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Top Budget Travel Spots for September

Look at these ten destinations for an affordable trip in September. We break down the costs and what to expect during this month.

10 places3 min readUpdated 7 November 2026
Finding the Cheapest State to Visit in September
The short answer

There is no single cheapest state to visit in September, as travel costs depend heavily on your origin and accommodation choices. Argentina and Portugal offer lower costs of living than parts of the United States or Switzerland, making them better value for your money during this month.

These selections focus on locations with manageable weather and fewer crowds in September. We evaluated these based on local prices and the reality of traveling there during the shoulder season.

1

Waterfalls on the border

Iguazu Falls·Argentina
Aerial view of Foz de Iguaçu, Brazil-Argentina border.
Photo: Mariordo (Mario Roberto Durán Ortiz), CC BY-SA 4.0

These falls sit between Argentina and Brazil. September is a good time to visit because the weather is mild before the summer heat arrives. The Argentine side holds the majority of the waterfalls. You can spend a full day walking the trails here. International flights are the biggest expense. Once you reach the local area, food and park entry fees are relatively low.

Suits
Travelers who want nature without extreme heat.
Worth knowing
Expect to spend two full days to see both sides of the park properly.
Planning Iguazu Falls?

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2

A major city in Brazil

Rio !
Photo: Rafael Rabello de Barros, CC BY-SA 3.0

Rio is the second largest city in Brazil. September brings pleasant temperatures as the city moves out of winter. Many people visit for the beaches and the city culture. It is a large urban area with millions of residents. You should budget carefully for accommodation in popular neighborhoods. Prices can spike depending on local events.

Suits
People looking for a mix of city life and coastal scenery.
Worth knowing
Public safety is a concern in some parts of the city, so stay alert.
Planning Rio de Janeiro?

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3

Historic palace in Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle at Schwangau, Bavaria, Germany.
Photo: Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, CC BY-SA 3.0 de

This 19th century palace is located in the foothills of the Alps. September is a popular time, but it is less crowded than midsummer. It is situated near the village of Hohenschwangau. The area is hilly and requires some walking. Entrance tickets sell out quickly. You must book your time slot weeks in advance to ensure entry.

Suits
Architecture enthusiasts who enjoy mountain scenery.
Worth knowing
The uphill walk to the entrance is steep and takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
Planning Neuschwanstein Castle?

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4

Arizona slot canyon

Antelope Canyon·United States
The Antelope Canyon in Arizona.

This slot canyon is located on Navajo land in Arizona. September is one of the best months because the extreme heat of summer begins to fade. The canyon is narrow and famous for its light patterns. You must enter with a guided tour group. It is not a cheap outing. Because it is on tribal land, tour prices are fixed and can be quite high.

Suits
Photographers and hikers interested in unique rock formations.
Worth knowing
You cannot visit these canyons on your own; you must pay for a guided tour.
Planning Antelope Canyon?

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5

Portuguese island region

Madeira·Portugal
Region Madeira
Photo: Tschubby, CC BY-SA 3.0

Madeira is an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. September offers warm weather and calm seas for visitors. The island is known for its rugged landscape and coastal views. It is a territory of Portugal and part of the European Union. Prices are generally lower than in mainland European cities. Dining out is affordable if you avoid the main tourist strips.

Suits
Outdoor lovers who enjoy hiking and nature trails.
Worth knowing
Public transport is limited, so renting a car is almost necessary to see the island.
Planning Madeira?

These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.

Real tours in Madeira, booked on GetYourGuide

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6

Arizona national park

Grand Canyon·United States
Grand Canyon in Winter

The canyon is a massive geological feature carved by the Colorado River. September is ideal because the temperatures at the rim are comfortable. It is a large area with many viewpoints. Many visitors stay in nearby towns to avoid high park lodge prices. Food and fuel inside the park are expensive. Pack your own supplies before entering the gates to save money.

Suits
Hikers and people interested in geology.
Worth knowing
The park is remote and requires a long drive from the nearest major airport.
Planning Grand Canyon?

These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.

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7

Brazilian archipelago

Baía dos Porcos
Photo: Eduardo Muruci, CC BY-SA 3.0

This group of islands is located off the coast of Brazil. September is an excellent time for clear water and calm conditions. The area is protected, and the number of daily visitors is strictly limited. It is not a budget destination. Expect to pay an environmental tax upon arrival. Everything on the island is expensive because almost all goods must be shipped in.

Suits
Divers and snorkelers looking for marine life.
Worth knowing
Costs are high due to limited infrastructure and daily visitor caps.
Planning Fernando de Noronha?

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8

Swiss Alpine peak

Matterhorn·Switzerland
The Matterhorn seen from the Domhütte (Valais). Elevation points from Swisstopo.
Photo: Photo: chil, on Camptocamp.org Derivative work:Zacharie Grossen, CC BY-SA 3.0

This mountain sits on the border between Switzerland and Italy. September is the end of the climbing season, offering stable weather. It is a very famous mountain and a symbol of the Alps. The surrounding towns are geared toward high-end tourism. This is an expensive destination. Expect to pay premium prices for food, lodging, and transport in the Swiss mountains.

Suits
Serious mountain climbers and alpine hikers.
Worth knowing
The weather changes rapidly, so you need proper gear even in September.
Planning Matterhorn?

These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.

Real tours in Matterhorn, booked on GetYourGuide

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9

Italian mountain range

Dolomites·Italy
Cortina d'Ampezzo seen from Faloria
Photo: kallerna, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Dolomites are in northeastern Italy. September is a quiet month as the summer hiking season ends and the autumn weather starts. The range covers several provinces and regions. It is a large area, so pick one base town to minimize travel time. Prices are moderate compared to Switzerland. You can find good value in locally owned mountain huts or smaller guesthouses.

Suits
Hikers who want access to well-marked trails.
Worth knowing
Many mountain huts close for the season by late September, so check dates.
Planning Dolomites?

These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.

Real tours in Dolomites, booked on GetYourGuide

Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

10

London skyscraper

The Shard·United Kingdom
The Shard at sunset.
Photo: Colin, CC BY-SA 4.0

The Shard is a tall building in London. September offers a better chance of clear skies for viewing the city from above. It contains offices and an observation deck. The view covers much of the city. Entry to the viewing platform is pricey. You pay for the height and the location, not for an all-day experience.

Suits
People who want a high-altitude view of a major capital city.
Worth knowing
Wait times are long during weekends, so book an early morning slot.
Planning The Shard?

These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.

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What people wish they had broughtFor the places on this page

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Plan your travel dates early to avoid the highest prices for flights and lodging. Check if your destination requires any special permits before you arrive.

Questions people ask


Is September a cheap month to travel?

September is often cheaper than July or August because families are back to school. Many hotels lower their prices during this time.

What is the best way to save money in September?

Book your flights at least three months in advance and look for hotels outside the main city centers. Eating at local grocery stores for lunch can save a lot of money.

Are national parks expensive in September?

Entrance fees usually remain the same, but lodging near the parks often becomes more affordable. You may still need to book campsites months ahead.

Is the weather reliable in September?

It depends on the region. Mountain areas can get cold quickly, while coastal areas often remain warm and pleasant through the end of the month.

Somewhere to stay on this trip

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More of this, as we publish it

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