best places to visit uk september

20 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

The United Kingdom is comprised of four countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. They offer beautiful scenery, charming villages, architectural treasures, and thrilling cities to explore. You also have the choice of stunning beaches on which to relax, walk, and in September, feel the last of the late summer warmth. If you love to hike and uncover hidden lakes, mountains and untouched islands, then Great Britain also offers countless national parks, country paths and small islands to discover. As the days get cooler and leaves start to change into their brilliant fall colours of red, burnt orange and yellow, where should you go? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in the UK in September.

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For other fantastic places to visit in the United Kingdom, please see:

• 26 Best Places To Visit In The UK In Summer ;
• 28 Best Places To Visit In The UK in June ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In The UK In July ; and
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The UK In August .

Best Places To Visit In The United Kingdom For A September Getaway

Here are 20 of the best places to visit in the Uk for a late summer or early fall vacation. I describe where they are located and why they are fantastic destinations to explore. In addition, the best things to do are highlighted, expected weather is set out, and the best ways to reach it are outlined. Overall, you will be excited by the choices and amazed at what awaits you in this beautiful part of the world.

Nottingham, England

Nowhere in Great Britain will give you that warm cozy feeling that autumn has arrived like visiting Nottingham in September. 

Being the home to Robin Hood, a trip to Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve should be at the top of your itinerary. Admire the fall foliage, watch the vibrant leaves fall and stroll through the forest that is steeped in history. 

To experience more of the local legend that was Robin Hood, book the Ezekial Bone’s Robin Hood Tour to be led around the city by an in-character local expert and see the locations made famous by the legends of Robin Hood. 

If people-watching is your thing, there is no better place than Old Market Square! It is the largest public square in the UK after Trafalgar in London and there is always something going on. The international market is held Wednesday to Saturday during the month of September and is definitely worth a trip.  

However, one of the most unique things to do in Nottingham is actually underground! Take a trip to the City of Caves , the UK’s largest network of caves, to explore the history of the city from a whole new level. 

In September, average temperatures range from 64 °F to 51 °F with about 7 days of rain.

Best Way To Reach Destination

The closest airport to Nottingham is the East Midlands Airport, a 30 minute drive. Alternatively, take the train 2 hours from London.

Hotel Recommendation

Gamston Lock, Nottingham by Marston’s Inns

Isle of Wight, England

The Isle of Wight is a picturesque island located just off the south coast of England. It is a popular summer spot so visiting for a September holiday allows you to get some of the last of the warm weather and sunshine without the crowds that come in July and August. 

If you love coastal life, then this is the place for you. The Isle of Wight offers a fantastic British beach experience. Areas like Ventnor, Sandown and Shanklin have huge sandy beaches with fish and chip shops, British pubs and cute beach huts. 

Other than the beach, the list of things to do on the Isle of Wight is endless! From theme parks, go-karting, medieval castles and museums, you will not struggle to fill your time. 

If you are visiting the Isle of Wight with kids, Tapnell Farm is always a hit! Not only can you meet the farm’s resident furry friends but the actual farm itself has some of the best views on the island.

Tapnell Farm also has some glamping accommodation options . Isle of Wight is known for its star gazing and what better way to watch the starry night than in the outdoors in a comfortable bed!

In September, average temperatures range from 57 °F to 48 °F with about 13 days of rain.

Fly into London, take the 1 hour 40 minutes train to Portsmouth and then catch the short ferry to the Isle of Wight. After that, it’s best to rent a car to explore the island. 

The Boathouse

Dinorwig, Wales

Dinorwig (or Dinorwic) is a charming village in the northwest of Wales, just above Snowdonia, famous for its slate quarry. It is one of the best places to visit in the UK in September.

Dinorwig is the epitome of Welsh culture and the locals are some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Expect to greet everyone wherever you go as you walk along paths, have a pint at the pub, or explore the small local shops.

The National Slate Museum is free to enter and teaches visitors the history of the slate quarry. This includes when it was in use and how the industry was ingrained in the country’s culture and infrastructure. 

Beyond the museum, Dinorwic Quarry is beautiful to walk around. Simply start from the car park and follow the marked trail to Allt Ddu. Continue following the route through several old buildings and you will eventually come to Dinorwig viewpoint where you can look out all the way to Snowdon. 

In September, average temperatures range from 61 °F to 52 °F with about 11 days of rain.

Fly into Manchester airport, rent a car and drive 2.5 hours to Dinorwig. 

Royal Victoria Hotel Snowdonia

The Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds is probably the most quintessentially British place you can visit in the UK. Located in the southwest of England, the Cotswolds is actually quite big and covers 5 different counties. The area is known for its quaint villages filled with old cottages and the beautiful British countryside. 

Due to its size, the best thing to do when visiting the Cotswolds is to just explore! Try to visit as many villages, town squares and local markets as possible. Go on country walks and enjoy the quiet surroundings and fresh air. 

In September, it will be quieter with lovely weather offering you the opportunity to explore without the crowds. In addition, you will be rewarded with stunning views of fall foliage later in the month.

A couple must-see destinations are the charming villages of Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water.

Bibury is home to the famous Arlington Row, a street filled with adorable cottages and Bourton-on-the-Water feels like you have travelled back in time as the houses and streets are hundreds of years old. There is a beautiful walk along the river and the village’s bridges.  

The Cotswolds has some amazing spas and country houses with the most popular being Calcot Manor Hotel and Spa . 

In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 49 °F with about 7 days of rain.

Although it is possible to get to the Cotswolds by public transport , you will likely want to hire a car in order to explore all that the area has to offer. From London, the Cotswolds is around a two hours drive.

The Double Red Duke

Lerwick, Scotland (Shetland Islands)

Shetland is a group of islands located 130 miles (210km) off the shore of northern Scotland and Lerwick is the island’s only town. It is one of the best destinations to visit in the United Kingdom for a September vacation.

Lerwick is stunning in all weathers. On a sunny day, you can see far out to sea and enjoy the clear turquoise waters, but on stormy days you can watch the huge waves hitting the cliffs and the shifting skies. Lucky for you, in September you will likely experience both kinds of weather!

A lot of people visit Lerwick to get away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. There are many areas on the island where you can’t even get a phone signal or electricity, making it the perfect remote retreat.

Explore Clickimin Broch, an example of stone built white round houses found only in Scotland, evidence of settlers thousands of years ago. 

Walk, explore or book a nature tour to discover the island’s range of wildlife including rare birds, whales, otters, and seals. 

In September, average temperatures range from 55 °F to 49 °F with about 12 days of rain.

Fly to Sumburgh Airport and either catch the bus or rent a car for the 33-minute drive.

Fort Charlotte

Plymouth, England

Plymouth is the largest city on England’s south coast. It is part of beautiful Devon, a historical city with hundreds of years of maritime history.

Every year in September, hundreds of people from both Devon and Cornwall flock to Plymouth harbor, The Barbican, every year to enjoy the annual Seafood and Harbour Festival . 

Food vendors and fishermen fill the city offering fresh local seafood, with cooking and fishing demonstrations. The Paella and fresh oyster stands have huge queues every year so be sure to get in line before you get too hungry! 

If you fancy a tipple, head to the Plymouth Gin Distillery for a guided tour or some delicious cocktails at the Refectory bar. 

Spend a day on Plymouth Hoe. With panoramic views of the Plymouth Sound, you can see all the way to Cornwall. Make sure you visit the remarkable lighthouse, Smeaton’s Tower, built in 1759. You can climb to the top and admire spectacular views of the coast and the ocean. 

In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 53 °F with about 8 days of rain.

You can fly into Bristol airport and drive 2-hours or take a 4-hours train ride from London. . 

Duke Of Cornwall Hotel

Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

This famous coastline spans 30 miles along the northern coast of Northern Ireland overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean. It is the perfect September break location in the UK. Rain or shine, the coastline has ample things to do. 

An obvious draw to the area is The Giants Causeway , Northern Ireland’s famous Unesco World Heritage Site. The Causeway is a breathtaking series of hexagonal rock columns emerging from the Ocean created by lava 6 million years ago. You are free to explore them as you wish, climbing and stepping from the shore out to the ocean.

Carrick-a-Rede is a pretty swinging rope bridge that you cross that connects the mainland to the tiny island off the coast. You have a relaxing walk with spectacular views along a paved coastal path to and from the bridge.

Crossing the bridge itself takes a bit of courage as you are 100 ft above the water, with crashing waves and large rocks below. However, it is safe and very exciting.

If the weather isn’t too kind, the Causeway Coast has an array of museums and galleries that are worth a visit. 

The Causeway Coast Discovery Centre is the perfect way to learn about the history of the people and the architecture of the area before sampling some delicious homemade scones and tea in the loft. 

Another popular attraction in the area is Old Bushmills Distillery located in County Antrim. This is where Bushmills Irish whiskey has been made since 1608 using water from their own stream. Take a tour, learn  its history and distilling process, and of course, sample some of their products. 

In September, average temperatures range from 59 °F to 49 °F with about 12 days of rain.

The easiest way to get to the coastline would be to fly into Belfast airport and rent a car.

Causeway Hotel

Lake District National Park, England

The Lake District is England’s largest National Park, located in Cumbria, in the northwest of England.

September is an ideal time to visit the Lake District as you can witness the changing of seasons while you enjoy the beautiful natural and scenic landscape.

Hiking and walking through the autumnal forests and around the lakes is the best way to experience the area. The area has endless trails of all lengths and difficulties including multi-day trails. The most popular trail is Fairfield Horseshoe which takes around 5.5 hours and offers dramatic grassy hills with great views over Helvellyn. 

Early autumn is the prime foraging season so you will find a lot of people out looking for berries, nuts, and mushrooms. They then offer their produce at the many food, and harvest festivals and markets hosted around Cumbria. The most popular being Keswick Outdoor Market, open Thursdays and Saturdays, and Kendal Indoor Market, open on Mondays.

The best way to explore the Lake District is to pick a few areas and travel between them by car. The most popular areas to use as a base are the market towns of Ambleside and Keswick, two pretty towns with great access to other areas of Lake District National Park. 

In September, average temperatures range from 59 °F to 49 °F with about 11 days of rain.

Fly into London and take a 3.5 hour train to Oxenholme. Alternatively, rent a car and drive 5 hours to the Lake District.

Bridge House Hotel & Silver Howe View Cottage

Aberystwyth, Wales

Aberystwyth is a bustling university town located in the middle of the Ceredigion coastline in mid-Wales. It is a fantastic destination to spend time in the United Kingdom in September.

You simply cannot visit Aberystwyth without a little trip on the cliff railway! This electric cliff railway is the oldest in the UK and has been running since the 1800s. If you can catch a ride at the perfect time, the top of the cliff is a great spot to watch the beautiful sunset over the horizon. 

Another must-visit is Aberystwyth Castle. Located on the seafront and dominating the landscape of the area, the first version of this castle was actually built in the early 12th century. Today you can walk around the castle ruins, through old rooms, and up the tower. 

Arguably, the pier and promenade are the main draws to the town. The pier itself goes right out to sea and offers great restaurants and bars, and even an arcade. The promenade is always lively and the personality of the area really shines here. 

In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 53 °F with about 10 days of rain.

Fly into Birmingham and take the train 3 hours.

Gwesty’r Marine Hotel & Spa

If you are open to considering other places around the world, here are some other fantastic destinations that would be great to visit in September:

• 25 Best Places To Visit In USA In September ;
• 23 Best Places To Visit In Europe In September ;
• 24 Best Beach Holidays in Europe In September ;
• 22 Best National Parks To Visit In Europe In September ; and
• 20 Best Places To Visit In Asia In September .

Leeds, England

Leeds is a city in Yorkshire, often skipped when people think of the best cities to visit in the UK. However, the amount of tourism in the area is increasing and for good reason. 

Leeds is an awesome city. It is lively, full of great shopping, and has a great mix of modern and historic architecture. 

Take a guided or self guided walking tour and see the best of the city’s shopping arcades and the rest of Leeds’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant culture. Those include the Town Hall which was the town’s power house, Kirkgate Market and Leeds City Variety Music Hall, a working theatre that is the nation’s oldest which opened in 1865. 

A great day trip from Leeds would be a 25 minutes northwest drive from the city center to Kirkstall Abbey . The medieval Cistercian Abbey is surrounded by beautiful greenery and is interesting to explore. The Visitor Center shares the fascinating history of the 12th-century monks that occupied it. 

In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 50 °F with about 8 days of rain.

Leeds is quite easily accessible from any airport in the north of England. However, Leeds Bradford airport is the most convenient as you can jump straight into a taxi into the city center. 

DoubleTree by Hilton Leeds

Dundee, Scotland

Dundee is a small city in eastern Scotland and one of the best places in the Uk for a September getaway.

Dundee is often skipped over by tourists due to the popularity of Edinburgh and Glasgow which is a shame. Dundee truly has so much to offer.

One of the city’s top attractions is The RRS Discovery . The Discovery Museum tells the ship’s story of its exploration of Antarctica for research in 1901 and its harrowing journey. You can climb aboard the ship and explore.

In addition make sure you visit the Old Steeple, Dundee’s oldest building dating back to the 1490s and the beautiful 19th century St Paul’s Cathedral.

During your Dundee trip, head out onto the water to see this beautiful city from a different perspective. From the river you can see the famous Tay Rail Bridge, one of the most recognisable landmarks in Dundee with a tragic past. In the late 19th century, during a terrible storm, the bridge collapsed when a railway passenger train was passing over it, killing everyone on board.

Dundee is also home to some amazing wildlife including The Tay dolphin pod and the Tentsmuir seal colony.

After a day of exploring, head to the city’s main square, Albert Square, and find a table at one of the many cool bars and restaurants nearby for some great people watching.

In September, average temperatures range from 60 °F to 47 °F with about 9 days of rain.

Fly into Aberdeen, Edinburgh, or Glasgow, rent a car and drive just over an hour.

Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa

Blackpool, England

Blackpool is the ultimate seaside destination in the UK. Visiting in September will help you skip the summer crowds while still enjoying the last of the summer sun. 

That being said, people head to Blackpool in September every year to watch the famous Blackpool illuminations being turned on for the first time, as well as the World Championship Fireworks which continue every Friday for the whole month. 

There truly is no better way to spend an evening in Blackpool than sitting along the promenade with some fish and chips and watching ‘The Lights’ turn on. 

An obvious must-do for any trip to Blackpool is Blackpool Pleasure Beach and the Pleasure Beach Amusement Park. Be sure to purchase a fast pass ticket to ensure you can ride as many of the attractions as possible. 

Blackpool as a city has excellent public transport making it easy to get around without your own vehicle. In fact, a trip on the tram is an activity in of itself and can take you down the full stretch of the coastline as well as around the city center. 

Whether you visit the Opera House, the beautiful Winter Gardens, or go to the top of Blackpool Tower, you will not struggle to find amazing things to do in Blackpool in September. 

In September, average temperatures range from 62 °F to 51 °F with about 10 days of rain.

The best way to visit Blackpool would be to fly to either London or Manchester, then take the train 1.5 hours from Manchester or 3 hours from London. 

Imperial Hotel Blackpool

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Located in the Scottish Highlands is the largest national park in the whole of the United Kingdom, Cairngorms National Park. 

If you are a fan of water sports, August and September are the best months to visit as the water is at its warmest. White water rafting, kayaking, water sledding, tubing, SUPing, and much more, Cairngorms has endless amounts of water activities. In addition, the annual triathlon is held in September and an inspiring event to watch.

For people who prefer to be on land, Cairngorms is the perfect hiking trip for a September break. With trails of all lengths and difficulties, there will be a scenic route for everyone in lovely weather suitable for outdoor adventures.

One of the most popular walks in the park is The Falls of Bruar . This is an easy hike at only a mile and a half long but really packs a punch! It includes two bridges and two impressive waterfalls. The steep path can get slippery so be careful on rainy days and pack decent hiking boots. 

In September, average temperatures range from 56 °F to 43 °F with about 10 days of rain.

The easiest way to get to Cairngorms National Park is to fly to Inverness, rent a car, and drive 30-minutes. Alternatively, you can fly into London and take the sleeper train to Inverness. 

Macdonald Highlands Hotel at Macdonald Aviemore Resort

Norwich, England

Nothing will get you more ready for fall than a trip to the beautiful city of Norwich, one of the best cities to visit in Great Britain in autumn. This historic city has 32 medieval churches, an array of cobbled streets, and endless amounts of ancient buildings. 

Visit Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery to get a taste of some of the architecture for which the city is famous. The castle is 900 years old and the nearby art gallery was once the city’s prison in the Victorian era. 

To fully embrace the start of those darker chillier evenings, book a Norwich Ghost Walk . It takes you on a trip around the most haunted areas by an in-character guide to hear about some of the less talked about history of the city. Those include stunning Norwich Cathedral, Norwich Castle and Elm Hill. Make sure you watch and listen for poltergeists and other signs of ghosts! 

If a spooky walk isn’t your cup of tea, then take a stroll in the daytime around Eaton Park. Eaton Park is easily reached from the city center and features 80 acres of beautiful greenery, a children’s play park, and even crazy golf. 

And of course, a must-do activity in Norwich is the city’s infamous Pub and Paddle . Rent a canoe and paddle through the city, stopping off at some of the area’s local riverside pubs on the way.  

In September, average temperatures range from 66 °F to 51 °F with about 7 days of rain.

Norwich is only a couple of hours’ drive from Luton, Stansted, and London City airports. 

St Giles House Hotel

Guernsey, British Isles

Guernsey is an island in the British Isles between England and France that is sometimes overlooked by people looking for a September vacation in and around Great Britain. While you should definitely try to explore more of the island, St Peters Port is what the locals call ‘town’ and is a great base for a trip. 

St Peter Port is home to some of the island’s top-rated restaurants and sampling some of the island’s seafood is a must-do for any trip to Guernsey. Check out The Hook , a sushi bar to try some of the island’s best fresh fish! 

Other top attractions in Guernsey include Hauteville House , Victor Hugo’s former home, where he wrote the award-winning Les Miserables. The huge house is 5 floors high and has not been updated since it was decorated by the poet himself in the early 19th century.

Castle Cornet sits on the harbor in Guernsey on the southern arm of St Peter Port and houses 5 museums and 4 gardens. From Easter until the end of September, the castle hosts live history performances, a fun show for both adults and children.

In September, average temperatures range from 64 °F to 57 °F with about 7 days of rain.

The easiest way to reach St Peter Port is to fly from London Gatwick.

Hotel Jerbourg

Bournemouth, England

Bournemouth is one of the best places in Great Britain to go for a September holiday. While it’s a wonderful seaside town all year round, the crowds in July and August can sometimes make it too overcrowded to really appreciate the area. 

The annual Arts by the Sea Festival runs through September and into October and is not one to be missed. Every year there is a different theme and an assortment of pop-up interactive exhibits are installed throughout the town. 

If you are traveling to Bournemouth as a family, take a day trip to Paultons Park , an amusement park that is also home to the famous Peppa Pig!

And for all the adrenaline junkies, there is a zip line that goes from pier to pier in Bournemouth 

In September, average temperatures range from 65 °F to 50 °F with about 7 days of rain.

The easiest way to get to Bournemouth is to fly into a London airport and then take the train 2 hours.

Cumberland Hotel  

Gower Peninsula, Wales

Gower is situated in the southeast of Wales and extends westwards along the coast for 19 miles starting in Mumbles. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and sandy beaches. It was actually named the United Kingdom’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. 

Obviously, the number one way to spend your time for a September trip to the Gower Peninsula is to go on a waterfront walk. Grab your hiking shoes and enjoy some of the most amazing views in the country. 

The most popular walk in the area takes you from Langland Bay to Caswell Bay. This two mile stroll is well pathed along the coast with multiple stops including some nice cafes along the beach. 

For the adventurous folks, Gower is a great place to try your hand at rock climbing at the famous Three Cliffs Bay and see views from a whole new level! 

In September, average temperatures range from 63 °F to 52 °F with about 10 days of rain.

The easiest way to get to the Gower Peninsula is to fly straight into Cardiff Airport and travel by car or coach 2 hours to Swansea. 

The Mirador Boutique Town House

Kent, England

Kent is one of the best areas in the UK to visit in September. It is located in the southeast of England. 

There is an array of festivities that take place annually in Kent including cider festivals, harvest festivals, and the famous Hops ‘n’ Harvest Beer Festival located in Maidstone. Here you can handpick hops, listen to live music, and sample some of the area’s own ale and cider. 

No trip to Kent is complete without exploring Leeds Castle , built in 857 and once home to Catherine of Aragon!

If you enjoy history, another must-do is a visit to Canterbury Cathedral , the first Church of England built in 597, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

In September, average temperatures range from 65 °F to 53 °F with about 7 days of rain.

Kent is an hour’s train ride from London.

Holiday Inn Maidstone-Sevenoaks

Fort William, Scotland

Said to be the outdoor capital of the United Kingdom, Fort William located in the west Scottish highlands makes the perfect September vacation in Great Britain. 

With its close proximity to Ben Nevis (the highest peak in Britain), Fort William is an ideal place to go if you want to enjoy some of the amazing outdoor activities offered in Scotland. From climbing Ben Nevis to mountain biking and hiking, Fort William offers it all.

Visiting in September means you might be lucky enough to catch a game of Shinty , a gaelic sport played in the Scottish Highlands. In fact, the Camanachd Cup Final is always played in September and brings a lot of excitement to the area. 

Another draw to this part of Scotland is the beautiful skies and the possibility of being able to see the Northern Lights. Stay overnight under the stars in specialized wigwams, away from the city lights, in almost complete darkness, and view rare glimpses of the milky way.

In September, average temperatures range from 58 °F to 48 °F with about 15 days of rain.

The easiest way to get to Fort William is to fly into either Glasgow or Edinburgh and drive around 2.5 hours. 

Middlesbrough, England

While Middlesbrough will unlikely be top of many people’s list of places in the UK to visit, it is a great representation of the Northeast of England.

Middlesbrough is a town south of the River Tees in Yorkshire and traditionally an industrial town built on former steel and coal mining. However, it is now more of a university town with its ever-popular Teesside University. 

By far the most popular activity for tourists in Middlesbrough is to bungee jump off the town’s most recognizable landmark, Transporter Bridge. Middlesbrough has one of only 11 transporter bridges left in the world and was the first commercial bungee jump spot in the UK. 

Teesmouth Nature Reserve is a unique area, a large green space, surrounded by industrial plants and a power station splitting the reserve into two parts. Despite the heavy industry, the reserve is visited by 20,000 individual waterfowl annually.  

If you are lucky enough to be in Middlesbrough on the last Saturday of the month, you can attend Orange Pip Market for great food, watch some live performances and enjoy a nice cold pint of beer. 

The best way to get to Middlesbrough would be to fly into Manchester airport and take the 2.5 hours train ride east to the town. 

OYO The Baltimore Hotel

The United Kingdom offers many wonderful destinations to visit and explore in September. You get the best of both worlds. The warmth of the late summer sun, and the beginning of crisp winter nights and brightly colored autumnal leaves falling from the trees. Whether you want to visit charming small villages, hike along country paths or in mountains, feel the sand between your toes, discover ancient castles and cathedrals, or find exciting museums, shopping and a great night life, you will not be disappointed with your choices.

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• 12 of the best things to do and places to visit in the UK in September

September is one of the best times to explore the UK. As summer slowly merges with autumn and the colours of the leaves turn red, yellow, and gold, our lovely countryside becomes even more spectacular. And because temperatures are usually still pretty warm, you can spend long days hiking, exploring, and discovering new places without getting cold.

So, if you’re looking for things to do when autumn begins to roll around, we’ve got you covered. Here are 12 of the best things to do and places to visit in the UK in September.

1. Travel back to Georgian times in Bath, Somerset

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jane Austen Festival, Bath (@jafestivalbath)

With its magnificent Georgian architecture, historic abbey, and fascinating Roman ruins, being in Bath can feel like being transported back to a different era.

It’s a small city that’s perfect for exploring on foot, which makes it a popular choice for a city break. And there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in Bath’s rich history beyond visiting the beautiful abbey and famous Roman Baths. Exploring the city’s natural surroundings – for example, by cycling the riverside paths and hiking the National Trust walk that circles the city, are especially lovely activities for September.

The annual Jane Austen Festival is also worth a visit. Arguably Bath’s most famous resident, Bath honours Austen every year, so if you’re a fan of her novels, the festival is an absolute must. This 10-day celebration transports you back to Austen’s era and shows you what life was like for characters like Lizzie Bennet in rural England during the late Georgian period.

This year there’s a Regency Costumed Promenade, where you can march down Bath’s Georgian streets among a sea of bonnets, soldiers, and drummers. There are also guided walks, theatrical performances, talks, costumed balls in the city’s historic ballrooms, and much more! The Jane Austen Festival will run from 8th to 17th September 2023.

2. Get your hiking boots on at the Gower Walking Festival, Southwest Wales

Thanks to its gorgeous sandy beaches, Wales’ Gower Peninsula has long been a popular staycation destination during the summer months. But it’s also a wonderful place to visit in September, when the crowds have gone home and the beaches and cliffs are pretty much deserted.

If you’re a keen walker, you might be interested in visiting the Gower from September 2nd–10th this year for the Gower Walking Festival . The festival has run since 2005 and is all about celebrating the natural beauty and rich heritage of this special part of the country. There are 30 glorious walks to choose from and something for all abilities – from gentle strolls to challenging treks.

The walks are social events and include stops for lunch or talk. There are women’s walks, where women share their health and menopause experiences; history walks, where you visit castles, forts, and deserted villages; foraging walks, where you learn about local edible plants; and pub walks, where you stop for plenty of refreshments! Aside from getting lots of exercise, you’ll probably make good friends along the way too.

The Gower Peninsula & Wye Valley*

United Kingdom | 11 days | Book with Ramble Worldwide

From £1,649pp

3. Gaze at Blackpool's seaside illuminations, Lancashire

September marks the first month of Blackpool’s much-loved illuminations, which have run for nearly 150 years. During this world-famous event, the iconic seaside town of Blackpool is lit up with a breathtaking display of vibrant colours and dazzling lights.

Enjoy an evening stroll along the promenade – gazing at the more than one million bulbs and stunning projection shows that light up the town.

Considered the greatest free light show in the world by some, the illuminations have been a major part of Blackpool’s attraction scene since 1879. Many people like to visit during September before the weather gets too chilly!

Blackpool Illuminations will shine every night from 1st September, 2023, to 1st January, 2024.

UK | 3 nights | Book with Solos Holidays

From £695pp

4. Enjoy delicious food and drink at York's famous culinary festivals, York

View this post on Instagram A post shared by York Food Festival (@yorkfoodfest)

York is another beautiful old city that’s ideal for a mini break – and aside from checking out all the typical attractions like the Jorvik Viking Centre , the York Dungeon, and the Shambles, there’s plenty more going on in September.

From the 13th–16th September, you can check out the York Beer & Cider Festival , which will be held in the gorgeous surroundings of St Lawrence Church.

As Yorkshire’s biggest outdoor beer festival, this is your chance to try over 250 beers and ciders – plus a selection of world wines, meads, prosecco, and spirits. There are also plenty of hot food stalls and musical acts, so it’s a great way to spend a day.

If you’re a foodie, you might prefer to visit in late September, as the York Food Festival runs from the 22nd September to the 1st October. While there are some ticketed activities, entry to the festival market and demonstrations is free, and you can taste your way around local food stalls, independent restaurants, and food retailers in and around York.

