As summer’s crowds fade and autumn’s golden light begins to spread, the world reveals a different kind of magic. September, October and November bring gentler temperatures, quieter streets, and the chance to savour each destination at your own pace.
Glide across Greece’s sun-dappled seas, wander Morocco’s spice-scented souks, spot wildlife in Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes, or sip world-class wines in Argentina’s rolling vineyards.
Shoulder season is the sweet spot between peak and off-season — perfect for adventure, relaxation, and moments you’ll never forget.
We’ve gathered our favourite escapes to inspire your next journey.
SAILING IN GREECE
Shoulder season in Greece is so good, it always gets booked up first! Luckily for you, Aurous catamaran is now taking bookings for both ‘shoulders’ for 2026.
The cooler ‘shoulder’ seasons of May, June, September and October are less hot, but no less beautiful.
If you are able to avoid the school holidays we certainly recommend it. In June the sea is at its bluest and in September the sea is at its warmest…so take your pick!
If you are tied to school holidays but prefer the cooler temperatures, May or October half term are the weeks for you.
SPA & WELLNESS: ABANO TERME
For me, autumn is the perfect time for a spa break. It’s that sweet spot between the busy summer months and the rush of the festive season — a chance to slow down, reset, and really nourish myself. The cooler weather makes warm thermal pools, steam rooms, and cosy relaxation lounges even more inviting,
That’s why Abano Terme in Italy is my dream escape at this time of year — mornings spent soaking in mineral-rich thermal waters and enjoying rejuvenating treatments, then leisurely afternoons wandering through Venice, Verona, or Padua without the summer crowds. And with full board included, I can indulge in delicious Italian cuisine all day long, making it the ultimate blend of wellness, culture, and comfort.
SRI LANKA
While July and August can be quite busy with families enjoying the summer holidays, by September Sri Lanka feels wonderfully calm and unhurried. Flight prices drop, and the east coast beaches remain blissfully sunny, offering the perfect setting for long, peaceful days by the sea.
It’s an ideal month to explore the island’s rich heritage, from the ancient cities of the Cultural Triangle to the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya. Adventurous travellers can also hike through the misty hill country, wandering tea plantations and enjoying cooler temperatures, all before the October monsoon rolls in.
With fewer crowds, lower prices, and a gentler pace, September provides a chance to experience Sri Lanka at its most authentic, balancing relaxation, culture, and adventure in one unforgettable trip.
MOROCCO
Autumn is a wonderful time to explore Morocco. The summer heat has eased, making September to November ideal for uncovering the country’s rich culture and diverse landscapes.
Head north to discover the blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen, cosmopolitan Tangier, and the ancient medina of Fes – best months to plan a visit. Alternatively, journey south for golden light across the Sahara, peaceful desert camps, and the cinematic beauty of kasbahs and palm-filled valleys.
Fewer crowds, better weather, and a more authentic pace – Morocco truly comes into its own in shoulder season.
JORDAN
Autumn is the perfect time to experience the magic of Jordan. With warm days and fewer crowds, you can explore Petra’s rose-red wonders, sleep under the stars in Wadi Rum, and float in the Dead Sea in peace and comfort. Landscapes are at their most inviting, and local life feels wonderfully relaxed.
Whether you’re hiking in Dana or soaking up the buzz of Amman, Jordan in shoulder season offers history, beauty, and adventure without the heat or hassle. Even better – Royal Air Jordanian is currently offering special deals on package holidays, making it the ideal time to book.
ARGENTINA
Travelling to Argentina in shoulder season, during March–May or September–November, offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Buenos Aires’ vibrant streets are lively yet manageable, while the wine regions of Mendoza are at their most scenic, with harvest colours in autumn or blossoms in spring.
Patagonia’s dramatic landscapes—towering mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes—are easier to explore without peak-season tourists, and wildlife in the Valdés Peninsula or Iguazú Falls is more visible and relaxed. Temperatures are milder across the country, making hiking, sightseeing, and city adventures far more enjoyable. Shoulder season combines comfort, culture, and natural beauty for a truly unforgettable Argentine journey.
BRAZIL
Visiting Brazil in shoulder season, typically March–May or September–November, is an ideal way to enjoy the country without the summer crowds.
Rio de Janeiro’s beaches are inviting, yet less packed, and the iconic sights like Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain can be savoured at a calmer pace.
The Amazon and Pantanal are perfect for wildlife spotting, with comfortable temperatures and easier river navigation. Iguazú Falls is spectacular, with fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.
With pleasant weather, vibrant culture, and easier travel logistics, shoulder season lets you experience Brazil’s stunning landscapes, lively cities, and rich biodiversity in comfort.
CHILE
Travelling to Chile in shoulder season, during March–May or September–November, offers a more relaxed and comfortable experience across its diverse landscapes. In the north, the Atacama Desert is cooler, making exploration of salt flats, geysers, and lunar landscapes far more enjoyable.
Patagonia’s dramatic mountains, glaciers, and fjords are accessible with fewer tourists, and trekking through Torres del Paine is a quieter, more peaceful experience. Santiago and the wine regions of the Central Valley are pleasant, with milder temperatures and colourful scenery.
Shoulder season provides the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, allowing travellers to truly savour Chile at a gentler pace.
Written by Val Garibotti
Top Travel Tip
“Travel is about discovery and digging under the surface of a country. Take your time, go off the beaten track and plan ahead if you can.”
– Valeria Garibotti – Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador & Galapagos, and Uruguay expert
