The height of the summer is past and now is the time to make the most of sunny weather, warm seas and fewer crowds. So where in Europe is hot in September? Temperatures vary enormously across the continent so here’s a guide to help you pinpoint the best places to go in September in Europe when you’re looking for a boost of late-summer sunshine.
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Where is hot in September Europe
You could actually write a book on best European countries to visit in September! The mellow weather of this off-peak month makes it the perfect time to go exploring or to stretch out on a beach to catch the late summer sun. So I’ve tried hard to keep this list to manageable proportions.
These top picks are the places that combine reliable sunshine, warm seas and cultural attractions in September in Europe. I’ve included one or two less-obvious choices for those seeking destinations that are off the tourist trail.
Why Visit Europe in September
September is the sweet spot between the peak crowds and high temperatures of July and August and the unpredictability of the rains in October. Plus, as shoulder season, you’ll find in most places that prices are lower than high season. It’s actually my favourite month of the year for a beach holiday in Europe.
Most UK and European school terms begin in early September. So, from the second week of the month, destinations will be quieter than in August. And in the southern Mediterranean the sea will still be beautifully warm.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fewer crowds than in high summer | Some attractions, in particular beach clubs, may close or have reduced hours |
| Temperate weather and warm seas | In some places the transition between seasons can make weather less predictable |
| Local events and festivals | Weekends, and festivals, can still be busy with local crowds |
| Possibility of cheaper flights and accommodation that in peak season | An ‘end of season’ feel in some popular holiday locations |
Europe in September Weather
Generally speaking, across the continent, the weather in Europe in September is milder and cooler than the peak of summer in July and August.
You can usually expect warmer temperatures at the beginning of September, with the thermometer dropping as the weeks draw on. In northern Europe September is the first of the three months of autumn and you’ll notice the change in climate as the days get shorter and cooler.
In southern Europe temperatures can remain quite high. The hottest European countries in September lie to the south of the continent and their Mediterranean climates are characterised by hot dry summers and mild winters.
Although the mercury may drop as September progresses, and mornings and evenings may be cooler, the further south and east you are in the Mediterranean the warmer the weather is likely to be. These southern regions are the best places to visit in Europe in September for sun.
Sea temperatures in September in Europe
The Mediterranean sea builds up warmth through the summer and is very balmy in September. This isn’t so much the case on Europe’s cooler, wilder Atlantic coastlines, although again the sea will be warmer here than it is in springtime.
Extreme Weather in Europe in September
Unpredictable by their very nature, extreme weather events are unfortunately becoming more and more common in Europe. In 2023 we saw the hottest September on record in Europe with many countries experiencing unexpectedly high temperatures and heatwaves.
The average temperatures below are from historical data and may not reflect the significant highs experienced in some European countries in 2023. We don’t know what this year has in store, but you can check Accuweather.com for the daily temperatures recorded in September 2023.
Where is hot in September Europe: Beaches
In Europe’s beach destinations the intense heat of summer should be waning by September. But seas will still be warm, especially on the southern Mediterranean coastlines. There is more risk of rain than in peak summer, but September is usually drier than October. In some regions the chances of a wet day increase as the month progresses.
With warm seas and fewer crowds September can be a great time for a beach holiday in southern Europe. Here’s where is hot in Europe in September.
Cyprus
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 29°C/19°C (84/66°F)
- Average hours of sun: 11
- Average days of rain/mm: 0.6/3.8mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 26°C/79°F
- Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 35 mins
Nestled in the south eastern corner of the Mediterranean, sunny Cyprus takes the top spot for reliable weather and warm seas in September. The southerly Greek region of the island is renowned for its soft golden sands, calm waters and hospitable culture. It is one of the hottest places in Europe in September.
