Recently updated on October 21st, 2025 at 05:38 pm
The month of September may signal the end of the traditional ‘summer’, but that definitely doesn’t mean the holiday season is over. In fact, September is the perfect time of year to visit some of Europe’s most popular destinations. As late summer drifts into early autumn, the stifling heat begins to abate, the crowds lessen, and local life begins again as regions gather to celebrate the harvest season. A truly magical time of year throughout the continent, here are the nine best places to visit in Europe in September for a spectacular getaway.
1. Visit the United Kingdom in September for fantastic fall hiking
Average September temperatures in the UK: 48-62°F (9-17°C)
The British countryside is at its finest in September as the deep green forests become speckled with orange and red; there are few better places in Europe to witness the changing of the leaves. The weather in September actually tends to be a bit warmer and drier than August, making it the perfect time for a long stroll through Trossachs National Park on the border of the Scottish Highlands or a scenic drive through England’s Lake District. And, as the busy season has come to an end, you’ll be able to enjoy more of the local hospitality the Brits are famous for. There are also dozens of local festivals to celebrate the harvest season over a pint of ale or a nip of whiskey.
2. Visit Italy in September for wine and truffles
Average September temperatures Italy: 68-79°F (20-26°C)
Let’s be honest, there is no bad time of year to visit Italy, but the boot-shaped peninsula is truly at its best during the late summer. The crowds are dying down, the intense summer heat is giving way to a pleasant warm breeze, but the food and wine scene is just heating up. Harvest festivals take place all around the country, each region offering a tantalising array of seasonal dishes. And the wine harvests are also coming in, so local wine festivals are plentiful, providing the perfect opportunity to sample the latest vintages. September is also the perfect time of year to head to the coast to enjoy a few days at the beach. The temperatures are still warm, but not oppressively hot, and the crowds are a fraction of what they are in the August high season.
Historical sites and local cuisine are a feast for the senses on our Best of Italy tour.
3. Visit Ireland in September for seafood and fewer crowds
Average September temperatures in Ireland: 48-55°F (9-13°C)
The Emerald Isle starts turning shades of amber in September as the leaves put on a spectacular autumn show. There is a sharp dip in tourist numbers in Ireland in September, but this month still falls within the “shoulder season”, so the small villages and quaint B&Bs that operate seasonally will still be open, the Guinness still flowing. One of the highlights of this month is the annual Galway International Oyster and Seafood Festival, the most recognized international celebration in Ireland after Saint Patrick’s Day. Fresh from the boat seafood and plenty of knee-slapping live music marks this culinary extravaganza.
Enjoy a farmhouse lunch and a river cruise on our Best of Ireland tour.
4. Visit Spain in September for its beaches and festivals
While cooler temperatures are settling in over much of mainland Europe, the summer sun is still shining bright in Spain during the month of September. There’s no better time to hit the beaches that stretch from Barcelona to the Costa del Sol or sample the local harvests in this gastronomical mecca. And, as in Italy, the wine harvests are coming in, so head to any village to watch the locals roll up their pants and battle it out in a grape stomping competition. The oranges and reds that dot treetops in much of northern Europe can be found blanketing the endless vineyards as the grape leaves change colour marking the change of the season.
5. Visit Poland in September for its harvest markets
Average September temperatures in Poland: 52-68°F (11-20°C)
There’s a phenomenon in Poland called “Golden Autumn” that is much-anticipated by locals and tourists alike. During roughly two weeks of every year, the leaves of the towering oak and sycamore trees change from green to gold, and the shortening days mean the sun shines at an angle that perfectly illuminates the gilded treetops. The weather is cooling down, and the crowds have left the major cities like Krakow and Warsaw, and with harvests coming in, the local markets are brimming with fresh produce and locally made goods. Similar to the UK, September sees less rainfall than the summer months, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy this magical moment in time.
Immerse yourself in Polish history and culture on our Best of Poland tour.
