This year, for the first time as I can remember, my “summer” vacation is actually happening in the autumn 😅 As a total newbie when it comes to fall travel, I’ve started doing some research to discover the best places to visit in September and hopefully pick one destination that could start a new tradition: the autumn vacation. 🍂
Let’s be honest: September marks the start of the off-season for many popular summer destinations. That means lower prices, fewer crowds and a better chance to truly enjoy a place without the usual hustle. Plus, since it’s still close to the summer, the weather in many places remains warm and pleasant.
After digging through dozens of guides, reviews and travel photos, I’ve narrowed it down to my top 5 destinations for this month. It’s a tough list to choose from (and you’ll see why), but I hope it helps anyone else in the same boat :)
Chase the sun (or the leaves): 5 stunning September travel destinations
🇯🇵 Japan
Let’s start with the star of our list: Japan. If you’re dreaming of a diverse trip that blends culture, nightlife and adventure, this is your go-to destination. Japan is one of the most popular countries in Asia among tourists and visiting it in September gives you the chance to experience some of its top seasonal events, like:
🌟 Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri – with over 300 years of tradition, this is Japan’s largest danjiri matsuri (float festival) festival. 35 neighborhood teams race nearly 4-tonne wooden floats through the streets of Kishiwada, competing for local glory and neighborhood’s reputation.
🎮 Tokyo Game Show – Japan is home to some of the biggest names in gaming, so it’s no surprise that this is one of the most important video game expos in the world. Expect major releases, demos, cosplay and industry announcements, a must for any gaming enthusiast.
🎵 Ultra Japan – If you’re craving entertainment, this is your moment. Ultra Japan is the country’s premier electronic music festival, featuring some of the most famous DJs and performances that light up Tokyo’s nightlife scene.
So yeah, Japan sounds like an incredible choice for your next travel destination!
🇳🇦 Namibia
September is prime time for safari lovers and one of the best months to visit Namibia. The wild animals gather around waterholes, making it much easier to spot elephants, lions, rhinos, and more, especially in Etosha National Park. The skies are crystal clear, temperatures range from 20 to 30°C and rainfall is minimal.
So, if you’re an adventurer at heart and love the thrill of the wild, Namibia should be high on your list this September. Just don’t forget to pack your camera, you’re going to need it for sure!
🇳🇿 New Zealand
“Here comes the sun, and I say it’s all right…” say the lyrics of a famous song from The Beatles; and if you’re looking for the sun, you’ll definitely find it in New Zealand, as September marks the beginning of the Spring. You’ll find cherry and blossom festivals there and a peaceful vibe to fill your heart and soul. It’s also the final month of ski season, so if you’re up for an adventure, pack your ski gear too.
Did we mention the Whangarei Run/Walk Festival? Oh yes, that one’s for the active souls. Whether you’re a casual jogger or a serious runner, this event is a must. It takes place on September 14, so you might want to hurry and grab those plane tickets to New Zealand.
So whether you’re chasing adrenaline or simply soaking up nature’s beauty, September is the perfect moment to explore the Land of the Long White Cloud.
🇮🇹 Italy
Wine lover? Food lover? Sightseeing lover? Say no more, Italy is calling!
September starts the harvest season in regions like Tuscany, and you’ll have the chance to savor incredible local wines at events like the Chianti Wine Festival.
Explore famous Italian attractions like Pompeii, the Colosseum or Florence’s Duomo without the usual tourist crowds, while the weather is just ideal: still warm but not hot.
And as the Italians say, “L’appetito vien mangiando” (“Appetite comes while eating”), so come hungry. From authentic gelato to fresh pasta and pizza, the streets of Italy are still bursting with flavor in September.
🇬🇷Greece
Greece is on my top list for travel this autumn. No matter how many times have visited this amazing country, I always feel like there’s more to discover and enjoy (did you know that Greece has around 6000 islands and islets and about 227 of them are inhabited? Now you know why I feel like my time exploring Greece is far from over 😄)
Are you a pistachio lover? Or maybe you are just looking for a nice event with a good dose of culture? Then you should definitely check out the Aegina Fistiki Fest, an annual festival that brings together visitors eager to taste delicious local products.
September is still a fantastic time for a swim in those turquoise Greek waters, still warm and inviting. Plus, you can enjoy the beach without the usual tourist crowds, which is a pure bliss.
Now it’s time to book those plane tickets and start packing! ✈️
And don’t forget to check out our Travel eSIM data plans for the above-mentioned destinations, so you can travel free of roaming worries and enjoy your vacation like never before ;)
Author: Bianca from MobileSIM