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5. Enjoy breathtaking displays of autumn colour at Westonbirt Arboretum, Gloucestershire

As the UK’s National Arboretum, Westonbirt is considered one of the finest collections of trees and shrubs in the world.

Spanning 600 acres, this enormous arboretum is home to 3,000 different tree species. While it’s beautiful throughout the year, Westonbirt is especially known for its breathtaking display of autumn colours, which are brilliant throughout September.

There are 17 miles of paths that wind through the arboretum, so if you’re looking for a good walk, you can definitely do that here. While parts of the arboretum are dog-free zones, the vast Silk Wood is dog-friendly, so if you’re travelling with your pet there’s plenty of leafy glades for you to explore.

With Bristol and the Cotswolds within easy reach, you won’t be short of lovely places to stay either.

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6. Experience traditional Irish music, Belfast

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At any time of year, Belfast is a lively, exciting city where there’s always something going on – whether it’s visiting one of its many museums, jazz bars, or authentic Irish pubs.

But September is a particularly lovely time to visit, because there’s plenty to get involved in. You could join one of the city’s excellent walking tours and stretch your legs while enjoying the autumn weather, before exploring the city’s thriving food scene.

For a taste of Irish culture, the Belfast Traditional Music Trail is a fabulous way to connect with Irish music. With two professional musicians as your tour guides, you’ll wander along cobbled streets, past famous landmarks, and into private bars in some of Belfast’s oldest buildings.

Expect to hear memorable performances, and learn all about the instruments and fascinating history that make up Ireland’s musical tradition – all the while sipping on local beer, cider, whiskey, or Guinness. Featured in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’, this isn’t one to miss.

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7. Have a laugh at Greenwich Comedy Festival, London

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Greenwich Comedy Festival (@greenwichcomedyfestival)

If you’re a comedy fan, you might like to think about heading to London’s National Maritime Museum between the 13th – 17th of September. Here, the Greenwich Comedy Festival will be held in the museum’s grounds – when the weather will still be warm enough to enjoy these open-air shows.

As the capital’s most critically-acclaimed comedy festival, the event promises to combine lots of laughs with exceptional food and drink.

This year’s line-up includes many of the most popular comedians of the moment, including Jack Dee, Ed Gamble, Nina Conti, Stewart Lee, Fern Brady, and Russell Kane. The show is sold for individual days, so you can always just buy tickets to see your favourite comedians.

And if all those belly laughs give you hunger pangs, there’s more good news. There’ll be a delicious selection of street-food stalls serving up all kinds of exciting treats – and if you get thirsty, there’s just as much choice. Browse the selection of bars and try local beers, colourful cocktails, and fine wine!

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8. Enjoy free entry to National Trust sites during the Heritage Open Days Festival, UK-wide

During the Heritage Open Days festival (8th to 17th September), many of the places cared for by the National Trust will be offering free entry and events – and there’ll be various events hosted by local organisations too.

Now in its 29th year, Heritage Open Days is made possible by thousands of volunteers wanting to celebrate our fantastic history and culture.

From nature and history to theatre and family fun, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. Get a taste of 17th century life at Moseley Old Hall in Staffordshire, hop aboard a heritage steam railway on the Isle of Wight, or discover the ‘haunted’ castle of St Briavels in Gloucestershire. You can search for events near you on the Heritage Open Days website.

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to bypass organised events, simply make the most of having free entry to extensive collections of art, historic gardens, and beautiful landscapes.

To find out more about which National Trust places will be offering free entry, head over to the Heritage Open Days website .

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9. Meet best-selling authors at Wigtown Book Festival, Dumfries and Galloway

If you love reading, you might want to think about heading up to Dumfries and Galloway this September and visiting Wigtown. This traditional market town is known as ‘Scotland’s National Book Town’, and since 1999 it has hosted one of the best literary festivals in the UK, Wigtown Book Festival .

Described as ‘one of the best autumn festivals in the world’ by The Telegraph, this year’s festival kicks off on September 22nd and runs until 1st October. With over 200 events for both adults and kids, there’s much to see and do. You can listen to bestselling authors read their books, hear talks from some of the UK’s leading writers, and browse the many secondhand bookshops in town.

This year’s special guests include Hamza Yassin, Judy Murray, Sally Magnusson, and Pat Nevin – and there’s also a free firework display to enjoy too. You can find a full festival line-up on the Wigtown Book Festival website.

Wigtown is also the gateway to the Machars – a beautiful peninsula where you can enjoy bracing coastal walks, hike through leafy forests, stroll along quiet pebble beaches, and explore ruined castles.

There are also many lovely villages and harbours in the Machars where you can just relax in a pub…perhaps reading a second-hand book you picked up in Wigtown.

10. Learn something new at the British Science Festival, Exeter

View this post on Instagram A post shared by British Science Association (@britishscienceassociation)

The British Science Festival is Europe’s longest standing science festival. It’s hosted in a different UK location each year, and aims to connect people with scientists, engineers, technologists, and social scientists – bringing to life a side of science that the public may not have previously experienced.

Highlights include talks from scientists working on cutting edge research and innovation, hands-on workshops, as well as escape rooms, virtual realities, and live music. You can find a full event line-up on the British Science Festival website .

This year, the British Science Festival is held at the University of Exeter and will run from 7th to 10th September.

11. Stargaze at the Brecon Beacons Festival, South Wales

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Located in the heart of South Wales, the Brecon Beacons National Park is gorgeous all year round, and it’s a lovely place for an autumn staycation. With the summer crowds gone, accommodation is cheaper and quieter, and you can often hike for hours without seeing another person.

If you want to enjoy a relaxing break, be among nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy the fresh air, the Brecon Beacons are ideal. And if you’re up for an adventure, you’ll be spoilt for choice too. You can have a go at underground caving, canyoning, kayaking and canoeing, or even trek up Pen y Fan – South Wales’ highest peak.

If you visit towards the end of September, you might also be lucky enough to catch the Brecon Beacons Dark Sky Festival . The Brecon Beacons are known for being one of the best places in the UK to stargaze, and on September 23rd, 2023, you can experience the wonders of this Dark Sky Reserve and learn more about why protecting the night skies is so important.

There’s all sorts going on, from paddleboarding under the stars to evening bat walks and planetarium shows. Check out the full lineup on the Go Stargazing website.

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12. Enjoy a refreshing cider while sitting amongst apple orchards, County Armagh

Known as the biggest foodie event of the season, the Armagh Food and Cider Weekend is an annual celebration of fine foods, delicious cider, local produce, and quirky dining experiences. And with talks, tours, demos, and masterclasses, this year’s lineup promises to be the best yet!

Armagh is known for its orchards and world-class cider – so visiting in September, when the apples reach their peak, means your tastings will be even better.

However, if you’ve had your fill of food and drink, the small city of Armagh has long been popular with history buffs too. It’s the oldest city in Ireland and is famous for being the home of St Patrick in the fifth century. There are two beautiful and historic churches to explore as well. Armagh’s stunning Georgian architecture also hides numerous stone angels and gargoyles, which are a tribute to the town’s sacred past.

From the city, you can walk to the 300-acre Palace Demesne, where you can stroll around its pristine parkland and trees, which are especially lovely in September.

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Final thoughts…

While saying goodbye to summer can sometimes feel a bit sad, there’s lots to get excited about this September.

At this time of year, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy being outdoors all day, so if you’re looking to book a staycation or a quick break, it’s an ideal time. As the leaves begin to change colour, it’s also one of the best times of year to appreciate the UK’s diverse natural beauty.

From food festivals and literary events to woodland walks and city breaks, there’s so much to see and do this September. So whether you’re looking for a fun day out or planning your next mini-break, we hope this article has inspired you.

If you’d like some more ideas, head over to the art and culture and travel sections of our website. Here you’ll find everything from popular days out in the UK to the best National Trust places to visit.

Are you tempted to check out some of these places or events this September? Or do you already have your own plans for things to do and places to visit? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Selene Nelson is an author, freelance journalist, and lifestyle writer for Rest Less. After graduating from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature, Selene began contributing to many major newspapers and websites, and has written for the BBC, The Sunday Times, The Independent, Town & Country, and HuffPost. Her specialist subjects include food, travel, and health, though she enjoys writing about a wide range of topics (e.g. her two books are about veganism and psychopathy, respectively!). She enjoys cooking (particularly pasta and Asian noodle soups), reading, travelling, hiking, attempting to keep fit, and watching animal videos on YouTube.

* Links with an * by them are affiliate links which help Rest Less stay free to use as they can result in a payment or benefit to us. You can read more on how we make money here .

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20 of the best places to visit in september.

Whether you're after a getaway with a difference, a life-changing wildlife experience or a long-term adventure to tick off the wish list, September's an ideal month to get on the road...

September is one of our favourite months to travel. The school holiday rush is over, so sunny destination flight prices start to come down. Temperatures in Europe dip enough to make heat more comfortable and undiscovered Europe   is in its element. The 'stans come to life. Safari season is in full swing, if drawing to a close.

Whether you're after a getaway with a difference, a life-changing wildlife experience or a long-term adventure to tick off the wish list, September's an ideal month to get on the road. 

Skip ahead to your chosen travel type by clicking on one of the below, or keep scrolling for the full list of recommendations:

The best September destinations for nature and ideal weather

The best longer-term travel experiences for september, where to go in september for arts and cultural experiences, the best places to visit for wildlife watching in september, here are the 20 best places to visit in september…, 1. sicily, italy.

Sicily's Valle dei Templ (Shutterstock)

Like many popular European hot spots, Sicily  is still warm in September, yet less oppressively hot, cooler in the evenings and less busy thanks to the summer holidays drawing to a close. However, you might notice an influx of visitors this year, thanks to the hit series White Lotus introducing the Mediterranean gem to the set-jetting travellers of the world.

In the capital, Palermo , opera season begins again this month. It's also typically an ideal temperature to take on the hike up Mount Etna, or to explore the volcanic Aoelian Islands. 

Ensure time to explore the towns of Taormina and Castelmola. The former is where you can find the must-visit Greek-Roman theatre: the view here is one of the most striking with Mount Etna on the horizon. For more Greek ruins, the  Valle dei Templ ( Valley of Temples) in  Agrigento is one of world's finest archaeological examples of ancient art and architecture. 

It doesn't matter where you end up on the island: you'll be able to end each day by parking yourself outside a classic Sicilian eatery to enjoy the hazy late summer evening.

Read next:  Sicily's best things to do

2. hokkaido, japan.

Jozankei is a picturesque onsen town near Sapporo (Shutterstock)

Just as the pale-pink cherry blossoms of spring draw locals outside to marvel at Japan’s natural beauty, its autumnal colours are just as prized.

But while the rest of the country waits to get its first glimpse of red and golden maple leaves, Hokkaido is ahead of the game. Japan’s chilly northern tip starts to turn towards the middle of September, making for a colourful road trip before the ice and bad weather sets in.

Pay a visit first to the pretty onsen town of Jozankei, just south of Sapporo, which has plenty of walkable forest trails and hot springs to relax in. Then make for the Blue Pond at the centre of the island, where impossibly teal waters reflect the reddening canopies of the surrounding larch and birch trees magnificently, making for a painterly setting. 

But you don’t even need to leave the city to spy nature at its autumnal best. Sapporo’s Hiraoka Jugei Center is famous for its ‘red tunnel’, created by the rows of Japanese maples (Nomura momiji) that flank its walkways. 

Read next: Reasons to visit Sapporo, Japan

3. corsica, france.

The citadel of Calvi, Corsica (Sylvain Oliveira/Alamy)

Corsica’s Rencontres Polyphoniques de Calvi is one of those tiny cultural pearls that makes a trip to the old citadel of Calvi in mid-September utterly unique, as choristers and soloists from around the world join the A Filetta polyphonic choir in making the most of their cathedral setting.

By day, take the opportunity to explore the rest of the citadel, whose Genoese construction helped Calvi resist French control up until the 18th century. The former governor’s palace is particularly impressive and has a fine museum on the city. 

It’s also a great time to visit if you want to take on any part of the GR20 – one of Europe’s toughest but most rewarding trails . The cooler weather of autumn makes this the perfect season to wander Corsica’s glacial lakes and imposing peaks before winter seals off many of the higher passes.

4. Maine, USA

Boats docked in pretty harbour town of Camden in Maine (Shutterstock)

September sees New England’s lobster shacks readying to close up shop for winter, so it’s the perfect time to go on a last-minute coastal food crawl. Hoover up Maine ’s famed lobster rolls – overflowing, buttery sandwiches – in villages along the coast, and be sure to stop in Portland, where tours explore both its seafood scene and maritime history.

Further north, Camden takes the plaudits as one of the prettiest harbour towns in Maine, but is known for its fleet of windjammers (merchant-style sail boats). This stretch of Penobscot Bay is particularly sheltered, so it makes a great setting for the annual Labor Day Windjammer Festival, one of the largest meetings of sail ships in north-east USA.

Finish at Acadia National Park’s Mount Desert Island, the highest rocky headlands on this stretch of the Atlantic coast. As well as trails and adventures, it is home to the annual Night Sky Festival in late September, when the Milky Way glimmers bright in the naturally dark skies overhead.

5. Portugal

Pena Palace, Sintra, Portugal (Shutterstock)

Portugal lands on our long-term list for the sheer volume of places to visit, because typically, it's a classic short break destination. We admit: it's far too easy to fly to Lisbon or Porto  for a few days, or enjoy a wine tasting tour of Douro Valley, and then fly back home.

If you've weeks – maybe even a month or two –  to spare, it's well worth slowing down and soaking up Portugal. Spend time seeking out Lisbon and Porto's up-and-coming neighbourhoods.

Go off-the-beaten-track to the majestic historical city of Coimbra, and explore the underrated Tavira and more of the eastern Algarve 's quieter coast. Finally, g ive the fairytale town of Sintra what it deserves: a few days more than a day trip. 

You can take your time enjoying the fruits of Portugal's vineyards, too, and don't forget the island of Madeira . It has more than just wine to enjoy, but you'll still soak up Funchal's world-class wineries at a slower pace. 

Portugal may still be a tad too warm in September for travellers better equipped to dealing with cooler temps. However, it's good to know that things tend to simmer down in the evenings, making strolls to local bars for drinks and petiscos (the snackier version of Spanish tapas) extremely pleasant.

The Old Town of Tbilisi, Georgia (Shutterstock)

The capital, Tbilisi , may make an excellent long weekend destination, but there's far more of the country to explore.

Batumi and  Mtskheta cities are also well worth your time, both offering historical landmarks, monasteries and sensational views. The botanical garden in Batumi is a natural spectacle, too, especially as autumn's oranges and yellows begin to take over the country.

Head to western Georgia and experience Kutaisi, or delve into Prometheus Cave. Experience local life in the Svaneti region among the Caucasus Mountains, and end your trip with all the Georgian food and drink you can manage, with a relaxing few days by the Black Sea. 

7. Argentina

El Caminito neighbourhood in Buenos Aires, Argentina (Shutterstock)

Argentina's winter draws to a close in August and early September, so mid to late September brings with it spring temperatures. They do vary, but you can hope for easygoing temperatures.

Spring blooms bring lush greenery to Argentina's national parks, and overall, this vast South American country is certainly less crowded than in summer. N orthern Argentina in particular is best visited during this season, where you can discover the little-visited Salinas Grandes salt plains, the multi-hued rock formations of Quebrada de Humahuaca, and swing by the mountain city of Salta. 

Alternatively, take your time in the capital, Buenos Aires , enjoy the wineries of Mendoza, or head to youthful Córdoba: the gateway to Jesuit monasteries and mountain ranges. 

Read next:  Best things to do in Argentina

8. trekking in nepal.

Nepal (Shutterstock)

We've covered Nepal's life-affirming treks in some detail on Wanderlust , and have to say that there's few better times than September to take on a challenge.

This is because the weather is prime for easy trekking conditions. Rainy season has petered out, the skies are clear and temperatures are on the cooler side. . Time to get walking...

While most head to Nepal for its mountain trails, its also a brilliant country for culture-seekers. Head to Pokhara, the gateway to the popular Annapurna Circuit, but also somewhere you can learn more about Buddhism. Don't forget to visit the city's International Mountain Museum for exhibits on historic climbers and the people of the Himalayas.

Teej Festival also often falls in September. During this three-day Hindu festival and national holiday, women will fast and also dress in their beautiful red saris, creating a crimson spectacle on the streets.

Read next:  13 best Nepal trekking routes

China (Shutterstock)

Both September and October are popular times to visit China. Not least because the spectacular Mid-Autumn Festival takes place during this period, celebrating the end of the harvest. Dates vary, but the special day usually occurs between mid-September and the beginning of October. 

Weather-wise, the northern regions are particularly fine to visit anytime in September, though humidity in the south can remain high until later on in the month.

Use this weather pattern to help guide your trip. Begin in Beijing, the electrifying 3,000-year-old capital. The Great Wall, a travel classic, is about an hour and 30 minutes by car. You'll want several days to walk and explore this sheer wonder.

Then make your way south, stopping by all the must-sees: Chengdu (for giant pandas),  Xi’an (one of China's eldest cities, home to the Terracotta Army) and the Three Gorges mountain range on the Yangtze River.

Read next:  Plan your journey with our China trip planner

10. tajikistan and turkmenistan.

Monument in Rudaki Park, Dushanbe, Tajikistan (Dreamstime)

Geographically (and sensibly), it would be impossible and near-criminal to see the 'stans and sack off the blue-tiled marvels of Uzbekistan. But since we've featured Uzbekistan as a highlight for several different months, why not use September to dig deeper into neighbouring Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, too?

Tajikistan, a landlocked country surrounded by mountains, is a hiker's untouched dream. The capital, Dushanbe, is absolutely fascinating. Admire its unique architecture and monuments in Rudaki Park, then spend time acquainting yourself with the nation's Soviet history in Tajikistan National Museum.

Turkmenistan's jewel is its marble-dense capital,  Ashgabat, reportedly one of the most expensive cities in the world for foreigners to live. Fortunately, you're just visiting, so spend your time marvelling at its tombs, towers and mosques, or shopping in the city's unusual bazaars.

It's easy to go beyond the city, though. The white-sand coast spreads out before the Caspian Sea, and the Gates To Hell (the perpetually-burning Darvaza Gas Crater) lies in wait in the middle of the desert. 

The start of the Ruo Path in the Lujeri Tea Estate leading up to the plateau of Mount Mulanje (Shutterstock)

There are few bigger music festivals in Africa than Lake of Stars, which lights up the pale sands at the southern end of Lake Malawi in September.

It was created in 2003 to promote local Malawian artists, though it has since expanded its repertoire to take in acts across the continent. After the pandemic broke in 2020, the festival went on hiatus for a number of years, but its return in 2024 marks a new chapter in the life of ‘Africa’s Glastonbury’.

Combine a visit with trips to the surrounding wilderness and mountain areas. September marks the start of the hot season in Malawi, but driving up to see and stay in the family-run tea plantations of Mulanje Mountains offers a cool escape and glimpse of another world entirely.

Meanwhile, down in the bush of Liwonde National Park, the hotter weather soon rids the land of its wet-season greenery, making sightings of its Big Five far easier to sniff out as you drift the Shire River in search of large herds of elephant and sun-worshipping crocodiles roasting on the riverbanks. 

12. Munich, Germany

Traditional costumes at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany (Shutterstock)

Oktoberfest has October right there in the title, but Bavaria's beer-based merriment actually begins around the third week of September. So, why not get there early, before others may be aware?

Over the two-week festival, you can expect endless opportunities for eating German pretzels, wurstl (sausage) and knodel (potato pancakes), hop from tent to tent tasting the best in German beer, dress up in traditional dirndl dresses or lederhose, enjoy a carnival ride,  toast your new-found drunken friends (it's a friendly festival) and  simply dance the night away.

13. Bohinj, Slovenia

The Cow's Ball in Bohinj, Slovenia (Dreamstime)

A little more niche than Oktoberfest, Slovenia's Bohinj region offers more than scenic beauty in September. It also offers the chance to witness the long-running, traditional 'cow festival', known as the 'Cow Ball'.

It's exactly as it sounds. Through a cloud of folk music, locals watch a parade of garland-wearing cows pass the gloriously blue Lake Bohinj. The event signifies  the return of the cows from the hills in summer, where they've been munching and  filling their four stomachs with green, green grass.

14. Villamartin, Andalucía, Spain

The beautifully landscaped plaza of Villamartin (Shutterstock)

There’s always a good reason to visit Andalucía, but the annual return of the region’s oldest agricultural fair in September is as good an excuse as any to head for southern Spain. Trust us – it’s more lively than it sounds.

The Feast of St Matthew (Feria de Ganado y Fiestas de San Mateo) serves up Andalucían culture at its purest: cattle browsing before noon; horse displays, carriage races and folklore performances come nightfall. It’s a heady combination, with plenty of food and goodwill found on the streets. 

The town lies on the cusp of Sierra De Grazalema, a lush natural park veined with walking trails, rugged limestone peaks and pretty mountain villages such as Benaocaz and Benamahoma. Be sure to strike out into the countryside before heading to the historic streets of nearby Cadiz and Seville for a culture fix.

Read next: Plan your perfect sustainable trip to Spain

15. diriyah & riyadh, saudi arabia.

At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage site illuminated at night (Shutterstock)

The end of the month (23 Sep) marks the National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Celebrations gather around Riyadh’s huge Masmak Fort, where a 21-year-old Abdulaziz Ibn Saud – exiled at the age of eight – led an against-all-odds attack against Ottoman forces in 1902 to take back the fort and proclaim himself the ruler of Riyadh.

If you want to delve into the origins of the Kingdom, take a trip to the ‘original’ capital in Diriyah, on the western fringes of Riyadh, where the ancestors of today’s Saudi royal family first arrived in the 15th century – although the first inklings of the state didn’t emerge until hundreds of years later.

You can explore this history in the restored 18th-century mud-brick walls of the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif citadel and its elegant Salwa Palace, where evening light shows depict the moment in 1818 when the Ottomans rode in and put a violent end to the First Saudi State.

16. KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

A giraffe roams Hluhluwe-IMfolozi Game Reserve (Shutterstock)

September is traditionally the end of game viewing season in   KwaZulu-Natal , making it the ideal month to visit if you want to avoid the mass safari crowds, but still see the Big Five and more.

Expect the opportunity to see lions, elephants, rhinos and giraffes, as well as rare bird species. Hluhluwe-IMfolozi Game Reserve is a must for any wildlife fan, said to be the oldest reserve in Africa. Elephant lovers must head to the north-east to see the creatures roaming  Tembe Elephant Park, which is close by to Ndumo Game Reserve.

Birders rejoice at uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, which is protected for its significant population of endangered or rare species, including the wattled crane, vultures (bearded and cape) and the yellow breasted pipit. Over 164 birds have been spotted in the region. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it's the home of San Rock Art, a large collection of rock paintings dating back to the 1800s.

17. Tarangire and Serengeti National Parks

Elephants in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania (Shutterstock)

East Africa also offers ample wildlife opportunities in September. Of course, the earlier you visit in September, the better, so you've missed the August rush, but you're also not risking early rains washing the animals out of the park and into the outskirts of the reserves.

Tanzania has two national parks you simply must visit, if you love animals. Tarangire National Park provides wildlife watchers with an excellent chance of enjoying an elephant sighting in the wild, as they group together around the Tarangire River. The Serengeti can still be busy in September and you won't have much luck with the wildebeest migration (June to July) across the Grumeti River, but you will have better luck with the overall wildlife population. Leopards, lions and more of the Big Five await. 

18. Atlantic provinces and British Columbia, Canada

Puffins shotting in Newfoundland, Canada (Shutterstock)

Chances are you'll want to take a warm jacket with you on a wildlife excursion in the eastern provinces of Canada. 

Here, you'll say goodbye to safari-style wildlife watching and instead admire whales by boat. Take your birding binoculars too as it's prime time for puffin sightings along the coast. 

You can see native black bears in Newfoundland, too. The season lasts until November, so you'll be there at the right time. There are approximately 6,000 to 10,000 in the region – which is a pretty high concentration.

On the opposite side of the country in British Columbia, it's prime time to see wild grizzlies in their natural habitat. September and October also offer a great chance to catch the  salmon run , where millions of salmon swim and leap upstream to spawn in the places they were born. It's arguably one of nature's most fascinating spectacles.

Read next: 8 u nforgettable journeys through Canada

19. gorongosa national park, mozambique.

A desert warthog in Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique (Shutterstock)

For something a bit different, embrace the beautiful spring season in Mozambique's premier national park, the so-called 'Serengeti of the south'.

In spring (September and October), the park's diverse array of flora and fauna blossom into a lovely shade of green. This month is also peak season for seeing the elephants, wildebeest, warthogs, hippos, lions and buffalo that call the park home –  as they all flock to watering holes to quench their thirst.

Birders won't be disappointed either, and you may spot a Nile crocodile or two around Lake Urema and its varying lagoons . Fourteen African wild dogs were also re-introduced to Gorongosa in 2018, so keep your eyes peeled. One creature you may not spot? A zebra. They're rare  – apparently, there are just a few roaming the park.

20. Falsterbo, Sweden

500 million migratory birds pass by the Skanor-Falsterbo peninsula (Shutterstock)

Sweden’s south coast isn’t especially known for its wildlife. The exception is the Skanor-Falsterbo peninsula (aka Naset), home to a pair of small towns on the south-western tip of Skåne that are wrapped by pencil-thin shores. In September, it also becomes the perfect viewing spot to see 500 million migratory birds pass by, including a huge number of raptors.  

The rooftop of the bird observatory is a great place to bag a spot. And when you’re done, a short walk away lies the Måkläppen reserve, where a year-round colony of harbor and grey seals hang out on a hook-shaped isthmus. SUP and kayak tours can take you near, but these creatures are so curious that they often swim up close to inspect paddlers.

If you have the time, combine the above with a cycling trip along the Sydkustleden (260km), which runs the flat coastal paths of Skåne and takes in standing stones, medieval cobbled villages, pirate castles, the canals of Malmo and plenty of fikas (afternoon tea). 

