These Incredible Destinations Are Perfect to Visit in September
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After Labor Day when the summer season officially ends, the kids head back to school, and the dog days of summer are (mostly) behind us, it can feel like your prime vacation window is behind you—however, that couldn’t be further from the truth. If you can swing it, September is actually an excellent month to travel. In many parts of the world, you’ll beat the summer crowds, enjoy shoulder season prices, and still get to enjoy warm weather. From Atlanta to Vienna, here are the best places to travel in September—plus where to stay while you’re there.
Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico City is a dream destination for art and design lovers, and September is the ideal time to explore all that the city has to offer. With average temps in the high 60s and low 70s, you'll feel comfortable walking from museums and gardens to restaurants and shops.
Moab, Utah
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Utah's rugged red rock-filled deserts and sleep under the stars in one of Under Canvas's well-appointed glamping tents. Home to iconic Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, there's certainly no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy in Moab.
Greek Islands
Whether you're into partying all night, relaxing by the beach, or drinking wine from a local vineyard, there's a Greek island for every type of traveler. In September, you'll still get to enjoy warm weather and temperate water—making it the perfect time to enjoy beach-going, hiking, and boating—but without the crazy summer crowds.
New York City
The Big Apple is always a good idea, but it really comes to life in the early fall. Whether you're hoping to catch a runway show at New York Fashion Week or just enjoy the incredible restaurants, Broadway shows, and shopping the city has to offer, you really can't go wrong.
Casablanca, Morocco
Casablanca has mild year-round temperatures, but September is an especially beautiful time to explore this dynamic city's beautiful beaches, dazzling architecture, palatial mosques, and vibrant arts scene.
Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest, anyone? Head to Munich, the birthplace of Oktoberfest, from September 21 to October 6 for traditional German food, music, carnival rides, parades, and, of course, lots of beer. It's a one-of-a-kind celebration you simply must attend at least once in your life.
Barcelona, Spain
The colorful city of Barcelona is an absolute dream for art and design lovers with its beautiful parks, stunning architecture, and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. You could spend weeks marveling at Sagrada Família, Museu Picasso, Fundació Joan Miró, MUHBA, and all the incredible landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí. And don't even get us started on the patatas bravas and sangria.
Big Sur, California
Big Sur is a sight to see in the early fall with its favorable weather, smaller crowds, and beautiful natural landscape. Whether you choose to hike in one of the many nearby state parks, head to the beach for the day, or indulge in a luxe spa treatment at your hotel, you surely won't be disappointed.
September is also a truly special time to visit Big Sur, as thousands of monarch butterflies flock to the area during their annual migration. It's also peak time to spot humpback, blue and killer whales, so make sure to book a boat tour.
Atlanta, Georgia
Early fall is the ideal time to visit Atlanta, since the weather is still quite warm (perfect for strolling along the Beltline!). This month, you can also taste your way through the city’s best restaurants and sample fare from local chefs during the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival.
If you’re a sports fan, make sure to catch an Atlanta Falcons game, Braves double header, or Atlanta United match while you’re in town. And don’t miss The High Museum of Art, which boasts an incredible collection of African, American, folk and contemporary art.
Rome, Italy
There’s never a bad time to visit Rome, but September offers cooler weather and fewer crowds than summer. Plus, this September, Rome will host the Ryder Cup, one of the most coveted sporting events of the year.
For some of the best rooftop views of the city, stay at the historic Hotel Eden. There, you’ll also enjoy beautiful architecture, a lush spa and the surrounding Villa Borghese gardens.
Livingston, Montana
Channel your inner Dutton and head to the Montana mountains for some seriously chic Yellowstone glamping. Under Canvas in North Yellowstone is just 45 minutes from Bozeman, but feels like another world with its breathtaking views of the Yellowstone River, snow-capped mountains, and verdant landscapes.
Whether you partake in world-class fly fishing, go for a leisurely river float, try white water rafting, ride horses, or hike through Yellowstone National Park, there’s truly something for everyone. September offers cool but temperate weather, with highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s.
St Andrews, Scotland
Scotland is a must-visit destination for avid golfers, and September is an excellent time to visit since you’ll enjoy more accessible tee times and less congestion on the course. Take in the beautiful seaside, sip some local scotch, and enjoy legendary courses like St Andrews, North Berwick, Royal Troon, Royal Dornoch (all of which are driving distance apart).
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
September and October are referred to as the “second summer” on the Cape because the weather is still ideal for beach strolls, clambakes and whale watching—but you can enjoy the perk of shoulder season rates.
Chatham Bars Inn is known for their popular farm dinners, which take place at its eight-acre farm through the month of September. Book this extraordinary dining experience ASAP, as it tends to sell out quickly.
Vienna, Austria
Get ready for a culture-filled trip, as September marks the start of opera season in Vienna. Additionally, September kicks off harvest season for over 1,700 nearby vineyards, so you're likely to try some delicious wine while you're there!
Stay at Almanac Palais Vienna, which overlooks Stadtpark, the city’s first public green space. The hotel is also walking distance from local landmarks such as the Vienna State Opera House and the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK).
Willamette Valley, Oregon
This burgeoning wine destination is home to incredible vineyards (and some of the best pinot noir in the world!). Whether you’re looking for delicious farm-to-table food, natural hot springs, biking, paddling, or vineyard-hopping, you’re bound to have a great time in Willamette Valley.
Stay in nearby McMinnville—the historic downtown is chock full of charming boutiques, restaurants and breweries (and is under an hour’s drive to most Willamette Valley vineyards).
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