Why September beats August
By September, the Mediterranean has spent all summer warming up, so the sea is often at its most inviting. Meanwhile, school holidays in much of Europe have ended, beaches are quieter and the intense midsummer heat starts to ease.
It's an excellent month for couples, friends and anyone travelling outside school terms. Many seasonal businesses stay open until October, so you still get the full summer experience with fewer people.
Mallorca
Mallorca is one of the Mediterranean's most varied islands. From Palma, it's easy to reach sandy bays in the south and east, coves with turquoise water along the coast and the mountain villages of the northwest. September is a great time to combine beach days with the first comfortable hiking of the season.
Palma itself is a superb city, with a cathedral overlooking the sea, an old town of narrow lanes and a growing food scene.
Crete
Greece's largest island has an enormous variety of beaches, from long sandy strands to remote coves on the south coast. Heraklion is a practical base for the north coast and for the famous Minoan palace nearby. September brings grape harvests and lively village life, and the warm sea lasts well into autumn.
With a rental car, you can explore mountain villages, gorges and beaches in a single day.
The Dalmatian islands
From Split, ferries and catamarans connect to islands such as Brač, Hvar, Vis and Šolta, each with its own character. Expect pine-scented coves, stone villages, vineyards and clear water. Island-hopping is easiest in late summer, when services still run frequently.
Split's Roman palace and waterfront make an atmospheric base for day trips or a gateway to a few nights on the islands.
Packing for the islands
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes for rocky beaches. If you're bringing snorkelling gear or paddleboards, check sports equipment options when booking; it can be added online for €45 per item. A Flight + Hotel package is an easy way to secure accommodation near the beach.
September is also a fine month for food. Grapes are harvested across the islands, figs and late tomatoes are at their sweetest and fish restaurants are less frantic than in high summer. Village festivals, often held in honour of local patron saints, can bring music, dancing and communal meals to the squares.
Good to know
- Book ferries or boat trips a day or two ahead on popular routes.
- Start beach days early to secure a good spot in popular coves.
- Late September brings cooler evenings; pack a light layer.