Where's hot in September?

Average maximum temperature in September: 29⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 10 hrs

Fall in love with Paphos. This picturesque Cypriot city is packed to the brim with gorgeous beaches, UNESCO-listed ruins and plenty of legends. Paphos is the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. And it’s a suitably pretty des res.

Wander the waterfront for harbourside seafood. Stop by galleries and museums galore. And explore the butter-coloured stone ramparts of its 13th-century castle. With long days – on average there’s ten hours of sunshine in September – and temperatures that on average reach a maximum of 29⁰C, relaxing on the beach or poolside may be your number one priority.

Accommodation ranges from apartments and budget properties that offer cheap package deals, to luxury and boutique hotels, some with swim-up rooms. So, there’s likely something for every budget, whether you want to go it alone with simple self-catering or be waited on hand and foot.

Average maximum temperature in September: 25⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 10 hrs

From tavernas by the shore, endless beaches and whitewashed houses to courtyards brimming with purple bougainvillea, a Greek island break is what holiday dreams are made of. Crete offers it all in spades.

A four-hour flight from the UK, one of the island’s major attractions is its spectacular coastline and crystal-clear waters. While the pink sands of Elafonissi are rightly famous, truthfully you can’t go wrong wherever you pause for a paddle. The island is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Europe.

In September, there’s still plenty of sun under which to enjoy them all, but with fewer crowds, while many seasonal tourist attractions close-up from October.

If it’s your first time on the island, resorts such as Chania – the island’s second largest city – or Rethymnon are good options with plenty to do. Or head to upmarket Elounda for a little luxury. Holidaying with the family? Top spots include Platanias and quiet Anissaras.

Average maximum temperature in September: 26⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 8 hrs

With mountains, vineyards and more than 200 beaches all blessed with the Mediterranean sun, Majorca offers the best bits of Spain in one beautiful package. Part of the Balearic Islands, you’ll find solid sunshine into September, meaning its plenty warm enough to still spend your days on the sand.

Accommodation-wise, you’ll find most hotel options sit along the island’s rightly famed coastline from all-inclusive resorts to luxury hotels, apartments and more. Though if you’re looking for a quieter, rural break, head inland for charming villages and towns.

Beyond the beaches, there’s much to do. For a day of culture, pop to capital Palma. For a night on the tiles, Magaluf is calling. Though the peak party season usually climaxes in August, many clubs and bars remain open into September, just without the long lines.

Average maximum temperature in September: 28⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 8 hrs

A Brit holiday favourite, Benidorm’s year-round good weather, bars, attractions, great value sky-scraper hotels and Blue Flag beaches have made it a firmly established fixture for a break in the sun.

In September, the school holiday crowds may have departed, but the sun’s still shining. In fact, temperatures reach an average maximum of 28⁰C during the month, so pack plenty of suncream. For young families, there’s safe, shallow waters and water parks galore. After a party? Though the basslines pump year-round, May to September marks the peak clubbing season with guest DJs and late-night parties.

But you can opt for something quieter if you want to. There’s the cobbled streets of the old town to explore, where you’ll find authentic tapas bars to hop between. The surrounding mountains also offer plenty of hiking options for outdoor lovers looking for panoramic views. Or drive out to quaint whitewashed villages nearby.

Average maximum temperature in September: 30⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 11 hrs

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is calling. If you like your beach breaks with a side of bazaars, pine-clad mountains and endless meze, Bodrum is a top choice.

The name of both the peninsula facing the Greek islands and the town, Bodrum is awash with white and blue painted houses, bougainvillea-covered streets and archaeological ruins galore. Spend your days by the coast, sailing aboard traditional wooden gulets (sailing boat), dropping anchor in secluded bays and swimming in clear turquoise waters. Beneath the waves you’ll find some of the Aegean’s best scuba diving.

The great news is you can still make the most of the beaches in September. Temperatures remain toasty into the month with the average daytime maximum around 29⁰C. If you fancy a night on the tiles, you’re in luck too with the clubbing season generally running from April to late October.

Average maximum temperature in September: 27⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 8 hrs

The southern Andalusian coast remains beautifully warm into September. Bask on the sands of some of Spain’s best beaches, making the most of the off-peak prices and thinning summer crowds.

Where to head to depends on the kind of break you’re looking for. Malaga is known as the gateway to the region as well as its cultural capital. The city celebrates its role as birthplace of painter Pablo Picasso with enthusiasm, with museums dedicated to both his work and former home. Alongside several excellent galleries, there’s an exciting street art scene too.

If it’s the beach you’re dreaming of, try the picturesque resorts of Mijas, Marbella, Estepona and Puerto Banus. Travelling as a family? Torrox and Nerja are quiet and laid-back, ideal if travelling with little ones, while lively Fuengirola suits teens and tweens. Or for a party, Torremolinos and Benalmádena are lively spots.

Average maximum temperature in September: 31⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 6 hrs

September in this Thai island paradise can get hot and steamy. Koh Samui is in a shoulder season during this month, which marks the end of the hot season and the start of the monsoon season. That means if you’re prepared for a little rain, you’ll be rewarded with sun at low-season prices.

So, what’s there to do while you’re there? This tropical island getaway in the Gulf of Thailand is famed for palm-fringed beaches, dense mountainous rainforests and world-class luxury resorts. From parties to spa appointments, do as much or as little as you choose.

For nightlife, stay in Chaweng. You’ll find extensive shopping and dining options here too. Lamai is a little more relaxed but still has some places to party. Head to historical Bo Phut’s Friday night markets. Taling Ngam and Choeng Mon are home to the island’s five-star luxury resorts.

Average maximum temperature in September: 26⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 7 hrs

Looking for a white-sand island getaway? With its tropical climate, natural beauty and sense of adventure and rich culture, Mauritius might well be it. With year-round sunshine, luxury resorts and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Mauritius promises an unforgettable holiday for every type of traveller.

From powder-soft white sands and crystal-clear lagoons to lush mountains, waterfalls and vibrant markets, this Indian Ocean paradise offers much more than just a relaxing escape. Spend your days snorkelling among colourful coral reefs, hiking through scenic national parks or sampling the island’s unique mix of Indian, African, Chinese and European culture. It’s there in everything from the food to the temples you’ll see around the island.

The north side of the island is known for having fantastic beaches such as Mont Choisy and Trou-Aux-Biches. To the west you’ll find all-inclusive resorts and the bustling capital Port Louis. For luxury hotels, try the east coast.

Average maximum temperature in September: 32⁰C

Average hours of sunshine in September: 8 hrs

September is an excellent time to visit Orlando if you want to avoid long theme park queues and take advantage of off-peak pricing. Though you will have to contend with intense humidity, daily rain showers and the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season.

In reality, afternoon thunderstorms tend to pass quickly and – with year-round sunshine – there’s generally never a bad time to go on a holiday to Orlando.

Thanks to its theme parks, you’ll never be short of something to do. Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort lead alongside the new Universal Epic Universe which opened in 2025, but you’ll find plenty more.

Elsewhere, there’s fascinating museums including the Rollins Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum of American Art, or you could learn about Hispanic and Latino history at the Orlando Museum of Art.