24 Cheap Places to Visit in September 2025 (Perfect Weather!)

September is a favorite month for savvy travelers. The summer crowds in Europe start to thin out, hotel prices drop across the Caribbean, and tropical destinations become more affordable as kids head back to school. Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, a cultural city break, or an adventurous trip somewhere far-flung, this list highlights your best bets.

All of the destinations below have reliably good weather in September, low or moderate prices, and good infrastructure for visitors. We focus on places that are affordable and enjoyable without being overrun—so you can enjoy warm sunshine, lower crowds, and great value all in one trip.

About the hotel prices: All hotel rate estimates are for mid-September and reflect typical prices for well-reviewed properties (8.0+ guest rating on Expedia) in central or desirable locations. In cities with all-inclusive resorts, we’ve included those prices separately. This gives a realistic picture of what you can expect to pay without settling for poorly located or low-rated hotels.

This article was last updated in July, 2025.

New Video Featuring Many of the Destinations Below

We’ve started adding videos to go along with our most popular articles, and this one covers top destinations for September, October, and November. It features gorgeous footage and helpful insights about many of the places listed below—give it a watch!

New YouTube Price of Travel Video

The Caribbean & Mexico

If you’re dreaming of warm beaches, turquoise water, and great value, September can be an ideal time to visit the Caribbean and Mexico. It’s technically still hurricane season, but storms are rare in most areas, and hotel prices are at their lowest of the year. Resorts are far less crowded too, making it a surprisingly peaceful time to go—if you’re flexible.


Cancun, Mexico

Still one of the best-value beach destinations in the Americas, with great weather in September and easy access from most major cities.

  • September avg high: 91°F/33°C
  • September avg low: 76°F/24°C
  • September avg precip: 6.9″/15.0cm

September is technically part of hurricane season in the Caribbean, but serious storms are very rare, and light daily rain showers are more typical. Prices at all-inclusive resorts are at their lowest of the year, and the beaches and pools are far less crowded than in high season. This part of Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a great place to unwind on a budget – especially if you book something flexible in case the forecast looks rough.

Honestly, Cancún is probably the best choice for most travelers, especially first-timers. It’s extremely easy to reach, with dozens of direct flights each day, and everything you need – resorts, restaurants, tours – is within an hour of the airport. The Hotel Zone can feel a bit generic though, with huge hotels and time-share towers dominating the beach. It’s perfect if you just want to stay put and enjoy the sea views, but you won’t find much local flavor between the resorts.

My personal favorite area is Playa del Carmen, about an hour south by shuttle or taxi. The beach there isn’t quite as postcard-perfect, but the town is built into a former fishing village and has way more charm. You’ll find small bars, cafés, and boutiques along the pedestrian-only 5th Avenue, and it actually feels like you’re visiting Mexico, not just a hotel compound. Tulum is another great alternative if you’re looking for something more stylish or bohemian – it’s pricier, but far more unique than Cancún itself.

>>>New: Guide to choosing where to stay in Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, or Cozumel

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$92 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$194 per night for two people

>>>Check current Cancun resort and package deals


Los Cabos, Mexico

A favorite for Americans and Canadians, with dependable weather, great beaches, and a clear divide between party energy and quiet relaxation.

  • September avg high: 91°F/33°C
  • September avg low: 75°F/24°C
  • September avg precip: 3.2″/8.2cm

September is technically Cabo’s rainiest month, but that’s a relative term – showers are usually brief, and temperatures hover around 90°F with plenty of sun. Hotel prices drop sharply after summer, and crowds are much thinner, making it one of the best times of year for a quieter escape to this desert-meets-ocean paradise on the Baja Peninsula.

I really love the Cabo area and have visited many times – and honestly, where you stay makes all the difference. If you want nightlife, great restaurants, and easy access to boat tours or water adventures, stay near the marina in Cabo San Lucas. That area has a party-town reputation, but it’s also nicer than many people expect, with scenic waterfront views and everything walkable.

