The Best Places to Travel in September

September is one of the best times to visit Puglia, offering warm weather, fewer crowds, and a vibrant mix of cultural and culinary events. The start of autumn is the perfect season to explore the region’s stunning coastline, historic towns like Lecce, Ostuni, and Alberobello, and its rich culinary traditions – without the hustle and bustle of peak summer.

Early in the month, the Grapes and Wine Festival in Locorotondo celebrates the season with wine, food, and traditional folk performances. Mid-September brings the Taranto Music Festival, a showcase of jazz, classical, and contemporary music held in atmospheric historic venues. Toward the end of the month, Ostuni lights up for the Festa della Madonna della Nova, featuring parades, fireworks, and bustling local markets.

During September, Canne Bianche offers Le Feste Pugliesi nights for guests, transforming the hotel into the heart of a traditional village festival. This immersive experience allows guests to savour authentic Apulian delicacies, experience traditional crafts, including lace embroidery, prickly pear sculptor and shoemaking, and enjoy traditional music and dancing performances. September also marks the start of autumn’s culinary highlights: porcini mushrooms, early truffles, fresh figs, grapes, and olives all find their way into local dishes, alongside exceptional seafood. With a slower pace, vibrant festivals, and stunning scenery, September is truly the perfect time to experience Puglia at its most authentic and unforgettable.

Once considered a necessary but unwelcome stopover (much like Bangkok), Manila is starting to become a destination in its own right. Due to unpredictable weather, autumn is the cheapest time to fly from the states (approximately $550) but the cooler temperatures won’t stop you from having an amazing time. The National Museum of the Philippines is free to visit and attractions across Manila are generally cheap – as is the food and accommodation. Recommended by Travel Expert Alex Jordan.

Everyone is talking about this destination, and for good reason. Georgia and the wider Caucasus region is one of those places with a mystical vibe. Whether hiking in the Caucasus Mountains or whipping up a feast from a farmer’s market in downtown Tbilisi – you’ll get a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy a relaxing escape. Small group travel is an excellent way to enjoy Georgia’s many riches, with expert guides taking you around the country and allowing you the chance to sample local cuisine.

There’s never been a better time to visit Albania, a country that is sure to top lists and fill up Instagram feeds in the near future, so visit while it’s still a bargain. Today the average cost of a meal comes in at around $7, while a beer will set you back approximately $1. With plenty of low-cost carrier options getting there is simple or, better yet, include it in your pan-European adventure to save even more. Once there you’ll be able to experience all the natural beauty and ancient history of cities like the capital Tirana. Even though it has undergone a rebrand and now officially known as Tiranë – we know the warm welcome and casual atmosphere is still prevalent. This is a vibrant mix of soviet-era architecture, modern design and unique cultural influences.

La Palma’s obscurity is every curious traveller’s gain. Don’t be fooled by the popularity of Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria – La Palma, the most north westerly Canary Island, is also considered the most beautiful. Accommodation at one of La Palma’s boutique hostels starts at around $25 a night, while a good meal from one of the local purveyors can cost as little as $10. Most of La Palma’s attractions are free, including the Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente, which includes a walk around its dormant volcano. Recommended by Alex Jordan.