Europe in September marks the beginning of shoulder season, offering mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the peak summer months. The weather in Europe in September is warm but comfortable, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. While Southern Europe still enjoys beach-friendly conditions, Western and Central Europe experience a transition into autumn, and Northern and Eastern Europe offer crisp air and scenic landscapes. It is a great month to visit Europe for those who want to enjoy pleasant weather without the high prices and packed tourist spots of summer. Additionally, it’s the time for harvest festivals, wine-tasting tours, and autumn foliage beginning to paint the landscapes.
1. Southern Europe in September
Countries Covered: Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Southern France, Croatia, Malta
Southern Europe in September is still warm and sunny, but without the extreme heat of August. Temperatures range from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F), and the Mediterranean Sea remains warm enough for swimming. The crowds start to thin out, making this an ideal time to visit popular destinations like Santorini, Amalfi Coast, Barcelona, and the Algarve. Outdoor dining, vineyard tours in Tuscany and Porto, and sailing in the Greek Islands or the French Riviera are fantastic experiences this time of year. City sightseeing in places like Rome, Seville, and Athens is much more pleasant without the scorching summer temperatures.
While most of September is sunny, rain showers may start appearing in late September, particularly in Northern Spain, Portugal, and some parts of Italy. Also, while crowds are lower, popular destinations like Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Barcelona still remain quite busy. There are light breezes along the Mediterranean, but stronger Mistral winds in Southern France and Meltemi winds in Greece can affect sailing and ferry schedules.
2. Western Europe in September
Countries Covered: France, UK, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands
Western Europe in September starts to transition into autumn, bringing mild temperatures, golden leaves, and a romantic atmosphere. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and rainfall increases slightly, particularly in the UK and Ireland. This is also the best month for wine lovers, as the grape harvest begins in France’s Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy regions. September is perfect for sightseeing in Paris, London, and Amsterdam, with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The countryside in France and Belgium starts showing early autumn colors, making it a beautiful time for scenic drives and wine tours. The Atlantic coast of France and Portugal offers great surfing conditions, as stronger winds create ideal waves.
However, the weather can be unpredictable in the UK, Ireland, and Belgium, with occasional rain showers and cloudy days. Some beach destinations along the Atlantic coast, like Normandy and Brittany, become less appealing for swimming due to cooler temperatures. Winds begin to pick up along the Atlantic coast, affecting Brittany (France), the Netherlands, and the UK’s coastline.
3. Central Europe in September
Countries Covered: Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary
Central Europe in September is mild and refreshing, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C (54°F to 75°F). It is one of the best months to explore cities like Vienna, Prague, and Budapest, as the summer crowds disappear. The Alps offer fantastic hiking conditions, with crisp air, fewer tourists, and golden landscapes. Munich’s Oktoberfest kicks off in late September, attracting beer lovers from around the world.
Rainfall increases toward late September, particularly in Switzerland and Austria and higher-altitude areas may see early snowfall. City temperatures can drop suddenly in the evenings, requiring layers. Winds are generally moderate, but mountain regions experience stronger gusts as colder air begins moving in.
4. Northern Europe in September
Countries Covered: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Scotland
Northern Europe in September starts cooling down significantly, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F). The Midnight Sun is over, and days gradually become shorter, but this is the month when the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) start becoming visible in places like Iceland, Norway, and Finland. With the tourist crowds gone, fjords in Norway, the Scottish Highlands, and Iceland’s dramatic landscapes become even more magical.
As the season changes, rain becomes more frequent, especially in Norway, Scotland, and Iceland. Winds along the coast can be strong, so outdoor activities like hiking in the Faroe Islands or Scotland’s Isle of Skye may require extra preparation. Some rural areas in Finland and Norway start closing summer tourism services, so planning ahead is crucial.
5. Eastern Europe in September
Countries Covered: Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Baltic States, Hungary, Poland
Eastern Europe in September offers warm days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). The Black Sea coast remains warm, making it a great alternative for a beach vacation, while inland cities like Budapest, Krakow, and Prague have pleasant autumn weather. Mountains in Romania and Slovakia are at their most beautiful, with early signs of autumn colors. Wine regions in Hungary (Tokaj), Moldova, and Bulgaria enter harvest season, offering wine tastings and local festivals.
Some Black Sea coastal resorts begin winding down, so while the weather is still warm, services may be more limited. Inland, thunderstorms can occasionally disrupt outdoor plans, particularly in Hungary, Poland, and Romania. Rainfall is light to moderate, with occasional thunderstorms in Romania, Hungary, and Poland. Winds are mild, but stronger coastal winds along the Black Sea can occur.
Europe in September is one of the best months to travel, offering comfortable temperatures, stunning landscapes, and unique seasonal experiences. Whether you're chasing the last days of summer on the Mediterranean, exploring vineyards in France, hiking in the Alps, or witnessing the Northern Lights, September provides perfect travel conditions without the peak-season crowds.
