September is an ideal month for planning a vacation to foreign countries. As summer gradually fades into autumn in the northern hemisphere, the weather becomes milder and more comfortable for travel. Moreover, the tourist crowds start to thin out, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. For Indian travellers seeking a blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and unique experiences, September offers a plethora of options. This article explores the best countries to visit in September, highlighting the attractions, weather conditions, and travel tips for each destination. Additionally, we will discuss the significance of international travel insurance and its benefits to ensure your journey is smooth and secure.
Price, crowd, and visa requirements for top countries to visit in September
Here's the updated table detailing the top countries to visit in September, including information on the cost, crowd season, and specific visa requirements for Indian citizens.
Country |
Cost |
Crowd season |
Visa requirements for Indians |
Italy |
Moderate to High |
Medium to High |
Schengen Visa required |
Greece |
Moderate |
Medium to High |
Schengen Visa required |
Spain |
Moderate to High |
Medium to High |
Schengen Visa required |
Portugal |
Moderate |
Medium |
Schengen Visa required |
France |
High |
Medium to High |
Schengen Visa required |
Switzerland |
High |
Medium to High |
Schengen Visa required |
Germany |
Moderate to High |
Medium |
Schengen Visa required |
Japan |
High |
Low to Medium |
Tourist Visa required |
Canada |
High |
Medium |
Tourist Visa required |
Australia |
High |
Low to Medium |
Visitor Visa required |
New Zealand |
High |
Low |
Visitor Visa required |
South Africa |
Moderate |
Low |
Tourist Visa required |
Thailand |
Low to Moderate |
Medium |
Visa on arrival for 15 days |
Indonesia |
Low to Moderate |
Low to Medium |
Visa on arrival for 30 days |
Mexico |
Moderate |
Low to Medium |
Tourist Visa required |
Turkey |
Moderate |
Medium |
e-Visa required |
Morocco |
Moderate |
Medium |
Tourist Visa required |
Ireland |
High |
Medium |
Tourist Visa required |
Iceland |
High |
Medium |
Schengen Visa required |
Vietnam |
Low to Moderate |
Medium |
e-Visa required |
Notes:
- Cost: Represents average travel expenses including accommodation, food, and transportation.
- Crowd season: Indicates the typical tourist density during September.
- Visa requirements for Indians: Details the specific visa type and application requirements for Indian passport holders.
This information can help plan your trip by balancing costs, avoiding peak tourist seasons, and ensuring you have the necessary travel documents.
Top 20 countries to visit in September 2024-25
Following are some of the best countries to visit in September:
Italy: Italy is one of the best countries to visit in September. The weather is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for exploring historic cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice. Tuscany’s vineyards and countryside are particularly beautiful during this time, and the grape harvest season adds a unique charm to your visit.
- Best places to visit: Rome, Florence, Venice, Amalfi Coast, Tuscany.
- Things to do: Explore ancient ruins like the Colosseum, enjoy art and history at the Uffizi Gallery, gondola rides in Venice, and relax on the beaches of the Amalfi Coast.
- Popular tourist spots: The Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Vatican City, Trevi Fountain, Pompeii.
- Must-see events: Venice International Film Festival (late August to early September), Rome Film Festival (October), grape harvest festivals in Tuscany.
Also, explore: Italy visa from India
Greece: Greece is another top destination in September, with its warm weather and fewer tourists. The Greek islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, offer stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Athens is perfect for exploring ancient ruins and indulging in Greek cuisine.
- Best places to visit: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Delphi.
- Things to do: Visit ancient ruins like the Parthenon, relax on beautiful beaches in Mykonos, explore the volcanic island of Santorini, and hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete.
- Popular tourist spots: Acropolis of Athens, Santorini Caldera, Mykonos Town, Palace of Knossos.
- Must-see events: Athens International Film Festival (September), Greek Independence Day (September 24th), and local harvest festivals.
