Best countries to visit in September

Looking for the best countries to visit in September? Discover the top travel destinations with perfect weather, fewer crowds, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural experiences ideal for a September getaway.

As summer fades in the northern hemisphere and spring awakens in the south, September emerges as one of the most underrated months for travel. It offers the perfect balance between great weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices—a golden window for travelers seeking authentic experiences without the summer rush. Whether you’re planning a beach escape, a cultural deep dive, a wine trail through Europe, or an offbeat mountain trek, this is the time to explore the world at your own pace.

If you’re wondering about the best countries to visit in September, you’re not alone. September falls in the “shoulder season” in many regions. You can enjoy the benefits of the high season, like pleasant temperatures and open attractions, without the inflated costs or long lines. From the sun-drenched coasts of the Mediterranean to the breathtaking safaris of Kenya and the colourful landscapes of Patagonia, the options are as diverse as they are exciting.

This blog will guide you through the top countries to visit in September, tailored to your travel preferences—be it adventure, culture, wildlife, food, or relaxation. We’ll also cover hidden gems, travel tips, and frequently asked questions to help you make the most of this beautiful time of year.

Quick reference table:

Continent	Country	Top Experiences	Best Places to Visit
Europe	Greece	Island hopping, cultural exploration	Santorini, Crete, Athens, Naxos & Paros
	Spain	Festivals, cultural events	Barcelona, Seville, Costa Brava, La Rioja
	Croatia	Nature exploration, beach holidays	Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice Lakes, Korčula
	France	Wine harvests, cultural tours	Paris, Burgundy, Loire Valley, Provence
Asia	China	Cultural sites, trekking	Beijing, Xi’an, Guilin & Yangshuo, Shanghai
	Sri Lanka	Beach vacations, wildlife safaris	Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Sigiriya, Yala National Park
	Uzbekistan	History, architecture	Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent
Americas	USA Pacific Northwest	Scenic drives, outdoor adventures	Seattle, Oregon Coast, Columbia River Gorge, San Juan Islands
	Argentina	Wine tourism, spring experiences	Mendoza, Buenos Aires, Bariloche, El Calafate
	Peru	Trekking, cultural exploration	Machu Picchu, Cusco, Sacred Valley, Arequipa
Africa	Kenya	Wildlife safaris, the Great Migration	Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Nairobi
	Egypt	Desert exploration, ancient sites	Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea Resorts
Oceania	Australia (Southern Regions)	Road trips, hiking, wildlife	Melbourne, Great Ocean Road, Tasmania, Blue Mountains
	Fiji	Beach escapes, water activities	Nadi, Yasawa Islands, Taveuni, Coral Coast
Hidden Gems	Georgia	Wine tasting, mountain hikes, cultural exploration	Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Kakheti
	Slovenia	Alpine beauty, fairytale lakes	Lake Bled, Ljubljana, Triglav National Park
	Madagascar	Unique wildlife, tropical beaches	Avenue of the Baobabs, Nosy Be, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Best Countries to Visit in September

Here’s a detailed guide to the best countries to visit in September, organized by continent, along with the top places to explore within each country and reasons why September is ideal for travel.

Europe

Greece

September is one of the best months to visit Greece, offering warm weather, crystal-clear seas, and significantly fewer tourists. It’s ideal for cultural exploration and island-hopping adventures.

Best places to visit:

Santorini: Enjoy iconic sunsets and wine-tasting without the heavy crowds.
Crete: Explore ancient ruins like Knossos, hike Samaria Gorge, and relax on Elafonissi Beach.
Athens: Mild temperatures for exploring the Acropolis, museums, and local street cafes.
Naxos & Paros: Quieter alternatives to Mykonos with authentic Cycladic charm.

Spain

Spain blends late-summer sunshine with vibrant cultural festivals and harvest season events in September. The heat mellows, making sightseeing more comfortable.

Best places to visit:

Barcelona: Home to the La Mercè Festival, Gaudí’s architecture, and beachside relaxation.
Seville & Granada: Andalusian cities rich in Moorish heritage and flamenco performances.
Costa Brava: Rugged coastline, charming villages, and warm sea for swimming.
La Rioja: Wine lovers can join grape harvest festivals and vineyard tours.

