Those lazy, hazy days of summer may be sliding away, but September might well be the perfect time to enjoy a new travel adventure.
We are first to admit that this summer has not been the ‘one’, but as autumn hits in the UK, going further afield to get some much-needed vitamin D has a certain appeal.
If you are wondering where to go on holiday in September, you will truly be spoilt for choice as there are so many incredible options to choose from.
September is a fantastic time to go away, not only is it ‘shoulder season’ which means that for most tourist destinations they will not be as crowded as they are during those peak summer months which can make for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Whilst a HUGE injection of sunshine is infinitely coveted, September is a great month to travel as you can enjoy the heat without it being too uncomfortable like it can be in the summer months in locations like southern Europe, the Caribbean, or the Middle East.
From exploring the charms of the ‘White Isle’ to admiring the temples of Kyoto, where are the best places to book when considering where to go on holiday in September?
Lisbon
Lisbon is a perennial favourite as a holiday destination all year round, but if you are looking for a fantastic city for where to go on holiday in September, then the Portuguese capital has to be on your hit list.
The brightly-coloured streets, the endless galleries, sensational seafood and vibrant nightlife all go a long way to cement Lisbon’s reputation as one of the coolest cities in the world.
Scooch around the hilly city to find the most incredible miradouros or viewpoints to watch the sunset before you make a beeline for some of Lisbon’s best restaurants and cafes where you can try local dishes like pastel de nata, langoustines, bacalhau and more.
When it comes to nightlife, for those who love to party, night-owls should really make a beeline for Bairro Alto.
The centre of much of the city’s nightlife, there’s a fun, lively atmosphere here after dark and there’s plenty of quirky and uber cool bars to choose from.
However, if you are more about what goes on in the day, then there’s a plethora of galleries, historical buildings and top-notch attractions to enjoy such as the Belem Tower, the Castelo de Sao Jorge, the Monument to the Discoveries and the stunning Jerónimos Monastery.
Make sure you head over to nearby Sintra, a picturesque and enchanting city filled with fairytale palaces such as the colourful Pena Palace, a former summer home for Portuguese royalty.
Marrakech
If warm balmy temperatures are high on your list for where to go on holiday in September, surely Marrakech has to top the list.
September is an ideal time to visit Marrakech as it’s pleasant weather but you will not have to endure the often sweltering temperatures that can be a smidge oppressive.
Chock-full of architectural masterpieces, forgotten tombs, exotic gardens and intoxicating souks.
Marrakech is bursting at the seams with cultural gems just waiting to be explored.
Of course, Marrakech holidays aren’t just about souqs and spices.
It’s about the incredible buildings where you can see a stunning blend of Islamic, Moorish and even Andalusian architecture, the vibrant neighbourhoods with intoxicating smells, the lively nightlife, the mind blowing food and more.
Take a walk around the Gueliz and Kasbah neighbourhoods where you can see top-notch attractions like the stunning Bahia Palace and the lush oasis that is Jardin Majorelle, or if you prefer more exercise, why not head out to trek up parts of the Atlas Mountains.
After all that foot stomping, you will definitely be in the need of a relaxing retreat to the hammam. For travellers in Morocco, nothing is more revitalising than a steam and scrub at a hammam.
There are several to choose from in Marrakech from traditional hamman’s where the locals go to bathe and socialise to more luxury offerings that are largely catered to tourists.
Make sure to indulge in a refreshing glass of mint tea after the hammam where you can embrace your newfound serenity.
Ibiza
Not just an island for party people, Ibiza is one of the best places to consider when thinking of where to go on holiday in September if you are looking for a relaxing wellness getaway.
Whether you are a serious yogi or just want to dip your toes into the proverbial water of wellness retreats, Ibiza can totally deliver on a relaxing break.
Despite it being an island awash with temptation, you can enjoy a more tranquil side to the ‘White Isle’ where you can achieve a zen state of mind and leave Ibiza light as air, but if you are still looking for a slice of excitement, you can enjoy the closing parties of the season at the various clubs, beach bars and more.
Holidaying in Ibiza in September undoubtedly is a great way to showcase Ibiza’s many other charms. This includes its lush scenery such as the magical coves and pine-carpeted hills.