On the other hand, if you’re mainly looking to relax and the idea of Señor Frog’s and Cabo Wabo doesn’t excite you, San José del Cabo is probably a better fit. It’s closer to the airport, quieter, and more spread out, with more affordable hotels and a much more laid-back vibe. Both towns share the same beautiful coast, but they offer very different experiences – so it’s worth choosing based on the kind of trip you’re after.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$83 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$184 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$220 per night for two people

>>>Check current Cabo resort and package deals


Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

One of the best-value all-inclusive resort destinations in the world, especially for travelers looking to unwind in comfort without spending a fortune

  • September avg high: 89°F/32°C
  • September avg low: 76°F/24°C
  • September avg precip: 5.4″/13.7cm

The weather in September is warm and humid, but serious storms are rare. This is the off-season, which means deep discounts on flights and resorts—especially at all-inclusive properties that dominate the Punta Cana coastline. If you want to relax on a postcard-perfect beach with a piña colada in hand and very few decisions to make, this is one of the best places to do it.

Punta Cana is extremely impressive and absolutely worth considering – but it’s also kind of a vacation factory. Nearly all the resorts are massive complexes, often with four or five individual hotels grouped into one sprawling beachfront development. Many have over 2,000 rooms and are run by professional Spanish chains that know exactly how to deliver a seamless guest experience. You get a ton for your money: beautiful rooms, excellent food, huge pools, and some of the best resort staff in the business.

What you don’t get much of is local charm or cultural flavor. These resorts are designed for comfort and consistency, not personality. Most guests stay on-property the entire time, and many come back year after year because the value is just that good. If you want something exotic or unique, this may not be the right choice. But if your goal is to fully relax in a beautiful place without breaking the bank, Punta Cana is tough to beat.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$46 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$74 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$181 per night for two people

>>>Check current Puerto Plata resort and package deals


Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica has stunning beaches and a fun-loving vibe, but your experience here will depend heavily on where you stay—and what you’re looking for

  • September avg high: 89°F/32°C
  • September avg low: 76°F/24°C
  • September avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

September is the heart of hurricane season in the Caribbean, but actual storms are rare in Jamaica and showers tend to pass quickly. Hotel and flight prices are at their yearly lows, so this can be a great time to score a deal at one of the island’s many all-inclusive resorts. Just be aware: Jamaica is not one-size-fits-all.

Montego Bay is the main airport hub, but the resorts are actually spread out across a large stretch of the island’s north and west coasts, from Ocho Rios to Negril. Being perfectly honest, the central tourist area of Montego Bay—called the “Hip Strip” — is a letdown, and the town center in Ocho Rios isn’t much better. If you just want to check into a big beach resort and stay there all week, that’s a perfectly valid (and popular) way to do Jamaica. The Sandals resorts, in particular, are excellent — I’ve stayed at several and the service and quality are consistently outstanding.

But if you want to actually experience Jamaica and have the freedom to explore on foot, Negril is the way to go. The 7-Mile Beach is lined with small hotels, beach bars, restaurants, and shops, and you can walk between them freely. It has that old-school Caribbean vibe, and every night ends with a sunset over the sea. Just know that Jamaica is also infamous for having the Caribbean’s most persistent beach vendors and shopkeepers, especially in Negril. Some people love the hustle and energy — others go once and never again. Either way, if you’re prepared for it, the experience can be unforgettable.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$64 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$106 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$198 per night for two people

>>>Check current Montego Bay resort and package deals


Mexico City, Mexico

A world-class capital with prices that feel almost too good to be true—especially if you love food, culture, and walkable neighborhoods

  • September avg high: 72°F/22°C
  • September avg low: 53°F/12°C
  • September avg precip: 5.7″/14.3cm

September is the tail end of the rainy season, but most showers come in the late afternoon or evening, and daytime weather tends to be mild and pleasant thanks to the city’s elevation. This is a city built for exploring on foot, and the crowds are nothing like you’d find in European capitals.

I’ve been a couple of times and even recently made a video about how amazing it is – check it out on the Price of Travel YouTube channel. What stands out most is how much nicer Mexico City is than most people expect. At least in the enormous historic, commercial, and tourist district, it’s clean, beautiful, and very safe. The food is out of this world – assuming you aren’t some kind of psycho who doesn’t like Mexican food – and most of it is shockingly affordable. Bus tours, museum tickets, even a visit to the stunning castle in the middle of the huge central park… it all costs far less than it would in most other capitals. And with mild weather almost year-round, Mexico City really should be on more people’s lists.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$25 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people

United States

We mainly focus on international recommendations, but one U.S. city stands out as world-class, affordable, and home to some of its best weather of the year in September.


