Where to Go in September 2026: Lonely Planet’s 6 Best Destinations in Europe

September is the perfect month to travel through Europe: fewer tourists, cooler weather, and better prices. Find out which six destinations Lonely Planet experts recommend visiting in the fall of 2026

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Experienced travelers have long known that the most comfortable time for a European vacation is neither July nor August. “In September, the summer tourist rush in Europe subsides, and temperatures begin to drop slightly. It’s the perfect time to explore everything the continent has to offer, from cozy English villages to the sparkling Turkish coast,” write the authors of Lonely Planet.

Experts from the world’s largest travel publishing house have compiled a list of the six best places in Europe to vacation in early fall 2026 — and each destination offers something truly special.

Read also: The 10 Coolest Countries in Europe for a Summer Vacation — Where to Escape the Heat?

The Cotswolds, United Kingdom — for a rural getaway without the crowds

The rolling landscapes of the Cotswolds, with their stone villages and historic towns nestled in valleys and ravines, have long been a symbol of English idyll. September is a particularly good time to visit: the tour buses have already left, and the countryside is gradually taking on its autumn colors. This is one of those rare moments when you can enjoy the real England — without the lines and the hustle and bustle.

Istria, Croatia — for culinary discoveries and bike rides

The triangular Croatian peninsula in the far northwestern corner of the Adriatic is abundant with asparagus, olives, and oysters — but it’s September that makes Istria especially delicious. This is when the grapes are harvested, and truffles ripen beneath the forest floor. To enjoy these flavors with a clear conscience, Lonely Planet recommends working up an appetite with a bike ride along the coast.

La Palma, Spain — for hiking in the Canary Islands on a sunny day

La Palma—the greenest and least touristy of the major Canary Islands — offers about 1,000 km of hiking trails amid volcanic landscapes. September offers hikers the best combination of conditions: consistently sunny skies, cooler weather, and a much better selection of accommodations after peak season.

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Bologna, Italy — for foodies and al fresco dining

The nickname “La Grassa” (The Fat One) aptly describes Bologna: here, it seems, life revolves entirely around food.

In September, the region is still warm enough for al fresco dining, and the markets are stocked with the best fall produce — mushrooms, pumpkins, game, and chestnuts. It’s the perfect time to combine culinary delights with comfortable temperatures.

The Turquoise Coast, Turkey — for yachting and swimming in the warm sea

The waters off Turkey’s Aegean and Mediterranean coasts — from the ports of Bodrum, Marmaris, and Fethiye — have long been a classic destination for lovers of yacht and gulet cruises. The routes wind past ancient ruins, hidden coves, and crystal-clear lagoons. By September, the number of tourists has pleasantly decreased, but the water is still warm — this month perfectly combines comfort and tranquility.

Transylvania, Romania — for a road trip on the world’s best road

The Transfăgărășan Highway — 90 km of sharp turns, high mountain passes, and breathtaking mountain scenery between Transylvania and Wallachia — is often called the most beautiful road in the world. It was built on the orders of dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu in just four years as a military route through the Carpathians. Today, it has become an iconic tourist route.

September is practically the only comfortable time to travel: the weather is mild, autumn colors highlight the mountain slopes, and the road is still open (it closes from October through June due to snow). If you’re dreaming of a road trip adventure in Romania, September offers the best window of opportunity.

Tip: When planning your September trip, don’t forget to purchase travel insurance in advance. You can do this online through Visit Ukraine.

We remind you! July is the most popular month for vacations in Europe, but travelers are increasingly choosing off-the-beaten-path destinations instead of crowded resorts. Read where travel experts recommend going in July 2026.

Photo: Matildahjarvis / Shutterstock

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