September is one of the best months to travel in Europe. The summer rush has slowed down, which means you can enjoy your trip with fewer crowds, lower hotel prices, and still plenty of sunshine.
The weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for beaches, sightseeing, and cultural adventures.
If you are wondering where is hot in September Europe, there are plenty of destinations that combine sunny days with amazing experiences.
Why Travel to Europe in September?
Traveling to Europe in September feels like enjoying the best of both worlds. The climate is pleasant, not too hot and not too cold, which makes exploring cities and relaxing on beaches comfortable.
It is also considered the shoulder season, so flights and hotels are usually more affordable than peak summer months.
This is the ideal time for both beach lovers who want to soak up the sun and city explorers who prefer a cultural escape without the long queues.
Where Is Hot in September in Europe? (Quick Overview)
If you are searching for hot countries in September Europe or wondering where is warm in September in Europe, the good news is that you have many options. Southern Europe and the Mediterranean are especially popular at this time of year. Top destinations include:
- Spain with its golden coasts and lively festivals.
- Portugal offering warm beaches and dramatic cliffs.
- Italy where sunny islands and wine harvests await.
- Greece for picture-perfect islands and warm seas.
- Cyprus for one of the hottest spots in Europe during September.
- Malta for history, culture, and diving adventures.
These destinations give you plenty of sunshine while avoiding the extreme heat of July and August. Now, let’s explore some of the best holiday destinations in detail.
Best Holiday Destinations in September – Southern Europe
Spain (Andalusia, Canary Islands, Costa del Sol)
Average temperatures in Spain during September range from 25 to 30°C, making it one of the hottest destinations in Europe.
The warm seas are perfect for swimming, while the lively cities of Andalusia and the Canary Islands are full of energy and cultural events.
September is a great time to experience traditional festivals without the heavy summer crowds. Whether you are looking for sandy beaches or vibrant city breaks, Spain offers a perfect mix.
Portugal (Algarve, Madeira)
Portugal in September is warm and sunny, with average temperatures between 24 and 28°C.
The Algarve is known for its golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, while Madeira offers a more tropical escape with lush landscapes. This is also a great time for surfing, boat trips, and seaside dining.
Since it is outside the busy summer season, prices are often lower, making it one of the best destinations for affordable seaside holidays.
Italy (Sicily, Sardinia, Amalfi Coast)
In Italy, places like Sicily, Sardinia, and the Amalfi Coast enjoy average temperatures of 23 to 28°C in September. It is the season of wine harvests, so you can enjoy festivals, vineyard tours, and delicious local food.
The beaches remain sunny and inviting, while the cities feel more relaxed compared to the busy summer months. Italy in September is ideal if you want a balance of culture, romance, and coastal relaxation.
Where Is Warm in September in Europe? – Islands Edition
Greek Islands (Crete, Rhodes, Santorini)
The Greek Islands are some of the most popular answers to where is warm in September in Europe. With average temperatures between 25 and 30°C, they are perfect for late-summer holidays.
The seas are crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing. Crete offers rugged landscapes and ancient ruins, Rhodes blends sandy beaches with medieval charm, and Santorini is world-famous for its sunsets. September also brings local festivals and vibrant nightlife, but without the overwhelming summer crowds.
Cyprus
Cyprus is one of the hottest European destinations in September, with average temperatures from 26 to 32°C.
It is a paradise for sun seekers, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and plenty of affordable seaside resorts. Beyond the coast, Cyprus is rich in history, offering ancient ruins and charming villages to explore. Whether you want to relax on the beach or explore its cultural heritage, Cyprus is a top pick for warm weather in September.
Malta
Malta enjoys average temperatures of 25 to 29°C, making it a sunny Mediterranean escape. This small island is full of character, combining rich history, beautiful architecture, and lively local culture.
It is also one of the best diving spots in Europe, with clear waters and fascinating underwater caves. From wandering historic Valletta to soaking up the relaxed island vibe, Malta is a great balance of culture and beach time.
Hot but Cooler Alternatives (Warm Cities & Culture)
Southern France (Nice, Marseille, Corsica)
Southern France offers a wonderful mix of warm beaches and cultural events in September, with average temperatures around 22 to 27°C.
Nice is perfect for seaside strolls along the Promenade des Anglais, Marseille buzzes with art and food, while Corsica offers stunning mountain-meets-sea landscapes.
The slightly cooler weather makes sightseeing and outdoor dining even more enjoyable.
Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar)
Croatia is another great option if you are asking where is hot in September Europe. Average temperatures range from 23 to 28°C, and the Adriatic coast remains warm enough for swimming and sailing.
Dubrovnik and Split are rich in history, with old towns full of charm, while Hvar is perfect for nightlife and island hopping. September also brings fewer crowds, so you can explore at a slower pace.
Turkey (Istanbul & Turkish Riviera – Antalya, Bodrum)
Turkey enjoys some of the warmest September weather, with average temperatures between 25 and 32°C. The Turkish Riviera, including Antalya and Bodrum, offers stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and affordable stays.
At the same time, Istanbul combines cultural landmarks like the Hagia Sophia and vibrant bazaars. Turkey is ideal for travelers looking for both relaxation and cultural exploration, with options for every budget.
If you’re planning a longer trip, don’t miss our guide to the Best Places to Travel in October for warm weather, cultural festivals, and great value destinations.
Travel Tips for Visiting Europe in September
September is one of the most rewarding months to travel in Europe, but a few smart tips can make your trip even smoother:
- Book early for flights and ferries – Although September is less crowded than July and August, it is still popular in hot destinations like Greece, Spain, and Italy. Securing your tickets in advance helps you save money and avoid last-minute stress.
- Pack light clothing with layers – Days are warm and sunny, but evenings can bring cooler breezes, especially in coastal areas. A mix of summer outfits and a light jacket or sweater keeps you comfortable in any situation.
- Check local festivals and events – September is full of exciting celebrations, from wine harvests in Italy and France to cultural festivals in Spain and Greece. Researching ahead ensures you don’t miss these authentic experiences.
- Stay connected with ease – Using an eSIM or travel SIM card makes navigating Europe stress-free. From booking tickets to using maps and sharing your trip moments, a global eSIM keeps you online without hunting for local SIM cards.
Quick Comparison Table – Best Hot Countries in September Europe
| Destination | Avg Temp (°C) | Best For | Vibe |
| Spain | 25–30 | Beaches + Culture | Lively |
| Portugal | 24–28 | Coastal Escapes | Relaxed |
| Italy | 23–28 | Food + Romance | Chic |
| Greece | 25–30 | Islands + Nightlife | Scenic |
| Cyprus | 26–32 | Hot Beaches | Sunny |
| Malta | 25–29 | Diving + History | Charming |
Conclusion
Europe in September offers the perfect balance of warm weather, vibrant festivals, and fewer crowds compared to peak summer. Whether you dream of lazy beach days, cultural city breaks, or foodie adventures, there is a destination to match every travel style.
From Spain’s lively coasts to Malta’s charming history, travelers enjoy both variety and affordability in this shoulder season. As you plan your September escape, remember to stay connected with a reliable eSIM. It makes your journey simpler, letting you focus on enjoying the sunshine, culture, and unforgettable experiences.