November is a fantastic time to travel, offering a sweet spot between the summer crowds and the peak holiday season rush. The fall light is often beautiful, skies are clear, making it ideal for photographers and travelers seeking pleasant weather and fewer tourists. If you’re wondering where to travel in November, look no further. We’ve curated a list of top destinations perfect for your fall escape.
Europe in November: Shoulder Season Charm
Northern Italy: Truffle Season and Wine Delights
view of Canelli, a town in the Piedmont region of Italy with greenery, old buildings and blue skies
Explore Canelli in Piedmont, Italy, during November for picturesque landscapes and truffle season.
Piedmont in Northern Italy beckons in November with the intoxicating aroma of white truffles. It’s truffle season, and the White Truffle Fair in Alba is a month-long celebration of this culinary treasure. Indulge in truffle hunting experiences, savor robust Barolo wines, and witness the artistry of local cheese makers. For active travelers, cycle through vineyard-draped hills (electric bikes available for ease!) or hike under crisp, blue skies. Consider a family Thanksgiving villa getaway to fully immerse yourselves in the region’s charm during harvest time for olives and wine. Learn the art of al fresco cooking in scenic settings like olive groves, goat cheese farms, or vineyards.
Provence, France: Autumnal Beauty and Truffle Hunts
the hilltop village of Gordes, Provence, France
Discover the enchanting hilltop villages of Provence, France, like Gordes, best visited during the shoulder season in November.
Provence, with its postcard-perfect villages, is undeniably popular. Visiting in November offers a more tranquil experience, away from the summer throngs. The region’s winter light, which drew famous artists, still shines in November, making al fresco lunches a delightful possibility. Provencal markets are vibrant with fall produce, and truffle hunting season kicks off this month. Hike amidst the stunning autumn colors and charming hilltop villages of the Luberon, or cycle through the vineyards of Gigondas and Vacqueyras, enjoying peaceful routes and excellent local eateries.
Andalusia, Spain: Cultural Immersion Without the Crowds
Skyline in the Old Quarter of Seville, Spain
Experience the authentic culture of Seville, Spain, in November, with fewer tourists and pleasant weather.
Andalusia in Southern Spain offers a rich cultural experience, which is often overshadowed by summer tourist crowds. November provides a welcome respite, allowing for genuine interactions with locals and more space to appreciate UNESCO World Heritage sites. The weather remains pleasant, with daytime temperatures hovering around a comfortable 70 degrees Fahrenheit, ideal for exploring Seville and beyond.
Portugal: Mild Weather and River Cruises
Beautiful nature view on Azores with small villages, tows, green nature fields. Amazing Azores. View of typical Azores village in Sao Miguel island, Azores, Portugal.
Explore the Azores, Portugal, in November for stunning nature, charming villages, and outdoor activities in mild weather.
Portugal maintains mild temperatures well into November, perfect for outdoor dining without needing heat lamps until late in the month. Enjoy private river boat tours along the Douro River, a far superior sightseeing experience compared to typical river cruises, which operate through November. For even warmer weather, consider Madeira and the Azores islands. Madeira is renowned for hiking, while the Azores offer hiking, biking, and off-roading opportunities around beautiful lagoons.
Greece: Island Escapes to Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes
Corfu town, Greece, remains lively through November and winter, offering cultural and culinary experiences.
Corfu town, Greece, remains lively through November and winter, offering cultural and culinary experiences.
While many Greek islands wind down in late October or early November, Crete, Corfu, and Rhodes remain vibrant year-round. These islands offer authentic cultural and culinary experiences, with local festivities continuing into the winter months. November is an excellent time to visit sheep farms, olive groves, and witness the wine harvest.
Sicily: Culture and Outdoor Adventures
Aquamarine blue waters of sea near Taormina resorts and Etna volcano mount. Giardini-Naxos bay, Ionian sea coast, Taormina, Sicily, Italy.
Hike Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy, during the pleasant fall weather in November, combining culture with outdoor beauty.
Sicily shines in the fall for those seeking a blend of culture and outdoor beauty. Autumn brings the olive, almond, and wine harvests, accompanied by sunny, mild weather. Explore Greek and Roman ruins, hike Mount Etna, or cycle through nature reserves and wine regions.
