Europe in September: Best Time to Visit & Where to Go

The crowds have gone home, and that stifling summer heat has started to die down. In the evenings, you sit outside, putting on a light jacket to enjoy the cool breeze. The nights are just a little bit longer, and as the calming atmosphere of autumn starts to settle in, the leaves start to change colour. This is Europe in September. 

With the sun still shining bright in some countries and crisp air in other parts, September offers something for everyone. This is why Expat Explore believes that September is one of the best times of year to visit Europe. Read on to find out everything you need to know about September travel in Europe!

Why is September one of the best times to visit Europe?

While summer is the most popular time of the year to travel Europe (and for good reason), September has a special charm which is well worth exploring. Summer means sun-soaked days and plenty of festivities, but it also means high prices, scorching temperatures and overcrowded hotspots. September’s weather is usually still warm but without those dizzying high temperatures of summer. Plus, with kids back at school, many of the chaotic crowds have died down. 

But that’s not all! September has even more to offer. The beaches are calm and uncrowded, yet the waters are still warm enough for a swim. It’s also the start of the autumn harvest, bringing an abundance of fresh seasonal flavours to enjoy. And if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a lively local festival or two!

Related: Discover the best destinations for an Autumn break.

Top places to visit in Europe in September

Paris, France

It’s true that Paris is always a good idea, but there is just something about September that makes the “City of Lights” shine. Enjoying a croissant at an open-air café with sunny skies and a light breeze is a dream. Fewer tourists also means it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s iconic museums, shop til you drop and take a leisurely stroll along the Seine. 

Related: This is the ultimate budget guide for Paris.

Lucerne, Switzerland

September is the sweet spot in Switzerland, right after the busy summer and just before the icy autumn days set in. Lucerne is one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities any time of year, but in September, you can look forward to clear, crisp air and excellent mountain visibility. Take a scenic lake cruise and soak up the local vibe. You might even get to experience an outdoor concert or harvest festival!

Barcelona, Spain

Strike up the perfect balance in Barcelona! Lively but not too crowded and warm and sunny but not sweltering, Barcelona is bursting with things to do in September. This is when the Mediterranean is at its warmest, so be sure to take advantage of Barcelona’s beaches. In late September, Barcelona also hosts its biggest festival, La Mercè. Expect fireworks, parades, live music and even human towers!

Related: Don’t miss out on Spain’s best annual events.

Vienna, Austria

Austria’s capital is pure magic in September. As one of Europe’s cultural capitals and the classical music capital of the world, Vienna is renowned for its artistic delights. September is when the city’s festival season really kicks off. From opera to food and wine festivals, the city is alive with activity. Don’t miss out on Vienna Wine Hiking Day, where locals and visitors hike (and sip) through the vineyards around the city.

Tuscany, Italy

What better time of the year to visit one of Italy’s most celebrated food and wine regions than during its harvest season? September in Tuscany is when local products like grapes, olives, chestnuts and truffles find their way into regional markets and dishes. Cities like Florence, Siena and Pisa offer a slower pace at which to experience iconic landmarks and artistic masterpieces. Food and wine festivals abound, and the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside emit an irresistible golden hue. 

Related: Try these Italian phrases on your next trip to Italy.

Rhine Valley, Germany

Another spectacular wine region to add to your September bucket list is Germany’s Rhine Valley. Hop aboard a river cruise and watch as storybook castles and lush vineyards pass you by. This is the best time to sample some of the region’s most renowned varietals, such as Riesling, as it’s right in the middle of harvest season. You could even participate in a Weinfest (wine festival).

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is beautiful in every season, but September is an underrated time to visit this ever-popular city. Known as the “City of Spas”, Budapest’s thermal baths are one of the main draws of the city. When temperatures start to drop, this is the perfect time to take a dip in these healing waters. Hungarian food is delicious and hearty, making it the ideal cuisine to warm up on a cooler night. However, the days are still warm enough to explore top sights and charming streets on foot. 

Related: Here are 7 more reasons to visit Budapest!

What to pack for Europe in September

Weather can vary greatly in different parts of Europe in September. Southern Europe (Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece) could still have highs of 24℃, while Northern Europe (Scandinavia, the Baltics, and the UK and Ireland) could have lows of 14℃! Wherever you’re travelling, you can expect a notable difference between temperatures during the day and evening. That’s why layers are your best friend!

Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll want to wander about and make the most of the good weather during the daytime. Bring a few t-shirts, a light jacket or sweater for the evenings and jeans, shorts or a dress if it’s going to be warmer. Perhaps even swimwear if you’ll be beachside. 

A rain jacket is also a good idea, as September weather can be rather unpredictable. A light scarf, cap, umbrella and sunglasses are always handy accessories while sunscreen is absolutely essential!

How to visit multiple European cities in September

Easy! Book a tour with Expat Explore. We have a range of multi-country Europe tours that depart in September, allowing you to tick iconic landmarks, scenic sights and hidden gems across multiple destinations off your bucket list. 

To explore Paris, Lucerne, Tuscany, Budapest, Vienna, and much more over 22 days, our Best of Europe tour showcases some of Europe’s most spectacular cities and sights. 

If 18 days across Paris, Barcelona, Tuscany, the Swiss Alps, the Rhine Valley and beyond sounds like a dream come true, book our Europe Explorer tour!

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September is truly one of the best times to travel in Europe! Browse our tours and start planning your early autumn adventure now.