The best islands to visit in September
6 islands to visit during shoulder season
September doesn’t necessarily mean the end of the travel season. On the contrary, many travelers choose to enjoy a late summer getaway at this time of year.
On Ferryhopper, we have created a list of our favorite islands in Spain, Italy and Greece to explore at the end of the summer!
The best islands for your September vacation in Spain, Italy and Greece
Are you wondering which are the best islands for a holiday in September? Check Ferryhopper's list of the best islands to visit in Spain, Italy and Greece and get inspired!
Ibiza
Ibiza is an island of contrasts. It's well known for its thriving nightlife but it’s also home to quiet villages, yoga retreats and secluded beaches. September is arguably the best month to visit the Balearic island if you wish to discover the lesser-known side of Ibiza.
Visiting Ibiza during low season reveals a slower pace of island life. At this time of the year, you can enjoy outdoor activities, wine tours and savor the island’s gastronomy without the summer crowds. The weather is also great as temperatures become milder.
The island may not be full, but the fun is definitely not over yet. Most of the bars, clubs and restaurants are open and you can also find many accommodation options at a lower price. If you visit Ibiza at the end of September, don’t miss the chance to have some fun at the world-renowned closing parties.
Tip: the annual Ibiza Jazz Festival is also held in September, featuring both local and international artists.
The quiet beach of Sa Caleta in September
Lanzarote
September is probably the best month to visit the Canary Islands if you want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the crowds. Especially in Lanzarote, the weather is amazing throughout September, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 28°C.
The dramatic volcanic valleys of Lanzarote, the unspoilt beaches, the network of trails, and the cultural attractions will take your breath away. Lanzarote, one of the windiest Canary Islands, is famous for its water sports and many surfers, kayakers, windsurfers, and kiteboarders flock to Lanzarote all year round.
If you're going to Lanzarote on family holidays, there are many resorts that offer child-friendly accommodation options and activities for kids. Arrecife, the capital of the island, has many budget hotels, as well as great bars, restaurants, and a plethora of boutiques and shops.
Tip: do not leave Lanzarote without trying the wines produced in the valley of La Geria, well-known for their unique flavor.
Kitesurfers at a beach in Lanzarote
Elba
Are you ready to live your Italian dream vacation in September? If you are planning on exploring, then, the island of Elba is ideal for your last-minute Italian getaway.
From Tuscany, Elba is just 45 minutes away by ferry from the port of Piombino. During September, you can enjoy the pristine beaches in peace as the lack of tourists and the warm sea make the perfect combination for your holidays. Elba is also a very attractive destination for sports enthusiasts with more than 50 hiking trails and one of the best diving areas in the Mediterranean.
When in Elba, explore its numerous historical sites, taste its local delicacies, discover the beauty of its seabed, and experience the island like a local.
Relaxing away from the masses in a secluded beach in Elba
Ischia
Ischia is at the top of the list for those searching for a relaxing getaway in Italy. September is an excellent time to visit the island's towns, go for a hike through the countryside, or simply relax by the sea.
Located in the Gulf of Naples, Ischia is just a 50-minute ferry ride from Naples. The temperatures are mild this time of year and the island is less crowded than in July and August. When it comes to accommodation, Ischia offers a wide variety of options for all budgets and most visitors choose Forio, Ischia Porto and Ischia Ponte for their stay.
Besides its breathtaking seaviews, its healing thermal springs, its Neapolitan cuisine, and warm hospitality, Ischia is also famous for its wines. In September, it's harvest time, so there is no better moment to visit the local wineries and walk along the wine trails of Ischia.
The medieval Aragonese Castle in Ischia
Crete
If you wish to extend your summer vacation on a Greek island, then you should consider visiting Crete in September. Explore its numerous archeological sites and natural wonders, taste the local cuisine and enjoy the warm Cretan hospitality without the influx of tourists.
The weather is still warm in September, being even more pleasant than in the summer because temperatures do not exceed 30°C and days are still long. If you travel with kids, you can find many family-friendly resorts in Crete and benefit from lower prices.
Apart from its wild natural beauty, rocky hillsides and turquoise waters, Crete is also great for a road-trip adventure. Its great road network, make it easy to visit all major cities across Crete, such as Chania, Heraklion and Rethymno.
Tip: check out our article and find more reasons to visit Crete in September.
The crystal clear waters of Balos Lagoon, in the regional unit of Chania
Milos
Milos is also among the best Greek islands to visit in September. During high season, it can get windy and overcrowded with visitors from all over the world but in September, tourist numbers are lower and the weather is lovely. If you want to enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere, September is just the season for you!
The volcanic moonscape and the rocky beaches of Milos with their emerald waters are absolutely stunning. The most well-known beaches are Kleftiko and Sarakiniko, which are famous for their white rock formations. You can also spend a day sailing around Milos and exploring all the remote and boat-only accessible beaches.
Visiting Milos in September is an excellent choice as there are many affordable accommodation options and restaurant prices are also reasonable. Milos is also suitable for families with kids since there are many entertaining outdoor activities for them.
The impressive lunar landscape of Sarakiniko beach in Milos
There is no better way to beat the end-of-season sadness than by organizing a September ferry trip. Remember that summer isn’t over! Check all the available routes on our Map of ferries, book ferry tickets to Spain, Italy and Greece on Ferryhopper with no hidden fees and keep enjoying the sea and the sun in September!
Extra tip: download the Ferryhopper App for free, book your tickets faster and track your ferry live!