You can also visit pretty villages and shop until you drop at the excellent markets that make the White Isle truly a force to be reckoned with whether you want relaxation, partying or both.
Corfu
You can still enjoy warm temperatures and sunny skies in September on Corfu, but you will find that this Greek island is decidedly less crowded and you won’t necessarily have to jostle for position to take a refreshing dip in the azure Ionian sea.
From the delicious cuisine to the superb diving spots that are scattered throughout the island where you can enjoy an aquatic adventure of your very own.
However, if you prefer to spend your sun-soaked days strictly sandy side up, then you will have a plethora of divine beaches to choose from such as Agios Stefanos and Megas Choros beach.
Corfu is one of the best Greek islands for hiking and it’s a great way to see how diverse and breathtaking the landscape really is.
There’s different walks depending on your fitness level and how long you want your walk to be.
The Vlacherna walk is ideal for beginners and families as it’s only shy of 2km with a ‘blink and you will miss it’ elevation of just 16m, making it an absolute cinch to walk.
You will be rewarded with beautiful sea views and a glimpse of fantastic local attractions such as ancient buildings and churches.
Milan
If you are wondering where to go on holiday in September and are hankering after an Italian getaway, then the glamorous city of Milan should definitely be on your list.
Milan has an average daily temperature of 24ºC and September has the fewest rainy days in September than in any other month.
For those that love to shop, September heralds the start of a new season where you can kit yourself out for a brand new wardrobe and Milan is most certainly one of the best cities in the world to do this.
Can you say that you have visited one of the world’s major fashion hubs without doing a little shopping?
Shopping in Milan takes things to the next level and then some!
The shopping centres in Milan are something else – they are expansive, historic and you could easily lose a day just hitting up one centre.
From brand outlet stores to international designs and everything in-between, there’s also an excellent recycled and vintage scene to dip into as well.
If you visit one shopping centre, let it be the architectural showstopper that is Milan’s standout shopping venue – the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.If shopping fills you with dread, then there’s so much more to experience.
Milan is positively brimming with world-class art, stunning architecture and more.
This Italian city is also one of the best places to enjoy a night out . From wine and relaxed views of the Duomo to designer-decorated nightclubs, there’s truly a Milan nightlife for everyone.
Boston
There are lots of reasons to love Boston all year around, let alone when considering where to go on holiday in September.
Maybe it’s those lobster rolls, the storied history or the characterful charm of the city.
Massachusetts’ marvellous city has a fantastically rich culture with an impressive selection of museums, a flourishing international foodie scene and a spectacular nightlife.
If you love sports, then your ship will most certainly be in when visiting Boston.
From baseball to basketball, you can enjoy watching teams like the New England Patriots and the Red Sox – and the seasons for both sports coincide in September, making Boston another strong choice for visiting in early autumn.
Sports not your thing? There are so many amazing things to do in Boston, from its inspiring museums to simply just taking a walk exploring the city.
Boston is an absolute beaut in autumn; for a tree-mendous trail, take a stroll through the lush public garden, then wander through the cobbled streets and brownstones of Beacon Hill and along the Charles River Esplanade to get some truly amazing insta-worthy shots.
Kyoto
Infinitely one of Japan’s most beautiful cities, Kyoto is a spectacular choice when deciding where to go on holiday in September.
The autumn colours are staggeringly beautiful, while the end of summer is signified by several festivals and vibrant street events.
Kyoto is home to more than more than 400 colourful shrines and 1,600 historic Buddhist temples and a visit to the district of Higashiyama is an absolute must.
Here, you will find some of the best and oldest temples in Japan such as the celebrated Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
History buffs will also love that Kyoto has one of the largest collections of UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites throughout the city which includes 12 Buddhist temples, three Shinto shrines and one historic castle.
No trip to Kyoto is complete, without visiting at least some of these amazing sites.
There’s also a beautiful selection of stunning gardens too where you can get your zen on including the Zen Garden at Ryoan-ji Temple, where you can admire 15 mystical rocks floating in a sea of pure white sand.
Dubai
If hot temperatures and glamour top your list for destinations deciding where to go on holiday in September, Dubai has to be on the cards.
September is the low season in Dubai, giving travellers a chance to explore the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah or The Dubai Fountain without the crowds.