London, England: City Breaks and Festive Spirit
Christmas in London decorations appear by mid-November, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors.
Christmas in London decorations appear by mid-November, creating a festive atmosphere for visitors.
London is a fantastic city break destination in November. Museum enthusiasts will find blockbuster exhibitions opening in the fall, and the London Jazz Festival attracts world-class talent. By mid-November, the Christmas spirit begins to take hold, with festive lights illuminating shopping streets, Christmas markets popping up, and hotels offering delightful holiday high teas. Don’t miss Guy Fawkes Night on November 5th for bonfires and fireworks.
Norway: Northern Lights and Koselig Experiences
Northern Lights, Norway, are visible in November, offering a chance to witness the aurora borealis.
You have a good chance of spotting the northern lights in Norway in November, along with cozy “kos” experiences.
For a unique European experience, consider Norway in November. While the weather can be unpredictable, the rewards are plentiful. November offers excellent chances to witness the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). Engage in local crafts like glass-blowing, ceramics, or knitting, and embrace the Norwegian concept of “kos” – consciously appreciating your surroundings and practicing gratitude. With fewer summer crowds, locals have more time to connect with visitors. Hiking, kayaking, arctic surfing (weather permitting), and whale watching are also available for adventurous travelers.
Beyond Europe: Global November Travel Ideas
St. Barts: Caribbean Rebirth
Le Guanahani, St. Barts, reopens in November, offering a fresh and new resort experience post-hurricane season.
Le Guanahani, St. Barts, reopens in November, offering a fresh and new resort experience post-hurricane season.
St. Barts in the Caribbean comes alive again in November. Many resorts, boutiques, and restaurants that close during hurricane season reopen, creating a fresh and renewed atmosphere. The Saint Barth Gourmet Festival also takes place this month, attracting renowned chefs. Hotel and villa rates remain attractive until mid-December.
Morocco: Perfect Weather and Harvest Season
The ksar (fortified village) of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco, is best explored in November with perfect weather.
The ksar (fortified village) of Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco, is best explored in November with perfect weather.
Morocco enjoys ideal weather in November: sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, perfect for stargazing in the desert. Hiking in the Atlas Mountains is also delightful as temperatures cool down, and the peaks may be capped with photogenic snow. It’s harvest time, offering opportunities to witness saffron picking and olive oil production firsthand.
Argentina and Chile, including Patagonia: Spring in South America
Torres del Paine National Park view of mountains and water, Patagonia, Chile, is especially smart to visit in November.
Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile, is especially smart to visit in November.
Most of Argentina and Chile are excellent destinations in November, including Buenos Aires, the Atacama Desert, and Easter Island. Patagonia, however, is particularly appealing this month. Lodges offer a quieter, more relaxed ambiance, and roads are less congested compared to peak season in December and January. November is also prime time for wildlife spotting in Patagonia, as animals are more active during breeding season. Enjoy spring-like weather with melting snow on mountain peaks and blooming flowers.
The Brazilian Amazon: Beach Season and Fewer Mosquitoes
Aerial view of Anavilhanas National Park Islands, Rio Negro, Brazilian Amazon, showcases white beaches forming in November.
White beaches form on the Rio Negro, in the Brazilian Amazon, in November.
The Brazilian Amazon reveals its unique beauty in November as river levels are at their lowest, exposing stunning white-sand beaches along the Rio Negro. A 5-day trip fits perfectly into a Thanksgiving break. The Negro River’s acidic waters naturally deter mosquito breeding, minimizing the risk of malaria or Zika.
Belize: Jungle and Reef Adventures
aerial shot of Belize ocean with sailboat, ideal for exploring both water and jungle in November.
Explore Belize on the water or in the jungle, enjoying lower hotel rates before Thanksgiving.
Belize offers lower hotel rates before Thanksgiving in November. Days are hot, but humidity decreases, and evenings are cool and breezy. Experience Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19th in Dangriga or Hopkins for drumming, dancing, and parades celebrating Garifuna culture.
Mexico: Day of the Dead Festivities
Candles lighten up for Día de Muertos in Michoacan, Mexico, a significant cultural holiday in early November.
