Think the summer is the only time you can go on vacation? Think again. September is the best month for travel, and no one's keeping it a secret anymore.  

September is the sleeper hit of travel months, with peak summer getting all the fun. If you want less intense summer heat, fewer crowds, some of the best seasonal food and more opportunities to connect with your destination, then Europe in September is where it’s at. But don’t just take it from us – we’ll let Insight Vacations travel expert Ashley Woodring give the scoop on why September is the best month for travel.

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1. Warm, Inviting Seas  

Did you know that September is when the sea is at its warmest in Europe? “After soaking up the summer heat, the Mediterranean waters are perfect for a swim or any water adventure in September,” says Ashley. The sea is hottest in Cyprus, with an average September temperature of 27.7°C (81.8°F), but across the Mediterranean the sea temperature ranges from mid-20°C to low 30°C. 

2. A More Local Vibe  

At the height of the holiday season, Europe is understandably crowded – but September is the best month for travel if you want to see each destination in its true form, without the mass of tourists. “With the summer crowds thinning out, you get to see destinations as they really are – locals settling back into their routines, giving you a more authentic experience,” says Ashley. 

3. Harvest Time  

It’s no secret that fresh produce tastes best when it’s in season, and traveling in September means that you catch the beginning of harvest season – meaning more incredible food and drink for you to tuck into. “September is grape harvest season in many wine regions, which means vineyard tours, tastings, and some seriously good seasonal eats,” Ashley notes. Tuscany sees the hunting of its coveted white truffles in September, while the changing of the seasons sees heartier vegetables like squash, pumpkin and zucchini come into their own across the Mediterranean. 

4. Cheaper Flights  

Outside of peak season is, to no surprise, a cheaper time to book your flights – just another reason why September is the best month for travel. Ashley recommends booking your flights for September: “The summer rush is over, and airlines start dropping prices. it’s the perfect time to snag a deal!” 

5. Picture-Perfect Light 

Are you looking to immortalise the beauty of your trip on camera? It turns out that the dusky glow of September set the perfect stage for any photographer.  “Early autumn has this dreamy, warm glow that makes everything—from landscapes to your travel photos—look stunning,” says Ashley. Get ready for golden hour! 

6. Festivals Everywhere  

Now the heat of the summer has passed, countless festivals and events begin to pop up across Europe, making September the best month for travel if you like to throw yourself into cultural celebrations. “Whether it’s wine harvest celebrations in Italy and Spain or music and cultural events across Europe, there’s always something fun happening,” says Ashley. Take your pick from the Sorrento Grape Harvest Festival, Slovenia’s Ljubljana Festival (the oldest music festival in Europe, no less), or La Merce Festival, Barcelona’s largest street party – all taking place in September. 

7. Al Fresco Friendly 

Is there anything better than sitting outside on a long, warm evening as you wile away the time with delicious local food and drink? Surprise – you can still do this in September, with nighttime temperatures hovering around 17ºC (63ºF) across Europe. “It’s still warm enough to enjoy those long, leisurely dinners outside,” says Ashley. “Al fresco dining at its best!” 

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Original article here.