Where is it hot in September: 9 destinations for off-season sun seekers

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Keen to know where’s hot in September? Luckily, there are plenty of beautiful destinations around the world that stay hot well into early autumn.

Basking in the dazzling heat is the stuff that summer holiday dreams are made of. However, the thought of the high season crowds can put some travellers off.

Here, I’ve made a handy round up of the nine best places to go on holiday in September for sun – from European gems to a selection of more long-haul destinations.

Ready to find the best sunny off-season retreat for September 2024?

The best places to go on holiday in September for sun

Search below by price or temperature to find the best warm destination for you based on KAYAK data, or keep reading for more info on the best hot spots this month.

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A woman in casual attire smiles as she sits on the railings of the sidewalk next to a bridge.
A cityscape with a market square in the middle and the Acropolis in the background.
Wide shot of female solo traveler exploring the streets of the Medina of Marrakech while on vacation


Where is hot in September: Europe

There's no need to venture too far to find hot weather in September. Europe's beaches are still balmy after being bathed in sunshine all summer. Prefer a city break? According to KAYAK data, Athens and Seville promise warm average temperatures of 25 °C and 24 °C respectively.

1. Seville, Spain

A crowded plaza with horses strapped on carriages surrounded by outdoor seating areas along the colourful city buildings.
  • Average September temperature: 25 °C

For a slice of late Spanish summer - and some beautiful architecture - it's hard to beat Seville. It's easily one of the best places to go on holiday in September for sun. As well as being one of the city's lowest months for rainfall, you can also expect temperatures to soar into the low 30s on some days.

Seville's relatively compact size makes it a destination town to explore on foot. Hot spots to tick off? Start with the sweeping Plaza de España famed for its grand mix of architectural styles. There's also the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Alcázar of Seville - the location of Seville's former Islamic-era citadel - and the monumental Seville Cathedral.

One major benefit of visiting in September is the dry weather. Alfresco dining in tapas restaurants in the Old Town is possible most days. You can also enjoy leisurely cycle rides along the riverfront or a flamenco show at a local bar like the much-loved El Patio Sevillano.

2. Athens, Greece

Aerial view of the city of Athens with the Acropolis in the middle of a cliff surrounded by tall green trees at sunset.
  • Average September temperature: 24 °C

September is a great time of year to visit Greece. The weather is still balmy and popular attractions, like the gorgeous beaches and historical sites, tend to be less crowded. Always wanted to visit Athens? September is a brilliant month see its ancient attractions with fewer crowds and to enjoy delicious local cuisine.

Temperatures in September tend to sit around 24 °C which makes sightseeing possible without working up too much of a sweat. Your first port of call? The Acropolis where you'll find a handful of the world's most magnificent historical structures, including the Parthenon. If you need a little break from the sun, pop into the Acropolis Museum to be amazed at its centuries-old artefacts.

Another reason to visit Athens in September is the cost. Hotel prices tend to drop considerably from the busy school holiday months. According to KAYAK data, the average price per night sits around £123 - leaving you with more cash to spend on mouth-watering Greek cuisine.

3. Chania, Greece

A hiker wearing a hat and carrying a backpack walks on a path at the mouth of the Samaria Gorge, with vibrant oleander flowers in bloom along the trail.
Two men in hats sit on blue wooden chairs and mend yellow fishing nets.
A picturesque paradise of turquoise beach with rock formations.
  • Average September temperature: 23 °C

If you’re looking for white sands, sea views and plenty of culture, Crete is the Greek island I’d recommend for you in September. It's Greece's largest island and offers so much whether you're after romantic luxury or a cheap family getaway.

Chania on its north-west side is a brilliant destination to head for. As well as being easily connected thanks to its international airport, it also offers up very pleasant and sunny climes for a late summer break. Days spent on the sand at nearby idyllic Elafonisi or by the pool will definitely be on the cards - with temperatures soaring to highs of 27°C.

There's also plenty to keep you entertained beyond the beach. Chania itself is a historic medieval city, with an attractive 14th-century Venetian harbour to boot. Venture there for some authentic Greek grub before checking out the Maritime Museum and Archaeological Museum.