Spain: Spain’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage make it one of the best countries to go in September. Barcelona and Madrid offer vibrant city life, while the coastal regions of Costa Brava and Costa del Sol provide beautiful beaches. The mild weather is perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Best places to visit: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, Valencia.
- Things to do: Explore Gaudí’s masterpieces in Barcelona, enjoy tapas and flamenco in Seville, visit the Alhambra in Granada, and relax on the beaches of Valencia.
- Popular tourist spots: Sagrada Familia, Alhambra Palace, Prado Museum, Park Güell.
- Must-see events: La Merced Festival in Barcelona (late September), Madrid Fashion Week, and various local harvest and wine festivals.
Also, read: Spain visa for Indians
Portugal: Portugal is ideal for a September vacation with its sunny weather and lesser crowds. Lisbon’s historic charm, Porto’s wine culture, and the Algarve’s stunning coastline make it a must-visit. The Douro Valley, known for its vineyards, offers scenic views and delicious wines.
- Best places to visit: Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, Algarve, Madeira.
- Things to do: Wander through the historic districts of Lisbon, taste port wine in Porto, explore the fairytale palaces of Sintra, and relax in the Algarve’s beautiful beaches.
- Popular tourist spots: Belem Tower, Porto’s Ribeira District, Pena Palace, Algarve coastline.
- Must-see events: Lisbon and Sintra Film Festival, Festa de São Mateus in Viseu, and local harvest festivals.
France: France is one of the best European countries to visit in September. Paris is delightful with its iconic landmarks and pleasant weather. The French Riviera, including Nice and Cannes, is perfect for beach lovers. Additionally, the wine harvest season in regions like Bordeaux and Burgundy is a great attraction.
- Best places to visit: Paris, Lyon, Nice, Bordeaux, Provence.
- Things to do: Visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, explore wine regions in Bordeaux, and enjoy the lavender fields in Provence.
- Popular tourist spots: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Montmartre.
- Must-see events: Paris Fashion Week (September), Bordeaux Wine Festival, and various regional harvest festivals.
Switzerland: Switzerland’s breath-taking landscapes make it a top choice in September. The weather is mild, and the summer crowds have dissipated, allowing for a peaceful exploration of cities like Zurich and Geneva. The Swiss Alps offer stunning hiking trails and scenic train rides.
- Best places to visit: Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Geneva, Zermatt.
- Things to do: Enjoy scenic train rides, explore the Old Town of Zurich, visit the Swiss Alps, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
- Popular tourist spots: Matterhorn, Lake Geneva, Rhine Falls, Chapel Bridge.
- Must-see events: Zurich Film Festival (late September), Montreux Jazz Festival (September), and various autumn fairs.
Germany: Germany is an excellent destination in September, especially with the famous Oktoberfest in Munich. The weather is pleasant for exploring Berlin’s historic sites, the Romantic Road’s charming towns, and the scenic beauty of the Black Forest. The Rhine Valley offers picturesque landscapes and delightful wine tours.
- Best places to visit: Berlin, Munich, Heidelberg, Cologne, Hamburg.
- Things to do: Explore Berlin’s rich history, enjoy Oktoberfest in Munich, visit historic castles, and experience vibrant cultural scenes in Hamburg.
- Popular tourist spots: Brandenburg Gate, Neuschwanstein Castle, Berlin Wall Memorial, Cologne Cathedral.
- Must-see events: Oktoberfest in Munich (late September to early October), Berlin Art Week, and various local wine festivals.
Japan: Japan offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions in September. Tokyo’s bustling city life, Kyoto’s historic temples, and Hokkaido’s natural beauty make it one of the best countries to travel to in September. The mild weather and fewer tourists add to the appeal.
- Best places to visit: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hokkaido.
- Things to do: Experience the vibrant culture of Tokyo, visit historic temples in Kyoto, explore Osaka’s food scene, and enjoy the natural beauty of Hokkaido.
- Popular tourist spots: Tokyo Tower, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Mount Fuji.
- Must-see events: Tokyo Game Show, Kyoto International Film Festival, and various local autumn festivals.
