Best Places to Visit in Europe in September

When summer starts to cool down, September is the perfect time to visit Europe. The weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller, it’s one of the best months to travel. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets of Budapest or sipping the charm of Lisbon, Europe in September has it all. From festivals to landscapes, the continent is buzzing. Looking for the perfect destination? This guide will show you the best places to visit in Europe in September.

Contents

1. Budapest
2. Prague
3. Venice
4. Lisbon
5. Barcelona
6. London
7. Florence
8. Krakow
9. Edinburgh
10. Milan

1. Budapest: A City in Autumn Colours

Budapest, the “Paris of the East” has stunning architecture, rich history and vibrant cultural experiences. In September the weather is warm but the summer crowds have thinned out, it’s the perfect time to take it easy. Walk along the Danube, take in the view from Fisherman’s Bastion and don’t miss a relaxing soak in one of the city’s famous thermal baths.

Boat tours along the Danube River are a great way to see Budapest’s bridges and landmarks including the grand Parliament Building. The weather is also perfect for outdoor activities like visiting Margaret Island or a local wine tour in the nearby vineyards.

In September Budapest comes alive with festivals, including the Budapest Wine Festival, a must for wine lovers. The city is also a great base for day trips to the Buda Hills and the pretty towns along the Danube Bend.

Must See in Budapest in September:

• Budapest Wine Festival at Castle Hill
• Danube River cruises with great views
• Relaxing in the Gellért Baths
• Walking tours of the Buda Castle District
• Outdoor concerts and performances

Do: Strolling, wine tasting, boat tours, festivals.

2. Prague: Fall Foliage and Timeless Charm

Prague is a city that will enchant you with its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. September is a great time to visit as the weather is mild and the summer tourists have gone. The Prague Castle complex, Charles Bridge and Old Town Square are must sees, and the city’s many beer gardens are a great place to unwind. Boat tours along the Vltava River give you a unique view of the city’s landmarks like the Prague Castle and the National Theatre. September is also the time to visit Prague’s gardens and parks, like Petřín Hill where you can enjoy the city views.

The city hosts the Prague Autumn Festival during this month, showcasing Czech music, theatre and dance. The warm days and cool nights are perfect for experiencing the local culture.

Must See in Prague in September:

• Prague Autumn Festival
• Vltava River boat tours
• Old Town and Prague Castle
• Petřín Hill gardens
• Local beer in beer gardens

Do: Sightseeing, beer, cultural events, walking.

3. Venice: Canals and Autumn Breeze

Venice, the city of canals, is even more magical in September. The summer heat has gone and the crowds are smaller, it’s the perfect time to take it easy in this romantic city. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit St. Mark’s Square and take a gondola ride through the canals.

A boat tour along the Grand Canal is a great way to see Venice’s unique architecture, including the Rialto Bridge and the beautiful palaces along the waterway. If you’re feeling adventurous you can take a Vaporetto to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello where you’ll find colourful houses and world famous glassblowing workshops.

September in Venice also marks the start of the Venice International Film Festival, attracting film lovers from all over the world. The slightly cooler weather is perfect for exploring the hidden corners of the city.

Must See in Venice in September:

• Venice International Film Festival
• Gondola rides along the Grand Canal
• Islands of Murano and Burano
• Hidden cafes and artisan shops in less crowded areas
• Seafood by the water

Do: Romantic strolling, film festival, canal cruises.

4. Lisbon: Sunsets by the Sea

Lisbon, on the Atlantic coast, is a city that combines history with modernity. September is the perfect time to explore the city’s seven hills, historic neighbourhoods and scenic viewpoints. The historic Belém district, home to the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, is a must see.

A cruise on the Tagus River gives you a great view of the city’s skyline, including the iconic Ponte 25 de Abril bridge. In the evening, head to the lively Bairro Alto neighbourhood, famous for its Fado music and nightlife.

September in Lisbon is perfect for enjoying the city’s outdoor cafes and terraces where you can sip a glass of Portuguese wine while watching the sunset. The city also hosts several festivals during this time, making it a cultural hub for visitors.

Must See in Lisbon in September:

• Fado music in Bairro Alto
• Tagus River boat tour
• Belém district
• Alfama’s narrow streets
• Portuguese food at local markets

Do: Historic neighbourhoods, river cruises, local food.

5. Barcelona: Mediterranean Views with Autumn Breeze

Barcelona is a city that offers modernist architecture, Mediterranean beaches and a rich cultural scene. In September the weather is warm but not too hot, perfect to enjoy the city’s beaches, parks and landmarks. Don’t miss Gaudí’s famous La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, and the historic Gothic Quarter.

