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Best places to visit in Europe in November (2023 guide)

What are the best places to visit in Europe in November? 

November’s the start of the cooler season in Europe, and while the barometer drops, there’s plenty of sunny weather in the south, it’s an excellent off-peak time to explore the major cities and festivals are abundant throughout the continent. 

Europe’s abundance of destinations mean that there’s something to suit every taste and style throughout the continent – head to the Northern regions for snow and cosy vibes and Southern Europe for warm temperatures and almost deserted beaches!

Table of Contents

Why visit Europe in November? 

November’s on the cusp of the winter months, and while you won’t find heat anywhere, the South does have warm weather. 

It might not be beach holiday, sunbathing and swimming in the Med weather, but the mild temperatures are conducive enough for picnicking on the beach and hiking! 

In fact, much of Europe can be far too warm in the peak summer months, and November’s usually the sweet spot before it starts cooling off from December to February. 

However, head north, and winter’s already in full swing. 

Iceland’s a popular destination in the winter, thanks to its northern lights and snow, and November’s generally the start of the big freeze here.

Tromsø in Norway’s also well worth visiting to learn about Sami culture, skiing and the Northern Lights . 

European destinations like London and Bologna have events in November, too. Plus, it’s well worth visiting during the off-peak season – when the cities are much quieter than the summer months!

Best places to visit in Europe in November

The best places to visit in Europe in November are scattered across the continent. Whether you want pleasant weather and sandy beaches in the south or the dark skies of the north, there are tonnes of places in early winter here!

Let’s delve into the best places in November in Europe! 

1. Madeira, Portugal

Visiting Madeira in November ?

This Portuguese archipelago is well-known for its lush landscapes and subtropical climate; it sits in the Atlantic Ocean, further south than most of Mainland Europe, which keeps the climate fairly mild! 

In fact, while temperatures can dip, they are usually warm enough for outdoor activities, averaging between 17-22°C (63-72°F).

Visit Funchal, the capital, and explore its historic sites, such as the Sé Cathedral and the CR7 Museum.

November’s an ideal time for hiking enthusiasts to explore Madeira’s famous levadas , or irrigation channels, as the cooler weather makes for a more comfortable trek.

While rain is more likely in November, the showers generally pass quickly – and they also contribute to the island’s vibrant greenery!

Outdoor activities aren’t limited to hiking; on the coastline you can go SCUBA diving, with visibility often exceeding 30 meters. The sea’s still relatively warm in November! 

2. Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza: it’s not all about partying, and it’s also the perfect destination for a November trip! 

November’s an excellent month to see what else Ibiza has to offer. 

The hordes of tourists have receded, providing a quieter, more authentic atmosphere so you can delve into the island’s cultural and natural landscapes.

Daytime temperatures in November range from 16-20°C (61-68°F). Evening temperatures can be cooler, so bring layers!

The quieter streets of Ibiza Town are dreamy in November. 

Visit the historic Dalt Vila, the fortified old town, and discover its cobblestone streets and majestic cathedral without the summer crowds.

Cafés and local eateries welcome you without requiring advance reservations, offering a chance to try traditional Ibicenco cuisine like “ bullit de peix ,” a local fish stew.

November is the ideal month for active travellers – the island’s hiking and biking trails are less crowded.

Routes like the one from San José to Cala d’Hort mean stunning views of the rocky coastline and the mysterious island of Es Vedrà off the coast.

Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are still available, although the sea can be a bit chilly!

Local markets, such as Las Dalias, continue to operate, albeit on a smaller scale.

These venues sell locally made goods, including crafts, clothing, and food items. 

3. Basel, Switzerland

Visiting Basel, Switzerland, in November is dreamy.

With temperatures ranging from 2-9°C (36-48°F), it’s a chilly month (although not as freezing as the snowiest places in Switzerland ) but the city’s indoor attractions and seasonal events have plenty on offer! 

One of the highlights of November is the Autumn Fair, or “ Herbstmesse ,” a tradition that dates back to the 15th century.

The event is one of the largest fairs in Europe and encompasses amusement rides, market stalls, and traditional Swiss foods. It’s a buzzing time to be in the city!

At the end of November, the Christmas markets spring to life.

They’re among some of the best in Europe , with gluwein being sold from traditional stalls and plenty of opportunities to purchase the perfect Christmas presents! 

In November, Basel’s renowned art scene truly comes to life indoors.

The city’s home to over 40 museums, with the Basel Art Museum standing out for its extensive collection of works by Picasso.

Basel’s culinary scene is rich in November ( and throughout winter ), serving everything from traditional Swiss dishes like fondue and rösti to global cuisines.

November’s also a great time for wine enthusiasts, as local vineyards release new vintages that you can sample at various wine bars around the city.

4. London, UK

In November, London blends history, culture, and festivity against a backdrop of shorter days and crisp autumnal air!

It’s cooler and darker: with temperatures ranging from 8-12°C (46-54°F), you’ll want to dress warmly, but it’s cosy!

One of the defining events of London in November is Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night .

Celebrated on 5th November, this tradition commemorates the foiling of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, and it’s marked by spectacular firework displays and bonfires across the city.

Locations like Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, and Victoria Park are popular spots for these events.

They often sell out, so consider booking your tickets early!

Celebrations are family-friendly and feature fairground rides, food stalls, and live entertainment.

In winter , the crowds at landmarks like the British Museum, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace thin out considerably.

You’ll delve into London’s rich history and art scene at a more relaxed pace!

If you’re dining, you’ll find less crowded eateries and a chance to explore London’s international food scene in neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little Venice, and Brick Lane.

At the start of the month, enjoy the city’s parks – like Hyde Park and Regent’s Park – and check out the autumn leaves.

And at the end of the month, Christmas arrives!

Iconic holiday lights start to appear in Covent Garden and Oxford Street and London’s festive markets and Winter Wonderland’s in full swing. 

It’s a fantastic place to visit if you want to enjoy an early Christmas break – the crowds are thinner in November, too! 

5. Tirana, Albania

With its skyline plastered with painted apartment buildings and street art and a glut of green spaces, Tirana is a perennially colourful city in the Balkans where you can cast away November’s gloom.

November is shoulder season in Tirana, so you will find there are far fewer tourists in the city compared to the summer peak months when people pass through on their way to the Albanian Riviera.

Albania marks two important holidays during this month, Independence Day (November 28) and Liberation Day (November 29), which both bring decorations and festivities to the streets.

The biggest event in November is White Night, which also falls on November 29. The entire city of Tirana spills out onto the streets for this cultural bonanza, and all galleries and museums in the city – including BUNK’ART, the famous museum set in a nuclear bunker – are free to visit.

With average highs of 17°C and plenty of winter sunshine, November is also a great month for outdoor activities such as hiking around Dajti Mountain, accessible from the city centre by cable car.

Overnight, the mercury sinks as low as 6°C, perfect for cosying up with a glass of local wine at one of Tirana’s funky bars such as Komiteti Kafe Muzeum.

By Emily from Wander-Lush

6. Piedmont, Italy 

If you’re a foodie looking for a unique November adventure in Europe, plan a visit to the beautiful and under-visited region of Piedmont (Piemonte) in northern Italy.

Long known as the world’s premier producer of Barolo wine, it is also famous for making chocolate in the capital city of Turin.

But one particular delicacy that grows prolifically here is the white truffle, a relatively rare and therefore expensive natural food that is celebrated every November at the prestigious International Alba White Truffle Fair .

Located an hour south of Turin by car, the city of Alba is worth visiting to attend the truffle festival and dine at local restaurants that serve it. Fall is the height of the harvest season in Piedmont and the Fair is a real highlight, especially for foodies.

You’ll learn the difference between black and the rare white truffles. When you see how truffle hunters work with trained “truffle dogs” to search and unearth these knotty morsels, you’ll understand why they are so expensive!

Throughout the multi-day festival, there are cooking classes, wine tastings, and vendors serving local cheeses, cured meats, chocolate, and of course local wine.

Even if you’re not a truffle lover or haven’t tried them before, the Alba Truffle Festival is the place for your taste buds to get acquainted with this wonderfully unique flavour.

By Lori from Travlinmad

7. Paris, France

There’s something special about Paris in November.

When the summer heat fades away, so do the tourist crowds.

Before the French capital gets busy again before the Christmas market and holiday rush, November is the ideal shoulder season to enjoy it in tranquillity. 

November is considered late autumn/ onset of winter, but it isn’t too chilly yet, with temperatures ranging between 6℃ and 11℃.

The crisp air calls for a trench coat and scarves, but you should still be able to take long walks by the Seine!

In fact, it’s the best time to appreciate and take on a French chic style!

As the cool autumn breeze blows, sip a cup of French hot chocolate at a cute terrace cafe.

Visit Carette in Trocadéro for its legendary chocolat chaud and macarons while relishing in a view of the Eiffel Tower. 

Paris is stunning year-round – but nature blesses the city with a breathtaking display of colours in November when the ginko trees transform the streets of Paris with a vibrant golden hue.

Visit the Jardin des Plants to experience this phenomenal sight!

Although November is a calm month before the holiday chaos, it is always best to research the best place to stay in Paris and book in advance.

By Chloe from Chloe’s Travelogue

8. Bologna, Italy

There are two really good reasons to visit Bologna in November.

First, the colder weather is far less of a downside in Bologna than elsewhere.

Most of the streets have porticoes – covered walkways that date from the middle ages. This means that if there’s some rain, it won’t bother you too much!

Plus, cooler temperatures actually make one of the city’s most famous activities more comfortable.

The Portico of San Luca, Bologna is the world’s longest portico, a covered stretch of pavement, at 4km long.

This handsome portico stretches from Bologna city centre up into the hills outside Bologna, ending at the Sanctuary of the Madonna of San Luca.

There’s a religious procession from the church down to the city once a year.

But every day, locals and tourists do the walk in reverse, from the city up the hill.

And it’s not much fun on a hot day because half the route is unrelenting uphill steps. Doing this walk on a cooler day is much more sensible!

The second reason to visit Bologna in November relates to its foodie heritage.

Bologna lies at the heart of Emilia-Romagna, the Italian region from which we get Parma ham, Parmigiano Reggiano and Aceto Balsamico di Modena.

And in November, there’s a foodie festival in the Bolognese area: Tartufesta .

During this festival to celebrate the local white truffle that is found in the Bolognese hills, there are several events in the nearby towns, from October into November.

It’s similar to the festival in Piedmont; you could visit both on one trip!

I personally don’t have a taste for truffles, but I found the local foodie heritage and customs in Bologna fascinating.

And I really loved the food tour by Delicious Bologna – it’s really informative and involves tasting lots of local food and wine.

By Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com

9. Burgundy

November’s the perfect time of year to explore the historic region of Burgundy, located in eastern France .

This is when the area of Beaujolais, which sits between Burgundy to the north and Rhône to the south, hosts the renowned Beaujolais Nouveau Festival .

It’s held on the third Thursday of November annually, to celebrate the first wine of the season.

The tradition originated in the 19th century when local vintners would compete to produce the first wine after harvest.

The rules surrounding the festival are strictly adhered to. All grapes must be harvested by hand, and the wine produced from the Gamay grape variety.

The Beaujolais Nouveau cannot be uncorked till precisely 12:01 a.m!

At that point, it’s released onto the market amid a flurry of celebrations and calls of “Le Beaujolais Nouveau est arrivé!”.

It’s a lot of fun and normally accompanied by fireworks, good food, and of course, plenty of Beaujolais Nouveau!

In addition to the festival, Burgundy is famous for its historical sites, such as the cobbled streets of Dijon, where you can visit the Palace of the Dukes and the adjacent Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the oldest museums in France.

And don’t forget a tour of the region’s vineyards to see how the wine is made, and to do a little tasting of your own.

By Kylie from Life in Rural France

10. Cadiz, Spain 

A trip to Cadiz in Andalusia, Spain during November is ideal for winter sunshine and blue waters! 

With daytime temperatures hovering between 15°C and 19°C, it’s one of the best Andalusian cities to explore! 

November’s lower visitor numbers give you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and delve into the city’s rich history.

If avoiding crowds appeals, there’s an abundance of tranquil beaches and coastline stretching beyond the city limits, just waiting for your footsteps!

While in Cadiz, don’t miss out on the Old Town.

Here, you’ll find an array of plazas, historic structures, and civic landmarks like the Cathedral and City Hall.

For a change of scenery, you can head to the Malecon district to experience the bay-front castle, San Sebastian. Alternatively, a local train can whisk you off to various beaches around the city.

November also brings a line-up of local events. Look out for Dia de San Clemente festivities in honor of the patron saint of sailors and All Saints Day celebrations at the start of the month. 

Your visit wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local street food, exploring the numerous public markets and plazas, and letting yourself get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Town.

By Noel from Visit Spain and Mediterranean.com

11. Budapest, Hungary

Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is one of those cities that can be visited year-round.

However, if you want to enjoy mild weather and a city that’s not overcrowded with tourists, make your way here in November.

At the start of the month, the autumn foliage is at its best.

The parks are glistening with shades of yellow, copper, and green as the leaves are quietly putting on their best display. 

While the city offers a lot of things to do and places to visit, most of the attractions are condensed along the banks of the Danube.

During a weekend in Budapest you can visit Buda Castle with its imposing Matthias Church and beautiful Fishermen Bastion.

Or, hike Gellert Hill to Citadella and enjoy some gorgeous views of Pest (Buda and Pest are the two sides of the city!). 

In Pest, visit the imposing Parliament Building and the Great Market Hall.

Hop on Metro line 1 and get off at Heroes Square or stroll down Andrassy Avenue.

At the end of the avenue, you’ll find the huge Heroes Square with statues and further down, the gorgeous Vajdahunyad Castle and its grounds (which, by the way, are superb in late autumn).

Staying longer? Plan for a couple of day trips.

Szentendre is easily reachable by HEV and can be visited in half a day. Enjoy this colorful village and stop for a nice cake at the Marzipan Museum.

And if you love wine, be sure to visit Eger, located about an hour by train from Budapest.

By Cris from LooknWalk

12. Ronda, Spain

Ronda in southern Spain is a wonderful November destination.

While the mornings and evenings are crisp, it’s gorgeous in the sun.

Fall colours are at their best in mid-November before the rain starts – plus, the walk down to the viewpoint of the New Bridge is beautiful at this time of the year!

Gardens between the New Bridge and the Old Bridge are glorious in November.

Don’t miss the attractions in the Old Town like the Arab Baths and old castle walls!

This is also where to stay in Ronda if you want to be in the middle of the medieval town. However, cross the bridge and look for a place to stay there if you prefer having the hippest bars and restaurants at your doorstep.

You find most of them along the pedestrian street. Mid-November is also the best time of the year to chase fall colors in Bosque de Cobre (Copper Forest) which is in Valle del Genal.

There are several hikes you can do through the orange blanket of chestnut trees covering the valley and it is one of the best places to see fall colors in southern Spain.

By Linn from Amused by Andalucia

13. Lagos, Portugal

Located in the Algarve region of Portugal, Lagos is an excellent location for beautiful beaches and mild weather outside of summer.

A wonderful town for winter sun – with some of the best weather in mainland Europe in November – Lagos is optimum for hiking, surfing and even relaxing on the beach. 

Walk on the boardwalks to see the famous Ponta Piedade or even hike all the way on the cliffs to the town of Luz!

Temperatures creep up to 22°C (72°F) in November; which is summer conditions elsewhere in Europe!

Several boat tours from Lagos still depart from the marina in November.

But, as it’s the off-season in the Algarve, there will be fewer tourists compared to the summer months!

This means that accommodation is significantly less expensive in this popular holiday location.

Several cultural events and markets take place in the Algarve in November, such as the famous centuries-old autumn fair ‘Feira de São Martinho’ dating back to 1662 in nearby Portimão.

Lagos has excellent golf courses, too.

November’s a fantastic time to take out the golf clubs as it’s still warm enough for golf, and the courses aren’t as busy as in the summer!

By Campbell from The Algarve Family

14. Zermatt, Switzerland

For an early season of snowflakes, snowboarding, skiing and making snow angels, one of the best places you can visit is Zermatt.

Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps and the Valais canton of Switzerland, Zermatt in November is beautiful place to be.

November is usually the opening month of the winter season, once the area gets a good snowfall. Which makes it great for not being so touristic. Not all will be open, but its just as special as any other season.

Top wintery things you must do while visiting Zermatt include dining at a cosy local restaurant (with gluhwein!), taking the stunning red Gornergrat train to 3,135 meter elevation, and of course taking the Matterhorn Glacier Express from the village to the very top peak of the Kleine Matterhorn (including skiing from here!).

On a clear day, the views are truly stunning at the top. You can even consider visiting the additional ski mountain station at the Testa Grigia.

For the local ski and chairlifts, you can book your tickets in advance via the Zermatt Tourism website, else to buy a ticket on the day of arrival at the entrance area in Zermatt.

Though it’s advised to buy in advance and enjoy a wonderful wintery time in this picturesque location.

By Zoe from Together In Switzerland

15. Fuerteventura, Spain

Looking for a winter break in a bathing suit? Look no more, Fuerteventura awaits you!

This Canary Island boasts incredible beaches and a stable climate throughout the year.

It’s perfect for enjoying the sea even during winter months!

In November, Fuerteventura’s beaches are perfect for relaxing, with temperatures reaching up to 22ºC (72ºF).

From the famous golden landscape of Corralejo (the biggest dunes of the archipelago!) to the beautiful Cotillo beaches in the north of the island to the breathtaking 12-kilometre Cofete Beach in the south, there are almost 200 beaches waiting to be explored!

In the centre of the island, you’ll find beautiful towns like Betancuria, which is one of the oldest towns on the Canary Islands and Fuerteventura’s former capital. 

Plus, Fuerteventura’s easy to reach in November: take one of many flights from mainland Spain or several European cities.

You might even be able to nap a bargain with low-cost companies like RyanAir and Easyjet.

Fancy seeing another Canary Island? I have guides for Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria in winter too. 

By Inês from Random Trip

16. Oslo, Norway

Looking for Christmas vibes before the start of the peak season? Head to Oslo in Norway!

Starting in mid-November, Oslo sets up its annual Christmas Market along the main street, Karl Johan Street.

Here, you’ll find tons of wooden stalls selling traditional food, warm drinks, and hand-crafted souvenirs!

During November, the city’s average high is 4°C (40°F) and an average low is 0°C(32°F) – comparatively warmer than the following months!

So, if you want to visit Norway in winter but don’t want too chilly weather, November in Oslo’s perfect.

Aside from wandering the Christmas market, there are plenty of other things to do.

Aa popular attraction is the Munch Museum which showcases hundreds of pieces by the Norwegian painter Edvard Munch.

The iconic  The Scream  painting is on display there!

Another fun activity is to  walk around and sample the local street food !

Don’t miss the Norwegian waffle – usually thinner than other waffles and often served with Norwegian “brown cheese”.

So if you’re keen on exploring the Scandinavian region and visiting one of the first Christmas markets that opens in Europe, consider visiting Oslo in November!

By Kristin from Global Travel Escapades

FAQs about visiting Europe in November

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about spending December in Europe!

Is November a good time to visit Europe?

Absolutely, November’s ideal for a different, less crowded trip to Europe!

While it’s the onset of winter, attractions like museums and historical sites are less congested.

Additionally, several cities are gearing up for the holiday season !

Which part of Europe is best to visit in November?

If you seek a holiday atmosphere minus the December crowds, head to Central European cities like Vienna and Prague.

Want to avoid cold temperatures?

Southern regions like Andalusia in Spain or the Greek Islands have milder climates!

Is it too cold to visit Europe in November?

The cold depends on the region.

Northern countries like Sweden or Norway have colder temperatures, often dipping below freezing.

Central Europe varies but generally hovers around 5-10°C (41-50°F).

Southern Europe enjoys milder temperatures – it’s more manageable if you’re not so fond of the cold!

Where in Europe is warmest in November?

The warmest destinations in Europe during November are the Canary Islands, where temperatures average around 20-24°C (68-75°F).

You’ll also find milder weather in parts of southern Spain , Italy, and Greece.

Which country is best to visit in November?

The “best” country to visit in November depends on what you’re looking for!

For winter festivals and holiday markets, Central European countries like Austria or Czech Republic are excellent.

For outdoor activities in milder weather, how about Spain or Portugal ?

If you’re looking for early snowsports, glaciers and Northern Lights, head north, to Norway or Iceland !

Are you ready to explore Europe in November?

From rich food festivals to earth season skiing for winter sunshine, exploring Europe in November is an excellent idea!

Whatever your trip style, you’ll find plenty to love on this continent at the start of the winter season.

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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The 30 best holiday destinations in November

By Sarah James

November means winter is fast-approaching the UK , which equals getting up and going home in the dark, usually in the pelting rain, no winter coat on earth a match for the season’s creeping damp. It’s almost NHS-prescribed that you pick a November holiday destination to survive until the sunlight finally peeps through again around March . Happily, the Caribbean is basking in a mellow, pre-Christmas glow, while the rainy season has dried up in East Africa and South-east Asia. And if you want to see how winter is really done, leave behind our soggy isles for epic white-outs in the extreme north and south. So, without further ado, these are the 30 best holiday destinations in November. For more, see our guide to where is hot in November .

30 best holiday destinations in November

Lisbon, Portugal

Temperature : 20°C high; 12°C low Season : autumn Travel time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

As most of mainland Europe shivers, Portugal remains enviably mild: Lisbon ’s average November temperature is 18°C. Of course, it’s not just the weather that makes this cobbled capital so alluring: now ranking among Europe’s coolest city breaks , it’s a hive of high-end but refreshingly affordable restaurants , raucous hole-in-the-wall bars and covetable concept stores (not to mention those cute, canary-yellow vintage trams). Lisbon was even named Europe's most budget-friendly city break for 2023 . Make time to explore neighbourhood-of-the-moment Cais do Sodré, a formerly sketchy part of town that now has a spruced-up riverfront promenade, cool warehouse conversions and fab food stalls at Time Out -curated Mercado da Ribeira.

Where to stay: Tropical-themed The Ivens gets our pick for one of the best new hotels in the world for 2022. If you're after a view, try this rooftop Airbnb near Alfama or Memmo Alfama which has one of the best rooftop pools in the city. For more, see our edit of the best hotels in Lisbon .

Sayulita, Mexico

Temperature: 33°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 15 hours Time difference: GMT -5

Join the hippies in this Pacific coast surf town, where brightly painted design boutiques and vintage surfboard shops rub up against al pastor stands and street eats sold from wheelbarrows. Less glam than Tulum , but much hipper than resort-y Puerto Vallarta further south, it’s an easy-breezy scene, more catching waves and afternoon Margaritas than yoga and cold-pressed juice. An absence of major hotels, in favour of hippie-chic guesthouses ( Casa Love and Petit Hotel Hafa are favourites), gives the impression of a best-kept secret – but, come Christmas, Sayulita is packed. Nip in just before peak season, though, and not only have the summer rain and humidity finally eased off, but it’s the best time for whale watching, too. Or consider staying in Sayulita’s quieter neighbour, San Pancho. The small hotels here are closely tied to the community. Tailwind Jungle Lodge , for example, hosts community events, donates to sustainable development in the area and promotes local businesses to guests – and it’s just a 30-minute drive to Sayulita for a day’s surfing.

Where to stay: Just 36 guests are given the run of green jungle, white beach and blue water across 250 acres at Imanta Resorts Punta de Mita .

Athens, Greece

Temperature : 18°C high; 12°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 3 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+2

Athens makes a brilliant and warm weekend city break , where the new youth culture is breathing life into this historical city and hip young start-ups are booming in the face of austerity. Performances spaces, art galleries and quirky bars have sprung up in once-gritty neighbourhoods, and high-end shops have been reborn as restaurants. Go in November, when it's cool enough to wander around the Acropolis and the Parthenon and still have a crisp blue-sky backdrop to your Instagram shots. The fact that you'll also skip the crowds is the cherry on top.

