With the arrival of September, many destinations around the world experience milder temperatures and a decrease in tourist crowds. The weather is often just right for exploring cities or enjoying nature. Plus, there are lots of interesting events happening. Thinking about a trip in September? Here are best places to travel to in September!
Cappadocia, Turkey
Imagine floating over a fairy-tale landscape as the sun rises, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. That’s Cappadocia in September. Famous for its “fairy chimneys” – odd-shaped rocks jutting from the ground – this region transforms as summer heat fades. The weather becomes perfect for exploring old cave homes and underground cities, relics of a bygone era.
Farmers busy themselves picking grapes and nuts, adding life to the beautiful scenery. Mild temperatures make it ideal for hiking Rose Valley or horseback riding through Meskendir Valley. You can enjoy the area’s natural beauty without the hot summer temperatures. The clear skies of September also make for excellent stargazing opportunities in this unique landscape.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Göreme Open-Air Museum – A vast area with rock-cut churches, adorned with beautiful ancient paintings that offer a glimpse into early Christian history.
- Things to do: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise to see amazing views. Hike or go horseback riding in the valleys. Explore the underground cities of Derinkuyu or Kaymakli.
- Local Food: Try testi kebab, a tasty stew cooked in a clay pot. Sample local wines from nearby farms, including the unique Cappadocian wine made from grapes grown in volcanic soil.
- Where to stay: Experience a cave hotel in Göreme or Uçhisar, blending old-world charm with modern comforts. Many offer terraces with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Tbilisi, Georgia
Between Europe and Asia, Tbilisi shows its best side in the early autumn. This capital city, where old meets new, is lovely in early fall. Narrow streets lined with colorful houses and pretty balconies invite exploration in the pleasant weather. The city’s rich history is evident in its diverse architecture, from medieval churches to Soviet-era structures and modern designs.
September marks the start of Rtveli, the grape harvest. Georgia, one of the world’s oldest wine-producing regions, offers numerous varieties to taste in Tbilisi’s wine bars. The agreeable climate also makes it perfect for visiting the city’s beautiful parks and gardens, such as the National Botanical Garden of Georgia. Don’t miss the chance to soak in the city’s famous sulfur baths, a centuries-old tradition.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Narikala Fortress – An ancient fort offering great city views, accessible by a scenic cable car ride. The fortress has stood watch over Tbilisi since the 4th century.
- Things to do: Explore the charming Old Town with its winding streets and hidden cafes. Relax in traditional sulfur baths in the Abanotubani area. Visit the futuristic Bridge of Peace for a striking contrast to the old town.
- Local Food: Savor khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings) at the bustling Deserters’ Bazaar. Sample Georgia’s renowned wines, including the unique amber wines made using traditional qvevri methods.
- Where to stay: Choose a small, cozy hotel in the Old Town to be close to Tbilisi’s history while enjoying modern amenities. Many offer beautiful views of the city’s landmarks.
Santorini, Greece
Beautiful views await around every corner of this crescent-shaped island. Gleaming white buildings and blue-topped churches pop against the deep sea, creating picture-perfect scenes. The cooler September days invite you to explore clifftop towns, dig into ancient history, and chill on dark volcanic beaches without breaking a sweat. With the crowds gone, you’ll feel the island’s true magic – a place where time slows down and each sunset feels like it’s just for you.
September coincides with grape harvest time, offering a taste of local life. Santorini’s volcanic soil produces unique wines, and you can tour vineyards and join harvest festivals. The sea remains warm for swimming, and you’ll enjoy the renowned Santorini sunsets best from towns like Oia or Fira. Take a boat trip to the volcanic islands in the caldera for a different perspective of this beautiful island.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Oia Village – Famous for its stunning sunsets, blue-domed churches, and picturesque windmills overlooking the sea.
- Things to do: Take a sunset boat trip around the caldera, explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri (the “Pompeii of the Aegean”), or walk from Fira to Oia for spectacular views.
- Local Food: Savor fresh seafood at seaside restaurants. Try local specialties like fava (yellow pea dip), white eggplant, and the unique Santorini tomatoes.
- Where to stay: Book a room in a cave hotel in Oia or Imerovigli for a unique stay with breathtaking caldera views. Many hotels offer infinity pools overlooking the sea.
