September is here and with it the summer travel season is coming to an end. Hordes of travelers are returning home in a modern day migration of people going back to work and kids back to school. September is a great month to travel and enjoy the last days of good weather amongst the thinning crowds of vacationers.

Below is my list of the top destinations to enjoy during this month.

PORTUGAL

First stop on my list is Portugal. This beautiful country offers vibrant cities, fantastic coastlines and small beautiful towns. A great place to start is Lisbon. This city invites you to explore and discover its history, beautiful architecture and active night life. While in Lisbon you must start in the historic Alfama and Castelo districts with incredible views of the city and the river. Other must see attractions include Jeronimos Monastery and the Tower of Belem (both World Heritage sites) . At night get lost in the narrow and winding streets of Chiado and Barrio Alto districts where you’ll be spoilt for choice for both bars and restaurants.

 

 

 

To the North of Lisbon is the dreamy city of Porto. It’s a romantic city whose true beauty shines at night when the sun sets over the Rio Douro river. It’s a majestic city of medieval relics, churches, bell towers and beautiful buildings. Porto is also known as the the birth place of port wine. Next to the Duoro river there are wine caves that line the Vila Nova de Gaia hosting cellars open for tasting.

 

Given that the full length of Portugal is connected to the Atlantic sea there are few countries that can match the beach options that Portugal offers its visitors. With over 800km of coast line, it has more than 150 beaches. There’s literally a beach for every taste. There are beaches for surfers, to sandy beaches packed with people, to large stretches of quiet beaches you can claim as your own. The most famous and beautiful beaches are in the south in Algarve. These are gorgeous golden sandy beaches framed by breathtaking cliffs. For fewer crowds, cast your eye up the west coast; there are scores of great beaches and laid-back coastal towns from the Alentejo all the way to the Minho and the Galician border