New Orleans, USA

One of America’s best destinations – and not just during Mardi Gras

  • September avg high: 87°F/31°C
  • September avg low: 71°F/22°C
  • September avg precip: 5.6″/14cm

While much of the southern U.S. is still hot and humid in early September, New Orleans begins to cool off just enough to be enjoyable again – especially in the latter half of the month. Crowds are lighter than in spring, but the city still hums with energy.

You can stroll the French Quarter, ride the streetcars, enjoy some of the world’s best live music, and eat your way through Creole and Cajun classics without having to book months in advance. It’s a city that feels like nowhere else in the U.S., and it’s one of the best cultural destinations in North America at any time of year.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$93 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$97 per night for two people

Central & South America

September is shoulder season in much of Latin America, which means fewer crowds and lower prices in many of the top tourist cities. While it’s still the tail end of the rainy season in some places, you’ll often find sunny stretches and great deals—especially in cities with rich culture, colonial charm, and warm temperatures year-round.


Cartagena, Colombia

Historic charm, Caribbean beaches, and very affordable prices

  • September avg high: 87°F/31°C
  • September avg low: 78°F/26°C
  • September avg precip: 5.2″/13.0cm

September is still part of Cartagena’s rainy season, but showers usually come in brief bursts and don’t disrupt travel plans too much. Better still, hotel rates drop even further in September, so you can often stay in charming areas for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.

The historic walled city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with colorful colonial architecture and romantic cobblestone streets. Combine that with warm weather, beaches nearby, and excellent seafood – and you’ve got one of the best tropical cities in the Americas for budget travelers.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$39 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$56 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$173 per night for two people

>>>Cartagena hotel and resort deals


Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Possibly the most breathtakingly beautiful setting of any city on earth—and I’ve been to just about all of them

  • September avg high: 81°F/27°C
  • September avg low: 64°F/18°C
  • September avg precip: 2.4″/6.0cm

In September, Rio’s winter is wrapping up, so you’ll get mild temperatures in the upper 70s°F, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine. It’s a great time to explore the beaches, mountains, and vibrant neighborhoods before the summer crowds and prices return.

Rio de Janeiro honestly looks like a movie set – beaches, lush mountains, bays, and the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue all come together in a way that feels almost too cinematic to be real. So by all means, go. But Rio also struggles with petty crime and, at times, more serious issues. More than in most cities, it’s crucial to book a hotel in a safe, well-lit neighborhood and stay aware of your surroundings once you arrive. If you do that, you’ll likely be fine – and it’s absolutely worth the visit. Rio is also surprisingly affordable for a major global destination, especially when it comes to food, transit, and accommodations. Just go in with a little extra caution and you’ll come away with an unforgettable experience.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$43 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$68 per night for two people

Europe

Europe in September is a sweet spot – summer crowds are thinning, prices are dropping, and the weather is still fantastic in most of the continent. Whether you’re after beaches, culture, food, or festivals, this is one of the best months to explore southern and central Europe without the midsummer chaos. Below are some of the top-value picks for the month.


Lisbon, Portugal

Sunny, scenic, and surprisingly affordable for Western Europe

  • September avg high: 79°F/26°C
  • September avg low: 63°F/17°C
  • September avg precip: 1.1″/2.8cm

Lisbon is one of Europe’s most appealing capital cities and still one of its best bargains, especially in shoulder season. September brings warm, dry days that are ideal for sightseeing in the hills of Alfama or lounging at one of the nearby beaches.

Thanks to Portugal’s relatively low cost of living and solid infrastructure, Lisbon offers outstanding value on hotels and food. You can enjoy amazing local seafood, ride vintage trams through colorful neighborhoods, and catch sunset views from one of the many scenic overlooks—all without draining your travel budget.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$93 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$151 per night for two people

Madrid, Spain

Big-city culture, parks, and tapas – without the summer heat

  • September avg high: 79°F/26°C
  • September avg low: 59°F/15°C
  • September avg precip: 1.1″/2.8cm

Spain’s capital comes alive again in September after the slower summer months. With locals back from vacation and the weather cooling to a pleasant level, it’s a great time to explore Madrid’s wide boulevards, historic plazas, and world-class museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia.