These qualities of course have not gone un-noticed and Cyprus’ main resorts are busy. But you can seek quieter corners like Latchi and Polis on the western coast above Paphos. Here you can explore the unspoilt Akamas National Park, eat fresh fish at waterfront restaurants and enjoy the beaches and warm sea temperatures. Splash out on an indulgent stay at the mighty Anassa, a world-class luxury spa hotel.
Or visit the beautiful Troodos Mountains for UNESCO World Heritage treasures, hiking and wine tasting. Try Casale Panayiotis, a hotel complex of restored traditional village houses with a modern spa.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 29°C/21°C (84/70°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 0/2mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 22°C/72°F
- Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 25 mins
September is one of the best times of year to visit the Canary Islands. Here the normal rules of European weather in Autumn don’t apply as thanks to their position in the Atlantic, close to the Sahara, the islands enjoy sub-tropical temperatures. Summers are consistently warm and dry, winters are mild with more rainfall.
Lanzarote is the hottest of the Canaries in September with very little rain. You can swim in the sea, sunbathe on the wide black or white sand beaches, and eat outdoors in the warm evenings. The light is beautiful at this time of year too, perfect for photographers.
Despite the island’s reputation for sun n’ fun package holidays you can find boutique hotels, tranquil vistas and quieter sands away from the most popular east coast resorts.
View the volcanic other-worldly landscapes of the Timanfaya National Park. And explore the unique Lanzarote vineyards, where plants are dug deep into the earth with rocky windbreaks to protect them.
Lanzarote has a sense of style, thanks in most part to César Manrique. Born on the island in 1919 he became an international architect. Manrique found a way to honour the island’s landscapes in his designs and his vision from 50 years ago still holds good. Visit Mirador del Rio for panoramic views of the archipelago from Manrique’s Bond-style lookout point complete with oculus window. It has a coffee shop for good measure.
Also consider:
Gran Canaria
The Canary Islands are some of the hottest places in Europe in September and Gran Canaria offers lots of scope for beach fun as well as hiking, cultural exploring and even dolphin and whale watching.
Puglia, southern Italy
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 25°C/16°C (77/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 8/50.1mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 24°C/76°F
- Flying time from London UK to Bari: 2 hours 50 mins
Puglia, in the ‘heel’ of southern Italy, has coastlines on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, both a part of the wider Mediterranean. July and August are very busy months but in September Italians – who love Puglia! – are back to work and its shores are quieter. The region still experiences warm temperatures although there’s an increased chance of some rain as the month progresses.
You’ll find a mix of public and private beaches along the coast. September is low season for the Adriatic beach clubs, or stabilimenti, and prices will be lower too (though still not cheap!).
But the spectacular rocky coastline, sandy beaches and turquoise seas are only the beginning. From ancient white hill towns to Baroque cities, a vast national park, traditional trulli houses and yummy local food specialities, there’s lots to discover in Puglia.
There are plenty of itineraries you could follow for this wonderful region of Italy. As an example we flew from London to Bari in early September. After a couple of days exploring the historic port city we took the coastal train to the little seaside town of Monopoli. Here we got lost in the maze of ancient whitewashed streets, ate fresh seafood and bathed in the calm waters below the city walls.
From Monopoli it’s an easy hop by train to better-known but busier Polignano a Mare with its staggering clifftop views.
Also consider:
Sicily
This island at the toe of Italy has a heady combination of lovely beaches, ancient historical sites and wonderful food.
Sardinia
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 26°C/17°C (79°F/63°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 8/23mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 23°C/73°F
- Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 35 mins
Like other regions of Italy, the island of Sardinia is quieter in September than the preceding months of high season. But it still enjoys sunny weather and warm seas whilst prices are lower too.
Sardinia is famous for its beautiful beaches with ravishing stretches of sugar white sand and turquoise water. And this is the time of year to enjoy them with fewer crowds. Whether you yearn for wild expanses like the coastal nature reserve of Oasi Biderosa in the east, or prefer the luxe pleasures of Costa Smeralda, there’s a beach that’s right for you.
