The carefree days of summer have drawn to a close, yet September presents a novel opportunity for fresh adventures. This month marks the start of a new chapter, much like January, with prospects for exploration and growth. South America is in full bloom at this time, with more than just the eye-catching jacaranda trees on display. The continent offers thriving culinary, design, and arts scenes from the stylish streets of Buenos Aires to the Andes mountains in Peru. For those seeking one last boost of vitamin D before winter arrives, consider the tropical islands of the Caribbean and surrounding regions. During the shoulder season, one can enjoy the warm weather and white sand beaches in relative solitude. Europe too possesses hidden gems at this time, with the Mediterranean climate lingering further south or east. Best of all, even the most luxurious destinations can be experienced sustainably. Browse the following suggestions for inspiration on where to journey in September.
Tuscany, Italy
Temperature in September: 27℃ high; 17℃ low
Season: summer
The month of September brings a gentle pre-fall breeze through the beautiful Italian landscapes, providing welcome relief after the intense heat of summer. While still warm enough to lounge by the pool and enjoy open-air meals on the grounds of historic villas and grand hotels, the cooling temperatures allow those seeking adventure, hikers, and culture enthusiasts to start exploring. Public transportation like busses and trains do run through the region, but renting a car provides the most reliable means of accessing the historic cities, towns, and villages scattered throughout. Motorists can take in sites like the museums and lasting influence of the Medici family visible throughout Florence, the capital of Tuscany, or be immersed in the fairytale scenes of San Gimignano and elsewhere. The easing temperatures of September make it an ideal time to immerse oneself in the rich cultural experiences and natural beauty the area has to offer.
Where to stay
Tuscany is an ideal destination for intergenerational escapes, so round up the family and secure a dreamy villa through Haute Retreats. For a romantic trip far from the city heat, Villa Pesa or Villa Busini.
I Busini | Tuscan villa | Haute Retreats
Lisbon, Portugal
Temperature in September: 26°C high; 17°C low
Season: autumn
It is no mystery as to why Lisbon has become so popular in recent times. What is there not to like about this city? Afternoons provide the perfect opportunity to climb its seven iconic hills in search of the best vantage points, where poetic views of colorful houses and red rooftops can be found. As the sun begins to set, one should venture to Lisbon’s finest restaurants to enjoy incredibly fresh seafood freshly caught in the waters nearby. When night falls, those seeking lively atmosphere make a beeline for Bairro Alto. Thanks to lenient open container laws, the central district transforms into one big party – join in and drink well into the early morning hours. The month of September offers amazing weather with average highs of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and you’ll have much of the city to yourself as most have returned to their studies.
Santorini, Greece
Temperature in September: 26°C high; 20°C low
Season: autumn
If you were to ask a local resident of the Greek island of Santorini their favorite time on the island, many would say September. The scorching heat and bustling crowds of high summer have dissipated, allowing one to truly experience the beauty of the island. The sea, still warm from the summer sun, invites swimmers and sailors. However, the evenings take on a milder tone with cooler breezes drifting through the cliffside towns and their winding steps. During this season of transition from summer to fall, the legendary sunsets of Santorini dazzle in magnificent fashion. In the town of Oia, the fading daylight transforms the white buildings into shades of gold. Meanwhile, the deep blues of the caldera appear even more vibrant and dramatic. It is a time when one can embrace both the lingering warmth of summer and the arrival of the freshness of the new season.
New York, United States
Temperature in September: 25°C high; 16°C low
Season: autumn
In the splendor of all its awe, September 2024 is an ideal month to visit New York City. Mild weather is enhanced by a crispness that invites visitors to explore the streets and parks in this vibrant city. The cultural calendar at this time of year is chock full of excitement from such events as the prestigious New York Film Festival to the lively Feast of San Gennaro. The summer crowds will have dwindled away, and you can dive deep into the city’s unique charm, discovering Broadway’s new hits, getting a glimpse of early autumn colors on trees and experiencing live sports. Onlookers at New York Fashion Week are greeted by fashion enthusiasts with joy while street fairs bring forth local flavors and treasures. Catching on this celestial moment will enable you relish NYC—where every instant may become a lifelong story to recall.
Ibiza and Mallorca, Spain
Temperature in September: 27°C high; 19°C low
Season: autumn
As the sweltering summer months come to a close in September, the carefree souls who spend their days soaking up the sun and sounds of Ibiza and Mallorca can finally breathe a sigh of relief. The crowds begin to thin, making it much easier to find a spot along the sand to set up camp once more. Beachside restaurants that were booked solid for lunch now have open tables available without any planning ahead. While temperatures remain warm, the energy shifts to the climactic dance parties of the season wrapping up. Accommodations like hotels and villas also become significantly more budget-friendly during this transitional time, though pocketbooks may still take a hit from frequent beverages. The most sustainable way to experience all the natural beauty these White Isle gems have to offer is to embrace what the land provides. For instance, La Granja is a stylish inland farm that serves dishes made from ingredients grown on their biodynamic grounds, and supports organic producers across Ibiza through conservation efforts. And for those who come to soak up the seaside scenery, renting a solar-powered yacht from La Bella Verde allows one to explore the quieter stretches of coastline in an eco-friendly fashion.
Where to stay:
Those seeking a more private accommodation have options such as luxurious villas dotted across Ibiza and neighboring Mallorca. Private pools, outdoor living spaces and proximity to the coast make these residences an attractive alternative to hotels. Whether preferring a hotel, villa or something in between, there are certainly serene getaways to be found throughout this Balearic beauty.
Ibiza Villas by Haute Retreats
Malibu, California
Temperature in September: 30°C high; 19°C low
Season: autumn
One of the most ideal times to visit Malibu is September 2024 when the coastal paradise offers its best allure. Being used to warm and good weather, with clear skies and less summer heat, it’s perfect for enjoying beautiful Malibu beaches and outdoor activities. The ocean remains inviting for swimming, surfing and water sports while the crowds have thinned out allowing for a more serene experience. September also brings with it many local events and festivals that mark everything from wine and food to music and art. Besides this, all scenic coastal walks can be easily reached including breathtaking sunsets as well as other natural beauties of the area making it a great time for exploration or rest. Thus, with its combination of perfect climatic conditions, fewer tourist numbers as well as active local life happening in various parts of the city throughout every day of September make choosing Malibu during this month an unparalleled refreshing break.