Prices are reasonable and crowds are thinner than in peak season, making it easier to enjoy the city’s famous tapas bars and late-night energy. And with Spain’s excellent train system, Madrid also makes a perfect starting point for a broader Iberian trip.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$86 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$157 per night for two people

Barcelona, Spain

A perfect blend of beach, architecture, and urban energy

  • September avg high: 78°F/26°C
  • September avg low: 62°F/17°C
  • September avg precip: 3.4″/8.5cm

September might be the very best time to visit Barcelona. The summer crowds begin to thin, but the beaches are still buzzing and the weather is warm enough for swims, strolls, and sangria on sunny terraces. Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell feel a bit less mobbed, too.

Prices drop slightly from their summer highs, and with major festivals like La Mercè near the end of the month, there’s still plenty of local excitement in the air.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$130 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$183 per night for two people

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

A warm, relaxing European island escape that’s surprisingly affordable—especially for a place that’s part of Spain

  • September avg high: 82°F/28°C
  • September avg low: 70°F/21°C
  • September avg precip: 0.2″/0.5cm

Tenerife highlights

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, enjoys ideal weather in September: sunny days in the low 80s°F and little to no rain. It’s a favorite getaway spot for northern Europeans looking to extend their summer without flying too far. With cheap flights from many major cities and plenty of beachfront hotels, it’s a solid pick for budget-conscious travelers chasing the sun.

I spent almost a month there and found it very pleasant – but it’s not the place to go if you’re craving nightlife or cultural sightseeing. If you’re the type who loves Ibiza or even Mallorca, Tenerife might feel too quiet. Aside from the volcano and some scenic drives, there aren’t many traditional “points of interest.” What Tenerife does offer is relaxation. It’s where people go to escape the cold, unwind on the beach, and take it easy. If that sounds like your kind of trip, it’s a great value and a very mellow experience.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$117 per night for two people
  • – All-inclusive resorts from: US$233 per night for two people

Athens, Greece

Historic wonders, lively neighborhoods, and warm September sunshine

  • September avg high: 85°F/29°C
  • September avg low: 63°F/17°C
  • September avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

Athens in September is a great call—the summer crowds have thinned, but the weather is still perfect for long days of sightseeing or evenings on a rooftop with Acropolis views. It’s an ideal time for a first trip to Greece or a stop on a longer island-hopping itinerary.

You’ll find good-value hotels in central areas like Plaka and Monastiraki, close to major ruins, museums, and restaurants. Street food like souvlaki and gyros also helps stretch your budget while keeping things delicious.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$79 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$116 per night for two people

Prague, Czechia

Fairytale charm, cooler weather, and excellent value in the heart of Europe

  • September avg high: 67°F/19°C
  • September avg low: 50°F/10°C
  • September avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

September is one of the best times to visit Prague, with mild weather, fewer crowds than peak summer, and a vibrant cultural scene kicking off after the August slowdown. The historic center is stunning and walkable, with plenty of budget-friendly restaurants and beer gardens to explore.

Accommodation in Prague remains among the best values in Europe, especially just outside the busiest tourist zones. Even well-located 3- and 4-star hotels near Old Town often come in at surprisingly affordable rates.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$62 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$80 per night for two people

Split, Croatia

Sunny Adriatic charm with ancient ruins and island access

  • September avg high: 77°F/25°C
  • September avg low: 65°F/18°C
  • September avg precip: 2.7″/6.8cm

Split offers a fantastic mix of history, beach time, and island-hopping—all with typically sunny September weather. The crowds thin out a bit after August, so it’s easier to enjoy the historic Diocletian’s Palace and relaxed waterfront promenades without the midsummer chaos.

