Vrbo: where to go in September

Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Enjoy the fall transition with these perfect destinations

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With the kids back at school, the best places to travel in September see less crowds while still enjoying great weather. Each destination boasts a multitude of vacation rentals, from chic city pads to luxury oceanfront homes.

If you're seeking a laid-back September getaway that's close to home, Myrtle Beach won't disappoint. Here, you'll enjoy temperatures in the high 70s and plenty of elbow room on the boardwalk. Over in Panama City Beach, it's a great time for wildlife spotting. Look out for bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and catch monarch butterflies migrating. For something out of the ordinary, Napa Valley's grape-stomping festivals and farm-to-table vineyard dining are a must. More harvest celebrations await at the wineries in Willamette Valley.

For somewhere more far flung, how about Europe? At this time of year, the idyllic Greek island of Santorini promises a balmy summer climate but without the crowds. It's one of the best months for strolling around the whitewash streets of Oia and Thira. Italy's Tuscany is another popular destination with its late summer festivals, while Munich makes the list of the best places to visit in September thanks to the Oktoberfest celebrations.

Miramar and Rosemary Beach

Miramar & Rosemary Beach, Florida

#1 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

For a late summer coastal getaway, Miramar and Rosemary Beach have to be high on your list of best places to visit in September. By this month, the summer crowds have thinned out, but the weather remains around the high 70s. In September, you can expect better deals on vacation rentals overlooking the sugar-white sands and emerald waters. The sunsets are particularly impressive at this time of year, too. After sundown, you can catch open-air concerts during the week and even beach bonfires. A short drive away, September's Destin Seafood Festival boasts everything from fresh-caught grouper to Gulf shrimp.

 

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Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach, Florida

#2 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

With the kids back in class and a more chilled out vibe, Panama City Beach is one of the best places to visit in September for a relaxing ocean escape. The weather's ideal, too. Late summer promises warm temperatures and sunny days perfect for tanning on the shore. September is also prime time for spotting bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat, while along Conservation Park's forested-trails you can often catch a glimpse of migrating monarch butterflies. Toward the end of the month, Pier Park's Oktoberfest kicks off, bringing local craft beer, traditional German cuisine, and live music to town.

 

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Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

#3 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

As the summer buzz mellows out into a more easy-going groove, Myrtle Beach is one of the best places to go in September for an Atlantic escape. With an average of 8 hours sunshine per day and temperatures floating around the high 70s, you're still in for sizzling beach weather. There's plenty of elbow room at attractions like Broadway at the Beach and the boardwalk takes on a more laid-back vibe. Be sure to taste freshly caught seafood at the oceanfront restaurants. Beyond the sun-soaked sands, tee off at championship courses or catch the fall flowers at Brookgreen Botanical Gardens. Vibrant roses and golden lantana are in bloom at this time of year.

 

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Hancock County

Hancock County, Maine

#4 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Hancock County stands out as one of the best places to visit in September thanks to the seasonal events and comfortable temperatures holding steady in the mid-60s. Acadia National Park's pine-forested cliffs show the first hints of fall colors, making it prime time for hiking and photography. The Annual County Fair is one of September's main draws. This traditional event brings the harvest to life with everything from local bands to fresh-pressed cider and seasonal produce. You'll find plenty to do in the harbor towns—grab dinner at a sea-to-kitchen restaurant serving the morning's catch, explore the Woodlawn Museum's heritage gardens, or kayak to Mount Desert Island.

 

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St Petersburg

St. Petersburg, Florida

#5 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

St. Petersburg ranks among the best places to go in September for a Florida getaway that's packed with culture. With the mercury floating around the mid-80s, it's the perfect time for lazing on St. Pete's Beach. September's arts festival transforms the warehouse district into an open-air gallery while the buzzing waterfront hosts live music in the evening. It's one of the best times of year to witness marine life—look out for dolphin pods and manatees from the shore. If it's fishing you're keen on, September's weather is perfect for catching grouper.

 

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Napa Valley

Napa Valley, California

#6 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

With its distinct blend of outdoor adventure and gastronomic culture, Napa Valley has to be on your radar for one of the best places to visit in September. Soak up the warm sunshine as you experience this one-of-a-kind corner of California, whether that’s in a hot air balloon ride at sunset or gourmet meals overlooking sprawling vineyards. It's peak harvest season at this time of year, so you can get your hands dirty at grape-stomping festivals, spot the first colors of fall on vineyard hikes, and sample wines straight from the barrel. Many wineries even host their own harvest celebrations with live music and tastings.

