Things to do in Valencia in September: quiet beaches, the grape harvest and the new season

September is Valencia's best-kept secret. The heat eases, the sea is warmer than at any other time of the year, the beach empties after the holidays and the city gets back into its stride: concerts, afternoon sessions and terraces full of people catching up return.

This guide covers what to do in Valencia in September, which day trips to make the most of and, at the end, Palau Alameda's agenda for the month, which updates automatically.

The essentials in 30 seconds

• Weather: highs of 27-29 °C and the sea still at 25 °C.
• Beach: no crowds, the best of the year for many.
• Day trips: the grape harvest in Utiel-Requena and the rice harvest in the Albufera.
• Back in action: concerts, afternoon sessions and afterwork return.
• Season: autumn begins at the end of the month.

The weather in September

September keeps the summer without its excesses: highs of 27-29 °C, cooler nights and the sea still at about 25 °C. Towards the end of the month the first heavy autumn rains may arrive, so it is worth checking the forecast.

The beach without the crowds

With the holidays over, the beaches of Malva-rosa, El Cabanyal and La Patacona have space again. The water is warmer than in June and the afternoon light is softer: it is the ideal month for a swim at the end of the day.

The grape harvest in Utiel-Requena

September is harvest month in the Utiel-Requena designation of origin, just over an hour from Valencia, home of the bobal grape. Many wineries organise visits and tastings during these weeks.

The rice harvest in the Albufera

In September the Albufera's rice fields, a green sea in summer, turn golden and the harvest begins. A walk through the fields and a rice dish in El Palmar is one of the most Valencian plans of the month. If you would rather stay in the city, here is where to have paella for dinner in Valencia.

The agenda returns

September is the start of Valencia's nightlife season. Concert series, afternoon sessions and afterwork return, and terraces fill with people coming back. At Palau Alameda, the month's programme is in the agenda at the end of this article; you can also see afternoon sessions in Valencia, afterwork at Àtic and the concert agenda.

Terraces at sunset

In September the sun already sets between 20:00 and 20:30, just after work: perfect for a drink with a view. On Paseo de la Alameda, Àtic, Palau Alameda's rooftop terrace, is a good place to watch it. If you are here early in the month, see things to do in Valencia in August; and for what comes next, Valencia in autumn.

Tips for September

• Enjoy the beach on weekdays: it is almost empty.
• Book winery visits in advance during the harvest.
• Check the forecast at the end of the month for autumn rain.
• Buy tickets early for the first concerts of the season.

Frequently asked questions

What is the weather like in Valencia in September?

Still summery: highs of 27-29 °C, cooler nights and the sea at about 25 °C. The first heavy autumn rains may arrive at the end of the month.

Can you go to the beach in Valencia in September?

Yes, and it is one of the best times: the water is warmer than in June and the beaches are much quieter than in August.

When is the grape harvest in Utiel-Requena?

Mainly in September, although it can stretch into October depending on the year and the variety. Many wineries in the area organise visits and tastings.

When is the rice harvested in the Albufera?

Between September and early October, when the rice fields turn golden. It is a good time to walk through the fields and have a rice dish in El Palmar.

What is there to do in Valencia in September at night?

It is the start of the season: concerts, afternoon sessions and afterwork return, and terraces fill up. At Palau Alameda, the month's agenda is at the end of this article.

What is on at Palau Alameda in September?

September's agenda is at the end of this article and updates automatically, with concerts, afternoon sessions and nights. Àtic opens its terrace for lunch, dinner and afterwork.