Where to stay: Foodies won't want to miss xenodocheio Milos , a hotel by chef Costas Spiliadis. For something playful, check in to one of the compact but comfy rooms at Gatsby Athens . Design hotel NEW packs a punch, with upcycled furniture and a rooftop restaurant. For an eco-friendly trip, consider a stay at the Coco-Mat hotel , where the all-natural, locally handmade mattresses and linens are just the tip of their stay-natural philosophy. There are also wooden bikes for eco-friendly sightseeing, an onsite herb garden and homemade, seasonal food. For more, see our pick of the best hotels in Athens .

Antigua and Barbuda

Temperature: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 8 hours 35 minutes Time difference: GMT-5

Friday nights in Antigua go something like this: rum punch and barbecued spiny-tailed lobster, dancing barefoot on the beach in the moonlight, and walking home sandy and dishevelled but happy the next morning. The island is as wild and wonderful as it is flashy - away from the five-star hotels and super yachts, you can still find empty white-sand beaches. Support conservation and biodiversity by booking an ecotour at Wallings Nature Reserve , the first-ever community-managed national park. Learn about the history and the wildlife as you hike this not-for-profit sanctuary. Antigua's little sister Barbuda is more go-slow, with a handful of low-key hotels.

Where to stay: We recommend Jumby Bay , a secluded 300-acre island off the north coast of Antigua.

The South Downs, England

Temperature : 11ºC high; 3ºC low Season: autumn/winter Time difference: none

Fairweather walkers should probably stick to summer. But for blustery yomps along the beach or over Downs, followed by local ales fireside in some toasty, well-restored boozer – which the area has in spades – autumn is a treat of a time for a South Downs weekender. South Downs National Park spans 165 conservation areas, more than a dozen European wildlife sites, and thousands of listed buildings and monuments, with the South Downs Way stretching 100 miles. The walk is broken up into short sections and is nicely signposted for cyclists and walkers. Visit The Sustainability Centre , which hosts workshops for children and adults throughout the year. And on 5 November it hosts the most spectacular Guy Fawkes’ Night anywhere, when the market town of Lewes becomes the bonfire capital of the world, with processions, fireworks displays, flaming tar barrels and burning effigies illuminating its streets.

Where to stay: At The Pig in the South Downs , featured on our 2022 hot list of the best new hotels in the world. We also love The Star , a wonderful 15th-century inn given a fresh makeover in 2021 by Olga Polizzi.

Temperature: 4°C high; -2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

November brings Iceland ’s dark winter nights and, with them, the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Oh yes, you’ll be told to manage your expectations, that aurora-hunting is a tricky business, but in a country where it’s not unheard of to see the dance of the green veils as you exit the airport, you’d have to be rather luckless to miss out. Stack the odds in your favour by staying somewhere as deliciously remote as Deplar Farm . Iceland’s best hotel is a high-end hideout on the remote Troll Peninsula , with diversions ranging from sensory-deprivation pods to heli-skiing excursions.

Where to stay: Scandi-rustic Deplar Farm is the most extraordinary stay in the country. The newly opened Reykjavik Edition is a great central option, with a notable rooftop terrace for viewing the northern lights. For something private, rent this unique glass cabin on Airbnb . See our guide to the best hotels in Iceland for more recommendations.

Phoenix, Arizona, USA

Temperature: 25°C high; 10°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT-8

Frank Lloyd Wright said Arizona deserved its own architecture; that the state invited a distinctive, desert aesthetic. So he set about scattering that legacy across the barren landscape from his winter home and studio, Taliesin West in Scottsdale – just outside the state capital, Phoenix, and perhaps the ultimate manifestation of mid-century Arizona style. So it was only a matter of time until Phoenix dropped its decades-long reputation as an arid, old-school spa town and adopted that of an edgy, visual arts hub. Inevitably, the hip young things descended, bringing cool and culture, too. Taliesin West is now an art museum and architecture school; downtown, Bentley Gallery at Bentley Projects shows exciting mid-career artists under the exposed pipes of a restored warehouse and former laundry. Today’s Phoenix is the sort of place to drink cocktails in an Art Deco landmark (Bitter & Twisted), before retiring to a fabulously retro hotel designed by a Wright protégé, once frequented by Marilyn Monroe and Cary Grant ( Hotel Valley Ho ). For the best view of the city, though, you’ve got to hike up red-rock Camelback Mountain – an easier proposal in November’s mid-20s temperatures.

Where to stay: We love The Phoenician , set across 250-acres of the Sonoran Desert. Or choose a hotel that takes advantage of their place in the ‘Valley of the Sun’ and using solar power, including The Phoenician and the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale .

Essaouira, Morocco

Temperature: 22°C high; 15°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 6 hours Time difference: GMT+0

For a blast of winter sun a short hop away, Morocco is ideal - even for a weekend break. Along the coast are windswept beaches and surf towns such as Taghazout and Tamraght, where it's all about chilling out in the sun. Essaouira is a feast for the senses: freshly-caught fish is grilled over smoking-hot coals in shacks right on the harbour, and shisha smoke rises from rooftop bars. Jimi Hendrix and Cat Stevens used to hang out here, and it's still a free-spirited place, with dozens of independent galleries and boutiques selling locally made pottery and crafts. Make time for a spot of ethical shopping. Mashi Mushki, which sells locally made art and crafts, donates a portion of profits to Project 91, which helps young people in Essaouira find employment. Swanky (and sustainable) boutique hotel Villa Maroc sells Argan oil made by a local cooperative.

Where to stay: At Didier Spindler's maximalist B&B Dar Adul . For something more romantically rustic try Villa Maroc or Auberge Tangaro .

Above: Reading room at Auberge Tangaro

Anna Prendergast

Caitlin Morton

Sarah James

 Tenerife, Spain

Temperature : 23ºC high; 18ºC low Season: autumn Flight time from UK : 4 hours 30 minutes Time difference: none

Short-hop year-round sunshine is what Tenerife is known for. Which is great – but beyond the beaches and the package-holiday crowds, there’s another side to this Canary Island which delights the more curious traveller: architecture in the colonial towns of La Laguna and La Orotava, low-key restaurants in fishing villages such as Garachico, lunar landscapes to walk in its blackened interior, and contemporary art and architecture in the capital Santa Cruz. The waters around Tenerife are busy with whales, and with whale-watchers. Not all whale-watching trips are responsibly operated – check out their eco-certification first. Whale Wise Eco Tours use solar-powered electric boats to minimise noise and carbon footprint. Plus, 200 miles out in the Atlantic, the island is one of the best places in the world for stargazing .

Where to stay: Families love the pink palace that is The Ritz-Carlton Abama . For something more boutique, book a room with a terrace at La Laguna Gran Hotel.

Temperature: 30°C high; 21°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 7 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT+3

If what you want is a hit of winter sun, somewhere remote with wide open spaces, and just a short flight away from the UK, then Oman may just be the place you were looking for. Muscat is where you'll find age-old traditions, elaborate mosques and scent-filled souks. On the west coast, the Musandam Peninsula has empty coves and always-warm green-blue water, hidden by the imposing Hajar mountains. For more dramatic scenery still, travel along the southern coast, camping among the dunes in goat's-hair Bedouin tents. Choose an overland camping adventure with Responsible Travel that spirits you across the desert from the capital, Muscat, to incongruously green Salalah in the south. As well as visiting traditional fishing villages and learning about Bedouin life from local guides, you’ll stop by Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve and the Arabian Oryx Sanctuary.

Where to stay: The Chedi in Muscat is made up of low-built villas set in gardens of oranges. At Six Senses Zighy Bay, the pool villas embrace traditional Omani style and are carved out of stone. For a grown-up mountain retreat, try Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort , one of Oman’s most ambitious wilderness hotels.

Above: Zighy Bay, Oman

Namibia, Africa

Temperature : 31ºC high; 16ºC low Season: dry season/winter Flight time from UK : 10 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

The vast, remote landscapes of Namibia are some of the most magnificent on earth. Mountainous dunes, endless empty desert, untouched savannah where the big hitters of African wildlife roam: elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, rhinos, giraffes. In recent years, a crop of knock-out new camps is allowing wildlife lovers to discover the farthest stretches of this country. While November brings the start of the rains in Namibia, this is not necessarily a bad thing when it comes to wildlife variety and sheer drama.

“Across most of southern Africa, November is an interesting month. It is a time of transition – giving travellers an amazing experience of the end of the dry season and the spectacular breaking of the rains,” says Chris McIntyre, founder of specialist tour operator Expert Africa . At the tail end of the dry season, wildlife gathers at the waterholes in places such as Etosha National Park. Then as the rains roll in, when storm clouds gather over the mountains and plains, the landscapes begin to bloom again.

“Swiftly following the greening of the land is a flush of new life, as more insects, reptiles, amphibians and migrant birds appear on the scene,” says McIntyre. And as it’s low season, prices are appealing low, too.

Where to stay: Many of Namibia’s incredible new lodges are eco-friendly with a minimal footprint and work with local communities and conservation groups. In the Huab River valley, Damaraland Camp is a pioneer of community-based tourism – a partnership between Wilderness Safaris and the local Torra Conservancy. Hoanib Valley Camp works with the local community and Giraffe Conservation Foundation. Expert Africa can arrange bespoke itineraries to Namibia. We also love Habitas Namibia , a wellness-focused, people-driven safari camp.

Verbier, Switzerland

Temperature: 3°C high; -6°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

In Switzerland ’s Verbier, the emphasis is on fun. The smugly proficient can get their free-ride fix with the best back-country skiing in the Alps. The forever hopeless can just park their planks and whoop it up tobogganing instead. The apres scene is second-to-none: Farm Club has been a snooty institution for nearly half a century, with its haughty door policy and past guests including Diana Ross. And the hotels aren’t your average chalet set-up, belonging to the likes of Design Hotels and Small Luxury Hotels Group. Several lifts open in early November (weekends only), thanks to good snow cover at higher altitudes – your best chance to ski in and then ski the hell out before the high-season crush.

Where to stay: Paris-based cocktail crew The Experimental Group are behind speakeasy on the slopes Experimental Chalet .

New Zealand

Temperature: 22°C high; 12°C low Season : spring Flight time from UK: 24 hours Time difference: GMT+11

On New Zealand 's South Island, you can ski in the morning and sunbathe in the afternoon. It's action-packed, with wild swimming, white-water rafting, glacier hiking, bungee-jumping, sky-diving, horse-riding… On the North Island, you'll find hot springs – pure bliss – and off the coast of Auckland, some of the most amazing beaches you'll ever see. Take a couple of weeks out to do a classic campervan trip when the islands are at their most Middle Earth-y. New Zealand has its own breed of super lodges in superlative settings, from remote bays to rugged mountaintops and beside lakes so enormous and awe-inspiring it's difficult to comprehend. Visit the small seaside town of Kaikoura, not far from Christchurch, is widely hailed NZ’s most sustainable spot. Known for its resident sperm whale population and regular blue whale sightings, the town has established a community trust, Whale Watch, owned by the local Maori people. Not only is this a multi-award-winning, responsible whale-watching operator, but it reinvests profits in community education and employment, and the local environment. Check out the brilliant Hapuku Tree Houses and Lodge too, with locally sourced food, composting and recycling programmes, salvaged interiors and a native tree-planting scheme.

Where to stay: Matakarui Lodge in Queenstown is the country’s favourite lodge.

Above: Scrubby Bay, Akaroa

Kerala, India

Temperature : 31ºC high; 24ºC low Season: dry season/winter Flight time from UK : 10 hours Time difference: GMT+4.5

November marks the beginning of Kerala's dry season and the end of the monsoons, which bring God’s Own Country bursting forth in verdant green, from its palm-lined lakes to the richly biodiverse slopes of the Western Ghats. This is India at its most chilled, its sandy shores quieter than those in Goa , and the scent of Ayurvedic oils in the air. Exploring is a hassle-free delight here – pootling around the backwaters by boat for an insight into local life, or hiring a motorbike to seek out new beaches, or putting up at homestays with families.

Where to stay: The quiet colonial streets of Fort Cochin – one of the most charming places on the entire planet – are home to many lovely places to stay. One of the loveliest is Malabar House , Cochin’s original boutique hotel, arranged riad-like around a courtyard pool. Now their properties include a houseboat on Lake Vembanad.

Valletta, Malta

Temperature : 20°C high; 13°C low Season: autumn Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

Down in the southern Med, between Sicily and the North African coast, November does not mean gloomy dark afternoons and morning frosts. Even though you might spot the odd red telephone box, that’s as far as the British influence extends – sunny Malta gets eight hours of shimmering rays a day this month, while the mercury floats, or perhaps gloats, at around 20°C. Better still, this is a European autumn sun break with more going for it than beaches (though it has those, too). Capital Valletta’s honey-coloured forts are so cinematically good-looking, they starred in Game of Thrones as King’s Landing, and the old town’s palazzos are lately finding new life as high-design hotels, such as millionaire philanthropist Mark Weingard’s upcoming Iniala Malta.

Where to stay: 66 Saint Paul’s on balconied Ursula Street has a tiny rooftop pool. Another option is Domus Zamittello , a restored baroque masterpiece with painted coffered ceilings.

Temperature : 23°C high; 8°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 12 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT+4:45

November is the optimum time for trekking in the Himalayas: it's not too hot, the sky is clear enough to see where you're going, the peaks and high passes are clear enough for trekking, and it's the tail-end of high season. (Note: porters are a common feature of Himalayan trekking, and while this does provide much-needed employment to impoverished rural Nepalese people, you must ask tour operators about policies on porters’ rights, and check the weight of loads they’re expected to carry: 25kg is the recommended maximum). Whichever route you're taking – the Annapurna Circuit and Everest are breathtakingly beautiful at this time of year – you're likely to pass through Kathmandu. The gateway city is a remarkable place to spend a few days in before or after trekking: for the Buddhist monasteries and stupas, gardens, enchanting old buildings and colonial air, shopping and the insanely good street food.

Where to stay: Dwarika's Hotel in Kathmandu has become the stuff of legend among wellness-seekers.

Temperature : 26°C high; 13°C low Season : autumn Travel time from UK : 5 hours 30 minutes Time difference : GMT +2

November ushers in Egypt ’s mild winter, more akin to a good summer in England : Cairo this time of year basks in an average temperature of 25°C. It’s ideal weather for exploring the Pyramids of Giza, just a half-hour drive from the chaos of Cairo’s downtown. Tempted to take a boat trip down the Nile? Resist the big cruises, which are notorious for pollution, and opt for a small group sailing excursion on a traditional felucca instead.

Where to stay: At one of Cairo’s most prestigious hotels; the Nile Ritz-Carlton or the The St. Regis Almasa .

Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon, USA

Temperature: 21°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT-8

There's nothing more dazzling than the firework-bright lights of The Strip at night. Nothing more tempting than the red and black flashes of a spinning roulette wheel. Nowhere more excessive, high-octane and brilliantly bonkers than here. And what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Then get the hell out of Vegas on a road trip from here down to New Mexico, through the canyons of Utah via the awesome Grand Canyon. Many national parks have Native American reservations nearby: an area allocated to indigenous people removed from their ancestral lands to make way for the park. If possible, visiting these reservations with a community guide is a great way to learn about the landscape’s history and support their economy. In the Grand Canyon, it’s possible to hike down from the rim into the remote Supai village, home to the Havasupai tribe for more than 1,000 years. Here there’s a campground, lodge, store and café – attempting to hike in and back within a day is not encouraged – but you must reserve in advance to enter.

Where to stay: At Resorts World Las Vegas , the first new resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip in more than a decade.

Temperature: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT-5

Time’s running out to get to Cuba before it’s changed forever. The big resorts haven’t got to all the beaches yet, and Havana still has that rickety, time-warp romanticism going on – but for how long? Warm and sunny November is the ideal time to swing by before crowds fill out December to February. The silver lining? A fast-evolving boutique bar and hotel scene, catering to a more sophisticated traveller: in Havana, the colonial-cool of Twenties-era Casa Habana, or cocktails at 304 O’Reilly, a toy warehouse turned gin bar. Make time to escape to the Caribbean shores of Holguín, where you’ll find small, thatched, barefoot beach hotels with not a hint of a package deal.

Where to stay: Beach-front Villa Maguana is set in the Guantánamo Province of Cuba.

Temperature : 18°C high; 5°C low Season: dry Flight time from UK: 22 hours Time difference : GMT-4

A wild frontier, Patagonia is the vast and empty tip of South America . For every photogenic massif and glacier, there’s about a million more miles of desolate, scrubby steppe. Finding the glimmering diamonds in the rough is half the satisfaction, though: Welsh tea shops, teal lakes and crackling glacial tongues in Argentine Patagonia; then puma-tracking safaris and unforgettable treks in Chilean Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park, accompanied by the unearthly trio of granite peaks that give this rugged wonder its name. Mid- September to early May is the established season; December to February bring hiking hordes. Nip in during November when mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventure and spring’s a-blooming. Torres del Paine rewards the effort with several polished overnight options: try the geodesic domes of EcoCamp, or lakeside five-star humdinger Explora, which has views you’ll struggle to believe However, due to a lack of rules around land sales, large swathes of Patagonia have been bought up and turned over to either heavy industry or unscrupulous developers. This isn’t just bad for the natural landscape, but also for the Indigenous peoples for whom this environment is sacred. Make sure to visit national parks and local communities so that your money goes towards the right people and projects. Tour operators such as BlueGreen Adventures employ regional guides and source from locally owned businesses.

Where to stay: The Lodge at Valle Chacabuco is the smartest stay in Parque Patagonia.

Above: Lake Pehoé, Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile.

Temperature: -20°C low; -4°C high Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT-8

“There are no guarantees in life but elk and taxes,” says the Yukon tourist board — but the chances of catching the Northern Lights in this Canadian hinterland are comfortably high. That’s because it’s such a stark wedge of territory — tundra and forests, lakes and mountains, the same size as Spain but home to just 40,000 hardy locals — creating ideally remote, unpolluted conditions for watching those elusive lights dance across the sky. November is considered the beginning of aurora season in most destinations, with some Scandinavian spots not fully open until December, but the Yukon’s nightly shows start as early as August. Still, with enough snow for days of dog-sledding, temperatures have yet to plunge to the fearsome depths of January and February (averaging -22C).

Where to stay: Tagish Wilderness Lodge is in a prime spot for viewing the northern lights. As are the glass chalets at the Yukon River Valley’s Northern Lights Resort & Spa .

Above: Aurora Borealis over the city of Whitehorse, with Gray Mountain and shooting star, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada.

Temperature: -1°C high; -15°C low Season: summer Flight time from UK: 19 hours Time difference: From GMT-3 to GMT+12, depending on the area

Where better than the Great White South for a wintry getaway? Snowscapes don’t get more epic than Antarctica ’s, a bright-white wilderness so pure, you’d swear it’s CGI. A trip to the end of the world is far from barren, though. Keep busy gaping at far-off, frosted summits and colossal, mint-blue icebergs; snapping breaching orcas and stumbling penguins; not to mention getting jelly-legged on homemade Ukrainian vodka at the world’s southernmost pub. Expedition boats visit the peninsula November to March, when the Antarctic summer makes penetrating pack ice possible (temperatures hover around a toasty 1C). Landings get progressively muddier and boot-blighted as the season wears on; find the freshest powder in November, the first time tourism touches the continent after a seven-month break. Just make sure your tour operator is registered with IAATO, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. Membership demands strict adherence to a code of conduct that is respectful of both the landscape and its wildlife.

Where to stay: At Whichaway Camp , on the edge of an ice lake – one of the most exclusive places to stay on the planet.

Colorado, USA

Temperature: 14°C high; -5°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 10 hours Time difference: GMT-7

In the likes of California , Arizona and Texas , the dusty desert cities have gone hipster; in Colorado, its cute little mountain towns are wending the same way. Telluride’s Victorian streets are now packed with fancy tacos, craft cocktails and bespoke ski shops; Boulder has bicycle cafés with taprooms and espresso bars; Aspen is still Aspen, glamorous and pricey, and resolutely on-trend (farm-to-table restaurants, speakeasies). High up in the Rockies , ski season has started, the towns have recovered from summer madness, but the December masses are yet to invade.

Where to stay: Dunton Hot Springs is a former ghost town and natural hot spring that sets the bar for glamping.

Above: Longs Peak, Longmont, Colorado.

Seoul, South Korea

Temperature: 12°C high; 2°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours Time difference: GMT+8

Seoul is an exciting city break with just the right mix of ease and exoticism: transport and general infrastructure are both exemplary, and there are also enough Confucian temples and dog cafés to keep a curious foreigner on their toes. South Korea ’s flourishing economy has made its capital a hi-tech, high-design hub, positively pulsing with dynamic and fashionable youth culture. But the remnants of more austere and traditional times remain: cobbled streets and classic architecture , eccentric flea markets and scent-filled street-food alleys. November’s autumn colours make perfect portraits of Seoul’s many parks and hiking trails, while mild temperatures and low rainfall create a sweet spot for pavement-pounding (summer is wet and humid, the winter frigid).

Where to stay: The Shilla Seoul is a flawless blend of East and West.

Above: Changdeokgung, South Korea.

Andalucia, Spain

Temperature: 20°C high; 10°C low Season : autumn Flight time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT+1

November is a wonderful month for a short break in southern Spain, when the summer crowds have gone home and it's still T-shirt weather. Cádiz is a charming place, hanging off the edge of Spain, bleached white and with the sound of flamenco in the air. A hip new hotel scene is putting Seville in the limelight but still both cities are quieter than touristy Granada and Córdoba. Beyond Marbella's beach clubs, head out to the Sierra de las Nieves national park to go swimming in natural rock pools and kayaking on the dam. Málaga has carved itself a new reputation, with an offshoot of Paris' Pompidou Centre, a glassy cube on the dockside, joining The Picasso, Carmen Thyssen and Contemporary Art museums.

Where to stay: Hacienda Finca Cortesin is one of Europe's smartest places to escape to. For more, see our guide to the best haciendas in Andalucia, Spain .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Temperature: 25°C high; 17°C low Season: spring Flight time from UK: 13 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT-4

STEAK! TANGO! WINE! FOOTBALL! SHOES! Yes, Buenos Aires is the indisputable heartland of red meat, and red wine (don't tell the French). It's a colourful place: leafy in the north, with faded townhouses fronting beautiful Italianate façades in the south and bright and bold houses in La Boca near the old port. In San Telmo, the rhythm of tango is unmistakable. And the barrio of Boca is so crazy about football even the houses are painted in home colours. But it's a little-known fact that the Argentine city also has some of the best shopping in the world now that creatives are setting up on their own and opening concept stores in Palermo's crumbling casonas.

Where to stay: At timeless, belle époque Palacio Duhau .

Temperature: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: autumn Flight time from UK: 11 hours 55 minutes Time difference: GMT+7

November is a great month to go to Hong Kong. It's not too steamy for sundowners in one of the rooftop bars overlooking Victoria Harbour, which lights up at 8pm every night for a light show; or for moseying around Chinatown. Foodies are spoilt for choice here, but make like the locals at street-food stalls in Wan Chai. Shopping and art are big business too. What's surprising, though, is the choice of beautiful beaches and hiking trails on surrounding islands such as Lantau and Lamma.

Where to stay: At swish Rosewood Hong Kong , right on the city's harbour.

Temperature : 31°C high; 20°C low Season : winter Flight time from UK: 7h Time difference : GMT +3

November is the start of proper winter in the UK, so you can’t be blamed for craving a dose of serious sunshine. Dubai is a clever contender – far enough away that the weather is almost guaranteed to be perfect but close enough to home that you won’t be struck down with jet lag for the entirety of your stay. Of course, there are glitzy hotels and beach clubs drawing in visitors. But there’s a lesser-known side to the city, too – some of our favourite things to do in Dubai include having supper in the desert at Sonara, where wood-fired pizzas and cocktails are served among the dunes and the opportunity to go on a desert safari, with Platinum Desert Safari.

Where to stay: Book into new opening Atlantis the Royal – a bells-and-whistles stay that bills itself as “the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world”.

