August might appear to represent the end of summer but don’t believe the baloney. The most-touristed continent on Earth (Europe FYI) saves its true charms for September when temperatures fluctuate between a wonderful 25°C to 32°C, streets are quieter than peak summer, but the sea is still the perfect temperature for a swim. For most travellers, the ninth month is a back-to-reality wake-up call, but if you can buck the trend, you’ll find September is the best time to travel. Better still, you don’t need to cross continents for the last boost of vitamin D. So, don’t let the opportunity pass you by, take advantage of the lower prices and you’ll reap the rewards of crowd-free beaches, queueless restaurants and diminishing traffic jams. Below you’ll find the very best places to visit for a holiday in September that are perfect for couples, groups, and families travelling with infants.
1. Puglia, Italy
Weather: Max: 25 degrees (approx.) | Min: 16 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Puglia is the Italian region on everyone’s lips, a retreat where savvy travellers bored by the crowds of Tuscany and Florence turn to for a sweet escape, swapping the chaos for something more manicured and dainty. We could rave about this region all day long, but in short, Puglia is a pretty superb destination for a villa holiday in September.
Where to stay: We have a wide range of villas in Puglia. Have a look around and find your favourite traditional trullo!
Further reading: Best family activities in Puglia
Weather: Max: 30 degrees (approx.) | Min: 23 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Alluring tourists since the 60s, the Algarve is famed for its cliffs, scallop-shaped bays and sandy beaches. But away from the resorts is a different story – the west coast is more serene and less about development, so you’ll get to experience the best of both worlds. September will also be much quieter compared to July and August. So if you’ve ever fancied a slice of Portugal’s offerings, September is a perfect time to visit.
Where to stay: Our villas in Algarve are just what you need after a day at the beach.
Further reading: Algarve travel guide
3. Crete, Greece
Weather: Max: 24 degrees (approx.)| Min: 19 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Castaway beaches, seafront towns, and warm blue lagoons, Crete is the sparkliest of the Greek Islands. We haven’t worked out what makes this island so special, but we’ve put it down to a mix of things, from the culture that encompasses the streets, all the way to the magical scenery.
Where to stay: Have you had a look at our villas in Crete?
Further reading: A Week in Crete – your island itinerary
4. Costa Blanca, Spain
Weather: Max: 25 degrees (approx.) | Min: 28 degrees (approx.)
What to do: The White Coast is one of Europe’s most visited areas and it’s no surprise as to why. For starters, the infamous beaches are honestly out of the world but then there’s also a variety of activities on offer. You can even head inland to explore the villages and towns, and the bustling nightlife, or to pick up the local fishing skill. So much to do, so little time!
Where to stay: Discover our villas in Costa Blanca.
Further reading: Costa Blanca travel guide
5. Sicily, Italy
Weather: Max: 26 degrees (approx.) | Min: 17 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Whether you’re a history buff, food and wine connoisseur or you just love to lay in the sun – Sicily will be most obliging. All your senses will be satisfied; this island-sized open-air museum is packed with incredible archaeological sites and dramatic natural landscapes. It’d be a shame to miss out…
Where to stay: Our villas in Sicily will be the cherry on top of your holiday.
Further reading: Sicily travel guide
6. Cyprus
Weather: Max: 26 degrees (approx.) | Min: 19 degrees (approx.)
What to do: If you’re into mythology then you’ll adore the birthplace of the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. The island of love is steeped in history, contrasts in colourful landscapes, unbeatable weather and of course, you’ll never be more than a short drive from the sea or surrounding mountains.
Where to stay: Find your perfect holiday home in Cyprus.
Further reading: The local’s guide to Cyprus
7. Cote d’Azur, France
Weather: Max: 22 degrees (approx.) | Min: 18 degrees (approx.).
What to do: Cliff-top roads, irresistible beaches and impossibly blue seas, the Cote d’Azur captures the South of France to a T – sexy, dripping in glitz and glamour. But you don’t need to be a high-profile celeb to make the most of the region, the never-ending diversity is perfect for all kinds of travellers.
Where to stay: Have you had a look at our villas in Cote d’Azur yet?
Further reading: Top 10 villas in Cote d’Azur
8. Languedoc, France
Weather: Max: 25 degrees (approx.) | Min: 12 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Languedoc is a delight to visit, more so because it’s completely off the cuff from the rest of the country. The French rural life is a pleasure we believe everyone should experience, even if just once. But if you’re not a fan of the countryside, don’t fret, Languedoc still has a mix of landscapes, a stunning coastline, and lively social living.
Where to stay: Our chateaux and villas in Languedoc will make your holiday home dreams come true.
Further reading: Best family activities in Languedoc
9. Ibiza, Spain
Weather: Max: 26 degrees (approx.) | Min: 19 degrees (approx.)
What to do: The clubbing capital of the world through and through, but holidaying in September shines a spotlight on Ibiza’s many other charms. The unfrequented coves, medieval history, and pine-carpeted hills make this White Isle a force to be reckoned with.
Where to stay: Why not treat yourself and book one of our villas in Ibiza?
Further reading: 10 things to do in Ibiza by day
10. Sardinia, Italy
Weather: Max: 22 degrees (approx.) | Min: 17 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Visiting Sardinia will feel as though you have the whole island to yourself. And more importantly, the island isn’t one-dimensional, rather it’s incredibly different, you’ll believe us when you see it with your own eyes. You’ll find the traditionalists in Barbagia, the high life in Costa Smeralda and ancient history in Nora, the list goes on and on…
And, with the August holidaymakers back to work, you might find you have the island to yourself during a holiday in September.
Where to stay: Why do ordinary: Find your dream villas in Sardinia.
Further reading: Best beaches in Sardinia
11. Cornwall, England
Weather: Max: 17 degrees (approx.) | Min: 12 degrees (approx:)
What to do: Naturally, we couldn’t talk about holiday regions without throwing in a staycation and Cornwall is the best region for a September holiday. With long stretches of sandy beach and jaw-dropping scenery, Cornwall feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, yet it’s easily accessible by car and train.
Where to stay: Fancy a place outside the norm? Have a look at our luxury cottages in Cornwall.
Further reading: Best group activities in Cornwall
12. Rhodes, Greece
Weather: Max: 28 degrees (approx.) | Min: 22 degrees (approx.)
What to do: Rhodes boasts almost all-year-round sunshine, so if that isn’t reason enough, then I don’t know what is. Full of history, charismatic charm, a nightlife to boot and fine crystal waters – you’ll be beside yourself if you don’t visit. Rhodes is even prettier than the pictures depict, but don’t just take our word for it.
Where to stay: Check out our stunning villas in Rhodes.
Further reading: The local’s guide to authentic Rhodes
If you’re looking for more show-stopping homes for your holiday in September, check out our extensive portfolio of luxury villas that will have you grinning from ear to ear all year round. And if you need any extras or even some advice you can also call our concierge team.
I love your website and am planning a September Birthday vacation with just myself and a friend. The important things to me is weather, proximity to dining, must speak English, not far from an airport, and near by areas to tour. I don’t have a lot of time to research and it all depends on costs. I will be paying air and accommodations even though it my birthday. I can go anytime but keep in mind my birthday is 17 th ? Think not hot, and not cold. lol me to walk but need English speaking tours! I love THIS email regarding September vacations !
September is always a good option to travel, much less tourism, although more and more people are choosing to travel this month. I love how you have chosen the sites, more and more I like your page and thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.