Where's hot in September?

Soar off to these sunny September destinations.

Want to switch up your holiday game? Here’s our top travel secret – book your break in September, and you’ll never look back. Why? The sun’s still shining (tan top-up, anyone?), the kids are back at school (hello, quieter resorts), and you can usually bag a bargain in places like Greece, Spain or Morocco.

Read about where’s hot in September, then browse our September holiday deals.

Costa del Sol, Spain

You don’t have to fly far to get a dose of vitamin D in September. Sitting on Spain’s southern coast, just under a three-hour flight from the UK, the Costa del Sol really lives up to being the ‘sunshine coast’. Head here at the end of summer, and you’ll find the temps toasty enough to lounge patio or poolside. Beach more your scene? They're a big deal here, even in September. Benalmadena has about a dozen in-demand spots. The best (we think, anyway) is the Blue Flag Santa Ana Beach, backed by a marina full of fancy eateries and stylish shops. Sold on the Costa del Sol? The adults-only MedPlaya Hotel Riviera is a swanky place to stay with its state-of-the-art wellness centre and beachside postcode.

Average September temperature: 23°C Average September rainfall: 15mm Average September sunshine: 8 hours

Check our our Costa del Sol holidays.

Santorini, Greece

Soar off to Santorini in September, and you’ll find tasty plates and plenty of places to sit down and dine, no problem. The weather report’s looking good, too – the mercury’s hitting the mid-to-high 20s, so you’ll need to pack your suncream and sunglasses. If you’re here for history, September’s the perfect time to have this piece of Greece (nearly) all to yourself. Stop by the white-washed Castle of St Nicholas or the blue-domed village of Megalochori, and you won’t have to crop out the crowds in your Santorini snaps – success! Just the two of you taking off? Make tracks for the super sleek TUI BLUE Meltemi, where midday cocktails on sunken sunloungers are the order of the day – it’s five o’clock somewhere.

Average September temperature: 24°C Average September rainfall: 11mm Average September sunshine hours: 11 hours

Check out our holidays to Santorini

Sardinia, Italy

Nowhere does a September serotonin boost quite like Sardinia. The temperature hits 23°C, there’s plenty of gelato and cannoli to go around, and the go-slow pace of things flows like the island’s breeze – bliss. Scalloped in sandy coves, Olbia’s well worth a visit. Mosey over here for untapped beaches, scarlet sunsets and snaking vineyards carved into the hillside – all without the summer crowds cramping your style. Want a pad that’s just as peaceful? Pitch up at TUI BLUE Matta Village, where à la carte dining and spa sessions take priority.

Average September temperature: 23°C Average September rainfall: 24mm Average September sunshine: 8 hours

Check out our holidays to Sardinia

Lisbon, Portugal

Sunny city sights more your bag? We hear you. Forget September’s fickle forecasts at home – Lisbon’s temps are topping 23°C by the time the school bell rings. Set against a backdrop of seven hills, this cultural and colourful capital boasts tucked-away treasures (like the Elevador de Santa Justa, a centuries-old iron lift that connects two popular neighbourhoods), twisting alleyways and terracotta-tile roofs. Hungry? Lisbon’s a favourite with foodies. From caldo verde (a pork and green vegetable soup) to pasta del nata (a must-try custard tart), delicious dishes are never in short supply. Head downhill into Alfama, where steep streets lead you on a tour of tradition. Spend an afternoon in its pretty plazas, and you’ll hear soulful Fado – a genre of music that nods to Lisbon’s past.

Average September temperature: 23°C Average September rainfall: 15mm Average September sunshine: 9 hours

Check out our holidays to L isbon.

Marrakech, Morrocco

Factor 50 on standby… Morocco sizzles in sunshine year-round, and September is no different – expect a balmy 27°C most days. But it’s more than just a sunny destination for stretching out poolside. Historic Marrakech is a mix of maroon marketplaces, saffron spices and deep blue doorways. Keen to soak up more? The city’s maze-like streets guide your feet past ornate courtyards and oasis-like gardens – how’s that for a September holiday, huh? Oh, and if you’re looking for a place to call home for a week (or two!), you can’t go wrong with the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens – it’s right in the heart of this bustling city.

Average September temperature: 27°C Average September rainfall: 6mm Average September sunshine: 9 hours

Check out our holidays to Ma rrakech.

Ready to turn up the heat?

Have a look at the best September breaks to secure your sunny getaway. Plus, read where's hot in October, where's hot in November and where’s hot in December for the ultimate guide to winter’s sunny spots.

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Author: Laura Wilkinson

Last updated: 05.09.2024