Europe is a melting pot of different cultures and attractions, with something to offer all kinds of holiday makers. It is what makes it such a fascinating region to travel around and the weather conditions in September generally open more possibilities for tourism, with the cooler temperatures and reduced crowds making sightseeing a far more appealing prospect.
We asked our travel experts to name the best places to visit in Europe in September for varying styles of holiday which will hopefully provide some inspiration ahead of your next getaway...
Best City Break Destination: Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant city which has it all, offering a varied mix of beaches, cultures, stunning architecture and restaurants. This is without mentioning the renowned shopping districts filled with designer brands and the city's impressive sporting heritage, with holiday makers able to tour the Barcelona FC grounds and museum, or even catch the home team in action.
In terms of architecture, few cities can match the beauty of Barcelona. The city's Gothic Quarter in particular is a must see attraction with Barcelona Cathedral being the most noteworthy. It is also well worth paying a visit to Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece which now dominates the city skyline. You can see more of the designers work in Park Güell, a delightful park and the city's largest greenspace which covers an area of 17 hectares.
Food is a big focus in Barcelona too, with the city being home to 22 Michelin star restaurants and plenty of other less decorated eateries which are a little off the beaten track but well worth a visit. You can take advantage of various Tapas tours which include visits to some of these lesser known restaurants.
Best Foodie Holiday Destination: Porto, Portugal
On the topic of foodie highlights, anyone who has a love of fine food and even finer wine will be in their element during the September in Porto, Portugal. That's because September coincides with harvest season in the nearby Douro Valley wine region, with tours of the vineyards available along with the obligatory wine tasting sessions of course.
Many of the best restaurants in the city serve wines from this region, and there are plenty of fine eateries to choose from too. You'll find everything from relaxed, family run establishments serving traditional Portuguese food, through to Michelin star restaurants such as Euskalduna Studio which offers ultra fine dining.
The Vila Nova de Gaia region of the city is a particular highlight, with there being a wide selection of cafes and restaurants running along the Douro River which provides a picturesque backdrop. Here you can enjoy wine tasting sessions in the wine cellars and sample freshly caught grilled fish dishes in the small restaurants on the waterfront which emit a tantalasing aroma.
Best Beach Holiday Destination: Cyprus
If you are specifically planning a beach holiday, then it makes sense to head towards the hottest country in Europe in September which is traditionally Cyprus. During the month, Cyprus can reach temperatures which head into the mid-30s, making it the ideal destination for those who are looking for a break away from the UK's unpredictable forecast.
Luckily there are plenty of beautiful beaches in Cyprus to choose from, allowing you to really make the most of the favourable climate. Nissi beach is perhaps the most famous of these, being located just outside the party capital of Ayia Napa. Even during the day there is an energetic vibe here with Nissi beach also being a hotspot for watersports.
If you are looking for somewhere a little quieter, then you would be best heading to Lara Beach which is located on the North West coast of the island and can only be accessed by jeep. This ensures that it remains far less populated than many other seaside resorts despite the area's incredible natural beauty and wildlife scene, with Lara Beach being a green turtle nesting site.
Those holidaying with young children meanwhile may prefer Mackenzie Beach in Larnaca. Here you'll find all the facilities you could ask for along the scenic promenade with countless bars, restaurants, cafes, changing rooms and showers. It's relatively safe too with calm, shallow waters and a lifeguard presence between 10:30 and 18:00 throughout the month of September.
Best Cultural Holiday Destination: Edinburgh, UK
We are all guilty of failing to appreciate what lies on our very doorstep. However, you don't have to be an Anglophile to appreciate the many charms and attractions of the Scottish city of Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is renowned for its history which is reflected in the architecture of many of the city's most recognisable buildings. This includes of course Edinburgh Castle and the architecture of the buildings in the old town region which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes tours of the city all the more enjoyable, with the city having recently been named one of the most walkable in the world by Time Out magazine.
The thriving arts and design scene is also reflected by the many museums and galleries in Edinburgh which include the National Museum of Scotland and National Galleries of Scotland to name but two. Other key attractions that are worthy of consideration include Edinburgh Zoo, the Royal Mile and Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Another aspect of the Edinburgh holiday experience that far excels that which is on offer at many other destinations in consideration for European holidays in September is the accommodation. We have a range of luxury hotels and country estates in our portfolio of luxury Edinburgh accommodation which offer exceptional customer service and equally spectacular surroundings. Some of these even have their own golf courses in an area which is home to some of the most prestigious clubs in the world.
This is just a short selection of the many different best places to visit in Europe in September that you may want to take into consideration for your next getaway. Our travel experts are on hand and help to create tailor made September holidays packages to European destinations you have been dreaming of.