To the east of the island check out the little seaside town of Cala Gonone. It lies on the rugged coastline of the Gulf of Orosei, close to wonderful beaches and some of the best hiking on the island.
If you ever get bored of the beaches Sardinia has archaeological treasures to explore. Book a guided tour to help unlock the secrets of the ruins of the Roman city of Nora, built on an even older Nuraghic settlement. In the historic towns of Alghero and Cagliari you can savour local flavours at traditional restaurants. And autumn brings festivals and events that celebrate Sardinia’s cultural and food heritage. For beaches and exploring this is one of the best places to go in Europe in September.
Ibiza, Balearic islands
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 28°C/20°C (82/68°F)
- Average hours of sun: 10
- Average days of rain/mm: 8/30mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 25°C/77°F
- Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 30 mins
Things to do in Ibiza in September
Weather-wise this is the hottest of the Balearic islands in September. And although Ibiza’s nightlife is legendary there are other sides to Spain’s famous ‘white island’. And these become easier to explore as the island slows down and summer crowds dwindle at the end of the summer season.
Temperatures should be less hot and humid than the high summer months, and the sea is still warm.
This little island was settled by the Phoenicians in 8th century BC. Beloved by hippies, artists and free spirits in the 20th century, Ibiza has an intrinsic spiritual vibe alongside its culture and traditions.
Obviously you’ll want to go to the beach, so seek out quieter spots like Cala Llenya or Cala Xarraca with its natural mud baths. Head out on a hike or cultivate your inner zen at a wellness retreat or beach yoga session. Or take to the water to paddle board or scuba dive and see the prairies of UNESCO protected posidonia seagrass that helps keeps the seas around the island crystal clear.
Away from the vibrant nightlife you can explore Ibiza’s cultural heritage in Dalt Vila, the fortified old town and UNESCO World Heritage site in Ibiza’s capital. Explore the whitewashed villages and browse locally made handicrafts in hippy markets like the one at Punta Arabi. And try to catch a glimpse of the ‘ball pagès’ the traditional Ibizan folk dance which is still performed at local celebrations.
In the evening catch an iconic Ibizan sunset from the rocks of Punta Galera, or book a table on the terrace at Es Boldado above Cala d’Hort beach with dramatic views of the Es Vedrà islet.
Also consider: Mallorca
It’s the biggest of the Balearic Islands and the perfect place for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking in its beautiful mountainous interior.
Paxos Greece
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 28°C/16°C (82/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 6/75mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 24°C/76°F
- Flying time from London UK to Corfu: 3 hours 15 mins. Transfer to Paxos from 45 mins.
Pretty Paxos is one of the Ionian islands, beloved by the sailing fraternity, that lie west of mainland Greece. They may not be the hottest Greek islands in September but the weather, and the glittering turquoise seas, are still warm. They are a great choice if you’re looking for swimmable sea and sunny beaches without sweltering temperatures.
A green island, planted with no less than 300,000 olive trees, Paxos is charmingly under-developed. It doesn’t have direct flights, but it’s an easy transfer by hydrofoil or water taxi from Corfu. Paxos is a peaceful retreat, undisturbed by mass tourism, although you’re likely to spot a super yacht or two, quietly moored up in the hidden bays.
This is a small island with just three harbour villages. The joy here is in the olive-fringed pebbly beaches, the unspoilt waterside tavernas and the glorious Ionian seas that morph from brilliant turquoise to deepest azure. Hire a day boat to pootle along the east coast discovering little coves that can only be reached from the sea. Drive across the island, it’s only 2 miles wide, to the wilder west coast to see panoramic sunsets from Eremitis. Or follow a hiking trail, along goat paths and through olive groves, to discover sleepy hamlets and beautiful views.
And don’t forget to hop on the taxi boat at Gaios to dazzling little Antipaxos. Just 15 minutes away, it has sandy white beaches that give the Caribbean a run for its money.