Temperature : 18°C high; 12°C low Season : autumn Flight time from UK: 14h 25m Time difference : GMT +8

Spring in Japan gets a lot of airtime. But for those in the know, autumn is every bit as beautiful as the trees flame into burnt orange and glorious red hues. In the capital, spend days hopping between Tokyo’s best restaurants and art galleries before catching one of the super-efficient trains to Kyoto, where the temples are surrounded by beautiful autumn foliage, or Osaka, where you can visit beautiful landscapes such as Minoo Falls. Just north of Tokyo, Nikko has World Heritage-listed temples and widescreen views of burnished gold and orange.

Where to stay: There are big hitters in Tokyo such as the Aman and the Mandarin Oriental . Try the Ace in Kyoto , or book the St Regis Osaka , which is spread across the top 16 floors of a skyscraper.

Stockholm, Sweden

Temperature : 6°C high; 2°C low Season : winter Flight time from UK: 2h 40m Time difference : GMT +1

This is not the destination for a blast of sunshine and heat. But it can't be denied that some cities are simply better in winter . Toward the end of the month, you might get snow – and the city looks especially lovely when dusted with a frosting of white. You can eat at some of the world's best restaurants , such as Frantzen if you're planning to splash the cash, and you'll also find some of the best bars in the world here, too . Lucy's Flower Shop is set in the basement of a centuries-old building and serves up some of the city's best cocktails.

Where to stay: Ett Hem is an ultra-stylish townhouse hotel that's been drawing discerning travellers since 2012.

The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in November

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As the leaves transform into a tapestry of golden hues and the crisp chill of fall fills the air, Europe transforms into a captivating playground in November . Whether you want to hold onto the last warmth of summer or get a head start on the festive season, Europe is an incredible place to explore at this time of year.

The best places to travel in Europe in November offer a unique charm all their own, with fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and a dazzling backdrop of fall foliage. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the historic streets of ancient cities, Europe beckons you to savor its beauty during one of the most stunning seasons of the year.

To help you put together the most incredible fall trip, we’ve created a list of the best places to visit in Europe in November. These spectacular destinations invite you to immerse yourself in rich culture, discover unprecedented culinary delights, and be awe-struck by breathtaking landscapes. From enchanting medieval cities and achingly beautiful beaches to centuries-old market towns and otherworldly national parks, you’re sure to find your perfect getaway here! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in November

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Places to Travel in Europe in November

1. dubrovnik, croatia.

When it comes to fascinating cities that are just begging to be explored, Dubrovnik is one of the best places to visit in Europe in November. This month is considered to be the off-peak season, which means there’ll be fewer visitors than during the bustling summer months. But the weather is still relatively mild at around 50°F to 63°F (10°C to 17°C), creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. 

Although it’s likely too cold for a day at the beach, you can still enjoy the city’s stunning coastline and wander around the harbor. For the best sea views, step back in time and walk along Dubrovnik’s medieval walls. From up here, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. 

If the weather gets a little too chilly for you, pop into one of the many cafes in Old Town. Dubrovnik has a thriving cafe scene, with locals spending literally hours sipping coffee and chatting. 

Cogito Coffee Shop is one of our favorites. Although there’s only a small number of benches outside, the coffee here is too good to pass up!

2. Zante, Greece

With an average temperature ranging between 59°F and 68°F (15°C and 20°C), the island of Zante may be just warm enough for a dip in the ocean at this time of year. If you don’t mind a little chill (or better still, you wear a wetsuit), you can head over to Navagio Beach and snorkel or scuba dive around an ancient shipwreck.

This beach is one of the most popular attractions in Zante. But since November falls within the quiet season, you won’t have to share it with hordes of other visitors. 

You can only reach the beach by boat, so the best way to get there is to sign up for a guided tour . This adventure gives you the chance to snorkel around the shipwreck as well as go swimming in the Blue Caves, another one of Zante’s spectacular attractions.

November is also an excellent time to take advantage of the cooler weather and go hiking. The trail that takes you to the top of Mount Skopos is one of the best. It’s around 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) long, depending on the exact starting point, and takes you past the charming Church of Panagia Skopiotissa and through aromatic pine forests.

3. Nice, France

Centrally located in the heart of Nice , Marche Aux Fleurs is a wonderful place to go shopping in November. This lively market is open every day of the week (except Mondays) and sells a huge range of plants and freshly cut flowers. But that’s not all.

A wonderful place to pick up a souvenir or gifts for friends and family back home, the bustling market is also home to artists selling paintings and jewelry and farmers selling artisan goods like lavender honey and seasonal marmalades. 

The iconic Promenade des Anglais that lines the Mediterranean Sea is usually one of the busiest parts of Nice. But in November, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade and dip your toes in the water without fighting for space. 

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can explore Nice’s many museums, galleries, and indoor attractions. The Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum are two of the best!

4. Plitvice National Park

Hvar is one of the best places to go in Europe in November if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors. This captivating city remains lush and green at this time of year, thanks to the cooler weather and occasional rainfall. The landscapes are dazzlingly vibrant, making November a great time for nature walks, hikes, and exploring the island’s scenic beauty.

The Plitvice National Park is one place you should definitely explore in November. It’s famous for its 16 interconnected, crystal-clear lakes that tumble into one another through a series of waterfalls. These stunning lakes and waterfalls are created by the natural deposition of limestone, which results in constantly changing rock formations.

You can spot all kinds of plant and animal species here. During your visit, be on the lookout for everything from beech and fir forests to deer, bears, wolves, and a huge number of different bird species.

5. Rock of Gibraltar

Like many places in Europe, November is considered to be the shoulder season in Gibraltar. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, you’re free to explore the historic attractions, golden beaches, and tourist landmarks without the hassle of crowds.

Visiting the famous Rock of Gibraltar is an absolute must during your vacation. In November, the temperatures are around 61°F to 68°F (16°C to 20°C), making them perfect for hiking to the top. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and even catch a glimpse of North Africa across the Strait of Gibraltar.

For many people, the highlight of the Rock of Gibraltar is the Barbary macaques that live there. This is the only wild monkey population in Europe, made up of around 200 to 300 adult and infant macaques. 

Want to see even more local wildlife? Sign up for a boat trip through the Strait of Gibraltar . On this 90-minute adventure, you’re almost certain to see up to three species of dolphin that call this part of the ocean their home.

6. Sardinia, Italy

There are loads of amazing fall festivals celebrated all over the place in Europe at this time of year, and the Autunno in Barbagia Festival is one of the most spectacular. This one-of-a-kind, culturally rich event takes place in various towns and villages throughout the Barbagia region of Italy during the weekends of October and November.

Each town and village has its own unique program of events, which changes every year. Orgosolo, Oliena, Dorgali, and Mamoiada are known for their reliably amazing event line-ups, so you should definitely check them out if you’re nearby.

The festival as a whole showcases the traditions, crafts, music, and gastronomy of this rugged and beautiful area in the heart of Sardinia. Here, you’ll have the chance to buy handwoven textiles, witness traditional Sardinian singing and dancing, try all kinds of local gourmet specialties, and see original artwork created by local artists. Some villages even organize guided tours through the most important cultural and historic sites.

7. Budva, Montenegro

Budva, a charming coastal town in glamorous Montenegro, is one of the best places to travel in Europe in November if you want to soak up the last of the summer sunshine. Although November is at the end of the fall season, this peaceful town still enjoys mild temperatures of around 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). When the air is still and the sun is shining, these pleasant temperatures can feel blissfully warm.

If you’re dreaming of lazy beach days, head to one of the town’s many spectacular beaches. Slovenska Beach is one of the most popular, although it will be wonderfully peaceful in November when there are hardly any tourists around. This beach is located next to the Old Town and is lined by beachfront cafes and restaurants.

For something a little more remote, check out Mogren Beach. Just a short walk away from Old Town through a tunnel, this gorgeous bay is nestled between cliffs and is known for its dramatic setting and crystal-clear waters.

8. Tenerife, Canary Islands

With average temperatures of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), the Canary Islands are the warmest European vacation destination in November. This makes them an excellent choice if you’re seeking some guaranteed sunshine!

Tenerife is the archipelago’s most developed island, home to a number of golden sandy beaches made with sand imported from the Sahara Desert. Hidden away from the tourist resorts of the south, Playa Las Teresitas is the most stunning and stretches on for around one mile (1.6 kilometers).

If you’d prefer something more natural, there are plenty of volcanic beaches, too. Playa de Benijo on the northern coast and Playa de El Bollullo, close to Puerto de la Cruz, are two of our favorites!

Tenerife has a lot more to offer than pretty beaches. For a unique experience, head inland to the Mount Teide National Park and hike to the top of the volcano. 

If you’re not up for multiple hours of hiking, you can ride the cable car almost to the peak and walk the rest of the way. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sensational views that stretch across Tenerife and all the way to other Canary Islands.

9. Berat, Albania

For a cultural experience, make plans to visit Berat in Albania . Every year on November 28, this riverside city comes to life with Albania’s Independence Day celebrations. Festivities often begin with the raising of the Albanian flag, followed by a lively parade with locals dressed in traditional Albanian clothing marching through the streets accompanied by traditional music.

People come out in huge numbers to watch the parade, all waving Albanian flags. The evening is filled with live music concerts performed by famous Albanian musicians as well as international artists. The next day is all about culture, and a number of museums, cinemas, galleries, and theaters offer free entry to visitors so they can discover more about Albania and the country’s customs.

Albanian Independence Day isn’t the only reason to visit Berat at this time of year. November brings the fall season to the city, and the surrounding landscapes, including the Osum River Valley and the Berat Castle Hill, are adorned with beautiful autumn foliage. The scenery is particularly stunning, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography and leisurely strolls.

10. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the best places to go in Europe in November when it comes to food and drink. A foodie’s dream come true, this Italian island celebrates the Saint Martin Festival on November 11 each year with all kinds of delicious events.

Wine is the centerpiece of the festival. Local wineries and vineyards often open their doors to visitors, offering wine tastings of their newly produced wine, including the young and fresh “novello” wine. This is a light, fruity wine that is not aged for long and is meant to be consumed shortly after fermentation.

The Saint Martin Festival also typically features an array of traditional Sicilian dishes and street food for hungry visitors to try. Seek out food stalls and kiosks for the opportunity to try local delicacies, such as arancini (rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and a huge range of different pasta dishes.

As well as the food and wine aspects, the festival also includes colorful parades, live music, folk dances, artisan markets, and grape harvest rituals.

11. Kyrenia, Cyprus

For the chance to visit a fairytale destination, head straight for the castle in Kyrenia on the northern coast of Cyprus . Also known as Girne Castle, this historic fortress is one of the island’s most iconic and well-preserved landmarks, offering a fascinating insight into Cyprus’s long and varied history.

As November is one of the quietest times of the year for Kyrenia, you’ll practically have the whole castle to yourself! This means you’ll get loads of amazing shots of the castle’s inner and outer walls, towers, and chambers without strangers in them. 

The castle’s prestigious elevated location also means it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and the coastline. Make sure you take the time to check them out! 

Not only is November an excellent time to explore attractions that are usually packed with visitors, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to sample local dishes and ingredients. This month marks the olive harvest season in Cyprus, and you can savor freshly pressed olive oil and traditional Cypriot dishes featuring seasonal ingredients!

12. Monte Carlo, Monaco

If you’re planning on traveling in the second half of November, you’re just in time for the Jazz Festival in Monte Carlo. This cultural extravaganza has been celebrated for decades and features world-renowned jazz musicians and performers from all over the world taking to the stage to show off their incredible skills. 

The festival usually takes place at the iconic Opera Garnier Monte-Carlo, an opulent and historic venue known for its stunning architecture and acoustics. This ornate opera house provides an elegant setting for the musical performances.

While jazz is at the heart of the festival, the program often includes a wide range of jazz styles and influences, from traditional and smooth jazz to fusion and experimental jazz. So whether you’re a huge jazz fan or you don’t really know much about it, you’re sure to come across a performance you absolutely love. 

When you’ve had your fill of jazz, discover the rest that Monte Carlo has to offer. Consider trying your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino, wandering through the stunning Japanese Gardens, and visiting the historic district of Monaco-Ville.

13. Menton, France

If you’re dreaming of dining al fresco, being surrounded by architectural gems, and enjoying the serenity of beautiful botanical gardens, Menton is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Europe in November. 

At this time of year, the temperature ranges between 57°F and 66°F (14°C and 19°C), which can be wonderful when the sun is shining and the air is still. Menton enjoys a fabulous location on the Côte D’Azur of France – one of the most stunning and sophisticated parts of the country. With multi-colored buildings perched over the sea, a snow-dusted mountain backdrop, and a chic harbor filled with luxury boats, this part of the country is alluring all year round.

Menton’s dazzling Boulevard de Garavan, which lines the coastline, is dotted with sensational Mediterranean restaurants. There’s nothing like digging into freshly caught fish and sipping French wine while watching the sunset. 

While Menton’s waterfront promenade may be the main attraction, the city boasts a wealth of architecturally stunning landmarks steeped in history. Check out the magnificent baroque Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, adorned with 17th-century art. And make sure you pay a visit to the tranquil Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden, which is home to stunning plants and flowers, even in November.

14. Porto, Portugal

Watching the sunset from the Luís I Bridge in Porto is a magical experience that captures the essence of this elegant city along the Douro River. As the day draws to a close and the sun begins its descent, the Luís I Bridge becomes one of the best places in the city for witnessing nature’s breathtaking spectacle.

From its lofty location, the bridge offers a panoramic view of the city’s enchanting skyline. Here, you can see the historic Ribeira district and its labyrinth of colorful buildings that reflect the warm hues of the setting sun. The river itself shimmers in golden and orange tones as it winds its way through the city.

After sunset, continue your evening with a stroll along the Ribeira waterfront and seek out somewhere for dinner. Terreirinho Restaurant is one of our favorites. 

Located just one street back from the river, this sensational restaurant boasts an amazing decor with stone walls, timber ceilings, and fine wooden staircases. You can choose from a huge range of Portuguese small plates to nibble and share.

15. The Azores, Portugal

During the summer months, the Poca da Na Dona Beija hot springs are filled with a huge number of locals and visitors, all eager to soak in the therapeutic mineral waters. By November, the crowds have significantly thinned, meaning you can enjoy all the healing benefits of the water without the crowds.

Poca da Dona Beija is made up of a series of natural thermal pools, each with its own unique temperature and mineral composition. The warm water in these pools comes from underground volcanic springs and is renowned for its therapeutic properties. As well as the mineral pools, the natural site features a number of small waterfalls, and the sound of flowing water adds to the ambiance and relaxation.

When you’re surrounded by towering palm trees and tropical flowers, you’ll feel more like you’re on an exotic Caribbean island instead of a peaceful island in the Azores!

There you have it! The 15 best places to visit in Europe in November. What’s your favorite European destination to travel to in November?

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our favorite travel books!

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Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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27 Great Places To Visit In Europe In November [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 72 mins read
• Post last modified: February 9, 2024
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November doesn’t have to be the least attractive month to travel to Europe. Indeed, there are still so many destinations you can visit and have an  even better experience  than in the summertime. The weather will still be nice, and you can enjoy European destinations with  fewer crowds .

As a world traveler, I’ve traveled extensively in Europe, even in November . So, I’ve made a list of the best places you can visit, whether for the Thanksgiving holidays or a short gateway before Christmas .

Below, I present you with the 27 best places to visit in Europe in November. Pick your favorite one and  plan your journey based on your interests .

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

List Of The 27 Great Places To Visit In Europe In November

Let’s jump right into the list of the best places you can visit in November. You might not think, but you’ll enjoy plenty of stunning places at this time of the year.

To make it easier for you, I’ve divided the list into the warmest places, the best European cities to visit, the cheapest places, and spots for the best adventure in Europe in November. So check them out.

Here is the list of all 27 best European places to visit in November , including a map .

• Canary Islands
• Greek Islands
• Monte Carlo
• Swiss Mountains
• Ride Swiss Panoramic Trains (Zermatt)

Map Of The Best European Places To Visit In November

Is November A Good Time To Visit Europe?

Certainly, November is a great time to visit Europe , but you must choose the right destination. The weather might be gloomy in some parts of Europe, so use this list of the best places as a guideline to choose the perfect destination for you.

Europe in November is much less crowded than any other time. It also means prices drop , especially for accommodation, so you can enjoy a cheap gateway .

Where To Go In Europe In November For Warm Weather

If you’re looking to visit warm places in Europe in November, make your way to the following regions :

✅ The Balkans ✅ Mediterranean ✅ Canary Islands

The Balkan countries such as Albania and Greece still have warm weather in November. While it might rain more often than in the summer, you can still go to the beach and enjoy swimming. So think about visiting.

• Ksamil (Albania)
• Saranda (Albania)
• Greek Islands such as Santorini, Milos, Mykonos, or Crete

The Mediterranean has a fantastic climate that attracts visitors even in November. The best places to visit in the Mediterranean in November are:

• Algarve (Portugal)
• Costa del Sol (Spain)

PRO TIP: The warmest places in Europe in November are the Canary Islands . Temperatures range between 20°C/68°F and 23°C/73°F. It’s still a great time to go swimming, and the water temperature is around 22°C/71°F.

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Warmest places to visit in europe in november.

I assume many of you look for warm places when the cold comes to your homes, wherever you are. So, if you want to visit Europe at this time of the year and enjoy a beach vacation or mild temperatures , these are the places I recommend you visit.

1. Canary Islands

The Canary Islands is the warmest place in Europe in November . If the purpose of your visit is warm temperatures, great beaches , and even some adventure , look no further. You’ll have a great time.

You can visit Grand Canaria if you want to enjoy beautiful beaches and go swimming. Besides, Tenerife offers great hiking trails , so you can experience some outdoor adventures, too. Hike up to Spain’s highest mountain, Teide (a volcano).

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE : 25°C/77°F RAINFALL: 3mm (around 0.5 day) per month

WHERE TO STAY: H10 Atlantic Sunset (Tenerife) & Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia (Grand Canaria)

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Tenerife: Dolphin & Whale Cruise With Snacks ➡ Grand Canaria: Catamaran Dolphin Watch Cruise With Snorkeling

2. Portimão

The Algarve in Portugal is another warm region you can enjoy in November. There are several places where you can stay, Portimão. It’s in the middle, so you’ll be close to the unique sights, such as the Carvoeiro boardwalk , Algar Seco , and Benagil Cave , to admire the most stunning rock formations.

Don’t miss out on visiting Praia Da Amorosa, one of the most beautiful Algarve beaches .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE : 22°C/72°F RAINFALL: 22mm (around 3 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Bengil Caves Speed Boat Tour ➡ Kayak Tour Of Benagil Caves

Málaga keeps its warm temperatures in November. You will enjoy lower prices and fewer tourist crowds , and you can still enjoy a beach vacation on the nearby Costa del Sol .

Visit some of the best resorts around Málaga to enjoy the sun and relax. Or go sightseeing in the city, make a day trip to Gibraltar , and taste delicious Spanish cuisine.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE : 20°C/68°F RAINFALL: 95mm (around 10 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Tandem Soho Suites

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Sunset Catamaran Trip ➡ Guided Tour To Caminito Del Rey

Albania has been trending lately. No wonder when I visited this beautiful country, I immediately had to spread the word about it and tell everyone to visit. And I’m telling you again – Albania is a hidden gem of Europe . So, put it onto your travel list now.

Ksamil is in southern Albania, known as the Caribbean of Europe . It has some of the most beautiful beaches on the continent, and it’s still warm and cheap in November.

It might rain a lot though, so check the weather forecast before visiting.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 19°C/66°F RAINFALL: 204mm (around 19 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Meta Ksamil

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Butrint National Park Visit ➡ Blue Eye Near Saranda

👉 READ ALSO: Epic Albania Road Trip: 1 – 2 Weeks In Albania & Tips

5. Greek Islands

This list couln’t be completed without mentioning our beloved Greece. Of course, Greece is on everyone’s bucket list. And you would make the best travel decision, putting your visit off for November.

It’ll be much cheaper and calmer . You can go for a beach vacation and visit the beautiful Greek Islands such as Rhodes , Santorini , or Milos .

Or stay on the mainland and enjoy it with my Greek road trip , visiting breathtaking places like Meteora.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 19°C/66°F RAINFALL: 60mm (around 5 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Antonoglou Beach Vilas (Rhodes Island) – Remezzo Villas (Santorini Island) – Sarantis Suites & Apartments (Milos Island)

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Rhodes: All-Inclusive Day Cruise With BBQ & Unlimited Drinks ➡ Santorini: Traditional Sightseeing Bus Tour With Oia Sunset ➡ Milos: Arhcaeology & Culture Tour

👉 READ ALSO: 8 Best Island Day Trips From Athens

Malta is often overlooked by travelers, but it’s a great alternative to the Canary Islands , which tend to be slightly more expensive. This small island in the Mediterranean offers warm weather all year round. As with other destinations, you’ll benefit from low November prices and fewer crowds.

Besides a great beach vacation, you can explore stunning sights around the island, such as the Blue Grotto and Gozo .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 20°C/68°F RAINFALL: 80mm (around 7 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Sally Port Suites

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Blue Lagoons, Beaches & Bays Trip By Catamaran ➡ Gozo Day Trip Including Ggantija Temples

Best European Cities To Visit In November

Do you fancy a city gateway in Europe? These are my favorite cities, especially at this time of the year. You’ll enjoy them more than in the summertime. It’ll be quieter and cheaper, and the weather is usually perfect.

Seville is hands down one of my top 3 favorite cities in Europe . It’s one of the cities where you can still walk around with light summer clothes. I visited it in December, and it was perfect.

The city has a rich history and culture , and you can admire three different ethnical districts: Christian, Muslim, and Jewish . It’s amazing how these three groups managed to live together.

Nowadays, you can see different architectural styles and enjoy the bustling streets with Spanish delicacies.

November is also a great time to make this  southern Spain road trip itinerary  and visit even more beautiful places in Andalusia.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 20°C/68°F RAINFALL: 66mm (around 6 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Casa Romana Hotel Boutique

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Guided Tour Of Seville ➡ Live Flamenco Dancing Show ➡ Tapas Crawl

Porto is my favorite city in Portugal. It has its vibe and culture that you have to experience. Bring a jacket as it might be windier in November. But you can always go for a glass of delicious dessert wine, Porto , to keep you warm.

Enjoy stunning culture or make a day trip to the Douro Valley and learn about the local wine production. There is so much to do and see.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 17°C/62°F RAINFALL: 150mm (around 15 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: São Domingos Residences

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Porto: 6 Bridges Douro River Cruise ➡ Douro Valley, Boat Tour, Wine Tasting & Lunch

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Portugal Itinerary 10 Days

9. Barcelona

Barcelona is always a good choice for a city gateway, no matter the time of the year. It attracts visitors all year round, and November is not an exception. I lived in the city for a year, and November was one of my favorite months .

It’s calm, yet many events are still happening. If you don’t know where to go, you’ll be amazed by Barcelona in November. It’ll give you a great mixture of sightseeing , delicious food and drinks, and you can even go swimming and spend some time on the beach.

Stay for three or more days and enjoy some of these road trips from Barcelona .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 18°C/64°F RAINFALL: 70mm (around 8 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: NH Collection Barcelona Grand Hotel Calderon

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket With Audioguide ➡ Park Guell Guided Tour With Ski-The-Line Ticket ➡ Casa Batlo Entry With Audioguide

10. Monte Carlo

Visit one of the smallest countries in Europe and its rich hub with the casino , Monte Carlo. If you want to enjoy a bit of luxury , go to Monaco . It’s still warm at this time of the year. You can make day trips to other parts of the French Riviera or spend a day on a yacht.

If you want to visit more stunning places on the Riviera, follow my French Riviera itinerary .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 16°C/60°F RAINFALL: 144mm (around 14 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Boutique Hotel Miramar

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Monte Carlo Hop-On Hop-Off Bus ➡ From Nice: French Riviera In 1 Days

11. Florence

Florence is one of my favorite cities in Italy. And November is a great time to visit it. While temperatures drop, the weather is still pleasant, and prices are significantly lower .

Make it your base and go for a small road trip around Tuscany . Visit local wineries and enjoy the misty mornings with breathtaking views.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 16°C/60°F RAINFALL: 133mm (around 13 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Relais Piazza Signoria

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Chianti Wineries Tour With Food & Wine Tasting ➡ Pasta Making Class With Tasting

Prague is amazing all year round. If you want to visit  Europe’s most beautiful city , this place should be your choice. Not only can you enjoy  cheap and delicious beer , it offers many stunning sights, from the Prague Castle to the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Astronomical Clock, and the main square.