Croatia

Croatia in September offers the beauty of the Adriatic coast with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for nature and cultural travel.

Best places to visit:

Dubrovnik: Stroll along ancient city walls with panoramic sea views.
Split: Explore Diocletian’s Palace and nearby islands like Hvar.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Ideal for hiking through waterfalls and forested trails.
Korčula: A quieter island with medieval charm and vineyards.

France

With wine harvest season in full swing and autumn colors starting to appear, France becomes even more romantic and culturally rich in September.

Best places to visit:

Paris: Enjoy outdoor cafes, Seine river cruises, and lesser crowd at major attractions.
Burgundy & Alsace: Discover vineyards, wine routes, and harvest festivals.
Loire Valley: Explore fairy-tale castles and lush countryside.
Provence: Catch the tail-end of lavender season and local markets.

Asia

China

September brings clear skies, cooler temperatures, and fewer tourists—ideal for exploring major cultural and historical sites.

Best places to visit:

Beijing: Visit the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and enjoy autumn colors in city parks.
Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors, Muslim Quarter, and city walls.
Guilin & Yangshuo: River cruises, karst mountains, and countryside biking.

Shanghai: Urban skyline, gardens, and the Bund.

Sri Lanka

The east coast of Sri Lanka sees sunny skies and dry weather, perfect for beach lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Best places to visit:

Trincomalee & Passikudah: Clear waters, coral reefs, and diving.
Arugam Bay: One of the world’s top surf spots.
Sigiriya: Climb the Lion Rock and explore ancient frescoes.
Yala National Park: Spot elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.

Uzbekistan

A hidden gem for history and architecture lovers, Uzbekistan in September offers a comfortable climate for exploring its ancient Silk Road cities.

Best places to visit:

Samarkand: Stunning Islamic architecture and Registan Square.
Bukhara: Historic madrassas, mosques, and bustling bazaars.
Khiva: A Perfectly preserved medieval town.
Tashkent: A mix of Soviet heritage and modern Uzbek culture.

Americas

USA (Pacific Northwest)

The Pacific Northwest boasts cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and great conditions for scenic road trips and national park visits.

Best places to visit:

Seattle: Iconic landmarks, art museums, and waterfront dining.
Oregon Coast: Dramatic cliffs, Cannon Beach, and quiet coastal towns.
Columbia River Gorge: Waterfalls and fall foliage hikes.
San Juan Islands: Whale watching and kayaking adventures.

Argentina

As spring begins in the Southern Hemisphere, Argentina blooms with color, making it a great time for nature and wine tourism.

Best places to visit:

Mendoza: Wine tours and mountain views.
Buenos Aires: Tango shows, street art, and local cuisine.
Bariloche: Alpine lakes, chocolates, and hiking trails.
El Calafate: Beginning of access to glaciers and Los Glaciares National Park.

Peru

This is an excellent time for adventure, with the Andes still dry and skies clear, ideal for trekking and cultural exploration.

Best places to visit:

Machu Picchu: Best visibility and weather for the Inca Trail.
Cusco: Historic center, vibrant markets, and nearby ruins.
Sacred Valley: Terraced fields, traditional villages, and scenic beauty.
Arequipa: Colonial architecture and access to Colca Canyon.

Africa

Kenya

September is prime time for safaris, especially to witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara. Dry conditions make wildlife spotting easier.

Best places to visit:

Maasai Mara: Thousands of wildebeest crossing rivers.
Lake Nakuru: Flamingos, rhinos, and dramatic landscapes.
Amboseli: Elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop.

Nairobi: Museums, giraffe center, and wildlife sanctuary.

Egypt

Milder temperatures make it a pleasant time to explore ancient history and desert landscapes.

Best places to visit:

Cairo: Pyramids of Giza, Egyptian Museum, and bustling souks.
Luxor: Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.
Aswan: Temple of Philae and felucca rides.
Red Sea Resorts: Snorkeling and diving in Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.

Oceania

Australia (Southern regions)

Springtime begins in September, bringing wildflowers, wildlife activity, and perfect conditions for road trips and hikes.

Best places to visit:

Melbourne: Art scene, gardens, and food festivals.
Great Ocean Road: Scenic coastline with rock formations and surf beaches.
Tasmania: Wilderness trails, national parks, and fresh produce markets.
Blue Mountains: Hiking, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.