Also consider:
Crete, Rhodes and Kos
Lying further south and east than the Ionians, these are the hottest Greek islands in September. The temperatures may in fact be too high for sightseeing or exploring in the middle of the day, but as a trade off rain is unlikely and the sea will be delightfully warm.
Turkey
- Average high and low temperatures in Kalkan in September: 29°C/15°C (84/59°F)
- Average hours of sun: 11
- Average days of rain/mm: 3/14mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 26°C/79°F
- Flying time from London UK to Dalaman: 4 hours 5 mins
Turkey’s southern Mediterranean coast is one of the warmest places in Europe in September. It stretches for 1000 miles from Izmir to Antalya and its clear sparkling waters have earned it the name of the Turquoise Coast.
You could choose to explore this rugged and beautiful coastline on a Blue Cruise route in a traditional wooden gulet. The trip takes several days, stopping off to swim, spot porpoises or explore ancient ruins.
Or take your pick from the tourist towns along the Antalya coast. Kalkan and Kas are a couple of the most popular in this Turkish Riviera region. Kas still retains some authentic character with an old town and flower-hung cobbled streets.
Kalkan is set on a hillside, bedecked with villas offering dazzling views. It has plenty of restaurants and bars and where it lacks in sandy stretches, beach clubs offer sunbeds and parasols on platforms above the sea. Or you can drive 20 mins west to the 11 mile protected stretch of Patara with its golden sands and dunes where loggerhead turtles nest. Here you’ll find water sports, restaurants and archeological sites too, which will all be more peaceful in September. Villas are popular around Kalkan, or try the Kalkan Regency hotel which gets great reviews.
Alentejo, Portugal
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 29°C/16°C (84/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm: 0/0mm
- Sea temperature in September: 18-21°C (64/70°F)
- Flying time from London UK to Faro: 2 hours 55 mins
Things to do in Alentejo in September
The province of Alentejo is the hottest place in Portugal in September. Its vast plains stretch from Lisbon in the north to the Algarve in the south punctuated by whitewashed towns, cork forests, vineyards and olive groves. It is also surprisingly undiscovered.
That may soon change. The historic capital of Alentejo, Évora, is scheduled to be the 2027 European Capital of Culture. And there’s plenty to see here from the dramatic ruins of its Roman temple to a megalithic stone circle that is 2000 years older than Stonehenge.
Alcácer do Sal is a good base to visit beaches and the interior. Or explore the cobbled streets of Monsaraz, a medieval hilltop town that’s largely car-free. This region is renowned for its clear night skies and it’s a certified Starlight Tourism destination. At the cutting edge observatory in the Dark Sky Alqueva Reserve visitors can take stargazing to the next level with expert knowledgeable guides.
The Alentejo’s cork oak trees produce 50% of the world’s cork and some are centuries old. You can take a jeep safari through a cork estate on the slopes of Serra D’Ossa to learn about this sustainable industry and perhaps combine your trip with a wine-tasting.
Alentejo is a key wine region in Portugal with many highly regarded wineries to discover. But history buffs and wine enthusiasts can also find wine here produced in clay amphoras, vinho de Talha, using techniques that date from Roman times.
The Alentejo has a dramatic Atlantic coastline with wild and beautiful beaches. Pretty Vila Nova de Milfontes is a seaside town where the Mira river meets the sea so it has more sheltered estuary sands too. Bear in mind though that the seas along this Atlantic coastline are likely to be cooler than Mediterranean waters in September.
Where is hot in September in Europe: Cities
Combine urban sophistication with some time at the beach. If you base yourself in a seaside city you have flexibility should the weather not be beach-perfect. Head to southern Europe for the best European cities to visit in September that combine sunshine, sand and centuries of culture.