One of the benefits is that you can already experience  Christmas Markets  at the beginning of December. So come at the end of November and wait for the markets to start on the 2nd of December this year.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 8°C/46°F RAINFALL: 180mm (around 17 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Pytloun Boutique Hotel Prague

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Sightseeing Dinner Cruise ➡ Prague Beer Spa

13. Helsinki

Helsinki doesn’t get a lot of pride, which is a shame. When I visited the city, I had the same feelings about this place on my first day. I thought, ough, this city is strange , with not many nice sights, what will I do here? But then I did a guided tour and… I changed my mind.

Helsinki is an exciting city and deserves more recognition. It’s all about the experiences. You can learn about the interesting history , taste local cuisine with tradition in the Restaurant Savotta , and warm up in the Finish sauna (I recommend Löyly ).

Besides, Fins are the happiest people in the world , so we have something to learn from them. Come visit Helsinki and hear stories from locals .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 4°C/39°F RAINFALL: 58mm (around 8 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Scandic Helsinki Hub

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Helsinki Sightseeing Canal Cruise ➡ Walking Tour With A Local Guide

14. Salzburg

Another city choice you can make as a traveler and can’t go wrong in November is Salzburg . This beautiful royal town will surprise you with its Fortress up on the hill with breathtaking Alps views .

You can also experience the Christmas Markets , one of the most beautiful in Europe . If you get colder, visit one of the Austrian cafes and sip hot chocolate with a traditional Sacher Cake .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 9°C/48°F RAINFALL: 109mm (around 10 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Sacher Salzburg

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Sound Of Music & Salt Mines Tour ➡ Mozart Fortress Concert & Dinner

15. Brussels

Speaking about sweets, you should visit Brussels. If you’re a foodie and want to enjoy a tiny European city, you’ll love the capital of Belgium. Come here and admire its beautiful Town Hall. Visit the Peeing Man and see whether he is dressed for a special occasion.

Stroll through the historical streets and try delicious chocolate pralines , waffles , and Fries .

You can also visit its beautiful Christmas Markets and buy souvenirs for your Christmas Tree.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 10°C/50°F RAINFALL: 67mm (around 6 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: OPO Hotel

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Walking Tour With Belgian Lunch, Chocolate & Beer ➡ Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop

Best Places For Adventure In Europe In November

If you’re looking for adventure and outdoor activities, these are the best places I recommend you visit. You can take your entire family if every member has different interests. These places offer a bit for everyone , not just for you, adventurous souls.

16. Swiss Mountains

I could spend my life in the Swiss mountains . It’s a great place to be even in November, but check out the weather forecast before visiting. It might be gloomy and rainy , and the first snow falls. But it’s one of the best places in Europe in November to enjoy nature and mountains.

Among the best mountains you should visit are Schilthorn , Glacier 3000° , Mt. Titlis , and Mt. Pilatus .

If the weather isn’t good, visit Jungfraujoch , the meteorological station and the highest train station in Europe.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: -5°C/23°F SNOWFALL: 76mm (around 7 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY : Belvedere Swiss Quality Hotel (Jungfraujoch & Schilthorn) – Hotel Des Alpes (Mt. Titlis & Mt. Pilatus)

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Jungfraujoch Roundtrip Tickets ➡ Schilthorn Roundtrip Tickets ➡ Mt Titlis Tour From Lucerne

👉 READ ALSO: Switzerland In November: Best Things To Do & See

Tromso is the best city in Norway you can visit in November and the wintertime . It’s like the city awakes in winter. Many excursions start to see the polar light or visit the Sami inhabitants in northern Norway.

Tromso is full of adventure in November, so choose some activities such as a Sami visit, polar light chasing, dog sledding, or a reindeer visit, and have fun in Norway.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 2°C/35°F SNOWFALL: 280mm (around 12 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Clarion Hotel The Edge

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ All Inclusive Northern Lights Chase Minibus Tour ➡ Reindeer Sled, Dinner, and Northern Lights Day Trip

18. Innsbruck

Innsbruck and its surroundings are a great place to visit in Austria. You can already go skiing in some resorts or visit the famous ski jump . It’s a nice city, so you can just stroll through its streets and learn about its history.

It’s also a great place for a wellness retreat in Austria . You can stay in the Aqua Dome with excellent wellness facilities and enjoy the mountain views from a hot pool or a sauna.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 9°C/48°F SNOWFALL: 88mm (around 6 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Aqua Dome (in Längenfeld)

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Patscherkofel Mountain Winter Hike ➡ Swarovski Crystal Worlds

19. Dolomites

The Dolomites, the Alps in northern Italy, are, in my opinion, the best place to go skiing in Europe . The skiing season starts in late November , and prices are still low.

So, if you can’t wait to go skiing, visit the Dolomites with stunning views and go skiing around Marmolada , make a famous Sella Ronda ski round, or enjoy thousands of perfect skiing slopes on Kronplatz .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: -2°C/28°F SNOWFALL: 130mm (around 12 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Bärenhotel

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Skiing In Kronplatz ➡ Sella Ronda Skiing

20. Lake Bled

It’s getting cold in November in Slovenia, but Lake Bled still has much to offer. Undoubtedly, it’s one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia. And even in November, you can still enjoy some of the best things to do in Lake Bled . Go Ziplining at Zipline Dolinka until the 20th of November.

Ride the traditional Pletna boat and eat delicious Kremšnita Cake from Bled.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 12°C/53°F RAINFALL: 170mm (around 17 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Park – Sava Hotels & Resorts

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Zipline Dolinka (open until 20th November) ➡ Pletna Boat Ride To Bled Island

21. Ride Swiss Panoramic Trains (Zermatt)

November in Switzerland  still offers some of the most stunning scenery,  colorful landscapes , and early foggy mornings. That makes it an exceptional time to do a  train adventure in Switzerland . Get a  Swiss Travel Pass  and travel by train across the country.

Hop on some of the best panoramic trains in Switzerland and admire the scenery from the comfort of your seat. I recommend the Glacier Express ride, starting in Zermatt and finishing in St. Moritz.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 4°C/39°F SNOWFALL: 170mm (around 17 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: La Couronne Hotel & Spa

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Glacier Express Ride

Cheapest Places To Visit In November In Europe

Lastly, these are the places to book your flight if you’re looking for a cheap gateway to Europe . Whether you want to experience a new culture and flavors, be somewhere warm and cheap, or learn about the history of a new place, these places will capture your attention.

Bari, located in Puglia , southeastern part of Italy, is another great city to visit in November. Temperatures are around 18°C , so it’s still warm, and the weather is pleasant. Besides, Bari is one of the cheapest places in Italy. So Bari would be a great choice if you want to enjoy history and eat delicious Italian food .

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 17°C/62°F SNOWFALL: 76mm (around 9 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Lullaby Room

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Bari By Boat With Aperitivo ➡ Bari Walking Street Food Tour

23. Bratislava

The capital city of Slovakia is often overlooked by travelers. I’m Slovakian and must say there are more beautiful places to visit than Bratislava. Ye, this city is a great and cheap gateway for November.

It’s just 1 hour by train or bus from Vienna . And it’s a small city, so you only need one day to experience a new culture.

Try local dishes in the Bratislava Flagship Restaurant , such as Bryndza Gnochi Gulash, and drink cheap beer. Or visit the Christmas Markets close to the Old National Theatre and go to the UFO restaurant for stunning views and drinks.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 8°C/46°F SNOWFALL: 52mm (around 6 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Devín

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Bratislava Craft Beer Tasting ➡ Bratislava By Sightseeing Bus

👉 READ ALSO: 20 Best Day Trips From Bratislava: With A Local

24. Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most unique cities that will capture your heart. Its lively streets are full of bazaars and stunning sights, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar, and Topkapi Palace, which will keep you busy for at least 3 days . It’s one of the best places to visit in November, because the weather is nice and there is so much going on.

Experience the atmosphere in local bazaars , including the world’s largest and first shopping center (Grand Bazaar). Enjoy Turkish tea culture , and try local specialties from Balik Ekmek in Eminou or delicious Baklava.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 15°C/59°F SNOWFALL: 60mm (around 6 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Catch Hotel Sultanahmet

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Istanbul Full Day Highlights Guided Tour ➡ Bosphorus Dinner Cruise With Private Table

👉 READ ALSO: Istanbul Street Food: 21 Best Turkish Street Foods & Places

25. Lake Ohrid

Lake Ohrid is another pleasant destination for a November gateway. This beautiful lake in North Macedonia attracts visitors thanks to its unique views , monasteries , rich history , and culture .

I recommend staying in Ohrid and exploring the lake from there. Make a round trip around, and you’ll even cross to Albania for a while.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 12°C/53°F SNOWFALL: 91mm (around 10 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Villa Veron

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Ohrid: Old Town Panoramic Boat ➡ Monastery Winery Tour & Wine Tasting

Colorful buildings , cute streets, and boutique shops? Gdansk in northern Poland is a beautiful city to visit in the colder month of November. It’s a great and cheap city gateway to experience something new.

Visit the Museum of WWII . Or make a half-day trip to the stunning Malbork Castle . I’m sure you’ll fall in love with the city.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 7°C/44°F SNOWFALL: 40mm (around 5 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Farma Residence Gdansk Old Town

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ Gdansk: City & History Walking Tour

27. Budapest

Budapest is one of the most beautiful historical places in Europe. Not only will you enjoy the views of its Parliament from the Buda part of the city and the castle. You can also warm up in the thermal baths in the city center.

Not to mention, Budapest hosts some of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets , starting in the middle of November. I’m sure you’ll fall in love.

AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 9°C/48°F SNOWFALL: 60mm (around 7 days) per month

WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Vision

TOP EXPERIENCES: ➡ City Highlights Evening Cruise With Drink ➡ Budapest Spa Full Day With Palinka

To help you plan your visit to Europe, I’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions. So, check them out below.

Which Country In Europe Is The Best To Visit In November?

The best country to visit in November in Europe is Portugal . It offers many things to do, so everyone will find activities to fit their interests. You can enjoy warm temperatures in the Algarve and relax on a beach.

Or you can go surfing , or explore its beautiful cities such as Porto, Lisbon, or Sintra and its palaces.

Which Part Of Europe Is Best To Visit In November?

Southern or Central Europe are the best parts to visit in November.

Southern Europe has warm temperatures , so you can enjoy its beaches in Portugal, Spain, Albania, or Greece, or make a city gateway and enjoy the rich history of the cities.

Central Europe and its cities start organizing Christmas Markets so you can enjoy the magical atmosphere, taste traditional food, and get into the Christmas mood. Some of the best Christmas Markets you can experience are in Budapest , Prague , Salzburg , and Norinberg .

Where Is The Warmest Place To Visit In Europe In November?

The Canary Islands (Tenerife & Grand Canaria) are the warmest place to visit in Europe in November. Temperatures range between 22°C to 25°C , and the water temperature is around 22°C . So it’s still a great time to swim and enjoy beach time.

Besides, you’ll benefit from less tourist crowds and lower prices at this time of the year.

Wrap-Up: 27 Great Places To Visit In Europe In November

These are the 27 best places to visit in November in Europe. There is something for everyone, so choose the place that best fits your needs and interests and book your flights. November might feel gloomy for some of us, or that boring month when everyone is just working and waiting for the Christmas holidays.

Don’t wait and have some fun while traveling Europe. It’ll make you happier and more fulfilled.

If you have any questions , you can always contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com , and I’ll gladly answer your questions. Or check out my favorite travel resources and plan by yourself.

Happy Travels!

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About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

TRAVEL ITINERARIES : Interested in more travel itineraries? Check out my Travel Itineraries Page .

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17 Best Places to Visit in Europe in November 2023

Visiting Europe at any time of year is a dream come true for any traveler; the trick is to include as many of the continent’s must-see attractions and sights as possible in your schedule.

In Europe, November marks the end of the fall season and the beginning of the season of preparation for the impending winter. You shouldn’t rule out a European city break in November just because it isn’t the most popular time to travel there. To begin with, you won’t encounter nearly as many people as you would in Europe during the summer.

Despite their perennial popularity, cities like Rome and Athens see far fewer tourists in November, making it an ideal time to explore them. The sweltering heat in the height of summer is another minus for getting around on foot but that won’t happen in November.

No matter what you’re looking for in a vacation spot, you’ll find it in one of the 15 best places to visit in Europe we’ve chosen below.

1. Lucerne, Switzerland

This little Swiss city is one of the most picturesque in all of Switzerland, thanks to its location on the northern shore of Lake Lucerne.

The town is pleasant in any month, but November is ideal for sightseeing since it is less busy and the weather is mild enough to explore the nearby mountains.

The medieval buildings and the famous Chapel Bridge in Lucerne have earned worldwide city renown.

2. Granada, Spain

Located at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Spanish city of Granada was the last Moorish stronghold in Europe.

The city’s Islamic architecture gives it a unique and exotic vibe. Visitors are initially drawn to the Alhambra, but the Nasrid Palaces and Generalife Gardens ultimately capture their hearts.

Visit the mosque in Cordoba, go hiking in the Alpujarras, or stroll along the old Caminito del Rey trail in November when the weather is mild enough for a day excursion out of the city.

3. Cyclades Islands, Greece

Many people consider Greece’s Cyclades the most visually striking Mediterranean islands. Santorini, with its breathtaking volcanic caldera; Paros, with its peaceful settlements; and Delos, with its ancient ruins, are all within easy boating distance from the mainland.

These islands are stunning all year round due to their natural beauty, but if you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is in November.

4. Emilia Romagna, Italy

The cuisine of the northern Italian region of Emilia Romagna is world-famous. Travelers with a penchant for Italian cuisine will find this to be a paradise on earth.

It is the birthplace of several well-known culinary treats, including many types of cheese, ham, pasta, and vinegar. Even Italians from other regions will agree that the food of Emilia Romagna is exceptional.

5. Barcelona, Spain

Summers in Barcelona may be hot and humid due to the city’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea. However, the most significant time to visit Barcelona, if you want to escape the heat and congestion, is in November, when the day’s temperature is mild and the evenings are cool.

You may go mushroom hunting, celebrate the harvest at the Chestnut Festival (La Castanyada), and attend cultural events like the Voll-Damm Jazz Festival of Barcelona , all of which take place in the fall.

6. Athens, Greece

November is one of the most significant times to visit Athens and perhaps all over the globe. Since the winter weather doesn’t start until December, the temperatures are still tolerable in early November, making it one of the warmest cities in Europe.

Because Athens is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, visiting in November could be the ideal strategy for avoiding the city’s “crowds.”

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

In November, a visit to Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is a trip to one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

It is the ideal starting point for an Icelandic winter trip, whether you want to relax in the Blue Lagoon or try the regional cuisine. November is a great time to visit since you may take refuge from the chill of winter in the lagoon’s warm waters.

8. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, the Hungarian capital, is one of Europe’s liveliest and least expensive cities.

Explore the beautiful historic district, unwind in a spa, and party the night away in this fantastic Eastern European metropolis.

November is packed with exciting events, from the St. Martin’s Day Wine Festival to a visit to the citadel, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the city from atop a hill overlooking the Danube and the heart of the city center.

9. Dublin, Ireland

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is one of the most attractive and historically significant European cities.

You may go to Trinity College to view the most well-known medieval manuscript in the world, which contains the four Gospels of Jesus Christ, take a tour of the Guinness Brewery, or engage in a whiskey tasting. You will definitely not get bored in November in Dublin.

10. Florence, Italy

This city is one of the most incredible places to visit in Europe, any time of the year. It has so much to offer in terms of culture, from artwork and architecture to trends and cuisine.

Traveling to this city is essential to sample the finest Tuscan cuisine and wine. You can spend the month of November window shopping and tasting delicious wine in the town that gave the world Gucci and Ferragamo.

11. Rome, Italy

November brings pleasant temperatures, making seeing the remains of the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and Colosseum more enjoyable.

Although there is never a dull moment when visiting the Vatican, November offers a respite from the heat and a chance to see the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums without having to fight through a throng of other tourists.

12. Belgrade, Serbia

To this day, Serbia is one of Europe’s least-visited countries, and its capital city, Belgrade, is mainly unknown to the general public. But there is a wide variety of fun things to do and see in this beautiful city throughout November.

Visit the charming cafés, traditional eateries, and bakeries in the Skadarlija Neighborhood for some authentic Serbian fare or try some of the country’s infamously potent rakija. But be careful, you can fall in love with Serbia.

13. Turin, Italy

The first capital of Italy is rich in history, culture, and delicious food that will please even the most jaded tourist.

Also, the weather in November is perfect for outdoor activities and makes this one of the top destinations to visit in Europe.

Hikers with experience may spend a day exploring the countryside and climbing mountains over 2,600 meters high, such as the Puta Quattro Sorelle, which is less than two hours away by train.

14. Vienna, Austria

If you want to see the end of autumn and the start of winter in Europe, you should go to Vienna, one of the world’s most pleasant towns, in November.

Belvedere Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Vienna State Opera are just a few of the stunning landmarks that call Vienna home.

15. Nice, France

The November weather in Nice is excellent for sightseeing without the swarms of tourists who arrive in summer.

Despite Nice’s many attractions, few visitors can resist the allure of a stroll down the Promenade des Anglais. This wide boulevard runs parallel to the glistening blue waters of the Mediterranean and Nice’s exotic beaches.

16. Gdansk, Poland

While most tourists to Poland prefer to travel to Krakow or Warsaw, Gdansk has much to offer in the fall.

Small and picturesque Gdansk is a port city on the Baltic Sea in northern Poland. This city will captivate you with its delicious Polish cuisine, pretty seasonal markets and colorful architecture.

You can spend a romantic evening in one of the pretty seaside restaurants, and nearby Sopot has a thriving nightlife. Although Gdansk may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of a vacation in Poland, it is undoubtedly a fantastic one.

Gdansk is also a three-city area. So there’s plenty to see and do between Gdansk, Sopot and Gdynia. All three are just a short train ride away from each other!

17. Asturias, Spain

Those who have visited Asturias in northern Spain consider it a hidden gem. It is a place known for its delicious local cuisine, refreshing wines, and the fantastic alcoholic cider known as “sidra.”

Asturias is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and November is the ideal month for a trip. With nice weather and no other people around, you can take a road trip.

There are many stunning and interesting places to visit in Asturias. On the outskirts of Oviedo, the capital of the state, is one of the most prominent cultural sites. This is a beautiful city with historic buildings, an active nightlife and medieval streets.

Visit Calle Gascona for the ultimate authentic Asturian evening. On both sides of the street, you will find local eateries. Inside, eateries compete with each other for the best regional cuisine, such as the hearty stew of meat and vegetables known as Fabada Asturiana.

Europe in November: Top 10 Best Destinations to Visit

Getting in Europe during the offseason has its perks. The best thing is that you won’t find many crowds and everything is cheaper in Europe in November , from hotel rooms to train tickets, tours, and flights.

If you are a culture vulture, fall brings the season of arts in Europe . In short, you may expect to get the taste of everything, from Italian pasta, French pastries, to the charm of cold mornings and historic architecture .

Though the well-known cities of Paris and London never miss the crowds, there are certain best places to visit in November in Europe. That is almost free from long queues for flight tickets and selfie-stick attacks during the offseason.

Table of Contents

What is the weather in Europe in November?

Well, the only concern when visiting Europe in November is that it gets colder sooner than the US and it could be wet and chilly most of the time. According to the European region or country you are visiting , the weather varies in Europe in November . On average, the temperature goes high up to 40 to 60 F and lowers than 30 to 50 F.

Expect freezing temperatures and snow in November in northern countries like Germany , Poland , and Scandinavia. If you have to visit Europe during this month and you don’t like chilly November, consider touring Southern Europe , where it is quite mild.

For example, the temperature goes up to 68 F (20°C) and down to 56 F (13°C) every day in November at Crete Island of Greece . You may also visit France , Southern Portugal , Spain , Croatia , and Italy in November as the temperature is relatively fine there.

❗️ Be insured before your trip and get a SafetyWing FREE insurance quote 📚 Read our post about why you should always have insurance ✈️ Find out how to find cheap flights using Skyscanner or find deals now 🛌🏻 Book your accommodation through Booking.com , Expedia , or Agoda 🎭 Find awesome and hassle-free tours through GetYourGuide or Tourradar 🚘 Explore the surrounding areas on an epic road trip with Auto Europe 📱 Read destination reviews and other traveler tips on TripAdvisor

1. Warsaw, Poland

If you have got around Poland , you may know that Warsaw has something different. Instead of being based on the old market square, the capital city is stretched over a vast area with rich architecture , modern steel, and glass, and a restored communist Gothic center.

This jumble is a sign of the rich history of the city. Warsaw has had the worst history and survived. It was almost destructed at the end of the Second World War.

Hence, it is a rich collection of landmarks, castles , and neighborhoods. Its excellent museums tell its complex story from the pleasures of Chopin’s music to the tragedy of the ghetto of the Jewish era.

Well, it is not all about history. The entertainment and restaurant scene in Warsaw is the best in Europe in November. You can dine affordably here on dishes from different parts of the world, and you can get around its lively bars and pubs.

2. Riga, Latvia

Riga in Latvia blends the ultimate cool and timeless tradition as the biggest metropolitan city in the Baltics. So, drop in and be energized in a town that has no lack of surprises on every rooftop and road. There is so much to offer in this Baltic blonde with a fiery soul.

You can find the signs of everyone from Swedish Kings to German knights and Soviet commissars over the past 800 turbulent years. The capital city is a lively European metropolis at the crossroads of northern and Eastern Europe .

As the timeless Gothic spires of Old Town mingle with serene facades of the luxurious Art Nouveau on the mighty boulevards, the astonishing skyline of Riga tells the story.

Riga is truly a UNESCO World Heritage site full of serene river views and cobblestones. It is also known as the Wi-Fi capital of Europe as it has around 1000 Wi-Fi spots to stay connected to the rest of the world for free.

Riga always welcomes the foodies as well. Central Market offers the trove of cheese, earthy sausages, smoked fish, black bread, and even more. Taste the goodness of those cuisines on a picnic in one of the serene parks of Riga, or savor the hearty meal in most of the cafes and bistro.

3. Stockholm, Sweden

It is one of the best places to visit in November in Europe. It is well regarded as the ‘beauty on water’ by the locals for a reason. It is dynamic, modern, and ever-growing, despite being a well-preserved historic attraction. It is not all about museums.

Getting to Stockholm is very easy in all ways. It is stretched over 14 different islands, but it is still very compact. You can easily cover the city while walking. Bridges connect most of the islands, and the rest of them are connected by the tunnelbana metro and ferries.

The public transport in this city is smooth, safe, and efficient, covering every corner of the town and its rustic surroundings. It is even accessible for wheelchair travel. Almost all signs are carved in English and Swedish. Almost every local here speaks near-perfect English.

Stockholm is also legendary in its sense of style. Spectacular fashion design is no longer a luxury here. Even a small coffee shop owner has excellent design sense, from designing its bowls, cups, and cutlery.

Related reads that may interest you:   Places to visit in Sweden ,  Day trips from Stockholm , and Palaces in Sweden

4. Porto, Portugal

Located on the banks of Rio Douro , Porto in Portugal is truly edgy yet opulent with its delicious food , rich history, and enticing wine, and friendly locals. Porto is well known for its subtle charms as well as nuances of its old port.

You will remember its calm moments of reflections and scenery of daily life for years to come. Porto’s skyline is flooded with distinctive stamps left by the modern architects along with the precious historic heart.

Porto is a truly vibrant and fascinating city that is becoming one of the well-regarded places to visit in Europe in November. The city is rich in impressive tourist attractions , vast history, fantastic tourist facilities, and lively nightlife. You can find a lot to see and do in this city, and the city will be appealing to a huge range of visitors.

Porto is a diverse and historic city, stretched from the narrow streets towards the historic Ribeira district to the mighty plazas. It is well regarded for making Port wine , which is still matured and stored in the huge cellars on the Douro River banks.