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Best places to visit in july, best places to visit in august, best places to visit in october, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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20 of the best autumn escapes around the UK

These breaks revel in the glorious change of season, and take in everything from foraging and festivals to stargazing and glamping

Harvest twist at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

The traditional harvest jamboree is given a modern twist in Blenheim Palace ’s walled garden this year, with an autumn festival promising food markets, foraging trails and theatrical entertainment such as wacky races and a dragon maze trail by a collective of artists and designers(24-26 September and 1-3 October, free with entry, £30 per adult for palace, park and gardens or £19 park and gardens, child £17 or £9, blenheimpalace.com). Pitchup.com has several glamping sites nearby, from about £75 a night sleeping two

Foraging and glamping in Pembrokeshire

With ancient woodland all around, and the winding tributaries of the Cleddau estuary for dips and kayaking, the setting is right for a long weekend of relaxation in nature at Little Retreat in Lawrenny. Luxury dome tents have private wood-fired hot tubs and outdoor bathtubs, but it’s the choice of experiences on offer that makes it special. Guided wild swimming sessions range from an introduction to cold water swimming (£55pp, with the Wim Hof method of cold shower preparation in advance recommended for the colder season) to an outdoor sauna experience on the banks of the River Dyfi (£85pp). Or choose a full day’s foraging, feasting and fishing followed by an evening meal (£135pp) of fungi, seaweed and hedgerow ingredients cooked by Matt Powell , who plans to open a restaurant at the site. Wellbeing classes, art lessons and walks can fill other spare moments. Two nights in a dome tent sleeping four or five from £370

Stargazing in Dumfries and Galloway

Galloway Forest Park , in the south-west of Scotland, is an international dark sky park with more than 7,000 stars and planets visible to the naked eye and the Milky Way often observable as well. Close by in Kirkcudbright, the Selkirk Arms , a cosy hotel with simple neat rooms, is running a stargazing weekend at the end of October. Hosted by top Scottish astronomer Steve Owens from the Glasgow Science Centre , it kicks off with drinks, canapes and dinner before a talk each evening, with stargazing walks to the harbour and out into the dark sky park, as well as a visit to the town’s new Dark Space Planetarium . 29-31 October, two-night dinner, B&B package including activities £289pp, selkirkarmshotel.co.uk

Autumn festivals in Malvern, Worcestershire

Nothing says autumn like a giant vegetable competition, and the Malvern Autumn Show (24-26 September, £18, under-16s free but tickets required) claims its contest is one of the biggest of the bunch. Held in the Three Counties Showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills near Ledbury, it features artisan food and drink stalls and talks by gardening gurus. For a treat, stay at the gorgeous Cottage in the Wood boutique hotel (doubles £199 B&B), whose fine restaurant has woodland views. Or camp at Eastnor Castle , which is most beautiful in autumn, and which was used as a set for the TV drama Succession – the deer park and arboretum are beautiful in autumn ( pitches until 30 September £12 a night, entry to castle and grounds £12.50 adult, £7.50 child). Nearby Tenbury Wells hosts an Applefest on 2 October, while the National Trust’s Croome estate (£12/£6) provides more lovely autumn walks.

Nature-spotting multi-day trek in the South Downs

Hiking is particularly pleasant in the mild temperatures of a classic autumn, and rural routes are buzzing with wildlife and alive with colour. The 65-mile Serpent Trail , snaking through heathland in Surrey and Hampshire, was created in 2005 but has been altered this year to follow a more picturesque route. Beginning in Haslemere, it winds through the South Downs national park and finishes in Petersfield, with sculptures dotted along the way. Here, you can see live adders, sand lizards and smooth snakes – Britain’s rarest reptiles, which, unusually, give birth to young in September. In autumn green tiger beetles and black darter dragonflies may still be around too, and the heather is in bloom, bilberries are ready to pluck and birds such as stonechats, woodlarks and Dartford warblers decorate the breeze with their song. Pied A Terre Adventures has a five-night self-guided trip staying in a different place each night, from £525pp B&B . Trail notes, GPS and OS Map App, and bag transfers are included, as are suggested places to eat and drink (patadventures.com)

Walking and dining on the Suffolk coast

The cute village of Orford on the Suffolk coast has lots going for it – pretty streets of pubs and delis, a quay and the Crown and Castle , now a smart bistro with 21 rooms. You can see Henry II’s 12th-century castle from the windows, and nearby, for spooky autumn walks, is mysterious Orford Ness. This long spit, which once served as a military base, has now been commandeered for wildlife and is a National Trust nature reserve . Aldeburgh is a few miles north, and there’s leaf peeping in nearby Rendlesham forest . The hotel has a list of walking routes, with varying lengths designed to burn off the calories guests eat in the restaurant that night. Go for the 45-minute ramble and you might only have a main of Orford-landed skate wing with chorizo and crab butter, but do the full 7½-hour hike and you could amply justify half a dozen Butley Bay oysters to start, plus a pud of strawberry cheesecake with Pimm’s jelly and cucumber sorbet, and take the hotel’s posh picnic with you. Doubles from £170 room-only in September, £114 in October, crownandcastle.co.uk

Whisky and wildlife in the Inner Hebrides

South of Skye and Mull, the island of Islay (pronounced I-luh ) is rich in wildlife and famed for its peaty whiskies. Responsible Travel’s five-day Inner Hebrides autumn wildlife tour covers both, with departures scheduled on 22 and 29 October and 5 November. The primary draw at this time of year is birdlife, including oystercatchers and skylarks on the Kintyre peninsula, eagles on the sea cliffs of Oa nature reserve , and 20,000 barnacle and white-fronted geese arriving at Loch Gruinart and Loch Gorm from Greenland in October. One day is dedicated to a coastal pathway that links the Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg whisky distilleries, with seal viewing and a wee dram or three to warm the cockles, alongside a distillery tour. F our nights for £965pp , including transfers from Oban and some meals

Get that start-of-term feeling in Sussex

Embrace those nostalgic new-school-year feelings autumn can trigger by booking on to one of West Dean College’s short courses in arts and conservation, in a rural setting in the South Downs national park . You can try botanical drawing, with a focus on feathers, bark and seed pods and how to bring out fine details (20-23 September, £381pp), or botanical painting in the colours of the season (7-10 October, £393), a course suitable for beginners. A novices’ pottery course (1-3 October, £289) will allow you to explore slip decorating; there’s a leatherwork masterclass (2 November, £148) for making tool sheaths and other cases; traditional English basket making (19-21 November, £298); and there’s even a class on how to make a steel besague, a piece of 15th-century armour (16 October, £163) – plus many more. West Dean has rooms available on site from £127pp for two nights, including dinner and breakfast. To the south are Chichester, for shopping and dining, and the beaches of Hayling Island and West Wittering; next door is the Weald and Downland Living Museum , an outdoor collection of historic downland buildings where autumn events include a historical music weekend on 25-26 September.

Retreat in the trees in Northumberland

Fiery displays of autumn colour are provided by vibrant acers, and by the red squirrels foraging for winter stores at the National Trust estate at Wallington . The families who lived here for 300 years planted expanses of woodland, including exotic conifers and other trees from around the world that can be explored today on a “ heritage tree trail ”. Near the estate, the National Trust has a new holiday cottage, Rothley Lakehouse , surrounded by woodland and wetlands. The house, which sleeps 13, overlooks the 250-year-old Capability Brown lake, where bats, badgers and otters frequent the shore. Bikes can be rented to explore trails to nearby villages such as Wallington, or further afield to Blyth , to Rothbury for antiques, and quaint Morpeth . The luxurious main lodge sleeps 10, with three more staying in the guest cottage (£ 2,600 for three nights in September, £1,950 in October , £1,625 in Novembe r)

A fruitful season of art exhibitions in London

Autumn spells a new season of art shows in the capital, including the first major exhibition of experimental painterly woodcuts by American abstract expressionist Helen Frankenthaler at Dulwich Picture Gallery . The Royal Academy of Arts summer exhibition, in its 253rd year, launches on 22 September, and it has a show of late Constable works from 30 October, while at the National Gallery, Poussin and the Dance shows the 17th-century baroque artist’s works depicting classical gods and mortals in movement, from 9 October. Hogarth’s greatest pieces are shown with those of some of his peers in the Hogarth and Europe exhibition at Tate Britain from 3 November, while 2017 Turner prize winner Lubaina Himid’s multidisciplinary show starts at Tate Modern on 25 November. Trained initially in theatre design, she has been pivotal in contemporary British art. Displaying work by emerging artists, Paddington’s Inhabit hotel has luxurious double rooms (from £150 B&B, inhabithotels.com) and aims to be environmentally and socially conscious, with a wellness area, Peloton bike classes, Tokyo bikes for hire, and collaborations with 20 social enterprises. A second location is due to open nearby before the end of the year.

Explore the nature, history and sights of Jersey

Just a few miles off the coast of Normandy, Jersey has become more popular than ever in a year with scant international travel options. Inntravel’s new four-night Jersey Island Escape was launched this year to show off the Channel Island’s sandy bays, rare birds and second world war history, and runs until the end of October. Based at a hotel in the harbour village of Saint Aubin, it offers leisurely self-guided exploration, furnishing walkers with route notes, maps and an island bus pass. Highlights include walking the tidal island causeway to La Corbière lighthouse, spotting red-billed choughs at Sorel Point and a tour of Battery Lothringen at Saint Brélade, one of the best-preserved coastal artillery defences in western Europe. From £595pp in October, including four nights’ B&B accommodation, one dinner and return taxis from Jersey airport to the hotel

Cycling and cider in Herefordshire

The new 48-mile cycling circuit in Herefordshire’s Golden Valley expands on the popular cider trails launched last year. The Porter’s Perfection circuit starts from the village of Dorstone, in the shadow of the neolithic monument Arthur’s Stone, and tours several west Herefordshire craft cider makers. A leisurely ride along peaceful back roads with glimpses of rolling hills takes in Orgasmic Cider Company’s orchards, a horse-drawn mill at the 17th-century Fair Oak Cider farm, and the county’s oldest pub, Dorstone’s Pandy Inn . The route can also be tackled in smaller, bite-size sections. The aptly named Cider Shack from Ty Gwyn Holidays is a tiny holiday home for two in rural splendour comprising two sheds, fire pit, outdoor bath and log-burning stove. Two nights at the Cider Shack (tygwynholidays.co.uk) costs £240, or the Pandy Inn B&B has doubles from £85

Cattle droving festival and steaming in the Lake District

The annual droving event on 28-30 October signals the shift from autumn to winter in the northern Lakes. The main event, with performers and a street market, is in Penrith but the lakeside community of Pooley Bridge also throws its own. Mask-wearing is a major feature of the event, which celebrates the cattle droving that has taken place in rural Cumbria for centuries and culminates in a flame-lit procession of horned and cloaked locals. A visit can be combined with hiking sections of the 20-mile Ullswater Way, linked by the Ullswater Steamers and tinged with autumnal colours at this time of year. Close to the path, the Quiet Site holiday park offers toasty-warm family camping pods with electricity, some of which are dog-friendly. Camping pods sleep two adults and two children from £ 150 for two night s, some availability during the droving

Coast and castles in County Antrim

Ballygally Castle on Antrim’s scenic Causeway Coastal Route feels a world away from the big city, yet is only 26 miles from Belfast – and in autumn room prices are lower. At this time of year there’s more breathing space along the busy coastal road, which runs to Northern Ireland’s most visited attraction, the Giant’s Causeway . The castle dates from 1625 and overlooks sandy Ballygally Bay. Nearby is the improbable early-20th-century feat of engineering called the Gobbins (£20/£14.50), a wild seacliff walk of spiral staircases and suspended bridges, with tunnels once used by smugglers. There’s also paddleboarding off the Ballygally beach (if weather permits), the Norman Carrickfergus Castle on Belfast Lough and, an hour north near the Giant’s Causeway, coasteering at Portrush or Ballintoy (available year-round, wetsuits provided). Doubles at Ballygally Castle from £120 B&B

Glamping at Hadrian’s Wall

Ancient sites seem more atmospheric as the season turns misty, none more so than Hadrian’s Wall. A mile from the wall, just outside the town of Brampton, lies Hadrian’s Wall Country Yurts (from £218 for a yurt sleeping two adults and two children for two nights, hadrianswallglamping.com). There are two yurts – both have woodburners, one has a wood-fired hot tub – and they share a paddock on a smallholding that rears sheep, chickens, and the owners’ small children. Guests can take atmospheric walks at dusk to some of the best-preserved sections of the wall. Eight miles east at Walltown country park near Greenhead , there is a self-guided, geolocated sound walk, Collision and Conflict, which uses music, sound and storytelling to explore these borderlands via a GPS-triggered app (until 1 October). For more outdoor adventuring there’s the Pennines AONB , and Northumberland national park – renowned for its stargazing. For a pint or three, Walton village’s Old Vicarage Brewery has a cosy bar serving its own ale and those of other microbreweries. It also has room s for £75 B&B.

Delving into the past in Avebury, Wiltshire

You can now stay at one of six new self-catering stable units at the Farm at Avebury , making it easier to visit the neolithic and bronze-age attractions of the North Wessex Downs area of outstanding natural beauty this autumn. The 12-hectare family holding is in the middle of Avebury world heritage site , home to prehistoric Silbury Hill, the West Kennet Long Barrow tomb and the world’s largest stone circle. It’s surrounded by a patchwork of fields and round barrows that’s perfect for walking. Contemporary and self-contained, the stable units only opened in July, and there’s still plenty of availability till the end of November. The stables sleep between two and six, or you can rent the lot for a big family get-together. The farm sells produce boxes containing its own eggs, grass-fed beef, farm-made rapeseed oil and more. Less than a five-minute walk away is the 17th-century thatched Waggon & Horses pub. One-bedroom stable from £99 a night (two-night minimum)

Cooking, wild food and carving in the Cotswolds

A handful of new activities and courses will tempt visitors to linger outdoors in the Cotswolds this autumn. The 200-year-old Burleigh Court manor house (doubles from £129) near Minchinhampton has launched a Wild Foodie Foraging experience (from £65, or £239 for a couple with overnight stay) that includes a foraging walk and a wild food lunch prepared by the head chef Shaun Jones. The hotel is also running new three-hour autumnal wild wreath-making sessions with cream tea (£69) on 2 and 10 October. For wood-gathering and fire cooking or limestone carving, Cotswolds National Landscape (formerly the AONB) has new experience days (from £45) running through October. It has teamed up with Cotswold Hideaways to offer rural skills weekend packages, with 10% off experience days for visitors staying at properties such as the Garden Studio near Stroud, a cosy one-bedroom apartment which has availability in October from £399 for three nights.

Literature in Manchester

After the physical event was cancelled last year, the Manchester literature festival (9-17 October) is back with live talks and readings for 2021, including sessions with Booker prize winner Bernardine Evaristo and Primal Scream frontman Bobby Gillespie. Manchester became a Unesco city of literature in 2017, thanks to its historic ties to radical writers including Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. They worked together at Chetham’s Library (free, closed weekends), founded in 1653 and thought to be the oldest public library in the world, which has just reopened after a multimillion-pound renovation. In between literary sessions, grab a beer at local Cloudwater Brew Co ’s new Piccadilly taproom. The Kimpton Clocktower hotel on Oxford Street, opened last year, has loft-style rooms inside the sumptuously restored Grade II-listed building. Doubles at Kimpton Clocktower from £135 room-only in October

Art and culture in Great Yarmouth

Banksy’s visit over the summer gave Great Yarmouth’s arts scene a leg up, adding to the Norfolk resort’s growing street art collection. Take a walk to find murals by John Dashwood, which speak to the town’s literary and seafaring heritage, and the Yarmouth mural by Kevin Parker, one of 30 that social enterprise group Reprezent Projects is having painted to engage young people and attract visitors. For October, the team behind May’s Norwich festival is launching Norfolk Wonder, including a new sound trail for Great Yarmouth by composer Ela Orleans. In time for half-term, the spectacular pyrotechnics display Fire on the Water (£6 for up to 6 people, 21-31 October and 3-6 November) will bring a new night-time performance trail to the resort’s Waterways pleasure park, with dance, acrobatics, water projections, light installations and fire shows. Clippesby Hall campsite has some October availability in its Tilly shepherd’s hut, which sleeps two adults and two children, from £130 for two nights

Waterfalls in Wensleydale, Yorkshire Dales

Petite Temple Folly , operated by farm holiday outfit Wensleydale Experience, offers a unique stay, with a fire pit for stargazing and a wood-fired hot tub for two. The nearest village is Aysgarth, a mile away, famous for its triple-drop waterfall once painted by JMW Turner. The walkers’ hub of Hawes is just a little further, home to Wensleydale Creamery, with tastings of the area’s most famous product, and Wensleydale Experience’s farm, which offers award-winning tours and hands-on farming days alongside a handful of yurts. Hardraw Force is another cascade worth seeing, reached by a pretty riverside trail. At the trailhead, the wood-beamed Green Dragon Inn serves homemade pies by an open hearth. Temple Folly sleeps two for £15 0 a night in October (three-night minimum, limited availability), wensleydale-experience.com

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Planning an England trip in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit

Feb 26, 2024 • 10 min read

Gracious Bath is an excellent place to immerse yourself in England’s history and beauty © gowithstock / Shutterstock

The story of  England  stretches back more than 5000 years (and likely many more). Which means its impossible to escape the past here.

As you wander its historic urban centers, mysterious monoliths, misty landscapes and rugged  coastlines  and national parks , you’ll discover a country filled with unparalleled places to visit that are are the more compelling thanks to all those who have visited them before.

As you plan a trip to England this year, here’s our list of 16 historic, exciting and all-around fabulous highlights to consider.

1. The Seven Sisters 

While  Dover ’s iconic white cliffs grab the most attention, the colossal chalky walls of the Seven Sisters are a more spectacular affair, a four-mile roller-coaster of sheer white rock stretching along the Sussex shore and overlooking the waters of the English Channel. It forms an impressive southern border to the South Downs National Park , and is most dramatic at the towering headland of Beachy Head . Hikes through the grassy clifftop fields provide wide sea views, breathtaking in every sense.

Local tip:  Stop for a breather at the tiny seaside hamlet of Birling Gap, where the secluded beach is a sun trap popular with locals and walkers.

Oxford  lets visitors feel close to the brilliant minds and august institutions that have made this city famous across the globe. This rarefied world comes to life in the cobbled lanes and ancient quads where cycling students and eccentric academics roam. The beautiful college buildings and stunning architecture have changed little over the centuries, coexisting with a lively, modern, working city. As befits a city of students and professors, Oxford is one of the last bastions of the great British pub, with irresistible old watering holes dotted all over its central lanes and alleyways. 

3. Cambridge

In England’s other great historic university city, Cambridge , you can tour a  college , and spend time marveling at the intricate vaulting of King’s College Chapel . But no trip to Cambridge is complete without an attempt to take a punt (flat-bottomed boat) along the River Cam by the picturesque Backs , the leafy, green lawns behind the city's finest colleges – an experience that offers the best views of the exquisite architecture. Polish off the day with a pint at one of Cambridge’s many rustic pubs. 

In a nation packed with pretty cities, Bath  stands out as the belle of the ball. Founded by the Romans, who established the spa resort of Aquae Sulis to take advantage of the area’s hot springs , Bath hit its stride in the 18th century, when the rich industrialist Ralph Allen and architects John Wood the Elder and John Wood the Younger oversaw the city’s transformation into a model of Georgian architecture at its most refined . Bath is awash with golden stone townhouses, sweeping green crescents and Palladian mansions, along with appealing pubs and restaurants, and you’ll take great pleasure in plunging in. 

5. Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the country's most dramatic Roman ruins, a 2000-year-old procession of abandoned forts, garrisons, towers and milecastles marching across the wild and lonely landscape of northern England. While the Romans built the fortification to defend and control its territory, this edge-of-empire barrier also symbolized the boundary of civilized order in the ancient world: to the north of the Roman settlement lay the unruly land of the marauding Celts. Near Newcastle  you can visit Segedunum , the wall’s last stronghold, for an insight into life during Roman times.

Planning tip:  Hiking the full 84-mile distance coast to coast along the national trail takes around a week. If you have less time and your own car, you may want to select from a few of the wall's  highlights .

With its Roman and Viking heritage, ancient city walls and maze of cobbled streets, York is a living record of English history. A magnificent circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of “snickelways” (narrow alleys), each one the focus of a ghost story or historical character. At the city’s heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster , the biggest medieval cathedral in all of northern Europe, and one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world. Admire feats of engineering of a more recent vintage at the National Railway Museum , the world’s largest collection of historic locomotives.

York’s long history and rich heritage are woven into virtually every brick and beam, and the modern, tourist-oriented city – with its myriad museums, restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs – is a carefully maintained showcase of that heritage.

Local tip: You’ll find some of the finest views of York from its old city walls, particularly the bucolic section behind the Minster. 

7. The Peak District

Curiously, you won’t find many peaks in the Peak District . You will find blissful miles of tumbling moorland, plunging valleys, eroded gritstone crags, lush farmland and ancient pocket-sized villages. This beautiful landscape attracts a veritable army of outdoor enthusiasts – cyclists, hikers, cavers and rock climbers – on summer weekends, while those seeking more relaxing enjoyment can admire the rural market and famous puddings of Bakewell, the Victorian pavilions of spa-town Buxton, and the architectural drama of Chatsworth House – the “Palace of the Peak.”

8. Brighton

Barely an hour’s train ride from the capital, the seaside city of Brighton has a quirky character that’s completely its own. Overlooking the English Channel on England’s pebbly south coast, this is a city that's long been known for its oddball, alternative character. The warren of streets known as the Lanes is a good place to soak up the vibe, with vegan cafes, espresso bars, chaotic pubs, record stores and bric-a-brac shops. (Browsers will be in heaven at local institution Snooper’s Paradise .) You'll also find the UK ’s biggest queer scene here, and the region’s best small clubs. The highlight for the sightseeing visitor is the Royal Pavilion , a 19th-century party palace built by the Prince Regent, who kicked off Brighton’s love of the outlandish.

9. Stonehenge

Mysterious and compelling, Stonehenge is England’s most famous ancient site . Even though people have been drawn to this myth-laden ring of boulders for more than 5000 years, we still don’t know quite why it was built. An ultramodern makeover at the ancient site has brought an impressive visitor center and the closure of an intrusive road (now restored to grassland). The result is a strong sense of historical context, with dignity and mystery returned to an archaeological gem.

Most visitors gaze at the approximately 25-ton stones from behind the perimeter fence, yet with enough planning, you can arrange an early-morning or evening tour and gain access to the inner ring itself. In the slanting sunlight, away from the crowds, it’s an ethereal place. This is an experience that stays with you.

10. Stratford-upon-Avon

The pretty town of Stratford-upon-Avon is where William Shakespeare was born and later shuffled off this mortal coil. Today, its tight knot of Tudor streets form a living map of Shakespeare’s life. Huge crowds of thespians and theater lovers come to take in a play at the famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre . Bard fans will love visiting the five historic houses owned by Shakespeare and his relatives and  the schoolroom where he was educated, before taking a respectful detour to the old stone church where he was laid to rest.

11. Liverpool

It’s hard not to be infected by Liverpudlians’ love for their hometown. The love endured despite decades of decay and all manner of social ills – finding its expression in a renowned gallows humor and an obsession with football. With some of the most passionate crowds in the country, taking in a game at either Liverpool FC or Everton FC is a rite of passage here.

Outside of the stadium, the rejuvenated waterfront is once again the heart of Liverpool . The focal point is Albert Dock, an iconic docklands flanked by protected buildings, including a batch of top museums. The Merseyside Maritime Museum and the International Slavery Museum ensure the good and bad sides of Liverpool’s history are explored in equal measure, while the Tate Liverpool and the Beatles Story museum celebrate popular culture and the city’s most famous musical sons (still).

12. The Cotswolds

A tangle of impossibly quaint villages of rose-clad cottages and honey-colored stone, The Cotswolds  is a region that spreads over six English counties. It’s a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and its most wonderful quality is that no matter where you go or how lost you get, you’ll still end up in a spot with a charming village green, a pub with sloping floors and fine ales, and a view of the lush green hills. Crisscrossed by long-distance trails including the 102-mile Cotswold Way , these gentle yet dramatic hills are perfect for walking, cycling and horse-riding.

Local tip: It’s easy to leave the crowds behind and find your very own slice of medieval England here – and some of the best boutique hotels in the country.

A little weird, occasionally weather-beaten and all-around wonderful, the classic northern seaside town of Whitby has haunted lanes, fossil-hunting and arguably England’s finest fish-and-chips. The huddle of 18th-century fisher’s cottages along the East Cliff are testament to its longtime role as a busy commercial and fishing port: it was here that 18th-century explorer Captain James Cook earned his sea legs. Atop the West Cliff, a sandy beach, amusement arcades and promenading holidaymakers show Whitby’s beach-resort side.

Keeping a watchful eye over the town and the River Esk that divides it is an atmospheric ruined abbey , the inspiration and setting for part of Bram Stoker’s Gothic horror story Dracula . But tales of witchery and ghostly legends have haunted Whitby ever since Anglo-Saxon St Hilda landed here to found a monastic community in 657 CE.

Planning tip: The town embraces its pseudo-sinister reputation, which culminates in two hugely successful Goth Weekends each year.

14. The Lake District

William Wordsworth and his Romantic friends were the first to champion the charms of the Lake District  – and it's not hard to see what stirred them. Already the UK’s most popular national park, the Lake District also became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, in recognition of its long history of hill-farming. But for most people it’s the chance to hike the humpbacked fells and drink in the gorgeous scenery that keeps them returning year after year.

The region is filled with outdoor pursuits, from lake cruises to mountain walks – excursions that help reveal why the region has such deep literary connections. In addition to Wordsworth, writers who found inspiration here include Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Arthur Ransome and Beatrix Potter.

15. The Eden Project

A cross between a lunar landing station and a James Bond villain’s lair, the gigantic hemispherical greenhouses of the Eden Project  have become a symbol of Cornwall ’s renaissance. Built in an abandoned clay pit near St Austell to mark the start of the new millennium, and now considered one of Britain’s modern architectural wonders, the Eden Project aims to explore issues of environment and conservation, and point the way to a cleaner, greener future for us all.

Exhibits cover everything from global warming to rubber production and chocolate-making. The glass-domed “biomes” recreate major world climate systems in microcosm, from the lush jungles of the Amazon rainforest (complete with treetop walkway winding through the canopy) to the olive trees, citrus groves and colorful flowers of the Mediterranean, South Africa and California. It’s incredibly impressive – not to mention educational, and inspiring, too.

Shoulder-deep in history, London ’s rich seams of eye-opening antiquity appear at every turn. The city’s architecture pens a beguiling biography, and a multitude of buildings – the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey , Big Ben – are internationally recognizable landmarks. It’s also a tireless innovator of art and culture, a city of ideas and imagination. This legacy is enshrined at world-class institutions such as the British Museum , Natural History Museum  and the Science Museum , as well as such world-leading art galleries as the  Tate Modern , Tate Britain , the National Gallery  and the recently reopened National Portrait Gallery , all of which are free to visit. 

Local tip:  However you budget your time and money in London, make sure you take in a show. Big names perform on  the West End (London’s equivalent of Broadway), and on the South Bank at the National Theatre  and  the Old Vic . Smaller theaters from the Almeida to the Lyric Hammersmith are places to discover up-an-coming talent.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2024

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The 15 best places to visit in the UK in 2024

From charming seaside spots to bustling cities, we’ve got all the staycation inspo you need right here

For all the bucket list places around the world, it can be easy to forget that we actually have some pretty amazing places to explore right here on our doorstep. Sure, the British weather can have a mind of its own and train travel can leave a lot to be desired, but if you’re willing to put up with all of that, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what there is to discover. 

From quaint coastal towns with trailblazing restaurants and bustling cities with an edge of their own, to gorgeous islands that feel nothing like the UK , these are the parts of the country that should hands-down be on your staycation wishlist for next year. These places have thriving food, drink and arts scenes, they’re home to exciting new openings and they have plenty of big events for you to scribble into your calendar, pronto. 

Thinking of planning a holiday a little closer to home next year? By sifting through all of the hottest launches for next year and using our expert knowledge of cultural scenes around the country,  Time Out’s UK team has curated the very best British destinations for you to plan a trip to in 2024. And the best part? Y ou can visit most of them easily, cheaply and without having to catch a flight. Time to get booking!

