Jen Thomas
If you're not ready to say goodbye to summer just yet, it's not too late to book a last-minute escape with sunshine, sizzling temperatures and good times with friends.
Even though fall is beginning to set in, there are some gorgeous destinations across the pond that still boast temperatures of up to 79F (26C) in September - and overnight stays from as little as $20.
Our top pick? The capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, a stunning coastal city that's the perfect place to top up your tan or take some time out before returning to work or study without breaking the bank.
There are stunning boutique hostels offering stays from just $20 a night, so whether you want to book a last-minute solo trip and make some new friends, or if you want to go as a group, there's something for everyone here.
The city in question? Barcelona, of course.
Read on for our pick of the best deals at European destinations this fall.
The Spanish metropolis is home to Onefam Les Corts, rated 9.5/10 and 'superb' by other visitors. There's a 24 hour reception, no curfew or lockout, and it promises that 'we will cook you dinner, take you on daytime adventures, and share our expert knowledge of the city,' and it's ideal for getting to know more about Barcelona. Previous guests loved the warm welcome and the advice they received about the city, plus plenty of recommendations. Prices start from $20.59 a night.
Whether you want to go sightseeing to the likes of the iconic Sagrada Família church, check out some modern art at Museu Picasso and Fundació Joan Miró, soak up the sun at a street cafe or dance the night away at the likes of Pasha, Opium, Shoko, Carpe Diem and Catwalk, there's something for everyone.
History and cheap beer, what's not to love about Berlin? It has an incredible music scene, and if you've always wondered whether you'd make it past the bouncers at Berghain, now's your chance. The EastSeven Berlin Hostel has had nearly 9,000 reviews, rating it 9.7/10. Single sex dorms are $89 a night. One reviewer said: "Best hostel ever. The staff are amazing, the location is close to public transport, shops and cafes."
Food and drinks are very, very cheap in Budapest. Combine that with stunning scenery and incredible thermal spas to relax and unwind in, this is a highly recommended bargain break.
Top rated is the Loft Hostel Budapest, scored an impressive 9.8/10. Perfect if you like smaller, cosier locations and want to make friends, one previous guest says: "Best hostel so far in Europe I think in terms of how social it is and super chill. Felt more like an air bnb just shared with cool strangers." A seven-bed mixed dorm is around $30 a night.
September is still in season for Ibiza, so there'll be plenty to see and do still. While it's definitely not the cheapest for drinks, you can cut back on costs and still have fun by booking the likes of Hostal Flamingo by Nest. It's been rated fabulous and 8.0/10, with guests loving the location, just 300m from the beach. Perfect for sunbathing in the day before hitting the clubs at sundown. A room in a dorm starts from $90.
Hire a bike and cycle out to a cheese and clog factory, check out the Heineken museum, or admire the floating flower market. There's more to Amsterdam than meets the eye and it's much more than the clichés. try the poffertjes, delicious tiny traditional pancakes. Stayokay Amsterdam Stadsdoelen is rated 9.3/10 and is perfectly centrally located, with everything you could want in walking distance. A room in a mixed dorm starts at $62 a night.
Soak up some sunshine and culture (and incredible food) in the city of love. Whether you want to go as a couple, solo, or with a group of friends there's so much to see and do in Paris. You can also jump on the RER for a day at Disneyland Paris too if you fancy some fun. If you're after boutique style on a budget, check out the Plug Inn Montmartre by Hiphophostels. It's just around the corner from the iconic Moulin Rouge, and just three minutes’ walk from Sacré Coeur. A mixed dorm with en-suite starts at $67 per night.