August 16, 2025, 5:48 am | Read time: 9 minutes
Late summer offers optimal conditions for a last chance at a beach vacation without having to travel far for guaranteed good weather. If you’d rather escape the heat and be active during a late summer vacation, a trip to the mountains might be ideal. We’ve found the perfect destinations for city trips, including insider tips for the perfect September vacation.
Overview
Three Destinations for a Beach Vacation in September
Agadir
Dry air and the strong waves of the Atlantic—the Moroccan coastal city of Agadir is perfect for a vacation in September. With temperatures around 86 degrees Fahrenheit, swimming fun is guaranteed even in late summer. In recent years, tourism in the city has grown significantly, making Agadir one of Morocco’s most famous beach resorts. If you want a Moroccan vibe for your beach vacation, a stay in a riad is ideal. Otherwise, you can opt for one of the many club hotels, as the options are plentiful. Our tip: The nearby fishing village of Taghazout is an absolute surfing paradise, offers a bit more tranquility than Agadir, and is perfect for a day trip. In the evenings, live music is often played on the terraces of the small restaurants right by the water. From Agadir’s taxi station, the “Batoire,” shared taxis head to the fishing village every few minutes for a small fee.
Gallipoli
Crystal-clear water and a charming, typically Italian old town—Gallipoli means “beautiful city” and lives up to its name. Gallipoli is located on the heel of the Italian boot and is one of the oldest cities in the Apulia region. The entire old town of Gallipoli resembles a fortress, as it is situated on an island accessible only by a bridge. For centuries, Gallipoli was protected from invaders this way. The southern Italian city offers the perfect mix for those who want to see and experience a lot on vacation. From culture to art and history to really good cuisine, Gallipoli has a lot to offer. Long beach days are also possible with temperatures of up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit during a September vacation. Our tip: The Punta della Suina beach is beautiful, located south of Gallipoli, and always worth a visit.
Côte d’Azur
French charm, clear water, quiet bays, and lively hotspots—the Côte d’Azur leaves nothing to be desired. It stretches over 75 miles along the southern coast of France and is home to more than 150 beaches, each more beautiful than the last. Due to its location, the Côte d’Azur still offers summer temperatures of up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit in late summer and invites you to enjoy all the beautiful beaches during a September vacation. Long beach days can be wonderfully rounded off not only at the famous hotspots of the Côte d’Azur but also in the many charming coastal villages. How about the coastal town of Roquebrune-Cap-Martin near Monaco? Our tip: The beach La Plage de Calanque des Anglais is located in Saint-Raphael and is almost still an insider tip, so don’t miss it!
Three Destinations for a City Trip in September
London
The sparkling waters of the Thames, many parks, and even more culture—London is the ultimate destination for a city trip. Due to the pleasant weather, a visit during a September vacation is particularly suitable, as it is one of the best months to discover London. The sunny, warm days and temperatures of up to 68 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for day trips and exploring landmarks. Since school holidays are over in September, the number of tourists also decreases significantly this month. Our tip: In September, the “Totally Thames Festival” takes place on the riverbank and on the Thames itself. Throughout the month, there are environmental activities, river races, and art exhibitions.
Venice
With temperatures of up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, the city can be thoroughly enjoyed during a September vacation, and a beach visit is still quite possible. Additionally, this month is considered the off-season in Venice, so there are no large crowds in the usually overcrowded city. Our tip: The Regata Storica takes place on the first Sunday of September and is a historic boat race with a long tradition. The term “regatta” originates from its name. The event takes place on the Grand Canal, accompanied by colorful parades and a great atmosphere. Definitely a highlight!
Istanbul
Narrow alleys, charming cafes, and historic architecture—Istanbul is a very special city and invites you to dream. The Turkish metropolis forms the border between Asia and Europe and is thus the only city in the world located on two continents. Due to the pleasant temperatures of up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit and the end of the peak season, September is the best month for a vacation in Istanbul. The streets of the city are full of life, with good food, lots of live music, and handicrafts at every corner. Istanbul knows the beautiful sides of life like no other city, breathes culture, and lets everyone partake in it. Our tip: Soğuk Baklava. This sweet treat is a local specialty, prepared differently from classic baklava with milk, and tastes incredibly good.