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in the UK 🏖️ The best  seaside towns in the UK 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in the UK

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Where to visit in the UK in 2024

1.  Bristol

Should we really be surprised that (apparently) everyone is moving to Bristol ? Its cultural scene is just as exciting as London ’s, but it’s still only a short coach journey away; it has picture-perfect streets and bustling, diverse nightlife. And i n 2024, its arts offering is only getting better. A musical adaptation of the 2006 film ‘ Starter for Ten ’ is coming to the renowned Old Vic theatre from February 29 to March 30, while   DIASPORA! , a brand new festival showcasing BIPOC global ethnic majority artists – across theatre, dance, music, visual and digital arts, as well as poetry and spoken word – is launching in May.   Undershed , a new immersive gallery, is on track to launch in Spring, and   Boxhall   – a street food, beer and events space by the same people who behind London’s   Boxpark   – will also open its doors.   

The perfect day Start with grabbing a coffee from Clifton Coffee Roasters  before pottering around Gloucester Road and perusing the many shops (it’s the largest strip of independent retailers in Europe). Then, hop on a Bristol Ferry water bus tour  to see the city from the water . Finally, feast on a dinner of Spanish small plates at Bravas (or check out one of the city’s other excellent restaurants ), before heading out to rave the night away at one of the many DIY-style clubs . 

Plan your trip The 2024 edition of Bristol’s newest music festival, Forwards , takes place on August 31 and September 1. 2023 headliners included Aphex Twin, Erykah Badu and Raye .

📍 The best things to do in Bristol 🍴 The   best  restaurants in Bristol

2.  Hull

Hull became a surprising capital for the UK’s LGBTQ+ community in 2023. From  Monroe’s   to Unit 49 and Cherry’s – named after the late ‘Ru Paul’s Drag Race’ star Cherry Valentine – an influx of new gay bars and clubs means Hull’s new Freedom Quarter is slowly growing its ecosystem of queer-friendly spaces. As well as its thriving LGBTQ+ scene, in 2017 the East Yorkshire city was also named the city of culture. It’s got The Deep , an enormous aquarium with 3000 species, a picturesque old town which survived the city’s relentless WWII bombings, and lots of up and coming indie art galleries like Ground and Artlink . Don’t sleep on Hull.

The perfect day  Get your caffeine fix at Still. by Two Gingers Coffee before having a wonder around Hull’s charming old town or pottering in the shops at Hepworth’s Arcade . After that, head to indie events space Ground to check out whatever arty happenings they have on. Finally, stop for a pint at Ye Olde White Hart before heading to one of the infamous 13-hour parties (yes, really) at Gate No. 5 .

Plan your visit Pride in Hull will take place on July 29, 2024. 

📍 The best things to do in Hull

3.  Isles of Scilly

A lot of people say that the Isles of Scilly are the British version of the Caribbean – and you know what? We’d totally agree. This stunning archipelago off the coast of Cornwall is largely unspoilt, with white stretches of sandy beaches, turquoise waters and plenty of opportunities to go island hopping and dolphin spotting. But there’s more, too: head to the local museum to immerse yourself in the islanders’ deep sense of culture and tradition, sink yourself silly on local ales at seaside pubs or indulge your sense of adventure by snorkelling over the many under-the-sea shipwrecks. Bliss. 

The perfect day Travel to the islands by Skybus from Land’s End – it only takes 20 minutes, and there’s a gorgeous view. Once you arrive, make your way over to St Mary’s Riding Centre to take in the stunning scenery on horse-back. If that’s not your thing, hire bikes and explore the coastal trails of St. Mary’s islands before taking a transfer boat to St. Agnes to visit the Turks Head for a hearty pub lunch made using local ingredients. Once your food goes down? It has to be time for a swim.

Plan your trip The Isle of Scilly food festival is a ten-day celebration of local provenance taking place in September, with mouth-watering events like beach BBQs and vineyard tours.

📍 The best places to visit in Cornwall

4.  London

Ah, good old London . No matter how many times you’ve visited or how long you’ve lived there, you’ll always find new things to discover in the capital. There are a tonne of new restaurants to feast at, all sorts of gorgeous hotel openings and plenty of fresh cultural things to do. Most notably, in 2024, you can dance at Drumsheds , the mammoth warehouse club housed in a former IKEA, catch a blockbuster exhibition – like Yoko Ono at the Tate Modern or The World of Tim Burton at the Design Museum – and see epic new West End performances ( Mean Girls , anyone?).

The perfect day  For lunch, grab a delicious loaded sandwich at Dom’s Subs on Hackney Road for (or treat yourself to a boujee meal out at Morito ), before perusing the cute independent shops on Columbia Road and gawking over the even cuter animals at Hackney City Farm . Head over to Soho for a late-afternoon pint at the iconic French House , then round off your day with a delicious pre-theatre dinner at the newly opened Forza Wine at the National Theatre , before catching a play. 

Plan your trip Book tickets to see the stage adaptation of Studio Ghibli’s ‘ Spirited Away ’, taking place at the London Coliseum from April 30 until August 24.

📍 The best things to do in London 🍴 The best restaurants in London

5.  Belfast

The Norn Iron capital is criminally underrated. If you’re yet to discover its welcoming warmth and cultural vibrance, 2024 is the year to change that. Over the next twelve months Belfast has mega ambitions to deliver its biggest ever cultural celebration via a project dubbed ‘ Belfast 2024 ’. Set around the theme of ‘People, Place and Planet’, the whopping programme of 24 large-scale commissions and over 200 events, workshops and activities includes a collaboration with the Eden Project, a guerilla gardening scheme aimed at rewilding the peace walls in the west of the city and an immersive music showcase celebrating Belfast’s contemporary Black culture.

The perfect day Begin with a wholesome morning stroll through the Botanic Gardens , followed by a hefty brunch at Output . Then wander through the parliament buildings at Stormont and the monumental Titanic Belfast museum. In the evening, find your way to The Muddlers Club hidden within the historic back streets of the Cathedral Quarter, or if you’d rather eat in, order from cult favourite Mexican place Boojums . Round off the evening by grabbing a pint accompanied by some banging live music at the Dirty Onion .

Plan your trip  The cultural celebrations kick off from March and will run through to November. Make sure to be in the city on March 17 for an ‘enhanced’ edition of St Patrick’s Day shindigs.

📍 The best things to do in Belfast

6.  St Andrews

Forgive us for including two Scottish seaside towns in this list (see: number 14), but it’s a good excuse to plan a road trip, right? A coastal gem in the Kingdom of Fife, St Andrews is home to an ancient university, three stunning beaches, botanic gardens, multiple pubs, a famous golf course and not much else. But it’s also beautiful, extremely walkable and very peaceful, and if you’re after a bit more action, it’s also close enough to Dundee to plan a day trip to the renowned V&A museum . St Andrews has also been tipped to be a hit set-jetting destination for 2024 with the town featuring heavily in the final season of ‘ The Crown ’, thanks to it to being where Prince William met Kate Middleton while at university. Fans, come this way.

The perfect day Line your stomach with a delicious fry up from Northpoint (which claims, like many places in town, to be where ‘Will met Kate’). Then, you’ll probably want to go for a lofty beach walk on West Sands, where ‘Chariots of Fire’ was filmed, before returning to town for some fresh fish and chips from Cromar’s (if the weather allows, eat them on another nearby beach: Castle Sands). In the evening, catch a local show at The Byre Theatre  or sink some pints at one of the town’s many pubs: Aikman’s and Brew Co. are very good choices.

Plan your trip  V isit in July: most of the students will have left for the summer and you might actually get to enjoy the beach with some sun.

📍 The essential guide to Scotland

7.  Lewes

‘Like a box of toys under a great amphitheatre of chalk hills... on the whole it is set down better than any town I have seen in England’: so said William Morris about Lewes in the 1800s. The sloping Sussex town has been a favoured haunt of artsy progressives, not least Virginia Woolf, Vanessa Bell and the rest of the bohemian Bloomsbury set. In 2023, it gained a brand new cultural space in the form of Charleston in Lewes (head here in the new year to catch the ‘Bring No Clothes: Bloomsbury and Fashion’ exhibition, closing March 3). There’s more, too: as you wonder Lewes’ charming wonky streets you’ll stumble past the former home of Anne of Cleves, Lewes Castle , a hodgepodge of artisan stores and delicious foodie spots – as well as the most bonkers pub in the UK, the Lewes Arms.

The perfect day  Take the brand new Sussex Art Shuttle and travel a short distance outside of town to see Charleston Farmhouse , before heading back for a veggie burger at Bun and Bean and a pastry dessert from Flint Owl Bakery . Spend the afternoon learning about the history of the castle and Lewes Priory , then browse the independent shops in The Needlemakers . Finish with a meal and a movie at Depot .

Plan your trip  The stunning Glyndebourne Opera House is hosting a festival of world class opera from May 16 to August 25, while the incredible extravaganza that is Lewes Bonfire Night is taking place around November 5.

📍 The best things to do in Lewes

8.  Newcastle

There’s plenty to shout about in Newcastle (and not just the nightlife, though we love that too). The city’s food scene already had a pretty good reputation, but new openings in 2023 have really seen it thrive, like natural wine and pizza spot Bawn  and new brunch spot Cafeteria :  a sort of posh style greasy spoon, which seem to be all the range now. Pair this with a load of great galleries and pubs, the legendary Wylam Brewery and Tyneside Cinema and seriously reasonable prices and you’ve got a cracking weekend away. Or you might just want to pack up and move there. It happens. 

The perfect day  Grab a coffee (with a view) at La Verne Vintage , before walking waterside and over the Quayside bridge. Head to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art and wander through whatever exhibition is on, before heading to the very top floor for fantastic views over the city. Then head to Ouseburn, Newcastle’s coolest neighbourhood, and grab a pint and a banging vegan lunch at The Ship Inn . If you’ve got an itching for more art, check out the Biscuit Factory next door. After a few more pints, hit up World Headquarters for a night on the Toon. 

Plan your trip  The Newcastle Fringe 2024 will run from July 18 to  29. Catch shows at the very cool Northern Stage as well as a number of pubs. 

📍 The best things to do in Newcastle

9.  Falmouth

Falmouth has always been Cornwall’s cooler town. Home to Exeter and Falmouth university campuses, student life here has brought a bit of vibrancy and edge to the quiet cobbled streets – but there’s always been a glaring gap when it came to the question of nightlife. Recently, though – thanks to new music venue  The Cornish Bank  –  its late night credentials have shot up. From Klub Nos Lowen, a cult folk music night, to up and coming indie bands, this spot is the ideal place to absorb some of the county’s best culture.

The perfect day  Start with a paddle at Gyllyngvase Beach, then warm yourself up with a coffee at Gylly beach cafe . Then check out the independent boutiques and galleries on the high street. (Shout out to Mirri Damer jewellery and Wild Pony vintage.) After grabbing some grub from Harbour Lights fish and chips, head to Chain Locker for a harbourside pint before moseying on to a gig at The Cornish Bank. If you have time, pop in to Beerwolf too, a charming pub/bookshop.

Plan your visit  T he annual worm charming championship  (you read that right)  takes place in late May every year. The Sea Shanty Festival  takes place on June  14 to 16  2024, and Falmouth Week , an extravaganza of music, sailing and local culture, takes place on August  9 to 18 .

📍 The best things to do in Falmouth

10.  Manchester

Manchester never fails to serve up a cultural banquet. After a huge year that saw the launch of Factory International at Aviva Studios, the rescue of grassroots gig venue, The Snug , and the long-awaited reopening of Manchester Museum , 2024 is set to be another big one. The star of the show will be the huge, innovative Co-op Live  which is opening in April, backed by Bruce Springsteen and Harry Styles and already has the likes of Liam Gallagher and Oilvia Rodrigo lined up to perform. And in much-anticipated news for its food scene, L’Enclume chef Tom Barnes is opening his first solo restaurant, Skof , in the Noma district in spring.

The perfect day  Swing by Idle Hands to fuel up on carbs and caffeine before perusing around the Northern Quarter’s indie shops (don’t miss Queer Lit or the Craft and Design Centre). Pick from a huge range of edible options at Mackie Mayor for lunch (or head to the Michelin-starred Where The Light Gets In , for something special) then use the new Visit Manchester Pass to check out the National Football Museum and take a craft beer tour of the city. End with a tipple and live music at YES .

Plan your trip  Head up some time between October 23 and 27 to catch the Worldwide Music Expo , which is set to attract over 2,600 big guns from the global music industry.

📍 The best things to do in Manchester 🍴 The best  restaurants in Manchester

11.  Ramsgate

Last year it was all about Margate , but now, another neighbour has joined Kent’s roster of cosy, culture-filled seaside towns that everyone’s getting obsessed with. Enter: Ramsgate , a walkable gem with a hell of a lot of character. Check out one of its locally-run galleries and studios (including Level 11 , specialising in dog pics), and don’t miss filling up at one of its new food offerings: this year, bar/restaurant Seabird  arrived on the scene , as well as new monthly pop-up Catch at the Camden Arms , serving up a delightful seafood set menu. Oh, and the world’s biggest Wetherspoons is here. You heard us. 

The perfect day  Pull up at Ramsgate Station and stroll towards the seafront, stopping at The Modern Boulangerie on Harbour Street for brunch and a ridiculously good cinnamon roll. Take a coffee to go and spend time checking out Ramsgate’s indie shops, from the records at Vinyl Head to the pottery, books and glass at Island Vintage . Head to the harbour and head out on a seal-spotting boat trip , before grabbing a sunset pint at the Royal Harbour Brasserie . Finally, warm up with pub grub at The Bedford Inn  (top tip: you can rent a room at their brand-new hotel too). 

Plan your trip  Go when it’s sunny and try to catch the town’s  International Film Festival in June or the Festival of Sound in August. 

📍 The best things to do in Ramsgate

12.  Norwich

Hugged by the marshes and woodlands of Broads National Park, Norwich brings the ancient to the contemporary — from its cobbled alleyways and two dazzling cathedrals to the modern exhibitions at the Sainsbury Centre and its Michelin-star prowess. In summer 2024,  Norwich Castle (which was apparently one of Europe’s most important mediaeval fortresses) is set to reveal the results of a mighty £15m revamp, due to include redecorated rooms and the restoration of its 12th century Norman keep. As the self-proclaimed ‘City of Stories’ and England’s first UNESCO City of LIterature, you’ll be enchanted by Norwich’s tale.

The perfect day  Order your morning drink of choice at Strangers Coffee then stop by the city’s 900-year old market on Gentleman’s Walk to check out the organic produce and food stalls. Save room for dessert so that you can enjoy elevenses at Figbar then take in the magnificent architecture of Norwich Cathedral and check out the curiosities hiding within the antique shops on Elm Hill. Round it all off with dinner from Grosvenor Fish Bar .

Plan your trip A c elebration of queer art and ideas, Queerfest Norwich is happening February 8 to 24.

📍 The best things to do in Norwich

13.  Alnmouth

For a tranquil seaside break in 2024, the tiny fishing village of Alnmouth on the border between Scotland and England is a solid bet. Think: wild, windswept walks, pastel-coloured fisherman’s cottages, freshly-caught fish and blissful peace and quiet. Three surrounding beaches make up part of Northumberland’s 40-mile long coastal path — which happens to be a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, recently renamed ‘National Landscapes’ – and as such, there’s a delightful cluster of wildlife to look out for, including adorable puffins and grey seals.

The perfect day Sit down for an A.M. coffee and fresh kippers on toast at Bistro23 before checking out Almouth’s cluster of independent stores like Scots of Alnmouth and Jane and Harry’s. Then stop by the Ferry Hut , a bitesize museum dedicated to the ferrymen of yesteryear. Spend the afternoon adventuring along the coastal path before indulging in a well-earned dinner at The Whittling House .

Plan your trip Alnmouth Arts Festival  is happening on June 15 and 16, with more than 50 designers and craftspeople exhibiting their work in venues throughout the village.

14.  Ullapool

A tiny village and port around 45 miles from Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, Ullapool is well situated for walkers and cyclists to get their dose of the great outdoors: explore the nearby Corrieshalloch Falls, scramble up Stac Pollaidh mountain or to hop on a ferry to the Outer Hebrides. But there’s more to this place than just hiking boots and anoraks. Ullapool also going under something of a cultural renaissance, with Scotland’s most remote club night bringing of-the-moment electronic DJs to the area and The Seafood Shack and new 3AA Rosette restaurant  The Dipping Lugger  attracting foodies from far and near. The town was recently chosen as one of Time Out’s most underrated travel destinations in Europe, so get down soon.

The perfect day Wrap up warm and drive over to the foot of Stac Pollaidh mountain, with its spectacular peak of Torridonian sandstone. Reward yourself with a packed lunch on the top after a two-hour climb, before heading home and warming up in The Ferry Boat Inn  where you can enjoy a slap-up dinner with some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat.

Plan your trip The next Baile/Baile club nights take place on February 3 and March 2, showcasing some of Scotland’s most exciting DJ talent.

15.  Wrexham

Who’d have thought a small Welsh city would have been taken over by Hollywood celebs and become the subject of an extremely popular Disney+ documentary? Wrexham, home to the formerly flailing football club Wrexham AFC, became one of the UK’s hottest tourist destinations after A-listers Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney bought the club in 2020. The city is also home to St Giles’s, one of the most stunning churches in Wales. Then there’s the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – a huge 18-arched stone and cast iron structure carrying the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee – and two National Trust properties, Erddig Parkland and Chirk Castle . In 2024, the national Football Museum for Wales is also expected to open, with exhibitions on Welsh language communities, fan culture and LGBTQ+ experiences.

The perfect day Start the day at Aussi brunch spot Lot 11 . After fueling yourself, you’re obviously going to want to check out The Racecourse, the stadium that’s home to Wrexham AFC. Then you’ll need to grab a pint at The Turf , the football team’s pub of choice. For the afternoon, hop in the car for a 20 minute drive to check out the gorgeous views from the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and surrounding World Heritage Site.

Plan your trip Wrexham Feast , an annual food and drink festival, takes place in late September.

📍 The best things to do in Wrexham

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When is the best time to visit the UK? (Seasonal & monthly guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the UK but unsure of the best time of year to visit? In this article discover what each season has to offer as well as a month by month guide to major events across the UK. Everything you need to know to help you make the right decision for your trip.

If you’re dreaming of having a spot of tea in England or envisioning a bagpipe serenade on the moors of Scotland, then it sounds like you’re on the verge of planning one heck of a British vacation. The question is, when is the best time to visit the UK?

There are many considerations to make when planning your trip , including the pros and cons of travelling “in season,” what types of activities you want to do and especially what kind of weather should you expect.

In this article, we will answer all commonly asked questions including

• what you can expect from the weather during each season
• the dates of school and public holidays – and the pros and cons of travelling during these peak times
• expected hours of daylight throughout the year and the impact this can have on your plans
• what (and when) major events occur throughout the year
• plus a guide to the best time to visit England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

FAQ’s about the best time of year to visit the UK

Many questions about when is the best time to visit the UK invariably revolve around the weather. The only certainty about the UK weather is that is unpredictable.

• When is winter in the UK?

The winter months ranges from mid-November to early March.

• When is summer in the UK?

The summer months range from early June to the end of August.

• Can I see the Northern Lights in the UK?

For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) head to to Northern Scotland.

• What is the rainiest month in the UK?

Although December to February are the months that tend to have the most rainfall in the UK (and often can fall as snow especially on higher ground) expect rain at any time of year.

• What is the hottest month of the year in the UK?

During the summer months expect generally warm to hot weather with July (on average) the month with the highest average temperatures.

• When is peak season in the UK?

Peak season in the UK is July and August. This also coincides with school holidays across the country.

• When is the shoulder season in the UK?

Shoulder season in the UK is May, June and September.

• When are the major public holidays in the UK?

In addition to Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays there are a number of public holidays (called ‘Bank” holidays) throughout the year including May Day Bank Holiday (first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May – and yes there are two Bank Holiday weekends in May!), and the Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)

• FAQ's about the best time of year to visit the UK

The weather

Pros and cons of visiting the uk during peak season, advantages of visiting the uk during shoulder season, pros and cons of visiting the uk during low season, impact of daylight hours, when is the best time to visit england, when is the best time to visit scotland, when is the best time to visit wales, when is the best time to visit northern ireland, essential guides, when is the best time to visit london, happy uk travel planning, when is the best time to visit the united kingdom.

Factors to consider when planning your trip

• Pros and cons of travelling during Peak Season, Shoulder Season or Low Season
• The impact of daylight hours

The UK is a small island divided into 4 separate nations — England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland . Each has their own cultural identities and attractions to consider, not to mention their own weather idiosyncrasies.

Basically though, the entire UK has a temperate climate with warm summers that never get too hot and cold winters that never get too cold.

The UK weather is, however, famously unreliable and generally not the primary reason to visit the UK! Think about your many clothing options when packing— and don’t forget the umbrella (my UK packing guide for every season will help!)

The answer to the question, ‘When is the best time of year to visit the UK?’ really depends on what you’re looking for. The UK’s warmest weather is in the summer. Autumn and spring are charming but may be a little bit chilly for certain outdoor activities. Winter can be cold, blustery and damp, though it usually only snows around 24 days out of the year.

Spring in the UK begins in March and goes through to the end of May. The weather starts off cold and rainy but becomes more mild as the months progress. Finally, by the end of May and beginning of June, the UK starts to warm up. The average maximum temperatures are as follows:

• March, 12°C (54°F)
• April, 15°C (59°F)
• May, 18°C (64°F)
• June, 21°C (70°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in spring

The summer is generally very pleasant in the UK and tends to be dryer than in the autumn and winter months. The summer begins in June and ends in early September. The average maximum temperatures for the summer months are as follows:

• July, 23°C (73°F)
• August, 23°C (73°F)
• September, 20°C (68°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in summer

Autumn goes from September through to the end of November. Days change from crisp to blustery and then get downright cold. There tends to be a higher level of precipitation during these months as well. The average maximum temperatures for the autumn months are as follows:

• October, 16°C (61°F)
• November, 12°C (54°F)
• December, 9°C (48°F)

It can get rather bleak and cold in the UK during the winter months, which go from the start of December through to the end of February. The average maximum temperatures for the UK in winter months are as follows:

• January, 9°C (48°F)
• February, 9°C (48°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in winter

Peak season for travel in the UK are the summer months of July and August. These dates also coincide with the long 6 week summer school holidays (and hopefully sunny weather)

What are the pros of visiting the UK during peak season?

• The UK weather is generally at its best during these months.
• Hours of daylight are long which means more time to explore the sights.
• Some of the UK’s major events occur during July (Wimbledon) and August (Edinburgh Festival)
• Many historic sights have special events on especially for families e.g jousting at Warwick Castle.

What are the cons of traveling during peak season?

• It is the most expensive time of year to visit and prices for flights, accommodation and transportation can be sky-high.
• Main attractions across the country are busy – buy tickets ahead of time (skip the line tickets are worth the expense unless you enjoy wasting precious holiday time in a queue!)
• Restaurants and hotels are jam-packed.
• Roads are busy and traffic jams are common which can add to the stress if you are planning to hire a car for a road trip

Shoulder season in the UK is in May, early June, September and early October.

What are the pros of visiting the UK during shoulder season?

• Less expensive than peak season
• Better availability for accommodation
• Some of the UK’s most popular events occur during these months such as the Chelsea Flower Show (May), Trooping of the Colour (June)
• Less crowded (though the Bank holidays can be busy)
• There are 2 public (bank) holidays in May (first and last Mondays of May) and many popular historical sights organize events especially for families over these long weekends.
• Expect fewer crowds at popular attractions (though school groups may visit museums, art galleries, and castles during term time)
• Long daylight hours

November through to April is generally considered to be the low season for travel to the UK.

Note that some parts of the UK such as London and Edinburgh experience significant numbers of tourists during December and early January which can significantly impact costs.

Pros of visiting the UK during the low season

• Budget friendly
• Less crowded
• Enjoy special events over the festive period including Christmas markets, Christmas lights and decorations in major cities and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cons of visiting the UK during the low season

• Weather can be very cold (expect snow during the winter months)
• Daylight hours are reduced (it can get dark as early as 3.30 pm)
• Many popular attractions are closed over the winter months.

The amount of daylight you can expect fluctuates greatly across the year and can have a major impact on your plans.

The amount of daylight can also vary depending on your destination within the UK. The further north you travel the more daylight you can expect in summer and the less in winter.

Average hours of daylight in June (longest day)

London – 16 hours +

Scotland – 17 hours +

Average hours of daylight in December (shortest day)

London – 8 hours

Scotland – 7 hours

First of all, there’s no bad time to visit England , though travelling during every season has its advantages and disadvantages. You can, however, expect some seasonal variation in prices, crowd size and availability of activities.

The summer is the peak tourist season, which is from the end of May to early September. The daylight hours are at their maximum, up to 16 hours per day. The weather is usually delightful and kids are off school (July and August). The inevitable consequence is that everyone starts flocking to the tourist destinations and adding to the already long lines and crowds.

If you dream of gallivanting through the English countryside, add throngs of people sharing the roads and limited parking to your vision. Unfortunately, hotel rates and airfare are usually more expensive in the summer. Still, that charming weather can be a lure that outweighs all of those inconveniences.

If you travel in winter, it may be cold and bleak, and the daylight hours will have waned to just 8 to 10 hours per day. That’s the bad news. The good news is you won’t have to fight any crowds or struggle to get a dinner reservation. There will also be deals to be had on hotel rooms and flights. So if your itinerary contains a lot of indoor activities, maybe winter travel is right for you.

If you’re wondering when is a good time to visit London , it’s similar to travelling in the rest of the UK in terms of weather and seasonal availability. There are a few exceptions, however.

Christmas time in the capital city has been an incredibly popular destination for decades, what with the shopping, the decorations and abundant Christmassy charm.

If however you are a royal watcher, consider traveling in the summer when there are more opportunities to have a peek into the royal lifestyle . Many royal residences are open to the public during the summer because the royals themselves are away on vacation.

Taking all of this into consideration, if you want to know when the best time is to visit England, the answer is (if you can) spring or autumn. During these times the weather is favourable and the daylight hours vary from 11 to 15 hours per day, so there’ll be plenty of time for sightseeing.

Taking a road trip through the English countryside (the Cotswolds , Lake District , Peak District or Northumberland are just two suggestions) is gorgeous in the spring or autumn because either the flowers are blooming or the leaves are turning brilliant shades of orange and yellow. While there are crowds they are smaller and more manageable than in the peak summer season.

Just like it did for England, the timing of your Scotland trip depends upon what you activities have planned. The country’s winter may be more suited to hunkering down in an Edinburgh pub rather than hiking through the Highlands. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F) and is likely to be even colder on the coast and in higher attitudes.

Like England, airfares and hotel rooms will generally be cheaper and you won’t have to fight the crowds in the cities or in the train stations. You will, however, need to be ready for the reduced daylight hours. In January, for example, the sun rises at 8:47 a.m. and sets at 3:53 p.m.

There is good news, though. Because of Scotland’s high latitude and particularly dark winter nights, there’s a chance that you will be treated to the aurora borealis or the northern lights — a dazzling and somewhat ethereal light show in the sky.

A summer trip to Scotland is defined by pros and cons.

The pros — you’ll have lovely weather, as it never gets too terribly hot in Scotland. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). The daylight hours are also long. In August, for example, the sun rises at 4:22 a.m. and sets at 8:03 p.m.

There will be a lot to do, like hiking, camping, driving tours, beautiful train journeys , exploring the cities, islands and the countryside.There are festivals for every taste, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival  in Inverness.

Now for some cons — July and August are peak months for travel, and the crowds will be significantly larger and the prices will be higher. If you don’t mind competing for a little space and paying more for the privilege, then a summer trip may just be the perfect one for you.

