15 Best Places to Visit in September in Europe
Discover the best places to visit in September in Europe for the perfect shoulder season holiday.
September is one of my favourite months to travel. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is more manageable, and prices and slightly lower all around. This is the perfect time to plan a trip to Europe to capture some of that summer magic while enjoying the pros of fall.
Some places with be turning chilly with changing leaves, while others will still be in full summer mode – the range is endless. I love Europe during the month of September and think it is arguably the best month of the year for all factors of travel.
Below are 15 of the best places to visit in September in Europe for travelers of all kinds.
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In This Post
15 Best Places to Visit in September in Europe
Munich, Germany
Munich is one of the best places to visit in September in Europe. The weather is comfortable and ranges between 11°C (52°F) and 20°C (68°F) depending on when you visit. With this in mind, it is best to pack layers just in case.
Beyond the weather, Munich hosts one of the biggest celebrations in all of Europe during this month – Oktoberfest! The world’s most famous beer festival where you can immerse yourself in Bavarian culture and a fun, atmosphere.
Contrary to its name, Oktoberfest runs from mid-September to the beginning of October, even though most people think it’s in October. In 2023 Oktober fest runs from Sat, Sep 16, 2023 – Tue, Oct 3, 2023.
In addition to Oktoberfest, you can enjoy the picturesque English Garden, visit the iconic Marienplatz square, and explore historic landmarks like Nymphenburg Palace. Munich offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As a result, it is one of the top places to visit in September.
Porto, Portugal
Porto, Portugal, is a fantastic destination to visit in September. With pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, it’s an ideal time to explore this charming city. The average temperatures are between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities.
Wander through the narrow streets of the historic Ribeira district, marvel at the stunning architecture of Porto Cathedral, and sample the famous Port wine in the cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia. September offers a great balance of comfortable weather and a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy Porto’s beauty fully.
Malaga, Spain
Malaga is one of the best places to visit in Europe in September. With warm weather and little rain, it’s an excellent time to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. The average temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 29°C (84°F), providing idyllic summer weather perfect for enjoying the stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
September also sees fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more relaxed and immersive experience. Don’t miss the iconic Alcazaba fortress, visit the Picasso Museum, and indulge in delicious tapas. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion or beach relaxation, Malaga in September offers the perfect combination.
Prague, Czechia
Prague in September offers warm weather and smaller crowds, it is my favorite month to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
Expect temperatures between 12°C (54°F) to 20°C (68°F), making it ideal for strolling through Prague’s charming streets and historic sites. September is considered shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Take a walk across the iconic Charles Bridge, explore Prague Castle, and immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture. Additionally, you can enjoy pleasant boat rides along the Vltava River and indulge in traditional Czech cuisine at cozy local restaurants.
September also brings the vibrant Prague Autumn music festival, featuring classical concerts and cultural events throughout the city. Prague’s beauty, combined with milder weather and fewer crowds, makes it one of the best places to visit in September in Europe.
Provence, France
Provence, France, is a captivating region to visit in September. With its Mediterranean climate, September offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. The average temperature ranges from 17°C (63°F) to 25°C (77°F), making it ideal for exploring the stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites.
Provence is renowned for its picturesque lavender fields, vineyards, and olive groves, which are in full bloom during this time.
Wander through the enchanting streets of towns like Aix-en-Provence and Avignon, visit the iconic Pont du Gard, and indulge in the delectable Provençal cuisine. September also brings various cultural events and festivals celebrating local traditions, such as the grape harvest festivals and traditional Provençal markets.
With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more authentic and immersive experience, whether exploring the natural beauty or savoring the rich cultural heritage of Provence.
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is one of the most romantic places to visit in September in Europe. With pleasant weather and slightly fewer crowds compared to the summer peak season, it’s an ideal time to explore this iconic region. You will find average temperatures between 17°C (63°F) to 26°C (79°F), creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
September is also the beginning of the harvest season, offering a unique opportunity to witness and participate in grape harvesting and wine-making traditions.
Discover the charming cities of Florence, Siena, and Pisa, with their historic landmarks and breathtaking art. Explore the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages.
Additionally, September brings food festivals and events, allowing you to savor the delectable Tuscan cuisine and world-renowned wines. With fewer tourists around, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural heritage of Tuscany, making September an excellent time to experience the region’s charms.
Corsica, France
Corsica is an island off the coast of France with a Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches, and charming towns. It’s one of the world’s most underrated travel destinations and one of my favorite hidden gems in Europe.
September in Corscia offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore this stunning island. The average temperature ranges from 19°C (66°F) to 25°C (77°F), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and beach relaxation. Corsica boasts beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Discover the vibrant coastal towns like Ajaccio and Bonifacio, known for their historic sites and charming streets. Hike along the famous GR20 trail or explore the Corsican Natural Parks for an immersive nature experience. September also brings cultural events such as music festivals and traditional celebrations, allowing you to experience the local traditions and cuisine.
