Where is hot in September? 11 sun-drenched destinations to have on your radar
Aaah – September. The month when summer starts to wane and an autumn chill starts to permeate the air. Before you pack up all your summer tops and sandals for the inevitable arrival of fall, why not give those bad boys one last spin with a sunny September getaway? Read on below to find out where exactly is hot in September.
Mediterranean destinations like Greece, Croatia, Italy, Portugal, Cyprus, and Spain still offer plenty of sunshine in September and are just quick, short haul flights away. The gorgeous European cities of Lisbon, Dubrovnik and Barcelona are great city breaks full of history, culture, excellent wines and delicious food – while eternally warm places like the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands offer year-round sunshine.
If you want to venture further, then long haul destinations like the USA, Bali, Costa Rica, Morocco, Egypt, Thailand and the Caribbean offer plenty of sunshine, too. Already picturing yourself on horseback in Turks and Caicos or blissfully drinking a glass of Greek wine in a Taverna in Rhodes, surfing in Brisbane, sky diving in Queensland or maybe even shopping in New York City? Then check out our guide of the best destinations for a September holiday to remember.
We’ve curated the warmest destinations from around the globe and picked the very best luxury hotels, family-friendly resorts, boutique hotels, holiday deals and budget-friendly Airbnbs in each one – so you can end summer with a bang.
Read more:
- Where is hot in January?
- Where is hot in February?
- Where is hot in March?
- Where is hot in April?
- Where is hot in October?
Ahead, the best destinations that are hot in September.
1. Portugal
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 26 degrees C.
A Brit-favourite destination, Portugal offers year-round sunshine and gloriously hot weather in September (with temperatures rising to 26 °C on average). September is a great time to visit popular Portuguese destinations like the Algarve, Lisbon or Porto – because it means that you’ll be avoiding the summer holiday rush. And you won’t have to fight for a sun lounger at your favourite beach resort too.
Where to stay in Portugal:
Paying homage to the 1950’s motor-hotel aesthetic of Palm Springs, the cool and colourful Magnolia Hotel brings a playful Americana vibe to the heart of the Algarve. The Magnolia Hotel has 74 rooms, each one with a private veranda. Guests at The Magnolia can access all the facilities of sister hotel Quinta do Lago which includes a golf course and an elite sports performance centre called the Campus, which has everything from professional padel, tennis to a stadium-quality football pitch. The Magnolia is also just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant beaches and nightlife of the Algarve. With prices starting at £139, we think The Magnolia is a total bargain.
Save when you book with these Expedia discount codes.
Lisbon Rooftop with Terrace and Stunning Views
This stunning rooftop Airbnb in Lisbon offers great views of the city and has a private sun-soaked terrace for catching the rays. We like the light, bright and contemporary interiors – and its central Lisbon location in Marques de Pombal close to the Eduardo VII park and Avenido da Liberdade.
Save when you book with these Airbnb promo codes.
2. Greece
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 24 degrees C.
With warm temperatures around 24°C, Greece is a great choice for September sunshine. September is a great time of year to visit the best Greek islands like Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes, because it is less crowded and also much more affordable than during the high season. We think September is the time for you to finally get that perfect shot of the Caldera.
Where to stay in Greece:
This one is for the wellness buffs out there. Guests at the Andronis Concept begin with a consultation session to tailor make a wellness programme especially for them. Activities include aerial yoga, meditation hikes on the edge of a volcano and cooking lessons using ingredients from the property’s garden terrace that overlooks the caldera. It is just the place for a soul-enriching getaway in September. Search for more of the best hotels in Santorini here.
Save when you book with these Expedia discount codes.
We think this luxury mega villa in Chania, which has four bedrooms, three baths and a heated pool is the perfect Greek villa for a girl’s getaway in September.
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3. The Maldives
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 30 degrees C.
The Maldives always conjures up feelings of wanderlust and is a bucket-list worthy destination all year round. With high temperatures of 30°C in September, beautiful white-sand beaches, dreamy overwater villas and colourful marine life — we think this tropical paradise on the Indian Ocean is well worth the long flight time.
