5 Top Destinations to Explore in September 2025
5 premier places to visit in September 2025, ranging from Seoul to Rome. Complete with details on highly-rated hotels from 2-star to 4-star that are not only stylish but also genuinely budget-friendly. Let’s dive in and explore.
DESTINATION GUIDE
Seoul
With mild temperatures in September, usually between 10-25°C, accompanied by cool breezes and low humidity, this month marks the conclusion of summer heat and monsoon season in Seoul. September's fall brings warm weather, free from the oppressive humidity and heavy rainfall of the previous months. During this time, Seoul enjoys delightful weather, with daily highs hovering in the mid-50s to mid-70s, although occasional rain may occur. In contrast to the bustling summer season, you'll find fewer tourists, allowing for a more immersive experience of the city's rich history by exploring landmarks like Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Jogyesa Temple. For those in search of a contemporary vibe, the vibrant Myeongdong district offers a wide array of shopping and dining options, while N Seoul Tower provides stunning panoramic views of the city skyline.
Your outdoor adventures can be greatly enriched by indulging in local flavors, much like the food lovers at Gwangjang Market or while strolling through the charming streets of Insadong. If you wish to extend your stay, September still celebrates the Chuseok holiday, an annual cultural festivity akin to South Korea’s Thanksgiving for the plentiful harvest. Chuseok typically occurs in late September. You can immerse yourself in the harvest atmosphere by witnessing the ceremonial ritual of Sajik Daeje, a 50-minute procession from Deoksugung Palace to Sajikdan Altar, which honors the ancient deities of earth and grain. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Seoul offers something for every type of traveler.
Guest House The Hill is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 1.4 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Ssamji-gil, Changdeok Palace, and Gwangjang Traditional Market. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels in Seoul.
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ibis Styles Ambassador Seoul Myeongdong is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 1.1 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Namsangol Hanok Village, Namsan Park, and Namdaemun Market. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels in Bucharest.
Courtyard by Marriott Seoul Namdaemun is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 677 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Namdaemun Market, Sungnyemun, and Deoksugung Palace. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels in Seoul.
Guilin
September is the ideal month to explore Guilin, thanks to its sunny days and cool nights. During this time, temperatures range from 20-30°C, and the weather in Guilin is mild and moderate, featuring less rainfall compared to the summer months. The decrease in rainfall and the possibility of excellent lighting make September a prime time for landscape photography. While some may argue that the weather in November and December is more enjoyable, it's important to note that this period is peak season, which affects the cost of flights and accommodations. In early September, many hotels offer discounts. Considering all these factors, September is truly the best time to visit Guilin, not only for its delightful weather but also for the lower hotel prices.
The decrease in rainfall during September makes Guilin a perfect destination for discovering its breathtaking landscapes and partaking in outdoor adventures, like cruising along the Li River, cycling through the picturesque Yangshuo countryside, and capturing the essence of Guilin's distinctive scenery, all while enjoying generally fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. While the number of tourists is lower from September to November, be prepared for larger crowds during specific Chinese National Holidays. On these holidays, domestic and local visitors tend to outnumber foreigners, leading to bustling scenes at popular historical sites in Guilin City, such as the Li River and Elephant Trunk Hill, which has attracted tourists since the Tang Dynasty. Choosing accommodation near these iconic landmarks can significantly enhance your travel experience. Remember to look for budget-friendly hotels that are particularly attractive for staying close to important sites in Guilin, and make sure to book your stay in advance.
Lakeside Inn is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 484 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Guilin Central Square, Ronghu Art Museum, and Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels in Guilin.
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Riverside Inn Guilin Central is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 546 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Guilin Central Square, Ronghu Art Museum, Riyue Shuangta Cultural Park. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels in Guilin.
Jolie Vue Boutique Guilin is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 821 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Guilin Central Square, Li River, and Two Rivers. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels in Guilin.
Oahu
The weather in Hawaii during September is quite enjoyable, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 31°C. The northeast trade winds help to ease the high humidity levels. The rainy season doesn't start until November, which means that rain in September is usually mild to moderate, with a greater likelihood on the northernmost islands. This lovely weather makes September perfect for outdoor activities and adventures, such as celebrating the golden shores of Waikiki Beach and its excellent surfing conditions, taking a dip in the warm Pacific waters, or witnessing breathtaking sunsets. You can also go sea kayaking and explore Pearl Harbor, an important historical site that tells the story of the events leading up to World War II, all while enjoying the Aloha Festivals, which celebrate Hawaiian culture with parades, food, and entertainment. Although Waikiki can still be quite busy, other parts of Oahu tend to have fewer crowds in September, as many families have returned to school. With fewer visitors compared to the peak summer months, September also brings the advantage of slightly lower hotel rates. Be sure to book your hotel in advance!
Aqua Palms Waikiki is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 23 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Waikiki Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach Park, Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, U.S. Army Museum of Hawai'I, Kawehewehe, Gray's Beach, and Magic Island Lagoon. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels in Oahu.
