When summer sunshine fades and we move into the “ber” months, some people are tempted to cozy-up at home, while others are keen to take off on a fall adventure and reap the advantages of the shoulder-season.
You might already know that September is one of the best times to plan a trip: the summer crowds are thinning, the weather is often mild, and, in many places, prices drop enough to make travel more affordable.
If this is news to you, you might be thinking: Cheaper flights? Easier bookings? Cooler weather and fewer people? Where do I sign up? September also happens to be filled with seasonal events and festivals, making certain destinations particularly special this time of year.
Here are a few destinations worth considering if you’re on the fence about where to travel in September.
Munich, Germany – Oktoberfest begins
Something of a misnomer, Munich’s Oktoberfest actually kicks off in late September rather than October as the name suggests. The world’s largest beer festival combines Bavarian culture, food, parades, and of course, plenty of beer.
While the weather in Germany this time of year might be considered somewhat crisp, it’s still warm enough to be pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing when you are not at the festival grounds.
Barcelona, Spain – La Mercè Festival
Every September Barcelona hosts the La Mercè Festival. A city-wide celebration that features concerts, fireworks, and parades, this event, wildly enough, also includes human tower-building competitions. One of the most vibrant times to visit, locals fill the streets to celebrate Catalan culture.
Also worth noting is the fantastic September weather in Spain. It’s warm but not sweltering, which is ideal for beach days and evening strolls through the Gothic Quarter.
Japan – Autumn begins
If you’ve been dreaming of a Japanese getaway but aren’t keen on the heavy humidity of the summer or the big crowds of cherry blossom season in the spring, then September in Japan is calling your name. Early autumn temperatures of cooler weather equals fewer tourists, especially in cultural hubs like Kyoto and Nara.
Catch the beginning of stunning fall foliage of Japan’s northern regions like Hokkaido. Sumo season in Tokyo also offers a unique experience you’ll find nowhere else when planning where to travel in September.
New England, USA – Fall colors arrive
Another locale that boasts a September beginning of fall foliage is the northeastern United States. Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine are all famous for their beautiful and fiery autumn leaves, charming tiny towns, and rustic farm stands stocked with apples and maple sugar.
September also happens to be harvest season, which means many local wineries and breweries are buzzing. Compared to October, September offers lighter crowds and slightly lower prices with the same appeal for lovers of autumn.
Greece – Islands in the September sun
While the Greek islands are notoriously swarmed with tourists throughout July and August, by September, many ferries, hotels, and restaurants have calmed. Destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete still enjoy sunshine and swimmable sea temperatures, but without the overwhelming tourist crowds.
September is the ideal time for relaxing on the beach, exploring Grecian ruins, and indulging in fresh seafood dinners overlooking the water.
