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'Shoulder season' is the name given to the quieter travel periods before and after the summer rush

After a summer of scorching temperatures and overcrowded hotspots across Europe, it's no surprise that British travellers are looking beyond peak season for their next sunny break.

September and October can be a great time to getaway, with warm weather, fewer crowds and better value for money.

Travel platform Omio has put together a Shoulder Season Index score to help holidaymakers find the best autumn escapes. Each destination is scored out of 100 based on typical temperatures in September and October, and how quickly tourist numbers fall after the summer rush.

According to the data, eight top-ranked spots can be reached directly from London in less than four hours, with visitor numbers dropping by as much as 80 per cent compared to the peak months. Prices start from just £17 from London, and are correct as of September 10, 2026.

Split, Croatia (Index Score: 89/100)

Croatia's coastal gem took the top spot, with average temperatures of 24°C in September and 20°C in October. Tourist numbers drop by up to 80 per cent after the summer peak, making it a great time to wander the historic streets and explore the Dalmatian coastline.
Direct flights from London to Split take around 2 hours 25 minutes, with fares starting from £25 via Omio.

Bari, Italy (Index Score: 84/100)

This southern Italian city holds onto its summer warmth into shoulder season, with typical highs of 25°C in September and 21°C in October. Local overnight stays fall by roughly 66 per cent, too, so you can enjoy Puglia's old town charm in a much more relaxed way.

Direct flights from London to Bari take around 2 hours 45 minutes, with fares starting from £27.

Bologna, Italy (Index Score: 81/100)

Temperatures of around 25°C in September and 19°C in October make Bologna ideal for exploring on foot, and a 66 per cent drop in regional tourist numbers means its celebrated markets, porticoes and trattorias are far less hectic.

Direct flights from London to Bologna take around two hours, with fares starting from £17 via Omio.

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Corfu, Greece (Index Score: 79/100)

If you're not ready to let go of island life just yet, Corfu is a top choice. It averages temperatures of 24°C in September and 21°C in October, and visitor numbers dip by around 54 per cent, giving you quieter beaches and a more laid-back vibe.

Direct flights from London to Corfu take around three hours, with fares starting from £47.

Salzburg, Austria (Index Score: 77/100)

Want to swap the heat for something cooler? Salzburg averages 19°C in September and 15°C in October, with regional tourism falling by about 56 per cent. It's a good time to take in the historic city before venturing into the surrounding alpine scenery.

Direct flights from London to Salzburg take around two hours, with fares starting from £36 via Omio.

Ljubljana, Slovenia (Index Score: 75/100)

Slovenia's small capital enjoys comfortable temperatures of 20°C in September and 15°C in October, while national visitor numbers drop by roughly 53 per cent. It's an easy base for pairing a city break with a trip to the scenic Lake Bled.

Direct flights from London to Ljubljana take around 2 hours 15 minutes, with fares starting from £23.

Granada, Spain (Index Score: 73/100)

Once the hot Andalusian summer eases off, Granada becomes far more enjoyable. It cools from 27°C in September to around 22°C in October. Tourism across the region drops by approximately 43 per cent, making autumn a cracking time to visit.

Direct flights from London to Granada take around 2 hours 55 minutes, with fares starting from £27.

Valencia, Spain (Index Score: 72/100)

For those chasing warmth, Valencia is hard to beat, averaging 27°C in September and 23°C in October. Regional overnight stays fall by around 40 per cent, so you can enjoy the Mediterranean coast without the summer squeeze.

Direct flights from London to Valencia take around 2 hours 20 minutes, with fares starting from £30.