Canada: Canada’s vast landscapes and vibrant cities make it a great choice in September. Toronto’s diverse culture, Vancouver’s stunning natural beauty, and Montreal’s unique blend of French and English heritage offer something for every traveller. The fall foliage in places like Quebec and Ontario is particularly spectacular.
- Best places to visit: Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Banff.
- Things to do: Explore Vancouver’s natural beauty, enjoy cultural activities in Toronto, visit historic Quebec City, and experience the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park.
- Popular tourist spots: CN Tower, Banff National Park, Niagara Falls, Old Quebec.
- Must-see events: Toronto International Film Festival (early September), Vancouver International Film Festival, and various local autumn fairs.
Australia: Australia, transitioning from winter to spring, is perfect for a September visit. Sydney’s iconic landmarks, Melbourne’s cultural scene, and the Great Barrier Reef’s underwater wonders provide diverse experiences. The milder weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
- Best places to visit: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania.
- Things to do: Explore Sydney’s landmarks, enjoy Melbourne’s cultural scene, visit the Great Barrier Reef, and experience Tasmania’s natural beauty.
- Popular tourist spots: Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne’s laneways, Tasmanian Wilderness.
- Must-see events: Melbourne Festival, Sydney Running Festival, and various local arts, and culture events.
Also, explore: Australia tourist visa from India
New Zealand: New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures make it a top destination in September. The North Island offers geothermal wonders and Maori culture, while the South Island is known for its dramatic fjords and adventure sports. Queenstown, the adventure capital, is a must-visit.
- Best places to visit: Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, Rotorua, Christchurch.
- Things to do: Enjoy outdoor adventures in Queenstown, explore Maori culture in Rotorua, and experience the vibrant cities of Auckland and Wellington
- Popular tourist spots: Milford Sound, Hobbiton, Rotorua Geothermal Park, Auckland Harbour.
- Must-see events: Auckland Arts Festival, Wellington Jazz Festival, and various local spring festivals.
South Africa: South Africa’s diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes make it one of the best countries to visit in September. Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain and vibrant waterfront, along with the Kruger National Park’s wildlife viewing opportunities, offer unforgettable experiences.
- Best places to visit: Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Kruger National Park, Garden Route.
- Things to do: Explore Cape Town’s stunning landscapes, enjoy safari experiences in Kruger National Park, and visit the cultural hubs of Johannesburg and Durban.
- Popular tourist spots: Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, Robben Island, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
- Must-see events: Cape Town International Film Festival, South African Music Awards, and various local food and wine festivals.
Thailand: Thailand’s vibrant cities and stunning beaches are perfect for a September getaway. Bangkok’s bustling markets and grand palaces, Phuket’s beautiful beaches, and Chiang Mai’s cultural richness provide a mix of relaxation and adventure.
- Best places to visit: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui.
- Things to do: Explore Bangkok’s temples and markets, visit Chiang Mai’s old city and temples, relax on the beaches of Phuket and Krabi, and enjoy island life in Koh Samui.
- Popular tourist spots: Grand Palace, Wat Arun, Phi Phi Islands, Chiang Mai Night Bazaar.
- Must-see events: Vegetarian Festival in Phuket (late September), Bangkok International Film Festival, and various local cultural events.
Read more: Thailand visa from India
Indonesia: Indonesia, with its diverse islands and cultural richness, is ideal for a September holiday. Bali offers beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. The island of Java is home to historic temples like Borobudur, while the Komodo Islands provide unique wildlife experiences.
- Best places to visit: Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Lombok, Ubud.
- Things to do: Enjoy Bali’s beaches and rice terraces, explore cultural sites in Yogyakarta, and relax on the islands of Lombok and Ubud.
- Popular tourist spots: Uluwatu Temple, Borobudur Temple, Tanah Lot, Bali’s beaches.
- Must-see events: Bali Arts Festival, Jakarta International Film Festival, and various local festivals and cultural events.