Read also: Things to do in Lisbon and Castles in Portugal

5. Sardinia, Italy

With its out-of-the-world beaches, wild hinterland, and amazing incredibleness, Sardinia in Italy is very captivating. The prehistoric puzzles, thrilling coastal drives, and four million sheep cover the roads. You don’t have to step off the European shores as it has some spectacular beaches . The sea is the bluest and sand is the whitest in hues.

Drop your anchor in the scalloped bays of Costa Smeralda where supermodels and celebs frolic in rich emerald waters, find seclusion in sheer cliffs, and play castaway on the coves of Golfo di Orosei, or sail along with the granite island clusters of La Maddalena.

Whether you lounge on the silky smooth bays of Costa del Sud or walk barefoot on the dunes of Costa Verde, it is sure that you will never like to go back.

Whether you choose country or coast, go fast or slow, Sardinia is one of the best European destinations in November for island adventures. The sea is honestly alluring, and divers can find impeccable shipwrecks while diving off the Cagliari’s coast.

Other awesome places to visit in Italy: Visit and check out the castles in Italy and the things to do in Rome , Venice , Florence , Bologna , and Pisa

6. Liechtenstein

The Principality of Liechtenstein is an alpine, small German-speaking nation sandwiched between Austria and Switzerland. It is the last ruin of the Holy Roman Empire and an independent country that has very close connections to Switzerland.

It houses some of the amazingly beautiful hilly scenery and a very high living standard. Vaduz, the capital of the principality, is a modern city and a leading center of international finance and commerce.

It is set amidst the hilly ranges which are rugged and rise steeply above the Rhine. It is one of the richest and smallest countries in the world and has its novelty value.

Liechtenstein is purely a fairy tale nation governed by the monarch, crowned by the castles , and embedded in the Alps deeply.

When it comes to its broadest point, it is just 12 km wide and 25 km long. You can get to this tiniest country by local bus from Austria or Switzerland as it doesn’t have any international airport. The most populated and western side of the nation is relatively flat in the Rhine Valley, and it is hilly in the east.

7. Innsbruck, Austria

The Tyrol’s capital, Innsbruck in Austria , is truly a sight to behold. The Nordkette range here is well known for the jagged rock spires which are 2000m above sea level.

And are too close to travel from the heart of the city and its alpine pastures. Some visitors just take a peek at Innsbruck before visiting the hills with lots of winter and summer activities.

The capital of the Alps is genuinely excellent and picturesque on the pulse of the city and nature at the same time. Located on the banks of River Inn, Innsbruck is a truly refreshing and vibrant city that combines urban, alpine, and historical elements differently and offers plenty of possibilities for travelers.

With the tranquility of nature all around, the city fascinates visitors with its long-back history and rich traditions are interwoven with gourmet restaurants, castles , and leading architects. It became the cultural and political hub in the 15th century.

8. Nice, France

If you believe Nice is best to visit in summer, you are wrong. Winters go adorable on the French Riviera . Nice is such a great winter resort and a perfect getaway from the dull winters anywhere else in Europe . You can enjoy a delicious lunch at Lido Plage, Beau Rivage, and Blue Beach.

They serve delicious food with Instagram-worthy views to make your friends jealous when they would like your vacation posts at their home.

Nice is full of locals rather than tourists, pleasant markets and museums. Italian hot chocolate is so thick you can enjoy it with a spoon, a cup of hot and spicy wine on the Ferris Wheel, and the waves in the winter storm. If you love skiing, you can take the Skibus to Valberg or different ski resorts to ski in various resorts every weekend.

Related read: Day trips from Nice and Castles in France

9. Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava will never let you down if you are getting there during winters as you will always come across a calm layer of snow and cold winds blow.

Early sunsets, plunging temperatures, and cold winds are the signs that you will get the complete flair of the holiday season.

No other time of the year sparkles with good cheer and traditions like Christmas . As the days shorten, the Christmas stalls make their presence felt in all of the central squares of Bratislava , to keep up with the age-old traditions.

Visitors to the capital city of Slovakia will find locals and tourists enjoying a bite of something sweet and mulled wine as they hear up for holidays. It has become the custom for office workers in Bratislava to enjoy lunch at market stalls at Christmas.

Here, you can meet the locals while tasting several local specialties to warm up your empty stomachs in the crisp air of winter. Some of the best cuisines you should try are the famous potato pancakes, lokse, prepared in various sweet and salty varieties.

And you can also try their hamburger-styled fried steak, cigánska pečienka served in bread folded pocket, with plenty of onion and mustard if you like.

10. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia in Bulgaria is a cool city you should visit in both summers and winters . Indeed, you will never be bored with different activities and things to do in the cold winter. The Weihnachtsmarkt is the cool Christmas market in Sofia that brings a smile to any visitor’s face. It will make you happy.

You can enjoy a lot of sweets, tasty drinks, and German wurst, along with many Christmas accessories and decorations. The Borisova Garden is well regarded as the largest open ice skating rink of the Balkans .

It is covered in fabric and is well placed in a very accessible and central place in Sofia . It is a great spot to have some fun with friends or family.

Do you know that Sofia is also one of the cheap destinations to visit in Europe ?

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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11 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November 2024 (By A European)

Looking for the ultimate places to visit in Europe during November?

This Guide has got you covered!

With its rich history, scenic beauty, and diverse cultures, it is a place that never ceases to amaze. No matter if you are looking for the most romantic spots or 3 weeks of European adventures , there is something for everyone.

November is an ideal time to visit Europe because there are usually fewer tourists. I live in Europe and think this is the best time to visit!

There are so many great places to visit in Europe all year round, but especially in November. But which are the best?

Let’s dive in and find the perfect European destination for you to visit in November, I’m sure there is one on this list that is perfect for you!

Planning A Trip To Europe? Use The Resources Below!

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► Local Tours – I Recommend Viator.Com

► Car Rental – I Always Use DiscoverCars.Com

► Insurance – Safetywing.com offers amazing options for travellers!

What is Europe like in November?

Europe is one of the destinations that are just magical all year round. What is even more special is how much the climate and landscape can change from country to country.

You probably want to know what Europe is like in November and to be totally honest, it depends on where you are.

There are plenty of destinations in Europe that offer the perfect winter wonderland, especially in November.

There are also lots of places that offer refuge from the cold and have sun-kissed beaches.

This guide to Europe in November is full of options for all types of travellers. So if you are looking for crisp winter walks, historic cities in the sun, the ultimate Christmas markets or somewhere else, there is something for everyone.

Is November a good time to go to Europe?

Absolutely!

Many people plan to explore Europe in November because travel is usually a bit cheaper. As this isn’t peak tourist season in Europe, you will find flights and hotels a lot cheaper.

There will also be so many fewer crowds in the spots you want to visit so November is a perfect time to visit Europe.

Those planning their trip to Europe during November often want to know what the weather will be like. And in all honesty, it depends. Europe has so many different climates and landscapes. Destinations like Portugal and Malta have great weather, all year round so you can expect some sunshine.

However, if you plan on visiting destinations like Wales and the UK, expect lots and lots of rain.

For your trip to Europe, you may be wanting a snow-filled winter escape or sunshine constantly. Not all the weather is the same across Europe. So keep this in mind when booking your November trip. There are so many wonderful places to visit in Europe in November for all types of travellers.

For city lovers and adventures, foodies and wine lovers , Keep reading this guide to find the ultimate destinations in Europe for your next trip.

11 Best Places to Visit in Europe in November :

To make the most of your Prague trip, these are the most popular experiences to book:

Without a doubt, Prague is one of the most magical places to visit in Europe in November. It’s my favourite city break any time of year but can get super crowded in the summer months.

With its cobbled streets, charming architecture and incredible views, this is one European destination everyone has to visit at least once. And In November, Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

If you’re looking for a romantic winter getaway with someone special, somewhere beautiful to explore with the family or you just want to escape from work or school, this is the perfect time to visit Prague.

One thing many travellers love about Prague is how easy it is to find amazing accommodation. From apartments to hotels, you will have so many options across the City. If you are looking for an amazing place to stay in Prague, Motel One Prague-Florentinum is the one for you!

Prague is also a great city-break destination to visit no matter your budget. You can easily keep your costs low here and still have the most amazing trip.

One of the best things to do in Prague is Walk over Charles Bridge. Not only is this completely free but offers the most amazing winter views over the City.

Make sure you add Prague to your places to visit in Europe in November for one of the Best city breaks Europe has to offer.

2. Amsterdam

To make the most of your Amsterdam trip, these are the most popular experiences to book:

Amsterdam and The Netherlands in general are one of the most amazing destinations in Europe that you can visit all year round . I live in the Netherlands and always visit Amsterdam during the winter months because it is so beautiful!

And with Amsterdam being one of the most popular Cities in Europe, it can get pretty busy. So if you want to avoid the summer crowds, the best time to visit is November.

Even though Amsterdam may not guarantee snow , it is still one of the most amazing cities to visit in Europe during winter for so many reasons.

Its endless canals, incredible food spots and out-of-this-world architecture make this the ultimate travel destination. You will also find that November is a fantastic time to visit Amsterdam and the rest of Europe as it is a lot cheaper.

I love how easy it is to explore other cities and European destinations from here too!

So finding a good hotel in Amsterdam without spending a fortune should be pretty easy. One of the best Hotels to stay in is The INK Hotel .

There will be endless places for you to visit in Amsterdam during your November trip. One of the best things to do is an evening cruise of the canals . The City looks so magical all lit up and is so worth doing. You will find plenty of companies that offer this around the City.

For those who want to explore more of The Netherlands and still be close to Amsterdam, take the 20-minute train to Haarlem . This is such a great area to visit and has half the crowds of Amsterdam.

The best place to stay in Haarlem is the Bambu Hotel . You can’t get more central if you tried and the staff are super friendly!

3. Cornwall

To make the most of your Cornwall trip, these are the best experiences to book:

When most people visit the UK, London is at the top of the list. But if you are looking for a destination you will completely fall in love with, visit Cornwall. When I lived in the UK, Cornwall was one of my top destinations to go for a beach getaway or somewhere relaxing to take my dog.

I may sound slightly biased, but this is one of the best destinations in Europe during November for cold coastal walks and rustic pubs. Filled with some of the best places to eat in the Country and the most friendly locals, Cornwall has it all.

As Cornwall has a lot to offer and so much to see, if you get a chance, get in a car and do a Cornwall Road Trip . This is the best way to see what the area truly has to offer and to get a peak at those more remote locations.

There are so many places to stay in Cornwall. From pet-friendly cottages to sea-front apartments. For the best places to stay all over Cornwall, this Where to Stay in Cornwall Guide is perfect.

It includes the best locations all over Cornwall to stay, depending on what you want out of your trip.

Cornwall probably isn’t one of the first places you think of visiting in Europe in November. However, it has so much to offer whoever visits there. Cornwall is one of the most picturesque places in the UK too, so don’t forget your camera!

To make the most of your Athens getaway, these are the best experiences to book:

I love a destination that has pretty good weather all year round. It makes it so much easier to pack and plan your trip!

And without a doubt, Athens is one of the best places to visit in Europe during the winter For travellers looking for a warmer place to explore, that is full of history and fantastic food, Athens is a great spot.

The weather is mild and sunny, making it a great destination for those wanting a warm winter trip. I visited here during November and the weather made it so much more enjoyable!

You will also find that Athens has plenty of amazing places to eat all around the City, as well as plenty of historical things to do and see. One of the best things to do in Athens is book a tour of the City .

Having a local show you around the historical sites that are probably not included in the guidebooks will make your November adventure around Athens even better!

Athens is also a really popular place to base yourself if you want to visit other parts of Greece . So if you’re looking for a fun winter getaway in Europe that has so much to offer, Athens is the place for you!

👉 HERODION HOTEL is my favourite place to stay in Athens as the staff are so helpful and its location is perfect for exploring the city

To make the most of Lisbon, these are the best experiences to book:

Lisbon in Portugal is one of the top destinations to visit in Europe during the winter, especially in November. It’s known for its mild weather, making it a perfect place for those looking to escape the cold.

The city is also home to a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and historic sites so you will not stop. I also found Lisbon an excellent place for shopping, with a wide variety of stores and boutiques. I picked up the most amazing Christmas decorations that I still use today and visitors to my home always point them out!

And of course, no visit to Lisbon would be complete without sampling the city’s delicious food and wine. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder Lisbon is one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

November is a great time to visit Lisbon because the city is less crowded than it is during the summer tourist season. You can experience all that Lisbon has to offer without the crowds.

This is one of the best city breaks anyone could ask for in Europe. There are so many amazing places to stay across the city, including my personal favourite Ferraria XVI FLH Hotels Lisboa

To make the most of Dublin, these are the best experiences to book:

Dublin is a great destination for visitors in November. If you have never visited, trust me you need to. The weather is cool and the leaves are changing colour, making it a beautiful time of year to visit.

There are also plenty of great places to eat and drink in Dublin. The Guinness Factory is a must-see for anyone visiting for the first time. I have been a few times and love visiting, especially for the pint you can order with your face on it!

And no trip to Dublin is complete without a stop at the most famous bar in the City, Temple Bar. This is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness and people-watch. They also play live music there in the evenings which you shouldn’t miss.

But one of the best things about Dublin is its people. They’re friendly and welcoming, and they make sure everyone feels at home.

So if you’re looking for a place to visit during November, be sure to add Dublin to your list. You won’t regret it!

👉 My #1 Hotel when visiting Dublin is Hotel 7 .

7. Budapest

To make the most of any trip to Budapest, these are the best experiences to book:

Budapest is a great place to visit any time of year, but November is particularly special. The city comes alive with festive Christmas markets, and the chilly weather is perfect for relaxing in one of the many thermal spas.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable travel experience, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Budapest. This is one of the first city breaks I ever did and I completely fell in love with it, despite the cold winter weather!

There are plenty of things to see and do in the city, so it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your time. A visit to the thermal spas is a must, as they are one of the things that Budapest is most famous for.

You will find so many options around the city, but note some are male visitors only. No matter if you are visiting as a couple, family or solo traveller, I would highly recommend visiting Gellért Baths.

If you are looking for a unique activity to do in Europe during November, book the wine tasting under Budapest Castle. It is probably my favourite activity I have ever done when exploring Europe during Winter!

If you are looking for some of the best wines in Europe , this is the spot for you. And even if you don’t, the whole experience is so special you will not regret going.

And be sure to check out the Christmas markets – they are some of the best in Europe! No matter your budget, you are guaranteed to have an unforgettable trip to Budapest.

Budapest is a really popular destination to visit in Europe during the winter, so it is worth booking your hotel in advance.

🏨  For a comfortable stay and a great distance to the major sites in Budapest, I always stay HERE

8. Valletta

To make the most of any trip to Valleta, these are the best experiences to book:

This is one of the destinations in Europe you will want to visit for sunshine, especially in November. Malta is a great destination to visit because the Island is alive, even during the winter months. Most Islands shut down outside the tourist season but Malta doesn’t.

Visiting Valletta the capital city of Malta during November is a great idea for solo, family and couple travellers. The weather is perfect for exploring the city’s many historical sites, and there are endless activities to do to keep everyone entertained.

You can even swim in the sea and enjoy the beaches at this time of year!

Plus, Valletta is incredibly picturesque, with its Mediterranean architecture and stunning views of the sea. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find it in Valletta.

For the ultimate trip, I highly recommend renting a car and exploring more of the Island and going over to the Island of Gozo!

🏨  There are plenty of great places to stay in Valletta, for the best value for money, I always love staying HERE .

9. Normandy

To make the most of your Normandy trip, these are the best experiences to book:

If you’re looking for a great place to visit during November when in Europe, why not consider Normandy in France?

This is an ideal destination for all types of visitors wanting a true taste of France. But for any history lovers out there, this is one of the top spots to visit in Europe as it’s the site of some of the most important events of the Second World War.

You can learn all about the D-Day landings by going to the D-Day Landings Museum and actually visiting the beaches that are important historical sites. There are some other amazing spots to visit in Normandy including Mont Saint-Michel and the famous Bayeux Tapestry.

The best way to get around Normandy is by Car. There is a lot to see around Normandy and it is a short drive to Paris and other French locations.

There’s also plenty of opportunity to sample some delicious French food and wine which will make your getaway the best!

I highly recommend trying some locally-made cider in Normandy after a long day of sightseeing. So if you’re looking for a memorable holiday in November, be sure to add Normandy to your list!

👉 For the best place to stay in Normandy, Check Out Best Western Le Cheval Blanc -Centre- Vieux Port

To make the most of your Krakow trip, these are the best experiences to book:

I love Krakow, especially in November.

Krakow is a really popular place to during December and for New Year . However, November is the perfect time to experience winter in Europe, without the Crowds.

It is great value for money, and there are lots of activities to do. Many people visit Krakow during November to see the beautiful scenery and visit popular landmarks throughout Poland.

Some of the popular activities include visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum which is just over an hour’s drive from the city.

There are also plenty of other things to do when visiting Krakow like visiting other Polish Holocaust sites , taking a trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine, and exploring the many markets and shops that Krakow has to offer.

There is also a wide variety of food available in Krakow, so you are sure to find something that you will enjoy. If you are looking for a fun and affordable place to visit, then Krakow is definitely the place for you.

🏨  There are so many amazing places to stay in Krakow , but This   is the hotel I will always recommend!

11. Vilnius

To make the most of Vilinus, these are the best experiences to book:

Visiting Vilnius in November is a great idea for anyone looking for a great value trip in Europe. I love visiting here for a winter break because there is so much to see and do!

And even though the weather is cold and sometimes snows, you will still be able to explore and get in the festive spirit.

The city is known for its beautiful architecture, including Gothic churches and Art Nouveau buildings. And of course, no visit to Vilnius would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine , which includes hearty stews and delicious breads.

So if you’re looking for a festive place to spend your winter holidays with so much to do, look no further than Vilnius in Lithuania .

👉 My all-time favourite Hotel is right in Vilnius! I cannot recommend enough you booking your stay at Shakespeare Boutique Hotel

FAQs about visiting Europe in November

Europe is an incredible destination you need to visit at least once in your lifetime.

However, there is something so special about planning your visit to Europe in November.

To help you decide if this is the perfect time for your trip, we have rounded up the most frequently asked questions about exploring Europe in November here:

What is the best European country to visit in November?

Deciding the best place to visit in Europe in November or any time of year does depend on what you want out of your trip. If you are looking for warm sunshine and little rain, you probably don’t want to visit somewhere like the UK.

For travellers seeking sun for a visit to Europe during November, destinations like Malta, Portugal and Spain should be at the top of your list.

However, If you are searching for snowy landscapes, you will probably want to visit locations such as Finland, Iceland and the Alps.

There are so many unique places to visit in Europe , and lots of these are Cities. Amsterdam, Paris and Prague are amazing places to visit in the Winter for a City break.

Where in Europe is warm in November?

Europe is a huge continent with a wide range of climates, so it can be tough to know where to visit for warm weather in November.

However, there are a few locations that tend to be warm even during the winter months. The Canary Islands are a popular destination for sun-seekers, and thanks to their location off the coast of Africa, they enjoy warm weather all year round.

Tenerife is the largest and most popular island in the Canaries, and it’s known for its sandy beaches, lush landscapes and lively nightlife.

I also love Gran Canaria , it is stunning and has some great places to relax!

Another warm European destination is Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean Sea. With average temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius in November, Malta is a great place to enjoy some winter sun.

So if you’re looking to escape the cold this winter, these are the best places to book a holiday.

I hope you found this article about the ultimate places to visit in Europe in November helpful! To make your visit to Europe the best, here are some more helpful posts:

✔️ The Best Backpack For All Types Of European Travel

✔️ The Best Luggage For All Types Of European Travel

✔️ What To Wear In Europe (+ What You Should Avoid Wearing): The Guide For All Seasons

✔️ Where Are The Best Places To Visit In April In Europe?

✔️  The perfect road trip gifts

The best places to visit in Europe in November sign-off: Europe has so many wonderful places to visit, it can be hard to know where and when to go.

November in Europe is just full of amazing places to visit. It is also a great time to book a trip as it will be less busy and usually a lot cheaper than in December.

This guide is full of the best places to visit in Europe in November for all budgets and holiday types, I really hope you have found the perfect one for you!

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

Related Posts

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15 Best Europe destinations in November of 2023

November can be an excellent month to visit Europe as long as you are prepared for the weather, which is mostly on the cool side and rarely even close to frozen. Summer is peak season for most popular European cities, and Christmas season tends to be crowded as well, so a November visit allows you to sneak in when crowds and prices are low and the weather is still decent.

The list below contains Europe’s only good beach destination in November as well as the 14 best options for those wanting a cultural holiday. Pretty much all of the famous cities are on the list below, and fortunately none of them are known for getting much in the way of rain, and that goes for London as well. All of the hotel prices are updated for 2023 and there are some great deals in Europe this November.

Important November 2023 Holidays

• November 1 – All Saints’ Day (major public holiday in most European countries)
• November 5 – Guy Fawkes Night in England (celebrations)
• November 11 – Armistice Day in France (major public holiday)
• November 17 – Velvet Revolution Anniversary in Czechia (major public holiday)
• November 19 – Sinterklaas arrives in Amsterdam (family celebrations)
• November 23 – Thanksgiving Day in the USA (major public holiday)

Below you’ll find

• Europe’s best November beach destination
• Europe’s 14 best November city destinations

Europe's only decent November beach destination

Tenerife, canary islands, spain.

• November avg high: 75°F/24°C
• November avg low: 65°F/18°C
• November avg precip: 1.1″/2.8cm

Tenerife highlights

• Sandy beaches and hundreds of nice hotel pools
• A pleasant atmosphere with very reasonable food and drinks
• Interesting and mellow nightlife with no huge night clubs
• Teide volcano and national park: Great day trip
• Comfortable island for English speakers getting out of the cold

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and the best choice for English speakers as well. Head to the resort area in the southwest of Tenerife around the town of Los Cristianos for the most choices of hotels and apartment rentals. In November you’ll be surrounded by northern Europeans and the local workers. You might also look into the other Canary Islands including Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and La Palma, which all have similar weather and hotel prices. Tenerife is arguably the easiest for English speakers, but all of them are very welcoming.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €58 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €85 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €12 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Tenerife >>> Tenerife prices and travel tips

14 Best non-beach destinations in Europe in November

Rome, italy.

