New booking insights from Away Holidays reveal that destinations including Dubai, Mauritius, Sardinia, Turkey, Barcelona, Zanzibar and Egypt are among the most in-demand destinations for late summer and autumn breaks, with Thailand also proving popular for those looking further ahead to the end of the year.
With the UK weather becoming less predictable from September onwards, travellers are increasingly looking to destinations where they can still enjoy warm temperatures, sunshine and time outdoors. Average stays are currently around six to seven nights, with many holidaymakers also choosing to upgrade their accommodation for a more comfortable break.
Gianni Leone, Product Director at Away Holidays, says: “September and October are a great time to travel for people who want to hold on to a bit of summer, while November and December offer a chance to get some sunshine before Christmas.
“We’re seeing people become much more flexible about when they take their main holiday. Rather than seeing summer as the only time to travel, there’s a growing appetite for getting away later in the year, whether that’s a long weekend in Barcelona, a week in Turkey or a longer-haul escape to Mauritius or Zanzibar.”
The top destinations for late summer and autumn sunshine
1) Dubai
Gianni says, “Dubai is particularly well suited to the September to December period, when temperatures become more comfortable as the year progresses. By November and December, it offers warm sunshine without the intense heat of the summer months.
“It’s a great choice for travellers who want plenty of sunshine but also want a holiday with lots to do, from beaches and rooftop pools to desert excursions, shopping and dining.”
2) Mauritius
Gianni says, “Mauritius is a fantastic option for travellers looking to go further afield later in the year. With beautiful beaches, warm weather and plenty of high-quality resorts, it offers the kind of escape that feels like a real break from everyday life.
“It’s a particularly good choice for couples and families, with opportunities to relax on the beach as well as explore the island’s nature, food and local culture.”
3) Sardinia
Gianni explains, “Sardinia is a great choice for an early autumn break, particularly for travellers who want sunshine without the peak summer crowds. September can still bring warm temperatures, making it a good time to enjoy the island’s beaches and coastal towns.
“By travelling outside the busiest summer months, visitors can also experience a more relaxed side of Sardinia, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the food, scenery and local culture.”
4) Turkey
Gianni says, “Turkey is a strong option for sunshine in September and October, particularly along the southern coast. The weather remains warm, while the temperatures are often more comfortable for sightseeing and exploring than during the height of summer.
“Resorts around Antalya offer a great mix of beaches, excellent hotels and things to see and do, making Turkey a versatile choice for couples, families and groups.”
5) Barcelona
Gianni says, “Barcelona works particularly well for travellers looking for a shorter autumn break. September and October can still offer plenty of sunshine, while the cooler temperatures make it comfortable to explore the city on foot.
“From its architecture and beaches to its food markets and restaurants, it’s a destination where you can combine sunshine with a city break without needing to travel too far.”
6) Zanzibar
Gianni says, “For travellers looking for guaranteed warmth as autumn sets in, Zanzibar offers a complete change of scenery. Its beaches, warm waters and tropical climate make it ideal for those wanting to escape the cooler weather at home.
“It’s also a destination where you can combine time on the beach with exploring Stone Town, visiting spice farms or getting out on the water.”
7) Egypt
Gianni explains, “Egypt is one of the most reliable choices for sunshine from autumn through to winter. Resorts such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer warm weather, beaches and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sea well after summer has ended in the UK.
“It also works well for travellers who want more than just a beach holiday, with snorkelling, diving and the opportunity to experience some of the country’s incredible history.”
8) Pattaya
Gianni says, “Pattaya is a great option for travellers heading away towards the end of the year, with Thailand’s warmer climate offering a welcome contrast to the UK.
“Visitors can combine time on the beach with boat trips, local markets, restaurants and nightlife, making it a good option for those looking for a lively destination with plenty to experience.”
9) Khao Lak
Gianni says, “Khao Lak is a good choice for travellers looking for a quieter Thai escape. Its long beaches, warm weather and laid-back atmosphere make it particularly appealing for couples and families.
“It’s also a great base for exploring the surrounding area, whether that’s taking a boat trip, visiting national parks or simply enjoying some downtime at a beachfront resort.”
What are people booking?
September sunshine
September remains an attractive month for travellers who want to extend the summer, with destinations such as Turkey, Sardinia, Barcelona and Dubai offering warm weather without the peak-season feel.
October escapes
As temperatures begin to drop in the UK, destinations including Turkey, Dubai and Egypt offer an opportunity to enjoy some late-season sunshine, while longer-haul destinations provide a more tropical escape.
November warmth
November marks a shift towards longer-haul destinations, with Mauritius, Zanzibar and Thailand offering warmer temperatures and a chance to escape the start of the UK winter.
December breaks
December bookings provide a way to escape the colder weather before Christmas, with Dubai, Egypt, Mauritius, Zanzibar and Thailand offering a mix of sunshine, relaxation and festive getaways.
Upgraded stays
Holidaymakers are continuing to place value on the quality of their accommodation, with many choosing to upgrade their hotel or resort to make the most of their time away.
“People don’t necessarily want to wait until the middle of winter to get away,” adds Gianni. “September through to December gives travellers lots of opportunities to find sunshine, whether they want a last-minute taste of summer, a half-term break or somewhere warm to spend the weeks leading up to Christmas.
“The earlier people start looking, the more choice they’ll have, particularly for popular dates around October half term and Christmas.”