 

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Tampa

Tampa, Florida

#7 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Tampa is one of the most popular places to visit in September for a sun-drenched Florida escape thanks to its packed events calendar and theme parks. The local theater festival brings Broadway-worthy performances to venues across downtown while craft beer lovers can raise their steins at the waterfront Oktoberfest celebrations that kick off at the end of the month. Temperatures hovering in the mid-80s mean you can still splash around at Adventure Island and hit the hair-raising rides at Busch Gardens. It's also a pleasant time of year to explore outdoor spaces like the Tampa Riverwalk and Sunken Gardens.

 

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Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

#8 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Pleasant temperatures in the mid-90s and exciting festivals make Palm Springs one of the best places to visit in September for a cultured desert adventure. As the summer heat gives way to fall warmth, it's an ideal time of year to explore the extraordinary desert scenery. Plus, with an average of 12 hours of sunshine per day, you'll have plenty of time to explore. Hike the palm-studded Indian Canyons trail or ride the tram up for sweeping views over the Coachella Valley. September sees Palm Spring come to life with fun-filled events. Don't miss the city's renowned film festival and be sure to check-out the LGBTQIA+ music shows.

 

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Willsboro

Willsboro, New York

#9 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Willsboro's exciting events and gloriously sunny days mean this lakeside haven is the ideal destination for your fall getaway. With the mercury steady around the 70s, you can hike up Rattlesnake Mountain and enjoy sweeping views of the first fall colors without working up a sweat. Be sure to pack your waterproofs: it's an ideal time of year for fishing and kayaking on the glistening waters of Lake Champlain. The local harvest festival only adds to the seasonal charm, with nearby orchards inviting visitors to pick crisp apples straight from the branch.

 

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Willamette Valley

Willamette Valley, Oregon

#10 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

As far as warm places to visit in September go, few destinations compete with Willamette Valley. This slice of Oregon wine country takes on a different vibe during harvest season, with festivities at family-owned vineyards and local farmers' markets overflowing with seasonal treats. Temperatures hover around the mid-70s, making it the perfect time to cycle the Scenic Bikeway or hike to waterfalls at Silver Falls State Park. Grab your basket and venture into the Valley's golden farms where you can hunt for truffles, pick your own produce, and try local vintages.

 

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Tuscany

Tuscany, Italy

#11 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

With temperatures sitting in the mid-70s and 8 hours of sunshine each day, you'll enjoy conditions for exploring one of Italy's most idyllic regions. Colorful festivals bring paper lantern parades to Florence's time-worn streets, while medieval reenactments pop up in towns like Arezzo. You can even catch a jousting tournament here. Head out truffle hunting in the morning—September is one of the best times of year for finding the prized white ones—then spend your afternoon tanning on Forte dei Marmi Beach. Tuscany's coastline is way less packed this time of year, too.

 

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Santorini

Santorini, Greece

#12 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Santorini is a contender for the best places to travel in September for those seeking a blissful Mediterranean escape. With the sun warming the Aegean Sea, water temperatures rise over 70°F, making it the perfect time to grab your snorkel and explore the crystal-clear waters off Red Beach. The lively Ifestia Festival takes places in September, with this centuries-old celebration culminating in a spectacular firework display over Santorini's cliff-edged bays. With the grape harvest in full swing, hop between traditional wineries and sample some of Greece's exquisite wine before hiking the Fira to Oia trail. Fall's golden sunshine promises incredible photo opportunities over Santorini's volcanic scenery.

 

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Honolulu

Honolulu, Hawaii

#13 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

It's no wonder Honolulu stands out as one of the best places to visit in September with its extraordinary weather and packed cultural calendar. Sunny weather and temperatures in the 80s mean you can enjoy long days swimming at Waikiki Beach or riding Pacific swells. Between water adventures, discover Pearl Harbor's compelling history or take a helicopter tour over the island's volcanic scenery. September's balmy evenings are perfect for waterfront dining and sunset catamaran rides along Oahu's stunning coastline. For a sprinkling of local culture, the Aloha Festival is a must. This buzzing celebration promises Polynesian traditions and lively street parties.

