September Escapes: Study Hard, Travel Smart
Welcome back to our Fall in Europe travel guide, where I’ll be highlighting some of my favorite weekend trips to take while studying abroad. This week, we’ll dive into September- the sweet spot for study abroad weekend travel—summer crowds have thinned, flights are cheaper, and the weather is still warm enough to explore without a jacket (or a plan). Whether you're chasing fall colors in the Alps or sneaking in one last beach weekend, it's the perfect month to start checking off your travel bucket list. With classes just getting started and the vibe still feeling fresh, it’s the ideal time to pack light, hop a train, and say yes to a spontaneous adventure!
September Weekend Trip Recommendations
Amalfi Coast, Italy
I say this with full confidence- September is THE best month to see the Amalfi Coast. It’s shoulder season, which means little to no crowds, but still incredible weather and lots to do. We stayed in a small Airbnb in Sorrento and loved it, though Positano is also lovely and there are tons of other small towns along the coast worth a look. My number one recommendation is to take a boat day trip to Capri, as the Blue Grotto and streets of beautiful shops and lemon-themed eateries are definitely a must see.
Munich, Germany
Contrary to popular belief, most of Oktoberfest actually takes place in September. I would classify Oktoberfest as a must visit if you’re abroad in the fall, as this was one of my favorite weekends we had. While it will be crowded and a bit expensive due to demand, Munich is definitely worth a visit this time of year. The energy is high, the beer gardens are buzzing, and everything feels festive but not overwhelming. It's the perfect time to soak up culture, history, and maybe a pretzel or two—Germany really knows how to do autumn right. There are gorgeous castles in the area, and lots of opportunities to brush up on history. Make sure to book accommodations early as it fills up quickly!
Paris, France
While very touristy, Paris is definitely worth a trip at least once in your life, and September is the best time to go. The cafés feel cozier, the Seine sparkles a little softer, and the whole city seems made for golden-hour strolls and wine-fueled evenings. Locals return from holiday, galleries reopen with new exhibits, and there’s just enough crispness in the air to make your morning croissant and cappuccinos taste even better. Palace of Versailles is worth a day trip if you have time, and be sure to book any museum tickets early as they may sell out. Also be sure to get student tickets if you have an ID to a European university while you’re studying abroad, as you’ll get huge discounts at many locations!
Porto, Portugal
A city I just recently discovered last summer, the beautiful Porto is an excellent spot for a September weekend getaway. It’s still warm enough for beach stops, but not too overwhelmingly hot for the crazy amount of steps and staircases you will be getting in. I would recommend Porto more for a romantic getaway(but you can still have an amazing trip with friends), as the stunning river views of Vila Nova de Gaia, breathtakingly beautiful blue and white chapels, and old fashioned bookstores and coffee shops feel like you’re in a movie. Our favorite memory from Porto was heading up to the Jardim de Morro for sunset one night. We bought a few bottles of cheap wine and listened to a local band play some amazing music as the colors danced over the Douro River.
Happy Travels!
Well, those are my best recs for any September getaways you’re planning in Europe! Hope you’re all enjoying the summer and making the most of the warmer weather. See you all next week for a deep dive into October!!