6. Visit Germany in September for its beer
Average September temperatures in Germany: 52-70°F (11-21°C)
You can’t talk about September in Germany without talking about Oktoberfest. The legendary beer festival makes Germany one of the best places to visit in September. Munich’s iconic celebration is obviously a great starting point, but don’t be afraid to belly-up to towns outside of Bavaria. Berlin, for example, hosts September events like Berlin Art Week, Musikfest Berlin, and the BMW Berlin Marathon each year.
7. Visit Croatia in September for its national parks
Average September temperatures in Croatia: 61-75°F (16-24°C)
Thanks to the prequel series, Croatia is still a popular set-jetting destination for Game of Thrones fans. Many visitors, however, still haven’t discovered just how amazing the country’s landscape is in its interior. Croatia’s eight national parks, including the waterfall-filled Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park, are wonderful places for hiking and other outdoor activities in September.
8. Visit San Marino in September to celebrate the world’s oldest republic
Average September temperatures in San Marino: 60-80°F (15-27°C)
San Marino, a micronation landlocked by Italy, is celebrates its National Day and Feast of St. Marinus in September. Though only 100km east of Florence, many visitors miss out on this unique country. San Marino, which has its own football team despite being the world’s fifth-smallest sovereign nation, has gorgeous architecture like the Three Towers: 11th century citadels capping Mount Titano’s peaks.
9. Visit Estonia in September for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Average September temperatures in Estonia: 54-63°F (12-17°C)
If you’ve yet to visit the Baltics, let Estonia be your first stop. Tallinn is one of the best places to visit in Europe in September for the well-traveled who are seeking new history, culture, and cuisine away from the west. Yes, it’s a bit chiller here than along the French Riviera, but you won’t regret throwing on a jacket. Estonia has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Struve Geodetic Arc, which is shared by 10 countries over a 2820km triangulation, and Old Town Tallinn. Explore this stunning country which will surprise you with its award-winning sparkling wine tasting and some of the cleanest air quality in the world.
FAQ
What is the weather like in Europe in September?
September weather varies greatly across September: you could work on your tan at a Spanish beach then take a quick flight to northern Norway for skiing. Generally, most countries are seeing the arrival of a crisp autumn breeze, shorter hours of daylight, and sparks of fiery red leaves amongst the trees.
Where is it hot in Europe in September?
Technically, the hottest temperatures you’ll find in Europe during September are in Spain’s Canary Islands, but that’s only because the archipelago is part of the African continent. Countries on the European continent like Malta, southern Spain, and southern Italy have the hottest temperatures compared to neighboring countries like France, Slovenia, and Greece.
What should I wear in Europe in September?
You could probably be comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt if you’re sticking to the far south of Europe, but most travelers will want to wear comfortable pants, breathable shirts, and have a light jacket on hand for cooler nights. Unless you’re hiking high in the mountains, you likely won’t need extra layers for bundling up.
What are the best beaches to visit in Europe in September?
Greece, Cyprus, Spain, and Malta — really, most countries in the Mediterranean — have warm ocean waters in September. Consider checking out beaches like Aphrodite’s Beach in Cyprus, Darielos Beach in Albania, Paradises Beach in Malta, and Prasonisi Beach on Rhodes Island in Greece.
What festivals or events happen in Europe in September?
Even though temperatures and crowds aren’t as high as in the summer, Europe has no shortage of amazing events in September. Head to Spain for the San Sebastian Film Festival and the La Mercè Festival in Barcelona. Asti’s Festival of Festivals in Italy, along with Douja d’Or and Palio, is one of the town’s three landmark food and drink festivals in September. If you’ve had your fill of foodie fests, consider heading up to the UK for the St Ives September Festival: a two-week music and arts festival.
What should I pack for a trip to Europe in September?
Your luggage will feel a little heavier on a trip to Europe in September compared to the summer. The flip flops can stay at home (unless you’re going to the beach) but you should still pack sunscreen and a hat to protect against the last strong streams of sunshine. A lightweight jacket is ideal for spending nights outdoors. Also, consider at least one dressier outfit; al fresco dining is wonderful at this time of year.
September travel may be one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, but at Trafalgar, we have long known the appeal of a shoulder season holiday. Check out our travel deals to get amazing last minute discounts to see these fantastic destinations.