As the UK's school summer holidays draw to a close, a panel of travel editors has unveiled their top 21 recommendations for September travel, offering British holidaymakers an opportunity to extend their summer experience. The curated list focuses on destinations that promise favourable weather, fewer crowds, and often better value as the peak tourist season subsides. This advice comes as many look to escape the 'back-to-school' feeling and enjoy a late-season break.
The selection ranges from European city breaks to more exotic long-haul options, catering to a variety of preferences and budgets. For those considering European destinations, September typically brings milder temperatures, making sightseeing more comfortable in cities like Rome or Lisbon, while coastal areas in Greece or Spain still offer warm seas for swimming. These locations are often served by direct flights from major UK airports such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham, with return fares potentially starting from around £100-£200 depending on the destination and booking in advance.
For UK travellers planning a trip, several practical considerations are paramount. A valid passport is essential, and for EU destinations, no visa is currently required for short stays. However, travellers should be aware of the upcoming ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) requirement, expected to be implemented in 2025, which will necessitate pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt non-EU nationals. For destinations outside Europe, visa requirements vary significantly and should be checked well in advance through the relevant embassy or consulate.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice remains a crucial resource for all British tourists. Before booking, it is strongly advised to consult the FCDO website for the latest safety and security information, local laws and customs, and entry requirements for any chosen destination. This includes monitoring any specific warnings related to political instability, natural disasters, or health concerns, which can impact travel plans.
Travel insurance is another vital component of any holiday planning. Comprehensive travel insurance should cover medical emergencies, repatriation, trip cancellation or interruption, and lost luggage. Policies vary widely, and travellers should ensure their chosen insurance adequately covers their specific activities and any pre-existing medical conditions. The cost of a good policy for a week in Europe might range from £20-£50, whilst long-haul trips could see premiums starting from £50-£100 or more, depending on age and coverage.
New flight routes from UK airports continue to open up options for September travel. Recent additions include increased services to destinations such as Marrakech from London Stansted and enhanced connectivity to various Greek islands from regional airports, providing more direct and convenient choices for those looking to explore the editor-recommended locations.