Where to go in France in September: 5 destinations to enjoy the end of the summer

September is the perfect time to plan your summer vacations. Back to school is in full swing, your colleagues are back in the office, leaving you plenty of time to enjoy France's deserted beaches and most beautiful destinations without the tourists. It's the perfect time to enjoy an Indian summer in France before autumn arrives. To help you find the ideal destination to go to in France in September, our experts have set about comparing the best September vacation spots in France and created a comprehensive top 5 destinations to go to in September 2024 guide.
Where to go in France in September 2024:

1. Oléron Island for a luminous island escape.
2. French Riviera: a getaway between Nice and Menton.
3. Saint-Malo: to enjoy the best Brittany has to offer.
4. Marseille: for a dip in the azure waters of its calanques.
5. Corsica: for a heavenly vacation under the Corsican sun.

1. Oléron Island: discover the island of light

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The first destination on our list of the best regions in France to visit in September is Oleron Island. This island on the Atlantic coast will give you a change of scene from the moment you arrive. With its colored fishermen's huts, its wild beaches and its oyster route, the Island or Oléron will seduce you with its authentic charm and the variety of activities on offer on the island.
September is the perfect month to enjoy the Indian summer on an island little known to foreign tourists, guaranteeing you a truly intimate September vacation in France.
Among the island's must-sees, here are our 3 favorite sites and places to visit on the Isle of Oléron:

1. The fishermen's huts at Grand Village Plage and Saint-Trojan-les-Bains: these superb, colorful huts have been restored and are now home to many local artisans.
2. The very famous Fort Boyard: whether you choose to take a jetski tour around the Fort or by boat this is a must-see if you were a fan of the very famous game show.
3. Chassiron lighthouse: climb the 224 steps of this striped lighthouse to enjoy a panoramic view over Oléron.

Is the weather nice on the Oléron Island in September?

The climate on the island of Oléron is dry in September, perfect for making the most of the last days of summer. With temperatures rising to 73°C and water temperatures averaging 20°, you'll be able to enjoy many outdoor activities, as well as water sports, on your vacation in September in France.
The weather in September on the island of Oléron:

What to do on the Oléron Island in September

The Island of Oléron is the largest island in mainland France after Corsica (with 174m²). So during your September vacation on the island, you'll have plenty to keep you busy. Among our favorite activities to do on the island of Oléron, we recommend you book one of the following:

• Surf in one of France's best spots: the beaches of Saint-Trojan-les-Bains, Grand-Village and Saint-Denis d'Oléron are our favorites and unknown to the majority of foreign tourists.
• Enjoy a well-deserved spa break: the Saint Trojan-les-Bains thalasso center offers top-quality services with incredible ocean views.
• Take in the sunset from a catamaran: there's nothing more exotic than watching the sun set from the water and the island transform once night has fallen.

Where to sleep on the island of Oleron for your French vacation in September?

If you've decided to go on vacation to the island of Oleron in September, we strongly advise you to choose one of the following two establishments offering incredible value for money:

• Hôtel Novotel Thalassa Island of Oléron - Saint-Trojan-les-Bains (4 stars): with its top-of-the-range facilities, large ocean-view terrace and spa, the Novotel hotel is the perfect establishment for a relaxing vacation in September.
• Hôtel et spa les Cleunes Oléron - Saint-Trojan-les-Bains (3 stars): just a few steps from Saint-Trojan-les-Bains town center and casino, this 41-room establishment is ideal for cocooning evenings once your day exploring the island is over.

How to get to Oleron Island

The car is the most suitable means of locomotion to reach the island of Oleron. It's possible to book a flight or train to La Rochelle, but you'll need to rent a car once you're there, so you can make the most of your September vacation on Oleron.
From the major French cities, you'll need to allow for the following driving times to reach the Ile d'Oléron:

• Paris - Island of Oléron: 5h45 by car (522km).
• Lyon - Island of Oléron: 7h15 by car (693km).
• Lille - Island of Oléron : 8h by car (740km).
• Marseille - Island of Oléron: 8h10 by car (km).
• Bordeaux - Island of Oléron : 2h30 by car (180km).
• Nantes - Island of Oléron : 2h50 by car (211km).