Hanoi, Vietnam
A thousand years of history blend with modern life in Vietnam’s capital as summer rains subside. Tree-lined streets and quiet lakes balance out Hanoi’s busy Old Quarter. Cooler weather in September makes it easier to explore old temples, French buildings, and lively streets.
This month also marks the beginning of Mid-Autumn Festival preparations. You’ll see streets come alive with colorful lanterns and sweet mooncakes. The pleasant evenings are perfect for enjoying Vietnamese iced coffee at street cafes, taking leisurely rides around Hoan Kiem Lake, or visiting the city’s numerous temples. Don’t miss the chance to watch a traditional water puppet show, a uniquely Vietnamese art form.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple – The heart of the city, offering a peaceful retreat amidst the urban bustle.
- Things to do: Embark on a street food tour, visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, and explore the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Take a cooking class to learn about Vietnamese cuisine.
- Local Food: Sample pho (beef noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and egg coffee at local food stalls. Visit Cha Ca Street for the famous fish dish.
- Where to stay: Opt for a small hotel in the Old Quarter for easy access to main sights and a taste of local life. Many offer rooftop terraces with views over the city.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Green hills hug Kathmandu as the rains wrap up, teasing views of snowy Himalayan giants. This old city mixes Hindu and Buddhist traditions, blending medieval buildings with modern bustle. September kicks off prime trekking time, making Kathmandu perfect for city wandering and mountain escapes.
Rain-fed greenery frames ancient temples and palaces. Indra Jatra floods streets with masked dancers, rolling chariots, and buzzing crowds. Cool fall air makes strolling old town lanes a breeze. Duck into age-old temples or admire the city and mountain views. For a real thrill, hop a plane and circle Everest – it’ll blow your mind.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Boudhanath Stupa – One of Nepal’s largest round temples, important for Tibetan Buddhists in Kathmandu.
- Things to do: Explore Durbar Square with its old palaces and temples, take a day trip to the medieval city of Bhaktapur, and visit Swayambhunath, the “Monkey Temple.” Join a meditation class at a local monastery.
- Local Food: Try momos (Nepali dumplings), dal bhat (lentils and rice), and traditional Newari food at local restaurants. Sample some Nepali tea.
- Where to stay: Pick a hotel in lively Thamel to be in the center of everything, or choose a heritage hotel for a more traditional experience. Some hotels offer yoga classes with views of the city.
Tuscany, Italy
Golden hills and cypress trees pop as Tuscany cools down. September buzzes with harvest vibes – vineyards droop with juicy grapes, forests hide sneaky truffles. Mild days let you wander medieval towns and fancy museums without bumping elbows.
Nights in cozy squares feel just right for sipping local wines and munching fresh grub. The coast still serves up warm swims and chill beaches if you want culture with a side of sand. Want a thrill? Sniff out truffles with the pros or float over those postcard hills in a hot air balloon.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Florence’s Uffizi Gallery – One of the world’s best art museums, home to famous Renaissance masterpieces.
- Things to do: Take a wine tour in Chianti, climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa, explore medieval San Gimignano. Attend a local festival like the Grape Festival in Impruneta.
- Local Food: Try Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak), fresh pasta with truffles, and Pecorino cheese. Don’t miss gelato in Florence.
- Where to stay: Book an agriturismo (farm stay) in the countryside for a real Tuscan experience. Many offer cooking classes and wine tastings on-site.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon sprawls over seven hills, showing off as tourists thin out. September paints pastel houses and fancy tiles in gold light. Wander through the winding streets and take in the beauty. Fado tunes leak from cozy bars, pulling you into Portugal’s heartbeat.
Warm days and cool nights hit different in September. Climb to old castles, catch sunset from city lookouts. Beaches still serve up sun and waves, while Sintra’s fairy-tale vibe feels even better without the sweat. Hop on the old-school Tram 28 for a bumpy ride through Lisbon’s prettiest spots.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Belém Tower – A beautiful old fortress by the river, a symbol of Lisbon’s maritime history.
- Things to do: Ride the historic Tram 28, visit São Jorge Castle, take a food tour in Alfama neighborhood. Explore the modern architecture of the Parque das Nações.
- Local Food: Taste pastéis de nata (custard tarts), fresh grilled sardines, and Port wine. Try ginjinha, a sour cherry liqueur, from a traditional hole-in-the-wall bar.
- Where to stay: Choose a boutique hotel in the Bairro Alto or Chiado areas for a central location and lively atmosphere. Many offer rooftop bars with panoramic views of the city.