Hotel rates start to dip too, especially for places just outside the center. September is also a great time to take day trips to nearby islands like Hvar or Brač, with ferry schedules still running frequently.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$92 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$133 per night for two people

Krakow, Poland

Historic, budget-friendly, and full of character

  • September avg high: 67°F/19°C
  • September avg low: 50°F/10°C
  • September avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm

Kraków remains one of Europe’s best travel bargains, with beautifully preserved medieval architecture, lively squares, and excellent food and drink at surprisingly low prices. September brings cooler but still pleasant weather and fewer tour groups clogging the Old Town.

This is also a great month for visiting nearby sites like Auschwitz or the Wieliczka Salt Mine, both of which are much easier to access without peak-season lines. Overall, Kraków offers incredible value for a European cultural city break.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$52 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$85 per night for two people

Budapest, Hungary

Stunning architecture, relaxing spas, and excellent value

  • September avg high: 72°F/22°C
  • September avg low: 53°F/12°C
  • September avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

With grand boulevards, ornate bathhouses, and sweeping views of the Danube, Budapest feels regal yet welcoming. September is one of the best months to visit, offering warm days, cool evenings, and lighter crowds compared to the summer peak.

Budget-minded travelers will appreciate how far their money goes here—especially when it comes to food, public transport, and attractions like the thermal spas and historic castle district. It’s easy to fall in love with this city without falling into debt.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$47 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$78 per night for two people

Istanbul, Turkey

A magical blend of East and West, with great weather and prices

  • September avg high: 77°F/25°C
  • September avg low: 60°F/16°C
  • September avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

Straddling two continents, Istanbul is one of the most fascinating cities on earth – and September is one of the best times to be here. The summer crowds begin to fade, the weather is warm but manageable, and the sunsets over the Bosphorus are spectacular.

Explore ancient sights like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, shop for spices and souvenirs in the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy rooftop dinners with sweeping skyline views. Istanbul offers exceptional value in both food and accommodation.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$56 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$69 per night for two people

Antalya, Turkey

Sunshine, beaches, and bargains on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast

  • September avg high: 89°F/32°C
  • September avg low: 66°F/19°C
  • September avg precip: 0.6″/1.5cm

Antalya is one of Turkey’s top beach resort areas, and September is a prime time to visit. The sea is still warm, the skies are clear, and most summer tourists have gone home—meaning lower prices and more space to yourself.

You’ll find a historic old town, scenic harbor, excellent food, and some of the most affordable beach resorts in Europe. Whether you’re here to relax or explore, Antalya is a standout choice in September.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$76 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$121 per night for two people

Africa

September is an excellent time to visit parts of North Africa, where the summer heat finally begins to ease and hotel rates remain appealing. Whether you’re after exotic markets, rich history, or dramatic desert landscapes, this is a rewarding time to explore without the scorching temperatures or high-season crowds.


Marrakech, Morocco

Exotic, affordable, and finally not too hot

  • September avg high: 91°F/33°C
  • September avg low: 64°F/18°C
  • September avg precip: 0.3″/0.8cm

Summer in Marrakech can be brutally hot, but September brings a welcome cooldown—especially in the latter half of the month—while still offering sunshine and dry skies. The city’s medina is packed with historic sites, colorful markets, and photogenic riads that offer great value for money.

While Marrakech is slightly more famous than Fez, they’re quite similar, so it’s usually best to just focus on one for your trip. Marrakech’s weather in September tends to be more comfortable, and it’s easier to reach for most visitors thanks to better international air connections.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$87 per night for two people

Middle East

By September, the intense summer heat across the Middle East finally starts to ease—especially in elevated cities like Amman. It’s a great time to explore historical sites and natural wonders without roasting in the midday sun. Hotel prices begin creeping up again as the high season approaches, but they’re still quite reasonable, especially compared to the peak months to come.


Amman, Jordan

Historic, affordable, and finally comfortable in September

  • September avg high: 87°F/31°C
  • September avg low: 64°F/18°C
  • September avg precip: 0.0″/0.0cm

Jordan’s capital is mostly a jumping-off point for iconic sights like Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum, but Amman itself offers a unique blend of old and new. In September, the scorching summer temperatures finally back off, especially at night, making it a much more pleasant time to explore. Rain is basically nonexistent, so you won’t need to pack an umbrella.