Naples and Amalfi coast Italy
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 27°C/16°C (81/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 9/80mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 24°C/77°F
- Flying time from London UK to Naples: 2 hours 45 mins
Things to do in Naples Italy in September
I reckon Naples in southern Italy is an under-rated gem. Not only is it packed with history, character and culture but this city by the sea is the gateway to the Amalfi coastline. Whilst the high season crowds are diminishing you can still enjoy warm days and milder September temperatures though you can’t rule out some rain. I visited Naples in early September and the weather was lovely for sightseeing and swimming in the sea.
Naples is a fabulous base for any number of day trips. You can choose guided tours from the city or travel independently on the local trains, buses and ferries. Explore the beautiful coastal towns of Sorrento, Positano and Amalfi or get your history fix with easy journeys to the archeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum. And of course you can walk up to the summit of Mount Vesuvius, the volcano that laid waste to Pompeii and still broods above the city on the Bay of Naples.
From Naples you can hop easily to the picturesque islands of Ischia, Capri or Procida. Or take a day cruise along the magnificent Amalfi coastline, stopping off at pretty little towns and beating the traffic into the bargain.
On top of all this Naples is more budget-friendly than its more glamorous neighbours. Yes it is a working city rather than a tourist destination, and it is significantly more gritty and grime’y than Florence or Milan. But Naples will give you a taste of authentic southern Italy – quite literally in the case of its food which is delicious! For all these reasons I think it’s one of the best cities in Europe to visit in September for that combination of sun and sightseeing.
Almeria Spain
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 29°C/20°C (84/68°F)
- Average hours of sun: 9
- Average days of rain/mm: 4/10mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 23°C/73°F
- Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 45 mins.
On the southern Mediterranean coast of Andalucia lies Almeria, due east of Malaga and the tourist delights of the Costa del Sol. In fact the Costa de Almeria is even hotter and drier than its better-known neighbour. It’s a favourite of the Spanish themselves and less touristy than much of the southern Spanish coastline.
Almeria itself is an ancient trading port with an imposing Moorish fortress, the Alcazaba, second in size only to the Alhambra in Granada. It’s a working city with palm-fringed squares, museums and galleries plus a promenade by the sea and some great beaches too, within walking distance of the city centre.
September is a wonderful time to explore the natural beauty of this coastline. The Cabo de Gata-Nijar natural park is an expansive protected coastal region, around 30 minutes to the east of the city. Stretching 50 kms, the craggy volcanic coast is dotted with low-built whitewashed seaside villages, secluded coves and remote natural beaches with clear waters for swimming, snorkelling and diving. Alternatively, hiking and biking trails take in dramatic clifftop views and the mountainous, volcanic landscapes of the park.
As a bonus you can take a trip out to Europe’s only desert, the Tabernas. This unique badlands landscape has attracted many film directors and you can still visit the old movie sets where Sergio Leone shot The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and other spaghetti Westerns.
Also consider:
Barcelona
Buzzy Barcelona celebrates the La Mercè festival in September, whilst the weather is still warm and pleasant. With sea temperatures around 24°C/ 75°F you can cool off in the waves after a busy day of sightseeing too.
Rome Italy
- Average high and low temperatures in September: 27°C/16°C (81/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 6/42mm
- Sea temperature in Sept: 24°C/75°F
- Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 30 mins
I realise that calling Rome a seaside city is a bit of a stretch. Although the beach town of Santa Marinella is only 45 minutes away by train and the sands are just a short walk from the railway station.
But beaches aside, September is one of the best months for sightseeing in the Eternal City. Its many splendid outdoor sights, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi Fountain, beg to be enjoyed in fine weather. Whilst in September you’ll dodge much of the extreme heat, the crowds and the highest prices of peak season. Plus it will still be warm enough to eat outside and enjoy some Italian dolce vita in the September sunshine.
In recent years temperatures have been higher than average in Rome in September, but you can also expect a few showers this month. It will be busy too, so book ahead for accommodation and Rome must-see tickets.
Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
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About the author Nancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.
All photos are all rights reserved. Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission
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