It’s going to be infinitely warmer than most places on this list, but indoor activities such as the Dubai Mall (one of the world’s largest shopping malls), the Underwater Zoo or simply swimming in the hotel pool are quite the attractive proposition.
If you fancy something a little bit more active, you can choose from golf, diving, a variety of sand-based activities such as quad biking, camel riding and more.
Of course, one of the biggest draws to visitors to Dubai is the spectacular nightlife where you can dance the night away.
Whether you like lazy evenings with a glass of wine enjoying the sights from the comfort of a rooftop bar or going underground into an oh-so-secret speakeasy where you can sup delicious cocktails in style, you won’t find it hard to let your hair down in the City of Gold.
Miami
If sunshine, sightseeing and shopping are on the cards, then surely Miami has to be top of your ‘where to go on holiday in September’ list?
From the pastel-hued Art Deco architecture that provides a colourful backdrop to the city’s excellent beaches to the award-winning restaurants and the legendary nightlife, Miami has it all!
Despite it being a mecca for those that love to party, Miami is also a real cultural hub with endless things to see and do.
From exploring the art scene to getting better acquainted with nature, if you scratch below the surface of Miami’s party scene, there’s a delightful calmer side to this stunning city.
The Bahamas
Breathtakingly-brilliant white sand beaches, rainbow-painted towns, reefs full of wildlife and the Bahamas are the paragon of paradise.
Why not soak up the sun whilst relaxing on the beach, or go snorkelling and scuba diving to explore the colourful marine life.
The Bahama’s 700 islands and cays are home to national parks, walking trails and some of the best diving spots in the world.
Divers can also explore the Andros Barrier Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world as well as various underwater shipwrecks too.
The Bahamas are also a fantastic destination for those seeking more than a relaxing beach life.
You can also explore the vibrant capital, Nassau, and experience the islands’ culture through its charming markets, museums, and historic sites.
Foodies won’t be able to resist the plethora of seafood on offer in the Bahamas which includes local delicacies such as rock lobster, snapper, grouper and more.
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the best US cities to visit when considering where to go on holiday in September.
Weather wise, it tends to be warm and rainy days are thankfully rare, but you can fully expect to see the famous San Fran fog rolling over the Golden Gate bridge.
Early autumn is also one of the best months to visit San Francisco and there’s no doubt it is one of the city’s most alluring seasons.
You can’t fail to be mesmerised by the spectacular display of gold, copper and rust-red colours as September segues into October and November.
There’s also so many things to do in San Francisco, September is also typically when the Autumn Moon Festival falls which is a traditional festival that celebrates Chinese culture and this fun-filled event is full of incredible food, colourful parades and intoxicating dancing.
Other festivals in September that are worth checking out include the Sausalito Art Festival, the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival and the San Francisco Fringe Festival amongst others.
San Francisco is also one of the best places in the US to sample innovative and unforgettable food and make sure you carve out time to explore the vineyards of nearby Napa and Sonoma.
Lisbon
Lisbon is a perennial favourite as a holiday destination all year round, but if you are looking for a fantastic city for where to go on holiday in September, then the Portuguese capital has to be on your hit list.
The brightly-coloured streets, the endless galleries, sensational seafood and vibrant nightlife all go a long way to cement Lisbon’s reputation as one of the coolest cities in the world.
Scooch around the hilly city to find the most incredible miradouros or viewpoints to watch the sunset before you make a beeline for some of Lisbon’s best restaurants and cafes where you can try local dishes like pastel de nata, langoustines, bacalhau and more.
When it comes to nightlife, for those who love to party, night-owls should really make a beeline for Bairro Alto.
The centre of much of the city’s nightlife, there’s a fun, lively atmosphere here after dark and there’s plenty of quirky and uber cool bars to choose from.
However, if you are more about what goes on in the day, then there’s a plethora of galleries, historical buildings and top-notch attractions to enjoy such as the Belem Tower, the Castelo de Sao Jorge, the Monument to the Discoveries and the stunning Jerónimos Monastery.
Make sure you head over to nearby Sintra, a picturesque and enchanting city filled with fairytale palaces such as the colourful Pena Palace, a former summer home for Portuguese royalty.
