shanghai for a classic experience in this legendary country.

  • Go shopping in Hong Kong
  • See the Great Wall of China covered in snow
  • Head to Sanya, the Hawaii of the East
  • Things are going to get a little frosty at 2°C

South Korea

Top of technology, South Korea is famed for adopting new trends and tech. Rich cultural heritage juxtaposes modern city life, where traditional hanok houses dwell alongside high-rises in Seoul, and top fashion flaunts alongside Handbok from times gone by.

  • Try traditional bibimbap, Korean comfort food
  • Embark on a Seoul-wide K-pop pilgrimage
  • Shop for top Korean beauty and fashion
  • Bring warm, waterproof clothes for 19°C average

Japan

September is a rewarding time to explore Japan, with warm weather, vibrant cities and early signs of autumn beginning to appear in some regions. Experience the energy of Osaka, discover the food scene of Fukuoka, or slow things down among the temples and traditional neighbourhoods of Kyoto.

  • Explore the bright lights and neighbourhoods of Tokyo
  • Enjoy ramen and local specialities in Sapporo
  • Ride the scenic Hakone Tozan Railway
  • Expect warm September temperatures of around 27°C in central Japan

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in September

Thailand

Thailand stays lush and vibrant in September, with tropical scenery, lively cities and plenty to enjoy between rain showers. Explore the shopping and street food of Bangkok, experience the atmosphere of Chiang Rai, or head to Phuket for beaches and island adventures.

  • Explore the beautiful Phi Phi Islands
  • Discover the rainforests around Chiang Mai
  • Experience the nightlife of Bangla Road
  • Expect warm September days of around 31°C with frequent tropical showers

Cambodia

More to it than a profusion of beautiful temples, Cambodia’s rich Khmer culture, idyllic islands, beaches and varied landscapes are all draw-cards of this destination in Southeast Asia. Bustling markets by day are replaced by an exciting nightlife.

  • Visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat
  • Buy crustaceans at the Crab Market in Kep
  • Explore the mysterious ‘face temple’ of Bayon
  • Average temperature of 28°C
Sunrise over Himalaya mountains near Pokhara in Nepal

Nepal

Home to the Himalayas and a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Nepal is spectacular for its natural landscape, flora and fauna. Colourful festivals abound, accompanied by unique cuisine and a diverse culture.

  • Sample yomari, a steamed dumpling delicacy
  • Traverse the Annapurna Circuit trek
  • Pay a visit to the birthplace of Buddha at Lumbini
  • An average of 22°C is met by some rain

Events in September

Samoa – Teuila Festival

Head to the capital of Samoa, Apia, in September to enjoy one of the country’s most celebrated annual events. The Teuila Festival lasts for 8 days, from the beginning of the month. Experience fun-filled events, including a Miss Samoa superhero dash, choir performances, cultural tours, exciting games, and dance performances. The festival ends with the Miss Samoa Pageant. A nationally televised event, when a young Samoan woman is crowned as the new Miss Samoa to represent the country for a year.

weather icon 29°C daytime temperatures

The first week of September

location iconApia

Australia – Brisbane Festival

Make sure you’re in Brisbane during September, because that’s when the city comes alive with thrilling entertainment! The Brisbane Festival is well-known for exploding across the city with a splendid program of theatre, music, dance, circus, opera, and the Treasury Brisbane Arcadia and Sunsuper Riverfire. Part of the festivities will treat you to an amazing spectacle: a breath-taking light and laser show on the river. The Brisbane festival lasts for more than 20 days, meaning you’ll have nearly a month of unforgettable fun!

weather icon 23-25°C daytime temperatures

Early to late-September

location iconBrisbane

Singapore – Singapore Grand Prix

If you’re in Singapore around this time of year, you’re in for a treat! The Grand Prix in Singapore is one of the major highlights of the Formula One calendar. Witness a spectacular sensory assault at the Marina Bay Street Circuit. One of the standout features of the race are the track lights that shimmer off the cars as they speed down the straights! The Singapore Grand Prix is one of the toughest events in Formula One and draws out the best drivers in the industry. You’re sure to experience an unforgettable spectacle!

weather icon 31°C daytime temperatures

Mid or late-September

location iconSingapore

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in June to get awesome discounts on your September trip! Are you not ready to travel in September? Book your trip in September and travel in December to get the best deals.

