As one of the most favourite months of the year rolls in, travellers everywhere will be gearing up to take advantage of cooler weather, better flight routes, and a more relaxed state of mind in localities. Here, Wise Traveller takes a look at the best destinations and festivals to revel in this September:
Asia
With bad weather, such as monsoons, threatening a decent holiday, one of the few destinations to hit is Borneo. It's an excellent option as the hot and dry weather remains abundant, and hotel prices drop later in the month. To avoid the wet weather, look at the northern state of Sabah for your best chances of beaches, local culture and fascinating wildlife.
Africa & Middle East
For savvy travellers, Morocco is always a big draw, and once temperatures cool in September, bustling Marrakesh and Tangier are worth the experience alone. Visitors will find their days filled with markets, beaches and historic buildings.
Europe
September is one of the best months to visit European nations as the crowds have dispersed, everyone is back at work, the kids are at school, and yet, there is still enough sun for a decent holiday to enjoy. Whether it's dipping toes on the Mediterranean Coast, hitting Croatia for a beach break, or getting swept up in the capitals of Paris, Barcelona and Lisbon, there are numerous choices to explore.
If you want to move further afield, then the Greek islands of Corfu, Santorini, Rhodes and even Cyprus and Malta offer endless sunshine and hours of exploration.
North & South America
September is the perfect time of year to complete a California road trip, taking advantage of the cooler weather in LA and the sun in San Francisco. It offers a more peaceful experience and cheaper accommodation before the trails close for the winter months. If driving up the coast, allow plenty of time for exploring San Francisco, as the fog lifts to herald several interesting events, including the International Dragon Boat Festival and Ghirardelli Chocolate Festival.
New Zealand
Head to New Zealand's South Island to welcome in the blanket of spring wild flowers that coat the island. The fringe season is perfect to visit if you enjoy winter sports, and one of the best months for encountering some of the most endearing animals that live on and around New Zealand's shores, including large gatherings of the yellow-eyed penguin and excellent whale-watching opportunities.
Festivals
Oktoberfest, Germany
The world's biggest beer festival in Germany is celebrated in Munich. As much as the liquid flows during the 18-day late September festival, there are other cultural events to enjoy, all celebrating the Bavarian culture.
Ganesh Chaturthi, India
A Hindu festival that marks the birth of Lord Ganesha, the god of wisdom, prosperity, and remover of obstacles. The 10-day festival culminates with Visarjan, a symbolic washing as the Lord's journey cleanses the misfortunes of devotees. Based on the lunar calendar, events can extend into late September.
Hermanus Whale Festival, South Africa
If you're in Hermanus late September, you could be in for a treat. You might catch the annual Whale Watching Festival. Late September is a date to remember, not just because of the fun and entertainment, but also because it marks the yearly migration of the southern right whales to the coastal waters of Hermanus.
La Mercè, Spain
As one of Barcelona's largest street parties, celebrating the city's patron saint, the Virgin of Mercy, expect thousands of visitors to descend on the city. The festival highlights Catalan culture with many events and concerts.
More festivals to enjoy:
Draaimolen Festival: (Tilburg, Netherlands) September 5-6, 2025.
Lief festival: (Utrecht, Netherlands) September 6, 2025.
Snow Machine Festival: (Queenstown, New Zealand) September 9-14, 2025.
Zamna Las Vegas: (Las Vegas, NV, USA) September 11-14, 2025.
Madeira Wine Festival: (Funchal, Madeira) Till September 13, 2025.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist who writes about global travel news, airlines, airports, and business. His work has appeared globally on the BBC, and in many national newspapers and magazines.