Explore: Bali visa for Indians
Mexico: Mexico’s rich history and diverse landscapes make it one of the best countries to visit in September. Mexico City offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions, while the Yucatán Peninsula provides stunning beaches and Mayan ruins. The Pacific Coast, with cities like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, offers beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Best places to visit: Mexico City, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Guadalajara.
- Things to do: Explore ancient ruins like Chichen Itza, relax on the beaches of Cancun and Playa del Carmen, and enjoy the vibrant culture of Mexico City.
- Popular tourist spots: Chichen Itza, Teotihuacan, Cancun’s beaches, Frida Kahlo Museum.
- Must-see events: Day of the Dead Celebrations (early November), Mexico City’s Cultural Festival, and various local autumn events.
Turkey: Turkey’s rich history and diverse landscapes make it a top September destination. Istanbul offers a blend of East and West with its historic mosques and vibrant markets. The Aegean and Mediterranean coasts provide stunning beaches and ancient ruins, while Cappadocia offers unique landscapes and hot air balloon rides.
- Best places to visit: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ephesus.
- Things to do: Experience the vibrant culture of Istanbul, explore the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, relax on the beaches of Antalya, and visit historical sites like Ephesus.
- Popular tourist spots: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Rides, Pamukkale Thermal Pools.
- Must-see events: Istanbul International Film Festival, Cappadocia Balloon Festival, and various local cultural events.
Morocco: Morocco’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes make it one of the best countries to visit in September. Marrakech offers bustling souks and historic palaces, while the Sahara Desert provides stunning landscapes and unique experiences like camel trekking. The coastal cities of Casablanca and Essaouira offer beautiful beaches and historic sites.
- Best places to visit: Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen, Casablanca, Essaouira.
- Things to do: Explore the medinas of Marrakech and Fes, wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, and enjoy the coastal charm of Essaouira.
- Popular tourist spots: Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, Hassan II Mosque, Chefchaouen’s Blue Streets, Marrakech Souks.
- Must-see events: Marrakech International Film Festival, Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, and various local cultural events.
Ireland: Ireland’s lush landscapes and historic charm make it one of the best countries to go in September. Dublin offers a mix of historic sites and vibrant nightlife, while the countryside provides stunning scenery and charming villages. The Wild Atlantic Way offers one of the most scenic drives in the world.
- Best places to visit: Dublin, Galway, Cork, Killarney, Belfast.
- Things to do: Explore Dublin’s historic sites, visit the scenic landscapes of Galway and Killarney, and experience the culture of Belfast.
- Popular tourist spots: Dublin Castle, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Titanic Belfast.
- Must-see events: Dublin Theatre Festival, Galway International Arts Festival, and various local autumn festivals.
Iceland: For a unique experience, Iceland is an excellent choice in September. The weather is still mild, and the Northern Lights start to become visible. Reykjavik offers a mix of modern culture and historic charm, while the Blue Lagoon provides a relaxing geothermal spa experience. The stunning landscapes of geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Best places to visit: Reykjavik, Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Vik, Akureyri.
- Things to do: Explore Reykjavik’s vibrant culture, visit the stunning landscapes of the Golden Circle, relax in the Blue Lagoon, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Vik and Akureyri.
- Popular tourist spots: Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, Blue Lagoon, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
- Must-see events: Reykjavik International Film Festival, Iceland Airwaves Music Festival, and various local cultural events.
Vietnam: Vietnam’s rich history and stunning landscapes make it one of the best countries to visit in September. Hanoi offers a blend of French colonial architecture and ancient temples, while Ho Chi Minh City is vibrant with its bustling markets and historic landmarks. The scenic beauty of Ha Long Bay and the cultural richness of Hoi An are not to be missed.
- Best places to visit: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Da Nang.
- Things to do: Explore Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, enjoy the vibrant street food scene in Ho Chi Minh City, cruise through Halong Bay, and visit the charming town of Hoi An.
- Popular tourist spots: Halong Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town, War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.
- Must-see events: Mid-Autumn Festival (late September), Hanoi International Film Festival, and various local cultural festivals.
