In September, the summer crowds of tourists in Europe subside, and the temperature begins to drop slightly.
Although summer is still in full swing, it’s the perfect time to plan your travels for early autumn. Moreover, many experienced travelers consider September to be a more ideal time for vacations, as there are fewer crowds and hellish heat.
Experts from the world’s largest travel publisher, Lonely Planet, have selected six European destinations that are perfect for a vacation in the first month of autumn.
“In September, the summer crowds of tourists in Europe subside, and the temperature begins to drop slightly. This makes it an ideal time to explore everything the continent has to offer, from cozy English villages to sparkling Turkish coastlines,” the authors of the ranking note.
The 6 Best European Destinations to Visit in September 2025
- The Cotswolds, UK is the perfect place to explore idyllic English villages in the early autumn sun.
- Istria, Croatia is the best place for a culinary and cultural cycling trip.
- La Palma, Spain is the best place to enjoy hiking in green valleys and volcanic calderas.
- Bologna, Italy – it’s time to indulge in one of the most “delicious” cities in Italy.
- The Turquoise Coast, Turkey is the best place to sail the Aegean or Mediterranean Sea aboard a traditional gullet.
- Transylvania, Romania is the best place to explore the castles of Transylvania on the “best road in the world”.