Budget travel: Countries where September is a shoulder season

September marks the sweet spot of shoulder season in many destinations—offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to peak tourist months. For budget travelers, this is the ideal time to explore stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures without breaking the bank. Here are five countries where September is a shoulder season, promising affordable adventures and unforgettable experiences. Smaller crowds mean authentic experiences. From Morocco’s souks to Croatia’s beaches, these destinations prove you can travel far, live large, and still have cash for your next adventure.

Portugal in September means mild weather and fewer tourists after the summer rush. The is also the season for grape harvest, which means wine tasting can be on your itinerary. For wine tasting and vineyard visits, check out Douro Valley or Porto. Lisbon’s historic trams and Algarve’s pristine beaches should be on your to-do list. Flights and accommodation costs will be a lot lesser than the peak season.

Vietnam in September-October offers drier weather in the south and lush landscapes in Hoi An and Hanoi. The crowd thins out by now and travellers will find good deals on tours to Ha Long Bay or Sapa’s rice terraces. Vietnam is perfect for backpackers. Street food and hostels will help save a lot of money. There might be occasional rain, so pack accordingly.

Peru’s shoulder season brings mild, sunny weather to Machu Picchu and Cusco, with fewer crowds than summer. It’s ideal for hiking. Daily costs in Peru will come around USD 30-40, with hostels at USD 8-12 and local meals at USD 3-5. Machu Picchu entry is around USD 45 if booked early.

Morocco in shoulder season offers warm days and cooler nights, perfect for exploring Marrakech’s old souks or the Sahara. This time around the crowds thin out, and prices drop, perfect for budget travellers. Pick up stunning souvenirs from Fes’ medina or visit the UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou kasbah.

Croatia’s Adriatic coast shines in September’s shoulder season with warm seas and fewer cruise ship crowds in Dubrovnik and Split. It’s ideal for island-hopping or exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park. When exploring Croatia, rent scooters to check out rural areas.