The city is famous for its beachfront, a boat tour along the coast gives you great views of the city’s skyline and the Mediterranean Sea. You can also visit the nearby Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views and the Olympic Village.

September is a great time for outdoor activities like cycling along the coast or food festivals. The weather is perfect to explore the city’s parks, markets and museums without the summer heat.

Must See in Barcelona in September:

• Gothic Quarter’s hidden gems
• Boat tour along Barcelona’s coastline
• Sagrada Familia and Park Güell
• Food markets
• Outdoor activities in Montjuïc Park

Do: Sightseeing, art exhibitions, cultural performances.

6. London: Crisp Air and Classic Sights

London is a city that combines history with modernity, September is the perfect time to visit its many attractions. The weather is mild, perfect to walk through Hyde Park, visit the Tower of London or the British Museum.

A Thames River cruise gives you a unique view of the city’s landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Tower Bridge. September also marks the beginning of the London Design Festival where you can discover new art and exhibitions across the city.

From West End shows to Covent Garden dining, London is a city of endless possibilities. The city’s many parks and gardens are perfect to relax and you can also visit the nearby countryside for a day trip.

Must See in London in September:

• London Design Festival showcasing art and innovation
• Thames River cruises with views of major landmarks
• Tower of London and British Museum
• City’s parks and gardens
• West End theatre shows

Do: Sightseeing, art exhibitions, cultural performances.

7. Florence: A Renaissance City in Autumn Splendor

Florence is an open-air museum, home to some of the world’s most famous art and architecture. September is a great time to visit this Renaissance city, the weather is still warm but the crowds are smaller than in peak summer. The Uffizi Gallery, the Florence Cathedral and the Ponte Vecchio are must see landmarks.

The city centre is compact so it’s perfect to walk, and a boat tour along the Arno River gives you a unique view of the city’s historic buildings. September is harvest time so it’s a great time to visit Tuscany’s vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting.

The city’s many outdoor cafes are the perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing and you can enjoy authentic Tuscan food in one of Florence’s many trattorias.

Must See in Florence in September:

• Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David
• Arno River boat tour
• Wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside
• San Lorenzo Market* Local restaurants

Do: Art museums, wine tasting, walking tours.

8. Krakow: An Autumn Escape to Poland’s Heart

Krakow is one of Poland’s most beautiful cities, with medieval architecture, vibrant culture and rich history. September is a great time to visit as the city is still warm but less crowded. The Main Market Square, Wawel Castle and the Jewish Quarter are all must see.

Take a boat cruise on the Vistula River for a different view of the city. Krakow also offers great day trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

September in Krakow is the perfect time to enjoy the city’s cultural events, jazz concerts, art exhibitions and food festivals.

Must See in Krakow in September:

• Old Town and Wawel Castle
• Vistula River boat tour
• Day trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine
• Krakow’s jazz and art festivals
• Polish food at local restaurants

Do: Cultural sightseeing, historical sites, local festivals.

9. Edinburgh: Crisp Autumn Air and Rich History

Edinburgh with its dramatic hills, ancient castles and vibrant cultural scene is a perfect destination in September. The weather is cool but comfortable so it’s ideal to explore the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle and the beautiful Princes Street Gardens.

Take a boat cruise along the Firth of Forth to see the iconic Forth Rail Bridge. The Edinburgh International Festival also takes place in September, showcasing world-class performances in theatre, music and dance.

Edinburgh’s many pubs are perfect to enjoy a whisky tasting and the city’s open spaces are great for a leisurely walk.

Must See in Edinburgh in September:

• Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile
• Firth of Forth boat tour
• Edinburgh International Festival
• Scotland’s whisky culture in local pubs
• Arthur’s Seat hike for panoramic views

Do: Castle visits, whisky tasting, cultural performances.

10. Milan: Fashionable Fall Finds

Milan, Italy’s fashion capital, has stylish boutiques, world-class museums and historical landmarks. September is a great time to explore its shopping districts, the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Don’t miss the Duomo di Milano and the Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci.

Boat tours along the Navigli canals give you a different view of the city and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. September is also Milan Fashion Week so fashionistas from all over the world will be in town.

Milan’s parks, Parco Sempione, are perfect for a walk and you can enjoy a delicious Italian meal at one of the city’s many trattorias.

Must See in Milan in September:

• Duomo di Milano and the Last Supper
• Milan Fashion Week
• Navigli boat tour
• Milan’s boutiques and shopping districts
• Milanese food at local restaurants

Do: Shopping, art, cultural scene.

In September Europe offers a wide range of experiences, from city tours to boat rides and cultural festivals. Whether you like history, art, food or nature, this is the month to visit some of the best places in Europe.