As with England, visiting Scotland in the late spring/early summer or early autumn is ideal. By June, Scotland gets an amazing 17 hours of daylight. That combined with the spring’s pleasant weather, an average of 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F), and you will be able to conquer every outdoor activity there is to offer.

If you would prefer to spend your time in Scotland’s cities, the good news is that the summer tourists haven’t arrived yet, so lines won’t be as long and the prices will be more reasonable. The same thing is true for an autumn visit. Starting in November through middle December, airfares tend to be cheaper.

Early autumn is an ideal time of year to drive North Coast 500 , a spectacular 516-mile trip from Inverness along Scotland’s North Highlands that might be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

No matter when you visit Wales , remember, the weather can be unpredictable and you should pack well and be prepared for a variety of temperatures.

The temperature in winter averages 6°C (43°F), but compared to Scotland, there is a good amount of daylight — sunrise is around 7:40 a.m. and sunset is around 6:28 p.m. In spite of the cooler weather, daffodils have been known to make their cheerful appearance late in the winter.

Another plus, if you travel on or near March 1st, you can join the locals in celebrating St. David’s Day. The patron saint of Wales is feted with parades, traditional Welsh dress and plenty of delicious food, not to mention scores of daffodils and leeks.

The summer is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is very agreeable, although the region can get quite a bit of rain. There is between 15-16 hours of daylight during the summer. Temperatures average 16 °C (61 °F), so hiking and camping would be fantastic during this time, as would any coastal family trips.

If you wish to see the Atlantic Puffins take over the island of Skomer, then early July is the time to go, especially if you want to see them parenting their new chicks.

Summer is the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and be prepared to book well in advance for hotels (and popular Welsh castle hotel stays ), air travel, restaurants and activities.

The late spring and early autumn are great times to go to Wales. There are between 13 and 16 hours of daylight during both seasons. The temperature usually hovers around 13°C (55°F). In May and June, flowers will be blooming in a riot of colors, making the already breathtaking scenery fully come to life.

The Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile long footpath that winds its way along the coastline, makes for a perfect hike during this time. For something a little different, check out The Laugharne Weekend in West Wales — a local, literary and arts celebration of Dylan Thomas and other writers, musicians and comedians who’ve come from Wales.  

In the autumn, the mountains and valleys look to be on fire with all shades of gold and orange, and the nights begin to get crisp with a touch of chill. Places like Hay-on-Wye, a charming market town on the River Wye become even more magical in the autumn.

There will also be plenty of seasonal activities, such as at the medieval Powis Castle and Garden. Each year they create the Powis pumpkin trail, where kids can search for the carved pumpkins hidden throughout the garden.

If spending a night in a Welsh castle is on your bucket list why not book one of these amazing Welsh castle hotels ?

If you wish to visit Northern Ireland when the temperatures are at their warmest, then go during July and August. The average temperature in the summer is 17°C (63°F), but beware because summertime is also when the country’s rainfall is at its peak.

The summer in Northern Ireland has amazingly long daylight hours, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00pm, so you’ll be able to pack in a lot of activities. It is the peak season, which means you’ll be fighting the crowds as you see the sights.

Also, keep in mind, summer vacations for their school children start a few weeks earlier than they do in England, meaning the tourist sites may be more crowded starting at the end of June.

In winter, Northern Ireland is a little colder than England and has about 7-8 hours of daylight. That won’t matter too much if you seek out Belfast’s St. George’s Market, Northern Ireland’s last surviving Victorian market. In December, they offer twilight days for evening shopping. There will also be crafts from local artisans, delightful food and family entertainment.

Like with the other UK regions, you get the best of everything by visiting in the spring or autumn. By late spring, you’ll start to see lambs and calves in the pastures as the temperatures rise to between 10°C (50°C) to 16°C (60°F).

Visit Rathlin Island in the late spring and you’ll see all kinds of nesting birds and the area’s famous puffins. Also, for those festival fans, check out the two-day Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey festiva l held in early June.

In the autumn, as the leaves are changing colors, it’s a perfect time to visit the Glens of Antrim, or known locally simply as The Glens. It’s a region of County Antrim known for it’s astonishing natural beauty.

In October, the Glens Storytelling Festival is a five-day event for tourists and locals alike to experience the magic of this area’s story telling traditions. Expect family-friendly stories to have a touch of Halloween magic.

Which is the best month to visit the UK? Month by month pros and cons + guide to all the major events in the UK

❄️ Visiting the UK in winter

🌷 Visiting the UK in spring

☀️ Visiting the UK in the summer

🍂 Visiting the UK in autumn

🧣 Visiting Scotland in winter

January in the UK falls within the low tourist season, which creates some distinct advantages for travellers. Students return to school and the cold weather, gloomy skies and waning daylight translate into fewer people, cheaper hotel rooms and inexpensive airfare.

Also, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing, so bargain hunters will have a field day shopping. Theatre tickets and restaurant reservations will also be easier to get. A January trip is sounding better and better. Here are some fun things to do in January:

• New Year’s Day Parade in London —This is a fabulous, free and family-friendly parade in the city’s West End. It’s three and a half hours of music and revere that won’t soon be forgotten.

• Simplyhealth Great Edinburgh Winter Run— If you’re in Scotland and are a fitness buff, join 3000 other hardcore health nuts for this 5k of fun that also affords fantastic views of the city.

• Big Burns Supper in Dumfries Scotland— Part of the country’s Burns Night, this event occurs in the latter half of the month and offers all sorts of venues with everything from comedy to cabaret.

February in the UK falls securely within low season for travellers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fantastic vacation if you choose to travel then. If you don’t mind cooler weather, the seaside towns should be virtually empty, for example.

Keep in mind that UK schools have a half-term break in February, which may cause unexpected crowds at tourist sites. Here are some fun things to do in February:

• V alentine’s Day in London —A visit to multiple artisan chocolate shops would definitely be in order, as would a romantic dinner for two in one of London’s many fine-dining restaurants.

• The Orchid Festival at London’s Kew Gardens —If you adore flowers and don’t want to travel all the way to Indonesia, then this show is not to be missed. There will be over 5000 species of orchids to admire.

• London’s Classic Car Show in Olympia Exhibition Centre —You’ll see some of the finest and most collectable vintage models in the world.

Flowers will be just beginning to bloom throughout the UK, a promise that spring is just around the corner.

March is a shoulder season for tourists, which means it’s not too busy and not too light. So you can throw on a coat and start taking advantage of some of the outdoor fun that the UK has to offer. Here are some fun things to do in March:

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race in London — When is the best time to travel to England? When there are 250,000 screaming rowing fans cheering on the edge of the Thames. This is one of the largest sporting events held in London and it’s free! (Sometimes this event happens in April, so check online to see.)

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival —Are you a comedy fan? In the latter half of March, travel to Scotland and see the funniest stars from all around the UK hit the stage in what is Europe’s largest comedy festival.

• St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland —On March 17th, County Armagh and County Down host the annual Home of Saint Patrick Festival that consists of concerts, family-friendly activities and general fun.

Ah, April. The flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer. It’s a shoulder season, so it’s a pretty good time to enjoy the natural beauty that the UK has to offer without having to brave too many crowds.

Students in the UK have a school break around Easter, which usually falls in this month, so that may alter the tourist scene slightly. Regardless, there are also a lot of fun, local activities to choose from. Here are some examples:

• Isle of Wight Walking Festival —Fun for all ages and all fitness levels. Thousands of locals and tourists alike explore the island and take in its stark, scenic beauty.

• Shakespeare’s Birthday in Stratford-upon-Avon —Celebrate The Bard’s birthday by traveling to his birthplace for performances, music and all kinds of fun.

• Cardiff Flower Show —If you’re a gardener or a flower appreciator and are planning to be in Wales, you might want to visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s Cardiff Flower Show. There are countless exhibits and demonstrations to inspire and fascinate those with or without a green thumb.

The weather is getting ever warmer and the days are getting longer in the UK, yet May is still a shoulder season, which means its an excellent time to visit. Things can get busy over the Bank holiday weekends with many Brits enjoying a spring staycation .

It’s also getting dryer, so rain may not be as much of an issue as it is in other months. Still, bring a few layers to wrap up in, just in case. Here are some fun things to do in May:

• Chelsea Flower Show – Since 1913, except during the two world wars, the famous Chelsea Flower Show has been a glamorous affair celebrating British flowers and garden design. It takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea and makes for a fun and historical activity whilst in the UK.

• Gloucester Docks Tall Ship Festival — Come see tall ships in all of their splendor along with fun and games for the whole family. There will be live stages with local bands as well as a food market

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair – Join over 10,000 locals and tourists at Scotland’s only highland games and country fair. It’s at the magnificent Gordon Castle located near Fochabers in Moray.

The middle of June marks the beginning of peak season for traveling in the UK, so make sure you’ve got those reservations, tickets and bookings well ahead of time.

You have an excellent chance of pleasant weather and agreeable temperatures, so live it up! Here are some fun things to do in June:

• Glastonbury Festival — This world-famous five-day festival takes place in Pilton, Somerset, in the south west of England. It features big-name contemporary musical acts as well as dance, cabaret and theater.

• Gregynog Music Festival — Attention classical music lovers! In the gorgeous Welsh countryside in the village of Tergynon, you’ll find the oldest classical music festival in Wales, which attracts some of the world’s finest musicians.

• The Royal Highland Show — Scotland’s largest agricultural show put on by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Thousands of visitors come from all over the globe to see over 1000 exhibitors and scores of livestock. It’s in Ingliston, an area of West Edinburgh.

July is peak travel season with very long days and probably the best weather offered by the UK. Restaurants will be jam-packed and tourist sites will be overflowing with visitors.

Add in the students who have just been released from school on summer break and you will have a lot of people to contend with. No wonder there is a lot going on the UK during the summer! Here are some examples:

• Wimbledon — In a town called Wimbledon, there’s a little yearly tennis tournament. Actually, it’s probably the most major tournament in the tennis world.

Good to know – If you want to do it on the cheap, go outside the stadium to Henman Hill and buy a £30 ticket to watch the matches on a giant TV. If you want the real thing, then you’ll need to shell out quite a bit more, depending on which match you see.

• The Big Cheese at Caerphilly — History buffs, would you like to be sent back to medieval days at Caerphilly Castle ? See reenactments and battles, along with entertainment, food, period dance and a whole lot of fun.

The weather is warm, so that distracts you from the peak season crowds traveling throughout the UK. All schools are enjoying summer break, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists alike at all the tourist sites.

Here are some fun things to do in August:

• Wilderness Festival —Located in Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park, this festival offers easy-going music, theatrical productions, amazing food and really cool art, all in a gorgeous lakeside setting.

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival — If you like crowds, music and having serious fun, then try out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. It goes on for days and hosts so much talent, it takes hundreds of venues just to fit everything in. Check their website to see the list of performers.

• The National Eisteddfod — A festival celebrating all things Welsh . It’s in the first 8 days of August and there is food, music, arts and design.

The beginning of September is part of the summer peak season but with the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the rest of the month is a shoulder season.

Most students head back to school early in September, so vacationers return home and tourist sites will be less crowded. Here are some fun things to do in September:

• The Jane Austen Festival — Do you dream of spending a quiet evening with Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet? Travel to Bath and spend 10 days choosing from over 80 Jane Austen-related events. There’s even a Regency Costumed Masked Ball!

• Culture Night Belfast – For the past several years, in the second half of September, people hit the Belfast streets from City Hall to the Cathedral Quarter to enjoy a free celebration of art, language and history of Northern Ireland. There is something to do for all ages.

There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air and Halloween ghosts and goblins are just around the corner. The beginning of October is a shoulder season, and by the end, it slows down into low season. Still, there are lots of interesting things to tackle in the UK during October.

• Harwich International Shanty Festival – For those who can’t resist the call of that salty ocean air, sail on over to Harwich and sing an old song of the sea. There’ll be concerts and barge trips and crafts for the saltiest old sailors to the youngest of landlubbers.

• The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival — Who doesn’t enjoy jazz in a charming rural setting? In 2006, this festival was born and has grown larger every year. It’s a long weekend of all types of music in a variety of venues. You’ll see live blues, jazz, boogie and soul from a huge variety of artists.

This is the low season for travel in the UK. The weather is brisk and it’s best to remember to bring a bunch of comfy layers and a jacket in your suitcase. Here are some fun things to do in November:

• Guy Fawkes Night —This celebration marks the night back in 1605 when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He did not succeed, and the anniversary has traditionally been remembered with a bonfire. Given that could easily get out of hand, most celebrations have switched to fireworks.

• Diwali on Trafalgar Square – Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh people all over the world. This one is the biggest in the UK and features amazing dancers in stunningly beautiful and colorful dress. Expect to see market stalls with amazing food, as well as crafts and fun activities for the whole family.

Yes, it’s pretty chilly in the UK during December, and the days have grown a wee bit short. There’s still a lot to love about this winter month. Keep in mind, that students in the UK usually have the final weeks in December off, so that could affect the crowd levels.

The weeks closest to Christmas are considered a peak tourist season, so there are many Christmas activities to choose from including festive markets all over the UK.

• Belfast Giants Ice Hockey — For something really different, grab the whole family, live like a local and check out an ice hockey game. Their website has all the information about tickets and times.

• Elfingrove at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum —This magnificent museum in Glasgow transforms itself and offers night-time tours along with local food and singing.

This is really a difficult question to answer and really deserves a post all of its own.

Many people insist that it’s Christmas. Trafalgar Square has a giant lit up Christmas tree dripping in ornaments and Christmas cheer. Carol singing and festive events occur all throughout London.

There are several London Christmas Markets that will surely take care of everyone on that Christmas list. There are also a number of festive events held annually around Christmas at many of the castles near London.

But in summer the hours of daylight are longer and exploring London’s attractions on a warm sunny day is also a wonderful experience.

To be honest for me deciding when to visit London is best answered with the words “it is always a good idea!”

Read more – Visiting London in winter | 21 Festive things to do and see in London in December | 29 Things to do in London in Spring | Guide to visiting London in Fall

So the only true answer to the question, “When is the best time to go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?” really does depend on your own interests and available time to go.

Once you have settled on the time of year to visit the UK you are now ready to start planning your trip itinerary.

My UK Trip Planner will help you to plan the perfect UK vacation in 10 easy to follow steps – I recommend starting there!

For UK inspiration my top 21 landmarks in England , 19 places to visit in Scotland , top 10 things to see in Wales , top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland and London bucket list articles are great places to start.

I recommend prioritising what you want to see and do. You can also take some virtual tours of London and UK landmarks and sights to help you plan.

Other useful resources to help you plan your trip:

• How much does a holiday in the UK cost? Read my UK travel budget guide to help calculate your budget!
• Choose from my selection of the best guidebooks for UK travel
• Click here for my recommendations of the best booking sites for travel to the UK
• Prefer an organised tour? Check out our recommendations of the best UK tours available for 2021 and beyond!
• How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

Visiting London in September (All you need to know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

What to expect when you visit London in September – weather, what to see and do, what to pack, and answers to frequently asked questions!

Want to visit London in September? This is a great time to be in the UK capital, with mild weather and fewer crowds than summer. 

This guide covers all you should know about visiting London in September, including temperatures, rainfall, and hours of daylight. Plus what to pack for your trip, and more. If you’re planning a September trip to London, don’t leave home without reading this first.

Here’s the lowdown on what to expect when visiting London in September. Spoiler alert – this is arguably the best month to be in the city!

Daylight hours

What to pack, is september a good time for london, what is going on in london in september, is london still hot in september, take a walking tour, attend totally thames, freebies at open house festival, admire london design festival, how will you enjoy london in september.

Top 5 London Tours in September

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market

Visiting London in September | What to Expect

The London temperature in September is still warm following summer, especially early in the month. It can get colder towards the end, but should remain mild throughout. Around eight days of rain is average, during the first month of autumn. 

• Average high: 20°C / 68°F
• Average low: 13°C / 55°F
• Average days of rain: 8

As autumn begins on 1st September, according to the meteorological calendar, you might expect the temperature to drop. However, September is the fourth-warmest month of the year in London. So the weather is very similar to what you can expect in June, the first summer month. 

Mild weather

The UK has a mild climate, without any extremes as such. There are occasional storms and flash floods, but major weather events are very uncommon in the capital. 

Changeable weather

London, like the rest of the UK, has a maritime climate. The fact that the country is an island means that the weather can change very quickly. So be prepared for rain at any time, even if the skies are clear and cloudless in the morning!

Wet weather 

The UK is famous for its wet weather. In reality, you could visit during September and experience no rain at all – or there might be heavy showers every day. Often, there will be dry or wet spells lasting for several days at a time. It’s simply a matter of luck.

In September, the sun rises between 6.15 and 7 am and sets between 7.45 and 6.40 pm. This gives you around 12 hours or more of daylight during most days of September. 

• Sunrise: Between about 06:15 and 07:00
• Sunset: Between about 19:45 and 18:40

In September, you get plenty of daylight for exploring the city before darker skies set in towards the end of the year. 

At the start of September, the sun doesn’t set until around 7.45 pm. By the end of the month, sunset is at about 6.40 pm. 

Sunrise in early September is at about 6.15 am, and around 7 am by the end of September. 

What to take to London in September includes a wind and waterproof jacket, a travel umbrella, and a strong pair of comfortable walking shoes or boots. You’ll also need extra layers for evenings and colder days. 

While the September weather in London is usually mild, it gets colder during the evenings and overnight. Towards the end of the month, temperatures will also start to drop. Here’s what to wear in London in September.

You’ll do a lot of walking, so make sure you take comfortable shoes you can spend all day in. A change of footwear for the evenings is also a good idea. In September, you could need anything from sandals to boots, so something in-between like trainers or sneakers is ideal if you don’t want to pack too many pairs. 

A waterproof jacket is a necessity during any season in London. Due to the unpredictability of the weather, and cooler evenings, layers can also be key. Garments such as a waterproof jacket with a removable fleece are perfect. A daypack with sufficient space is necessary to carry clothing you might shed as it gets warmer. 

Active trousers with or without zip-off legs are ideal for September when it can be surprisingly hot on some days. On the top, wear a T-shirt when it’s warm enough, adding a sweater on top when required. Jeans are a good choice for evenings when it’s a little cooler. 

A packable waterproof jacket, a comfortable daypack and a travel umbrella are ideal accessories for a September trip to London. 

London in September FAQs

September is the ideal time to visit London. It’s not as crowded as in summer, and the milder weather is ideal for exploring. In general, the weather is still warm, and September is among the drier months. 

Several big festivals and events take place in London during September. These include the Totally Thames Festival, which runs throughout the entire month, the London Design Festival, and Open House London. 

Will it be cold in September in London, or still hot? September in the UK capital is usually warm, as temperatures don’t tend to drop until October. Averages tend to be between 13°C (55°F) and 20°C (68°F). It’s perfect weather for exploring!

Top Things to do in London in September

If you’re wondering what to do in London in September, here are some suggestions.

• When: as per tour
• Where: various locations
• Closest tube: varies

September is the ideal time to take a walking tour of London , with mild weather and less chance of rain than some months. There are so many available all over the city, from Harry Potter-themed tours or foodie tours to those focusing on the city’s royal sites. 

Click here to check out the London Royalty Walking Tour

• When: throughout September
• Where: on and along the River Thames

Totally Thames runs from 1st September to 1st October every year. A diverse range of arts and cultural events is offered, all along a 42-mile stretch of the river. The festival includes arts events, activities, educational and environmental programmes, performances, boat trips, and more. 

• When: early to mid September
• Where: all over London

Between early and mid September, you can visit iconic buildings for free via Open House London. The festival celebrates all sorts of buildings, from churches and museums to private houses. 

• When: mid to late September
• Where: The V&A museum and across London
• Closest tube: South Kensington (for V&A)

The London Design Festival celebrates the UK capital’s design heritage. Events held all over the capital celebrate creativity during this festival, which has now been running for over two decades. 

September is one of the very best times of year to visit London. There are some appealing – and free – festivals in London in September. The weather is also warm, but not too hot, and ideal for exploring. Yet there are fewer crowds than in summer. 

In a nutshell, visiting London in September is simply perfect!

Plan your trip to London  whatever the month or season with our guides

• London in January
• London in February
• London in Spring
• London in March
• London in April
• London in May
• London in Summer
• London in June
• London in July
• London in August
• London in Fall
• London in October
• London in November
• London in December
• London in Winter

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

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The best holiday destinations in September

By Laura Fowler and Laura Chubb

The lazy, hazy days of summer are over – but September is the new January , and the perfect time for new adventures. So where are the best holiday destinations in September? See how South America is blooming: not only the jacaranda trees and their bursts of blue-violet, but the exciting high cuisine, design and arts scenes exploding everywhere from Argentina ’s always chic capital to the Peruvian Andes. Looking for a final boost of D vitamins to carry you into the last quarter? It’s the sweet shoulder season for a number of exotic, sugar-sand islands. Or discover a new beach in Europe — the mercury stays high the further you explore south or east. Better still, there are sustainable ways to enjoy even the most opulent of these getaways. Read on for inspiration on where to go on holiday in September.

Sicily, Italy

Temperature: 24°C high; 17°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: BST+1

When isn't a good time to go to Sicily ? The warm wind that blows across the Mediterranean from Africa keeps Italy 's sunniest, most richly cultured island hot well into autumn (you might still get a heatwave), though its wild and beautiful beaches are never crowded in September; yet it's cool enough for exploring the labyrinthine streets of its enchanting baroque towns. Memorable meals are to be had everywhere – September is a fine time for fruit and produce from Etna's rich national park; and there's no problem getting a room in the charming hotels.

Where to stay: At Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo , where pool views look good from all angles and a pianist (and Negronis) cajole couples to dance on the balcony against a menacing backdrop of Mount Etna. If you're looking for a city break, take over this sleek Palermo apartment that's within walking distance of all the iconic spots. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Sicily .

The Cotswolds, United Kingdom

Temperature: 19°C high; 9°C low Season: autumn Travel time from London: 2 hours 30 minutes by car Time difference: BST+0

Simply one of the loveliest places in the world, at any time of year, the Cotswolds. Its loveliness wraps itself around you like the early morning mist among the orchards; its drystone cottages and honeycomb-coloured Cotswold stone buildings, ancient and eternal, clambered all over by rambling roses and wisteria; its trickling rivers and weeping willows and wild swans; gentle landscapes and the quaintness of its beautiful villages , and all those country-house hotels for a weekend break in the UK . September brings the harvest, when the local produce is at its best, and the hunter's rich pickings are cooked magnificently in all of the best restaurants in the Cotswolds .

Where to stay: We love Thyme , an idyllic old Cotswold-stone manor with beautifully renovated barns. The Stump is a cosy roadside-inn-turned-pizza-shack just six miles from Cirencester. If you're travelling in a group, takeover No.6 , a converted barn that sleeps 10 and set on the edge of the Blenheim Palace Estate in Oxfordshire. See our favourite hotels in the Cotswolds for more recommendations.

Lisbon, Portugal

Temperature: 26°C high; 17°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: BST+0

It’s no mystery Lisbon is so popular these days. What’s not to like? Afternoons are for climbing its seven hills in search of the best miradouros – terraces with poetic views over its pastel houses and red rooftops – while evenings are best spent in Lisbon's best restaurants , where sensational seafood is fresh from the neighbouring ocean. Night-owls make a beeline for Bairro Alto. Lax open-container laws make the city’s central district a party – join and drink in the dawn. September has fabulous weather – averages of 26°C – and you’ll get the city to yourself, as the unlucky masses have gone back to school.

Where to stay: The Ivens gets our pick for one of the best new(ish) hotels in the world, while Memmo Alfama might just have the best rooftop pool in the city. For a budget stay, try The Independente , a charming hotel-meets-hostel where rooms are from £100 a night. If you'd like to stay close to the sea, this beach apartment is on Costa da Caparica, one of the best beaches in Lisbon . See more options at our edit of the best hotels in Lisbon .

Galway, Ireland

Temperature: 17°C high; 10°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 1 hour 25 minutes Time difference: BST+0

Ireland’s most scenic city is a blast any time of year, but the Galway International Oyster Festival is an excellent reason for going in September. On the last weekend of the month, the beginning of the native oyster harvest is celebrated with parades, the World Oyster Opening Championships (really) and devotees slurping hundreds of the delicacies with stout and Champagne. Sitting pretty on the River Corrib, the harbour town has always been a favourite for its waterside views, snug pubs and super-fresh seafood. But today, it’s also a standard-bearer for west-coast produce, leading the way in local, organic, farm-to-fork cooking (see Michelin-starred Loam’s seasonal tasting menus). A bit of contemporary culture comes courtesy of Coffeewerk + Press: part third-wave coffeehouse, part art gallery, part design shop. Galway’s sustainable food scene isn’t just limited to Michelin-starred affairs such as Loam. Other pioneers include Tartare Café and Wine Bar (local, farm-fresh ingredients; organic and natural wines; compostable cups and napkins), Kai (as well as serving a daily-changing menu of local ingredients, the restaurant recycles all its waste, with around 25 per cent of it converted into fuel) and Dela, which grows its own produce, allowing for a ‘plot to plate time of minutes’.

Where to stay: Wild Honey Inn in County Clare, Ireland’s first Michelin-star pub.

Santorini, Greece

Temperature: 26°C high; 20°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 4 hours Time difference: BST+2

Ask an islander what their favourite month on Santorini is, and they'll likely tell you September. The boiling, broiling summer rush is over, the sea is warmer than ever and the skies are blue, blue, all day long, and the evenings are cooler in its up-steps-and-down hillside towns. September sunsets paint the town of Oia gold, and the deep blues of the Caldera seem heightened in these days of late summer.

Where to stay: For a romantic stay, check in to Andronis Boutique Hotel , where rooms are dotted around the curves of the hotel's traditional cave-style architecture. For families, The Vasilicos is a boutique hideaway and one of the few hotels on the island that doesn't have an adults-only policy. We also love Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection , a white-washed, cliff-side dream where all the rooms have terraces and there are two pools. See our best hotels in Santorini guide for more.

Temperature: 33°C high; 19°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK : 3 hours 35 minutes Time difference: BST +0

Morocco saturates the senses. See Marrakech ’s chaotic medinas; the raggedly isolated mud-wall towns of the High Atlas; Essaouira ’s salty sea air and sun-dappled surf. All are at their finest in September. As the summer sizzle mellows, both Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts remain bikini-balmy, while the winter chill that grasps desert nights and mountain villages is yet to take hold. And a smart new crop of design hotels – typically airy riads with crisp courtyard pools, renovated by French fashion photographers and Italian aristocrats – makes Morocco an especially stylish place to lay one’s head. Fez, a vast, medieval warren of a city, has been busy restoring its ancient buildings and monuments, so there’s no end of historic houses, palaces and secret gardens, mosques and mausoleums to explore. Note: you'll see a lot of working horses and donkeys in Morocco – happily, many of them are protected by SPANA , an international organisation that works with some of the world’s poorest communities to improve the welfare of working animals, and to educate their handlers in animal rights. So if you’re offered a horse and cart ride, and the horse is wearing a SPANA tag (often around the ankle), go for it: your money validates SPANA’s efforts.

Where to stay: Within the city, La Mamounia and Royal Mansour top our list of the best hotels in Marrakech . In Taghazout , Munga Guesthouse is a 15-room boutique stay with an fairylit, indoor-outdoor restaurant. For Essaouira, the cool Riad Dar Maya is all sand-coloured plaster and modern Moroccan minimalism with a hot tub on the roof.