Even though Amman is generally only used as a staging area for further trips to Wadi Rum and Petra, it remains one of the better bargains in the Middle East for the budget traveler. Hotel prices are very reasonable, especially through the 3-star range, although September starts the beginning of high season so it’s best to book well ahead.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$38 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$92 per night for two people

Asia

September can be a bit of a mixed bag in Asia depending on where you go. Many parts of Southeast Asia are still in rainy season, but the showers tend to taper off toward the end of the month. Meanwhile, popular destinations like Bali, Beijing, and central Nepal start to hit their weather sweet spot. If you’re looking for something exotic, affordable, and still warm, this part of the world has some great options—just be sure to check the weather patterns for your specific dates.

>>>See also: 11 Best Asia destinations in September


Pokhara, Nepal

A peaceful trekking hub with great scenery and low prices

  • September avg high: 79°F/26°C
  • September avg low: 66°F/19°C
  • September avg precip: 7.4″/18.5cm

If you’re planning to hike the Annapurna Circuit or just looking for a quiet place to unwind in the foothills of the Himalayas, Pokhara is ideal in late September. The first part of the month can still be rainy, but by the second half, the weather turns drier and cooler—very similar to October, which is the start of the peak trekking season.

Even during the busiest times of year, Pokhara has a surplus of budget-friendly hotels, so in September you’ll have your pick of excellent places at low prices. Add in cheap local food, tranquil lakeside cafés, and a laid-back vibe, and it’s easy to see why so many travelers linger longer than planned.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$33 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$42 per night for two people

Kuta, Bali, Indonesia

Still one of the most beautiful and budget-friendly tropical destinations in the world—if you choose your location wisely

  • September avg high: 85°F/29°C
  • September avg low: 76°F/24°C
  • September avg precip: 1.6″/4.0cm

September is one of the best times of year to visit Bali. It’s the tail end of the dry season, so you’ll get warm, sunny weather with relatively low humidity and fewer crowds than in July or August. It’s also an incredible value: Bali remains one of the few places where you can get a quality hotel room, massage, and fresh seafood dinner for a fraction of what you’d pay in the West.

I’ve spent a lot of time in Bali going back to the late 1990s, and while I still recommend it, I do so with a bit more caution now. A few years ago, I rented a pool villa in Seminyak for a month, and while it’s still beautiful, the traffic situation has become a serious issue. The little roads connecting the villages weren’t designed for this many cars and scooters, so getting from one place to another can be a real hassle. If your plan is to party with Australian surfers and enjoy a surprisingly nice hotel room for under US$25 per night, Kuta, Legian, or Seminyak are solid picks. But if you want to explore the island – especially places like Ubud or the temples inland – it’s better to avoid those areas entirely.

If your budget allows, the Nusa Dua area in the south is a purpose-built resort zone that’s still calm, clean, and peaceful. Or for an old-school Bali experience without the crowds or gridlock, head to Lovina Beach on the north shore. It’s even more affordable and still feels like Bali used to—before the boom.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$14 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$25 per night for two people

Beijing, China

Pleasant temperatures, low rainfall, and incredible historic sights

  • September avg high: 86°F/30°C
  • September avg low: 66°F/19°C
  • September avg precip: 3.0″/7.5cm

Summer in Beijing can be brutally hot, humid, and smoggy—but by September, conditions are far more pleasant. With daytime highs in the low 80s and clear blue skies becoming more common, it’s one of the best times of the year to explore the capital.

This is a city that rewards curiosity. You’ve got the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and the Great Wall all within easy reach. And beyond the obvious sights, Beijing offers fantastic food, sprawling parks, bustling night markets, and traditional hutong neighborhoods to wander through. It’s still relatively affordable too, with hotel standards noticeably higher than in much of Southeast Asia.

Hotel prices in September

  • – 3-star hotels from: US$58 per night for two people
  • – 4-star hotels from: US$77 per night for two people

Can you travel a bit later? October opens up even more great options

September is a great month to travel, with smaller crowds and better prices than in summer. But if your schedule is flexible, October can offer even more tempting choices—especially in places that are still too hot or rainy in September. Check out our list of cheap destinations with great October weather to see what might work even better for your trip.

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