Choosing a Greek island to visit in the autumn is a great idea, as you’re likely to enjoy warm sunshine and fewer crowds. One particularly lovely choice during this time is Rhodes. While its medieval Old Town bustles with tourists in July and August, visiting in the autumn means you can leisurely explore its narrow alleys, peaceful squares, and Ottoman mansions without the throngs of people. September is an especially good time to check out Petaloudes, also known as Butterfly Valley. Out of season, you can enjoy this lush green valley almost tourist-free, making it an ideal time to see the numerous brightly colored butterflies.
In Sardinia, autumn offers a delightful experience through the Autunno in Barbagia, a series of festivals that take place from September to December in 27 villages across the beautiful, mountainous Barbagia region. The streets transform into lively markets and workshops, and locals open their homes to visitors. You can also partake in organized walks through the mountains. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can simply enjoy the near-empty beaches and the pleasant sun.
Dubrovnik shines in autumn as well. Known for being a crowded tourist destination during summer, it becomes much more enjoyable in the cooler months. The weather is less humid, and the atmosphere is calmer and more laid-back. The sea remains warm enough for swimming, and you’ll find lower prices for ferries and accommodations, making it a great time to visit.
Due to its southern location, Cyprus enjoys a long and warm autumn with temperatures soaring into the 30s. Many village houses have been converted into charming cottages and inns, often nestled in remote, rural areas ideal for exploring on foot during the cooler autumn days. A refreshing swim in the sea, still wonderfully warm, is a perfect way to wrap up a day of adventures.
Lanzarote, located about 70 km from Western Sahara, offers a more desert-like climate compared to the Mediterranean. Autumn is the best time to visit as the northeasterly trade winds, which blow from March to August, decrease significantly. The tourist crowds dwindle, and the sea, warmed by the summer sun, is at its most inviting. It’s an ideal time to embark on hikes and explore the island’s volcanic peaks, with Timanfaya National Park, also known as Fire Mountain, being a standout destination for such activities.