15 best places to visit in September 2024

Last Updated: January 22, 2024

With the summer crowds gone and the temperatures pleasantly mild in many locations, September is an excellent time to visit a number of destinations all around the world. From beaches to mountains, we look at what suits our entire travel community.

With the ‘new normal’ in place, avoiding the crowds might be the best reason to travel. We have selected some of the best places to travel in September for you to choose from.

Here are the best places to visit in September 2024

Best places to visit in September 2024 in Asia

Beijing, China – The best place for culture

Best places to visit in September, Beijing, China — Beijing is one of the places to travel in September to explore China’s culture

If you are looking for history and culture, we think Beijing should be top of the list of where to go in September. The weather is pleasant (with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 26°C) and should offer clear, unclouded views of the Great Wall of China.

In Beijing itself there are plenty of fascinating areas to explore, from the imposing Forbidden City palace (dating from 1420) and Tiananmen Square (the largest city square in the world) to the quaint old streets of the Gulou East Street hutongs.

Beijing Capital International Airport is a hub for international travel and can be reached from many worldwide destinations. Beijing also offers the opportunity to venture further afield in China with plenty of rail connections and domestic flights. Stay in the hutongs areas of the city for a taste of old China.

READ MORE: The Great Wall of China is one of the seven wonders of the world, do you know what are the other ones?

Seoul, South Korea – Experience the land of kimchi and K-pop

Best places to travel in September, Seoul, South Korea — September is a great time to visit Seoul and discover Korea food and K-Pop

The rainy season is ending in September, and the temperatures are quite pleasant. The capital of Korea offers many hidden delights to travellers, not least being the ever-popular Korean cuisine as well as the birthplace of the cultural phenomenon – K-pop or Korean pop music.

By visiting Seoul in September, you will get the chance to avoid the crowds, while still having enough sunshine to experience the sights and sounds of this bustling city. There are many direct flights to the capital city from all around the world.

READ MORE: Seoul is also home to one of the world’s best amusement parks

Tioman Island, Malaysia – Surf and dive in peace

Where is hot in September, Tioman Island, Malaysia — Tioman is a great place to visit in September for beach and water activities

Though technically still the high season, there are slightly fewer crowds in September in Tioman Island. Therefore, if you prefer a less-crowded beach vacation, September is one of the best months to visit the island and still avoid most of the rain.

The surfing season is starting at that time and it is still possible to get a few fruitful dives, so it is definitely worth the trip. Historically, there is less demand, so the hotels are cheaper as well, which makes this one of the most affordable times to visit Tioman Island as well.

So for a quiet beach vacation filled with activities and duty-free shopping, make sure to add Tioman Island to your list of places to go in September.

READ MORE: Tioman Island made to our list of the world’s best places to travel alone

North West Sri Lanka

Immerse yourself in the past

Where to go in September, Sri Lanka — Visit Sri Lanka in September for a historical experience

Take a road trip through the North West of Sri Lanka, specifically a road trip between Jaffna and Trincomalee. For those who love road trips, nature and amazing scenery, this is one of the best places to visit in September.

Visit Fort Frederick, which is a Portuguese fortress built in the year 1624 or the Thirukkoneswaram Kovil (Hindu temple) near the sea when you reach Trincomalee.

This amazing coastal city is known for amazing beaches, historical sites and friendly people, and can make a great starting point for your road trip. Going there just to experience the sunset over the Trincomalee Bay might be worth the trip alone.

Once you want to move on to the unique Jaffna, you can decide between a four-hour car ride or even a train ride to explore the country. Jaffna is a city steeped in history and was most recently the last fighting ground during Sri Lanka’s civil war. This has led to poor infrastructure, so don’t expect a metropolitan city. However, the charm and historical significance of the city makes up for it.

Make sure to visit the Jaffna library, which is one of the biggest libraries in the entire Asia, the Jaffna Fort and even the Jaffna Market – which gives you an authentic insight into Sri Lanka and the daily lives of the people who live there.

READ MORE: Sri Lanka is also one of the best destinations for an unforgettable honeymoon

Male, Maldives

The best place for self-indulgence

The Maldives sets the benchmark for luxurious beach getaways – and there is a hefty price tag that comes along with that reputation. This month is the perfect time to visit as the rainy season from July to August comes to an end.

You can still expect patchy showers and wet weather, but the payoff is that you can get a resort villa stay for way lower prices.

READ MORE: The Maldives is also famous for having some of the most amazing overwater bungalows in the world

Best places to visit in September 2024 in Europe

Sicily, Italy

The best place for food and wine

Sicily is a popular summer destination, but this Italian island is actually one of the best places to visit in September. The crowds have returned home, the weather is warm, but not so hot so as to discourage activities.

The average high temperature is 24.4°C so relaxing on the beach is definitely a possibility, as is exploring ancient cultural sites (such the Valle Dei Templi or the Ancient Greek theatre of Taormina). The real draw, however, is the food and drink festivals which include, but are not limited to, those celebrating sausage (Sagra della Salsiccia) couscous (CousCous Fest), fish and seafood (Sagra del pesce), ice cream (Sherbeth Festival) and beer (Birocco).

Sicily has four international and two domestic airports so it is highly accessible by plane. Trains also service the island including those that run from Naples or Rome.