• November avg high: 63°F/17°C
• November avg low: 47°F/8°C
• November avg precip: 4.4″/11.0cm

Rome highlights

• Colosseum, Ancient Rome, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and other monuments
• Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City
• Stunning architecture that surprises you around every corner
• Great place to sample Italian dining and drink styles from all over the country
• Coffee and wine bars that are affordable and friendly

If this is your first visit to Italy you’ll probably want to head north from Rome and visit Florence and Venice (both mentioned below). But if you have more time you might also consider  Sorrento , which is a bit south of Naples. It’s a bit warmer in November and it’s the perfect base for day trips of Naples, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and the Isle of Capri.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €76 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €101 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €15 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Rome >>> Rome prices and travel tips

Florence, Italy

• November avg high: 59°F/15°C
• November avg low: 42°F/6°C

Florence highlights

• Florence Cathedral and city hall are two very photogenic attractions
• Ponte Vecchio bridge and its abundant jewelry shops
• Uffizi Gallery and other museums in the home of the Renaissance
• The Tuscan capital is the best culinary stop among tourist towns
• Great wine starting at shockingly low prices

Florence is smaller than Rome so you can see the most famous sights in only 2 days or so, but you might still want to spend 3 or even 4 nights here because this is the ideal base for day trips to Pisa, Siena, and even the Cinque Terre. There are also several nearby hill towns that are worth a look to experience something uniquely Italian. As the capital and largest city in the famous Tuscany region, Florence is also a great food city. Avoid places with English menus out front for the best quality and value.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €77 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €94 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €17 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Florence >>> Florence prices and travel tips

Venice, Italy

• November avg high: 53°F/12°C
• November avg low: 40°F/4°C
• November avg precip: 3.4″/8.5cm

Venice highlights

• St. Marks Square and Cathedral are unforgettable
• Rialto Bridge for amazing photos
• Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs
• Gondola ride or other boat rides on canals
• Sidewalks and passageways in the morning and evening when they aren’t crowded

The downside to visiting Venice in November is that it’s the peak month for the Acqua Alta, which is the high-tide flooding that the city experiences. It’s still possible to get around and enjoy a Venice visit in November, but it’s also wise to keep track of the Acqua Alta situation and work your schedule around it. The hotel prices for 2023 listed below are for rooms on the main island where all the sights are located. You can save some money by staying on the mainland or another nearby island, but it’s a lot of hassle getting back and forth so it’s really not worth it.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €96 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €114 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €26 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Venice >>> Venice prices and travel tips

Paris, France

• November avg high: 51°F/11°C
• November avg low: 43°F/6°C
• November avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm

Paris highlights

• Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe among many other amazing structures
• Louvre and Orsay Museum have amazing collections and are beautiful
• Seine river cruise at sunset to see all the bridges illuminated
• Hop-on, hop-off double-decker bus tour (actually amazing!)
• Probably the best food in the world, and wine as well

As long as you dress properly you can still even enjoy the excellent hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Paris in November. It’s arguably the best city bus tour in Europe and it connects nearly all of the most famous buildings and attractions. It’s included in the Paris Pass, so you might also want to check our  review of the Paris Pass . The included Seine River cruise is also highly recommended around sunset whether you buy a Paris Pass or not.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €97 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €149 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €19 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Paris >>> Paris prices and travel tips

London, England

• November avg low: 41°F/5°C

London highlights

• Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey and on and on
• Tower of London, Tower Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, all in a small area
• Oxford Street shopping is world class
• Camden Markets and Portobello Road market for unusual vibes and items
• Neighborhood pubs and surprisingly good international cuisine

London is another example of a mostly indoor city so the weather doesn’t really slow most visitors down. The famous attractions such as the (free) museums and famous cathedrals are welcoming no matter the weather outside. You might even want to look at our  London Pass review  if you want to see the top attractions in 2 or 3 days.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from £101 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from £127 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from £13 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for London >>> London prices and travel tips

Barcelona, Spain

• November avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm

Barcelona highlights

• Sagrada Familia cathedral and other Gaudi architectural highlights
• La Rambla pedestrian zone (watch for pick pockets!)
• Sandy beaches located within the city and are nice
• Marina complex with great food, shopping, and activities
• Nightlife that rivals Madrid and is late night and world-class

If this is your first time to Spain you are going to want to spend 3 or 4 nights in Barcelona but also then take the high-speed train (in 2.5 hours) to Madrid for 3 or 4 nights there. The cities are very different from each other and both are wonderful for tourists with excellent food and nightlife on top of everything else. November is actually one of the best times to visit Spain , due to the mild weather and smaller crowds.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €88 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €107 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €18 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Barcelona >>> Barcelona prices and travel tips

Madrid, Spain

• November avg high: 56°F/13°C

Madrid highlights

• Best city to experience the wide range of Spanish cultural highlights
• Royal Palace complex
• Prado Museum, which is one of the world’s best art museums and a gorgeous building
• Tapas bars, where you get free snacks with each drink ordered
• Excellent and famous nightlife that draws people from all over the world

The high-speed train that connects Madrid and Barcelona is fairly cheap if you book it at least a couple weeks in advance. Spain has a few of its own low-cost airlines, so flights into Madrid are pretty cheap this time of year, although booking early helps here as well.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €68 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €100 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Madrid >>> Madrid prices and travel tips

Lisbon, Portugal

• November avg high: 64°F/18°C
• November avg low: 53°F/12°C
• November avg precip: 4.2″/10.5cm

Lisbon highlights

• Castles, towers, and cathedrals, all in the main center
• Tram 28, which connects many of Lisbon’s tourist sights for €3 a ride
• Elevador de Santa Justa – the famous outdoor elevator
• Great food at surprisingly affordable prices
• Fado local music shows to go along with great meals

This otherwise remote city is a real gem for those who go out of their way to get here. It’s a lovely city on 7 hills so views are fantastic in every direction. And the food and culture here are very interesting as well as quite different from Spain. You can take an overnight train from Madrid, but flying is probably the better option for most people.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €55 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €77 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Lisbon >>> Lisbon prices and travel tips

Interlaken, Switzerland

• November avg high: 46°F/8°C
• November avg low: 33°F/1°C
• November avg precip: 3.3″/8.3cm

Interlaken highlights

• Gateway to the Lauterbrunnen Valley, the most beautiful place in Europe
• Cable cars and hikes and mountaintop views
• Jungraujoch railway and Schilthorn cable car are amazing and a bit expensive
• Skiing in winter and adventure sports the rest of the year
• Gimmelwald and other tiny villages in the Lauterbrunnen Valley

On the other hand, Interlaken in November is not ideal because many hotels and businesses close down between mid October when the hiking season ends and mid December when skiing season begins. There are still places open and plenty to see, but you have to plan a bit more. If you want to visit a second place in Switzerland to admire the unusual beauty,  Lucerne  is your best bet.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €171 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €177 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €29 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Interlaken >>> Interlaken prices and travel tips

Berlin, Germany

• November avg high: 45°F/7°C
• November avg low: 36°F/2°C
• November avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm

Berlin highlights

• Brandenburg Gate and a variety of Berlin Wall attractions
• Berlin Cathedral and Reichstag building
• Museum Island and its collections
• Europe’s most eclectic and interesting nightlife
• Cheap food, drinks, and hotels for a big European city

Another great thing about this city is that it’s cheaper than the other large cities in Germany including  Munich  and  Hamburg . Better still, this city has become so popular and international that you can just speak in English to anyone you encounter and you’ll almost always get a polite answer back in English.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €80 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €108 for two people

>>> Check hotel deals for Berlin >>> Berlin prices and travel tips

Amsterdam, Netherlands

• November avg high: 48°F/9°C
• November avg low: 39°F/4°C
• November avg precip: 3.0″/7.5cm

Amsterdam highlights

• Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum
• Rijksmuseum, Rembrandt House and many other top museums
• Heineken Experience is fun and they give you free beer at the end
• Stunning historic center with gorgeous 16th century buildings
• Nearly car-free nightlife and restaurant areas

The stunning architecture is one of the things that brings people to Amsterdam, and as long as you dress properly you’ll be able to soak that all in this month. Aside from that this is a cultural capital with excellent nightlife and a thriving arts scene. That goes all year round, as do the coffeeshops and small pubs all over town.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €101 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €145 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €27 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Amsterdam >>> Amsterdam prices and travel tips

Prague, Czech Republic

• November avg high: 44°F/7°C
• November avg precip: 1.2″/3.0cm

Prague highlights

• Prague Castle complex, which is one of Europe’s largest and most impressive
• Charles Bridge and Old Town Square for amazing photos
• Eastern Europe’s most interesting architecture that somehow survived WWII
• Hearty food at great prices (if you avoid tourist zones)
• Arguably the world’s best beer that is also cheap if you follow locals

It will still be crowded in the main squares of Prague in November, but much less so than in warmer months so it’s more pleasant in general. If you want to spend a bit more time in Czechia, head to  Cesky Krumlov , which is 3 hours away on a scenic bus ride or train. Cesky Krumlov is much more charming than Prague, and it’s cheaper than Prague by quite a bit as well.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €39 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €58 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €14 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Prague >>> Prague prices and travel tips

Budapest, Hungary

• November avg high: 47°F/8°C
• November avg precip: 2.4″/6.0cm

Budapest highlights

• Parliament building overlooking the Danube for your own postcard photos
• Some of Europe’s best architecture fitting of a major capital
• Very cheap food and drinks (outside of the main tourist zone)
• Natural hot spring complexes right in the city that are easy and cheap to visit
• “Ruin pubs” set in courtyards of old apartment buildings (highly recommended!)

Budapest has a lot in common with Prague, but the architecture here is on a grander scale for the most part and it feels very different. This city is also one of the cheaper capital cities in Europe, so your travel fund really goes a long way here. The famous nightlife in the ruin pubs should not be missed at any time of year.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €46 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €64 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €9 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Budapest >>> Budapest prices and travel tips

Istanbul, Turkey

• November avg high: 60°F/16°C

Istanbul highlights

• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, which are right next to each other
• Grand Bazaar other excellent and interesting shopping areas
• Topkapi Palace
• Great food at very reasonable prices, especially the breakfasts
• Affordable hotels in the popular tourist district of Sultanahmet

Those that have more than a few days might also consider exploring more of Turkey. For one thing, every other city in the country is at least a bit cheaper than Istanbul. And most places have even warmer temperatures in November, so it’s an ideal time to explore Cappadocia or even the southern coast along  Antalya .

The currency in 2023 has plummeted and inflation has been pretty severe. The net result is that Turkey is one of the cheapest countries in the world this year for foreign visitors who bring in other currencies. That said, there has been a bit of unrest (usually very easy to avoid) so keep you eye on the news.

• Good 3-star hotels in November from €57 for two people
• Good 4-star hotels in November from €69 for two people
• Hostel dorm beds in November from €6 per person

>>> Check hotel deals for Istanbul >>> Istanbul prices and travel tips

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15 Best Europe destinations in November of 2023 " --> All Comments

Hi Roger, Thank you for having such an informative and helpful page. We are planning a last minute trip to Europe during Thanksgiving break for 10 days landing and departing from Frankfurt. We will most likely be traveling by train. We were hoping to be able to hit a couple of countries during our first time trip to Europe. Ideally we would prefer warmer destinations for this time of the year. We are not really into partying and drinking rather we enjoy sightseeing, seeing different cultures, eating local foods. Which countries/ cities would you recommend for us? Ooh lastly how many days and nights in each place would you suggest. Hoping to explore as much as we can during this time away. Thank you in advance for all your help and guidance.

Sorry about the delay on answering this. It’s probably too late if you are going this year. Needless to say, if you want milder temperatures you should go south from Frankfurt. I’d focus on Italy, southern France, and Spain. Again, sorry for missing this before. -Roger

Hi Wade ….

I have been planning for an Euro trip by Nov 2021 and for 30 days. I wanna visit maximum famous spots but with adequate time at every spot. Not to rush over everywhere.Can you please suggest me a few cities ? And also since I have a longer time in hand, biased to that do u have some other time to suggest for me to manage? Like February or March…?

How best I can utilize the time sir?

I’d start out with this article about the best European destinations for a first visit . That will give you all of the most popular choices for groups of cities and countries to visit, with some other options to add on for each one.

I highly recommend London and Paris as two of the best places for a first visit. London is amazing and fairly easy to visit because of the language, and Paris is so filled with impressive sights and great food that it ends up being the favorite stop of most who visit.

November is nice enough in both places, but I’m not sure I’d recommend going in December through February because the days are quite short (sunrise at 8:30 AM and sunset at 4 PM or so). March is nicer so it’s another good choice. I’m happy to answer more questions as you start to put your trip together. -Roger

Hello Roger,

Hoping we will be out of the Covid crisis by November, my daughter (28) and I would like to either travel to Italy or Croatia, or both. We would be going the first of November. Would your recommend either or both? Also, would the south of Italy be a better option or would it be all closed up for the season?

Sorry for the slow response. Of those two I’d definitely go to Italy in November. Almost all of the best places in Croatia are along the coast, and by November it’s quite chilly and many places are very quiet. Italy, on the other hand, has some beach towns that are slow in November (Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre etc), but the cities are still lively and November weather tends to be pretty mild.

Again, I’d probably minimize time in the beach areas, but you could go to Sicily and have very nice weather. The main cities will all be quite busy, though still not many tourists. November is a great time to visit Italy. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

Is it a good idea to visit the Dolomites from Rome for 3 days? We enjoy the outdoors and especially mountains. We would be there the first part of November .

I’m not very familiar with sights within the Dolomites, although I’ve heard good things. It looks like the trains between Rome and the Dolomites are fairly slow and take 4 hours just to get to the close edge, so it’s worth checking into the transportation before you do much more planning. I wish I could help more and I’m sure you’ll find good advice elsewhere. -Roger

Hey Roger, I must say the post as well as your reply on each comments is commendable. I along with 3 friends(all below 30yrs old) are planning our first European trip from India for 10-11 days. Expected date will be during 15th Oct to 10th Nov. After googling as well as reading your various posts, it looks like Italy (Rome, Florence, Venice) is great choice. What other places would like to suggest to add in this? Please also suggest, if not Italy what other choice I can have.

Yes, I think Italy will be a great choice for a first trip to Europe and those three cities are the best choices. My general recommendation is 1 or 2 nights in Venice (it’s small and quite crowded so staying longer doesn’t really pay off), 3 nights in Florence, and 3 nights in Rome. That would give you 3 to 5 additional days on your trip. Since this is your first trip to Europe I’d highly recommend adding Paris for 3 or 4 days. You can fly there cheaply and quickly from Rome or Venice or Milan or Pisa (near Florence) and then fly back to Rome for your flight home.

Compared to your 8th, 9th, and 10th days in Italy, I think Paris would provide a lot more entertainment and diversity.

The other good options would be to add Switzerland by taking a train through the Alps to Interlaken for a few days . It’s amazingly scenic, but also very expensive.

Probably the cheapest and easiest option would be to add a few more days in Italy. Have a look at my suggestions for the best Italy itineraries for your best options. If you are adventurous I’d suggest exploring Naples, Pompeii, and staying in Sorrento for those days. But again, I think your best overall option would be to add Paris by flying in and out. Let me know if you have any questions.

By the way, your photo appears automatically and it must be through your gmail account. I’ll try to change your gmail address and hopefully it won’t pull it up after that. -Roger

Hello Roger. I am planning a trip to Europe with my wife and 6 year old daughter this November. I was planning for London, but I am told that days are very short in November in London and hence i wont be able to utilize time. What would be the next best destination? Italy? Spain? any other? Is Italy warmer than London? We will have about 8 to 9 days in hand for travel. Please suggest. Thanks in advance.

It’s true that London is so far north that the sun rises around 08:00 and sets around 16:30 in November, and it’s somewhat chilly as well, but it’s still a really fun place to visit during the winter and you’d have plenty of time to see the famous sights during the daytime. There is plenty to do after dark as well and the museums typically stay open until 17:30 even during the winter.

That said, you’ll find more daylight hours and milder weather in Italy or Spain. If you haven’t been to either of them I’d recommend Italy, as it’s much more impressive for the first-time visitor and it’s easier as well for those of us who don’t speak Spanish. The classic Italy itinerary is Rome, Florence, and Venice. In 8 days you could do 3 or 4 days in Rome, 3 or 4 days in Florence (including possible day trips to Pisa or Siena or Cinque Terre) and 1 or 2 days in Venice. You’ll find this and other options in my article about the best first-time Europe itineraries . Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

@Roger thanks for the feedback ! I prefer Rome over Prague since am alone and can explore the historic stuff there .. also I think the weather in Rome can be a bit nicer I think ? Is taking a night train to Rome am better option than flying … because I couldn’t find a lot of flights late in night ! Also Rome can be intimidating in the sense of tourist ? Can you please shed some light on that ? Because I am more interested in Rome just to see the colosseum and Sistine chapel ! Please advise !

If you are more interested in the sights of Rome then I’d go there for sure, and the weather is almost certainly going to be a little nicer than Prague. Night trains are becoming less common all over Europe, mostly because of all the cheap flights. I’m not too fond of overnight trains for a few reasons, but if you find one you might enjoy it.

As far as Rome being a little intimidating, it’s mostly that it feels somewhat disorganized and crowded, especially when you first arrive. It’s a huge city and most locals speak little or no English, although obviously it’s got plenty of hotels catering to English speakers and at the tourist attractions you’ll find English signs and ticket sellers who speak enough English to help. You’ll be fine though so I wouldn’t worry about it. Prague is also quite crowded in its heart, and English isn’t too widely spoken, but it feels a bit easier because there are so many other English-speaking tourists around.

As mentioned, Prague has beautiful architecture and it’s a fun party city and at least a little cheaper than Rome, but Rome makes my list of 5 best European cities to visit , and Prague doesn’t. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

I found this article great ! I am travelling to Germany (Munich) for work . I have time on weekend (Fri after work, Sat,Sun) to make a trip.I would want to catch a direct flight back to Dubai. Which place can you suggest ? Is Prague nice or Rome ? Am also concerned about travelling with all the luggage if on a train is that a problem ?

Thank you. You can go from Munich to Prague by train in about 5 hours, and I think that would be a great idea. You’d obviously have to fly to Rome, and taking the train is much more enjoyable and should also be cheaper (and a bit faster). Prague is a really gorgeous city and it’s one of Europe’s better party cities, so spending a weekend there will be fun.

The intercity trains like that are pretty good with having enough space for luggage, so it shouldn’t be a problem, but you’ll obviously want to pack as light as you can and keep an eye on your things.

Also, Rome is a very interesting city, but it’s also rather hectic and kind of intimidating. If you want to see the Coliseum and Trevi Fountain, go to Rome, but if you want to experience nightlife and have a fun weekend in an interesting place, I’d go to Prague. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger

November in Europe: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

If you're thinking about a Eurotrip in November, it's one of the most affordable times to travel around the continent. It's the low season for tourism and everything is cheaper from flights to hotel rooms and even train tickets. Plus, cities that are inundated with tourists in the busy summer months or for the holidays feel deserted by comparison, meaning easier access to the most popular attractions without long lines or suffocating crowds.

One significant concern about visiting in November is the weather, when the final days of fall are fully transforming into full-blown winter. Temperatures range drastically across the region, but you should be prepared for chilly—even frigid—days regardless of what countries you visit.

Europe Weather in November

The weather in November changes depending on which European country and region you're visiting—a November trip to Sweden is much different from a November trip to a Greek island. The countries of Northern and Eastern Europe may experience freezing temperatures and even snowfall in November, while those in Southern Europe will be cold, but not freezing cold. If wintry holiday markets sound like an ideal vacation, then focus your trip around Germany, Scandinavia, France, the Netherlands, or other nearby countries. If you want to avoid the most extreme cold, then head to countries like Portugal, Spain, Italy, or Greece.

For even more temperate weather, head to the southern coasts of Europe's southern countries, such as Andalusia, Spain , or the Algarve in Portugal , where the average high is 67 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius). It may not be beach weather in November, but you'll find the days to be relatively warm and off-season deals to boot (although if beach weather is what you're looking for, you could always head to the Spanish Canary Islands ).

November tends to be a rainy month across the continent, although the amount and duration of rainfall varies based on the region. In notoriously wet countries like the U.K. and the Netherlands, rain is light but almost an everyday occurrence, whereas Spain or Portugal tend to have sunny weather overall with rare bursts of rainstorms. You aren't likely to experience snowfall in November, but it's definitely a possibility in the northern countries, especially in the latter part of the month. Be sure to check forecasts leading up to your trip in case you need to pack snow gear.

What to Pack

How to pack your suitcase really comes down to what countries you'll be visiting, and you'll need to pack a lot more heavy layers if you're visiting the chilly northern countries. On the other hand, if you're heading to the Canary Islands you'll need bathing suits and beachwear.

In general, you'll need to pack layers regardless of where you go. Bring jackets and sweaters that are comfortable for walking around outside but easy to take off when you enter museums, restaurants, or other attractions. You should bring at least one heavy coat and a water-resistant jacket you can throw on in case it rains. If your trip includes colder regions, pack a scarf, gloves, and a warm hat.

November Events in Europe

Even though the end-of-summer festivals have officially come to end, Europeans stave off the cold weather with a full agenda of cultural events throughout November. From jazz festivals to historical celebrations, you can find unique happenings across the entire continent throughout the month.

• All Saints' Day: The Christian holiday of All Saints' Day is celebrated on November 1 in almost every country of Europe. Traditionally, it's a time when families visit cemeteries and clean the tombstones of deceased relatives. It's a holiday in most countries and accommodations usually book up quickly as people take advantage of the long weekend to travel around.
• Jazz Festivals: Fans of this classic genre have not one or two but four opportunities to catch some of the biggest jazz festivals in Europe. Jazz festivals take place throughout November in Madrid , Barcelona , Rome , and Berlin , so you can pick one to enjoy or hop around to visit multiple festivals.
• Bonfire Night (U.K.): Bonfire Night, also known as Guy Fawkes Night, is celebrated on November 5 across the U.K., recalling the famous refrain, "Remember, remember the fifth of November." It's not an official bank holiday, but local bonfires and even firework shows are common throughout the country, so ask about what's happening in the city you'll be visiting.
• Truffle Festivals (Italy): November is the season of mushrooms and no mushroom is more valued than the truffle. Across Italy, truffle festivals take place throughout the month, perhaps the most famous being the Alba White Truffle Fair in the region of Piedmont, about 30 miles outside of Turin. Get your fill of these cherished mushrooms while you can.
• The Arrival of Sinterklaas (Netherlands):  In mid-November, the Dutch Santa Clause, Sinterklaas , stops in Amsterdam with lots of fanfare. He's welcomed with a massive parade through the city center, officially kicking off the holiday season. His yearly arrival is scheduled for November 15, 2020, so don't miss out on this delightful Dutch tradition

November Travel Tips

• Virtually every major European city has a reliable public transport system, so brush up on how to navigate around your destination before arrival so inclement weather doesn't affect your trip.
• In November, Christmas markets begin to pop up in major cities and small towns all over the continent. The most quintessential markets are found in Germany and France , but you can find them in almost every country.
• Be sure to confirm that your accommodations have heating, especially if you're booking an Airbnb. Some apartments, especially in older buildings, may not have that included.
• Apart from the holiday weekend on November 1, airlines often offer insanely cheap deals for flights around Europe to attract travelers during the low-season. If you're thinking of a cross-country Eurotrip, November is one of the most affordable times to do it.

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Team Wanderlust | 04 October 2023

The 17 best places to visit in november.

Not many consider travelling in November, which is why it is the ideal month to get away. Here, we reveal the best destinations for cultural events, wildlife encounters and more...

As it gets colder and darker in the northern hemisphere, we all dream of jetting off somewhere exotic, or just different. Despite this, November is considered a low season for travel across many parts of the world, which is why it's the perfect time to get away.

Whether you're seeking out candlelit celebrations, high altitude capers or anywhere south of the equator, we've got you covered with our list of the world's best destinations to visit in the penultimate month of the year. 

If you want to see the full list, keep scrolling. If you know your travel style, click to your chosen section using one of these handy links:

• The best November destinations for culture and heritage
• The best November hot spots for watching wildlife
• Where to go in November for ideal weather
• The best longer-term trips in November

The best places for culture and heritage...

1. chiang mai, thailand.

A krathong (Shutterstock)

Celebrated across Thailand  (but particularly stunning in Chiang Mai), Loi Krathong is one of Thailand’s most beautiful celebrations. Pronounced loy kra -tong, Loi translates to ‘float’ while a krathong is a kind of basket woven from banana leaves, traditionally decorated with flowers, incense and candles.  

On the full moon in November, k rathongs are floated on rivers and canals as offerin gs to Pra Mae Khongkha , a Goddess in Southeast Asian Buddhist mythology closely associated with water. The offerings represent a request for forgiveness for using the region’s rivers and deltas. Historically, Thailand is an agricultural society and has relied heavily on its waterways.  

If you float a krathong this November, make sure that it is made from banana leaf or, as is increasingly common, bread, rather than polystyrene. Thai authorities have pulled tens of thousands of non-biodegradable krathongs from the water in recent years. There’s no point in apologising for using rivers by polluting them.

2. Riga, Latvia

The torchlit procession on Proclamation Day, Riga, Latvia (Shutterstock)

Head to this Baltic beauty for another illuminated celebration. November 18 th marks Latvia’s Independence Day. Observed as Proclamation Day, the 18 th is a national holiday in Latvia, celebrated with concerts, exhibitions, a military parade and a torchlit march through the streets.  

The Riga   parade is a touching display of solidarity and brings Latvians together across the country. The night ends with fireworks and gatherings in public squares. If you’re willing to brave the cold, November is a great time to visit Riga as there is plenty to do.  

