10 Budget-Friendly Destinations to Visit in September

August 24, 2026

Summer isn’t over yet, but for those already thinking about the next getaway, the moment may have arrived to look beyond August. September and October are the shoulder-season months: that period of the year when many European destinations still enjoy pleasant days and mild temperatures, while the peak of prices and of summer begins to fade away.

To confirm once again that traveling in this particular period can be a smart strategy, there is a new Kayak analysis that has identified destinations where not only are September and October 2026 flights more affordable than July and August, but they are also cheaper than the same period in 2025. This is what the search engine defines as the “double value”: a real double advantage for all those who choose to depart outside peak season. Building on the study, here are the 10 destinations to consider for a September-October trip, where prices fall, but the will to travel remains strong, among European destinations, Italian ones, and even a particular overseas destination.

Puerto del Rosario, Fuerteventura (Spain)

If you’re not yet ready to give up on summer, Fuerteventura is one of the destinations to consider. Puerto del Rosario is the starting point for exploring the island’s great beaches: the Corralejo Dunes and the wild Cofete. Here the average flight price drops by 30% compared to July-August and by 21% compared to 2025.

Corvera, Murcia (Spain)

A less predictable Mediterranean Spain, where mixing sea and cities is what Corvera offers: from there you can reach Murcia, stroll through the historic center and visit the spectacular cathedral, or head toward the Mar Menor and La Manga. The average flight cost falls by 24% compared to summer and by 18% compared to 2025.

Porto (Portugal)

Porto is perfect for getting lost in the streets of the Ribeira, crossing the Dom Luís I Bridge, and stopping at a winery in Vila Nova de Gaia to sample the city’s famous wine. And if you have a few extra days, there’s also the Douro Valley. Flights drop by 24% compared with summer and by 16% compared to 2025.

Bilbao (Spain)

Here the double value is particularly compelling: a 38% reduction compared with July-August and a 20% reduction compared with 2025, the largest drop in the selection. In Bilbao, you shouldn’t miss the Guggenheim, the Casco Viejo, and a stroll along the Nervión. And for dinner, a round of pintxos is a must.

Paphos (Cyprus)

If you want to keep chasing the sun even as autumn approaches, Paphos is a good candidate. Between sea, archaeological sites, and Mediterranean sunsets, September still offers pleasant weather that lets you explore the area with summer vibes. Flights drop by 14% compared with summer and by 15% compared to 2025.

Pisa (Italy)

Here is the first Italian destination for those who want to plan a city break while staying in Italy: Pisa, in fact, can be much more than the obligatory photo in front of the Leaning Tower. After Piazza dei Miracoli, it’s worth exploring Tuscany, from Lucca to the romantic hills, up to the coast.

Verona (Italy)

A weekend between the Arena, Piazza delle Erbe and Ponte Pietra, with a detour to Lake Garda: Verona in September is perfect for combining art, walks and nature. Flight prices typically fall by 33% compared with July-August and by 17% compared with 2025.

Dubrovnik (Croatia)

The city walls, the historic center and the Adriatic Sea are just some of the sights to admire in Dubrovnik, which in September preserves its summer charm but with a decidedly more livable atmosphere. The drop is 9% compared with summer and reaches 20% compared with 2025.

Cracow (Poland)

Cracow is also ideal for a low-cost city break in Europe: from Rynek Główny, the large medieval square, to Wawel Castle, and the vibes of Kazimierz. Here, flights cost on average 27% less than in summer and 13% less than in 2025.

Atlanta (United States)

For those looking to completely change scenery, there’s Atlanta. Why should you discover it? Here you can visit the World of Coca-Cola, stroll through the greenery of the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and discover the city’s more historic side. The average flight remains higher due to distance, but drops by 21% compared with summer and by 19% compared with 2025.

Maya Bennett

Maya Bennett

I’m a travel writer passionate about responsible tourism, overlooked destinations and the people who give each place its identity. Through my articles, I explore practical ways to travel more thoughtfully while supporting local communities and protecting the natural world.