September is a great month for warm-weather travel. The summer crowds have thinned, prices start to ease, and yet the late summer sun keeps shining across dozens of destinations worldwide. If you’re wondering where is hot in September, this guide covers 20 places where average temperatures remain firmly above 25°C – and several where they push past 30°C.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
WHY TRAVEL IN SEPTEMBER 2026?
September sits in a sweet spot. Schools are back, peak holiday prices drop, and warm weather persists across much of Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and the tropics. Destination suggestions for September travel include Southern Europe and North Africa, where sunshine hours remain long and seas are at their warmest after summer heat.
Compared with August, September offers similar sunshine but cooler nights, less humidity, and fewer tourists at pools and restaurants. Southern Europe generally enjoys around 24–30°C in September, while tropical and desert zones often exceed 30°C. Though early autumn on the calendar, warm days continue across this list.
September 2026 falls outside the worst monsoon window in several destinations but overlaps with the Atlantic hurricane season. Always check local seasonal weather before booking.
QUICK LIST: 20 HOT DESTINATIONS IN SEPTEMBER (ALL ABOVE 25°C)
Here are 20 destinations at a glance, grouped by region, with their typical September daytime highs:
All figures are average daytime highs; real conditions can run a few degrees higher during heatwaves. Temperatures in warm spots often stay above 25°C to 30°C throughout the month.
TOP 5 HOT DESTINATIONS IN SEPTEMBER ABOVE 25°C
Cyprus – often the hottest place in Europe in September (29–34°C)
Cyprus regularly tops European “where is hot in September” lists. Cyprus reaches 34°C in September on peak days, while average highs around Paphos, Limassol and Ayia Napa sit closer to 29–32°C. Cyprus has average highs around 32°C in September for most coastal stations, and sea temperatures hover around 26–27°C.
Spend mornings exploring Paphos archaeological sites, lounge on sandy beaches like Nissi Beach through the afternoon, and hike short sections of the Troodos Mountains in the cooler hours. Evenings are perfect for harbourside meze at a leisurely pace. Rainfall is virtually zero in early September, making this a reliable choice for families and couples alike. The searing heat of midday means scheduling outdoor activities before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Top hotels in Cyprus:
Egypt (Hurghada, Sharm el Sheikh, Marsa Alam) – 30–32°C and dry desert skies
Red Sea resorts enjoy hot, dry weather in September with average temperatures of 30–32°C and virtually no rain. Sea surface temperatures sit around 29–30°C, offering excellent snorkelling and diving conditions with vibrant reefs and high visibility. Culture seekers can pair a Red Sea stay with a short trip to Luxor or Cairo, but plan sightseeing for early morning due to strong sun. The southern coast of the Red Sea, around Marsa Alam, tends to be quieter with pristine beaches and superb reef access.
Top hotels in Egypt:
Turkish Riviera – 28–30°C and stunning coastline
The Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, remains warm in September with temperatures around 28–30°C, offering a perfect blend of sun, sea, and history. This region boasts beautiful medieval towns, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, enjoy wine tasting in local vineyards, or take boat trips to discover hidden sea caves along the west coast. The relaxed pace of life here, combined with fewer visitors than in high summer, makes September an optimal time to experience the best resorts and soak up the midday sun in comfort. Whether you’re seeking cultural exploration or beach relaxation, the Turkish Riviera promises a fantastic and wonderful time.
Top hotels in the Turkish Riviera:
Greek Islands (Crete, Santorini, Rhodes & Kos) – 26–28°C and long sunny days
The Greek Islands experience daily temperatures between 25°C and 29°C in September, with 9–10 sunshine hours and bath-warm water. Athens experiences temperatures of 28°C in September too, making a city break an easy add-on.
Each island offers something different. Crete delivers big stunning beaches and the chance to hike Samaria Gorge in cooler September air among rugged peaks. Santorini is unbeatable for caldera sunsets and panoramic views. Rhodes averages 26–27°C with barely two rainy days all month, ideal for ancient ruins and all-inclusive stays. Kos suits relaxed beach holidays with nearby islands reached by quick ferry. Evenings in late September may need a light layer, but they remain comfortable for alfresco dinners.
Top hotels in the Greek Islands:
Spain and Portugal (Costa del Sol, Algarve, Madeira) – 25–28°C and fewer crowds
Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol (Malaga, Marbella) stays in the high 20s early in the month. The Algarve in Portugal enjoys average temperatures of around 28°C in September, with a stunning coastline, hidden coves and golden sands. Lisbon, Portugal has an average temperature of 26°C in September, making it a fine option for a city break with fresh seafood and hilltop villages nearby.
Beaches, golf courses and family attractions are open but much quieter than during the summer rush, giving great value and easier restaurant bookings. Madeira offers milder temperatures around 25°C, with levada walks through rolling vineyards and lush forests, dolphin-watching boat trips, and late-summer gardens – ideal for those who prefer warm rather than scorching weather.
Top hotels in Spain and Portugal:
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT HOT DESTINATION IN SEPTEMBER
Match your priorities to the right spot:
Consider factors beyond heat: local events in September 2026, budget, family-friendliness and visa requirements. Book popular Mediterranean destinations early – many travel specialists report that travellers now deliberately avoid the August peak and target September instead.
TRAVEL TIPS FOR HOT WEATHER IN SEPTEMBER
Dubai and the wider UAE are typically among the hottest options, often seeing average temperatures above 34°C. Red Sea Egypt and some Mexican and Caribbean resorts also reach 30–32°C. Remember that “hottest” doesn’t always mean most comfortable – consider humidity and your personal heat tolerance when choosing.
Cyprus, southern Greece (Crete, Rhodes), southern Spain (Costa del Sol) and Malta usually offer 26–29°C, which many people find hot but manageable. Madeira and parts of mainland Portugal sit slightly cooler at 23–26°C, ideal for those who prefer warm temperatures without intense heat.
Absolutely. September is excellent for Bali, the Maldives, Mauritius, parts of Sri Lanka and Southern Africa’s coasts, with warm seas and plenty of sunshine. Some long-haul regions like the Caribbean and parts of Southeast Asia are in wetter or stormier seasons, so research specific resorts and consider flexible booking policies.
In many destinations, yes. As schools return and peak summer demand falls, prices for flights and accommodation often drop. Bargains aren’t guaranteed everywhere – always-popular Mediterranean spots can still book up – so compare dates and book early for September 2026 where possible.
For European sun destinations, aim for at least 3–6 months ahead, especially for the first half of September when demand remains strong. For long-haul destinations, booking 6–9 months in advance is advisable, particularly for Indian Ocean resorts, popular safaris and dates adjacent to school holidays.
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