Barcelona, Spain
Cool sea air tames Barcelona’s sizzling streets come September. With summer winding down, you can explore Catalan culture at your leisure. Gaudí’s wild buildings wait without the crazy lines, while markets pop with fall colors and tastes.
La Mercè hits town this month – Barcelona’s biggest street bash. Music, dance, and Catalan traditions take over. Beaches chill out, swapping crowds for quiet spots to catch late summer rays. Hop on a bike or join a walking tour to dig up Gothic Quarter secrets in the nice weather.
- Top Attraction: Sagrada Família – Gaudí’s amazing unfinished church, a must-see in Barcelona.
- Things to do: Walk down Las Ramblas, explore Park Güell, visit the Picasso Museum. Attend a FC Barcelona match at Camp Nou for a taste of local passion.
- Local Food: Enjoy paella, tapas, and cava (Spanish sparkling wine) at local restaurants. Visit La Boqueria market for fresh produce and local specialties.
- Where to stay: Pick a hotel in the Gothic Quarter for history or Eixample district to be close to main attractions. Some hotels offer cooking classes where you can learn to make traditional Catalan dishes.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s old stones whisper stories as fall creeps in. September lets the city breathe after its big festival buzz. Soft light makes the Old Town’s medieval maze pop, while the New Town shows off its fancy Georgian style.
Golden leaves hit the parks, perfect for lazy walks. Climb Arthur’s Seat for killer views, then warm up in snug pubs. Fewer tourists mean you can really dig into Edinburgh Castle or poke around museums without the crush. Fancy some chills? Ghost tours serve up spooky tales and old legends after dark.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Edinburgh Castle – An impressive fortress on a hill, with great views of the city and home to the Scottish Crown Jewels.
- Things to do: Walk the Royal Mile, visit the National Museum of Scotland, take a ghost tour in the old city. Enjoy a whisky tasting session at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
- Local Food: Try haggis (a traditional Scottish dish), fish and chips, and Scottish shortbread. Warm up with a bowl of Cullen skink, a hearty Scottish soup.
- Where to stay: Choose a hotel near the Royal Mile for easy access to main attractions. For a unique experience, consider staying in a converted Georgian townhouse in the New Town.
Kyoto, Japan
Old ways echo in Kyoto’s temples with fall’s gentle touch. September teases the big fall show in this old royal city. Shrines and temples serve up calm beauty, while classic wooden houses line quiet streets.
This month, the Hagi Festival shows off dainty bush clover blooms. Tea houses dish out timeless rituals, and nights beg for walks. Hit the Philosopher’s Path or Gion’s lantern-lit lanes. Catch geishas rushing by at dusk for a real slice of old Japan.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) – A stunning gold-covered temple reflected in a pond, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Things to do: Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, see Nijo Castle. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony.
- Local Food: Enjoy Kyoto-style sushi, matcha green tea desserts, and traditional kaiseki meals. Try yudofu, a local tofu hotpot dish.
- Where to stay: Try a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) for a unique experience, or a modern hotel near Kyoto Station for convenience. Some ryokans offer onsen (hot spring baths) for ultimate relaxation.
You can read a little bit more about what to do in Kyoto here.
Corsica, France
Jagged peaks dive into clear seas as Corsica chills into fall. This Med gem sparkles in September – beaches empty but sun still warm. Wild landscapes beg for adventures, from coastal roads to mountain treks.
September hits the sweet spot for outdoor fun. Paddle along rocky shores or tackle bits of the tough GR20 trail. Hill towns buzz with harvest parties, and the sea stays warm for swims and fish-peeping. Dig into the island’s French-Italian mix – it shows up big time in the food and old ways.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Scandola Nature Reserve – A beautiful protected area with red cliffs and clear waters, best seen by boat.
- Things to do: Relax on Palombaggia Beach, hike in the mountains, visit the birthplace of Napoleon in Ajaccio. Take a scenic train ride through the island’s interior.
- Local Food: Try Corsican cheese, charcuterie (cured meats), and fresh seafood. Sample local wines and chestnut beer.
- Where to stay: Choose a beachfront hotel for relaxation or a mountain lodge for great views and hiking access. Some agriturismos offer a taste of rural Corsican life.
Munich, Germany
Clinking steins kick off Munich’s big month as Oktoberfest rolls in. But there’s more to this Bavarian hotspot than beer. Grand squares and palaces pop in soft fall light, while huge parks start their color show.
