As the summer season starts to wane, September offers a delightful window for travelers seeking the perfect getaway. The weather remains inviting, tourist crowds thin out, and many destinations offer more affordable prices. For those in the UK, the convenience of a short flight adds to the allure. In this guide, we’ll unveil a selection of destinations that promise an exceptional September escape.
Why September is an Ideal Month for Travel
September is a golden month for travel, often dubbed the “shoulder season.” Here’s why:
- Perfect Weather: September offers the best of both worlds, with lingering summer warmth and fewer scorching days.
- Quieter Destinations: As schools begin and the summer rush subsides, many destinations become less crowded.
- Budget-Friendly: Post-peak season often means more budget-friendly deals on flights and accommodations.
Best holiday destinations in September and less than a four hour flight from the London, UK:
Dublin, Ireland:Â
Just a short flight away, Dublin offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and friendly locals. Explore its historic sites, museums, and lively pubs.
Highlights: Trinity College, Temple Bar, Guinness Storehouse, St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 17°C (63°F), Lows around 10°C (50°F).
Amsterdam, Netherlands:Â
Enjoy the picturesque canals, museums, and charming neighbourhoods of Amsterdam. September offers mild weather and fewer crowds.
Highlights: Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Canal Cruises.
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 18°C (64°F), Lows around 11°C (52°F).
Paris, France:Â
The City of Light is magical year-round. September’s pleasant weather is perfect for strolling along the Seine, visiting iconic landmarks, and savouring French cuisine.
Highlights: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre.
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 15 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 20°C (68°F), Lows around 11°C (52°F).
Barcelona, Spain:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 2 hours.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 25°C (77°F), Lows around 19°C (66°F).
Lisbon, Portugal:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 2 hours 40 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 28°C (82°F), Lows around 18°C (64°F).
Edinburgh, Scotland:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 15°C (59°F), Lows around 8°C (46°F).
Nice, France:Â
The French Riviera offers lovely weather in September. Relax on the beaches, visit nearby towns, and explore the beautiful coastal landscapes.
Highlights: Promenade des Anglais, Old Town, Castle Hill, Musée Matisse.
Flight Time: Approx. 2 hours.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 23°C (73°F), Lows around 16°C (61°F).
Copenhagen, Denmark:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 18°C (64°F), Lows around 10°C (50°F).
Prague, Czech Republic:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 18°C (64°F), Lows around 10°C (50°F).
Brussels, Belgium:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 10 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 18°C (64°F), Lows around 11°C (52°F).
Zurich, Switzerland:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 18°C (64°F), Lows around 10°C (50°F).
Rome, Italy:Â
Flight Time: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes.
Average Weather Temps in September: Highs around 27°C (81°F), Lows around 17°C (63°F).
Travel Tips for a September Getaway
When planning your September escape, consider these tips:
- Book in Advance: September is still a popular time to travel, so secure your flights and accommodations early.
- Packing: Pack layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Festivals and Events: Check local event calendars for festivals and events to enhance your experience.
Other Destinations Further Than 4 Hours Flight Time From London That Are Great September Holiday Destinations
Bali, Indonesia: Experience the cultural richness, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes of Bali. September offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring temples, rice terraces, and enjoying water sports.
Santorini, Greece: This picturesque Greek island is known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and crystal-clear waters. September brings pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
Kyoto, Japan: Discover the ancient traditions and historic beauty of Kyoto. September’s mild weather is perfect for exploring temples, gardens, and experiencing the city’s rich cultural heritage.
New York City, USA: September is a great time to visit the Big Apple. The weather is comfortable, and you can enjoy events like Fashion Week, the US Open, and the start of the fall theater season.
Cape Town, South Africa: Springtime in Cape Town means blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. Explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, visit Table Mountain, and take a scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula.
Dubrovnik, Croatia: This charming coastal city on the Adriatic Sea is known for its historic walls and stunning architecture. September offers pleasant weather for exploring the old town and nearby islands.
Istanbul, Turkey: Dive into the rich history and cultural heritage of Istanbul. September provides milder temperatures, perfect for exploring landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
Prague, Czech Republic: Enjoy the fairytale charm of Prague in September when the weather is comfortable. Explore the historic Old Town, Prague Castle, and sample delicious Czech cuisine.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Experience the Scandinavian charm of Copenhagen. September brings crisp weather, ideal for cycling through the city, visiting the Tivoli Gardens, and indulging in Danish pastries.
Dubai, UAE: Dubai’s luxury and modernity are best experienced in the cooler temperatures of September. Explore iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, enjoy shopping in upscale malls, and relax on pristine beaches.
Marrakech, Morocco: Discover the vibrant colors and flavors of Marrakech in September. The weather is more comfortable for exploring the medina, haggling in the souks, and enjoying Moroccan cuisine.
Cusco, Peru: September is a great time to visit Cusco and explore the wonders of Machu Picchu. The dry season offers clear skies and comfortable trekking conditions.
Sydney, Australia: Spring blooms in Sydney in September. Enjoy the famous Sydney Opera House, relax on Bondi Beach, and witness the beginning of the whale-watching season.
Amman, Jordan: Explore the historical treasures of Amman and nearby Petra. September’s weather is milder, making it suitable for exploring ancient ruins and desert landscapes.
Havana, Cuba: Experience the vibrant culture of Havana. September offers fewer tourists, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s music, art, and historic architecture.
These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences and are perfect for a memorable September holiday, although they require longer flights from London.
Best holiday destinations in September and less than a four hour flight from the UK Summary
Choosing a September holiday with a short flight from the UK offers the perfect opportunity for a quick and delightful escape. The combination of pleasant weather, reduced crowds, and affordable prices creates an ideal setting for creating unforgettable memories. Whether you’re savoring the Mediterranean in Barcelona or exploring the charming streets of Amsterdam, September travel is sure to leave you with lasting impressions.
Jake is an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for both travel and adventure. Jake seeks new cultures and experiences whilst travelling with his young family and trying keeping on budget.