Pula, Croatia

The best place for music festivals

The milder weather and smaller crowds make Croatia a highlight on the list of where to go in September. Pula’s highlight is the city’s Outlook Festival which is held in an abandoned fort (with the opening concert in a 2,000-year-old amphitheatre). The festival features the music of various genres including dub, techno, hip-hop, and reggae.

Pula is serviced by an international airport with flights from plenty of European cities including Dublin, Amsterdam, Edinburgh, London, Vienna, and Zurich. It can also be reached by direct buses from many cities including Split, Trieste, Belgrade, and Venice.

READ MORE: Check out our list of the best music festival destinations from around the world

Pompeii, Italy

The best place to explore an ancient city

September is the perfect month to walk along the cobblestone-paved streets of Pompeii. With lower crowds this season, this ancient city will feel like it’s open just for you.

A good place to start would be Naples, which is less than an hour away from Pompeii. Take a trip to the past to see how the Romans lived in this well-preserved part of Italy.

READ MORE: Be prepared for your trip with our Ultimate Holiday Packing List

Best places to visit in September 2024 in Africa

Hermanus, South Africa

The best place for wildlife and whale watching

The days may be getting shorter in the Northern Hemisphere, but September means spring is arriving in the South. This is when southern right whales can be found in the coastal waters off the town of Hermanus in South Africa.

There is even a Hermanus Whale Festival held to celebrate their presence. Visitors will not need to leave the shore to see the whales up close, making it one of the best places to visit in September.

The dry season in South Africa is from May to September, so you can follow up your whale watching with a safari trip in excellent conditions. There will be no summer holiday crowds, the risk of contracting malaria is low and the dry weather means that animals gather around watering holes, making them easy to spot.

To reach Hermanus, fly into Cape Town and take the 76-mile drive to Hermanus.

READ MORE: Can you guess what are the most dangerous animals in the world?

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Trek in lush rainforests to see awe-inspiring sights

The world-famous natural landscape of Victoria Falls is highly affected by seasonal changes. July to September brings about one of the better weather conditions to visit the area.

During this time, the water flow transitions from high to low tide, which allows for some spectacular views with low mist. Lower water flow also means that you can take part in activities such as water rafting.

Take note that this is also peak season in Victoria Falls due to its favourable weather, so plan ahead to secure your ideal trip.

Best places to visit in September 2024 in the Americas

Ontario, Canada

The best place for beautiful seasonal colours

As summer draws to an end, Ontario, Canada is one of the best places to visit in September to immerse yourself in nature. Algonquin Provincial Park is a great place to enjoy the weather that is still mild enough for camping, whilst experiencing the leaves turning to their beautiful russet autumn colours.

The camp spot is located on the southeastern tip of Grand Lake with other smaller lakes close enough to hike to. The Achray Campground has flushing toilets, picnic facilities, boat launching ramps and a yurt that you can rent out.

Fly into Ottawa and rent a car to get the most out of your Ontarian experience.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know to avoid surprises when renting a car

Patagonia, Argentina and Chile

The best place for adventure

Where is hot in September, Patagonia, Argentina, Chile — Patagonia, Argentina and Chile are amazing places to visit in September

Spring falls here from September to November. The region re-awakens after having shut down for winter making it one of the best places to visit in September. There are fewer international tourists than during the peak season and the Lake District trails will be clear for hiking, biking and kayaking.

Skiing is available at mountain resorts and whales can be spotted around Península Valdés. Choose Northern Patagonia for a chance to see the first signs of wildflowers.

The Argentinian Lake District can be reached from San Carlos de Bariloche, a two-hour flight from Buenos Aires.

READ MORE: Find out why Patagonia and Argentina are also some of the best and safest places for female solo travel

Montreal, Canada

The best place for off-peak prices

Montreal can be a wonderful city break in September. As families start to get back home for work and school, the streets are emptier, giving you an opportune few days to explore the city.

The city has a lively food, arts and culture scene for every kind of traveller to enjoy. Check out the numerous bars, restaurants, museums and landmarks in Montreal for a curated experience. Montreal is bustling with activity in every neighbourhood, from street fairs to the Cabaret Mado to clubs in Downtown.

READ MORE: We selected Montreal as one of the top 10 best cities in the world to visit

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The best place for sightseeing in cooler weather

The thought of crossing the Grand Canyon off your bucket list can sometimes be put off by sweltering heat and large crowds. The weather gets a lot cooler in September and trails are still open towards the end of summer.

Furthermore, as vacation crowds start to clear, lodging becomes more available and affordable. Visiting Arizona at the end of summer will give you the ultimate vacation experience.

READ MORE: The Grand Canyon is one the 10 places to visit before you die

Best places to visit in September 2024 in Oceania

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

A crowd-free paradise

If you are wondering where is hot in September, Bora Bora is one of the most stunning destinations in the world.

In September there is plenty of sunshine and fewer tourists so you can enjoy your private overwater bungalow in perfect tranquility. Temperatures range between 21-26°C and you can take advantage of the pleasant temperatures to snorkel, fish and explore the island and surrounding Motus.

To reach this tropical paradise, fly to French Polynesia’s Faa’a International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti where you can catch a connecting flight to Motu Mote in the Bora Bora island group.

READ MORE: Discover our list of the most beautiful beaches in the world

Our list includes the best adventure destinations, cultural highlights, tropical paradises and natural beauty spots. Take your pick from our selection and choose one of the best places to travel in September.