New York, United States

Temperature: 25°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: BST-5

New York we love you, every day of the year, but possibly in September most of all. For the weather, for the new season, and all the fresher air of autumn and possibility of a new season and that new season's styles, the way the city gears up again after sultry, away-on-Long Island August. (Yes, for that matter, Long Island is lovely end-of-season in September, too, from the Hamptons to Montauk .) Or combine New York City with an Upstate New York roadtrip to the Catskills , all that autumnal mellow mistiness and sense of nostalgia for a thing you never even had, listening to the Grateful Dead as you wind through the trees to your log cabin.

Where to stay: Try the Ace Hotel in Brooklyn or Pendry Manhattan West in Midtown, both featured on our 2022 Hot List of the best new hotels in the world. Downtown, buzzy spots like PUBLIC Hotel on the Lower East Side and Hotel 50 Bowery in Chinatown are great for nightlife and people watching. See our pick of the best hotels in New York for more.

Ibiza and Formentera, Spain

Temperature: 27°C high; 19°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST+1

Those crazy free spirits who spend the season out in Ibiza and Formentera breathe a sigh of relief when September comes. At last you can get a spot to shake out your towel on the beaches again, and a table for lunch at a beach restaurant without so much as a booking (even at Formentera's famous Juan y Andrea). It's all still hot, hot, hot, the closing parties are the clubbing highlights of the season, and hotels and villas suddenly become a lot more affordable – though you'll still have to take out a loan for drinks. Embracing the White Isle’s natural assets is the best way to make a trip here sustainable. La Granja , for example, is a chic inland farmstead that serves slow food from its own biodynamic garden, and works with the Ibiza Preservation Fund to support the island’s organic farmers. In it for the beaches? Rent a solar-powered charter yacht from La Bella Verde and explore the coast’s quieter corners.

Where to stay: OKU Ibiza , a laid-back luxury retreat with a privileged location that gives you access to the most beautiful beach spots on the island. For sunbeds and sushi, it's hard to beat the chic set up at Nobu Ibiza bay . See more options at our best hotels in Ibiza edit or check out our round-up of the best villas in Ibiza and Formentera .

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

Mexico City, Mexico

Temperature: 24°C high; 12°C low Season: wet Travel time from UK: 11 hours 25 minutes Time difference: BST -7

Massive, messy Mexico City has never been cooler. The lively capital’s young, artsy vibe is everywhere: at the colourful cafés clad in geometric-print tiles; in chic, farm-fresh brunches and craft cocktails blended with home-brewed botanicals; at the urban market in an old auto parts warehouse hawking local designers. September is the last drop of rainy season, which keeps this always-busy megalopolis short of tourists; what they don’t know is the rain tends to come at night, and in quick, sudden fits. By day, it’s 25°C and perfect for nibbling on street eats (pick your lime-doused grilled corn straight from the wheelbarrow) or exploring the city’s most fashionable 'hood: leafy, bohemian Roma Norte. (yes, of Oscar-winning film fame).

Where to stay: Octavia Casa , a seven-room retreat in La Condesa created by Fashion designer Roberta Maceda. We also love Circulo Mexicano for its calming Shaker-simple bedrooms and chilled-out rooftop with pool and Japanese soaking tub.

Corfu, Greece

Temperature: 28°C high; 17°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours 5 minutes Time difference: BST+2

The shoulder seasons – April-May, September-October – tend to be the most pleasant time to visit Greece and the Greek islands . But blue as the Ionian Sea is, it's still chilly in springtime – so we will plump for September in Corfu, when our morning swim is a warm and delicious affair, when the island's forested hills are still green for afternoon dozes beneath the oaks and olive trees.

Where to stay: At Domes Miramare , which was once the summer mansion of shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis and is now an adults-only hotel standing above its own private beach. Families should look to Grecotel Corfu Imperial , glamorous resort where many of the rooms and bungalows have private pools. See more at our best hotels in Corfu guide.

Istanbul, Turkey

Temperature: 25°C high; 17°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours 50 minutes Time difference: BST+2

Istanbul has always been a cultural giant. It straddles two continents and sits on a major branch of the Silk Road , so pretty much every marauder has left their mark here through the ages, creating a city that’s richly diverse in its art, food and mood. And every September, the Turkish capital proves its contemporary cultural chops with the art fair Contemporary Istanbul, where show-stopping installations, sculptures and canvases showcase the region’s most intriguing works. For more cutting-edge Istanbul, head to Beyoğlu, the ultimate good-times hood. When not at a gig, boutique shopping or bar-hopping, check out New Anatolian Cuisine at Mikla, where the lamb-shank dumplings with smoked buffalo yogurt might just change your life.

Where to stay: Soho House Istanbul is set in a 19th-century palace in the city's coolest district. For more options, see our pick of the best hotels in Istanbul .

Hermanus, South Africa

Temperature: 20°C high; 12°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 11 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST+2

Less than two hours’ drive from Cape Town , Hermanus has grown from fishing village to popular seaside destination for good reason: it offers the world’s best land-based whale-watching. Come in late September, when the Hermanus Whale Festival celebrates peak season for southern right whales breaching close to shore. Though the fest brings heaps of entertainment – live music, vintage car shows, street food, kids’ activities – spare some time for exploring Hermanus beyond the crowds. It’s at its very best on gorgeous cliffside walks, secluded white-sand beaches (Voëlklip is made for picnicking), or at refined countryside restaurants – The Restaurant at Newton Johnson is set on its own farm, overlooking the winery’s vines. If you're keen to spot some whales, land-based whale watching is about as un-invasive as it gets, and saves on pollution produced by boats. So, while plenty of operations offer whale-watching boat tours here, why bother when the view is so good from terra firma? Hermanus even has its own ‘whale crier’, who helpfully roams around blowing on a kelp horn to alert you to sightings.

Where to stay: Birkenhead House , a coastal hotel with a pool terrace overlooking the ocean.

Milan, Italy

Temperature: 24°C high; 16°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours Time difference: BST+1

It is a surprising fact that it rains more in Milan than in Manchester . Still, never let bad weather stand in the way of a truly splendid city break. Go in September, which has the fewest rainy days of any month in Milan, and an average daytime temperature of 24ºC. Go new-season shopping and spend too much money on some excellent boots which will keep your feet dry and make you happy in the cold, wet months ahead. Or go to Manchester , and tell everyone that it may be raining, but at least it's not as wet as Milan.

Where to stay: Try the Four Seasons Hotel Milano for a luxurious stay in the city centre or checkin to the Hotel Principe di Savoia , one of the city's grand dames. See more on our edit of the best hotels in Milan .

Barcelona, Spain

Temperature: 26°C high; 20°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 10 minutes Time difference: BST+1

It's definitely still sunshine season in September in Barcelona – temperatures average around 25ºC in the daytime, a balmy 19ºC at night. The locals are back from their holidays, but everyone's still going to the beach and eating out and partying like mad to make the most of the last days of summer. Catalonia's national holiday is on 11 September, when the city closes for parades, concerts and celebrations, and the Fiestas de la Mercè is a week-long festival, the biggest of the year, with hundreds of musicians and carnivals, performances and gigs, planned and impromptu, all over the city.

Where to stay: Design-lovers should make a beeline for The Hoxton in Pobelnou, where some rooms come with a view of the La Sagrada Familia. Another great option is Nobu Hotel Barcelona , a glitzy blend of Japanese minimalism and comfortable luxury. ME Barcelona has an unbeatable city location plus a rooftop sundeck and pool. See our guide to the best hotels in Barcelona for more.

Loire Valley, France

Temperature: 22°C high; 10°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 1 hour 20 minutes Time difference: BST+1

This UNESCO-listed river valley is the epitome of bucolic bliss. Little wonder French royalty of yore ditched Paris for its gentle pastures, scattering myriad romantic châteaux across the landscape, plopped amid sprawling manicured gardens or perched on placid lakes. As the back-to-school crowds filter out, take advantage and meander its villages and vineyards in relative peace. Plus, the first weekend of September is marked by the annual Vines, Wines and Walks festival, where visitors choose between various wine trails, led by local winemakers – so you can stroll, sip and chomp the finest cheese with the help of an expert guide.

Where to stay: Château De Marçay , a 15th-century white-stone fortress perched at the top of a vineyard-covered slope.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Temperature: 30°C high; 21°C low Season: cool Travel time from UK: 12 hours 45 minutes Time difference: BST+2

“Exotic” barely covers it. Zanzibar is another world. Its beaches are mirage-like: salt-white sand, ocean toned electric-blue. Mythical, Unesco-listed Stone Town is an ancient maze built on trade between disparate cultures: Arab, Persian, Indian, European. The scent of cloves fills the bazaars, and gothic churches mingle with domed mosques and Persian hammams. Hotels here are smarter of late; see the waterside Park Hyatt, or Zuri Zanzibar’s thatched villas. September is dry – before the ‘short rains’ of November and December – and not so stifling at around 27°C. Note: you’ll see a lot of operators offering the chance to swim with dolphins in Zanzibar – don’t do it. Tanzania is one of only a few spots in the world with no official regulations to limit the impact of tourism on its dolphin population, and bad practices abound.

Where to stay: Zuri Zanzibar for Scandi-style furnishings and ethnic murals.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Temperature: 18°C high; 11°C low Season: spring Travel time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: BST-4

They call it the Paris of South America, but Buenos Aires has long tangoed to its own beat. Nothing feels quite like wandering the tree-lined streets of its largest barrio, Palermo, past rainbow-hued street art and bohemian coffee haunts, quirky galleries and fashion boutiques. It’s more seductive still in September, when the cold winter is easing off, but still-thin crowds largely comprise fun-loving locals and expats. Life-changing steaks and chic cocktail bars beckon at every corner; new – and hard-to-get-into – speakeasy Uptown BA recreates a New York Subway station. On the bright side, low-fare long-haul airline Norwegian just launched a direct flight from Gatwick, so there should be plenty of pesos in your pocket for bribing the bouncer.

Where to stay: Faena Hotel , a decadent, belle époque stay with modern elegance.

San Francisco, United States

Temperature: 21°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: BST-8

Tourist-spotting is easy in San Francisco : just look for the people dressed for summer, teeth a-chattering. The City by the Bay is prone to chill winds and bracing fog, particularly in the summer months. September, though, is when the California dream kicks in, all clear blue skies and certified sun. Soak up those cherished rays with the tech wunderkinds in so-hot-right-now Mission district, where flamboyant sunbathers fill palm-dotted Dolores Park, and weekend brunchers order organic pop tarts in the courtyard of a converted Art Deco movie palace, Foreign Cinema . Or do as the proper locals do and head across the Golden Gate Bridge to Napa and Sonoma . The vineyards seldom look better than when soaked in autumn’s warm glow.

Where to stay: Palihotel San Francisco , a character-packed Victorian hotel near Chinatown.

French Polynesia

Temperature: 28°C high; 22°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 23 hours Time difference: BST-11

July and August are the busiest months in French Polynesia . Hold out until September and, as well as having more overwater bungalows to choose from, the weather’s still heaven. No heavy rains until November; none of the later months’ humidity to force on the air-con. Just blue, blue lagoons and the kind of peace you only find at the end of the world. Though it’s the very picture of paradise, locals call Bora Bora “boring boring”. For a quick culture dose, head out of your resort and visit the pearl farms of quiet Taha’a, or meet the blue-eyed, giant sacred river eels of lush Huahine (but maybe leave it to your guide to feed them). Try to get out of your resort and look for local tour operators offering excursions with an eco bent. Nani Travels , for example, was founded by a young Tahitian, Alexandrine Wan, and offers the likes of helping with coral-reef restoration, e-biking around Mo’orea island’s pineapple fields and monitoring shark populations.

Where to stay: The Brando , a polished hideaway on a tiny atoll with a blindingly white beach.

Utah, United States

Temperature: 26°C high; 10°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 10 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST-7

Utah ’s “Mighty Five” national parks live up to the moniker, but there’s such a thing as too much demand. Congestion at Arches and Zion is so bad now, officials are proposing reservations-only entry. Although those plans have been shelved for now, to really feel the magic of these landscapes you’ll need to escape the mob. September, after Labor Day weekend, is the sweet spot: the summer crush is gone, but temperatures are still moderate, so you can comfortably hike those incredible trails. This is American scenery at its largest: nothing but great rock cathedrals, blush-pink cliffs and rust-red canyons for miles. And with Under Canvas , you can camp right among them. Though the “Mighty Five” get all the press – and the visitors – Utah also has an impressive state parks system, with landscapes that vary from Mars-like stone forests (Goblin Valley) to bison-speckled beaches (Antelope Island). Visiting state parks takes pressure off the nationals and gives you a crowd-free experience, while also signalling to authorities that every inch of Utah’s wilderness is worth protecting.

Where to stay: At Under Canvas , which is 10 miles north of Moab, safari-style tents have en-suite bathrooms and luxe king-size beds, while mornings bring fresh coffee and cinnamon French toast.

Budapest, Hungary

Temperature: 23°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 25 minutes Time difference: BST+1

A grand and romantic city, Budapest , with a complex history and beautiful architecture. September is the driest month in the city, the days still warm. The evenings may be drawing in, but as night falls its cool neighbourhood 'ruin pubs' are lit up by fairylights and full up with a young crowd drinking cocktails outdoors in these pop-up bars set up in crumbling buildings. Ideal autumn pursuits: a wallow in its thermal baths, or sweet pastries and strudel in its wonderful cafés.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest , a decadent hotel with an infinity pool.

Temperature: 27°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours Time difference: BST+1

It might not quite be the “new Croatia ” just yet, but that’s part of the appeal — this Balkan gem has so far managed to remain largely off-radar. There’s always some hardy adventurer ready to be first, though; in the unspoiled Albanian Alps, Brooklyn native Catherine and her Albanian partner run five-room farmhouse Hotel Rilindja , a cosy oasis amid peaks and meadows, where evenings bring feasts of spit-roasted whole goat and fresh reservoir trout. Or escape to the Albanian Riviera for glorious golden sands and clear, cobalt water lapping craggy coves. In summer, the beaches are packed with fugitives from Tirana — but come September they’re back at work, while the climate stays Mediterranean and the Adriatic keeps warm. Albania is one of the poorest countries in Europe, and only small pockets of it are benefitting from tourism: namely, the Riviera, and even then, it’s mostly in the form of day trips from cruise ships. Heading into the mountains brings you up close to more traditional, rural communities and puts your money where it matters most. While independent travel can still be tricky here, Responsible Travel offers walking, cycling, food and wine and cultural itineraries that don’t just focus on the coast.

Where to stay: In Tirana, book a room at Agroturizëm Gjepali , a pre-WWII farm turned guesthouse. In Permet, meanwhile, Villa Permet is a restored 19th-century mansion.

Temperature: 26°C high; 20°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 11 hours 30 minutes Time difference: BST+8

Cherry blossoms be damned. The madding crowds are less maddening in autumn, when trees brushed scarlet and gold make Kyoto ’s sublime temples and gardens an even more precise image of perfection, while sunny skies sustain Tokyo’s bright summer mood. Dive into the urban frenzy — pinging Pachinko parlours, the rhythmic slurp of ramen bars, streets lit in video screen beam and neon – then find your Zen on sacred, misty mountaintops. Try the pilgrimage trails, remote shrines and steamy onsens of the Kii Peninsula while you can still say you were there first.

Where to stay: The Mitsui, with its dramatic lobby contrasting muted bedrooms of light green and pale birch.

Temperature: 19°C high; 15°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours 35 minutes Time difference: BST-6

September is the best time for trekking in Peru – the last gasp of dry season after the summer hordes have packed up their walking poles, with clear, sunny days obliging those breath-stealing Andean views. But the Inca Trail isn’t the only hot-ticket pilgrimage around here nowadays. In 2018, chef Virgilio Martínez, of Lima’s Central (hailed the world’s second-best restaurant as of 2022), launched what might be the planet’s most ambitious eatery. Mil restaurant overlooks the lesser-seen Inca ruins of Moray, just 30 miles from trekker gateway Cusco; the menu features only ingredients found here, a dizzying 11,500ft above sea level. The foodie odyssey continues in Peru’s increasingly buzzy capital, with plenty of charming hole-in-the-walls dishing out fresh, citrus-kissed ceviche. Better still, September water temps are best for sampling Lima ’s surf scene. Straying off the beaten track will bring more sols to the people who need them most, and one place that’s especially true is Chaparri Ecological Reserve. On Peru’s northern coast, the reserve – home to rare species including the spectacled bear and the puma – is owned and managed by the local community. However, land speculators have, in recent times, aggressively attempted encroachment on this protected territory. Visiting is the best way to give locals much-needed resources to help them keep up their good work.

Where to stay: Arennas Mancora for manicured lawns, palm trees and a whole lot of service.

Temperature: 25°C high; 15°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: BST+1

The original ultimate safari heavyweight is back in the game and is becoming the safari destination to watch. There are some fantastic new lodges opening up in Zimbabwe's exceptional and little-visited national parks, and beside the Victoria Falls. September is one of the best months to go to Zimbabwe for game-viewing, when wildlife congregates around the diminishing watering holes as the temperatures begin to rise and rain is rare, and large elephant herds can be seen in Hwange National Park. It may be high season, but the parks here never get crowded.

Where to stay: Mpala Jena – a tented safari camp on the banks of the upper Zambezi River, close to Victoria Falls – is the perfect spot to discover everything this part of Zimbabwe has to offer: the river, the falls and the wildlife.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Temperature: 26°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 2 hours 40 minutes Time difference: BST+1

Italy's glittering Amalfi Coast is a summer big-hitter for a reason. But we recommend skipping this slice of the country during high summer, and visiting in shoulder season instead – the days are still long and sunshiny, and the coastline's lovely towns and handsome hotels will be far quieter. Amalfi's best beaches will be less crowded, too; don't miss Marina Piccolais, one of the most beautiful of the lot. Spend days visiting the prettiest Amalfi Coast towns – we like seaside towns Minori and Maiori, just a mile apart from one another – or eat at some of the best restaurants not just on the Amalfi Coast , but in the whole of Italy.

Where to stay: 17th-century former monastery Monastero Santa Rosa is a glamorous hotel hovering above the shoreline. Belmond Caruso Ravello , meanwhile, dates back even further, set in an 11th-century ivy-clad building. See our guide to the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast for more ideas.

Bali, Indonesia

Temperature: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 17 hours Time difference: BST+7

It's the question we all want to know the answer to: when is the best time to visit Bali? Rainy season is from October to March, while the dry season runs from April to September. Aiming for the outer edges of the dry season is your best bet – making September the perfect time to visit. Get under the skin of secret Bali at slow-pace villages, or visit some of the best beaches in Bali for a last gasp of sunshine before British winter kicks in closer to home.

Where to stay: The best Bali hotels include Bill Bensley's Capella Ubud , a luxe tented camp, and Lost Lindenberg , a whipsmart fresh arrival.

Best Places To Visit In The UK In September

1 september 2021.

The UK is renowned the world over to be one of the most beautiful countries to visit and explore. From the far Northern points of Scotland, down to Lands End and the beautiful Islands surrounding the main land, we have dramatic and stunning scenery that changes throughout the seasons.

Yes, we do have a reputation for wet and windy weather, which can be very frustrating. However, the times to go exploring the nations that make up the UK are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September through to Mid November).

At these times of the year the weather is generally dry and mild, which is perfect for exploring, driving, walking and taking in the stunning scenery and changing colours.

While it’s difficult to say with absolute certainty what the best places to visit in the UK actually are ( it’s very subjective, and we are spoiled for choice ), we are going to look at a small selection to get you out and about and thinking where you could explore next.

So, join Jones Executive Coaches on a trip around the UK and some stunning places to visit.

5 Best Places To Visit In The UK In September

1). scotland-isle of mull.

Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull is a gem hidden from the rest of the UK. Its white sand and sheltered bay make it feel more like a tropical paradise than a Scottish island. It’s an ideal place for a walk, or a swim in its clear blue waters. Camping is allowed for tents and small RV’s at the southern end of the bay with toilet facilities, so it’s a magical place to stop for a few days.

2). Northern England – Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s wall stretches some 73 miles across Northern England from coast to coast not far from the geographical  border between England and Scotland.

It was built on the instructions of the Roman Emperor, Hadrian, to protect the North Western border of the empire (the province of Britannia) from the attacks of the “Barbarians”

Today it is a UNESCO Heritage site and a great place to visit with plenty of walks, villages, forts and an interactive museum.

Find out more at https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/hadrians-wall/

3). Southern England – St Michael’s Mount – Cornwall

St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island in Mount’s Bay, Cornwall. The island is a civil parish and is linked to the town of Marazion by a man-made causeway of granite setts, passable between mid-tide and low water.

The island is a place of medieval history and mystery, and folklore says it was built by a giant who would step across the causeway and steel sheep and cows from the coast of Marazion.

The island is an important place for spiritual seekers, who believe its unique energy is due to age-old ley lines which course under the sea.

Visit the medieval castle and church. The island can be reached by walking across the causeway at low tide. However, if you lose track of time you will either be stranded on the island until the tide goes out again, or book a boat to get you back.

4). Wales – Sgwd Yr Eira – Brecon Beacons

Sgwd Yr Eira is a stunning set of waterfalls in the Mellte Valley within the Brecon Beacons. The name itself (loosely pronounced in English as “Scood err Ayra”) literally means Fall of Snow. 

As you walk behind the waterfall on the path carved out over thousands of years by sheep farmers, it looks and feels like a gentle snow fall.

It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty and within the Brecon Beacons National Park, so an ideal place for hikers and all types of outdoor pursuits.

5). The Dark Hedges – County Antrim – Northern Ireland

As with the rest of the UK, we were spoilt for choice in Northern Island. However, The Dark Hedges have become one of the most iconic and most photographed natural phenomenon in Northern Ireland.

In fact, fans of HBO’s “Game of Thrones” may recognise this as “The Kings Rd”, and has been used as a film location many times.

You can find out more at www.discovernorthernireland.com/gameofthrones

The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees, and can be discovered along Bregagh Road between Armoy and Stranocum in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Magnificent United Kingdom.

Of course, this is only a tiny representation of the different areas available to explore in the UK.

At Jones Executive Coaches, we have over 50 years experience in coach travel, sightseeing, business travel, and group travel.

If you or your organisation require coach travel or advice, please speak to one of our friendly experts, or see our Coach Hire page to discover more.

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Best places to visit in september 2024.

With fall just settling in and the hassles associated with summer travel dwindling, September is the perfect time for a getaway. By now, most tourists will have made their way out of popular destinations, and airfare and hotel rates will start to slide. U.S. News took into account these factors and more, including expert analysis and traveler sentiment, to come up with the best places to visit in September. Whether you're an adventure traveler looking for that next great trail to hike or an urbanite looking for a new city to buzz about, we've got a destination for you. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to have a say in next year's list.

Sequoia National Park

Gros morne national park, honolulu - oahu, whitsunday islands, mount rainier national park, guilin and lijiang river national park, grand canyon national park, fiordland national park, the berkshires.

Moab, Utah, is a good choice for travelers seeking adventure and unparalleled natural beauty on their next vacation. Arches National Park sits a mere 5 miles north of town, making Moab a great home base for activities like hiking, horseback riding and canyoneering. Or, crank up the tunes on a scenic drive through the park. September is warm in the 70s and 80s, which makes other outdoor pursuits like rafting, biking and stargazing ideal.

With average temperatures sitting in the 70s and 80s in September, the Greek island of Santorini entices travelers with favorable weather, sunny skies and warm waters, perfect for swimming at some of Greece's top shorelines like Red Beach and Kamari Beach. After sipping vino at one of the region's top-notch wineries, dine alfresco along Amoudi Bay or take in the island's stunning natural beauty on the roughly 6-mile hike from Fira to Oia. Plan your vacation for mid-September to catch the Ifestia Festival, an annual event paying respect to the island's volcanic history through live music and a fireworks display.

September is the sweet spot for visiting Sequoia National Park – summer crowds thin as kids go back to school and temperatures remain comfortable in the high 60s, but roads and services have not yet closed for the winter season. This makes popular activities like hiking through the Giant Forest and driving the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway even more enjoyable. Arrive on the fourth Saturday of September to take advantage of National Public Lands Day, one of the National Park Service's free admission days.

Adventurous travelers will be enamored with Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the Canadian island of Newfoundland. Not only can visitors sail past a glacier-carved fjord on a boat tour of Western Brook Pond, but they'll have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk upon the Earth's exposed mantle in the Tablelands. While summer is a popular time to travel to Gros Morne, a September visit brings added benefits like vibrant fall colors, crowd-free trails and active wildlife.  

Oahu is Hawai'i's most-visited island and Waikiki is one of America's most popular beaches , so if you want ample room to spread out on its famous shores, visiting during the fall shoulder season is your best bet. In September, the island sees fewer tourists but still offers hot, dry weather and warm water ideal for swimming and surfing. The discounted rates in September will also make your vacation that much more relaxing, and you'll be able to experience one of Hawai'i's biggest cultural events, the Aloha Festivals.

Situated off the coast of Queensland, Australia, this chain of 74 islands are loved for their postcard-worthy beaches and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. Base your stay on popular Hamilton Island, which features an array of adults-only resorts, or camp under the stars on Whitsunday Island, home to the popular Whitehaven Beach. Must-do activities in the Whitsundays include lounging on the sand, snorkeling, scuba diving and sailing. Luckily, travelers who visit in September will be treated to low humidity and consistently sunny skies with average temperatures resting between the high 70s and low 80s.

Although September technically falls within this Washington park's shoulder season, travelers will still find plenty to love about an autumn visit to Mount Rainier National Park. Depending on your elevation, average temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the low 70s in September, and the region's beautiful fall colors make it a perfect time for leaf peeping . Take advantage of the pleasant conditions by hiking the popular Skyline Trail or admiring the stunning views of Mount Rainier from Sunrise, the highest point of the park that can be reached by car.

One of the world's most impressive national parks , Guilin and Lijiang River National Park in southern China is downright magical in September. The weather is cool and dry, making it easy to enjoy the park's mist-covered karst mountains and rice terraces, along with other highlights like the Reed Flute Cave and Elephant Trunk Hill. And while you'll surely want to explore on foot, a guided boat cruise down the Li River is no doubt the best way to soak up Guilin's stunning scenery.

Visiting Arizona's Grand Canyon during its peak summer season can be risky (high daytime desert temperatures and steep hikes don't mix well). September not only offers a slightly cooler climate but fewer crowds to contend with now that the kids will be back in school. The park's South Rim, which is usually bustling with tourists in summer, sees fewer visitors come September, making it a great time for hiking traveler-approved paths like the Rim Trail. What's more, destinations like the highly underrated North Rim are still open throughout the month.

The capital of Wales is a beautiful destination year-round, but September's mild temperatures (think: highs sit in the mid-60s) and colorful fall foliage make this an ideal time to plan a trip. Foodies will love dining on delicious Welsh cuisine at annual events like the Amgueddfa Cymru Food Festival, held at the open-air St Fagans National Museum of History, and the Abergavenny Food Festival, which is hosted by the nearby town of Abergavenny. When you're not enjoying Cardiff's culinary specialties, spend your time exploring Roath Park or taking a guided tour of the historic Cardiff Castle.