Marrakech
If warm balmy temperatures are high on your list for where to go on holiday in September, surely Marrakech has to top the list.
September is an ideal time to visit Marrakech as it’s pleasant weather but you will not have to endure the often sweltering temperatures that can be a smidge oppressive.
Chock-full of architectural masterpieces, forgotten tombs, exotic gardens and intoxicating souks.
Marrakech is bursting at the seams with cultural gems just waiting to be explored.
Of course, Marrakech holidays aren’t just about souqs and spices, it’s about the incredible buildings where you can see a stunning blend of Islamic, Moorish and even Andalusian architecture, the vibrant neighbourhoods with intoxicating smells, the lively nightlife, the mind blowing food and more.
Take a walk around the Gueliz and Kasbah neighbourhoods where you can see top-notch attractions like the stunning Bahia Palace and the lush oasis that is Jardin Majorelle, or if you prefer more exercise, why not head out to trek up parts of the Atlas Mountains.
After all that foot stomping, you will definitely be in the need of a relaxing retreat to the hammam. For travellers in Morocco, nothing is more revitalising than a steam and scrub at a hammam.
There are several to choose from in Marrakech from traditional hamman’s where the locals go to bathe and socialise to more luxury offerings that are largely catered to tourists.
Make sure to indulge in a refreshing glass of mint tea after the hammam where you can embrace your newfound serenity.
Ibiza
Not just an island for party people, Ibiza is one of the best places to consider when thinking of where to go on holiday in September if you are looking for a relaxing wellness getaway.
Whether you are a serious yogi or just want to dip your toes into the proverbial water of wellness retreats, Ibiza can totally deliver on a relaxing break.
Despite it being an island awash with temptation, you can enjoy a more tranquil side to the ‘White Isle’ where you can achieve a zen state of mind and leave Ibiza light as air, but if you are still looking for a slice of excitement, you can enjoy the closing parties of the season at the various clubs, beach bars and more.
Holidaying in Ibiza in September undoubtedly is a great way to showcase Ibiza’s many other charms.
Whether this is admiring the lush scenery such as the magical coves and pine-carpeted hills, visiting pretty villages or shoppimg until you drop at the excellent markets that make the White Isle truly a force to be reckoned with whether you want relaxation, partying or both.
Corfu
You can still enjoy warm temperatures and sunny skies in September on Corfu, but you will find that this Greek island is decidedly less crowded and you won’t necessarily have to jostle for position to take a refreshing dip in the azure Ionian sea.
From the delicious cuisine to the superb diving spots that are scattered throughout the island where you can enjoy an aquatic adventure of your very own.
However, if you prefer to spend your sun-soaked days strictly sandy side up, then you will have a plethora of divine beaches to choose from such as Agios Stefanos and Megas Choros beach.
Corfu is one of the best Greek islands for hiking and it’s a great way to see how diverse and breathtaking the landscape really is.
There’s different walks depending on your fitness level and how long you want your walk to be.
The Vlacherna walk is ideal for beginners and families as it’s only shy of 2km with a ‘blink and you will miss it’ elevation of just 16m, making it an absolute cinch to walk.
You will be rewarded with beautiful sea views and a glimpse of fantastic local attractions such as ancient buildings and churches.
Milan
If you are wondering where to go on holiday in September and are hankering after an Italian getaway, then the glamorous city of Milan should definitely be on your list.
Milan has an average daily temperature of 24ºC and September has the fewest rainy days in September than in any other month.
For those that love to shop, September heralds the start of a new season where you can kit yourself out for a brand new wardrobe and Milan is most certainly one of the best cities in the world to do this.
Can you say that you have visited one of the world’s major fashion hubs without doing a little shopping?
Shopping in Milan takes things to the next level and then some! The shopping centres in Milan are something else!
They are expansive, historic and you could easily lose a day just hitting up one centre.
From brand outlet stores to international designs and everything in-between, there’s also an excellent recycled and vintage scene to dip into as well.
If you visit one shopping centre, let it be the architectural showstopper that is Milan’s standout shopping venue – the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II.
If shopping fills you with dread, then there’s so much more to experience.
Milan is positively brimming with world-class art, stunning architecture and more. This Italian city is also one of the best places to enjoy a night out . From wine and relaxed views of the Duomo to designer-decorated nightclubs, there’s truly a Milan nightlife for everyone.