3. Varanasi, India

The Dev Deepawali Celebrations in Varanasi, India (Shutterstock)

Fifteen days after Diwali, on the full moon of Kartika, residents of Varanasi celebrate Dev Deepawali, the ‘Diwali of the Gods’. During this festival, millions of d iyas (oil lamps) are placed on the steps of the ghats and floated on the Ganges to honour the river and its Gods.  

It’s said that on this night, the Gods descend to Earth and bathe in the Ganges. The banks of the rivers glow like embers and the bustling city takes on an otherworldly atmosphere. 

4. Michoacan, Mexico

The Dia De Muertos, Mexico City, Mexico (Shutterstock)

No doubt you’ve heard of Day of the Dead , but if you’re yet to experience it in all its macabre glory, head down to Michoacan to join in the festivities. The Day of the Dead ( Dia De Muertos ) is a UNESCO-honoured Mexican holiday in which people honour the dead by building altars, dressing up and visiting graves. The iconography of the festival has gained international recognition, known for its elaborate costumes and painted sugar skulls.  

Dia De Muertos is a celebration and it is treated exactly as that. Death is viewed positively in M exico as a natural part of the lifecycle. On this night, the dead are said to return to life to celebrate with loved ones.  

While Mexico’s major urban centres see massive parades and festivities, it’s best to celebrate Dia De Muertos in the south of the country as it has longer roots down there. Scholars speculate that the festival is an amalgam of an Aztec celebration with All Saints’ Day. It was not observed in the north of the country until the 20 th century, and so has a richer history in southern regions like Michoacan . Coincide the festival (November 2 nd ) with a trip to the beautiful coloniall city of Morelia.  

Cologne Christmas Market (Shutterstock)

Home to the world-famous Christmas markets, Germany's festive celebrations usually kick off from mid-November. We can't promise it will be quiet, but there will certainly be less crowds the further away from Christmas you visit. 

Cologne has one of the most beautiful backdrops for its largest market, Weihnachtsmarkt Am Kölner Dom. Its wooden pavilions are set up in the town square beneath the illuminated cathedral, which is free to enter during its opening hours. If you'd like to climb up to the top of its tower, you'll need to pay a small fee.

Head to Dresden for what is considered the oldest Christmas market in Germany, Dresden Striezelmarkt. Its traditional handcrafted nutcrackers are one of the most popular stall items to purchase. 

And of course, the German capital also puts on some of the most exciting Christmas markets in the country. Berlin's Gendarmenmarkt has stalls with crafted wooden gifts, and is also a popular space for entertainers, from fire-eaters to jugglers. To warm up post-market, there's countless cosy pubs and bars to roll into and pick up a mulled wine. 

The best places for watching wildlife...

6. valdes peninsula, argentina.

Fur Seals on the Valdes Peninsula, Argentina (Shutterstock)

When it comes to marine life, Argentina’s Valdes Peninsula in November is the Piccadilly Circus of the southern seas. This region is home to a variety of birds, penguins, sea lions, seals, whales, orcas and dolphins. While some species may gather in greater numbers in other months, November gives you the best chance of seeing them all. Don’t you just love it when things come together?  

The peninsula boasts 250 miles of UNESCO-protected coastline bustling with marine life. You'll find lagoons full of lounging fur seals, bays with orcas close enough to photograph and rookeries invaded by penguin colonies. It’s spring in Patagonia and while it won’t be too warm, it’s a lovely time of year to visit southern Argentina.  

7. Chobe, Botswana

A leopard in Chobe National Park, Botswana during the green season (Shutterstock)

November is green season in Chobe. Yes, that can mean a little rain, but that’s a blessing, not a curse. While C hobe is famous for its elephant population and herds of buffalo watering on the riverfront during the dry season, avoiding the green season would be a mistake.  

As well as lower fares, the green season offers an excellent chance to see large groups of zebra as they start to migrate. It’s also birthing season, so be prepared to see a lot of impala lambs and as a result, their predators.  

November in Chobe is the best time, however, for birds. Migratory birds arrive in Chobe in enormous numbers at this time of year. In addition, water-birds including herons and gulls can be found nesting on the riverbanks.  

Read next Secret African safaris without the crowds

8. tikal, guatemala.

A spider monkey in Tikal, Guatemala (Shutterstock)

In November, cool winds sweep over Guatemala’s highlands, blowing away the clouds from the rainy season. That’s why the locals fly kites in central Guatemala on All Saints’ Day.   

You can’t totally discount the possibility of rain, but then a third of the country is rainforest, so what do you expect? The temperature is very reasonable in November, with cool nights in the highlands so no rolling around in stifling heat. Most importantly, the winter rush has not begun. Because of its temperate climate and close proximity to North America, Guatemala can receive a lot of visitors during the winter break.  

Head to the incredible Mayan ruin of Tikal in the north of the country. This ancient citadel was once inhabited by Mesoamerica’s most advanced civilisation, but now, as the forest encroaches, it’s home to the humble spider monkey. The ruins at Tikal are a fantastic place to see this cheeky primate, although, a heads up – they’ve been known to def e cate on visitors.

Read next: Trip Planner: Exploring the ancient Mayan World 

9. south georgia and the south sandwich islands.

Albatross nesting in South Georgia (Shutterstock)

South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are a series of overseas UK territories in the Southern Atlantic Ocean. They’re incredibly remote and only accessible by boat; the nearest airport is on the Falkland  Islands. Known as the ‘Serengeti of the Southern Ocean’ the islands offer the highest concentration of Antarctic wildlife in the world. The islands house large king penguin populations, fur seals, whales, dolphins and are an occasional home to the wandering al batross.  

Visit in November because you can – cruises to the island resume in October after the harsh winter. The voyage takes between 2 and 3 days and as a result, South Georgia is one of the least visited places on the planet. Fewer than 10,000 people visit every year.  

The best places for good weather...

10. florida, usa.

Stuart in Martin County (Shutterstock)

During the summer Florida   is abuzz with tourists. But there's plenty of other lesser-known regions of the Sunshine State to visit, and in November, it's still warm enough for sunbathers. 

Martin County is one of Florida's secret spots, home to gorgeous white sand beaches, unique historic sites, and the northern hemisphere's most biodiverse lagoon ecosystem, t he St. Lucie Inlet. 

For observing the best of Florida's wildlife, head to the Everglades National Park, either as a day trip from Miami or to stay longer. The weather at this time of year is ideal for exploring the park's wondrous mangroves and wetlands, either on foot or by kayak. You'll also likely spot a manatee, as they start migrating to the Everglades warm waters during November. 

11. Mainland Greece

The Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens, Greece (Shutterstock)

For a mild European city break in November, Athens is an excellent bet. With an average daytime temperature of 15°C, November is a perfect month for strol ling around the city without the blaze of a scorching sun, taking in the Acropolis and the Parthenon without the crowds, and hopping in and out of Athens' various museums, galleries, bars and restaurants. 

Be sure to visit the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important findings from the pre historical era, and considered one of the best museums in the world.  

Alternatively, a trip to Greece's second city of Thessaloniki opens up another portal into Greek culture. It might be slightly cooler here (a coat will be required), but history buffs can enjoy a range of indoor activities. The archaeological museum is one of the largest museums in Greece with an impressive collection of ancient artefacts, while the Museum of Byzantine Culture takes visitors back to the Byzantine period. 

12. Uruguay

Punta del Diablo, Uruguay (Shutterstock)

For something a little different this November, catch a wave in Uruguay. Chances are, you'll get them pretty much to yourself. doesn’t receive as much attention as its neighbours, despite having the highest GDP on the continent, beautiful colonial towns and stunning national parks. It’s even lesser known for its surf.  

Monte video , the cosmopolitan capital, is home to a Spanish citadel as well as Art Deco architecture. While it’s a fantastic city to visit, few travellers explore more of the country. Uruguay’s south coast is dotted with coastal towns offering great access to brilliant surfing beaches.  

Corumba, La Paloma and Punto Del Diablo are two small towns known for excellent surf. Head there in November for mild weather and perfect swells.  

As always, check up-to-date weather and safety information with local authorities before surfing. Weather can be unpredictable in this part of the world.  

13. Andalusia, Spain

A Taperia in Seville, Spain (Shutterstock)

Andalucia is famous for its mild winters, although potentially a little rain. Only a two hour flight from the UK, Seville makes for a perfect winter break. Leave your wooly coat at home and stroll along the Guadilquivir, sip wine in a rooftop bar and dive into one of the city’s many taperias.   Try carrilladas , a traditional Spanish dish – pork cheeks braised in wine. A truly comforting dish in colder weather.

But Seville is not the only gem in Andalusia. Córdoba is home to not one, but three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Mosque of Cordoba, the Medina Azahara, and the Historic Centre. The latter is where you can find traditional tapas bars that serve  salmorejo –  made from tomato, bread, oil and garlic. 

Alternatively, you can head to the coast for Málaga .  Beyond its reputation for good night life, the city has gained the attention of art lovers, with two museums dedicated to Málaga-born artists Pablo Picasso, a contemporary art centre, and the Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza, a gallery displaying work from her personal collection. 

The best places for longer term trips...

One of Bhutan's many monasteries (Shutterstock)

One of the most mysterious and hard to reach countries in the world, Bhutan should be on every travellers list. Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, this spiritual, sub-alpine nation is a real life Shangri-La. Bhutan spans large subtropical plains in the south to mountainous Himalayan regions in the north and is home to the world’s highest unclimbed mountain, Gangkhar Puensum, at 7,500 metres.  

Similarly, the rest of the country has been relatively unspoiled by industrialisation, globalisation and westernisation. It is the planet’s only carbon deficit country, meaning that it absorbs more carbon than it produces. This is partly due to a rich tree planting tradition that the Bhutanese observe, keeping the country green and luscious.  Trekkers can explore its natural delights and exquisite monasteries along the Trans Bhutan Trail.

Keep in mind, Bhutan has not simply missed Westernisation, but actively avoided it. As such, visiting the country is not easy. Bhutan has only one small airport, and only a handful of pilots are qualified to fly in and out of it. There are no intercontinental flights to or from Bhutan, so you must find a connecting flight within Asia. Then there’s the fee. From September 2022, Bhutan has increased their SDP to $200 per day. This once including an all-inclusive package, now, visitors will have to pay for food, accommodation and transport on top of the cost, making Bhutan an expensive country to travel in.

November is an excellent time to visit as the rainy season has just ended. A lack of precipitation is particularly important in Bhutan’s regions as clear skies make for incredible views.

Read next: Spectacular festivals in Bhutan

15. kerala, india.

Kerala's backwaters, India (Shutterstock)

Head to India’s tropical Malabar coast this autumn. November is an excellent time to explore Kerala’s palm edged beaches and mangrove lined backwaters. Monsoon season has just ended, giving way to relatively dry conditions, reduced humidity and an average temperature of 28° C.

November also marks the very start of Kerala’s high season and, while things can get very busy around Christmas, visiting in November should allow you to avoid the worst of the crowds.  

Hide from other visitors in a wayanad (treehouse) or leave them on the shore as you drift through the backwaters on a shikara (houseboat).

The Wadi Ghul Canyon (Shutterstock)

There’s no getting around it, Oman is hot – hence the old joke ‘Oh man it’s hot.’ So best to visit in a cooler month like November. Expect highs of 31°C and nighttime lows of 21°C. For a longer trip, November is a good choice as the weather will remain cool throughout the country.

Visit Muscat’s old town, explore Ramlet J adilah, the highest sand dune in the world, and marvel at Wadi Ghul, the Omani Grand Canyon.  

The canyon is located at the highest point in the Hajar mountain range and is more than one  kilometre deep is some places. There is a ridgetop hiking path leading to the abandoned village of As Sab.  

17. New Zealand

Taranaki Volcano, New Zealand (Shutterstock)

Spring is an excellent time to visit New Zealand. While things are getting cold in the northern hemisphere, head down under where everything is in bloom. The climate is lovely in November, with an average temperature of around 18°C.   

Naturalists should visit Pukekura Park in the Taranaki region, famed for its rhododendrons (as well as classic cone volcano, reminiscent of Mount Fuji). More adventurous travellers can take advantage of the melting mountain snow which makes for perfect white water rafting conditions.

Of course, the country attracts keen hikers from around the world. Make sure to book onto one of the country's Great Walks  before you go. The famous Milford Track usually sells out early, but there are plenty of lesser-known alternatives, such as the  Rakiura Track and Heaphy Track, both rooted within M ā ori culture.

You may also like:

Mexico's true spirit: celebrating day of the dead in michoacán, hiking through the remote villages of guatemala, rediscovering oman, a land of mountains, desert and coast, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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The Best European Cities to Visit in November

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As the nights draw in and temperatures slide down through autumn and into winter, the beach resorts and coastal towns of Europe go into hibernation. Luckily, this is also when many of the continent’s most exciting cities come to life, as city parks flourish in auburn hues, and the charming architecture of magical old towns capture their best light under the moody luminescence of gothic lamp posts. With that image in mind, here are the European cities you need to visit this November.

If you’re looking for something a little more EPIC , check out our guide to other places around the world to visit this November.

Bologna, for the very best of Italian cuisine

Nothing warms the soul more on a chilly November night than a delicious plate of hearty, authentic grub. When said grub is in the food capital of Italy – the kind of title a town really has to earn – then the phrase comfort food takes on a whole new meaning. The people of this city (the Bolognese) have been putting food at the centre of their lives for well over a thousand years – there’s a good reason one of Italy’s most famous dishes is named after them. Today it is a haven for food lovers, with buzzing markets, cutting-edge restaurants , pasta-makers and adorable old nonnas still plying their trade on every corner. As an ancient university city the backdrop to your dining experience will almost always be a beautiful one, with medieval watchtowers, porticoes and red-tiled rooftops making this one of the country’s most elegant cities, especially in autumn.

Book your spot on our Gourmet Getaway to Bologna , where you’ll get a culinary tour of the city, see the sights and get the chance to take a pasta cooking class. You’ll also visit a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy in the Emilia Romagna countryside, a balsamic vinegar manufacturer in Modena and wine tasting, with plenty of cured ham, in Parma.

Barcelona, for artistic architecture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere

You might associate the Catalan capital with searing hot temperatures and a few too many tourists, but if those two features are putting you off a trip to this glorious Spanish city then why not visit in November ? Tourist season is very much over by then, meaning cheaper prices as well as a calmer experience, but the weather remains pleasant, with sunny spells, mild temperatures and a sea still warm enough to swim in. But this isn’t just a holiday of convenience, the city’s famously brash architecture is a joy at this time of year. Bold colours brighten up the streets by day and, as darkness falls, the atmospheric alleys of the Gothic Quarter , as well as Gaudí’s great masterpiece La Sagrada Familia , take on a special kind of moody beauty.

Join us this November as we Discover the Artistic Side of Barcelona – this Mini Trip includes visits to La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Passeig de Gracia, with plenty of free time to explore the city’s incredible food market, as well as the storied streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Istanbul, for bustling bazaars and arty neighbourhoods

Another city with pleasant weather and fewer crowds in November is this Turkish metropolis, which is probably too hot for a city break in summer. Picture the scene, you’re sat outside a cafe , in the shadow of a spectacular mosque or palace, with a coffee in hand and some Turkish Delight in your belly. You’re wondering whether to visit the Grand Bazaar or the Spice Market, or perhaps a stroll through the trendy neighbourhoods of Kuzguncuk and Kadikoy , where you can potter around antique shops and bookstores, and pick up some baklava for the ferry ride back to your hotel. Quite frankly there is so much to do in this place you could end up pondering outside that cafe all day. Gaze in awe at ancient architectural behemoths , soak in the atmosphere of cultural hotspots and explore the diversity of districts on both the European and Asian halves either side of the Bosporus.

Sold on a November jaunt to this glorious city? Let us do the planning and book your spot on our five-day Introduction to Istanbul , where we’ll cram in a whole host of sights, including the Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Square and Topkapi Palace, as well a ferry ride on the Bosporus and time to explore markets and bazaars, sampling the many culinary delights of Turkey along the way.

Seville, for culture, cuisine and cathedrals

The capital of Andalusia in Southern Spain puts forward a decent case to be the most fascinating city in Europe. The region has seen countless civilisations come and go, including Roman, Islamic and Christian rule, and over centuries has sponged up the architecture , culture , traditions and cuisines of all who have passed through, culminating in a totally distinct Andalusian identity. Its old town is home to three different Unesco World Heritage Sites – the cathedral, the Royal Alcazar and Archivo de Indias – and combined with a beautiful blend of old and new architecture, makes for one of the most picturesque cities on the planet. Meanwhile as night draws in the vibrant culture of Seville comes to life. This is the home of flamenco , so no visit is complete without taking in a show, swiftly followed by some of the best tapas in Spain .

Book your spot on our Culture-Rich Adventure in Andalusia this November and we’ll take you to see the many sights of Seville, with an optional paella cooking class, flamenco show and guided bicycle tour, as well as excursions to the nearby cities of Cadiz and Jerez.

Malaga, for a trip through Spanish history

Ok so you may be realising that we love a visit to Spain in November, especially the warmer climates of the south, and especially the stunning region of Andalusia, also home to Malaga. You might associate the capital of the Costa del Sol with hordes of drunken tourists there to enjoy its many beaches and excellent nightlife, but that does a disservice to the city’s rich culture. This is the birthplace of Picasso , after all, never mind the ancient Arab fortress of Alcazaba , the beautifully preserved Roman theatre and the thriving art scene that call this city home. So with so much to explore, plus temperate weather, great food and no rowdy party tourists to spoil the setting, November is the perfect time to visit Malaga.

Book your spot on our trip to Malaga and Granada this November to see the city for yourself. We’ll show you the sights on a scenic walking tour of the city, as well as allowing you to explore on your own, or take an optional tour to the stunning gorge town of Ronda, before moving on to Granada.

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9 Best European Cities To Visit In November

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When you think of a vacation in Europe, you tend to think of sunshine, walking and sitting outdoors, spring flowers, and packing only light clothes. Think of November, and gray skies, rain, and cold spring to mind — off-putting when it comes to travel, for sure.

While I must admit to being a Northern European with a distinct foible for snow and ice, I do not like persistent rain, either. But really, the weather should only be one consideration when planning a trip, because the weather is only a small part of it, and undesirable weather can work in your favor as well.

With that in mind, here are a few cities that I personally think are perfect to visit in November, even if you might have to pack an umbrella and a warm coat.

1. Athens, Greece

Like Rome, Athens is a city that needs to be explored on foot, but in the summer it is often too hot and too crowded to really enjoy the experience. November brings fewer crowds and temperatures in the mid-60s, so you can actually climb up to the Acropolis and enjoy watching more and more of the city’s ancient structures come into view. This is such a better approach than arriving by air-conditioned coach!

Afterward, you can meander through the old neighborhood, the Plaka, without having to dodge the crowds, and enjoy the Monastiraki Flea Market without having to push people out of your way. The weather might turn, but you’ll have plenty of museums to escape to for a few rainy hours.

Pro Tip: Make sure you enjoy some day trips to places such as Delphi and Cape Sounion, since those places are usually too crowded to enjoy in the summer.

2. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia is a small city for a capital, but in addition to being worth visiting for its history, it is also a hub for day trips to the legendary Transylvania . In late autumn, when the weather turns colder, the leaves that are still clinging to the trees display beautiful hues, the mist lingers over the region, and snow can be felt in the air. This is the time to wrap up and go to see the seemingly endless Bulgarian countryside!

After a weekend in Sofia, head for Pristina, a picturesque ancient town normally filled with day trippers. Explore the UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery and search out the many castles that sit on Bulgaria’s mountaintops, most notably Bran, said to be the home of Count Dracula.

Be sure to hike up Vitosha, a mountain on Sofia’s doorstep. You can take a local bus and then a chairlift up to some sections. It is particularly beautiful in the morning when the mist clears.

3. Budapest, Hungary

The capital of Hungary, Budapest , is a majestic city on the just-as-majestic Danube, and November is probably the best time to enjoy it. It is chilly, with temperatures hovering around 40 degrees, but sunny. You can still experience those fabulous old-fashioned baths, open outdoors all year long. The crowds are at their thinnest before the Christmas rush, but, luckily, the Christmas markets open in mid-November, so you can still get into the Christmas spirit.

Budapest is famous for its old-fashioned coffeehouses and sumptuous cakes, and they’re especially welcome after a day spent out in the cold. Try Cafe Gerbeaud for its charm and cakes. And of course, it really needs to be a little chilly outside for you to truly appreciate a big, warm pot of hearty Hungarian goulash!

4. Rome, Italy

Rome is an amazing city, second only to Paris — although many will argue that it is better than Paris! But it suffers for its beauty and history by attracting too many visitors, and, quite honestly, in summer, when it is hot and overcrowded, you’d be better off visiting any other city but Rome.

And that’s why November is perfect. It’s the month there are no school holidays anywhere in Europe, and it’s when the Eternal City enjoys a lull before the Christmas rush. The weather is a mild 60 degrees, allowing you to sit out on the piazzas in a light jacket and enjoy the city’s famous gelato .

Pro Tip: November 1 is a national holiday in Rome, so everything except for the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums will be closed.

5. Valletta, Malta

Malta is a Mediterranean island brimming with history. And while the sea might beckon, there is so much to explore that in the warmer months it is just not possible to do it all without suffering from heatstroke. In the fall, the temperature is a balmy 70 degrees, which is perfect not only for sightseeing but also a dip in the water similarly to visiting warm US cities in November .

In Valletta, the ancient capital of Malta, head straight for Saint John’s Co-Cathedral . I have traveled a lot and visited many exquisite churches, but this is one of the most beautiful I have seen. Be prepared to spend an hour or more inside — it is truly awe-inspiring.

Afterward, enjoy a relaxed harbor cruise , seeing all the fortifications from the sea while enjoying the warm weather, and then head to the forts themselves, taking time to climb up the ramparts.

Pro Tip: The Three Palaces is a festival that takes place between November 1 and 5 in 2023, featuring concerts ranging from opera to jazz.

6. Prague, Czechia (Czech Republic)

Prague is another gorgeous European city that is too popular for its own good. The ancient city, the castle, the cobbled streets, and the famous Charles Bridge get so overcrowded in the warmer months that it takes all the fun out of visiting. November temperatures range from 33 to 43 degrees, and the city gets around 4 hours of sunshine every day; it is chilly, but perfectly fine to walk around.

Though the crowds are thin, there are plenty of special events and exhibitions on. One you shouldn’t miss is the Don Giovanni at the Estates Theatre , where Mozart himself directed the world premiere of this opera in 1787. This is ongoing throughout November, until December 7, 2023.

One interesting way to see Prague and learn about its history is by taking an after-dark walking tour . The good thing about November is that it gets dark early, and you won’t have to stay up all night for the tour.

7. Istanbul, Türkiye (Turkey)

Istanbul is one of those cities that does all seasons well. I have visited in the height — and heat — of summer, in the snowy wintertime, and in between, and each season has something going for it. But, again, it is the lack of crowds in November that makes visiting at this time of year so much more enjoyable. You can meander through the Grand Bazaar and take your time, without having to dodge people, and get a prime seat on the many ferries up the Bosporus, and you won’t have to queue around the block for the harem at the Topkapi Palace .

For contemporary art lovers, the Mehmet Ali Uysal exhibition titled Life is so beautiful is well worth searching out. It is on until November 17, 2023 at the PI Artworks gallery .

Pro Tip: On November 10, Türkiye erupts in celebrations commemorating Kemal Ataturk’s death, with festivals and ceremonies across the country.

8. Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík is great all year long, but one of the prime reasons to go to this northern island in the winter is to get a glimpse of the Northern Lights . You’re more likely to see glaciers and amazing waterfalls then, too. And November, in particular, offers the best of both worlds: The waterfalls are in full force, the glaciers frozen, and the mini-icebergs on the Black Diamond Beach in their prime, but you won’t be too cold or experience too much snow on the roads to get around. And it’s aurora borealis season, so your chances of seeing the amazing Northern Lights are good.

Pro Tip: Iceland is famous for its warm lagoons, and they are so much more enjoyable when it is cold outside. Even the popular Blue Lagoon is not too busy in November.

