Thomas Cook : guide to the best of late summer sun

Thomas Cook's guide to the best of late summer sun

September 04, 2019

With the nights already drawing in and weather reports even suggesting frost, a late summer getaway to a destination where it is still sunny and warm is the ideal alternative to switching the heating on at home.

Will Waggott, Chief of Tour Operating at Thomas Cook said: 'September and October are ideal months for a balmy late summer break when the schools have gone back and airports and resorts are less crowded. There are some great deals in popular hotspots across Southern Europe and beyond for these shoulder months, and whether you prefer a shorter flight or want to fly a little further for a few degrees more, the weather is guaranteed to be better than it is back home.'

Here are our top five picks:

Ibiza

September and October are still hot and sunny by day and lively by night as these are the months when the famous nightclubs hold their closing parties. Whether you want to check out the clubbing scene, or prefer a more peaceful stay surrounded by scenic countryside, sandy bays and sheltered coves, Ibiza is a great choice for any length of break thanks to the short flying time.

September average 28C / October average 24C

Seven nights at the four star Casa Cook Ibiza in Cala Gracio from £578 per person.

Departing from London Gatwick on 7 October and staying on a bed and breakfast basis

www.thomascook.com, call 0844 412 5970 or visit the nearest Thomas Cook store

Crete

Crete is one of the warmest Greek islands in September and October, which is still a popular time for tourists as peak season crowds have cleared and the sun still sparkles on the whitewashed walls. As the largest of all the Greek islands, there is still plenty to do here in late summer when others may have already closed for the season. Those seeking culture will find the temperature more pleasant when visiting achaeological sites like Knossos or fascinating Spinalonga Island than the blistering heat of July or August. This is the the last opporutnity for hiking in the famous Samaria Gorge until next May which closes to the public at the end of October.

September average 27C / October average 24C

Seven nights at the four star SENTIDO Elounda Blu from £538 per person.

Departing from London Luton on 9 October and staying on a half board basis

www.thomascook.com, call 0844 412 5970 or visit the nearest Thomas Cook store

Cyprus

As the third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is short on neither history nor hospitality. It has been inhabited for over 12,000 years, so has a wealth of ancient sites that shimmer gloriously in late summer sunshine. Paphos in particular remains hot in September and October. For cooler climes it's worth a visit to the countryside of the Troodos Mountains to explore tiny villages, see how the locals live and swim in fresh water lakes.

September average 30C / October average 27C

Seven nights at three star smartline Paphos from £588 per person.

Departing from Manchester on 2 October and staying on an all-inclusive basis

www.thomascook.com, call 0844 412 5970 or visit the nearest Thomas Cook store

Turkey

While October sees temperatures begin to cool as the summer season draws to a close, Antalya is still much warmer than most parts of northern Europe in October and remains our second most popular package holiday destination. Turkey's rise up the ranks is down to the great value for money offered by its quality five star resorts, golden beaches, tasty local food and strong exchange rate.

September average 31C / October average 26C

Seven nights at the five star Sunprime Numa Beach in Alanya from £481 per person.

Departing from Manchester on 16 October and staying on an all-inclusive basis

www.thomascook.com, call 0844 412 5970 or visit the nearest Thomas Cook store

Egypt

Egypt's Red Sea is well worth the slightly longer flying time of just over five hours if you're seeking weather a few degrees warmer under the strong African sun. El Gouna is the perfect location for relaxing or for the more adventurous with kite surfing, snorkeling and venturing into the red-sand desert to visit Bedouins coming highly recommended.

September average 35C / October average 32C

Seven nights at the four star Cook's Club El Gouna (adult only) from £713 per person.

Departing from London Gatwick on 19 September and staying on a half board basis

www.thomascook.com, call 0844 412 5970 or visit the nearest Thomas Cook store

Prices are based on two adults sharing, including 15kg luggage and resort transfers. Thomas Cook Tour Operations terms and conditions apply.

Note: Temperatures are September and October averages from the Met Office