Best September Getaways for Empty Nesters Driving to France, Spain, and Portugal

September is the ideal month for empty nesters from the UK seeking peaceful September getaways by car. Whether you’re planning a scenic driving holiday through France, Spain, or Portugal, this time of year offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful destinations perfect for a relaxing road trip. With quieter roads and pleasant temperatures, September is the perfect season for a memorable UK to mainland Europe driving holiday.

 

Why September is the Best Month for Empty Nester Driving Holidays in Europe

With children back at school, empty nesters can enjoy stress-free travel and avoid the busy summer peak. September’s mild climate and local festivals make it a great time for cultural experiences. Plus, driving through France, Spain, and Portugal is easier thanks to less traffic and smoother journeys on toll roads, especially when using the Emovis Tag for hassle-free toll payments.

 

Top September Getaways for Empty Nesters Driving in France

1. Dordogne and the Perigord Region: Countryside and Wine Tours

Explore rolling countryside, medieval castles, and world-renowned cuisine. September is harvest season, perfect for vineyard tours and tasting local wines.

2. Provence: Historic Towns and Market Culture

Though lavender season ends by July, Provence offers stunning landscapes and vibrant markets in Aix-en-Provence and Avignon throughout September.

3. The French Riviera: Mediterranean Coast with Fewer Crowds

Enjoy warm weather and fewer tourists in Nice, Cannes, and Antibes. September hosts art and food festivals that bring local culture to life.

 

Best September Destinations for UK Drivers in Spain

1. Andalusia: Moorish History and Flamenco in Seville, Granada, and Córdoba

Experience rich heritage, lively festivals, and pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing.

2. Costa Brava: Rugged Coastlines and Charming Fishing Villages

Drive along scenic routes with opportunities for swimming, hiking, and exploring quieter beaches.

3. Salamanca: Historic City Break with Cultural Riches

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage city’s beautiful architecture and lively plazas in a peaceful September setting.

 

Portugal September Road Trips for Empty Nesters

1. The Algarve: Warm Beaches and Quaint Coastal Towns

September is one of the best months to visit with warm seas, fewer crowds, and charming towns like Lagos and Tavira.

2. Douro Valley: Wine Country and Scenic Drives

Enjoy vineyard tours and riverside dining during the grape harvest season in this stunning wine region.

3. Lisbon and Surrounding Areas: Culture and Day Trips

Explore Portugal’s capital and nearby gems like Sintra and Cascais, benefiting from mild weather and less tourist traffic.

 

Tips for September Driving Holidays in France, Spain, and Portugal

• Use an Electronic Toll Tag: An Emovis Tag offers seamless toll payments on French, Spanish, and Portuguese motorways, saving time and avoiding queues.
• Plan Scenic Routes: Take advantage of quieter roads to explore lesser-known towns and scenic detours.
• Book Accommodations Early: September is quieter but local events can fill popular destinations quickly.

 

Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Relaxed September Road Trip

September is the perfect time for empty nesters to take a driving holiday from the UK to France, Spain, or Portugal. From wine tasting in Dordogne and Douro Valley to historic city breaks and coastal relaxation, this season combines mild weather, fewer tourists, and authentic experiences. Prepare your car, pack your Emovis Tag for easy toll payments, and enjoy a smooth, scenic road trip. Order your toll tag today.