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The Equus is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 24 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki Beach, Fort DeRussy Beach Park, Magic Island Lagoon, Ala Moana Beach Park, and U.S. Army Museum of Hawai'i. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels in Oahu.
Prince Waikiki
Prince Waikiki is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 24 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, Duke Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki Beach, Magic Island Lagoon, Ala Moana Beach Park, Fort DeRussy Beach Park, and U.S. Army Museum of Hawai'i. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels in Oahu.
Bucharest
September is an excellent time to explore Bucharest. The weather tends to be enjoyable, featuring mild temperatures and sunny days, typically around 25°C, which makes it ideal for strolling and uncovering the city's unique architectural beauty and lovely parks. In contrast, the summers in Bucharest can become excessively hot, and even for those who relish the heat, it can be quite stifling. Winters can be extremely cold, with heavy snowfall that impacts transportation, and many tourist attractions either remain closed or have early closing hours. In addition to the delightful weather in Bucharest, September brings fewer tourists, allowing for a more laid-back experience at popular sites. You will have greater freedom to explore local markets like Obor Market, one of the oldest and most beloved outdoor markets in the city. During September, the crowds are thinner, making it easier to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, such as grapes, apples, and pumpkins, even though the harvest season has begun in Romania.
September marks the beginning of the harvest season and is also an ideal time for thrilling outdoor activities in Bucharest. You can explore historical landmarks, take leisurely walks in parks, and immerse yourself in the lively cafe culture of this expansive city, which boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe and attractions. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife, you may want to choose accommodation in a bustling city center, like the Old Town area, where historical sites, cultural landmarks, and entertainment options are easily accessible. For history buffs visiting Bucharest, budget-friendly hotels near important landmarks such as the Palace of the Parliament and the Bucharest Museum are particularly attractive. Additionally, visiting Bucharest in September allows you to experience various cultural events, including the George Enescu Festival, one of Romania's most esteemed classical music festivals.
HOLT Old Town is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 650 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Bucharest Museum, Patriarchal Palace, and Antim Monastery. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels in Bucharest.
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Rembrandt Hotel is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 470 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Bucharest Museum, Patriarchal Palace, Antim Monastery, and Cismigiu Gardens. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels in Bucharest.
Mercure Bucharest City Center is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 892 m from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Saint Joseph Cathedral, Gradina Icoanei park, Cretulescu Palace, and Cismigiu Gardens. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels in Bucharest.
Rome
With temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C, Rome enjoys pleasant weather characterized by warm days and cooler evenings. Additionally, the crowds are generally less dense compared to the peak summer months, making it a wonderful time to explore the Eternal City on foot during the longer days. Rain is minimal, and the evenings are particularly enjoyable as fall approaches. September also brings a tranquil atmosphere to famous landmarks such as St. Peter's Basilica, the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Museums, and the Trevi Fountain. Numerous hotels are situated within a kilometer of the Colosseum, including Hotel Viminale, Hotel Castellino Roma, Grand Hotel Palatino, and Kolbe Hotel Rome, with the Grand Hotel Palatino being the nearest at just 400 meters away.
With delightful weather and reduced crowds, Rome provides the perfect opportunity for outdoor pursuits, including extended city strolls and sunset aperitivos at rooftop bars with views of the Pantheon or Piazza Navona. September is also a month filled with numerous cultural events and festivals in Rome. Among the most eagerly awaited festivals of the year is the Sagra dell'Uva, commonly referred to as the Marino wine festival or the Grape Festival, which usually takes place in September or October. This yearly celebration draws thousands of visitors from across the country to the Roman hills.
Hotel Golden is a super rated 2-star hotel, located 1,9 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Villa Borghese Gardens, Villa Medici, Carlo Bilotti Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art of Rome, Column of Antoninus Pius and Trevi Fountain. Find more other super rated 2-star hotels in Rome.
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Hotel Sant' Anna is a super rated 3-star hotel, located 2,2 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are St. Peter's Basilica, Santa Maria in Traspontina, Castel Sant'Angelo, Ponte Sant'Angelo, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and Piazza Navona. Find more other super rated 3-star hotels in Rome.
iQ Hotel Roma is a super rated 4-star hotel, located 1,3 km from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Column of Antoninus Pius, Santa Maria Maggiore, Villa Medici, Trevi Fountain, Trajan's Forum, Capitoline Hill, Roman Forum, Villa di Massenzio, and Colosseum. Find more other super rated 4-star hotels in Rome.
Conclusion
If you're considering a vacation in September but are uncertain about where to go, the article "5 Top Destinations in September 2025, from Seoul to Rome" serves as a great reference for your trip. This piece not only highlights enjoyable weather, reduced rainfall, fewer tourists, and outdoor activities available, but it also provides details on highly-rated hotels ranging from 2-star to 4-star that are both stylish and budget-conscious. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance if you choose to visit one of the cities featured in the "5 Top Destinations in September 2025."