September doesn’t have to mean back to school, back to work and back to routine. In fact, for savvy holidaymakers, it could be the perfect time to escape, with plenty of destinations still offering sunshine, warm temperatures and that much-needed holiday feeling, without the peak-summer price tag.
As the summer rush starts to ease, September can be a sweet spot for getting more for your money. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach break, a city escape or an all inclusive holiday where you don’t need to keep pulling your wallet out, there are plenty of ways to make your holiday budget stretch further.
So, if you’re craving one last dose of sunshine, or simply want to swap the September drizzle for somewhere considerably warmer, here are some destinations worth putting on your radar.
Turkey: 5* feeling without the 5* price tag
If getting maximum holiday for your money is the priority, Turkey is a destination that deserves a serious look. The Turkish Riviera combines long stretches of sandy coastline, impressive all inclusive resorts and plenty of sunshine, making it particularly well suited to travellers looking for a holiday where they can simply switch off. Resorts such as Antalya, Side, Alanya and Marmaris offer everything from lively beachfront hotels to luxurious all inclusive properties, with many resorts providing extensive facilities including multiple pools, restaurants, bars and entertainment.
September is also a great time to experience Turkey without the intensity of the height of summer. Temperatures remain warm enough for lazy days by the pool and dips in the sea, while evenings can be ideal for heading out for dinner or exploring the local area. And when you factor in the value offered by all inclusive packages, Turkey can be an especially smart choice for families and couples wanting to know that much of their holiday spending is taken care of before they even fly.
Spain: A classic that still delivers
When it comes to affordable sunshine, Spain is difficult to beat. From the Balearic Islands to the Canary Islands and the Costa del Sol, there are countless options for a September escape, whether you’re travelling with the family, as a couple or with friends. The beauty of choosing Spain is the sheer variety. You could spend your days relaxing beside a pool in an all inclusive resort, explore the winding streets of a historic town, hire a car and discover hidden beaches or simply find a spot on the sand and do absolutely nothing.
The Canary Islands can be particularly appealing for those chasing reliable warmth later in the year, while destinations such as Majorca and the Costa del Sol offer that classic Mediterranean holiday experience. September can also be a great time to visit some of Spain’s most popular destinations if you prefer your holidays a little less hectic. With the main summer rush beginning to subside, you can enjoy the restaurants, beaches and attractions without everything feeling quite so busy.
Cyprus: Keep summer going for a little longer
Not ready to say goodbye to summer? Cyprus could be just the ticket. With warm temperatures, beautiful beaches and a huge choice of hotels and resorts, Cyprus is a strong contender for a September sunshine break. Paphos, Protaras and Ayia Napa each offer something different, from laid-back coastal escapes to lively resort holidays.
For families, the island offers plenty of opportunities for beach days, boat trips and pool time, while couples can explore picturesque harbours, historic sites and local restaurants. September is also a good excuse to make the most of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Long lunches, sunset drinks and evening strolls along the seafront all feel considerably more appealing when you’re not worrying about the school-holiday crowds.
Tunisia: More holiday for less
For travellers willing to venture a little further afield, Tunisia can offer an excellent combination of sunshine, resorts and value. Hammamet, Sousse and Monastir are popular choices, with plenty of beachfront hotels and all inclusive options designed for travellers who want a straightforward sunshine escape.
One of the biggest attractions is the opportunity to get more included in the cost of your holiday. All inclusive packages can cover meals, drinks, snacks and entertainment, making it much easier to keep track of your spending once you’re away. Beyond the resorts, Tunisia also offers plenty of opportunities to experience something different, from colourful souks and historic medinas to beautiful beaches and desert landscapes.
Egypt: Sunshine seekers, this one’s for you
If your idea of a September holiday involves guaranteed-feeling sunshine, warm seas and a resort where you barely need to lift a finger, Egypt is worth considering. Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are particularly popular for their Red Sea resorts, where all inclusive packages make it possible to enjoy a week away without constantly reaching for your purse or wallet.
There’s also plenty to keep you occupied beyond the sun lounger. The Red Sea is famous for its underwater scenery, with opportunities for snorkelling and diving, while excursions can take you away from the coast to discover more of Egypt’s extraordinary landscapes and history. For anyone looking to extend their summer well beyond August, Egypt offers a tempting combination of sunshine, resort facilities and value.
How to make your September holiday budget go further
Choosing the right destination is only part of the savings. A few smart decisions when booking can help you squeeze even more value out of your September getaway.
Consider going all inclusive. If you know you’ll be eating out, enjoying drinks by the pool and keeping the kids entertained, an all inclusive package can make budgeting much easier and potentially save you money compared with paying for everything separately.
Be flexible with your dates. Even moving your departure by a day or two can sometimes make a significant difference to the overall cost of your holiday. If you have flexibility, compare different dates rather than automatically choosing the first option.
Look beyond the obvious resorts. Some of the biggest names in European tourism come with a premium price tag. Consider nearby resorts or lesser-known destinations where you can still enjoy the same sunshine and beaches without necessarily paying as much.
Don’t forget the Canaries. If you’re looking beyond mainland Europe for warmer weather, destinations such as Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura can be excellent options later in the year.
Compare the whole holiday, not just the headline price. A cheap-looking hotel isn’t necessarily the best-value option if you then need to spend more on transfers, food, drinks and activities. Look at what’s included before you book.
Your September escape starts here
September could be the perfect month to squeeze in one more holiday before the year gets away from you. With warm-weather destinations still in season and plenty of opportunities to find value, you don’t necessarily need a huge budget to enjoy a proper sunshine escape.
So, forget about waiting until next summer. September is for savvy savers, and your next holiday could cost less than you think.
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