Crete, Greece

When clients ask me where to go for hot weather in September, Crete is often one of my first recommendations.

As Greece's largest island, Crete enjoys warm temperatures well into autumn. September typically sees daytime temperatures around 28°C, while October often remains pleasantly warm at around 24°C.

Alongside beautiful beaches, you'll find charming villages, fantastic food, ancient history and luxury resorts perfect for couples and families alike.

Best for: Beach lovers, families, couples and food enthusiasts.

Cyprus

For those looking for guaranteed sunshine in October, Cyprus is hard to beat.

The island remains one of the warmest destinations in Europe during autumn, with temperatures often reaching the high twenties well into October.

The crystal-clear waters, excellent value hotels and relaxed atmosphere make Cyprus a fantastic choice for both couples and families.

Best for: Reliable sunshine, beach holidays and family-friendly resorts.

Sicily, Italy

If you're searching for a destination that combines sunshine, culture and incredible food, Sicily should be high on your list.

September is arguably one of the best times to visit. The intense summer heat begins to ease, making it more comfortable for sightseeing while still offering plenty of beach weather.

From historic towns and active volcanoes to beautiful coastlines and world-class cuisine, Sicily offers something for everyone.

Best for: Culture, food, history and scenic coastlines.

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve continues to be one of the UK's most popular destinations for September sunshine holidays.

Expect warm temperatures, golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and excellent golf courses. September is particularly appealing as the summer crowds begin to reduce while the weather remains fantastic.

The region also offers excellent value compared with many Mediterranean destinations.

Best for: Families, golfers and relaxed beach holidays.

Mauritius

If you're looking for a long-haul destination with sunshine, beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, Mauritius is an excellent choice.

September and October offer some of the island's best weather conditions, with warm sunny days, low humidity and comfortable temperatures.

Beyond the beaches, visitors can enjoy hiking, nature reserves, water sports and a fascinating blend of cultures.

Best for: Honeymoons, luxury holidays and multi-generational family trips.

Why September and October Are My Favourite Months to Travel

I genuinely believe September and October offer some of the best travel opportunities of the year.

You'll often benefit from:

• Fewer crowds
• Better availability
• Warm sea temperatures
• Comfortable sightseeing weather
• Excellent value compared with peak summer dates

My Top Tip

Don't automatically focus on August when searching for sunshine.

Many destinations are actually more enjoyable in September and October. You can often enjoy similar temperatures, quieter resorts, better service levels and a more relaxed atmosphere, all while avoiding the peak holiday rush.

If you're already dreaming of one last dose of sunshine before winter arrives, now is the perfect time to start planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is hot in September?
Crete, Cyprus, Sicily, the Algarve, Mauritius and Dubai all offer excellent sunshine during September.

Where is hot in October?
Cyprus, Dubai and Mauritius are among the best destinations for October sunshine, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunny days.

What is the best destination for autumn sun?
It depends on your travel style, but Cyprus, Crete and Mauritius consistently rank among my most recommended autumn sunshine destinations.