With lower costs and fewer crowds of tourists, the off-peak season is the ideal time to jet off abroad. While you’re less likely to have guaranteed sunshine, temperatures still remain reasonably high, if not perfect. Should you be pondering where to travel during ‘shoulder season’, we’ve carefully curated some of our favourites for a September holiday, from city breaks to long-haul getaways.

The Maldives

Whenever you visit the Maldives, one thing is for certain: you’re going to experience luxury like never before. However, with fewer guests at the resorts, you’ve got the option of having personal butlers and overwater villas, to name but a few.

While there are higher chances of rainfall and humidity, the landscape thrives. You’re able to enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets from around the world and see rich marine life as you snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is stunning year-round, famed for its radiant sunsets and unmistakable, white-washed architecture. Once the peak season has come to an end, visitors are welcomed for a more authentic experience, allowing you to appreciate uninterrupted cliffside views from infinity pools or bag a sunbed at Perissa Beach.

Crowds are much quieter from September onwards since most Greeks only travel during peak season when the island is at its warmest. This isn’t to say you won’t be able to top up your tan, since temperatures can still reach the high 20s. Everything is still open, and you can partake in any activity you would normally do in the months prior, including a trip to the Akrotiri prehistoric ruins, hiking the Fira to Oia trail, and heading on a sunset cruise.

Barcelona, Spain

With parades throughout the year, architectural wonders such as the Sagrada Familía, and as many tapas as you can eat, Barcelona is an exciting city with countless opportunities. It doesn’t matter when you choose to organise your trip, but the months of September and October are some of the best.

Highs around 26 degrees Celsius ensure you’re able to relax on Ocata Beach the entire trip, but also allow you to do a spot of sightseeing much more comfortably. Towards the end of September, there’s La Mercé, a street festival with live music and fireworks, that is entirely free. The food is still just as good, too, with must-try regional specialities such as pintxos and patatas bravas served throughout the day.

Ubud, Bali

You’ll have likely heard of Bali before if you have any travel-obsessed friends. It truly is a dream destination that suits a variety of individuals, whether you’re in search of a spiritual escape or an adventure-packed getaway. It’s for this reason that Bali can get fairly busy during peak season, hence many savvy tourists head to Ubud instead. It’s still got that lively atmosphere, but it is much quieter, and the temperature is relatively warm and breezy.

Recommended activities include cycling through the countryside on a guided tour or exploring the hidden waterfalls of Tegenungan and Tibumana, since the rainy season has yet to begin. After, immerse yourself in a guided meditation group or a daily yoga session to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.