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Three Destinations for an Active Vacation in September
Saimaa Lake District
Deep forests, lots of tranquility, and even more water—the largest lake district in the country stretches around Savonlinna in eastern Finland. Here, there is room for peace and relaxation as well as many opportunities to be physically active on vacation. With autumn temperatures of up to 59 degrees Fahrenheit, no one breaks a sweat too easily. Canoeing is especially popular here. The Saimaa Lake, with 1,687 square miles, is Finland’s largest lake and forms a huge labyrinth of water through its connection with other lakes. Our tip: With a bit of luck, you can spot the extremely rare ringed seal sunbathing in the Saimaa Lake District.
Also interesting: Why the Saimaa Lake District Is One of the Best Insider Tips in Europe
Mittenwald
The impressive Alpine landscape, green meadows, and a picturesque village—the town of Mittenwald is gently nestled in the mountain range and offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks like the Wetterstein and the Karwendel group. September is particularly suitable with temperatures of up to 68 degrees Fahrenheit to get really active. And the offerings are vast: The area invites outdoor activities such as leisurely walks, hiking, cycling, and canoe tours. Our tip: At the end of the month, the famous Almabtrieb with a village festival takes place in the neighboring Krün. Local clubs and restaurants provide traditional delicacies along the route of the Almabtrieb for your culinary delight. Additionally, the market stalls of regional farms invite you to stroll and sample.
Switzerland
With temperatures of up to 68 degrees Fahrenheit, a vacation in September is ideal for getting active in Switzerland. From mountain hikes and canoe tours to bike tours and water sports, the possibilities are endless. For the latter, lakes such as Lake Geneva, Lake Zurich, or Lake Lucerne are suitable. Here, boat trips can be undertaken, and the weather in September in Switzerland is still warm enough for swimming. Our tip: In Switzerland, what seems impossible to many is possible, namely, a summer vacation at the lakes and summer skiing in the mountains. For this, the Glacier 3000 ski area and the Zermatt ski area are options in Switzerland.
Three Insider Tips for a September Vacation
Georgia
Breathtaking nature, rich culture, and the sea at your doorstep—Georgia is diverse and an absolute insider tip. If you choose Georgia as a travel destination, you naturally want good weather and not to encounter many tourists. Therefore, a vacation in September is particularly suitable! Depending on the region, temperatures can still reach up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. These are best enjoyed at the two top beach resorts, Batumi and Kobuleti. Additionally, the capital Tbilisi is always worth a visit and is also excellent for hiking and biking tours. There are countless sights to discover, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site Jvari, a monastery from the 6th century, and the Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. Our tip: A great destination is also the vineyards of Kakheti. Georgian wine is known and loved beyond the country’s borders.
Skopelos
White houses along the coast, green forests, and blue water—the island of Greece is a little film star and may still be unknown to most. Seen in the film Mamma Mia and on the cinema screens of the world, Skopelos is still a real insider tip. The small island has a lot to offer. In addition to lush vegetation, there are many picturesque villages, great taverns, and breathtaking beaches. With a bit of luck, temperatures in September climb to up to 86 degrees Fahrenheit, warm enough to swim in the sea, for sure. In September, due to the off-season, prices are not quite as high. Our tip: Some of the most beautiful beaches include Panormos Beach, Milia Beach, and Kastani Beach. The latter is seen in Mamma Mia!
Menorca
Untouched nature, hidden coves, and crystal-clear water—Menorca is the perfect destination for a September vacation and a real insider tip. The weather on the northernmost Balearic island is then perfect, with temperatures up to 84 degrees Fahrenheit, to enjoy the late summer to the fullest, and the beaches are less crowded. The entire island has been declared a biosphere reserve, with nearly half under nature protection. This has preserved Menorca from excessive development and mass tourism. Especially for people who love nature and want to go hiking, the island is an ideal travel destination. Our tip: A hike up Monte Toro, as the view from the top is breathtaking and rewards all previous efforts.