Six European destinations to catch some September sun
Although the summer season in Europe is drawing to a close, there are still destinations where you can laze on the beach, enjoy alfresco cocktails and wear t-shirts and shorts, all while basking in the sun. October is when things really begin to cool down, but until then, many destinations still offer plenty of warmth and sunshine. Here are six of them.
Seville
The Andalucian capital isn’t known as ‘the frying pan of Spain’ for nothing. It can get seriously hot during the summer in ‘Sevilla’ as it is known on Spanish soil, but in September the heat is far more pleasant. When you’re there you’ll find there is lots to do. The Alcazar, a Moorish palace dating back to the 4th century, is the city's best-known attraction and one of Europe’s most breathtaking. You can admire squares like Plaza de Espana and explore neighbourhoods like La Macarena, the area that inspired the famous one-hit-wonder from 1996. There are also lots of tapas bars to sample, my favourites being El Cordobes (Santa Maria la Blanca 18-20, Barrio de Santa Cruz) and Los Coloniales, Plaza Crist de Burgos 19, Alfalfa).
Dubrovnik
I remember telling somebody before that if I could only visit one place for the rest of my life, and it was Dubrovnik, I’d die a happy man. I really do love it that much. This city in southern Croatia is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s got history, scenery, the sea, sunshine, character, food, islands and good nightlife options. I’ve been there six times and already I can’t wait until the next time.
Athens
You might think that you need to take a ferry from the Greek capital to be able to laze on a beach in Greece, but the good news is you don’t. Less than 12km from Athens is the town of Piraeus, a port town where the ferries to the islands depart from, but also one that has a beach worth visiting if you don’t want to explore the archaeological sites of Athens. If you do, you’ll have the pleasure of doing it under the Greek sun. If you’re wondering where to go out once said sun goes in, my advice is to go to Gazi, a cool neighbourhood teeming with bars and restaurants.
Naples
When people think of what cities to explore when making their way through Italy, Naples isn’t always at the top of the list. Instead many flock to Rome, Venice and Florence. While there’s nothing wrong with any of those cities, it’s nice to venture down south to see all Naples has to offer. As well as warmer climes due to its location, it boasts stunning views over the Bay of Naples, some of the nicest pizza you’ll ever taste (go to Sorbillo at 32, Via Tribulani) and a beach to catch the last of the September rays on.
Istanbul
Istanbul is unique because it’s the only city in the world where you can visit two continents on the same day. On one side is Europe, where you’ll find the commercial centre, buzzing markets, restaurants, nightclubs and famous buildings like the Blue Mosque. On the Asian side, you’ll discover things are less crowded and a lot slower. Thankfully around this time of year, no matter what part of town you’re in, the sun will still be shining.
Barcelona
Ask anyone what's their favourite city in the world and many will tell you it's Barcelona. I can see why – it’s home to one of the world’s most famous football teams, it’s got breathtaking architecture, enough museums and galleries to serve the appetite of any culture vulture, and a plethora of bars and nightclubs. It’s also got a beach, meaning you’ve got the choice of sightseeing or sunbathing.
Written by Colm Hanratty
Colm first got the travel bug when he went to Australia in 1999 on a working holiday visa. Since then he hasn’t looked back.
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