Malta. Photo: Shutterstock So you're not quite ready to bid farewell to the summer just yet. Perfectly understandable for many people. Fortunately, September can be one of the best times to find sunshine in Europe, with a handful of countries still experiencing Indian summer temperatures.
While temperatures begin to drop across much of the continent, several southern destinations can still offer warm days, Mediterranean beaches and plenty of opportunities to enjoy an autumn getaway.
Better still, September is outside the main summer season in many destinations, meaning travelers can often find lower accommodation prices (about 20-30% off) and more manageable crowds than in July and August.
Here are five European destinations worth considering for an escape next month.
Paphos, Cyprus. Photo: ShutterstockCyprus is one of the strongest choices for travelers looking for warm weather in September. The country experiences warm, late-summer weather with daytime highs averaging 29°C to 32°C, comfortable evening lows around 19°C to 23°C, and very warm sea temperatures of about 26°C–27°C, making it possible to spend time on the beach, swim in the sea or explore the island without the intense heat of the summer months.
The month also brings the potential for better-value package holidays. Depending on departure dates and availability, you should be able to find excellent hotel, restaurant, and car rental deals.
The clear waters of Ayia Napa in Cyprus. Photo: Amit CotlerThe island also offers plenty beyond its beaches, from historic sites and mountain villages to lively resorts and traditional Cypriot food.
Greece's islands remain popular well into autumn, with Crete and Rhodes among the best options for warm September weather.
Crete, Greece. Photo: ShutterstockBoth islands are known for their long summers and can remain pleasantly warm in October. Crete experiences warm and pleasant late-summer weather with average daytime highs of 26°C to 28°C and nighttime lows dropping to a comfortable 18°C to 20°C. Rainfall is very rare, and the sea temperature remains warm at around 24°C to 25°C, making it ideal for swimming.
Rhodes features warm daytime temperatures averaging 28°C to 29°C and comfortable evening lows of 20°C. Sea temperatures remain a warm 25°C to 26°C (77–79°F), making early autumn ideal for swimming with fewer crowds.
Hotels and other accommodation are also considerably more affordable than during July and August.
The quieter atmosphere is another advantage. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, old towns and beaches without encountering the same level of crowds found during the height of summer.
Rhodes. Photo: ShutterstockSicily is a less obvious choice than the Greek islands, but it can be an excellent September destination if you are looking for warmth combined with food, culture and history.
The beautiful island offers warm, pleasant weather with average daytime highs around 27°C to 29°C early in the month, cooling to about 25°C by late September. Nighttime lows drop to a comfortable 18°C to 19°C, and the sea remains warm for swimming at roughly 24°C to 25°C.
Sicily under wildfire risk alert. Photo: ShutterstockSicily also offers a huge variety of experiences, from historic cities and ancient archaeological sites to dramatic coastal scenery and some of Italy's best-known cuisine.
September can also provide a more relaxed experience than the busiest summer months, allowing you to quietly explore popular attractions and historic streets with fewer crowds while still enjoying plenty of pleasant weather.
For those who would prefer a city break rather than a traditional beach holiday, Valletta in Malta is another option.
Malta. Photo: Alex IgnaMalta can remain warm in September, with warm daytime highs averaging 28°C and comfortable overnight lows around 20°C to 22°C. The extreme summer heat begins to ease, while the Mediterranean sea stays warm at roughly 25°C to 26°C, making it ideal for swimming and outdoor exploration.
You can, therefore, combine sightseeing with time by the Mediterranean. You can spend the mornings exploring Valletta's historic streets, architecture and cultural attractions before heading to the coast for afternoon swims.
The compact nature of Malta also makes it possible to experience several different parts of the island during a relatively short trip.
Lanzarote, Spain. Photo: ShutterstockThe Canary Islands are famous for their year-round mild climate, and Lanzarote remains a reliable choice for travelers chasing warmth in September.
Temperatures are generally pleasant, with average daytime highs reaching around 28°C to 29°C and comfortable nighttime lows dropping to about 20°C to 21°C. Rainfall is extremely rare during this month, and the sea temperature is a pleasant 22°C to 23°C. The island's volcanic landscapes, beaches and resorts provide plenty of options for a week away.
September can also be a good time to visit before the later autumn and winter demand increases. However, travelers looking for the best prices may want to avoid the middle of the month, when UK schools have their half-term break and demand for Canary Islands holidays can increase.