As summer fades across most of Europe, a few lucky corners still bask in the sun well into September and October. These places offer the best of both seasons: sun-kissed days without the sweltering heat, fewer tourists, lower prices, and all the charm Europe is known for. If you’re craving one last shot of sunshine without the chaos of peak travel, here are the effortless autumn getaways that deliver serious summer vibes.
1. Puglia, Italy – Sun, Sea, and Zero Stress
Puglia doesn’t try too hard—and that’s exactly its appeal. The heel of Italy’s boot still simmers in the high 70s well into October. Think whitewashed towns like Ostuni, baroque Lecce, and cliff-hugging Polignano a Mare. Olive groves stretch for miles, and the Adriatic stays swimmable far past summer’s official end. Grab a cone of pistachio gelato and enjoy beachside dinners without reservations or crowds.
Secret Tip: Visit the sea caves at Grotta della Poesia early in the morning. You’ll beat the tiny trickle of late-season tourists and may have the emerald pool all to yourself.
- Insider hotel pick: Masseria Cervarolo, Ostuni
- Authentic Eats: Osteria del Tempo Perso – A cave-carved spot in Ostuni’s old town, serving elevated Apulian classics.
2. Crete, Greece – Ancient Warmth
Crete is summer’s final stronghold. While the rest of Europe starts layering up, Crete lingers in the low 80s. Hike the Samaria Gorge, explore Venetian harbors in Chania, and sip raki at seaside tavernas—all with the golden glow of early autumn. The water is still perfect, the sunsets are surreal, and the vibe is pure Greek hospitality minus the high-season frenzy.
Secret Tip: Find the pink-sand beach at Elafonissi—but go late in the day. By 4 p.m., the day-trippers are gone, the light turns golden, and the lagoon feels like a private dream.
- Insider hotel pick: Kapsaliana Village Hotel
- Authentic Eats: To Pigadi (Rethymno) – Hidden in a cozy courtyard, locals come for slow-cooked lamb and house wine.
3. Andalusia, Spain – Where Summer Stays Late
Andalusia doesn’t believe in short summers. Seville, Córdoba, and Granada are still sun-drenched well into fall. Early autumn is the sweet spot: the stifling summer heat cools just enough to make wandering the Alhambra or sipping wine in a plaza actually enjoyable. The Costa del Sol beaches remain open, the white hill towns look straight out of a postcard, and flamenco still crackles after dark.
Secret Tip: Book a night visit to the Alhambra. The crowds disappear, the palace glows under soft lighting, and the whole place feels otherworldly.
- Insider hotel pick: La Casa del Califa, Vejer de la Frontera
- Authentic Eats: El Jardín del Califa – Attached to the hotel but beloved by locals too for its Moorish-Andalusian fusion and lush courtyard.
4. Malta – Mini Nation, Maximum Sunshine
Malta might be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to warm-weather escapes. By October, the sea is still warm, the skies stay blue, and the crowds have thinned. History lovers get ancient temples and medieval cities; sun-seekers get rocky coves and hidden bays. Bonus: Malta’s English-speaking and compact, so getting around is painless.
Secret Tip: Skip the main beaches and head to Ghar Lapsi. This tiny inlet is where locals swim, dive, and hang out without the fuss. There’s even a little seafood shack nearby for the freshest catch.
- Insider hotel pick: Locanda La Gelsomina, Birgu
- Authentic Eats: Tal-Petut – A no-menu spot where the chef cooks traditional Maltese dishes based on what’s fresh and seasonal.
5. Dubrovnik & The Dalmatian Coast – Adriatic Indian Summer
5. Dubrovnik & The Dalmatian Coast – Adriatic Indian SummerDubrovnik in late September? Still stunning, still warm, and blissfully quieter. Ferries still run to the nearby Elafiti Islands. Cafés spill onto cobblestone streets, and the Adriatic invites one last swim. Drive up the Dalmatian Coast to Split or Hvar, and you’ll find that summer hasn’t quite left—just mellowed into something softer and more local.
Secret Tip: Take the cable car up to Mount Srđ for sunset—but walk down. The trail back is rarely used, offers sweeping views, and gives you a peaceful end to a busy day.
- Insider hotel pick: Villa Orsula, Dubrovnik
- Authentic Eats: Taj Mahal (not Indian!) – A Bosnian restaurant tucked inside the old city, cherished for hearty grilled meats and stews.
6. The Algarve, Portugal – Golden Hour Forever
6. The Algarve, Portugal – Golden Hour ForeverThe Algarve is basically Europe’s most photogenic shoulder-season escape. Cliffs, hidden beaches, and little fishing towns keep things real while the sun keeps shining. September and October bring highs in the 70s, perfect for surfing, hiking, or just kicking back with a cold Vinho Verde. No more packed beach towels or dinner queues—just space, sun, and salty air.
Secret Tip: Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail at sunrise. It’s one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal walks, and in early light with no one around, it feels like you have the whole coastline to yourself.
- Insider hotel pick: Casa Mãe, Lagos
- Authentic Eats: A Forja – A no-frills fish joint where locals line up for grilled sardines and cold beer.
Why Go Now?
Off-season travel is a cheat code. Flights drop, hotels are easier to book, and everything feels less rushed. You get to slow down and soak up the local pace, the food, and the scenery without elbowing through crowds. It’s all the charm with none of the chaos.
So if you’re not quite ready to let summer go, don’t. These effortless autumn getaways are still serving sun, sea, and seriously good vibes.