Located on New Zealand's South Island, Fiordland National Park draws travelers with its stunning yet dramatic landscapes . While the weather in the park can be unpredictable in September (a spring month in the Southern Hemisphere), Fiordland typically sees daytime temperatures that hover in the 50s. These cool but comfortable days are when Fiordland's marine life, including penguins, fur seals and dolphins, tend to be most active, so be on the lookout while cruising or kayaking through jaw-dropping Milford Sound. Also save time for hiking one of the park's three Fiordland Great Walks trails.

The capital of South Korea is especially lovely come September. Temperatures are warm in the high 70s, and hotel and airfare prices have begun to drop after the busy summer season. Plus, with smaller crowds, it will be easier to enjoy top destinations like Bukchon Hanok Village and Bukhansan National Park. Travelers who plan their getaway for the end of the month can also experience Chuseok, a three-day harvest festival known as Korean Thanksgiving.

September is one of the best times to travel to this northern Morocco city, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture. Not only will you avoid summer's sweltering heat, but visiting in the offseason means you won't have to worry about rubbing elbows with hordes of other tourists. Spend your visit strolling through the magnificent Medina of Fez, a must-visit UNESCO World Heritage Site, and remember to set aside time for a peaceful walk through the Jardin Jnan Sbil public gardens.  

This mountainous area of western Massachusetts offers a mix of outdoor activities and must-see cultural attractions. September brings crisp fall weather to the Berkshires (think: average temperatures in the high 60s) that is perfect for touring the grounds of the region's museums and historical sites. Plus, the pleasant temps make it possible to comfortably hike Mount Greylock or Monument Mountain's trails, which offer an up-close look at the beautiful fall foliage that starts appearing in September. A fall getaway also brings fun seasonal events like the Housatonic Heritage Walks and the Lenox Apple Squeeze.

Occupying about 90 miles of the California coast, Big Sur draws travelers with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque beaches. Visit in September to take advantage of the warm, dry weather lingering from summer without dealing with the peak season's crowds. Must-do activities here include hiking through state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns and Andrew Molera, snapping pics of Pfeiffer Beach's impressive rock formations and surfing at Sand Dollar Beach. September is also an ideal time for whale watching, so keep an eye out for migrating blue and humpback whales.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Pigeon Forge

Scottish Highlands

Glacier National Park

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Best U.S. National Parks for 2024

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The best places to visit in September

From french riverboats to portuguese beach breaks, here are the best holiday deals, article bookmarked.

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As some of Europe ’s most popular destinations remain on the amber list, September is an excellent time to catch some of the seasonal warmth that has proved elusive this British summer. But if you want to stay closer to home, there are some brilliant last-minute options in the UK, too.

Cruise along the River Charente at your own pace when you rent a boat from Nicols (boat-renting-nicols.co.uk). Starting close to the Nicols base in Sireuil, you’ll slowly cruise past the vineyards, historic towns and villages of this serene part of western France . Stop in Cognac for a tasting, and pick up bottles of Pineau des Charente along the way. A seven-night rental from 20 September costs €972, down from €1,143, on a Riviera 920. The boat technically sleeps eight, but it’s more comfortable for two couples. Boat insurance and all equipment are included, but fuel is extra.

September is a superb time to visit Greece ’s Ionian islands, specifically tiny, laid-back Paxos. Have a leisurely drive along the island’s east coast and you’ll find one beautiful beach after another. Or take a boat trip that allows you to swim in inaccessible coves, before heading over to neighbouring Antipaxos. GIC the Villa Collection (gicthevillacollection.com) has availability in Loggos Mills, a cluster of four cottages and studios sleeping between two and four, with a shared swimming pool and sea views. A week’s self-catering costs from £839pp, down from £1,195. The price includes flights, transfers and car hire, departing 20 September.

You’ll have glorious Atlantic sunsets and the Portuguese border practically on your doorstep when you stay at Villa Rosal near the Galician town of Oia. The four-bedroom villa looks right over a rocky beach below, just beyond the swimming pool. There’s a games room, as well as a barbecue and a large sun terrace. Available through Vintage Travel (vintagetravel.co.uk) for seven nights from 13 September, the villa sleeps eight and costs £798 for four people or £898 for five or more guests.

See out the summer overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from the Algarve fishing village of Alvor. Wandering along its long sandy beach, you’ll marvel at the towering rock formations of Tres Imaos at the easternmost end of the beach. Mercury Holidays (mercuryholidays.co.uk) has a week’s B&B at the Pestana Alvor Praia Beach and Golf Hotel, which has fabulous views of Alvor Beach, from £534pp. The price includes flights, departing 20 September.

Get a taste of Devon country life when you stay at Little Gate Cottage, a pretty 17 th -century thatched cottage in North Bovey. When you’re not cosying up in front of the inglenook fireplace in the beamed sitting room, you can follow the footpath to the Dartmoor Way and along the River Bovey. Booked through Helpful Holidays (helpfulholidays.co.uk), the two-bedroom cottage is available from 24 September for seven nights for £675, down from £720.

Herefordshire

It won’t be long before you slip into a mellow autumnal mood at 2 The Oaks, a 19 th -century sandstone cottage in Hoarwithy in the Herefordshire countryside. The two-bedroom, semi-detached cottage is attractively done up in classic country style, complete with woodburner and flagstone kitchen floors. When you’re not strolling along the nearby River Wye or checking out Herefordshire’s cider trails, you can pop into the nearby towns of Ross-on-Wye or Hereford. Available through Rural Retreats (ruralretreats.co.uk), the cottage costs £755 for four nights’ self-catering from 25 September, which includes a welcome hamper.

Mary Novakovich is editor at large at 101holidays.co.uk .

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Best places to travel in September 2024 & 2025

Whether falling in autumn or spring, September can showcase countries at their most scenic, from the green, lamb-dotted valleys of New Zealand to the wildflower-coated countryside of Argentina.

In Canada, the salmon run sees bears gather for a feeding frenzy along British Columbia’s rivers. Bhutan’s clear skies are ideal for hiking among its mountains, while similar conditions in Bolivia make for excellent photography around its salt pans. Spain and Turkey are pleasantly warm without the crowds of summer. And, in South Africa, you can combine regions while they’re at their best. It’s also an excellent time for seeing Namibia’s wildlife and stargazing among its desert dunes.

Festivals and events around the world in September

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1. New Zealand

As spring arrives in New Zealand, temperatures start to rise and the country begins to thaw. Snowmelt feeds waterfalls and rivers, making for excellent white-water rafting. The valleys are at their greenest, with wildflowers starting to bloom and newborn lambs skipping in the fields.

As with any time of year in New Zealand, rain is possible, but you’ll find September is far quieter than the summer months and you’ll have your pick of the best places to stay. Off the coast, you can take boat trips to spot orcas, while warmer temperatures on the North Island are ideal for following walking tracks through national parks while there are fewer visitors.

• Don't miss: Highlights of New Zealand (non-driving)
• Flight time: 26 hours via LA or 25 hours via Hong Kong
• Time difference: UTC +12
• September Temperature (Day): 10 to 17°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 33 to 484mm, varies by region
• Explore New Zealand
• New Zealand tours
• New Zealand travel guides

2. South Africa

You can visit South Africa at any time of year. But, with most regions at their prime in September, you can plan a varied trip that gives you the best of all worlds.

In the northern regions, including the Kruger, cooler, drier conditions make for excellent game viewing. Animals are active and easier to see as they gather around vital water sources, with many also giving birth to their young. On the west coast, wildflowers cover the otherwise dry and dusty landscape. And, you’ll have the best chance of seeing southern right whales, which migrate from Antarctica to the warm waters off South Africa to have their young.

• Don't miss: Discover South Africa
• Flight time: 11 hours (Johannesburg)
• Time difference: UTC +2
• September Temperature (Day): 17 to 27°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 16 to 95mm, varies by region
• Explore South Africa
• South Africa tours
• South Africa travel guides

It’s still warm enough to enjoy a mix of outdoor activities among Canada’s mountains, lakes and coastal scenery in September, plus you have the added bonus of fewer crowds than summer. The landscape is gradually turning from green to golden, making hiking and driving through the Rockies particularly rewarding.

What’s more, September falls at the peak of the salmon run, which attracts large groups of bears to British Columbia’s rivers and streams. Stay at a bear-watching lodge to make the most of this natural event, heading out each day with expert guides who’ll know the best spots for seeing the action.

• Don't miss: Bears of British Columbia
• Flight time: Between 5½ and 11 hours
• Time difference: UTC -3:30 to UTC -8
• September Temperature (Day): -5 to 23°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 11 to 236mm, varies by region
• Explore Canada
• Canada tours
• Canada travel guides

Warm but not scorching or humid, dry and with clear skies ideal for stargazing among the desert dunes, September is an excellent time to visit Namibia. Having endured most of the dry season by now, animals big and small will be congregated around the vital water sources in Etosha National Park, making them easier to spot. You can drive yourself around the park for flexibility, or join guided game drives for extra insight.

Elsewhere, you could enjoy dune activities like sandboarding and quad-biking in the Namib Desert, kayak with seals off Swakopmund’s coast or head north to see desert-adapted elephant in Damaraland.

• Don't miss: Classic Namibia self-drive safari
• Flight time: 12½ hours (Windhoek, via Frankfurt or Johannesburg)
• September Temperature (Day): 17 to 29°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 0 to 3mm, varies by region
• Explore Namibia
• Namibia tours
• Namibia travel guides

5. Argentina

Wildflowers, rising temperatures and active wildlife herald the beginning of spring in Argentina. September sees fewer visitors than later months, and if you don’t mind slightly cooler temperatures, you’ll find plenty to see and do and a wide choice of places to stay.

In Buenos Aires, jacaranda trees start to bloom and many sights will be crowd-free. You could also head to slower-paced Mendoza for some wine tasting — the region’s particularly known for its Malbec. Elsewhere, you can see southern right whales off the Península Valdés, as well as a large number of Magellan penguins along the shoreline.

• Don't miss:
• Flight time: 15¼ hours (Buenos Aires)
• Time difference: UTC -3
• September Temperature (Day): 8 to 21°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 10 to 84mm, varies by region
• Explore Argentina
• Argentina tours
• Argentina travel guides

As temperatures ease from hot to pleasantly warm, September showcases Turkey at its best. It’s still balmy enough for the beach and for swimming in the sea, the cities are quieter than in summer months, and conditions are more comfortable for sightseeing, whether in Istanbul or a further-flung region. You’ll also have a wider choice of hotels, some offering great value, particularly along the Turquoise Coast.

With attractions remaining open until mid-October, you won’t be missing out on anything compared to the busier summer months, whether you want to tour ancient sites, sample the country’s cuisine, or take in the landscapes and unique culture of Cappadocia.

• Don't miss: Istanbul, Cappadocia & the Turquoise Coast
• Flight time: 3¾ hours (Istanbul)
• Time difference: UTC +3
• September Temperature (Day): 23 to 30°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 11 to 85mm, varies by region
• Explore Turkey
• Turkey tours
• Turkey travel guides

Dry, sunny, and cool, September is an excellent month to visit Bolivia if you want to spend time in the great outdoors. It’s a rewarding time to go hiking in the country’s highland areas and for photographing the dazzling salt flats and Lake Titicaca contrasted against deep-blue skies. It’s also one of the best times to see the lakes of the high Altiplano transformed by the pink plumage of thousands of flamingos.

While the beginning of September can be fairly busy, visitor numbers dwindle as the month progresses, leaving you with a wide choice of hotel options and the chance to see Bolivia’s best-known sights without the crowds.

• Don't miss: Grand tour of Bolivia
• Flight time: 16 hours (via Madrid or the USA)
• Time difference: UTC -4
• September Temperature (Day): 15 to 30°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 24 to 43mm, varies by region
• Explore Bolivia
• Bolivia tours
• Bolivia travel guides

As monsoon season ends, Bhutan’s skies clear to reveal striking views of its mountains and valleys. While rain might linger at the beginning of the month, the worst will have passed, and the pleasantly warm temperatures are ideal for hiking. While this means that more visitors flock to the country in the latter half of September, Bhutan’s rigid restrictions on tourist numbers means it never gets too busy.

We can arrange for an experienced local guide to lead you along lesser-known trails and provide insight as you visit the country’s monasteries and dzongs. September also sees a few festivals take place in Bhutan, including Thimphu Tshechu, a three-day religious festival in the capital.

• Don't miss: Bhutan's highlights: Thimphu, Punakha & Paro
• Flight time: 12 hours (via Delhi, Calcutta or Kathmandu)
• Time difference: UTC +6
• September Temperature (Day): 25 to 25°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 243 to 243mm, varies by region
• Explore Bhutan
• Bhutan tours
• Bhutan travel guides

Still retaining heat after its hot summer, Spain in September is pleasantly warm, mostly dry and sees fewer visitors. The air turns crisp at night, while days see clear, deep-blue skies without haze. It’s still warm enough to swim in the sea, and temperatures are more comfortable for hiking and city sightseeing, soaking up authentic Spanish life as the pace slows.

You’ll also have a chance to experience the wine harvest, perhaps timing your visit for the Fiestas de San Mateo — a week of parades and performances in La Rioja to celebrate the Feast of Saint Matthew and the grape harvest.

• Don't miss: Madrid, San Sebastián & La Rioja tour
• Flight time: 2 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (London to Madrid)
• Time difference: UTC +1
• September Temperature (Day): 23 to 29°C, depending on region
• September rainfall: 5 to 97mm, varies by region
• Explore Spain
• Spain tours
• Spain travel guides

More ideas by month

• Travel recommendations The world is a big place – not sure where to go? Get recommendations on destinations, the best times to go there, and what to do.
• Travel in the UK How much have you really travelled within the UK? There are so many local hidden gems waiting to be discovered – be inspired here.
• The taste of travel For some, the best way to experience a place is through its food. See the best places to go for dining and local dishes around the world.
• Tips & tricks Hack your way to the most amazing trips ever with tips on everything from how to pack your carry-on to how to eat dumplings.
• Travel experiences What’s your favourite thing to do when you’re travelling? Find the best things to see and do based on your interests or type of travel.
• News Read the latest news about the travel industry, our products and services, and what’s happening at KAYAK.

The 13 best places to visit September

There are so many wonderful destinations to go on holiday in September. With the summer season coming to an end in the Northern Hemisphere, you can visit great places at reduced prices. Alternatively, the Southern Hemisphere summer is just getting started, so you can get in before the peak season.

Soak up local history, taste traditional food and indulge in culture on a great holiday this autumn. And the best part? Late summer tends to be a quieter period to visit most of these countries, with kids back at school and the high season over. Here we take a look at some best places to visit in September 2023 .

• Palma de Mallorca, Mallorca
• Bordeaux, France
• Bled, Slovenia
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Belfast, Northern Ireland
• Amalfi Coast, Italy
• Montreal, Canada
• San Francisco, USA
• Mexico City, Mexico
• Santiago, Chile
• Istanbul, Turkey

Best places to visit in September in Europe

1. palma de mallorca, mallorca.

• Flight time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Learn more: Palma de Mallorca travel guide

One of the best places for a September holiday in 2023 is Palma de Mallorca in the Balearic Islands. With an average of just one day of rainfall throughout the entire month, you’ll be able to enjoy cracking weather that isn’t quite as hot or uncomfortable as July and August. What’s more, there should be slightly fewer tourists to compete with at the island’s top attractions .

Spend your mornings exploring the Old Town of Palma, stopping off at quaint cafes and restaurants to shelter from the sun. Then head over to the magnificent cathedral La Seu, which has stood since the 14th century. In the afternoons, take in the spectacular coastline on a walk to Es Molinar: a former fishing neighbourhood in Palma that has kept much of its rustic charm. Here you can enjoy some rest and relaxation on the intimate beach or hop between the upmarket seafront bars.

2. Bordeaux, France

• Flight time: 1 hour 40 minutes
• Learn more: Bordeaux travel guide

Bordeaux is one of the best places to visit in September if you’re a major foodie thanks to its surrounding world-class wineries. This month is also when the city plays host to an array of entertaining events. Fancy a party atmosphere? Check out Festival Cadences d’Arcachon, which is an annual dance event including a range of music genres. Le Weekend des Grands Crus also takes place every September and offers wine lovers the chance to taste over 110 types of wine.

The city itself is an architectural achievement which will reward you at every turn you make. Go on a self-guided walking tour of the city and check out popular attractions like the UNESCO World Heritage site of Place de la Bourse. Alternatively, visit La Cathedrale de Saint Andre, which dates back to the 14th century, for an example of spectacular Gothic architecture.

Want to escape the heat during September? Look no further than the Jardin Public: a beautifully serene part of the city offering plenty of shade.

Flights to Bordeaux

3. Bled, Slovenia

• Learn more: Bled travel guide

If you’re looking for a brand-new European destination to tick off your bucket list , consider Slovenia. It’s easily one of the best places to go on holiday in September thanks to its pleasant weather and small crowds. The resort town of Bled is a brilliant spot to base yourself for a getaway – especially if you’re craving an exciting outdoor adventure.

Bled sits in the shadow of the Julian Alps, which is crisscrossed with scenic hiking trails, and right on the shores of Lake Bled. One of the most well-known bodies of water in Slovenia, it’s still a hub for swimming, boating and water sports during September. Those after a little history and culture should make the journey up to Bled Castle. The 11th-century structure sits on a cliff overlooking the lake and is packed with fascinating exhibits on the area’s past.

A highlight of any September holiday to Bled is visiting the island in the very centre of the lake. It’s home to the picture-perfect Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary which features a famous bell tower with an intriguing local legend attached to it.

Flights to Slovenia

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Flight time: 2 hours 40 minutes
• Learn more: Dubrovnik travel guide

If you’re after a mix of sunshine and sightseeing for your September holiday in 2023, Dubrovnik should be on your list. Not only will the crowds have reduced a bit compared to the peak months of July and August , but you’ll get great weather to boot.

With prime conditions to explore the city, a great place to start is the Walls of Dubrovnik. Walking the walls can take in the region of two hours in busier months, but you should be able to do it faster with fewer people around. You’ll also be rewarded with some spectacular views over the Adriatic Sea.

For those who want to soak up an annual festival, look no further than the Dubrovnik International Late Summer Music Festival. Running through most of September, it’s a great time to experience the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra live in action.

Flights to Dubrovnik

5. Belfast, Northern Ireland

• Flight time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Learn more: Belfast travel guide

Belfast is really making a name for itself as a top holiday destination in Northern Ireland. In September, you’ll still be clinging to the Great British summer, so the weather shouldn’t be a problem. Plus, with a range of great attractions to visit such as the Titanic Belfast Museum and Peace Wall, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the main reasons to visit Belfast during September is to head up the Causeway Coast, without crowds, and enjoy what is arguably one of the most scenic driving routes in this part of the world. It takes just over 30 minutes to reach the coast by car, and it will reward you with a stunningly rugged coastline.

Flights to Belfast

6. Amalfi Coast, Italy

• Flight time: 2 hours 45 minutes
• Learn more: Amalfi travel guide

It would be hard to talk about where to go on holiday in September and not mention somewhere in Italy. The Amalfi Coast is beautiful throughout the year, with each season having its own enchantment. However, if you visit in September, you’ll get to enjoy fewer crowds and less intense temperatures. Fear not though: the water is still perfect if you fancy a late summer dip!

Whether you want to take in the region’s remarkable coastline via an Italian road trip , check out picture-perfect towns such as Sorrento or take the opportunity to enjoy Italian cuisine, there’s something for everyone. Another great activity for when you’re on the Amalfi Coast is taking a cruise along the shore, so you can see its colourful houses, rugged coastline and beautiful beaches from another perspective.

Flights to Amalfi Coast

North American Holiday Destinations in September

7. montreal, canada.

• Flight time: 7 hours 20 minutes
• Learn more: Montreal travel guide

One of the best places to visit in September outside of Europe is Montreal as it still has that summer feeling but with far fewer tourists. It’s also beneficial for your wallet, too, as hotel costs start to decrease after the peak season.

With fewer people visiting the tourist attractions, you can roam the roads of the city, absorbing the 18th-century architecture in Vieux-Montreal as you go. Next, stop off at a quaint coffee shop and watch the world go by. Then make the most of the warm weather and relax at Parc du Mont-Royal, which is a beautifully landscaped garden.

With the sun setting at around 18:30 in Montreal during September, the evening is a perfect time to head up to the Montreal Observation Wheel to get a great photo of the panoramic vistas.

Flights to Montreal

8. San Francisco, USA

• Flight time: 11 hours
• Learn more: San Francisco travel guide

San Francisco tends to offer clear blue skies and consistent sun in the month of September, making it a great time to visit. Make sure you take a spare item of clothing out with you, though, as the Bay Area can get extremely windy and catch many tourists off guard.

Wind aside, there’s plenty to enjoy in September in this great city. With Labor Day taking place on the first Monday of September, you’ll get the chance to enjoy a range of activities such as festivals, concerts and tours.

If you want to dust off your trainers and get a workout, then why not compete in the annual Bridge To Bridge run which typically takes place at the end of the month? You can choose a 5K or a 12K option, with there being a great after-party at the Marina Green. Here you can enjoy music, beers, food and great company.

Flights to San Francisco

Where to Go on Holiday in September in Central America

9. mexico city, mexico.

• Flight time: 11 hours 25 minutes
• Learn more: Mexico City travel guide

A young, lively and artsy city, Mexico City will surprise you if you’ve not been before. September is a great time to visit as the rainy season is just finishing and tourists are yet to flock back. That being said, you’re unlikely to experience much rain during the day anyway, as it normally rains at night.

Not far from Mexico City, you’ll find Tepoztlan, which hosts the annual Reto al Tepozteco festival in September. Celebrating a fusion of Spanish and indigenous culture, you’ll get to experience authentic Mexican food, traditional dancing and a great firework display.

Flights to Mexico City

Best Places to Visit in September in South America

10. santiago, chile.

• Flight time: 14 hours 35 minutes
• Learn more: Santiago travel guide

Patagonia may be the number one reason to venture to Chile, but the country’s impressive capital city is also well worth a visit. It’s conveniently one of the best places to visit in September in the South America region, too, thanks to mild yet sunny weather and cheaper flights.

The Chilean capital is a fantastic spot to soak up some local culture and cuisine, especially in September when it plays host to several festivals and events. Look out for colourful flags, fragrant food stalls and lively street parties across the city during Fiestas Patrias: a national holiday celebrating the country’s independence which takes place on the 18th and 19th of September.

Flights to Santiago

Best Holiday Destinations in September in Africa

11. zimbabwe.

• Flight time: 14+ hours (via Nairobi or Amsterdam)
• Learn more: Zimbabwe travel guide

If it’s a safari you’re after, then Zimbabwe is a no-brainer. With a range of sublime safari lodges to stay in, national parks to visit and friendly locals to welcome you, this has to be one of the best places to visit in September. Add to that the famous Victoria Falls and you’ll be all set for a memorable trip.

Visiting Zimbabwe for a September holiday is perfect for viewing game as the wildlife tends to congregate at watering holes due to the lack of rain. One of the most convenient things about Zimbabwe in September is, even though this is peak season, it’s still not as popular as it should be, so crowds tend to be small.

Flights to Zimbabwe

Best Places to Go on Holiday in September in Asia

12. singapore.

• Flight time: 13 hours
• Learn more: Singapore travel guide

Always wanted to visit Asia’s most space-age city? Make it your September holiday destination in 2023. The modern metropolis sits on the southern edge of the Malay Peninsula and is a great spot for an action-packed city break or a mini breather before tackling the rest of South East Asia.

September is a good time to plan a trip as it’s the very end of the Southwest monsoon season, so there’s little chance of rain and plenty of sunshine. Strolling around the Marina Bay Gardens, with its magnificent supertrees and giant glasshouses, is a must-do. You could also journey up to the SkyPark Observation Deck at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel for epic vistas of the entire city. Feeling peckish? Don’t skip dining at one of the city’s hawker markets where you’ll be greeted with cheap, tasty bites and an authentic local vibe.

Flights to Singapore

13. Istanbul, Turkey

• Flight time: 3 hours 40 minutes
• Learn more: Istanbul travel guide

Listed under Asia in our list but also part of Europe, Istanbul is a must-visit city for everyone. September makes for a great time to head to this fascinating city, especially as the Contemporary Istanbul art fair takes place towards the end of the month. Boasting great art installations, sculptures and canvases, you can spend hours viewing the region’s most valued works.

Whether you want to walk around the medieval streets, take in authentic Turkish cuisine or head to popular tourist attractions like Hagia Sophia Mosque, there’s something for everyone. A great experience for children and adults alike is to take a boat tour along the Bosphorus strait which separates Istanbul’s Europe and Asian sides.

Flights to Istanbul

Feeling inspired to take a trip this September? Why not check out our other travel guides, including tips on the:

• Best places to visit in October
• Best places to visit in Italy

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• Sun holidays

Sunny destinations in september

September is synonymous with back to school ... Or of a new adventure! What could possibly be more exciting than going on a vacation when everyone else is going back to work? The weather is still very pleasant, temperatures are mild and prices are so affordable that they makes it difficult to resist the temptation of making Summer last longer. Moreover, once the summer crowds have left the beaches, they return to their original beauty and authenticity.

A big blue sky over the archaeological sites, dunes, oases and Medinas.

Useful information

Antique sites, generous cuisine and Aegean beaches... In September, Turkey will awaken all your senses.

Bathed in sunshine, culture and citrus scents, Sicily is a destination you just can’t say no to.

Between tropical forests, baobabs, lemurs, white sand and lagoons, you will have everything you need to relax before Autumn.

Come and marvel at its subtropical climate, lush gardens, breathtaking views and sublime beaches

French Riviera

Far from being just limited to its chic Riviera, the Côte d’Azur maintains its glamour and easy living style with panache.

From antique sites to paradise islands, the unbelievable beauty of the Mediterranean will dazzle all your senses in September.

From coral reefs to turquoise lagoons, the sea is everywhere. You just have to let yourself slip into the scenery.

Geological wonders, clear sea and secret coves form the outline of this Mediterranean dream.

Historical cities, paradise islands and the warm water of the Adriatic are all gathered together under the Croatian sun of September.

Historical gems, a festive atmosphere and the fine sand of the black sea will all broaden your seaside horizons

Spanish coasts

If you’re looking for some sunshine therapy, head to the Spanish coasts with their culture, 'joie de vivre' and cosmopolitan nightlife. Vamonos !

Let yourself be enchanted by the sunny serenity of Bali, the magnetic and well-named “Island of the Gods”.

Oases, desert, endless beaches and the Atlas valleys will make your heart rate quicken in the land of the setting sun.

Canary Islands

Surrounded by the ocean, shaped by the winds and caressed by the September sun, the Canary Islands are a miracle of diversity.

The endless expanses of sand, fishing villages, mild nights and Fado music create the sweet scent of a perfect holiday.

Languedoc Roussillon (France)

The fragrant garrigue, southern fragrants, sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage will revive your taste for summer strolls

Balearic Islands

This archipelago full of Mediterranean charm will melt your heart rather than your skin.

This is where your dreams of wild horizons lie and where your best travel memories will be born.

This island, blessed by the Greek God of sun and beauty, is the essence of the Mediterranean.

This Mediterranean island of light and mystery will delight you right after Summer.

Reunion Island

Trekking enthusiasts, insatiable adventurers and relaxation lovers, we've found your dream destination!

Under the September sun, the golden beaches and ancient wonders shine even brighter.

You may feel like you already know this archipelago since you’ve already dreamt of its clear water and white sand so many times.