Where to stay in The Maldives:
Avani+ Fares Maldives is the latest addition to the renowned heart-shaped Baa Atoll. Surrounded the vibrant underwater world of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this stunning resort offers guests a number of exciting dive and snorkel sites, as well as 176 villas, studios and pavilions, nine bars and restaurants - including the family-friendly Petit Bistrot and the blissful AvaniSpa. Hands down one of the best hotels in the Maldives, we can't think of a dreamier September holiday destination than this.
Spacious Water Villa With Private Pool
This overwater villa is a world away from the busy-ness of Male and sits in its own private island, giving you the complete Maldivian resort experience minus the eye watering Maldives-price.
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4. Zambia
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 31°C - 40°C.
With average temperatures between 31°C - 40°C, September is one of the hottest months in Zambia. It is also one of the best time of year to go on safari because of the natural migration cycles of the animals in the region. Plus, due to the dry weather, thirsty animals crowd around watering holes and rivers to drink – meaning you’re more likely to see the big five during your safari adventure.
Where to stay in Zambia:
Avani Victoria Falls is the nearest hotel to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. It has everything from a spa, gym and large lagoon-style pool, and is quite literally a five-minute walk away from the falls. However, the best thing about the hotel are the zebras, giraffes and impalas that casually roam around the property. Set sail on some sunset river cruises, go bungee jumping over Victoria Falls Bridge or enjoy a traditional Zambian feast. There’s magic everywhere at Avani Victoria Falls.
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This gorgeous villa can house six guests and has everything from beautiful outdoor pool to a rock climbing wall. Perfect for exploring all that Zambia and neighbouring Zimbabwe have to offer.
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5. Tenerife
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 27 degrees C.
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife blends beautiful red and black sand beaches, gorgeous mountain landscapes and plenty of family-friendly attractions. From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Teide National Park, the always fun Siam Waterpark and vibrant nightlife scene, Tenerife is truly a great destination for a September getaway. Tenerife boasts a sub-tropical climate and offers year-round sunshine so it’s no surprise that the island has average temperatures of 27°C in September as well.
Where to stay in Tenerife:
Colón Guanahaní is an adults-only hotel by Adrian Hotels in Costa Adeje. The colonial style, excellent dining offer and beachside location make this our top choice in the island. Plus, with prices starting at £147 – it is a total bargain too. It's one of the best hotels in Tenerife, hands down.
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This whitewashed Airbnb is clean, contemporary and boasts excellent sea views. It even has a lush garden complete with private pool. What more can you ask for?
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6. Caribbean
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 25 degrees C.
Made up of over 700 tropical islands in the Atlantic, the Caribbean is a year-round favourite for sun, sea and sky. Antigua, St. Barth’s, St Lucia, Jamaica and Barbados all make for memorable beach holiday destinations and are well worth the long-haul flight. With average temperatures of 25 °C, this group of tropical islands is the perfect long haul destination for September sunshine.
Where to stay in the Caribbean:
Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort is a lush colonial resort in St. Lucia offering incredible views of the Caribbean Sea and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Val des Pitons. Picture white-washed villas and incredible culinary experiences. We can’t think of a bougier September holiday destination.
7. Croatia
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 18-25 degrees C.
Croatia may not be your usual destination for year-round sunshine, but with over 2,000 kilometres of coastlines, historic port towns like Dubrovnik and Hvar (known as Europe’s sunniest island), and average temperatures of 18-25°C, we think Croatia is a fabulous choice for a September city break.
Where to stay in Croatia:
Maslina Resort, A Relais & Châteaux Hotel
Described as Croatia’s very first mindful luxury resort, Maslina Resort is our top pick for a relaxing wellness getaway in Hvar. The hotel promises to woo guests with a holistic wellness experience that includes yoga lessons, sound-healing baths and stretching classes – and of course an incredible spa. Experience Maslina’s mindful luxury culture and delve into the rich history, untouched nature, cultural heritage, and culinary arts of Europe’s sunniest island, Hvar.
Save when you book with these Expedia discount codes.
Dubrovnik Apartment with Old Port View
This cosy little Airbnb may be small, but the views are mighty. In fact, we think the port views of this charming bolthole in Dubrovnik’s Old Town may even rival that of some of the best hotels in the city (and for a fraction of the price too).
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8. Italy
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 21-27°C in Southern Italy.
