The best places to go on holiday in September

When it comes to holiday planning, one of the biggest things to consider is when to actually travel, and it can be easy to feel a little unenthusiastic about the early autumn months. Though it may seem as though the travel opportunities disappear with the warmest weather, it couldn’t be further from the truth. From the first arrival of North America’s fiery fall colours to the abundant fresh produce of Europe’s harvest season, there are countless memorable experiences to enjoy even once the summer’s over. So, which destinations are best to visit in September? 

Portugal

A firm favourite of travellers across the world, Portugal strikes the perfect balance between enticing city centres, bucolic riverside landscapes and immersive cultural highlights. Though it’s worth a visit all year round, this Iberian nation is at its most atmospheric in September, with quintas (wine cellars) across the country making the most of the grape harvest season. 

Wine lovers can visit traditional Port producers in colourful Porto, while those looking for a more unique wine-tasting experience can sample a freshly pressed bottle of vinho verde (green wine). Often produced in the Minho region, this wine variety is one of the few that are best enjoyed young, and with harvest season in full swing, it’s the ideal time to find a bottle. The Atlantic is also at its warmest in September and has fewer crowds as the summer rush subsides, making it perfect for a few final moments by the beach ahead of autumn.

California

The sun sets in the west, and the same can be said of the summer, with few places as colourful as California in September. As the temperatures begin to fall and summer fog gives way to spectacular seaside landscapes, the USA’s ‘Golden State’ takes on a new lease of life in the early autumn. From the charming small towns of the Big Sur to the celebrity haunts and most recognisable landmarks of the state’s biggest cities, California’s highlights also tend to be far quieter as summer’s holidaymakers begin to head home.

It’s not just the inner-city hotspots that are well-suited to a September holiday, the national parks further inland are every bit as impressive in the cooler autumnal temperatures. With fewer crowds flocking to each protected reserve, visitors at this time of year can see the natural beauty of the American West undisturbed. Spot brown bears amongst the alpine trails of vast Yosemite, weave around Sequoia National Park’s towering redwoods, and explore the arid prospector trails of Death Valley. Whether you’re here for the cities, the sights or the celebrities, California is perfectly suited to an early autumn escape.

Eastern Canada

Though New England tends to take most of the plaudits when it comes to its enchanting fall foliage, Eastern Canada offers an equally striking set of landscapes without the crowds, and it all begins in September. As the month progresses, the green woodland vistas of Ontario and Quebec give way to a vivid wave of reds, oranges, and golds that make this corner of the world famous. 

Highlights here include the provincial capitals of the Atlantic Coast, from Halifax to Fredericton, and the Eastern Townships of Quebec, which rank among the most spectacular spots to watch the fall colours unfold. That being said, September is about more than Canada’s foliage and making the most of the country’s cosmopolitan centres away from the crowds is highly recommended. Québec City can be explored at a gentler pace, Montréal buzzes with festivals and culinary energy, and the sheer scale of the St. Lawrence makes for a journey unlike anywhere else.

East Africa

When it comes to safari, you might be surprised to know that September is one of the best months of the year. Having recently endured the dry season, the bushveld tends to be sparsely vegetated at this time of year, meaning animals are even easier to spot, and many species flock to each region’s popular watering holes. With a higher concentration of animals in smaller areas, early autumn showcases the best of Africa’s natural world and East Africa is particularly memorable under the September sun. 

In Kenya's Maasai Mara, the Great Migration is still in full swing, and wildebeest and zebra fan out across the plains in their thousands. The region’s big cats are also at their most active during this period, making for an even more dramatic viewing experience. Tanzania's elephant herds are easy to spot as they flock to the watering holes around Lake Manyara, while the Ngorongoro Crater continues to offer reliable Big Five sightings. With more manageable temperatures, clearer skies, and minimal rainfall, East Africa is a fine choice for a safari adventure throughout September. 

Ubekistan

As Central Asia’s summer temperatures begin to fall, September sees Uzbekistan return to its best and many visitors swear by travelling at this time of year. With average temperatures resting between 20-30°C, this Silk Road country is much easier to explore away from the desert heat. The light is also exceptional at this time of year, highlighting Samarkand's blue-tiled skyline and Khiva's ancient ramparts in a truly magnificent way. 

The bazaars and trading domes, for which the country is best known, are also sure to impress at this time of year, and many still heave with fresh produce at the end of the harvest season. Another major highlight is Samarkand's Silk Road Cultural Festival, which brings music and performance to its extraordinary open-air settings. With dramatic evening light, cultural experiences and the best introduction to Central Asia’s Silk Road heritage, few times of year come close to September for exploring Uzbekistan. 

The Balkans

The Balkans are at their best in September, with milder temperatures and quieter streets allowing you to experience each country’s highlights in greater depth and comfort. It’s not just the bustling ferry ports and UNESCO-listed landmarks that’ll hold your interest, and there are plenty of exquisite rural towns that are ideal for exploring in the early autumn. 

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar’s charming bazaars are at their most atmospheric in the softer September sun, and visitors can watch locals take part in the town’s thrilling 24-metre bridge jump from the top of Stari Most. Albania, too, becomes more compelling as the summer rush winds down, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures making it easier to discover each lesser-known highlight at a more leisurely pace. Harvest season brings its own highlights and regional delicacies, prepared with the freshest local ingredients, which offer the ideal way to form a deeper connection with Balkan culture. Put simply, September elevates any itinerary to this fascinating corner of the world.