All destinations sun and beach in september

*Durée trajet : durée approximative en avion depuis Paris

5 reasons to enjoy the September sun

Chase the sun, in southern europe, on an island in the mediterranean, off the coasts of africa, in arab-muslim lands, on the american continent, destinations you should avoid in september.

Best Places to Travel in September | 23 Spectacular Destinations

Looking for the best places to travel in September? The good news is that there’s no shortage of stellar destinations worldwide, but this handy guide highlights the cream of the crop.

The perfect seasonal transition month across both hemispheres, September stealthily flies under the radar for most travellers. But it would be a huge mistake to overlook this month for your next trip. 

In fact, September is one of my favourite times to travel thanks to warm (but not blistering) weather, fewer tourists, and plenty of celebrations. 

Read on to discover where you need to be booking a holiday in September.

Best Places to Travel in September

Ibiza, spain.

Where better to kick off this guide than in Beefa ? Ibiza is the third largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands and a global destination for party animals and beach lovers.

September is the perfect month to visit as the season slowly changes from summer to winter. Beaches, restaurants, bars, and clubs start to quiet and with many of the large numbers of annual visitors leaving the island shores, prices drop across the board.

How to Get There: Direct flights to Ibiza by RyanAir, Iberia, and Vueling Airlines are the best way to reach the island.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Six Senses Ibiza

The almost ethereal country of Iceland is also a stellar option for September travelling. You can still enjoy unique experiences such as glacier hiking, horseback riding, and waterfall spotting but without the crowds of the warmer months.

Beyond that, if you visit towards the end of the month, you can catch epic views of the Aurora Borealis. 

With many of the best places to stay to see the northern lights coming alive, it’s the perfect time for a visit. And here’s my epic 7-day Iceland itinerary to help. No need to thank me.

How to Get There: Keflavik International Airport is where you’ll fly with various airlines offering daily flights.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Hotel Ranga 

One of the crown jewels of September travel is the north African country of Egypt. And with September bringing down the insane summer heat, having a perfect Egypt itinerary is a win-win.

You’ll be glad to know that temperatures and prices ease down significantly, especially towards the end of the month. 

A cruise along the Nile is also a great choice, as are the classic cities of Cairo , Luxor and Aswan . 

Try and time your trip to coincide with Wafaa Al Nil – it’s a celebration during September dedicated to the river with live music, poetry readings, and lectures.

How to Get There: EgyptAir and British Airways flies directly to Cairo.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Pyramisa Suites Hotel Cairo

Oaxaca, Mexico

Weather-wise, Oaxaca in Mexico is the best place to travel to in September. Tourist levels dip, and the climate stays relatively comfortable.

Filled with bustling markets, artisan galleries, and independent workshops, Oaxaca is a distinctly stunning travel destination. 

Venture further into Oaxaca state and the resort region of Bahías de Huatulco is one of the best vacation spots in September.

With a culinary soul like no other, undertaking a food tour is a must, while history-buffs can delight in a tour of Monte Albán . 

How to Get There: The best way is by flying from Mexico City via Volaris, VivaAeroBus, and Aeromexico.

Check flights on Skyscanner here to Stay: Hotel Siglo XVII Art Gallery

Bath, United Kingdom

Naturally luring travellers back repeatedly, Bath in the UK couldn’t be a better choice packed with things to do . Blessed with numerous tourist attractions, including the Jane Austen Festival and the famous Roman Baths, it’s a perfect cultural trip.

The UK is undoubtedly one of the best places to travel to in September, but Bath deserves a spot in your itinerary. Visit the many theatres around the city for a whimsical end-of-summer trip.

How to Get There: The closest airport is Bristol International Airport, with direct flights offered by RyanAir, Lufthansa, and Blue Islands.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: The Z Hotel Bath

The Cyclades, Greece

The Cyclades islands off the Grecian coast are no stranger to the limelight, with islands such as Mykonos and Santorini a firm favourite with the crowds. 

September’s a great month to visit the Cyclades as the summer winds the meltemi disappear and the temperatures come down a notch or two. 

If you want a destination where you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking in pleasant weather, these islands are a surefire hit. 

Venture off the beaten path to my one of my absolute favourite islands, Sifnos for a dreamy combination of rugged coves, stunningly pretty villages and cool bars and restaurants. 

The best beaches in Mykonos are also sublime during September. Bring a light jacket for the evening, though.

How to Get There: Austrian Airlines, Condor, and RyanAir offer direct flights to hubs on the islands such as Santorini and Mykonos.

Ch eck f lights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Adel Private Suites

American Southwest National Parks, USA

Buckle up! It’s the perfect time of year to experience the best places to travel in September in the USA. 

Summer is when most people flock to icons such as Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon National Park . But, as soon as the weather starts shifting, visitor numbers lower, and prices for these American greats decrease. 

This means your visit to Yosemite , Joshua Tree, and Yellowstone will be serene and budget-friendly. Epic views without crowds? Sign me up.

How to Get There: Will vary depending on the national park. 

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Yavapai Lodge, Grand Canyon 

Venice, Italy

Built upon 118 islands connected by over 400 bridges, the city of Venice is quite the attention-grabber for September. To many, it’s among the best destinations in September that brims with limitless things to do.

During September, the hot summer weather begins to decrease throughout the country. Expect pleasant daytime highs in the mid-20ºC range and lows of around 15ºC – perfect for wandering the labyrinth-like streets.

On the heels of peak season (June, July, and August), you can expect prices for numerous activities like a gondola ride and tours of St. Mark’s Basilica to drop. Don’t forget to hop across the lagoon to Burano either. 

How to Get There: Fly directly to Venice Airport with multiple airlines, including RyanAir, Lufthansa, and Swiss Airways.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Baglioni Hotel Luna

Bruges, Belgium

Next up, let’s head to northern Belgium, where the city of Bruges lends an exquisite blend of canals, medieval buildings, and majestic willow trees. One of the shoulder months, September is an excellent time to visit the city.

With hotel prices dipping after peak season, it’s a great time to immerse yourself in this history-rich city. September lends the opportunity to visit hundreds of monuments in the Flanders area at no extra cost. 

How to Get There: The closest airport is Brussels Airport, from which the city of Bruges lies 119km northeast. TUI Fly and RyanAir operate most flights to Brussels.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Dukes’ Palace Brugge

Marrakech, Morocco

If you’re more in the mood for a trip filled with an Arabian night or two but don’t want sweltering heat to bother you, Marrakech in September is stellar.

If you’re in Marrakech during September, you can let loose at the famous Oasis Festival. It’s a city-wide electronic music festival that also focuses on wellness. 

Or opt for visiting the deserts of Morocco, going camel trekking through the palm grove, or visiting the Majorelle Garden.

How to Get There: Direct flights with Air France and Turkish Airlines are available to Marrakech Airport.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Savoy Le Grand Hotel Marrakech

Munich, Germany

What is synonymous with Germany and the month of September? Oktoberfest of course!

This festival draws millions of visitors each year, so don’t expect a quiet trip – expect a fun one.

But beyond this highlight of September, other attractions in the city also rank as some of the best things to do. Explore the many cathedrals and historical palaces, or take a sightseeing tour.

How to Get There: Direct flights with Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France to Munich Airport.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: King’s Hotel First Class

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Although the hot weather of summer still hangs around well into September, Dubai is a fantastic place to visit during this month. Don’t let that put you off though, as you can still expect a decrease in daily temperatures.

This is a significant advantage if you’re planning to travel here in September. The observation deck of the Burj Khalifa , Ferrari World, and the Dubai Frame, are must-see attractions.

How to Get There: Emirates and British Airways offer direct flights to Dubai.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Paramount Hotel Dubai

Cappadocia, Turkey

Just as the scorching heat of the Turkish summer starts to subside, the landscapes of Turkey’s central Cappadocia region come to life. A visit to the surreal landscape of limestone spires (nicknamed ‘fire chimneys’) is something few words can describe. 

Plus you’ve definitely seen the vids of the hot air balloons at sunset… Dreamy.

How to Get There: Book direct flights to Kayseri Erkilet Airport and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport with Turkish Airlines, SunExpress, or Pegasus.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Avlu Cave House

Tbilisi, Georgia

Fancy yourself as a wine connoisseur? Or perhaps even an enthusiast? Georgia is the best place to visit in September. The capital city of Tbilisi has become home to a fast-growing tourist hotspot.

But, during September, these tourists take their leave, and the first stop along the way to wine country becomes a quiet, idyllic destination. Tbilisi showcases truly epic things to do , such as wine tastings, vineyard tours, and live music festivals.

How to Get There: Flights are operated by Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar and land at Tbilisi Airport.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: The Biltmore Tbilisi Hotel

Seville, Spain

Without a doubt, one of the best places to go in September is Seville in Spain. This month is considered part of shoulder season, so expect the weather to be very pleasant for both locals and visitors. 

It’s still warm enough to sit outside with a glass of Sangria or three, don’t you worry.

Famous for its Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, visit the city this month to indulge in history. While also letting loose with the Bienal de Flamenco, the largest Flamenco festival in the world, of course.

How to Get There: Direct flights to San Pablo Airport in Seville are the best ways to get to the city.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Hotel Sevilla Centre

Gothenburg, Sweden

You might think Scandinavia is a bit too chilly in September, but you would be wrong. Gothenburg, the second biggest city in Sweden, is one of the best places to vacation at this time of year. 

The city’s forests, parks, and scenic landscapes make it picturesque – and it’s lovely to explore with a hot coffee in hand before the bone-chilling weather sets in.

What makes this such a great place is the vast amount of opportunity for relaxation. Stunning areas such as Slottsskogen and Keillers Park are the ideal place to break away from reality for a while.

How to Get There: The main hub for international travel is Goteborg Airport. Buses are available to and from the airport to major city areas.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Elite Park Avenue Hotel

Faro, Portugal

The southernmost city of Portugal, Faro, sits close to the coast near Cape Santa Maria. A popular destination in the Algarve region of the country, it offers the perfect urban coastal escape at any time of the year.

In September, however, the weather shifts towards cooler numbers, but you can still enjoy the stunning beaches, extensive history, and distinct attractions the city offers (it’s teeming with Moorish architecture that you simply have to explore). 

Don’t forget to hop over to the gorgeous Isla Deserta for a picture-perfect beach with one of the best eateries in the region – the sustainability-focused Estamine Restaurant. 

How to Get There: Flights directly available to Faro operated by British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines are the most popular.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: 3HB Faro

Cusco, Peru

As one of the highest cities in the world, the city of Cusco in Peru is an adventurer’s delight in September. Daily temperatures of low to mid-20ºC make exploring the city and the surrounding countryside ideal.

I recommend opting to use Cusco as a base for exploring iconic places such as Machu Picchu or the stunning and intriguing Rainbow Mountain. Beyond those options, Plaza de Armas, the city’s cultural heart, is a culinary and people-watching paradise.

How to Get There: Multiple airlines, including Jubba Airways, Air France, and Ethiopian Airways, fly directly to Cusco International Airport.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Casa Andina Premium Cusco

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s maddening rush of touring crowds settles down near the end of summer in Japan. During September, the city’s forestry landscape takes on a golden hue, making it a scenery-chaser’s nirvana.

Visit attractions such as the Tokyo Skytree or Tokyo Disneyland with fewer crowds (great if you want to ride on Space Mountain multiple times in one day). 

Another alternative is to join the festivities of Meguro Kumin Matsuri. This celebration brings tradition, cuisine, and music together at the biggest festival in the city.

How to Get There: Flying to Haneda Airport with Singapore Airlines, Etihad, and Qatar, is the best way to get to Tokyo.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Mitsui Garden Hotel Roppongi Tokyo Premier

Corsica, France

Fancy dreamy beaches without the crowds? Of course, you do. With sublime weather daily, September hosts the Polyphonic Song Festival for those looking for some festival fun.

But beyond lazy days spent on the beachfront, dive into the history of Corsica or head out onto the waters. If you’re anything like me, you could spend hours on a boat on its thousand-kilometre shoreline.

How to Get There: Flights land at Ajaccio Napoléon Bonaparte Airport. The most popular airlines include Air Corsica, EasyJet, and Volotea.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: Hotel La Santa

New Zealand

Trust me when I say that an adventure to New Zealand in September is the easiest way to have an unforgettable time. The country is famous for its stunning beaches, epic landscapes, and rich culture (and excellent coffee, may I add).

But you can still go skiing, snowboarding, and kayaking around the country. The best places to visit include Lake Tekapo , and a Rotorua tour is unreal with its many natural hot springs and pools.

How to Get There: Direct flights to New Zealand are the best way to reach the country, with flights to Auckland, Wellington, and Queenstown.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: JUCY Snooze Queenstown

Montréal, Canada

For a more urban and cosmopolitan vacation, head to Montréal, Canada, in September. Daily temperatures are at the low 20ºC, which makes for excellent exploration weather, if you ask me.

Discover the Notre Dame Basilica in Old Montréal, take in stunning views from atop the Parc du Mont-Royal, or explore the Montréal Botanical Gardens. 

How to Get There: Fly directly to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport with Delta, British Airways, and Air Canada.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: LHotel

Bentonville, Arkansas

A premier destination for September travellers is Bentonville, Arkansas. With the perfect weather to indulge in mountain biking trails, it’s a nature-lover’s dream location.

Bentonville is a stunner if you’re more into culture, music, art, and technology. Hosting the FORMAT Festival at the end of the month, prepare for sensory overload. Or explore The Momentary, a hub for visual and performing arts.

How to Get There: Flights to Fayetteville Airport, 13km from Bentonville, are the best way to reach the city.

Check flights on Skyscanner Where to Stay: 21c Museum Hotel Bentonville – MGallery

Where to Travel in September: Practical Tips 

• My ultimate travel tip for September is to use Skyscanner to find your cheap flights before you travel. It has the best offers and availability across the board. 
• Keep an eye on the weather predictions for your destination before you book a travel deal. Off-season deals sometimes do not translate to the best time to visit. 
• September is the best time to visit countries in Europe. It’s shoulder season with warm(ish) weather and prices dropping after the summer. 

Best Places to Visit in September: Map

September Holiday Destinations: More Inspo

• The Best Places to Travel to in August 
• The Best Places to Travel to in October

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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25+ Best Places to Visit in August and September in the USA (2024)

A s an avid traveler, I can’t help but get excited about exploring new destinations. Here’s the scoop on the best places to visit in August and Septemeber in the USA.

These months offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and vibrant cultures of the United States.

From the sun-soaked beaches to the stunning national parks of the Southwest, there’s so many incredible places to visit during this time of year.

This list of the best places to visit during August and September promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime!

Glacier National Park

Exploring the beauty of Glacier National Park in August and September offers a truly unforgettable experience.

During these summer months, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the park’s natural beauty.

Plus the warm temperatures make it the prime time for hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

With fewer crowds around during these months, you’ll have the chance to truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this incredible park.

You can even enjoy a drive through its variety of landscapes and you might even see some wildlife as you go.

As summer turns into fall, the changing colors of the leaves add an extra layer of beauty to the National Park. Creating a truly unforgettable experience.

San Francisco

Visiting San Francisco offers a blend of culture, innovation, and natural beauty in the months of August and September.

You can enjoy sunny days and mild temperatures that are perfect for exploring iconic sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and Golden Gate Park.

The city also offers a variety of outdoor adventures from hiking in the park to biking around the city.

Plus you can learn more about the city’s rich history by visiting historical sites or joining in on the diverse cultural events and live music.

Whether you’re seeking exploration or nature retreats, San Francisco has something for everyone during these months.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the charm of this park city at its finest in late September!

Yellowstone National Park

In the heart of the Rocky Mountains you can find Yellowstone National Park with its beautiful nature and wildlife.

As one of the most renowned national parks, Yellowstone offers a perfect destination as one of the top places to visit in the USA.

Especially during the high season of August and September.

During its peak season, which aligns with the warm weather , I find the park perfect for exploring its trails, spotting wildlife, or enjoying activities like horseback riding.

It even offers hot springs, each with its own unique colors and formations.

With the perfect daytime temperatures for outdoor adventures, Yellowstone offers a variety of fun activities. Promising an unforgettable late summer escape with the beauty of nature.

On the sunny shores of Southern California, San Diego sits with its vibrant culture and endless attractions.

San Diego has beautiful beaches perfect for soaking up the sun or even trying out various water sports .

One of the must-visit places is Balboa Park. It offers lush gardens, museums, and live performances.

Plus with the warm days in San Diego it makes it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and exploring the charming small towns nearby.

Whether you’re looking to relax on sandy beaches or simply have a great time under the sun, San Diego is the perfect place to visit in late summer!

As you visit Santa Fe during the late summer months of August and September, you’ll be greeted by a city with rich cultural heritage and art.

There’s something exciting about exploring its unique blend of history and creativity, set against the high desert of New Mexico.

And as you walk through the streets of Santa Fe, you’ll be charmed by the architecture that gives the city its unique character.

You won’t want to miss a visit to the Santa Fe Opera House or the chance to join in on exciting outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

Lake Michigan

Discover the beauty and endless recreational opportunities of Lake Michigan during the late summer months of August and September.

The cooler temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities along the shores of this magnificent lake.

Here are some highlights to enjoy during your visit:

• Breathtaking Scenery : Take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan with its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches .
• Water Sports : Engage in water activities like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding in the lake waters.
• Lakeside Dining : Enjoy delicious local cuisine at waterfront restaurants while enjoying the sunset views.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Michigan before the vibrant fall colors take over, turning it into an ideal late summer getaway spot.

You can even visit during Labor Day weekend to enjoy fun activities outside.

Visiting Lake Tahoe offers an unforgettable experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and a variety of activities.

The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding. While the nearby trails provide opportunities for peaceful nature walks.

Plus, the charming towns around the lake offer delightful dining options, shopping, and cultural attractions to enhance your visit.

September is the best time to visit Lake Tahoe when the summer crowds have disappeared and the fall leaves begin to fall with vibrant colors.

North Carolina

North Carolina beckons has a rich history with diverse landscapes and vibrant culture.

When exploring North Carolina in August and September, make sure to visit these best spots:

• Blue Ridge Mountains : Explore the stunning beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views .
• Outer Banks : Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Outer Banks, known for their pristine shores and charming coastal towns.
• State Parks : Discover the natural beauty of North Carolina by visiting its numerous state parks, offering great opportunities for outdoor activities.

During this time, North Carolina’s festival season is also in full swing. Making it an ideal time to experience the state’s vibrant culture.

It’s a great place to enjoy the best things the state has to offer!

Rhode Island

Rhode Island apart of the New England region is the smallest state in the US, its filled with a rich history and beautiful coastal towns waiting for you to enjoy!

During the months of August and September, the weather in Rhode Island is ideal, with little rain and average temperatures making it the perfect time to visit.

Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on the sandy shores, or enjoying delicious seafood, this big Island offers something for everyone!

It’s no wonder that this time of year is considered the best time to experience this hidden gem in the northeastern parts of the country.

Lake Placid

Tucked away in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, Lake Placid offers a serene beauty and an array of outdoor activities for you to enjoy.

This village is famous for hosting the Winter Olympics not just once but twice, making it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts.

And as summer unfolds, Mirror Lake offers a great atmosphere for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Plus the hiking trails around Whiteface Mountain present stunning views and adventures for everyone.

In the heart of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah, lies Park City, a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Park City is best known for its world-class ski resorts, offering thrilling slopes in the winter and mountain biking or hiking during the summer months.

The town isn’t only for outdoor activities but also offers charming art galleries, historical sites, and summer concerts.

Whether you’re exploring the beauty of the mountains or enjoying the cultural aspects of the town, Park City offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for your getaway.

Mackinac Island

If you’re looking for one of the best vacation spots, Mackinac Island is the perfect destination.

Towards the end of the month for August, you can enjoy lower prices and fewer people, making it an amazing place to unwind.

Visitors can enjoy fudge from one of the island’s famous shops, rent bikes to explore the scenic trails, or simply relax on the beaches.

This island offers a delightful escape where you can enjoy yourself!

This popular destination in Massachusetts is a great starting point for trips to nearby islands like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

As summer transitions into early fall, the weather remains pleasant, perfect for exploring the Cape’s beaches, bike trails, and even lighthouses.

From enjoying the fresh seafood to embarking on boat tours, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or exciting adventures, Cape Cod has something for everyone.

South Carolina

Explore the southern charm and rich history of South Carolina, a state known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture.

When visiting in August or September, some of the best places to check out include:

• Myrtle Beach : Enjoy the sun, sand, and entertainment at one of the top beach destinations in the United States .
• Charleston : Discover the cobblestone streets, colorful houses , and delicious Southern cuisine in this historic city.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride : Experience South Carolina from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque landscapes.

These destinations offer a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and adventure during this time of year.

Pike Place Market

Located in the heart of Seattle, Pike Place Market is an iconic destination for locals and tourists.

The market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can explore fresh produce, unique crafts, and delicious local treats.

And you can’t forget the entertaining fishmongers tossing fish or the famous original Starbucks coffee shop.

Pike Place Market isn’t just a place to shop; it’s an experience that immerses you in the culture of the Pacific Northwest.

Whether you’re looking for fresh flowers , handmade souvenirs, or a quick snack, Pike Place Market is a must-visit spot during your time in Seattle.

Grand Canyon National Park

Visiting Grand Canyon National Park in August or September promises an unforgettable adventure and experience.

As the temperatures begin to cool slightly, it’s the perfect time to enjoy hikes along the park’s numerous trails.

Here are three must-do popular activities during your visit:

• Hike along the rim trails to witness stunning panoramic views of the canyon.
• Descend into the canyon on a guided mule ride for a unique perspective of its vastness.
• Watch the sunrise or sunset over the canyon, painting the sky with a myriad of colors and casting a magical glow over the ancient rock formations.

Zion National Park

Visiting Zion National Park in August and September offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Utah’s most iconic national park.

As the temperatures begin to gradually cool off from the peak of summer , Zion’s red rock formations and sandstone cliffs provide a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor adventures.

And don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning sunrise casting a golden glow over the canyon walls or the vibrant fall foliage painting the landscape in rich hues.

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Pacific Northwest

Getting to visit the Pacific Northwest in August and September offers the perfect opportunity to experience the region’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.

From the forests of Oregon to the coastlines of Washington, this time of year showcases the area’s natural beauty at its finest.

In August, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking , camping, and exploring.

September brings cooler temperatures and the beginning of fall foliage, adding an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.

Here are three must-visit destinations in the Pacific Northwest:

• Olympic National Park : Explore temperate rainforests, wild coastline, and glacier-capped peaks all within one park.
• Mount Rainier National Park : Encounter the iconic Mount Rainier, an active volcano surrounded by meadows of vibrant wildflowers.
• Columbia River Gorge : Witness breathtaking waterfalls, scenic drives, and numerous hiking trails along the Columbia River.

North Cascades National Park

As summer transitions into early fall, the North Cascades National offers weather ideal for outdoor adventures.

Hike through over 300 glaciers and countless waterfalls, or set sail on a scenic drive along winding mountain roads offering breathtaking views.

The park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting.

You can even see the ecosystems that range from old-growth forests to alpine meadows.

Don’t miss the chance to witness the stunning fall foliage in vibrant hues of red , orange, and yellow during September.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a breathtaking stretch of road winding through the Appalachian Mountains.

As you drive along this iconic route, you’ll encounter stunning views, charming mountain towns, and even outdoor activities.

• Enjoy panoramic views of rolling mountains and lush forests .
• Stop by overlooks for perfect photo opportunities.
• Hike trails that lead to hidden waterfalls and peaceful meadows.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for a road trip or a nature-filled adventure .

Don’t miss the chance to explore this picturesque drive during your late summer or early fall travels .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of America’s most iconic natural landscapes.

As summer transitions to early fall, the park comes alive with vibrant colors, cooler temperatures, and a sense of tranquility.

As you hike through the ancient mountains, you’ll encounter over 1,500 species of flowering plants , including vibrant wildflowers like trilliums and violets.

Keep an eye out for the park’s famous black bears , white-tailed deer, and salamanders.

Whether you’re into trekking, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying nature’s beauty, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone.

Las Vegas has dazzling lights and vibrant entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a thrilling escape.

• Experience the iconic Las Vegas Strip with its world-renowned casinos, hotels, and extravagant shows.
• Indulge in gourmet dining at celebrity chef restaurants or savor a buffet feast offering a wide array of cuisines.
• Explore beyond the strip and discover the natural beauty of Red Rock Canyon, just a short drive away, offering hiking trails and stunning desert landscapes.

It truly has something for everyone, whether you’re into gambling, live entertainment, fine dining, or outdoor adventures.

It’s a city that’s filled with energy and excitement, promising an unforgettable experience with plenty of fun things to do.

Priest Lake

Priest Lake offers a serene escape surrounded by pine trees and crystal-clear waters.

Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this hidden gem has something for everyone.

You can explore the 23-mile-long lake by kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply taking a swim.

And if you’re into fishing, Priest Lake is a haven for anglers with its abundance of trout and kokanee salmon.

Make the most of your late summer days at Priest Lake, where nature’s beauty awaits.

Myrtle Beach

With its sun-kissed shores and vibrant boardwalk, Myrtle Beach is a place for travelers to escape and relax .

The good reason to visit this city is that it offers an array of activities and attractions for you to enjoy:

• Sandy Beaches: Miles of pristine sandy beaches invite you to relax under the warm sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Boardwalk: Explore the bustling boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and live entertainment, creating a vibrant atmosphere day and night .
• Golf Courses: Myrtle Beach is renowned for its world-class golf courses, attracting golf enthusiasts to tee off against stunning coastal backdrops.

Experience the charm and excitement of Myrtle Beach for an unforgettable vacation by the sea.

Denali National Park

Getting to visit Denali National Park in August or September offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of Alaska’s wilderness as summer transitions into fall.

August is an ideal time for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot grizzly bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep roaming freely throughout the park.

While September brings cooler temperatures and the possibility of witnessing the northern lights dancing across the night sky .

Whether you’re exploring the park’s vast wilderness or on a drive along the Denali Park Road promises unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City in August and September offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

As summer transitions into early fall, the city’s pleasant weather makes it an ideal time to explore its numerous attractions.

If you enjoy the outdoors you can visit the nearby Wasatch Mountains for a hike or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Jordan River Parkway Trail.

Whether you’re taking in the breathtaking views from Ensign Peak or strolling through the charming streets of downtown Salt Lake City, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy!

Lake Powell

Seeing Lake Powell in August and September offers an exciting retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers.

Water sports such as kayaking , paddleboarding, and jet skiing provide endless opportunities for adventure and excitement.

Plus anglers can try their luck at fishing for bass, catfish, and trout in the abundant waters of Lake Powell.

As the sun sets over the horizon, visitors can unwind and enjoy a peaceful evening under the starlit sky, creating unforgettable memories of Lake Powell.

Visiting Place in The USA

August and September are great months to explore some of the best destinations in the USA.

Whether you’re into outdoor adventures like hiking in Glacier National Park or enjoying the vibrant city life in San Francisco, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park or the excitement of Las Vegas.

With so many amazing places to choose from, you’re sure to have a memorable end-of-summer getaway.

Get the scoop on more like this:

• 25 Best Warm Beaches in Florida to Visit
• 35 Best Places to Visit in July in the USA
• 20+ Best Places to Visit in June for Couples
• 30+ Best Warm Places to Visit in May in USA

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