2. The French Riviera: rediscover Nice and Menton

The French Riviera and more particularly Nice and Menton are in second place on our list of the best destinations to go to in France in September. Nice and Menton are among France's most beautiful towns and villages, and are unfortunately often overrun by tourists during the summer season. Booking a vacation in Nice in September is the best way to enjoy the Indian summer sunshine, as well as tourist-free streets and beaches.
You'll be able to stroll along the famous promenade des anglais, marvel at the beauty of the place Massena but also enjoy the exceptional panorama from the gardens of the colline du château.
In addition to the 3 must-see places already mentioned, we strongly advise you to add the 3 must-do places in Nice and Menton below to your list of things to see:

• La place Rossetti in Nice: this must-see square in the center of old Nice has an Italian flair.
• La place aux Herbes in Menton: this square in the village of Menton will plunge you into the heart of Provence with its ceramic decorations and terraces.
• La plage de Menton: with its fine sand or pebbles and the view of the village's colorful little houses, there's nothing better than a little idleness to make the most of your September vacation.

Is the weather nice in Nice in September?

September is the ideal time to visit Nice and Menton. In addition to the absence of July and August, you'll enjoy a dry, sunny climate. With an average temperature of 23°C, you'll escape the stifling heat of summer. The sea temperature is also ideal for swimming.
Weather in Nice in September:

What to do on the French Riviera in September

If you're looking for things to do around Nice during your September vacation, we recommend booking one of the following experiences:

• Discover the splendor of the French Riviera towns of Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Paul de Vence: discover these iconic Côte d'Azur locations between ocean blue, Provencal landscape and medieval architecture.
• Enjoy a boat trip between Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Nice: watch the sun set over the horizon after admiring the Riviera and enjoying a snorkelling break.
• Admire the largest collection of works by Matisse in the Villa des Arènes: once the visit is over, you can admire the Cimiez archaeological museum and the magnificent gardens.

Where to stay in Nice for your vacation in France in September?

If you've decided to choose the Côte d'Azur as your September vacation destination in France, we recommend you book one of the following establishments:

• Radisson Blu Hotel Nice - Nice (stars): to enjoy a unique vacation with a breathtaking view over the Bay of Angels, the Radisson Blu is the perfect hotel for you. With its rooftop, luxurious rooms and attentive staff, you'll be charmed by this establishment.
• Aparthotel Adagio Nice Promenade des Anglais - Nice (4 stars): if you want the privacy of an apartment, the Apparthotel Adagio are perfect for enjoying a prime location on the promenade as well as the comfort of a fully-equipped apartment.

If you really want to pamper yourself during your September vacation in Nice, we suggest you consult our guide to the best establishments in the capital of the French Riviera.

• Read also: 5 luxury hotels in Nice for a weekend.

How to get to Nice and the French Riviera

Nice is one of the best served cities in France. Whether you choose to travel to Nice by car, train, bus or plane, you'll find it easy to organize your vacation in the capital of the French Riviera.
To give you an idea of how long it will take to get to Nice, depending on your departure city and means of transport, our experts have drawn up the following table:

3. Saint-Malo: discover one of Brittany's most beautiful towns under the sun

Third city in our guide to the best destinations to go to in France in September, Saint-Malo a true emblem of Brittany. Far from the Mediterranean and the usual destinations for summer vacations in France, we're sure that Saint-Malo will make your heart skip a beat. Under the Indian summer sun, you can admire the historic heart of this medieval city. Between its ramparts, its château and above all its Digue, which offers a breathtaking view of the Breton town, it will be hard for you not to fall in love with Brittany.
With no tourists, temperatures averaging 20° and only 4 days of rain during the month, all the conditions are right for you to enjoy your vacation in France in September.
Among the must-see places in Saint-Malo, here are our 3 favorites:

• The Sculptured Rocks: to the north of the town, its Breton granite sculptures are in perfect harmony with the surrounding wilderness.
• A little idleness or sporting activity on the Sillion beach: ranked among the most beautiful beaches in France, enjoy the Breton sea air during your vacation.
• A trip to Mont Saint-Michel: make the most of your vacation to visit one of France's most beautiful wonders without having to sneak up on the tourists.

Is the weather nice in Saint-Malo in September?

With average temperatures around 20°C and only 4 days of rain, September is the ideal month to go on vacation to Saint-Malo. Temperatures on the English Channel will be a little cooler, with water at 18°, perfect for the more adventurous.
September weather in Saint-Malo:

What to do in Saint-Malo in September

To make the most of your September vacation in Saint-Malo, here's our list of activities not to be missed during your stay in Brittany:

• Swim at the foot of the ramparts on Bon-Secours beach: this cult Saint-Malo beach also has a seawater swimming pool. For the more sporty, take advantage of the kayak and catamaran club to set off on an excursion from the beach.
• Take a microlight flight to admire Saint-Malo Bay and Mont Saint-Michel: a unique experience for a memorable vacation in France in September.
• Enjoy a moment out of time at the Thermes marins de Saint-Malo: considered one of the best thermal baths in France, take advantage of your vacation to pamper yourself.

