The best places to go in September: Our top travel picks for a solo trip
For many around the world, September means back to college. But while some are busy sharpening their pencils, seasoned solo travelers get a reprieve from the hordes while the sun still shines in the Northern Hemisphere – especially Europe – and the sea is often at its warmest.
Yes, September is prime time for traveling, not only for the lack of crowds and lower prices, but also that subtle energetic shift that heralds the start of a new season. In Europe and North Africa, the swelter of summer eases off slightly, creating near perfect travel conditions. Meanwhile, countries below the Equator switch from winter to spring, signalling brighter, warmer days to come, including Argentina. Here’s our pick of the best places to go in September for solo travel.
Croatia
Average temperature: 24°C / 75°F
Why you should visit now:
If September sunshine is your thing, look no further than Croatia. Boat trips to less crowded islands and bougainvillaea-clad villages await, alongside a thriving festival scene that continues into early autumn. Goulash Disko, an independent, crowdfunded music festival that takes place every September, is a good example. Expect everything from reggae to jungle, psychedelic light displays and blindingly good sunsets on the laidback island of Vis. Bring your swimsuit – the Adriatic is at its best in September.
Expert tip:
Shipwrecks abound off Vis. Adventurous divers should book a trip to swim over two plane wrecks off Komiza.
Spain
Average temperature: 25°C / 77°F
Why you should visit now:
It wouldn’t be September without a harvest festival or two. In the Andalucía region of Spain, the grapevines are fit for bursting. Head to the city of Jerez de la Frontera, where celebrations kick off with the Vendimia Festival in early September. Pop by to see ceremonies like the Pisa de la Uva (treading of the grapes) on the steps of the cathedral, followed by two weeks of flamenco shows, art exhibitions and tours of regional bodegas and vineyards.
Expert tip:
Go kayaking in Cabo de Gata, a protected national park in Andalucía, known for its wild, crowd-free beaches and excellent snorkeling.
Turkey
Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F
Why you should visit now:
At the far eastern edge of Europe, where temperatures align towards Asia, Turkey is still super hot in September if you’re chasing the sun. The best way to explore the coastline is by boat. Climb aboard a skippered yacht in Izmir, ready to spend the day snorkeling in sheltered coves and gorging on mezze platters for lunch. Back on dry land, follow in the footsteps of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony by wandering through the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
Expert tip:
Try imam bayildi, a popular Turkish dish of aubergines, stuffed with onion, garlic and tomatoes, simmered gently in olive oil.
Portugal
Average temperature: 25°C / 84°F
Why you should visit now:
After the wishy-washy waves of summer, September promises consistent surf conditions in Portugal. Just an hour from Lisbon, Ericeira is prime for beginners right up to advanced surfers, offering up warm water and balmy evenings in September. Loosen up those limbs with a morning yoga class before a lesson with Ericeira Waves surf school.
Expert tip:
Refuel after a salty surf session with an espresso and a pastel de nata. Try O Pãozinho das Marias in Ericeira – it’s popular for a reason.
Brazil
Average temperature: 23°C / 73°F
Why you should visit now:
Major vacation season is over, but the chilly wet months are yet to begin, making September one of the best months to visit Brazil. Venture north to the Pantanal, the world’s largest wetland to see jaguars, giant anteaters and South American tapirs. Back in the city, music fans should book tickets to Rock in Rio, one of Brazil’s biggest pop and rock music festivals. Previous headliners include the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Foo Fighters and Coldplay.
Expert tip:
Stay at Pousada Xaraés hotel for a chance to go piranha fishing on the Abobral River and cook up your catch for dinner.
Argentina
Average temperature: 15°C / 59°F
Why you should visit now:
Winter is loosening its icy grip on Argentina at this time of year and spring is settling in. The capital Buenos Aires sees blossoms garland the sultry city in a shawl of seasonal colour – including the extravagant purple-flowering jacaranda trees. Salta and the northwest are warm and dry – ideal for accessing the otherworldly Puna de Atacama high-altitude desert region (known simply as “the Puna’”) that borders Chile’s better known Atacama. Way down south, Patagonia also becomes a possibility – with trails and lodges grinding into gear after the long, cold off season.
Expert tip:
Argentina’s wine capital Mendoza hosts Wine Week during the final week in September, when 70 wineries offer tastings and restaurants proffer wine by the glass at reasonable prices. DJs join the party after dark.
Costa Rica
Average temperature: 27°C / 80°F
Why you should visit now:
The key to cracking Costa Rica in September is nuance. Many will tell you it’s rainy season and therefore the country is best avoided. But that only applies to the Pacific coast, from Nicoya all the way down to the remote Osa Peninsula. Avoid that. Instead head to the Caribbean coast, which is actually at its best in September. The weather is good, the sea is warm, it’s turtle-hatching season on the beaches of Tortuguero – Costa Rica’s “Little Amazon” – and there are fewer crowds as they ebb ahead of October’s off season.
Expert tip:
Costa Rica’s adventure hub, centred around the Arenal volcano, is great at this time of year, as it falls within the Caribbean climate zone. Base yourself in La Fortuna and book trips out for hiking, canyoning and more.
Ready to take off on your next adventure? Join Flash Pack today to discover group solo trips with like-minded people in their 30s & 40s.
To find out where to go in October, read our expert travel tips, ideas and inspiration.
Images: Adobe, Flash Pack