Italy has plenty of gorgeous sun-soaked holiday destinations perfect for a September getaway. Rome is filled with history, while Sicily has recently gone through a ‘White Lotus’ renaissance. The Amalfi Coast has inspired the wanderlust of plenty of travellers, while Tuscany is a fan-favourite thanks to its beautiful pastoral landscapes, excellent wines and endless hours of sunshine. With average temperatures of 21-27°C in Southern Italy – there are certainly plenty of places to choose from for a sunny September getaway.
Where to stay in Italy:
The picture of timeless Italian elegance, Caruso, A Belmond Hotel is our top pick for the best hotel in the Amalfi Coast. The hotel is located in the gorgeous hilltop town of Ravello near of the Amalfi Coast’s main historical attractions including Pompeii and the Herculaneum. Guests at Caruso enjoy the hotel’s private platform on the often crowded Lido degli Artisti beach or even take a private cruise to Capri.
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Agritourism Airbnb in Amalfi Coast
Want the Amalfi Coast experience without the Amalfi Coast price tag? Then check-in to this Agritourism-inspired farm stay, just a stone’s throw away from the Path of the Gods, one of Southern Italy’s most beautiful hiking trails. This Airbnb occupies an ancient farmhouse that was restored in 2019, offering a rustic and lowkey stay in the Sorrento.
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9. Dubai
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 39 degrees C.
Dubai is one of the literal (and figurative) hottest destinations to visit in September, with every celeb and influencer flocking to this glitzy metropolis at all times of year. With glamorous hotels, luxury boutiques, blinged-out supercars, endless hours of sunshine, incredible beaches, a bougie nightlife scene and average temperatures reaching 39°C in September – why wouldn’t you hop on a plane to the City of Gold in September?
Where to stay in Dubai:
This 90-room hotel on the west crescent of the man-made Palm Jumeirah ticks all the boxes and will especially be enjoyed by beach lovers looking for September sunshine. The hotel blends Arabian and Andalucian influences with plenty of romance and has one of the most beautiful swimming pools we’ve ever seen. It is perfect for a fly and flop holiday, but also great for exploring all that Dubai has to offer. Explore more of the best hotels in Dubai here.
Marina Sky Garden with Private Pool
This spacious rooftop flat in Dubai has everything from a private pool and BBQ to sun downers, ideal for viewing those famous Dubai sunsets. The apartment is located on the 42nd floor of the Jumeirah Beach Residence, giving you an incredible bird’s eye view of the city.
10. Morocco
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 28 degrees C.
From the mystical allure of the blue village in Chefchaouen, beautiful desert landscapes, to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech – there’s plenty to fall in love with in Morocco this September. With average daily temperatures of 28°C, there is plenty of sunshine too.
Where to stay in Morocco:
Situated in a nature reserve between Marrakech and Casablanca is La Sultana Oualidia, a boutique hotel that combines Morocco’s desert landscapes with beautiful coastal sceneries. La Sultana Oualidia is a true hidden gem with a special focus on preserving the natural beauty of its surroundings. The hotel encourages guests to embrace its sustainable spirit with activities like birdwatching, horse-riding and incredible organic dining experiences and we dig it.
This charming riad in the heart of the souk is light bright and airy and will certainly make you feel like Moroccan royalty. Pure House Marrakech has an excellent rooftop terrace where guests can soak up the sunshine and enjoy amazing views of the Atlas Mountains.
11. Ibiza
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 19°C-27°C.
The temperature may drop a little in Ibiza in September, but this beloved party island in the Balearics is definitely worth visiting even just to avoid the tourist crowds. In September, temperatures in Ibiza range between 19°C-27°C so it’s still pretty warm and it’s also a great time to explore Ibiza’s cool wellness scene away from all the summer holidaymakers.
If you’re looking for a post-festival season detox then definitely check-into OKU Ibiza this September. The hotel has teamed up with Bodyism to host two specialist trainers that will curate a bespoke wellness programme for its guests. Hailed as the most coveted opening on the White Isle, we think that OKU Ibiza is the ultimate destination to reconnect with yourself, enjoy the beach and embrace barefoot living.
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La Finca Agroturismo Casita 2BD
This rustic two-bedroom casita is our top choice for a quiet retreat in Ibiza. La Finca Agroturismo sits in the middle of a botanical farm and is the quintessential Ibicecan country house – a really great place to get away from it all.
