Where To Go In September

September is a traveller’s dream: it’s when the heat of the European summer has eased into manageable temps, prices are cheaper as the peak has passed, and crowds lessen, making for more meaningful experiences.

It’s such a great time to travel, many bide their time for the shoulder season to arrive. Even if just feels like time for another getaway, September has a range of options for all budgets and preferences. You can take a bargain beach break for maximum relaxation for minimum cost, or venture deep into Vietnam as it comes into its best season, or explore places that carry a specific draw in September – whether culinary or sport-based.

As a mere sample of all September has to offer, here are our favourite places for the month.

Sapa Valley, Vietnam

A comfortable overnight train from Vietnam’s capital of Hanoi – which snakes through vast landscapes of rural rice terraces, farmland and morning mist – leaves you within reach of the famous Sapa Valley, a stunning hinterland of Vietnam. September marks the tail end of the rice harvest, when the graduating terraces shift from emerald green to bright gold before they’re cut back for winter. Arguably, it’s the most photogenic time of the year.

It also brings the best weather: the severe heat of summer has lessened, and the atmospheric mist that rolls across the valley each morning dissipates by lunchtime to reveal sweeping views across the Hoang Lien Son Mountains. That makes for exquisite hikes through the area, where the trails are dry and soft, and daily life happens at an unhurried pace. Dive into local life and try a homestay with a local family – it’s an authentic experience you won’t forget in a hurry.

Livade, Croatia

September marks the start of white truffle hunting season in Europe, and the experience is certainly worth a truffle-based dinner party story. While Italy is most synonymous with finding this precious ingredient, the harvest is just as bountiful in neighbouring Croatia, and a truffle-hunting trip is usually better value for money too. Try it in Livade, in the northwest of the country. Surrounded by the muddy banks of the Mirna River and the shady Motovun Forest, the conditions are perfect for finding the coveted prize. You’ll meet professional hunters and learn how they use their expertly-trained dogs to track down the buried treasure. Of course, no hunting experience is complete without a meal that incorporates that day’s find, so complete it with a delicately aromatic feast of truffle spread, truffle cheese and truffle pasta.

The next day, soak weary muscles at Istarske Toplice, a nearby expansive wellness spa built underneath a dramatic 85-metre cliff, which features mineral-rich spring waters and five different types of saunas. That’ll cure what ails ya.

Cromvoirt, Netherlands

To add a sporting element to your September holiday, how about a jaunt to watch women’s golf at the very highest level? For the first time, the Netherlands will host the 2026 Solheim Cup, which pits the best American players against the best European players, making for a fun, competitive and often raucous atmosphere. Taking place from September 7th to 13th, its fast pace and lively crowd mean it’s a top choice for a first-time golf spectator.

The village is in North Brabant, so be sure to explore the historical town of Hertogenbosch and the buzzy city of Eindhoven, which is where you’ll also find the nearest airport.

Fuerteventura, Spain

For a cheap and cheerful break from it all, Fuerteventura is a wallet-friendly choice. Package holidays are priced competitively, with a week’s holiday starting at £350 for flights and hotel.

The second largest Canary Island, it’s not just a fly and flop. The island boasts volcanic landscapes, Spanish culinary traditions, and tiny fishing villages that offer a quiet alternative to the modern-day pace. Surfing is also a big draw: newbies will enjoy El Cotillo in the north, where there are plenty of surf schools and consistent, gentle waves. Meanwhile more experienced surfers can ride out more challenging Atlantic waves in the west.

Sigtuna, Sweden

While the Scandinavian countries are still glorious enough to visit, dive into Sweden’s eventful history in Sigtuna. A 30-minute drive from Stockholm Airport, it’s where Viking and medieval history come to life in the most inspiring of ways. Imagine a vibrant centre of cobbled streets, peppered with mysterious rune stones from 1,000 years ago – often located right where they were originally set. You might stumble across them, or follow the walking route that incorporates all 15 of them.

You’ll also find plenty of viewpoints, cafes and activities along the glass-like Lake Mälaren – September is the ideal time to visit as the promenade is less busy, but still warm enough for no-jacket strolls. If you cycle, rent a bike and aim for Skokloster Castle, a stunning 17th century lakeside castle, impressively preserved both on the outside and inside.

While it’s possible to visit Sigtuna as a day trip from Stockholm, a weekend here allows a more relaxed pace, and a deeper insight into one of Sweden’s most charming and culturally-rich towns.

Wherever you’re travelling this September, make sure your trip is protected with travel insurance. Switched On’s feature-packed cover includes a 24/7 emergency medical helpline, Air Doctor in-resort medical support and gadget cover as standard.