Top 10 Hotspots for Late Summer Sun

1. Algarve, Portugal

Only a few hours from home, the Algarve in Portugal has long been a go-to for some last-minute sun worshipping. The reliably sunny climate is just right for shorts and tees without being as overbearing as it can be in the height of summer, plus the region's bars and restaurants remain open throughout the late season, unlike many resorts in the rest of Europe. Result!

September is a great month for laidback escapes in the likes of Monte Gordo or Alvor, while October is still warm enough for half-term family fun in Albufeira or Lagos.

2. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Floating off the west coast of Africa, the scorching summers in volcanic Gran Canaria can last well into November – the Canary Islands are known for their balmy year-round sunshine, after all! With temps lingering in the mid to high 20s, beach breaks are still on the cards here – sea swims included.

Puerto Rico and Playa del Ingles are two of the most popular seaside resorts, and it’s not hard to see why with huge swathes of sand, beachfront cafes and watersports aplenty.

3. Cyprus

Affectionately nicknamed the ‘island of eternal spring’, Cyprus is a reliable European destination for catching some late summer rays. Daytime temperatures rarely dip lower than 19C and the late summer months aren't strangers to a heatwave or two!

Resorts range from party town Ayia Napa to family-favourite Protaras and crowd-pleaser Paphos.

Make the most of the fab weather in September and October by getting stuck into outdoor activities such as hikes into the epic Troodos Mountains.

4. Rhodes, Greece

The quaint cobbled streets of Rhodes’s old town are so packed with tourists in peak summer that it can be hard to see the charm of this Greek gem. As the crowds filter away by late September, however, the island returns to its unspoilt, idyllic glory – that’s your cue to enjoy some sunny sightseeing!

Step back in time in the medieval streets of Rhodes Town, snap a pic of Lindos’s stunning cliff top acropolis, and gaze in awe at the Venetian Grand Master Palace.

5. Southern Spain

Clinging on to the last of the good weather, Spain’s south coast keeps the sun shining all the way into October. The resorts may be quieter, but if you’re happy with beautiful beaches, swell local restaurants and balmy days still hitting the mid-twenties – and who wouldn’t be? – it’s a super-duper choice.

Stick to the coast in the Costa del Sol in resorts such as Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Torremolinos, where there’s still heaps going on, or make the most of the cooler climate and head inland to cities like Granada or Cordoba.

6. Ibiza, Balearic Islands, Spain

While many holiday resorts wind down gently at the end of the summer season, Ibiza goes out with a bang. Each year its legendary super clubs throw incredible closing parties in an epic summer send off that lasts until late September.

After that, the clubbers leave and Ibiza largely returns to its peaceful off-season state, where low-key evening drinks and hippy markets are the order of the day.

Temperatures in October typically hover around 22C, so lazy afternoons lounging on the island’s paradisiacal beaches are still on the cards too.

7. Olu Deniz, Turkey

Forget your umbrellas and cardigans – even as Turkey edges into autumn, temperatures manage to hold average October highs of 26C! Plus, with eight glorious hours of sunshine a day, and Insta-famous sunbathing spots like the iconic Blue Lagoon, Olu Deniz is is the place to be for catching some late rays.

If you can peel yourself off your sun-lounger (good luck), the autumn weather is also perfect for exploring the region’s stunning national parks and taking day trips to nearby towns such as Fethiye.

8. Malta

With a culture-packed capital and sun-kissed beaches, Malta combines city and sand like a pro.

Spend your mornings meandering through Valletta’s tiny streets, far less crowded come September, then kick back on a beach in the afternoon. There are sandy stretches close to the capital at St Julian’s, but on an island so small, you’re never far from something spectacular.

Up for an adventure? Sister island Gozo is made for exploring or join a Blue Lagoon boat tour near Comino. The sea has had all summer to warm up and you’ll want to dive right in. Trust us.

9. Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco in peak summer is too hot for most but autumn’s milder temps (expect low to mid 20s) mean a Marrakech city break is high on the bucket list. Barter for souvenirs in the colourful souks, treat yourself to relaxing steam baths and spa treatments at a traditional Moroccan hammam, and delve into the city’s vibrant culture under the warm Moroccan sun.

For a retreat from Marrakech’s bustle, splash out on a lush riad in the medina – these boutique stays usually come with their own pool – or look to the Palmeraie area a little further out for all-inclusive resorts with all the trimmings.

10. Venice, Italy

Venice’s fame means it doesn’t really have an off-season, but visit in peak summer and you’re almost certain to be following a flock of fellow tourists from sight to sight. So, let the crowds thin out slightly and the weather drop a few degrees and go in late September instead – you might just discover what makes this city so adored!

The guaranteed way to find its charms? Set an early alarm to see its most popular attractions before the city wakes up, then ditch the map and get lost along the canals letting your inner explorer guide the way.

If you're up for a mini adventure, take the vaporetto water bus to Lido di Venezia island, where some 10km of sand is lined with beach bars and sun-loungers. It’s the best of both worlds.