Where to stay in Saint-Malo for your September vacation in France?

If you've decided to go to Saint-Malo in September, the following two establishments are among the hotels most recommended by our customers:

• Grand Hôtel des Thermes - Saint-Malo (5 stars): if you want to stay in an iconic Saint-Malo location this is the establishment par excellence. With its prime location and Belle Epoque architecture, this 5-star establishment will help make your vacation a timeless experience.
• Golden Tulip Le Grand Bé - Saint-Malo (4 stars) : in the heart of Saint Malo intramuros; the Gran Bé is an establishment where refinement and modernity blend while respecting the heritage of this 1900s hotel. The hotel's spa, restaurant and bar are perfect if you want to enjoy the comfort of the hotel once your day is over.

How to get to Saint-Malo

To get to Saint-Malo for your September vacation, the town is easily accessible by car or train from all major French cities.
To give you an idea of how long it will take to get there by car or train, our experts have compiled all the information in the following table:

4. Marseille: enjoy the calanques without the tourists

The penultimate city in our Top 5 destinations to go to in France in September, Marseille. The Phocaean city is adored by holidaymakers and foreign tourists alike during July and August, and for good reason. The city has so much to offer. Going to Marseille in France in September is ideal, as you'll avoid the tourist crowds of the summer period, while enjoying the warmth of the Indian summer. Coming to Marseille in September means being able to enjoy the Vieux Port with the locals, admire the basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde without crowds clumping around its forecourt and, above all, swim in the crystalline waters of the calanques without having to play elbow-to-elbow.
Marseille in September is the destination par excellence. Here are our 3 favorite places to visit during your vacation in Marseille:

1. La basilique Bonne Mère (Notre Dame de la Garde): this Romanesque-Byzantine church is a must-see if you come to Marseille.
2. The colorful graffiti on the Cours Julien stairs: discover Marseille's street art in the heart of the city's alleyways.
3. Les calanques (again and again): the park is a true French natural treasure that will take you thousands of kilometers away without leaving the hexagon.

If we've managed to convince you and you've decided tochoose Marseille as your vacation destination where to go in France in September, don't hesitate to consult our complete travel guide. We'll show you the best places to go and things to do in Marseille.

• Read also: Visit Marseille the complete guide

Is the weather nice in Marseille in September?

September is the perfect month to take a vacation in Marseille. Not only will you enjoy the city without the influx of tourists, but you'll have pleasant weather with an average of 25°C and water at 22°C. Rain is rare if not non-existent in September.
Weather in Marseille in September :

What to do in Marseille in September

If you're in the mood for sun, beach paradise and unusual activities, Marseille is the ideal destination for your vacation. If you want to make your September vacation in Marseille an extraordinary one, we recommend adding one of the following activities to your bucket list:

• A day cruise aboard a sailboat in the calanques: discover Marseille's most beautiful calanques, dive into the azure water and sip a cool drink on board.
• Visit Marseille by sidecar for an unusual tour of the region: set off in a sidecar and discover the districts of the Vieux-Port, the Basilica and the Gourdes.
• Discover the vineyards of Bandol and Cassis from Marseille: explore the village of Le Castellet, the creeks of Cassis and learn from the winemaker all the secrets of their appellations.

Where to stay in Marseille for your vacation in France in September?

If you've chosen Marseille as your destination for a September vacation in France, we recommend that you book one of the following establishments for your stay:

• Mama Shelter Marseille - (3 stars): this establishment is a favorite for us. Its incredible value for money and geographical location make it a rare gem for your vacation in Marseille.
• Maisons du Monde Hotel & Suites - Marseille Vieux Port - (4 stars): close to the Vieux Port, the Maison du Monde hotel is a real gem if you want to enjoy a refined establishment with incredible decor. You'll be speechless once you've crossed the threshold.

