Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape or Golden Horn) famous turquoise beach in Bol town on Brac Island, Dalmatia, Croatia.

Best holiday destinations in September

September is one of our most popular travelling months – the summer holiday crowds have departed, and temperatures are that little bit cooler (making walking and sightseeing a lot more comfortable). But where should you choose for a holiday in September? We could pick out dozens of fantastic destinations, but here are some of our top recommendations.

Croatia

With its stunning Mediterranean coastline, speckled with more than a thousand pine-clad islands, Croatia is a stunning destination. From ancient walled cities and sparking sapphire seas to rich heritage and diverse cuisine, and on our holidays and small ship cruises we’ll experience them all. September means less crowds and more festivals, so it’s the ideal time to explore.

Armenia and Georgia

Armenia and Georgia aren’t your typical holiday destinations. They’re forging their own identities following the era of the Soviet Union, making it a fascinating time to explore these countries as they transition. Head there now and you’ll witness an incredible kaleidoscope of autumnal colours, as well as sample the harvest haul of fresh produce from the region.

Spain

Family favourite Spain is a great choice come September, when the kids go back to school and the crowds begin to die down. And while there’s less people to jostle with for space on beaches and in restaurants, the weather’s still beautiful, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures soaring into the late 20s.

Cyprus

The peak summer months of Cyprus can be unbearably hot, which makes September a great time to visit the picture-perfect Mediterranean isle. It’s still warm enough for swimming and sunbathing – average day time temperatures hover at around 30 degrees – but sightseeing UNESCO-listed sites is a lot more comfortable.

Madeira

After the long hot subtropical summer, Madeira’s Atlantic shallows are the perfect temperature for swimming in September. Evenings are still mild – ideal for al fresco dining – there’s hardly any rain, and the locals are celebrating the grape harvest in readiness for producing the island’s most famous export, Madeira wine.

Portugal

September’s a great time to visit Portugal. The kids have gone back to school – leaving the swimming pools less crowded – and summer temperatures are starting to dip. This means you can enjoy evening strolls accompanied by a cool breeze as well as comfortable city sightseeing in Lisbon. Also, the sea’s warm but without the large waves associated with autumn.

Italy

Italians tend to look towards their winter wardrobes in September. For travellers, however, you’ll find pleasant day time temperatures creating ideal conditions for visiting Venice and Rome. Tuscany, too, is a picture in September with industrious grape pickers working the vineyards and cyclists enjoying hill climbs in cooler climes.

Montenegro

The mountains, rivers and lakes of Montenegro sing to the sounds of activity lovers during September. This is one of the best months for hiking over wildflower covered hillsides and enjoying bountiful picnics packed with juicy tomatoes, fresh cut cucumbers and the sweetest of sticky figs. Head to the coast and you’ll find warm waves and fewer crowds.

South Africa

South Africa really is an exciting destination. Combining cosmopolitan cities, dramatic coastlines, sun-dappled vineyards and diverse landscapes, one visit will never be enough. And September is perhaps one of the best wildlife spotting months – nearing the end of the dry season, with waterholes diminishing, animals are easier to spot if you choose to go on safari.

Costa Rica

In Costa Rica, see bottle-green rainforests and cloud forests shrouded in mist. Brooding volcanoes watching over hot springs and pineapple plantations. It is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world, where the variety of wildlife is in endless. In Tortuguero, turtle hatching season runs until December. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see them. A real once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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