 

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Cardiff

Cardiff, Wales

#14 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

The Welsh capital ranks as one of the best places to go in September. Pack a light jacket and comfortable shoes because, with mild temperatures in the low 60s and less tourists, it's an ideal month for exploring the city's extraordinary castle. Time your visit with Cadw Open Days for special behind-the-scenes tours. The Great British Food Festival promises a feast of Welsh flavors and dishes from across the UK, while the historic Wales Millennium Centre hosts spell-binding opera performances. You'll find plenty of outdoor dining spots along Cardiff Bay, and when you're ready for nature, the Brecon Beacons' trails promise share-worthy views.

 

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Big Sky

Cape Town, South Africa

#15 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Less crowds and great deals on vacation rentals place Cape Town high up the charts for the best places to go in September. Spring sunshine warms the air into the pleasant 60s, making it an ideal time for hiking up Table Mountain's trails or driving along brooding Chapman's Peak. The Western Cape bursts into color each September with indigenous wildflowers in bloom and migrating whales put on their final shows along the coastline. A short drive away, the wineries in Stellenbosch open their cellar doors for tastings and the town hosts its iconic arts festival with open-air installations, exhibitions, and live performances.

 

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Albuquerque

Albuquerque, New Mexico

#16 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Colorful Albuquerque earns its spot as one of the most popular places to visit in September thanks to its glorious weather and seasonal events. With sunny days reaching the low 80s, you'll soak up plenty of rays while exploring the Old Town's centuries-old adobe streets. The State Fair livens up the city with local art shows and craft markets, while the annual Prickly Pear Festival showcases the city's distinct flavors. It's one of the most comfortable months for hiking Sandia Peak's pine-studded trails and cycling along the Rio Grande river. September also coincides with chili-roasting season, giving you the perfect excuse to sample authentic New Mexican cuisine.

 

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Geneva

Geneva, Switzerland

#17 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Extraordinary nature and great weather position Geneva as one of the top places to visit in September for alpine adventures. Lake Geneva's waters stay warm enough for paddleboarding along the shoreline and the clear skies make it perfect for paragliding over Mont Blanc. The city's elegant streets buzz with exciting events like food fairs and open-air concerts throughout the month. Pack light layers—temperatures float around the 60s, ideal for hiking the verdant trails before the snow arrives. You can even spot the first hints of fall colors from cable cars heading up into the Swiss Alps.

 

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Nantucket

Nantucket, Massachusetts

#18 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

In September, Nantucket promises uncrowded beaches and comfortable temperatures in the 70s. The warm weather means you can still swim, surf, and tan at Madaket Beach throughout the month. For an active afternoon exploring the Atlantic coast, cycle the 6-mile path to sleepy Siasconset and take selfies at Sankaty Head's historic lighthouse. Each September, local farms swing open their gates for the cranberry harvest with hands-on picking tours and tastings. If it's golf you're keen on, you'll find plenty of tee times at nearby courses.

 

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Amalfi Coast

Amalfi Coast, Italy

#19 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Perfect temperatures and fewer tourists thrust the Amalfi Coast into the travel spotlight as one of the best places to visit in September. Take a boat tour along the rugged coastline to hidden beaches, trek the Path of the Gods trail for spectacular views across the bay, and visit local olive farms to taste the season's produce. Expect comfortable mid-70s temperatures as you explore the extraordinary streets of Positano and Ravello. With the summer crowds gone, you'll enjoy more room to stretch out on the idyllic Fornillo Beach. The coastal towns host authentic seafood festivals, with everything from grilled swordfish to fresh anchovies.

 

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Munich

Munich, Germany

#20 in Best Places to Visit in September 2025

Munich is among the best places to travel in September if you're keen to visit one of the world's most well-known celebrations. The legendary Oktoberfest kicks off this month with traditional beer tents, Bavarian music, and festival rides taking over the city's parks and fairgrounds. You can sample authentic German brews, try your hand at traditional folk dances, and feast on regional dishes. The festivities spill into the city, too: The English Garden hosts outdoor concerts and Olympic Park stages special events. If you can tear yourself away from the fun, lose yourself in the bustling Viktualienmarkt or take it down a notch at Nymphenburg Palace Park.

 

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Methodology

We have curated these lists of top destinations by month by combining real booking data and expert insights. Some destinations were chosen based on actual booking data, reflecting popular choices for trips during a particular month. Additionally, our travel editors used their expertise to select other destinations, ensuring a well-rounded and inspiring list. This ranking is designed to provide helpful ideas and guidance for planning your trip in a particular month, offering a mix of trending spots and expert recommendations.

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