How to get to Marseille

Like Nice, Marseille is extremely well served, making it easy to organize your September vacation in France. Whether you choose to travel by car, bus, train or even plane, there are plenty of routes available every day. The TGV Saint Charles station in the city center and the Marseille Provence airport (30 minutes by public transport from the center) give you easy access to the heart of the city.
To give you an idea of the journey time for each mode of transport, our experts have produced the following summary table:

(high-speed train)

5. Corsica: an island getaway in the heart of the Mediterranean

Last place on our list of the best destinations to go to in France in September in the sun, Corsica. You may have been expecting it, but September is the best month of the year to enjoy the Isle of Beauty. The back-to-school season has left the beaches deserted, so you'll be able to enjoy all that Corsica has to offer.
Depending on the length of your vacation and whether or not it's your first time on the Isle of Beauty, there are several possible itineraries for your stay:

• Organize a road trip in South Corsica in 1 week to discover heavenly beaches.
• Stay in Bastia or Calvi in northern Corsica (be sure to visit the Calanques de Piana).
• Enjoy the region of Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio and their heavenly beaches and islands.

Corsica is the perfect destination if you want to enjoy the warmth of the Indian summer, heavenly natural scenery and a wide range of activities. Whether you're into hiking, water sports, history, nature or simply far niente on the beach, you're sure to find what you're looking for in Corsica.
Good to know: to make the most of your September vacation, we recommend choosing a specific destination in Corsica. It's a big island, and unless you've got 3 weeks off, it'll be hard to see everything.

Is the weather nice in Corsica in September?

Corsica enjoys a mild, dry Mediterranean climate, ideal for September vacations in the sun. Compared with July and August, temperatures are starting to drop. They generally don't exceed 82°C, which is perfect for swimming in September but also for not suffering from the summer heat.
For hiking enthusiasts, September is the month to enjoy Corsica's garrigue and scrubland without breaking a sweat.

What to do in Corsica in September

It's hard to make an exhaustive list of things to do in Corsica in September for your vacation, so wide and varied is the choice of activities on the Isle of Beauty. However, we can only recommend the following must-see activities and places:

• Take a boat out to discover the Lavezzi Islands: this little land paradise with its coves will transport you thousands of kilometers away from Europe.
• Discover the seabed at Porto-Vecchio: in one of Europe's most beautiful diving spots. Perfect for experienced divers and beginners alike.
• Hike in the Fango Valley: farewell to sandy beaches and azure waters, discover the lush green of this UNESCO-listed nature reserve. With swimming pools and sumptuous natural landscapes, you'll be breathless.

Where to sleep in Corsica for your French vacation in September?

The great thing about going on vacation to France in September is that you'll save on accommodation prices. With the high season behind you, you'll be able to book some incredible accommodation in Corsica at very attractive prices. Among our favorite hotels in Corsica, we recommend you book one of the following establishments:

• Domaine Santa Giulia Palace - Porto-Vecchio (4 stars): surely our favorite establishment in Corsica. With its harmonious natural decor, enchanting exteriors and ideal location 5 minutes' walk from Giulia beach, you'll be charmed by this establishment.
• Hôtel Le Bastia Bastia - (stars): right in the heart of Bastia, this 3-star hotel will let you enjoy this vibrant city. The hotel's quality furnishings and relaxing atmosphere are perfect for resting after a day of exploring.

How to get to Corsica

To get to Corsica for your vacation in France in September, you can choose to fly to Bastia or Ajaccio, or take a ferry from Toulon or Nice.
If you choose the ferry, you'll need to allow around 10h between Toulon and Ajaccio, and 8h to do Nice-Bastia.
By plane, you'll need to allow for the following journey times from most of France's major cities:

• Paris - Ajaccio: 1h50 on a direct flight
• Lyon - Ajaccio : 1h00 by direct flight
• Marseille - Ajaccio : 50min direct flight
• Bordeaux - Ajaccio : 1h30 by direct flight
• Lille - Ajaccio : 2h direct flight
• Nantes- Ajaccio : 1h45 direct flight

If you choose to fly, we recommend that you rent a car once you're on the island to get the most out of it.

Where will you be vacationing in France in September?

Between Island of Oléron, Marseille, Nice, Corsica and Saint-Malo, the choice is yours. These destinations, crowded with tourists in July and August, will reveal all their secrets to you on your September vacation in France.
If one of your friends or family doesn't know where to go in France in September, don't hesitate to share this guide with them so they can find the ideal destination. If you'd like to participate in their trip in some way, why not offer them an experience gift card? You can choose to offer them a flight, a night in a hotel or an activity in the destination of their choice, so they can enjoy a unique stay during their September vacation.
If you haven't found the perfect destination, or are looking for more travel tips, don't hesitate to consult the following articles:

• Where to go in Europe in October?
• The best autumn destinations in France