Boston
There are lots of reasons to love Boston all year around, let alone when considering where to go on holiday in September.
Maybe it’s those lobster rolls, the storied history or the characterful charm of the city.
Massachusetts’ marvellous city has a fantastically rich culture with an impressive selection of museums, a flourishing international foodie scene and a spectacular nightlife.
If you love sports, then your ship will most certainly be in when visiting Boston.
From baseball to basketball, you can enjoy watching teams like the New England Patriots and the Red Sox – and the seasons for both sports coincide in September, making Boston another strong choice for visiting in early autumn,
Sports not your thing? There are so many amazing things to do in Boston, from its inspiring museums to simply just taking a walk exploring the city.
Boston is an absolute beaut in autumn; for a tree-mendous trail, take a stroll through the lush public garden, then wander through the cobbled streets and brownstones of Beacon Hill and along the Charles River Esplanade to get some truly amazing insta-worthy shots.
Kyoto
Infinitely one of Japan’s most beautiful cities, Kyoto is a spectacular choice when deciding where to go on holiday in September.
The autumn colours are staggeringly beautiful, while the end of summer is signified by several festivals and vibrant street events.
Kyoto is home to more than more than 400 colourful shrines and 1,600 historic Buddhist temples and a visit to the district of Higashiyama is an absolute must.
Here, you will find some of the best and oldest temples in Japan such as the celebrated Kiyomizu-dera Temple.
History buffs will also love that Kyoto has one of the largest collections of UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites throughout the city which includes 12 Buddhist temples, three Shinto shrines and one historic castle.
No trip to Kyoto is complete, without visiting at least some of these amazing sites.
There’s also a beautiful selection of stunning gardens too where you can get your zen on including the Zen Garden at Ryoan-ji Temple, where you can admire 15 mystical rocks floating in a sea of pure white sand.
The Bahamas
Breathtakingly-brilliant white sand beaches, rainbow-painted towns, reefs full of wildlife and the Bahamas are the paragon of paradise.
Why not soak up the sun whilst relaxing on the beach, or go snorkelling and scuba diving to explore the colourful marine life.
The Bahama’s 700 islands and cays are home to national parks, walking trails and some of the best diving spots in the world.
Divers can also explore the Andros Barrier Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world as well as various underwater shipwrecks too.
The Bahamas are also a fantastic destination for those seeking more than a relaxing beach life.
You can also explore the vibrant capital, Nassau, and experience the islands’ culture through its charming markets, museums, and historic sites.
Foodies won’t be able to resist the plethora of seafood on offer in the Bahamas which includes local delicacies such as rock lobster, snapper, grouper and more.
Miami
If sunshine, sightseeing and shopping are on the cards, then surely Miami has to be top of your ‘where to go on holiday in September’ list?
From the pastel-hued Art Deco architecture that provides a colourful backdrop to the city’s excellent beaches to the award-winning restaurants and the legendary nightlife, Miami has it all!
Despite it being a mecca for those that love to party, Miami is also a real cultural hub with endless things to see and do.
From exploring the art scene to getting better acquainted with nature, if you scratch below the surface of Miami’s party scene, there’s a delightful calmer side to this stunning city.
San Francisco
San Francisco is one of the best US cities to visit when considering where to go on holiday in September.
Weather wise, it tends to be warm and rainy days are thankfully rare, but you can fully expect to see the famous San Fran fog rolling over the Golden Gate bridge.
Early autumn is also one of the best months to visit San Francisco and there’s no doubt it is one of the city’s most alluring seasons.
You can’t fail to be mesmerised by the spectacular display of gold, copper and rust-red colours as September segues into October and November.
There’s also so many things to do in San Francisco, September is also typically when the Autumn Moon Festival falls which is a traditional festival that celebrates Chinese culture and this fun-filled event is full of incredible food, colourful parades and intoxicating dancing.
Other festivals in September that are worth checking out include the Sausalito Art Festival, the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Festival and the San Francisco Fringe Festival amongst others.
San Francisco is also one of the best places in the US to sample innovative and unforgettable food and make sure you carve out time to explore the vineyards of nearby Napa and Sonoma.