4. Lisbon, Portugal

A happy couple holding hands while strolling down a shopping strip.
  • Average September temperature: 22°C

With hot temperatures, legendary cuisine, historical sites, and awesome beaches nearby, Lisbon is the September destination that has it all. September temperatures in Lisbon peak in the low-30s but average a perfectly passable 22°C. It's one of the city's driest months too, with an average of just 29mm of rain.

You'll have no shortage of things to do in Lisbon. Explore the beautiful streets of Bairro Alto and keep your eyes peeled for the city's famous colourful tiles. Venture up to Alfama and marvel at the views from Sao Jorge Castle. Catch the train to Sintra to explore its selection of opulent palaces. Or find a local bar with an outdoor terrace and order a refreshing porto tonico (white port mixed with tonic water).

When the temperature climbs (which it sometimes does, even in September in Lisbon), you can take the train or bus to one of several nearby beaches.

White sand Costa da Caparica is a magnet for surfers, while the charming seaside town of Cascais is home to some of the best beaches in Portugal. The bottom line? Lisbon is ideal for sun lovers who want to enjoy the city sites and chill out on the coast.

5. Madrid, Spain

The facade of the Royal Palace of Madrid against the clear blue sky.
  • Average September temperature: 20 °C

While not quite as balmy as Seville, Madrid is still blessed with very respectable average temperatures of 20°C. Plus, as Spain's capital city, it is bursting with culture.

Strolling around Madrid's elegant plazas and long boulevards in the September sunshine is a true pleasure - especially with the treasures they're lined with. History lovers will be in their element at the Royal Palace and Armoury. There's also the Art Triangle - the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum - which are filled with treasures.

If you'd rather take advantage of the warm yet temperature weather, there are lots of options. Sip sangria at one of Madrid's stunning rooftop bars, spend the day in El Retiro Park or watch music in the open air at a local music festival like Dcode Festival. You could also take a day trip from Madrid to the National Park of Cuenca for hiking and wild swimming.

Where is hot in September for longer-haul breaks?

When it comes to which destinations are hot in September a little further afield, you'll be spoiled for choice. The month marks the end of the rainy season for much of Asia, while the USA and Central America offer up plenty of sunny spots for a late summer beach getaway.

6. Marrakech, Morocco

Wide shot of smiling couple taking selfie while dining with friends at rooftop restaurant in the Medina of Marrakech while on vacation
  • Average September temperature: 26 °C

Marrakech is a great choice for a sunny September break. With the Moroccan capital still regularly enjoying temperatures between 27 and 33 °C throughout September, heat-seekers will feel right at home. The city features many beautiful architectural sites and lush gardens, including the historic Palacio da Bahia and the Jardin Majorelle.

While the summer crowds will have started to thin, visitors to Marrakech will still find plenty of places to eat and drink in September.

Popular eateries like Dameh or Pointbar offer the chance to try some traditional Moroccan cuisine. Meanwhile, the thronging Marrakech markets are a great way to soak up the local culture and enjoy the thriving atmosphere. You can even grab a few bargains while you’re at it!

7. Antalya, Turkey

A young woman climbing over large blocks of rocks behind an ancient entry gate.
A beautiful bay surrounded by steep cliffs that are bridged by a roadway along the slopes.
A girl on a kayak embarks on an exciting exploration of an ancient Lycian tomb, which juts out of the water amidst a flooded city.
  • Average September temperature: 25 °C

If you're searching for hot countries in September that are less than a five-hour flight away, Turkey will always come up trumps - especially as the month still sits within its summer season. Antalya on its serene Turquoise Coast is especially desirable, thanks in part to the fact temperatures remain in the high 20s throughout the month.

Look forward to relaxing dips in the balmy Mediterranean Ocean at the city's two main beaches: Lara Beach and Konyaaltı Beach. If you fancy a break from the sand, visit the Old Harbour where you'll find remnants of the city's Roman past. This includes Hadrian's Gate and Hidirlik Tower.

