Travel between seasons is increasingly popular as holidaymakers seek to avoid extreme heat and peak summer crowds. This 'shoulder season'—the period between peak and off-season—is seeing heightened demand for Spain, Italy, Portugal, and France in September and October, according to travel agencies and booking sites. While much has been written about European cities in autumn, islands offer a unique appeal. Here are the top picks for 'second summer' sunshine, plus one where rain is likely but the atmosphere compensates.
Crete: Greece's Aegean Jewel
Crete, one of Greece's 6,000 islands, is famed for its dazzling water and exceptional beaches, with Elafonissi Beach recently named the best in Europe. Beyond sunbathing, Greece's largest island offers hiking trails, excellent cuisine, vineyards, ancient monasteries, and charming stone towns. The shoulder season provides balmy temperatures and fewer visitors. Must-sees include Preveli Monastery for stunning views, Toplou Monastery for wine tasting, and the Samaria Gorge for a memorable trek. Crete is also more affordable than many Greek islands, with direct flights from London costing as little as £75 return in late September.
Pantelleria: Sicily's Volcanic Beauty
Closer to Tunisia than mainland Italy, Pantelleria features brooding black cliffs, turquoise bays, and emerald coves. Early autumn is ideal as heat mellows, crowds depart, and harvest begins. Homer called it the 'navel of the Mediterranean'. It boasts spectacular sunsets and views of North Africa on clear days. Visitors can taste acclaimed wine at Donnafugata, relax in natural springs at Gadir, or take a speedboat to explore the rugged coast.
The Aran Islands: Ireland's Rugged Escape
Located off Ireland's wild western coast, the Aran Islands are not for sunseekers, but visitors come for the serene atmosphere, limestone landscapes, stone walls, blue flag beaches, and dramatic cliffs. Home to around 1,200 people who speak Irish and English, the islands offer surfing, cycling, and traditional pub sessions with fiddle or whistle music. Ferries run from Galway City or Doolin Harbour. Late October visits coincide with Samhain, the ancient Celtic harvest festival, and the Púca Festival on the mainland features music, myth, and fire shows.
Lefkada: The 'Greek Caribbean'
Lefkada, in the Ionian, is known for its iridescent ocean and stunning beaches like Porto Katsiki and Milos, which rank in Lonely Planet's top 10. It remains under the radar for British tourists, with beaches like Kathisma and Egremini nearly empty in shoulder season. The water stays warm, and tavernas serve dishes like saganaki, calamari, and grilled octopus for as little as €16 per head. It's the only Greek island reachable by car, via a causeway from Preveza airport, served by budget airlines from April to October. In winter, fly to Athens and take a €40 bus (4-5 hours).
Madeira: The Hawaii of Europe
Madeira offers majestic mountains, forest trails, and natural pools. Autumn is arguably the best time to visit, with temperatures between 20°C and 24°C, swimmable ocean, and lush landscapes in vibrant colors. Local delicacies like custard apples, passionfruit, and chestnuts are in season, and summer crowds have dispersed. By October, direct return flights from London with easyJet are £124.
