Where To Go Now: 10 Destinations For September To December

Nestled between the summer high season and the winter holiday rush, September traditionally signals the start of an extended travel doldrum – but one that comes with its own set of perks. Smaller crowds, lower prices and milder temperatures coax intrepid travellers both north and south, along with romantic autumn scenery and a bevy of inspired festivals and events at every turn. Whether you’re clinging to the last sunny days or impatiently seeking snow-capped views, there’s much to look forward to – and travel for – in the coming months.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Just a few months before sub-zero temperatures and endless nights hit this fascinating island country, you’ll find everything that makes its capital, Reykjavík, so magical – but under much kinder conditions. Particularly in September, nature lovers will be able to hike glaciers, spot icebergs, explore lava caves and, if they’re lucky, observe the Northern Lights, thanks to the clear skies, long daylight hours and ultra-dark nights that are part and parcel of early autumn. 

What’s more, cinephiles will be just in time for the Reykjavík International Film Festival, Iceland’s major annual movie event that highlights up-and-coming talent in the film industry. And as an almost literal cherry on top, restaurants will be serving autumnal comfort foods, like Arctic char smothered in creamy wild mushroom sauce, followed up with sweet desserts and pastries featuring fresh Icelandic berries.

Our Tip: Dive into Icelandic bathing culture at the Sky Lagoon spa. Their seven-step ritual – including a cold plunge, a full skin cleanse in the sauna, and a sea salt body scrub – will put you in an Iceland state of mind.

Hermanus, South Africa

As the northern hemisphere cools down, the southern half of the globe is heating up, and spring in South Africa means two things: wildflowers and whale-watching. Late September and early October mark the peak of the southern right whale season, when these marine mammals make their appearance in a stunning tail-slapping show that can be viewed right from terra firma. The annual Hermanus Whale Festival takes this time to celebrate with three days of live music, local food, a handicraft market and fun activities for all ages. For a quieter escape into nature, nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve is in full bloom. A walk along its many scenic trails, paired with seasonal clear skies and gentle seas, makes for prime coastal exploration and relaxation. 

Our Tip: Nestled between majestic mountains and rugged coastlines, the unspoiled Voëlklip Beach has more green terraces than sandy shores, perfect for picnicking.

Sicily, Italy

From hearty pasta to fresh seafood, volcanic landscapes to white sand beaches, and ancient ruins to Baroque architecture, Sicily truly has it all any time of the year. But if you ask us, the first weeks of autumn take the cake: the days are still sunny but temperatures are more pleasant, the hills are undergoing an eye-catching colour change, and harvest season has begun. From sampling grapes, olives and almonds, to attending wine festivities and exploring markets brimming with local products (the honey is a must!), early autumn is ideal for oenophiles and foodies. Plus, the charming Baroque-style streets and endless attractions, both on and off the beaten track, are all far less crowded than in previous months.

Our Tip: Ride through the largest European volcano aboard the Etna Wine Train to get majestic views and a true sense of dolce far niente, accompanied by a delicious Sicilian red.

Somerset, UK

If your ideal autumn getaway involves rolling hills dressed in yellow and red, as well as cosy pubs with crackling fires and scenic hike trails for foraging, Europe has plenty of options. But if you also want to partake in some of the continent’s best stargazing, Somerset is the place to go. Here, at Exmoor National Park – a Dark Sky Reserve – the open countryside with its low light pollution and clear skies put the Milky Way on display, visible without any fancy equipment. The reserve also hosts astronomy classes, night walks and stargazing festivals for an immersive experience. Back in the city, top sites like Cheddar Gorge, Wells Cathedral, the Roman Baths and the garden sanctuary of Chalice Well all set the scene for an idyllic country escape.

Our Tip: The Piggery cottage, stylishly decorated with modernity-meets-17^th-century elegance, is the crowning glory to a Somerset visit in autumn.

[Photo credit: Katie Simmons/iStock]

Albuquerque, NM, USA

You won’t find much foliage in a desert, but you’ll surely find something else. In New Mexico’s largest city, October marks the start of more comfortably cool temperatures, particularly ideal for enjoying the world’s largest balloon festival: the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. For an entire week, over 500 hot air balloons rise and paint the desert skies in vivid colours. When they descend, take time to explore the charming Old Town, visit a pumpkin patch, sample fiery green chilli dishes, and join the various Halloween-themed events that local neighbourhoods hold every year.

Our Tip: If you need to escape the event crowds, head north to Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm, a charming 1930s farm with 25 acres of organic produce and lavender fields that offer fragrant landscapes, farm-to-table meals and rejuvenating experiences. 