Skip Oktoberfest? No sweat. September in Munich still rocks. Bike through the English Garden, hit up fancy museums, or day-trip to castles straight out of fairy tales. Nice weather means you can play outside and see the sights without breaking a sweat.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Marienplatz – The main square in Munich’s old town, with its famous Glockenspiel clock tower.
- Things to do: Visit the Oktoberfest celebrations, explore the Deutsches Museum, take a bike tour of the city. Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle.
- Local Food: Enjoy pretzels, Weisswurst (white sausage), and of course, plenty of German beer. Try traditional dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle).
- Where to stay: Book a hotel near Marienplatz to be in the center of Oktoberfest fun and city attractions. For a quieter stay, consider the artsy Schwabing district.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Purple jacarandas get ready to pop as Buenos Aires shakes off winter. Spring hits the city in September, pumping life into fancy streets and colorful hoods. Cool weather lets you wander from old-school San Telmo to hip Palermo without breaking a sweat.
The city cranks up with events like the Jazz Fest. Locals spill onto cafe terraces, enjoying the sunlight.. Tango dancers hit the streets, adding some spice to the air. It’s prime time to dive into porteño life.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Recoleta Cemetery – A beautiful and historic cemetery where Eva Perón is buried.
- Things to do: Watch a tango show, visit the colorful La Boca neighborhood, explore the MALBA art museum. Take a street art tour in Palermo.
- Local Food: Try Argentine steak, empanadas, and dulce de leche desserts. Enjoy mate, the traditional Argentine tea.
- Where to stay: Choose a hotel in Palermo for a trendy neighborhood experience or Recoleta for classic Buenos Aires charm. Some boutique hotels offer tango lessons.
Windhoek, Namibia
Windhoek’s wild surroundings wake up as the dry season peaks in September. Namibia’s capital opens doors to epic safaris, with animals clustering around waterholes under clear skies. The city mixes African and German flavors, from buildings to street life.
September’s nice temps make it easy to check out city sights and markets before diving into the crazy deserts, mountains, and game parks nearby. It’s your best shot at spotting elephants, lions, and weird desert critters in the national parks.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: Christuskirche – A landmark German Lutheran church in the city center.
- Things to do: Visit the National Museum of Namibia, take a day trip to Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, shop at the Namibia Craft Centre. Join a desert tour to see the famous red dunes.
- Local Food: Try game meats like kudu or oryx, and local beers. Sample Namibian barbecue (braai) for an authentic experience.
- Where to stay: Stay at a lodge just outside the city for a mix of urban convenience and nature access. Some accommodations offer guided safaris.
Beijing, China
Old walls and glass towers pop against Beijing’s clear September skies. Summer haze lifts, showing off the city’s royal past and buzzing present. Cool weather lets you roam the massive Forbidden City, wander old alleys, or hit up quiet spots on the Great Wall without melting.
September brings the Mid-Autumn Festival – think glowing lanterns and sweet mooncakes everywhere. Parks like the Summer Palace start their fall color show, perfect for lazy walks or boat rides.It’s the perfect time to experience the blend of old and new China.
Highlights
- Top Attraction: The Great Wall of China – Sections near Beijing are less crowded and beautiful in September.
- Things to do: Visit the Forbidden City, explore the 798 Art District, take a cooking class to learn about Chinese cuisine. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.
- Local Food: Try Peking duck, jianbing (savory crepes), and dumplings at local restaurants. Sample street food at the Donghuamen Night Market.
- Where to stay: Choose a hotel near Wangfujing Street for shopping and food, or in the Sanlitun area for nightlife. Some hotels offer tai chi classes with views of the city.
Conclusion
September truly offers a world of travel opportunities. From the ancient streets of Kyoto to the wild landscapes of Namibia, this month brings milder weather, fewer crowds, and unique experiences across the globe. Whether you’re looking to explore historic cities, relax on beautiful beaches, or immerse yourself in different cultures, September provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable adventures.
Remember to check local events and festivals happening during your visit, as many places celebrate harvest seasons or cultural traditions in September. While crowds are generally smaller, it’s still wise to book accommodations and major attractions in advance, especially for popular destinations.
No matter which destination you choose, September travel promises a blend of pleasant weather, cultural richness, and the joy of exploration. Pack your bags and get ready to create lasting memories in these amazing September destinations!