'Best European country' to visit in September when most tourists have gone home

A travel expert has revealed that September is the best time to visit this popular European destination if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

While many of Europe’s top destinations end up rammed during the summer months, September remains an underrated time for holidaymakers. With mild weather, fewer crowds and kids back in school, it can actually be the best way to experience a new place – regardless of whether you want to unwind or explore.

However, there is one European country in particular that is a must-see once the crowds die down, according to travel vlogger Clara Alessandria. In a TikTok video, Clara revealed that September is one of the best times to visit Italy. Not only is the weather easier to handle, but there are far fewer crowds.

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The TikTokker has lived in Italy for over 20 years and has made several guides allowing visitors to “travel like a local”, which means she has plenty of experience with the country’s tourism industry.

She explained: “[In September] the weather is still super warm, but not boiling hot like during summer, so you can visit cities and countryside without having to sweat all day long.” As an added bonus, she explains that the sea is also at its most pleasant as it has been “warming up all summer”.

Plus, it’s also a much quieter time to visit. She continued: “While you will find some tourists around, there will be nowhere near as many as in summer, which makes it a lot more enjoyable – especially for visiting touristy places.”

Many commenters were quick to confirm that September was an idyllic time to go. One wrote: “I can attest to this! I spent 3.5 weeks in Italy mid-September to early October and it was INCREDIBLE!!!!”

A second added: “Agree! September is such a great month for a feel-good Italian vacation.” A third even jokingly chastised her for spilling the “secret”. They wrote: “Noo, why did you say the secret, the first three months of summer are for tourists and September is for locals.”

If you're wondering where in Italy to visit, there are plenty of popular options, including Rome, Florence and Sicily.

However, if you're looking for somewhere a little more under the radar, a travel journalist recently revealed her favourite Italian holiday spot, as previously reported by The Mirror.

Writing in Business Insider, Kaitlyn Rosati, who has explored every region in Italy, said she considered the region of Basilicata to be "the country's best-kept secret".