Why September & October Are Secretly the Best Months to Visit Europe
The following is a guest article by CarJet
Once summer ends, peak holiday crowds across Europe finally start to wind down. What many people don’t realise, though, is that September and October actually boast some of the best weather and mildest temperatures of the entire year for a break. A massive bonus for anyone travelling in early autumn is the noticeable drop in prices when booking flights, hotels, car hire, and local activities, giving you a far more pleasant atmosphere without the summer price tag.
Whether you want to explore historic city streets on foot or set off on a scenic autumn drive to discover spots away from the main tourist hubs, visiting during these months lets you experience Europe’s top destinations at a much more relaxed pace.
RELATED: 16 Cheapest Countries in Europe to Travel (+Daily Budgets!)
Best European Destinations to Visit in September and October
If you’re planning an autumn getaway, picking the right location makes all the difference. Whether you want to catch the last ray of island sun, experience rich culture, or dive into seasonal events, these options are well worth adding to your travel list.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh completely transforms as August comes to an end, with the city’s trees turning vibrant amber and deep red. It is one of the most historic and famously haunted cities in the UK, making the atmosphere in October incredible with plenty of Halloween events and evening ghost tours to check out.
The weather can keep you guessing. September usually serves up mild, sunny days with a fresh breeze, whereas October brings cooler temperatures and a higher chance of a downpour, so a good rain jacket is essential. That said, a bit of drizzle actually adds to the city’s moody charm, and there are endless ways to stay dry, from the National Galleries of Scotland to escape rooms like Locked in Edinburgh.
It is a city made for walking, so you can easily leave your car in a nearby car park and set off on foot. Head up Calton Hill for fantastic skyline views without a tough climb, or tackle Arthur’s Seat if you are up for a proper trek.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Amsterdam and experience the city at its best. There is always something going on no matter who you are travelling with, from family breaks to trips with friends. The weather can be a bit mixed, so bringing a few extra layers is a good idea, but rain will never ruin your plans. The city is full of great parks for clear days and plenty of indoor spots for when it rains.
Canal Cruises & Local Markets: A boat tour along the famous canals is a must, giving you a great view of the city from the water. For a taste of local life, head to the Albert Cuyp Market in the trendy De Pijp neighbourhood, where you can browse food stalls, clothes, and local snacks.
Indoor Attractions & Easy Day Trips: When it rains, you can head inside to interactive spots like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! or visit the city’s top museums. Amsterdam is also very well connected by train, making it simple to take day trips to places like Utrecht, or Rotterdam to see the famous yellow Cube Houses.
October Dance Event: If you visit in October, the city comes alive for the annual Amsterdam Dance Event. It brings together DJs, music fans, and industry events right across town, making it a brilliant time to visit if you love nightlife.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague in autumn gets pleasant weather with noticeably less rain than many other European destinations. The autumn sunsets here are really special, lighting up the famous gothic buildings and making it a great time to walk across Charles Bridge, especially now that the busy summer crowds have cleared out.
September and October mark the peak of the local wine harvest, making it an ideal time to step back from busy routines and throw yourself into Czech traditions. At seasonal outdoor festivals, you can try burčák, a sweet, partially fermented young wine sold only at this time of year. You can also visit the Prague Botanical Gardens for their annual autumn pumpkin display.
Mornings and evenings do get chilly, so it is worth packing a warm jacket for late walks along the Vltava River. Overall, it is a brilliant destination if you want a slower trip where you can unwind and really experience the local way of life.
Paris, France
Paris is a city people romanticise all year round, but visiting in autumn proves it is completely worth it. The heavy summer crowds clear out, leaving you with great weather to enjoy before winter sets in. You can still sit outside at pavement tables, but instead of cold drinks, you can warm up with an incredible hot chocolate from places like Carette, Angelina, or Le Café Marly.
On a sunny afternoon, a walk through the Luxembourg Gardens is a great way to enjoy the seasonal trees and garden displays. If you want to see famous artwork without the usual busy daytime queues, booking a Friday evening ticket for the Louvre is a smart move, as it stays open until late.
If you want to get into the October mood, going underground to visit the Paris Catacombs gives you a look into the city’s darker history. It is also an ideal base for a quick day trip, as picking up a car allows you to easily drive out to nearby spots like Versailles or the Champagne region while the countryside is full of autumn colour.
Essential Autumn Travel Tips
- Pack smart: Temperatures drop quickly once the sun goes down, so bring a warm jumper, comfortable layers, and a small umbrella in your day bag.
- Check opening times: Many castles, outdoor attractions, and local tours shorten their operating hours after August, so confirm details before heading out.
- Save on travel and stays: Flight and hotel prices drop compared to summer peaks. Staying mid week gets you even lower rates, leaving you with extra spending money for your trip.
Why You Should Hire a Car with CarJet for Your Autumn Trip
Hiring a car with CarJet is far cheaper than buying multiple train and bus tickets and friends. CarJet compares top providers in seconds to lock in the lowest prices, saving you money while keeping your travel plans stress free.
With autumn weather being unpredictable, having your own vehicle makes getting around so much easier. Instead of waiting in the rain for public transport or carrying luggage through wet streets, you stay warm and dry. A hire car gives you total freedom to move at your own pace, adapt if the weather changes, and explore scenic countryside outside cities like Edinburgh or Prague on your own terms.
BIO:
CarJet is a leading international car hire comparison site dedicated to helping travellers find the ideal vehicle for their journey. By comparing deals from top suppliers in seconds, CarJet guarantees the lowest prices alongside a seamless booking experience.
