Super September: Why the 9th Month is the New August

For decades, the British summer holiday was defined by the “Big August Break”. We braved the record-breaking heatwaves of the Mediterranean, jostled for space on overcrowded beaches in the Algarve, and paid the inevitable “school holiday tax” on flights and hotels.

But as we move through 2026, a seismic shift has occurred in the way we travel. According to the latest ABTA Travel Trends report, September has officially become the fastest-growing month for UK departures, with intention to travel rising by over 40% since 2023.

From “coolcations” to “destination dupes”, the 9th month is no longer just for retirees; it is the new gold standard for savvy travellers, Gen Z trendsetters, and remote workers alike. Here is why Super September is officially the best time to book your 2026 getaway.

1. The Death of the “Heat-cation”

One of the primary drivers for the September surge is climate-driven travel. In recent years, Southern Europe has seen July and August temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C. For many, this isn’t a holiday; it’s a survival exercise.

By moving your trip to September, you catch the “Sweet Spot”:

The Weather: Destinations like Greece, Turkey, and Southern Spain enjoy a mellow 24–28°C. It is warm enough for the beach but cool enough for a hike in the White Mountains of Crete or a stroll through Seville.
Sea Temperatures: While the air is cooling, the Mediterranean and Atlantic waters have been baking all summer. September offers the warmest sea temperatures of the year, perfect for swimming and water sports without the midday sun’s bite.

2. Beating the “School Holiday Tax”

It is no secret that travel prices plummet the moment the school bells ring in early September. For those without school-aged children—or those with flexible “term-time” arrangements—the savings are staggering.

Expense Type	August Average	September Average	Typical Saving
Return Flights (Europe)	£240	£110	54%
Boutique Hotel (Per Night)	£185	£130	30%
Car Hire (Weekly)	£320	£210	34%

On average, a couple can save upwards of £600 on a week-long break simply by delaying their departure by fourteen days. In 2026, “value for money” isn’t just about finding a cheap deal; it’s about strategic timing.

3. The “Trendsetter” Effect: Gen Z and Remote Work

While the over-65s have long championed September (with 35% now choosing the month), the biggest growth is coming from the 25–34-year-old demographic.

Dubbed the “Travel Trendsetters”, this group prioritises mental wellbeing and authentic experiences over traditional “sun and sand” fly-and-flops. With the rise of hybrid and remote working, many professionals are opting for “workations” in September. They can rent an Airbnb in Lisbon or a villa in Sicily for a month, benefiting from lower monthly rates and faster Wi-Fi as the peak-season tourist load on local infrastructure lightens.

4. Authenticity Returns to the Streets

In August, many European cities become “tourist bubbles”. Local residents flee to the countryside, and shops or family-run tavernas often close for their own holidays.

In September, the “real” Europe returns:

Local Life: The shutters go up, the locals return to their favourite espresso bars, and the atmosphere shifts from “hectic” to “homegrown”.
No Reservations Required: You can finally snag a table at that famous trattoria in Rome or find a front-row sunbed on the Amalfi Coast without booking three months in advance.
Events & Festivals: September marks the start of the harvest season. From wine festivals in France to the beginning of Oktoberfest in Munich, the cultural calendar is far richer than in the height of summer.

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Top 3 “Super September” Destinations for 2026

If you are looking for inspiration for your late-season break, these three spots offer the best balance of weather, value, and “cool” factor:

1. The Peloponnese, Greece

While Santorini and Mykonos remain crowded, the Peloponnese offers ancient history and pristine beaches at a fraction of the price. In September, the olive groves begin to silver, and the afternoon temperatures are perfect for exploring the ruins of Olympia.

2. Puglia, Italy

The “heel” of Italy’s boot is notorious for being packed with Italian holidaymakers in August. Come September, the crowds vanish, leaving the white-washed towns of Ostuni and Alberobello peaceful and affordable.

3. Albania’s “Ionian Riviera”

A top “destination dupe” for 2026. If you love the look of the Greek islands but want 2010 prices, head to Ksamil or Dhërmi. In September, you’ll get crystal-clear turquoise waters and luxury beach clubs for about £40 a day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is everything still open in Europe in September? Yes. Unlike October or November, when some seasonal resorts begin to wind down, September is considered “high-shoulder” season. Everything from water parks to ferry routes remains fully operational, often with more reliable service due to fewer crowds.

Is September weather reliable for a beach holiday? In the Mediterranean, absolutely. You can expect 8 to 10 hours of sunshine a day. While northern Europe starts to see autumnal rain, the “Sun Belt” (Southern Spain, Turkey, Greece, and North Africa) remains firmly in summer mode.

When is the best time to book a September holiday? To get the absolute best value on Compare My Travel, we recommend booking 3 to 4 months in advance. However, because September doesn’t suffer from the same “sell-out” risk as August, you can often find excellent last-minute “Late Deal” packages in the final two weeks of August.