Popular High Season Destinations in September

Canada

Canada’s untouched wilderness ranges from crisp coastline and lakes, to expansive forests housing grizzly bears and maple trees. Hike, mountain bike and zip-line your way through the many national parks, or take in the scenery from aboard a kayak.

  • Taste maple syrup on tour of a syrup farm
  • Try Canada’s national pastime, ice hockey
  • Ski the world-renowned slopes of Whistler
  • Pack a waterproof coat for an 11°C average
Manhattan panorama at sunset aerial view, New York, United States

USA

From theme parks and malls to museums, music and food, the USA boasts a wide array of attractions. The beaches are as well-frequented as the forests, alpine lakes and canyons, which are the ideal place to hike and enjoy the great wilderness of America.

  • Take a leisurely Route 66 road trip
  • Capture photographs of the iconic Grand Canyon
  • Sample American cuisine like hotdogs and apple pie
  • Autumn sees an average temperature of around 20°C

Honduras

Discovered by Christopher Columbus, Honduras is adorned with quiet beaches, colonial architecture, spectacular natural landscapes and biodiversity. Visit nearby Mayan ruins at Copan and regularly indulge in beachside seafood grills.

  • Scuba dive on Roatan and Utila islands
  • Tour Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
  • Try tasty Pollo Chuco and Baleadas
  • Balmy 24°C average temperature

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in September

Mexico

Dotted with ancient ruins and surrealist art, Mexico is a historical treasure trove. Visit the sweeping coastline of Tulum, take Calakmul jungle treks, snorkel and dive off Guadalupe Island, and venture into arid desert all in one destination.

  • Visit the pyramids of Teotihuacán
  • Drink Tequila, eat tacos, tamales and tostadas
  • Watch Lucha Libre wrestling
  • Bring a hat for the 28°C weather

Jamaica

From hiking the Blue Mountains to phosphorescent lagoon dips, Jamaica’s more than its beautiful beaches, reggae music and Jerk Chicken. Visit Portland to dive the Blue Lagoon, bobsled at Mystic Mountain in Ocho Rios or board a bamboo raft in Rio Grande.

  • Go to the Bob Marley museum in Kingston
  • Partake in a Dancehall street dance. Yeah, mon!
  • Sunbathe on Seven Mile Beach
  • Sunny 28°C average temperature

Costa Rica

Apart from just coffee and bananas, Costa Rica is a biodiverse meeting point with volcanoes, hot springs and rainforests to be explored. Take advantage of great weather on the Caribbean coast and sunbathe, swim or snorkel from the pristine beaches.

  • Explore ancient caverns at Venado Caves
  • Scuba dive the Catalinas Islands
  • Spread your wings at the Butterfly Conservatory
  • Average temperature of around 26°C

Events in September

Belize – Independence Day

If you’re in Belize during the two weeks leading up to 21 September, enjoy the celebrations as the locals get ready to celebrate their Independence Day. In this period, watch a variety of colourful festive parades that include eye-catching floats, marching bands, and masses waving the colours of the Belizean flag (red, white and blue). One of the highlights of the day is the Carnaval festivities where hundreds of people in elaborate costumes compete for the title of the Carnaval King and Queen.

weather icon 31°C daytime temperatures

8-21 September

location iconBelize

United States – iHeartRadio

Visit the famous city of Las Vegas for an exciting and vibrant music festival. For two days in late September, a variety of big names make their way to the City of Lights to perform their top hits. Famous names that have featured at iHeartRadio include Justin Timberlake, Jack White, Kelly Clarkson, and Fleetwood Mac. During each performance, watch as the stage comes alive with thousands of spectacular colours. Couple that with great music, and you’ll be sure to experience the thrill that comes with enjoying the iHeartRadio Music Festival.

weather icon 33°C daytime temperatures

Two days in late September

location iconLas Vegas

Canada – Toronto International Film Festival

If you love films, then make sure you’re in Toronto at least for the first half of the month. For ten days, the capital of the Ontario province plays host to an event that has screened as many as 460 movies! Watch award-winning creations, or discover previously unheard-of treasures. Rub shoulders with movie enthusiasts from across the world. The Toronto International Film Festival tends to attract more than 480,000 people annually, so make sure you get to the TIFF Bell Lightbox as early as you can.

weather icon 22-23°C daytime temperatures

Early to mid-September

location iconToronto

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in June to get awesome discounts on your September trip! Are you not ready to travel in September? Book your trip in September and travel in December to get the best deals.

