10 Best Countries to Visit in Europe in September for Culture, Weather & Fewer Crowds
September is one of the greatest months to travel in Europe. Crowds are no longer present in the summer months, prices are more accommodating, and the weather remains warm in most parts of the continent. Do you prefer to soak up the sun on the beaches of the Mediterranean, celebrate the grape picking festivals, or discover historic cities without having to bear the heat? These European countries to visit in September will provide the right level of comfort, culture, and charm.
Italy – Art, History, and Harvest Season
Italy is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in September due to its moderate weather, reduced tourists, and festivities that usually mark the month. The ruins of Rome, the art of Florence, and the canals of Venice can be topics more easily without the same summer crowd. Grape harvests and wine festivals bring Tuscany to life, and the Amalfi Coast is beautiful even in late summer. September is a food fest in the true sense, as food aficionados can get in touch with the truffle fairs and also get to consume fresh produce.
France – Wine, Coastlines, and Charming Towns
France is among the most interesting countries to visit in Europe in September, which also features cool weather and rich culture. Paris glows with nice walks along the river Seine, and the French Riviera has warm sunny days to visit the beach. Grape gatherers can go to Bordeaux or Burgundy to join vineyard celebrations. Villages are quiet and picturesque, and such areas as Provence or Chamonix display stunning views with early autumn colors.
Spain – Sunshine and Festivals
Spain is still quite active in September, which explains why it is one of the best locations that should be visited in the month of September by a tourist who is planning to visit Europe. Andal novels, perfect swimming weather may be had at beaches in Costa del Sol and in the Balearic Islands. There is an active La Merc e Festival celebrated in Barcelona, and the streets reverberate with fire, music, and dancing. Evenings in Madrid are cooler, and it is a good time to go sightseeing and tapas-hopping there, and wine areas such as La Rioja are celebrating their harvest season in style.
Greece – Island Bliss Without the Crowds
Greece is among the dream destinations when one wants to know which country to travel to in Europe during September. The Aegean remains warm, and the islands are cooler beyond the summer peak. Santorini and Mykonos never disappoint, as they are postcard-perfect spots, and Crete and Rhodes present pure culture. The ancient sites of Athens are cool to visit, and the local tavernas offer great fresh seasonal dishes. September will also usually mean that there are not as many cruise ships in the picture, leaving you free to enjoy more quiet moments on the beaches and lovely coastal towns.
Portugal – Beaches and Historic Charm
Portugal is considered to be one of the most favorable countries to visit in September in Europe, which combines the warm climate of the coasts with superb heritage. The Algarve has the best swimming beaches and even beautiful hikes. The history of Lisbon means that its trams and bright neighborhoods breathe in the cheerful light of the sun, and Porto offers tourists the opportunity to sample the famous wines of the Douro Valley during the season of harvest season. Portugal seems to have a relaxed atmosphere to it, yet it has so many colorful cultural experiences available to the visitor, as the tourists are fewer in one.
Croatia – Coastal Beauty and Island Hopping
Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries to visit in Europe in September, with warm seas in which to sail the Adriatic. The medieval fortifications of Dubrovnik and the Roman ruins of Split are shining bright without the crowds that they have to endure in peak season. Such islands as Hvar or Korčula are only true but quiet, and national parks like Plitvice Lakes or Krka are striking in their nature. With beaches and culture being its prized possessions, Croatia is a September hot favorite, combined with outdoor adventure.
Switzerland – Alpine Serenity and Scenic Trains
Switzerland is one of the countries to visit in Europe in September because of the clean air and golden valleys without many visitors. Scenic train rides like the Glacier Express and the Bernina Express show you breathtaking mountain sights. Hiking in Zermatt, Interlaken, or Grindelwald is great right before the first snow. A lively frontage along sparkling lakes such as Geneva, Lucerne, and Zurich comes as a peaceful boat voyage on the lake under an upbeat sky.
Austria – Culture and Alpine Landscapes
Austria is a destination of rich culture and natural beauty, which explains why it is among the best countries to visit in Europe in September. The classical Vienna and Salzburg city attractions are the charm of classical music, imperial buildings, and warm coffee shops. Hiking can be enjoyed in Tyrol and the Salzkammergut with cool mountain air and autumn colors. A harvest festival is a traditional occasion that unites locals and visitors to celebrate food, music, and wine.
Germany – Beer Festivals and Castles
Germany cannot be left out of any list of countries to visit in Europe in September due to the world-renowned Oktoberfest held in Munich, Germany. Of course, there is the bee, but beyond that, the vineyards of the Rhine Valley become golden, and medieval castles glide past on river trips. There are the histories of Berlin, the maritime culture of Hamburg, and the Alpine frivolity of Bavaria, which are all beautiful during the beginning days of Autumn. September is one of the best seasons to visit the country of Germany, both for the cooler weather and the holiday mood.
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Iceland – Northern Lights and Nature’s Wonders
Among the most spell-bound countries to visit in Europe in September is Iceland, the time when the Northern Lights season begins. The weather is quite moderate for taking trips by road to waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and glaciers. Hot water springs such as the Blue Lagoon become more inviting in the evenings when it grows cooler. September is also a great time to visit Iceland, a land with a quieter time and longer nights to enjoy the untouched power of nature.
Final Thoughts
You get the best of Europe without summer madness when traveling during September. These 10 best places to visit in Europe in September have the perfect mix of favorable weather, cultural activities, and low levels of tourists, so you get to have the best of both worlds. Have a craving to visit your favorite coast, mountain attractions, or marvel at city landmarks? There is no better time than in September to grab your bandolier and get going!
FAQs
1. Is September a good time to travel to Europe?
Yes, September is warm, less touristy, and with better travel deals as compared to the high summer months.
2. Of which European country is best in September?
One of the best beach weather falls in Portugal, Spain, and Greece in September.
3. Is it possible to see Northern Lights in Europe in September?
Well, in Europe, at least in Iceland and northern Norway, the Northern Lights season begins in September.
4. In September, do hotels cost less in Europe? Yes, usually, though, as with most destinations, it’s shoulder season during September.
5. Which are the September countries with wine harvest festivals?
Harvesting of grapes is a festival in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Germany.
