Top Five European Coastal Towns That Are Better in September Than July
- jamiecrow2
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
July might be the traditional month for a European beach holiday, but it isn't necessarily the best.
By September, the fiercest summer heat has often eased, the biggest crowds have started to disappear and the pace of life along the coast becomes noticeably more relaxed. The sea can still be beautifully warm, restaurants are still open and there is often plenty of sunshine left to enjoy.
For travellers who would rather explore a beautiful coastal town than compete for a patch of sand, September can be the sweet spot.
Here are five European coastal towns that may actually be better in September than July:
1. Rovinj, Croatia
Rovinj is one of Croatia's most photogenic coastal towns, with colourful buildings climbing up the hillside towards the Church of St Euphemia and narrow streets winding down towards the Adriatic.
In July, its beauty comes with a price: crowds.
September offers a much more relaxed experience. The weather can remain wonderfully warm, while the intense heat of midsummer begins to ease. The Adriatic is also still warm enough for swimming, making it possible to combine sightseeing with plenty of time beside the sea.
The quieter atmosphere is particularly welcome in Rovinj's historic centre, where wandering through the cobbled streets is much more enjoyable without the height-of-summer crowds.
There is also something wonderfully atmospheric about sitting beside the harbour in the evening as the summer season begins to wind down.
If you want to experience the Croatian coast at its most relaxed, September makes a strong case for visiting Rovinj.
2. Collioure, France
Tucked away on France's Mediterranean coast near the Spanish border, Collioure looks almost too picturesque to be real.
The small harbour is surrounded by colourful buildings, cafés and restaurants, while the Château Royal and Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges create the town's instantly recognisable skyline.
During July and August, Collioure can become extremely busy. September brings a welcome change of pace.
The Mediterranean climate means there is still a good chance of warm, sunny weather, but exploring the narrow streets and surrounding coastline can be considerably more comfortable than during the peak of summer.
Collioure also has a fascinating artistic history, having attracted painters including Henri Matisse and André Derain. With the summer crowds thinning, there is more time to appreciate the galleries, architecture and views that have inspired artists for generations.
It is the sort of place that rewards slow exploration – and September gives you more opportunity to do exactly that.
3. Piran, Slovenia
Slovenia's short stretch of Adriatic coastline is home to Piran, a beautiful old town that feels rather different from many of Europe's better-known Mediterranean destinations.
The Venetian influence is immediately obvious, with narrow streets, elegant buildings and the distinctive Tartini Square at the heart of the town.
July can bring large numbers of visitors to this relatively compact destination, making September particularly attractive for anyone who wants to explore at a more leisurely pace.
The weather can remain warm, while the sea is often still inviting for a swim. There's also something especially pleasant about sitting in one of the cafés around the waterfront once the busiest part of the summer season has passed.
Piran is small enough to explore on foot, but its location also makes it a useful base for discovering more of Slovenia's coast.
It may not have the enormous beaches of some Mediterranean resorts, but if you're looking for character, history and beautiful Adriatic views, Piran is difficult to beat.
4. Cefalù, Italy
Cefalù combines the ingredients of a classic Italian coastal escape: a beautiful sandy beach, a historic old town, excellent food and a spectacular backdrop.
The town sits beneath the enormous Rocca di Cefalù, while its medieval streets lead towards the waterfront and long crescent-shaped beach.
July can be hot and busy, particularly around the beach and historic centre. September offers a more comfortable alternative, with the possibility of warm weather and plenty of sunshine but fewer peak-season crowds.
The sea can remain beautifully warm, too, so you don't necessarily have to choose between sightseeing and a beach holiday.
September is also a good time to enjoy the town's restaurants and cafés without feeling as though you're racing against the clock to find a table. Sicilian food is reason enough to slow down and stay for another evening.
Spend the morning exploring the old town, the afternoon by the sea and the evening eating something delicious in a little restaurant.
That sounds like a pretty good September itinerary.
5. Lagos, Portugal
Lagos is one of the Algarve's most popular coastal towns, thanks to its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and historic centre.
That popularity can make July feel very busy, particularly around the town's most famous beaches and the spectacular rock formations of Ponta da Piedade.
September provides a chance to enjoy the same scenery with a little more breathing room.
Temperatures are generally more comfortable for exploring, while the Atlantic can remain warm enough for swimming. The town itself also retains its lively atmosphere, meaning you're not arriving after the holiday season has completely shut down.
One of the best things to do in September is explore the coastline by boat or on foot, when the combination of sunshine and slightly cooler temperatures makes it easier to spend hours outside.
And when you return to Lagos in the evening, the old town's restaurants and bars provide the perfect place to settle down and watch another Portuguese sunset.
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