Día de Muertos in Michoacan, Mexico, a significant cultural holiday in early November.
Experience the deeply cultural Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico (November 1st and 2nd). Witness Mexican families and communities honoring departed loved ones with vibrant festivities and traditions. Celebrations range from large public events to intimate private gatherings, particularly vibrant in Mexico City, Chiapas, Oaxaca, and the Yucatan Peninsula.
The Galapagos Islands: Wildlife Encounters
underwater photo of a sea lion in the Galapagos islands, where predator-free sea lions may approach closely while snorkeling.
Predator-free Galapagos sea lions may come this close to you when you’re snorkeling in November.
For a quieter Galapagos experience, visit in November (excluding Thanksgiving week). Blue whales, humpback whales, and whale sharks are frequently spotted from June through November.
Guatemala: Festival of Giant Kites
A handmade kite at Santiago Sacatepéquez Festival de Barriletes Gigantes in Guatemala, celebrated every November 1st.
A handmade kite at Santiago Sacatepéquez’s Festival de Barriletes Gigantes in Guatemala.
Guatemala hosts the unique Festival de Barriletes Gigantes (Festival of Giant Kites) every November 1st in Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepéquez. This festival blends Catholic and Mayan traditions, featuring giant, handmade kites with social themes. November marks the end of the wet season, offering drier weather in the weeks following the festival.
Nepal: Trekking and Cultural Festivals
Durbar Square in Patan village Nepal, perfect to visit in November for trekking and cultural exploration.
Patan’s Durbar Square, Nepal, perfect to visit in November for trekking and cultural exploration.
Nepal in November offers perfect conditions for trekking and cultural exploration. Enjoy crisp, clear air with stunning mountain views free from pre-monsoon dust. Experience festivals like Manu Rimdu near Everest, an exorcism festival with dancing and prayers, and Tihar, the Festival of Lights.
Thailand: Ideal Weather Across the Country
The view from Anantara Golden Triangle Resort in Chiang Rai, Thailand, showcasing lush green mountains in November.
From north (here, near Chiang Rai) to south, Thailand is at its best in November.
Thailand is at its best in November throughout much of the country. Mountains are lush and green after the monsoon, mornings are misty, and the sun is gentler. Rivers are full, and waterfalls are at their peak. It’s an ideal time to visit before December crowds and higher prices arrive.
India: Festivals and Pleasant Temperatures
Drummers at the Kalapthy Festival in Kerala, India, one of the many festivals in November throughout the country.
Drummers at the Kalpathi Festival in Kerala, India.
Almost all of India (excluding the Himalayas) enjoys temperate weather in November. Clear skies prevail in Delhi and Mumbai post-monsoon, and numerous festivals take place, including the Pushkar Camel Fair in Rajasthan and the Kalpathi Chariot Festival in Kerala.
Australia and New Zealand: Springtime Adventures
aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef from an airplane, where calm waters in November enhance visibility.
November sees calm water around the Great Barrier Reef.
November is an excellent month for exploring Australia and New Zealand. The Great Barrier Reef offers calm waters and excellent visibility. Spring weather is pleasant in Auckland, Sydney, Kangaroo Island, and the Outback. New Zealand’s South Island peaks remain beautifully snow-capped.
More November Travel Inspiration
Consider these additional destinations for your November travels:
North America:
- Arizona: Grand Canyon
- Florida: Disney World, Orlando
- Hawaii: Maui and Oahu (for whale-watching)
South America:
- Argentina: Mendoza
- Colombia: Cartagena and Bogota
Europe:
- England: The Cotswolds
- Greece: Athens
- Iceland (for Northern Lights)
- Italy: Rome and Sicily
- Scotland
- Malta
Asia:
- Cambodia: Angkor Wat
- China: Beijing
- Indonesia: Bali
- Myanmar
- Thailand: Bangkok
- Vietnam (southern)
Africa:
- Madagascar: whale sharks
Australia and Pacific:
- Fiji (for November deals)
Cruises:
- Africa Cruises
- Antarctica Cruises
November offers a world of travel possibilities. Whether you seek European charm, Caribbean sun, South American adventures, or Asian cultural experiences, November is an ideal month to explore. Start planning your fall getaway today!