With fewer tourists, you can fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural richness of Corsica, making it one of the best places to visit in September in Europe.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
As a resident of Amsterdam for 5 years, I can confirm Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in September in Europe. With mild weather and manageable crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore this vibrant city. Expect 12°C (54°F) to 19°C (66°F) days, making it comfortable for walking and cycling along the city’s picturesque canals.
September marks the transition from summer to autumn, offering a pleasant and colorful atmosphere. Visit some of the best Amsterdam museums like the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. Explore the charming neighborhoods of Jordaan and De Pijp, known for their quaint streets and local markets.
While there will still be tourists in the city, the crowds are generally smaller compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Enjoy the unique blend of history, culture, and beauty that Amsterdam has to offer in September.
Interlaken, Switzerland
Interlaken is one of the top places to visit in September in Europe. With pleasant weather and moderate crowds, it’s an excellent time to explore this picturesque Alpine region. The average temperature ranges from 10°C (50°F) to 19°C (66°F), creating comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
September offers a blend of late summer and early autumn, with beautiful foliage adding to the scenic charm. Interlaken is renowned for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, including the Jungfrau, Eiger, and Mönch peaks.
Explore the enchanting villages of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, take scenic train rides, and enjoy hiking or mountain biking in the surrounding nature.
While there may still be tourists in Interlaken, the crowds tend to be smaller compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more serene experience. Embrace the natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and tranquil atmosphere that Interlaken offers in September.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest in September welcomes mild weather and manageable crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore this historic city. With temperature averages of 13°C (55°F) to 23°C (73°F), Budapest offers comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
September has the perfect transition from summer to autumn, with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season. Discover iconic landmarks such as the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament, and the Chain Bridge. Take a relaxing stroll along the Danube River or indulge in a thermal bath experience at one of the city’s famous thermal spas.
September also brings various cultural events and festivals, including the Budapest Wine Festival and the Budapest International Documentary Festival. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and architectural wonders that Budapest has to offer in September, with a more relaxed and immersive experience.
Rome, Italy
September is the ideal time to explore the Eternal City of Rome, with temperatures between 17°C (63°F) to 26°C (79°F). September has the perfect blend of late summer and early autumn, with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.
Explore iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere or relax in one of Rome’s beautiful parks.
September also brings cultural events like the Settembre Musica festival, showcasing classical and contemporary music performances. Indulge in the delectable Roman cuisine and savor a gelato while wandering through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, September allows you to immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and culinary delights of Rome.
Valetta, Malta
Valletta, the capital city of Malta, is one of the top places to visit in September in Europe. With pleasant weather and moderate crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore this historic and picturesque city.
The average temperature ranges from 21°C (70°F) to 28°C (82°F.). September offers a balance between the summer heat and the cooler autumn months.
Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts stunning architecture, including the impressive St. John’s Co-Cathedral and the Grandmaster’s Palace. Take a leisurely stroll along the fortified walls and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Discover the charming streets, visit the vibrant markets, and indulge in delicious Maltese cuisine.
While there may still be tourists in Valletta, the crowds are generally smaller compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more intimate experience. Embrace the rich history, cultural heritage, and coastal beauty that make Valetta one of the best places to visit in September in Europe.
San Sebastian, Spain
San Sebastian is a beautiful city located in the Basque Country of Spain, with temperatures around 16°C (61°F) to 23°C (73°F). It is one of the best places to visit in September in Europe that offers comfortable conditions for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities.
September offers that ideal transition from summer to autumn, with fewer tourists than the peak summer season. San Sebastian is renowned for its stunning beaches, including La Concha and Zurriola, as well as its world-class cuisine. Indulge in the city’s famous pintxos, small bites of Basque gastronomy, and explore the charming Old Town.
This month also brings various cultural events, such as the San Sebastian International Film Festival, adding an exciting vibe to the city. With mild weather and a more relaxed atmosphere, September allows you to fully experience the beauty, culture, and culinary delights of San Sebastian.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is one of the top places to visit in September in Europe. With good weather (12°C (54°F) to 21°C (70°F)) and moderate crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore this historic and musical city.
September has with fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season making it ideal for exploring. Salzburg is renowned for its baroque architecture, including the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace.
Explore the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit Mozart’s birthplace. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Salzach River or take a day trip to the nearby stunning Lake District.
September also brings cultural events like the Salzburg Festival, featuring world-class music and performances. With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, September allows you to fully immerse yourself in the rich history, music, and cultural heritage of Salzburg.
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is one of the all-time best places to visit in September in Europe. With pleasant weather and manageable crowds, it’s an ideal time to explore this stunning lake region. The average temperatures are 15°C (59°F) to 24°C (75°F) perfect for days outdoors exploring.
Lake Como is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, charming lakeside towns, and luxurious villas. Take a leisurely boat ride across the lake, visit picturesque villages like Bellagio and Varenna, and admire the grandeur of Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta.
Enjoy delightful lakeside dining and savor the regional cuisine. September also brings wine festivals and cultural events, allowing you to experience the local traditions. With milder temperatures and fewer crowds, September provides an excellent opportunity to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of Lake Como.
Travel Insurance
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