Things to Do in Germany in September
September weather, activities, events & insider tips
September Weather in Germany
Is September Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect autumn weather - comfortable 15-20°C (59-68°F) days ideal for walking city centers and hiking without summer heat exhaustion
- Oktoberfest peak season - Munich's legendary beer festival runs until early October with perfect drinking weather and full festival atmosphere
- Fall foliage season - Rhine Valley, Black Forest, and Bavarian Alps showcase spectacular red and gold colors, peaking mid-to-late September
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs drop 25-40% from August highs while weather remains excellent for sightseeing
Considerations
- Unpredictable rain patterns - sudden downpours can disrupt outdoor plans, with 10 rainy days averaging 30-45 minute showers
- Shorter daylight hours - sunsets by 7:30pm limit evening outdoor activities compared to summer months
- Oktoberfest crowds in Bavaria - Munich and surrounding areas experience peak tourism with inflated prices and packed attractions
Best Activities in September
Rhine Valley Wine Harvest Tours
September is harvest season along the Rhine - vineyards bustle with activity and offer fresh Federweißer (partially fermented wine) tastings. Cool 18°C (64°F) temperatures perfect for cycling between wineries. Spectacular fall colors reflect in the river creating postcard scenery.
Neuschwanstein Castle Hiking Tours
September offers ideal conditions for the 1.5km (0.9 mile) uphill walk to Bavaria's fairy-tale castle. Cool morning temperatures around 12°C (54°F) make the 45-minute climb comfortable. Fall foliage frames the castle perfectly, and fewer August crowds mean better photo opportunities.
Black Forest Wellness Retreats
September's cool, humid air enhances the forest's therapeutic atmosphere. Traditional spas utilize autumn herbs and local thermal springs. Perfect weather for forest bathing (Waldbaden) - temperatures around 16°C (61°F) ideal for mindful hiking through evergreen forests.
Berlin Historical Walking Tours
September's comfortable 18°C (64°F) temperatures make 3-4 hour walking tours through Berlin's historical sites pleasant. Crisp air provides excellent visibility for viewing architectural details. Rain typically comes in short bursts, allowing flexible indoor museum stops at Brandenburg Gate area.
Romantic Road Cycling Adventures
The 350km (217-mile) route from Würzburg to Füssen offers perfect September cycling weather. Cool mornings around 10°C (50°F) warm to pleasant 19°C (66°F) afternoons. Medieval towns showcase autumn markets and seasonal foods. Well-maintained bike paths avoid heavy traffic.
Christmas Market Preview Tours
Late September sees early Christmas markets opening in major cities. Dresden's Striezelmarkt preparation offers behind-the-scenes glimpses of Germany's oldest Christmas market. Cool weather creates perfect atmosphere for testing seasonal treats and warm Glühwein in outdoor settings.
September Events & Festivals
Oktoberfest Munich
The world's largest beer festival runs through early October. September offers the best weather and atmosphere with traditional music, authentic Bavarian food, and fresh beer in massive beer halls. Six million visitors but manageable crowds on weekdays.
Weinlesefest (Wine Harvest Festivals)
Throughout Rhine Valley and Mosel regions, traditional wine harvest celebrations feature fresh grape juice, local specialties, and folk music. Each village hosts weekend festivals with wine tastings and seasonal foods.
Long Night of Museums
Major cities including Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg host special museum nights with extended hours and special exhibitions. Single ticket grants access to 50+ participating museums until 2am.