Popular High Season Destinations in September

Green Lagoon (Laguna Verde), Altiplano, Bolivia

Bolivia

The dry season in Bolivia sees mostly blue skies and sunny days, perfect for a cable car tour of La Paz, boat rides on Lake Titicaca in Copacabana, or traversing the distinctive, desolate Salar de Uyuni, or salt flats.

  • Attend the Fiesta de San Roque
  • Trek the Valle de la Luna rock formations
  • Browse the Witches’ Market for herbs and potions
  • Pack for a chilly 7°C average temperature

Paraguay

At the heart of South America, Paraguay enjoys mild weather this month, making way to explore the history and untouched beauty of the country. Walk the streets of Asunción and its colonial architecture or shop and eat at Encarnación waterfront.

  • Purchase textiles and crafts at a local market
  • Drink the herbal concoction, Yerba mate
  • Walk through Jesuit ruins in Trinidad
  • Enjoy an average temperature of 22°C

Peru

Shrouded in mystery and home to some of the most impressive landscapes in the world, a trip to Peru is unforgettable. Explore the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu in Cusco or stroll through the historic streets of Lima for a taste of the local culture.

  • Get an aerial view of the mysterious Nazca Lines
  • Tour the floating islands of Lake Titicaca
  • Get adventurous with Peruvian cuisine
  • The perfect holiday temperatures at 27°C

Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in September

Uruguay

Winter in Uruguay is the perfect time to dip into its northernmost hot springs or discover the colourful, historic Old Town of Colónia del Sacramento, with its vintage cars and colonial architecture. Visit Montevideo around the Plaza Independencia.

  • Savour traditional Uruguayan Chaja cake
  • Walk, fish or dine along La Rambla
  • Watch a Uruguayan Football League game
  • Pack for rain and a 13°C average temperature
Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Brazil

The hint of Spring in Brazil brings an opportunity to spot wildlife in the wetlands of Pantanal, sunbathe on Copacabana beach, explore colonial architecture and baroque churches in Salvador or soak up the atmosphere.

  • Stand under Christ the Redeemer in Rio
  • Eat the national dish, feijoada
  • Surf, socialize and shop in Ipanema
  • High humidity and 22°C average temperature
National Park Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile

Chile

A narrow strip on the edge of South America, Chile is a country of immense natural beauty. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find heaven on earth in Patagonia, while foodies will be delighted by Chilean street food and cuisine in Santiago.

  • Gaze upon the surreal Atacama Desert
  • Experience the arts scene in Valparaiso
  • Visit the strange Moai statues on Easter Island
  • It’s definitely not chilly at 30°C

Events in September

Ecuador – Fiesta de la Mamá Negra

Visit Ecuador during the dry season and be sure to explore the town of Latacunga, especially during late September. Watch a fascinating parade featuring Andean music and several colourful characters, including The Mama Negra, the Captain, the Angel of Star, and many others. The festival is well-known for street dancing as well as amazing firework displays. Don’t miss out on this chance to experience Ecuador’s indigenous culture.

weather icon 19°C daytime temperatures

23-24 September

location iconLatacunga

Peru – Mistura

The largest gastronomic event of the year – in all of Latin America – Mistura is an annual food extravaganza held in early September in Peru’s capital, Lima. The festival attracts both locals and visitors alike, who flock in to savour local delicacies prepared by an array of chefs, from culinary connoisseurs to street vendors. Sample the flavours of Peru, while your eyes settle on the sweeping coastline of Costa Verde as it surrounds you. Be sure to try the classic dish of cuy, or guinea pig!

weather icon 15-20°C daytime temperatures

Dates in September TBA

location iconLima

Chile – Fiestas Patrias and Army Day

Make sure you’re in Chile during September, especially Santiago. 18 September is Fiestas Patrias, when the country celebrates its independence with parades, dancing, colourful costumes and lively music. But the festivities usually begin a whole week before the 18th! The next day is Army Day (short for Day of the Glories of the Army) when all the armed forces display their troops and equipment. Depending on what day Fiestas Patrias falls, sometimes the celebrations in Chile continue well beyond Army Day!

weather icon 18-19°C daytime temperatures

18-19 September

location iconChile

Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather

When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.

Book in June to get awesome discounts on your September trip! Are you not ready to travel in September? Book your trip in September and travel in December to get the best deals.

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