Want to keep costs down? You're in luck as, according to KAYAK data, the average hotel price for Antalya in September is just £52 for a night.

8. Miami, USA

A colourful lifeguard tower with blue and yellow flags on a sandy beach.
  • Average September temperature: 28°C

When it comes to where's hot in September in the USA, Miami is a safe bet. The vibrant city on Florida's sun-soaked coastline is blessed with average temperatures of 28°C in September - and where better to enjoy those rays than the beach?

South Beach is fantastic for people-watching. Or make a beeline for Crandon Park Beach at the very end of Key Biscayne for silky sand dunes and a family-friendly vibe. Miami is also famed for its eclectic cultural scene.

Don't skip exploring Little Havana where you'll find Cuban restaurants, salsa dancing clubs and the fascinating CubaOcho museum which explores the city's links to the island.

And, finally, you'll want to check out the Everglades. Miami is a gateway to this vast national park brimming with subtropical flora and fauna - including crocodiles and alligators. September is a good time to go as it marks the end of the rainy season. Humidity levels are starting to drop and you're less likely to be caught in a rainy shower.

9. Cebu City, The Philippines

A statue of a dragon decorated in a lush park of a colourful multi-tiered temple on a hilltop.
  • Average September temperature: 28 °C

Aquamarine water, butter-soft sand, swaying palm trees...the Philippines' islands really are paradise. If you fancy a trip to Asia this year, you'll find no shortage of sunshine to enjoy. This is especially true in Cebu City - the buzzing capital of Cebu Island and a great jumping-off point for dozens of gorgeous islands.

The energetic city itself has heaps of appeal, making it well-worth spending a couple of days exploring before you head to the beach. It's dotted with picturesque 16th century Spanish colonial buildings, including the ornate Minor Basilica of the Holy Child of Cebu (that's also a great place to shelter from the 28 °C heat).

You can also get in touch with your spiritual side at the Cebu Taoist Temple. Or why not take a day trip to Mt Busay for epic vistas of the city, sea and sky?

Once you're done sightseeing, there's a plethora of islands to choose from for a little R&R. Bantayan Island is blessed with serene beaches that rival those found in popular Boracay. Alternatively, Malaspacua Islands is a gem if you fancy a diving adventure.

Where's hot and cheap in September?

When it comes to planning your perfect holiday, there are no hard rules in place. Travelling in September puts you firmly in the off-season, meaning you can likely find great deals on flights and hotels and enjoy famous tourist attractions without the enormous summer crowds. My top picks for an affordable getaway? Lisbon for a city adventure and Antalya for a cheap beach break.

Need some travel inspiration? Check out where's hot in October and November. You can also check out KAYAK Explore to find more deals on destinations for your preferred holiday dates.

Recommendation ranking of cities:

Our recommendation ranking of where to go is calculated based on the presented five factors: average flight prices, average hotel prices, average, high temperatures, average low temperatures, and average precipitation. Flight prices, hotel prices, and precipitation constitute inverse factors, meaning the lower the better. All factors are equally weighted. From the ranked destination lists, destination exclusions may have been applied in cases of insufficient data or according to the official travel advisory at the time when the data analysis was conducted.

Flight and hotel prices:

Average prices are estimated from KAYAK internal data from search period ‘01-02-2024’ to ‘15-04-2024’ for travel period ‘09-2024’ - ‘12-2024’. Flight prices include economy class return trips for one traveler, and hotel prices represent 3 stars or below hotels’ nightly rates for a standard double room. Price insights are subject to vary depending on exact departure airport and over time as travel dates are approaching.

Weather (monthly average, high and low temperatures, and average precipitation):

Weather data is pulled from a third-party site, Weatherbase, and has not been verified by KAYAK. Monthly average temperature and precipitation data are based on historical insights from the past 102 years. Weatherbase data is updated in real-time from the US Census Bureau and other databases worldwide.

The post Where is it hot in September: 9 destinations for off-season sun seekers appeared first on KAYAK Blog UK.