Fiji

September is the tail-end of Fiji’s dry season, offering sunny skies and calm seas, ideal for beach holidays and water sports.

Best places to visit:

Nadi: Gateway city with resorts and cultural sites.
Yasawa Islands: White sand beaches and crystal-clear lagoons.
Taveuni: Rainforest treks and waterfalls.
Coral Coast: Lagoon resorts and local experiences.

Real advice from real travelers who’ve been there. Let’s fine-tune your plans.

Hidden Gems & Offbeat Countries to Visit in September

Georgia

Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia is a rising star for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs.

Best places to visit:

Tbilisi: Old town charm, sulfur baths, and street art.
Kazbegi: Hike to Gergeti Trinity Church with mountain views.
Kakheti: Birthplace of wine with harvest activities.

Slovenia

This small yet diverse country offers alpine beauty, fairytale lakes, and lush forests in pleasant September weather.

Best places to visit:

Lake Bled: Row to the island church and enjoy lakeside walks.
Ljubljana: Pedestrian-friendly city with artistic cafes and green spaces.
Triglav National Park: Scenic hikes, gorges, and waterfalls.

Bhutan

Bhutan is ideal in September as the monsoon retreats, revealing misty mountains and vibrant festivals.

Best places to visit:

Paro: Home to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Thimphu: Local markets and monasteries.
Punakha: Majestic dzongs surrounded by rice paddies.

Madagascar

Unique wildlife, baobab trees, and tropical beaches make Madagascar a magical offbeat destination.

Best places to visit:

Avenue of the Baobabs: Surreal landscapes.
Nosy Be: Pristine beaches and marine life.
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park: Lemurs and rainforest trekking.

Why travel in September?

When it comes to planning the perfect holiday, timing is everything—and September is one of the best-kept secrets in the world of travel. Positioned between the high summer season and the onset of fall or spring (depending on the hemisphere), September offers unique advantages that seasoned travelers swear by.

Perfect weather without the crowds

In many parts of the world, September brings ideal weather conditions. Europe enjoys warm days and cooler nights, Southeast Asia begins to see the end of the monsoon season, and southern countries like Argentina and Australia start to bloom into spring. Unlike peak summer months, you’ll find far fewer tourists at popular sites, beaches, and trails, meaning less waiting, more exploring.

Shoulder season = lower costs

Since September falls in the “shoulder season” for many destinations, you’ll benefit from significantly reduced prices on flights, hotels, and tour packages. Whether you’re backpacking across Asia or indulging in a luxury escape in Europe, traveling in September often means more value for your money.

Seasonal festivals and cultural events

September is rich with vibrant cultural experiences. From wine harvest festivals in France and grape-picking events in Georgia to traditional moon festivals in East Asia and music festivals in the U.S. and Europe, the month is alive with celebration. These immersive events give travelers a deeper connection to local traditions and a chance to experience a destination like a local.

Nature at its best

Nature puts on a spectacular show in September. In the north, autumn begins to color forests and vineyards, creating postcard-worthy scenery, especially in places like Canada, Romania, and Slovenia. In the southern hemisphere, it’s the start of spring, when wildflowers bloom in Australia and wildlife becomes more active in countries like South Africa and New Zealand.

Great for outdoor adventures

Milder weather in many parts of the world makes September an excellent month for hiking, trekking, and outdoor activities. Think Machu Picchu without the crowds, the Great Migration in Kenya, or cycling through Tuscany’s countryside. Whether you’re into adrenaline-packed adventures or slow travel, the conditions are just right.

A quieter, more authentic experience

With fewer tourists around, September travel often means more authentic local interactions. Restaurants and markets are less busy, locals are more relaxed post-peak season, and there’s space to truly soak in a destination’s rhythm. It’s the kind of travel that’s more meaningful, immersive, and connected.

In short, September is a dream month for travelers, offering the best of both worlds: good weather and good value. Whether you’re after culture, nature, adventure, or peace, this is the month to pack your bags and go.