Seoul, South Korea

Blazingly beautiful ginkgo tree foliage is South Korea’s autumn answer to the Japanese for cherry blossom season earlier in the year. Red, orange and gold leaves decorate the streets along the Han River and shade the rooftops of traditional hanok palaces and villages, setting the most romantic of scenes. And while the trees are a treat for the eyes, Seoul is a treat for the taste buds, too; the city’s annual Kimchi Festival is held in early November, celebrating this most iconic of Korean dishes with cooking classes and tastings. November also means crisper air and fewer crowds to clog the Confucian temples, eccentric flea markets, charming hiking trails and famous street food stalls, leaving you to discover them all at your own pace. 

Our Tip: Spend the better part of a day in Seochon Village, home to fashion boutiques, bookshops, art galleries and charming cafés built in centuries-old hanok buildings for a rich blend of classic and contemporary Korean culture.

Oaxaca, Mexico

In late October and early November, you’ll witness exactly why this underrated Mexican city is well worth a spot on your travel itinerary. This is when the renowned Day of the Dead celebrations and traditions are held, and since Oaxaca is the epicentre of this holiday, you’ll get a front-row seat to its most colourful and liveliest events. From costumed parades to candlelit streets, houses decorated with ofrendas and tasty traditional dishes, every corner of the city is an attraction in itself. If you’re looking for a gastronomic adventure, take a tour of a local mezcal distillery or discover exotic mole flavours in the 20 de Noviembre market. Or dive into the region’s history and nature with a visit to the iconic Hierve el Agua (a natural mineral pool overlooking a frozen waterfall) and Monte Albán (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the second-largest ceremonial site in Central America).

Our Tip: Tuck into traditional Oaxacan cuisine with a high-end twist at Los Danzantes, a Michelin-star restaurant with bonafide eco credentials. Go for the mole tasting. Stay for the mezcal cocktails, exotic main courses and desserts, and enchanting stone patio setting.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Incredible fall foliage destinations abound, but the Vietnamese capital is really something else. From mid-September to late November, the city noise seems to subside while autumnal charms take centre stage. Hoan Kiem Lake, in particular, gets a stunning gold-and-auburn makeover, with locals flocking to its shores for leisurely strolls. In November, the city comes to life with the Mid-Autumn Festival, or Têt Trung Thu. From carp-shaped lantern displays to parades of dancing lions, not to mention mooncakes galore, the festival is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year – and a great excuse to visit. For foodies, the Hanoi Street Food Festival, usually held in late November, is the perfect opportunity to savour the rich flavours of Vietnamese cuisine.

Our Tip: Speaking of good food, make a mandatory stop at Banh Mi 25, a favourite for the classic bánh mì sandwich.

Tasmania, Australia

December transforms Tasmania into a unique summer playground, with the biggest appeal being Bridestowe Lavender Estate – the Southern Hemisphere’s largest lavender farm, which reaches peak bloom in December. From the spectacular views set against the backdrop of Mount Arthur, to the famous markets for lavender oil and dried flowers, fragrant home goods and the famous lavender-infused ice creams, the farm alone is a great reason to visit. Add to that the nearby cities of Launceston and Hobart with their annual Christmas parades, markets and seafood and wine festivals (including a taste of freshly shucked oysters and crayfish), and you’ve got a solid ‘winter’ break under a bright summer sky.

Our Tip: Discover the region’s rich nature as you ride along the Blue Derby Mountain Bike Trails – 85 kilometres of well-kept trail near Launceston that take in lush eucalyptus forests, scenic lakes, historic mining heritage and Tasmania’s distinctive wildlife – all in one ride.

Kraków, Poland

For a truly magical winter wonderland, head to this straight-out-of-a-Christmas-card Polish city in December. Get in the spirit of the season by strolling – or riding a horse carriage – around the mediaeval Main Square, Rynek Główny, site of the famous Kraków Christmas Market. Here, in one of the largest holiday markets in Europe, you’ll find a huge display of festive foods (including the traditional pierogi and bigos), handcrafted ornaments, unique gifts, and drink stalls selling must-try vodka tipples. For a look into the city’s rich cultural heritage, the traditional nativity scene contest, included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list, makes for a fun and interactive attraction, while the snow-covered Wawel Castle hosts seasonal exhibitions with a historical perspective on the city’s Christmas traditions. 

Our Tip: While you’re here, make a short day trip to Zakopane, a charming mountain resort that offers skiing and hiking trails, thermal baths, hearty mountain cuisine and snowy landscapes for a winter getaway straight out of a storybook.