August, 24 2022 ( Updated September, 10 2024)
Fewer tourists, no scorching summer heat and reduced holiday home prices are just some of the reasons why it pays to book holidays in September.
Especially in the European islands, where unbelievable fares and crowds stop most of us from booking our vacations in the high season, planning in shoulder months like September make these otherwise inaccessible tourist hotspots perfect to dip in while they are still warm, pocket-friendly and uncrowded. But that isn’t all there is to vacationing on islands in this favourable month.
Amidst wild nature and picturesque villages, archaeological sites and historically rich islands, hidden local traditions and easy-going sightseeing, we have rounded up 7 amazing European islands that will be perfect not only for the sun and the sea but also for extra end-of-summer travelling!
Zlatni Rat, Croatia's Golden Horn with pearlescent sand and turquoise waters
In Dalmatia, with its fine white sand and turquoise water, the beautiful bay of Zlatni makes the Island of Brač, wildly popular during the season. Located close to the seafront town of Bol, Zlatni Rat offers great September weather to enjoy its beach, laid-back cafes, water sports, and the slow pace of island life. The island is also ideal for hiking with alpine excursions to the Dragon's Cave and the Glagolitic desert Blaca as well as walks from Splitska to the ancient quarries of Skrip.
The shimmering waters of the clear blue lagoon in Veli Lošinj
Amongst the many islands of the beautiful Kvarner Bay, the Island of Lošinj is known for its lush greenery, fragrant pine forests, crystal-clear waters and extraordinary healing climate that has made it a hub of health tourism.
In Čikat Bay, admire dolphins in their natural habitat and relax while sunbathing in the numerous cool pine forests. Also, on Lošinj is the Nature Park with neighbouring islands like Unije, Susak, Orjule, Vele and Male Srakane. And the island has effortless connectivity to the Adriatic’s second largest island, Cres. If you book your retreat in Veli Losinj, then the village’s excellent bus services to Cres Town can make you reach its untouched nature, secluded beaches, and picturesque villages in less than 2 hours!
The lovely Punat and the monastery island of Kosljun
The largest island in Croatia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Kvarner Bay, Krk, is known for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and charming towns like Krk town e Baška. It also has a vibrant night life in bar towns like Malinska and the popular monastery island of Kosljun in Punat! Book for longer vacations in Krk and explore islands like Rab, a picturesque island known for its sandy beaches and medieval town walls or Pag, famous for its unique lunar-like landscape, Pag cheese and lively summer party scene, particularly in the town of Novalja!
The golden-stone historic town centre of Noto, the 'baroque capital' of Sicily
Not only sun and sea, but Sicily has much more to offer. In fact, the cooler temperatures allow you to visit its picturesque villages and admire attractions that the sultry heat did not tempt you to see. Visit the honey coloured and timeless Sicilian Baroque towns of Val di Noto, unravel fascinating archaeological sites like the Temples of Selinunte, explore the Aeolian Island of Lipari with hiking and snorkeling, admire the volcanic city of Catania, dip in the beautiful seaside town of Giardini Naxos. Close to Giardini Naxos, there is another jewel, the gorgeous but small Taormina, with its Isola Bella!
Tip: The Pearl of Sicilian Baroque, Scicli, is also close to the ancient seaside villages of Donnalucata, Sampieri and Cava d'Aliga, easily accessible from these holiday homes and ideal for relaxing by the sea after visiting the town!
Can you spot the 'Bear Rock' of Palau?
Visiting Sardinia in September means the ideal time to enjoy what it is best known for, that is beaches but without the summer crowd. For lovers of outdoor activities and of course the sea, there is a huge choice. Several boat tours depart from Olbia to the famous Maddalena Archipelago and its islands - Isola Tavolara, Isola Molara and Punta Coda Cavallo. Meanwhile, trekking enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice in Gallura: in Palau, the famous Roccia dell'Orso (Bear Rock) trek will reward you with amazing views of La Maddalena Archipelago.
This is also a great time to take part in the numerous events and festivals that start in this period. Among the most characteristic ones are San Salvatore barefoot race, 'Sa Coja Antiga Cerexina' in Selargius and Autunno in Barbagia .
Tip: Top it off all with shopping and indulgent food sprees in the beautiful historic Catalan enclave of Alghero!
The coastal old town of Valletta overlooking the azure expanse of the sea
September is ideal to visit Malta. Without the spring rains and sirocco of July and August, it's the perfect time to enjoy the beaches. The island is home to some of the most mesmerising sights for your eyes like the famous Blue Lagoon; the Golden Bay with its sandy beach (not very common in Malta); the extraordinarily romantic sunsets of Gnejna Bay; Ramla bay, with its characteristic red sand, the Blue Grottos at Zurrieq as well as Selmun Bay and St Peter's Pool!
Not only sea and nature, but it is also worth visiting the cities. Valletta, the capital of Malta, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site while from the Barrakka Gardens there is a splendid view of the three famous cities of Malta: Vittoriosa, Senglea and Cospicua. Malta's old capital, Mdina, has wonderful old palaces and St Paul's Cathedral, while the historical city of Vittoriosa is home to the Church of St Lawrence, the Inquisitor's Palace and the Aviation and Maritime Museums.
Check out these holiday homes in Malta and if you are a digital nomad you might consider staying well beyond September.
The famous shipwreck beach Navagio and its turquoise sea
Given the fewer number of tourists, September is the ideal month to visit the islands that are usually very crowded, such as Zakynthos (Zante). The easy-to-reach island is always a good option because of its airports. Zante’s jaw-dropping beauty, the famous Navagio or the shipwreck beach and sandy coastline also make it ideal for family holidays. Even in Greece, those who choose the last days of summer to go on holiday will find peace and quiet and, above all, cheaper prices. Do keep in mind that the smaller islands, clubs and establishments start closing earlier than on the larger ones, but this is unlikely to happen before 20 September. If you want to learn more about the Greek islands read our guide.
Aerial view of the pink Elafonissi beach, Crete, Greece
So where have you decided to fly off in September?
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