Best travel experiences in September

Wine and food festivals across Europe

Grape Harvest Season in France (Burgundy, Alsace), Spain (La Rioja), and Italy (Tuscany) offer immersive vineyard experiences, wine tastings, and local harvest feasts.
La Mercè Festival in Barcelona features fireworks, music, and Catalan traditions.
Truffle Hunts and Farmers’ Markets in Croatia and Slovenia offer fresh, seasonal culinary delights.

Trekking and hiking in Asia and South America

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, Peru: September offers clear skies and ideal trekking conditions.
Annapurna & Langtang Trails, Nepal: Pre-monsoon greenery and fewer crowds make September a great time to hike.
Bhutan’s Himalayan Trails: Post-monsoon clarity and cultural festivals create an enriching trekking experience.
Tiger Leaping Gorge, China: Breathtaking hikes through dramatic gorges and cliffside paths.

Wildlife and safari experiences in Africa

Great Migration in Kenya’s Maasai Mara: Witness river crossings and predator-prey drama.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: Drier trails make it easier to reach gorilla habitats in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Whale Watching in South Africa: Hermanus and the Western Cape are excellent spots in September.
Bird Watching in Madagascar: Endemic bird species and mating season make it a paradise for birders.

Beach escapes in Oceania and South Asia

Yasawa Islands, Fiji: Ideal water clarity for snorkelling, diving, and beach lounging.
Trincomalee & Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka: Sunny skies and warm seas for surfing and dolphin watching.
Whitsundays, Australia: Sailing, white sand beaches, and access to the Great Barrier Reef.
Bali’s East Coast: Quieter beaches with great conditions for diving and relaxing.

Cultural festivals and events

Thimphu Tshechu, Bhutan: A vibrant Buddhist festival with masked dances and traditional rituals.
Moon Festival, China: Also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, this celebration includes lantern displays and mooncakes.
Independence Day in Mexico (September 16): Colorful parades and nationwide celebrations.
Georgia’s Rtveli Festival: Traditional wine harvest festivities with folk music and regional cuisine.

Scenic drives and road Trips

Great Ocean Road, Australia: September’s blooming wildflowers and cool breezes make it ideal.
Pacific Northwest, USA: Oregon and Washington state offer coastal and forest drives with early fall colors.
Alpine Routes, Slovenia and Switzerland: Enjoy mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and quaint villages.

Island-hopping and sailing adventures

Greek Isles: Perfect sailing weather without the summer rush.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia: Charter a boat to explore Hvar, Korčula, and Vis.
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: September is quieter and offers unique marine and wildlife encounters.

Stories you will want to live

Real travelers. Rare journeys. Right time.

September isn’t just a shoulder season—it’s the travel world’s best-kept secret. While the crowds fade and the weather hits its sweet spot, our travelers are out there living their dream adventures—from the vineyards of Europe to the plains of Africa. Here’s what they have to say about choosing the unbeaten path in the perfect month.

Catch the September vibes

September is the perfect time to experience the world in a way that’s uniquely yours, with Flying Squirrel Holidays by your side. Imagine exploring hidden gems, discovering vibrant festivals, and savoring the best weather—all without the usual crowds. Whether it’s trekking in the Himalayas, savoring wine in the heart of Europe, or relaxing on pristine beaches, the opportunities in September are waiting for you.

But here’s the catch: September won’t last forever, and these unforgettable moments are just a fleeting opportunity. You don’t want to hear about these amazing experiences from others—you want to live them. And with Flying Squirrel Holidays, you’ll be guided to the best spots, with the perfect mix of adventure and luxury, all tailored to your tastes.

This is your moment. Don’t let it slip away! With Flying Squirrel Holidays, your September escape is just a click away. The perfect weather, fewer crowds, and unforgettable experiences are waiting. Pack your bags, book with us, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

The adventure of a lifetime is right here—let’s make it happen. Don’t miss out on September’s best travel moments. Ready to go? Flying Squirrel Holidays is here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us at ‪+91 33 40525777‬ / ‪+91 833 697 8737‬Email us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com

Love planning your holidays around the best months to travel? We’ve got you covered for the entire season. Check out our curated guides for the upcoming months:

October Escapes – Where to Travel in October: Fall Foliage, Festivals & Fewer Crowds
November Journeys – Best Destinations to Visit in November for Culture, Sun & Adventure
December Magic – Top Places to Visit in December – Winter Wonderlands & Warm Retreats