What is the best month for vacation in 2026: results of a new study

ABTA experts conducted research and identified the best month for vacation in 2026. Find out which month came out on top and why

Electronic road vignette for traveling in Europe

BUY

Against the backdrop of record heat that has been covering European countries in the summer in recent years, more and more travelers are reviewing their usual plans and looking for a more comfortable period for their vacation. In addition, the weather conditions are accompanied by a desire to avoid tourist crowds and save money - after all, popular resorts are traditionally more expensive during the season.

The latest Travel Trends Report 2026 from the British travel association ABTA conducted a survey to identify the best month for a vacation and revealed a clear trend - more and more people are choosing September for travel. Experts predict that in 2026 the first month of autumn will finally be established as the best month for a vacation. We will tell you about the reasons and advantages in this article.

The rating of the best cities for hiking in this article.

Read the rules for leaving Ukraine and the requirements for crossing the border here.

Why did September become the best month for a vacation in 2026?

According to the study, every fourth TTR-2026 survey participant, namely 24%, is planning their next vacation for September 2026. This is a significant increase for the first month of autumn, compared to 2023, when May was the most popular and only 17% of respondents chose the autumn months for vacation. The change in trend is explained by several factors:

- Milder weather in September compared to the exhausting summer heat;

- Lower prices after the peak season;

- More comfortable conditions for sightseeing and active recreation;

- Significantly smaller tourist flows.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

What age groups of tourists prefer to vacation in September?

September is gaining popularity among all age groups of tourists, but the leaders remain older travelers – 29% in the 55–64 age group and 35% among respondents 65+.

However, the biggest jump in interest was recorded among young and middle-aged people:

- 18–24 years old: from 11% to 17%

- 35–44 years old: from 12% to 20%

This indicates that September travel is becoming a universal trend that attracts different generations.

For whom is September the ideal month for a vacation?

Analysts also pay attention: September is traditionally chosen by those who do not have children, because vacation at this time is not tied to the school year.

In addition, the weather is still very warm, and the smaller number of family tourists allows you to enjoy the beaches, nature and cities without the seasonal excitement.

What to do during your vacation in September?

September is a great time for:

- Romantic trips;

- Gastrotours during the harvest period;

- Active recreation - trekking, excursions, cycling routes;

- Budget trips to popular locations.

Top of the most popular places to travel at the link.

September is rapidly moving from the category of “off-season” to the status of an ideal month for vacation. Comfortable weather, affordable prices, fewer tourists and broad support for this trend among different age groups make it the most attractive choice for travel in 2026. If you are also looking for a harmonious combination of comfort, peace and the opportunity to save money - you should plan your next vacation for the beginning of autumn.

When planning to travel around Europe by your own car, it is important to know that many countries have a toll highway system, and an electronic road vignette is a mandatory document.

E-vignette is a digital confirmation of payment of the toll, which eliminates the need to buy paper stickers and greatly simplifies road control. Registration takes only a few minutes online, and the data is instantly registered in the pan-European system.

Don't risk getting a fine - apply for an e-vignette now and travel confidently and without obstacles!

Recall! We have already told you that experts have named five European cities where a winter trip will be beautiful and affordable. Read here what destinations Travel Off Path recommends and how much a vacation in these locations costs.

Photo – Freepik

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.