9. Stockholm, Sweden

The first time I visited Stockholm, it was winter. Even though I also visited in summer, it will always be at its prettiest in winter, in my mind. Usually covered in snow Stockholm’s many islands are still connected by flowing water in November, making a sightseeing cruise possible — they’re a great way to get your bearings. Just dress warmly. 

With the weather a little chillier, this is a great excuse to pop down into the metro stations, many of which have been decorated to resemble art galleries . You should get a day pass and simply stop-and-go at every station to have a look around.

Pro Tip: There’s nothing like combining two great things when on vacation, and this dinner cruise ticks, in fact, more than two: sightseeing, great food, and a cruise.

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

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Best Places to Visit in November in Europe

The best places to visit in Europe in November are awash with autumn colours at the start of the month, and alive with arts seasons across the continent. You have the choice of rugging up with snow in northern Europe or enjoying relatively mild weather in the south, especially throughout Italy , Spain and Greece.

This is a time to pack your hiking boots to get out into nature before the colder temperatures hit. It’s also a time to get dressed to the nines and spend lavish nights at the opera.

More major benefits, particularly for European city breaks in November, include a lack of crowds at top attractions and cheaper prices for flights and accommodation. That means you can stretch the travel budget further for pure indulgence. 

European Cities to Visit in November

When you’re choosing where to go in Europe in November, consider outdoor adventures within fiery colours, uncrowded culture capitals and off-the-beaten-path spots filled with traditional events. These destinations offer a little bit of everything to make the most of fabulous European holidays in November.

PERTHSHIRE, SCOTLAND

To bathe in the incredible changing colours of the season, head to the moors, mystical glens, cascading waterfalls and lush forests of Perthshire. Enchanting natural scenes surround the city of Perth, which was once the capital of Scotland. Given its royal history, castle-hopping is a must here, with Balhousie, Blair, Menzies, Elcho, Huntingtower and more.

The Hermitage is a protected section of forest resting on the banks of the River Braan. You’ll see towering Douglas fir trees, the mighty Black Linn Falls, red squirrels and salmon leaping up-river. In town, the winter festival season starts in early November with Bonfire Night lighting up the sky with fireworks.

The fun doesn’t stop there though, with the Perth Festival of Chocolate later on in the month. Whether you stay cosy in pubs, restaurants and museums or hit the hiking trails, Perthshire is one of the best places to go in Europe in November. It also makes an easy day trip destination from Glasgow or Edinburgh.

CESKY KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC

The fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov is often overrun with tourists, but not in November. Combine it with a trip to Prague , just a two-hour drive away, or settle in to soak up the magic of this chocolate-box South Bohemian town. In comparison with other countries, the Czech Republic is also one of the cheapest places to visit in November, or any time of year.

Cesky Krumlov Castle is the second largest castle complex in the country. If you can, book a hotel with castle views to make the most of its colourful splendour. Spend your time strolling the cobbled streets of the historic centre, which wind along the impossibly-pretty Vltava River.

Discover Bohemian antiques in the Regional Museum and take a drive through the golden countryside. There’s plenty to do, but this really is the type of place to kick back with a beer and simply soak up the captivating atmosphere.

DIJON, FRANCE

The capital of the Burgundy region hosts the Dijon International Gastronomy Fair this month, so it’s among the most delicious places to visit in France in November . The event runs for 15 days and features exquisite local products for you to sample. This is, after all, the home of Dijon mustard, and you can also expect speciality vinegar, nougat, olives, charcuterie, chocolate and crepes.

Heaven on earth for culture vultures, Dijon keeps you on the go with museum and landmark-hopping. Admire fine works of art at one of the country’s oldest museums, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, and see the lifelike statues of prophets on the medieval Well of Moses.

You simply can’t miss the majestic Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, which now houses the City Hall. Within easy day-trip distance, visit the Cote de Nuits vineyards to indulge in Pinot Noir.

BADEN-BADEN, GERMANY

This trendy, 19th-century spa town is within the region of the fairytale Black Forest. Germany, as a whole, is one of the best European countries to visit in November, for spectacular autumn foliage within dense forests and rolling landscapes.

Rug up for incredible hikes, then take to the thermal baths in Baden-Baden for rejuvenation. Bubbling up from twelve underground springs, the water’s minerals are said to provide therapeutic healing benefits.

Admire collections of imperial Easter eggs and sparkling jewellery at the Faberge Museum, devoted to the work of Carl Faberge. It’s located within Museum Mile, so hop to others including Brahms’ House, the Roman Bath Ruins and the State Art Gallery.

Try your luck at the casino at the spa resort, Kurhaus, and immerse in opera at the majestic Festspielhaus concert house.

BERN, SWITZERLAND

For local traditions combined with culinary delights, Bern is perfect for November city breaks in Europe. Local farmers team up to bring tons of onions and garlic to the capital in the form of decorative braids and garlands, for Zibelemarit (the Onion Market). You can just imagine the divine smells wafting from kitchens whipping up tarts, pizzas, soups and stews with the tasty produce.

This is a small, compact capital blessed with atmospheric cobbled streets and lovely river views. While you’re tucking into onion-flavoured goodness, explore the pedestrian-only Old Town. You’ll find fountains designed by a 16-century artist, with quirky sculptures like a child-eating ogre.

Visit the Gothic cathedral with its soaring spire and pop into Einstein House where the man himself lived, in 1903. For craft beers and gorgeous views of the Old Town and Barenpark, spend a scrumptious afternoon at Altes Tramdepot.

TALLINN, ESTONIA

Feel like an early taste of the Christmas spirit? Tallinn is among the great places to visit in Europe in November, with one of the continent’s loveliest Christmas markets opening mid-month. Santa Claus will be there, along with live reindeer, pony rides and an action-packed schedule of cultural shows. Other regular events in November include the Tallinn Comedy Festival and Tallinn Restaurant Week.

This is a town that looks exactly like a fantasy movie set and, in the warmer months, it’s flooded with cruise ship passengers. If you arrive in advance of the markets, you’ll likely get a lot of space to yourself, which is a special treat here indeed.

Take long, meandering strolls through the Old Town with your camera and find panoramic views from the Kohtuotsa viewing platform. When it’s time to warm up, hop around incredibly quaint restaurants and treat yourself to delicious Estonian cuisine and beer, with views of medieval magic.

MONTE CARLO, MONACO

Some of the best travel places in November combine festivals with mild temperatures. Fabulous Monte Carlo offers both, with the Gastronomy Fair bringing gourmet delights from more than 100 producers across Europe.

Take your foodie holiday a step further by splurging on the haute-cuisine Monaco is famous for, at restaurants under the guidance of some of the world’s most celebrated chefs.

Visit the landmark Oceanographic Museum, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. Take selfies in front of Saint Nicholas Cathedral and Prince’s Palace of Monaco. Walk along the famous Port de la Condamine and discover the winding streets of Le Rocher, Monaco’s historic district.

Naturally, you can’t leave without feeling the glamour of Casino de Monte-Carlo. It’s famous for its James Bond association, after appearing in GoldenEye. And, it’s worth it to take a tour, even if you don’t want to take your chances on blackjack.

LA GOMERA, SPAIN

Are you looking for warm places in Europe in November? Look no further than Spain’s Canary Islands . La Gomera is the archipelago’s second smallest island and a place of wild beauty that’s world’s away from the resort vibe of the other islands. This is a World Biosphere Reserve, with marine and terrestrial ecosystems blending ancient rainforests, pristine streams and lush valleys.

Hiking is at the top of the agenda, with trails encompassing otherworldly volcanic landscapes, breathtaking ocean views and black sand beaches. Due to rich volcanic soil and sunny weather, La Gomera is prime winemaking land.

There’s plenty of atmospheric restaurants to sip local vinos while indulging in traditional Canarian cuisine. Keep an ear out for Silbo Gomero, the pre-Hispanic whistling language that locals still communicate with today.

BETWS-Y-COED, WALES

For enchanting landscapes, Snowdonia is one of the best places to visit in Europe in autumn, especially towards the beginning of November. The charming mountain village of Betws-y-Coed is the perfect base, in the midst of the Conwy Valley. From here, it’s easy to reach spectacular walking, climbing and mountain bike trails. Take a stroll through ancient woodland to discover the pretty cascades of Swallow Falls.

If you love some thrills with your nature escapes, head to Zip World Fforest to jump on the alpine coaster and zip lines. Venture deep inside a mountain at Go Below, by abseiling and zip lining through caverns and across mystical lakes.

The village itself is full of quaint accommodation options, cosy cafes and unique craft shops. Amble around after a day of outdoor adventure and fuel up for the next at atmospheric restaurants.

CORNWALL, ENGLAND

In terms of places to visit in the UK in November, the ancient Celtic kingdom of Cornwall is a kaleidoscope of orange and red autumn foliage. The county’s one city welcomes the festive season with Truro City of Lights this month, a dazzling parade of music, lanterns and fun. Base yourself here and hire a car for easy adventures into glorious landscapes and picture-perfect towns.

At the centre of the Cornish city is Truro Cathedral, with three soaring spires that dominate the skyline. Explore high-street shops and restaurants when you’re not out and about in Cornwall.

Speaking of which, embark on day trips to the fishing village of Port Isaac, sprawling Bodmin Moor and elegant Padstow. Don’t miss out on immersing yourself in the myths and legends of King Arthur at Tintagel.

Europe in November Weather

Temperatures vary considerably when it comes to November weather in Europe. Beautiful auburn landscapes are best seen at the beginning of the month and, especially in the south, the crisp air is a delight for hiking and other adventure activities. If you’re looking for snow, take your skis north to Austria or Switzerland.

Northern Europe Weather in November

Winter has definitely arrived by November in northern Europe, which is great news for snow, so pack your cosy woollies. Expect shorter days when you’re out and about, with darkness setting in from about 5pm.

Western Europe Weather in November

With average high temperatures of around 10°C, pack layers, a warm coat and a waterproof jacket for western Europe holidays.

Eastern Europe Weather in November

Eastern Europe in November sees daytime temperatures of around 7°C, with often frosty nights. Lovely drifting snow is possible towards the end of the month, in fairytale destinations like Prague . 

Mediterranean Europe Weather in November

You can expect several sunny days and mild temperatures of around 18°C in the Mediterranean. Pack a variety of clothing for days ranging from warm to refreshingly cool, and chillier nights.

European holidays in November offer an incredible array of dazzling landscapes, whether you’re looking for snow, autumn leaves or sunny coastlines. Best of all, this is low season, so you won’t have to fight the crowds to see some of the world’s most spectacular sights.

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Thank you for sharing this. Hopefully the pandemic can be over soon so we able to visit many beautiful places without being worried.

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10 Best places to visit in Europe in November

Travel Travel Inspiration 10 Best places to visit in Europe in November

Europe is a traveller’s delight all through the year and the challenge is, in fact, to make sure you are packing in the best destinations and things to do in your Euro itinerary. In November, Europe is preparing for the winter coming ahead and is at the peak of autumn, where the colourful foliage is shedding. North of Europe in cities like Paris, London, and Berlin the chill is already in place and the end of November witnesses snow. Southern Europe is an altogether different scenario, where sunny cities like Rome, Barcelona, Granada, and Seville experience pleasant weather punctuated by rain. It is an ideal time to visit for those who cannot handle the humid Mediterranean heat. But, whichever region or cities you pick you will enjoy the perks of low tourist season with lower airfares and discounts on accommodation. November will witness the celebration of All Saints Day throughout the continent and every major city hosts its own International Film Festival. Find out what else you can do in the 10 Best Places to go in Europe in November.

10 Best Places to Visit in Europe in November

An assortment of 10 places that cover the warm and cold parts of Europe, our list of the 10 Best Places to Go in Europe in November is just what you need to satisfy your November hijinks. Keep your passports handy as you'll need them real soon!

Naples, Italy

Average high: 18°c | average low: 10°c.

The Neapolitan way of life is one full of good food, great vibes and a zest for life. November is one of the best months to experience this Italian Riviera. Granted, it is one of the wettest months of the year, but there is nothing an umbrella and a raincoat can shield you from. The rain drives away the crowds, leaving the city for you to explore. November is the best time to head to Pompeii to explore the ruins, or visit Herculaneum. It’s also good to bring an appetite as you will find the best Pizza in the world here! There is no dearth of culture and history in the city as it is dotted with castles and palaces.

Naples Hop On Hop Off | Pompeii Tours | National Archaeological Museum | Royal Palace of Caserta | Ruins Of Herculaneum | Ruins of Pompeii

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Granada, spain, average high: 16°c | average low: 6°c.

The last bastion of the Moors, Granada is peppered with Islamic architecture that lends an exotic atmosphere to the Spanish city nestling in the foothills of Sierra Nevada. The Alhambra is what draws the visitors, but it’s the Alcazaba, Nasrid Palaces and the Generalife Gardens that keep them enamoured. In November the weather is ideal for day trips out of the city and you should walk the ancient trail at Caminito Del Ray, pay a visit to the mosque at Cordoba or hike the Alpujarras. Not just the architecture, the cuisine of Granada is one you will want to write home about! Don’t miss out on all these amazing adventures in the most perfect weather Granada experiences!

10 Things To Do In Granada | Alhambra Granada | Generalife Alhambra | Nasrid Palaces Alhambra | Granada Card | Granada to Cordoba

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Madrid, spain, average high: 12°c | average low: 4°c.

Head next to the capital of Spain, where the weather is not exactly what you would call warm, but it still is pretty manageable. Temperatures loom around the 10°C mark, however you won’t really feel the chill as the sun is out for nearly 5-6 hours everyday. Being a metropolitan city, Madrid is bustling with activity and as a result you will never run out of things to do and places to see. If you are a museum buff, this city is your haven. The Prado National Museum , Reina Sofia Museum , Museo del Romanticismo, Sorolla Museum - these are just a few of the many, many museums you can spend hours and hours at in Madrid. Madrid is also well known for its electric nightlife scene, housing some of the world’s most popular clubs and restaurants. Apart from the usual, in February, Madrid hosts its annual Carnival - a massive celebration with theatrical parades, live performances, fun activities and a lovely, joyous atmosphere all round the city. Don’t miss the famous burying of the sardines!

One Day in Madrid | Madrid to Segovia | Madrid to Toledo | Santiago Bernabeu Tour | Reina Sofia Museum | Prado Museum

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Barcelona, spain, average high: 18°c | average low: 12°c.

Sometimes it’s better to visit a destination during the off season and Barcelona is one of them. Barcelona cradles the Mediterranean Sea and its summers can be hot and humid. The best way to avoid the heat and crowds is to visit Barcelona in November when the day time temperatures are pleasant and nights cool. You can enjoy shorter queues at Sagrada Familia and Gaudi’s landmarks like Park Guell and Casa Mila. Catch a game or tour at the Camp Nou Stadium and enjoy walking the city. You also get to indulge in autumn celebrations like mushroom foraging, the Chestnut party ‘La Castanyada’ and enjoy cultural festivals like Voll-Damm Jazz Festival and Independent Film Festival of Barcelona.

Read More About Barcelona In November

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Seville, spain, average high: 20°c | average low: 10°c.

The fragrance of the orange orchards in the Mudéjar Palaces travel far and wide, and the Andalusian sun feels warm in Seville in November. The capital of Andalusia is one of the best places to go in Europe in November because winter is here just fabulous! It is the only time of the year when you can enjoy walking outdoors without the sharp heat. It is a great time to admire the city’s Mudéjar architecture in the Royal Alcazar and La Giralda, and Gothic architecture in Seville Cathedral. Take a walking tour and stroll down the medieval lanes that seem stuck in time and savor the authentic cuisine. Don’t forget to attend a Flamenco show!

Score Last Minute Alcazar Seville Tickets | Seville Cathedral | Alcazar Seville

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Budapest, hungary, average high: 9°c | average low: 4°c.

Nothing is more relaxing than beating the cold on wintery November nights by soaking in a hot thermal spring bath in Budapest. There are enough reasons to travel to Budapest all year round but its energetic vibe and list of events makes it one of the best places to go in Europe in November. Budapest’s architecture will amaze you and a walking tour is the best way to explore the Hungarian Parliament and the towns of Buda and Pest. November is one of the wettest months, so get your waterproof gear on and hop on a HOHO bus that will take you across the sights. Enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine on the feast day of St. Martin’s Day and sample the best wine and cheese.

Read More About Budapest In November

Budapest Itineraries | Best Day Trips from Budapest | Battle of the Budapest Baths | Budapest River Cruises | Best Time To Visit Budapest

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Florence, italy, average high: 15°c | average low: 6°c.

Florence is opulence epitomized! From art and architecture to fashion and food, the city offers the best of everything and it is one of the best year-round destinations in Europe. Florence in November takes on an utterly dramatic atmosphere; it is one of the wettest months of the year. Get your rain gear in place and take cover at one of the fabulous museums ranging from iconic Duomo to the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries. The city is the capital of the Tuscan region and you must take a road trip to enjoy the pleasures of the best wine and food of Tuscany. In November, spend your days walking the streets and shopping in the hometown of Gucci and Ferragamo, and end your days with an exquisite wine dinner.

Read More About Florence In November

One Day In Florence | Chianti Wine Tour From Florence | Florence to Cinque Terre | Florence Duomo | Accademia Gallery | Uffizi Gallery

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Rome, italy, average high: 17°c | average low: 7°c.

For over 2,000 years all roads led to Rome, and even today the city is a must-visit destination on any Europe itinerary. In November, the temperatures cool down and it becomes pleasurable to explore the ruins of Roman Forum, Palatine Hill and Colosseum in the beautiful autumn weather. While the Vatican is always a busy destination, in November there is a cooling period when you can experience fewer crowds and enjoy the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums at peace. Celebrate All Saints Day and other cultural events like Rome International Film Festival and Rome Europa Festival in November. The best way to explore the city is on a guided walking tour, as you tread the same paths as kings and royalty of yore!

Read More About Rome In November

Rome Itineraries | Rome On A Budget | Rome Travel Guide | Trastevere Guide | Rome Food Tours | Best Guided Tours In Rome | Piazza Navona

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Venice, italy, average high: 12°c | average low: 5°c.

Eager to walk across the cobblestone streets and stroll across the numerous bridges in Venice, without bumping into throngs of other tourists? November is the best chance for you to do that! Venice in November is in the tourist low season, partly due to its cold weather and the moderate rainfall. But don’t let that stop you because it is a great time to enjoy Venice as a local would do. Take a gondola ride and witness the beauty of Venetian architecture along the Grand Canal, or go on a walking tour of San Marco Plaza, Doge’s Palace or head in the back lanes to experience the quaint atmosphere of narrow canals and houses that seem to float in the water.

Read More About Venice In November

Venice Itineraries | Venice For Couples | Best Museums In Venice | St. Mark’s Square | Gondola Guide | Venice Travel Guide | Venice Passes

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Paris, france, average high: 11°c | average low: 6°c.

Budget travelers can revel in ‘Joie de Vivre’ in Paris in November without pinching their pockets! Paris finds it way on this list of best places to go in Europe in November for the great deals it affords on airfares and accommodation given the low tourist season. While the days get shorter and the cold gets sharper, there is enough to explore and enjoy in Paris indoors as well. Go on guided tours of the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, or set out on a heated batobus cruise on the Seine. Enjoy the music festivals or end your day at an exotic Cabaret show. If you are traveling with kids, then make a pitstop at Disneyland Paris for memories of a lifetime!

Read More About Paris In November

Paris Itineraries | Paris Travel Guide | Paris on a Budget | Seine Dinner Cruises | Paris Deals & Offers | Paris City Passes | Best Paris Cabarets

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Europe through the year.

Best Places To Visit In Europe In January

Best Places To Visit In Europe In February

Best Places To Visit In Europe In March

Best Places To Visit In Europe In April

Best Places To Visit In Europe In May

Best Places To Visit In Europe In June

Best Places To Visit In Europe In July

Best Places To Visit In Europe In August

Best Places To Visit In Europe In September

Best Places To Visit In Europe In October

Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Best Places To Visit In Europe In December

Shilpa Kulkarni

Shilpa grew up trekking and camping in the forests of South India, watching baby elephants accompany their mother to the river, dreaming of becoming a naturalist. Life got in the way, an MBA happened and a sales job followed, but soon enough she had a moment of epiphany and quit the corporate race to become a freelance travel writer. Now, she virtually travels across the globe inspiring people to travel through her writing, while plotting her next trip.

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Europe in Autumn: Where to Go in September, October, and November

[Last updated July 31, 2023] For travelers averse to Europe’s summer crowds, heat, and prices, autumn is an ideal season to visit many parts of the continent. What’s more, Europe puts on a good show this time of year—from displays of fall colors in storied forests to festivals celebrating harvests, holidays, the arts, and beer. All that and sweater weather, too? This is no shoulder season to shrug off. Here are our favorite places in Europe for a vacation in September, October, and November.  Pictured: the Belvedere Palace in Vienna For more seasonal travel ideas, check out our roundups of great European destinations in spring and  summer .

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To celebrate beer and Bavarian culture at Oktoberfest If your idea of Germany involves beer, pretzels, and lederhosen, you’re probably thinking of Bavaria in the country’s southeast corner. And while there’s a lot more to this historic region beyond the oompah stereotypes, those traditions are wholeheartedly embraced during Oktoberfest in Munich , the Bavarian capital. Kicking off in late September (name notwithstanding) and lasting through early October, the world’s largest beer festival draws millions of revelers to the Theresienwiese fairgrounds for steins of Bavarian brews as well as sausages, soft pretzels, carnival rides, and sing-alongs to live music. While you’re in town, feast your eyes on Munich’s elaborate Residenz palace, rococo churches, and central Marienplatz square, where a glockenspiel with mechanical figures displays timed reenactments of 16th-century events to the accompaniment of chiming bells.  

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To get spooky where Halloween was (maybe) born The Irish are known as tellers of tall tales. But according to recent archaeological evidence, they may be correct in their claim that Halloween originated on their island. The Púca Festival pays tribute to the proto-Halloween tradition of Samhain, the time at summer’s end when Celts believed spirits passed from one world to the next. Counties Meath and Louth in eastern Ireland are the center of the action, hosting four days of concerts, spooky gatherings, and culinary events around October 31. That celebration joins Dublin 's more established Bram Stoker Festival honoring the Irish author of Dracula . All sorts of goth goings-on—costume parades (pictured), ghost tours, eerie performances—take over the city in late October. Autumn is also the time for horse racing, traditional music get-togethers, and “Walking Festivals,” which involve hikers setting out en masse to discover the country’s natural beauty spots just as the leaves begin to turn.

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To say goodbye to summer with human towers and fireworks In September, Barcelona says adéu to summer with La Mercè , a huge street party thrown for the city’s patron saint, Our Lady of Mercy. Held in the days leading up to the saint’s feast day, September 24, the event showcases some uniquely Catalonian ways of having a good time, from building human towers several stories high in the Plaça Sant Jaume to throwing night parades called correfocs (“fire runs”), during which locals dressed as devils and operating fearsome dragon puppets set handheld fireworks ablaze, often spraying spectators with sparks (stand back from the action if you don’t want to get singed). After the festival ends, Barcelona’s warm and sunny weather continues for another month or so—you can usually go swimming in the Mediterranean into early October. You will definitely encounter crowds, but competition from other tourists scrambling to sample the city’s Gaudí- and seafood-related delights should be less fierce than in summertime.

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To hang on to summer Speaking of Mediterranean spots where you can get an extension on summer, the archipelago of Malta , floating between Sicily and Tunisia, also enjoys beach weather into October. The islands’ lagoons, coastal rock formations, and stretches of reddish sand are certainly inviting, but the sunny climate pairs well with walks through historic towns and ancient temples as well. Malta’s seemingly endless series of invaders has resulted in an art history textbook's worth of architectural styles as well as hidden treasures such as the underground Hypogeum burial chambers and a pair of Caravaggio paintings stashed in the 16th-century St. John’s Co-Cathedral in Valletta , the nation’s walled capital city. On the island of Gozo —which has inspired creative types from Homer (who’s said to have had Gozo in mind when he created Calypso’s tantalizing isle in The Odyssey ) to Game of Thrones location scouts—renowned opera and symphonic performances take place in October and November as part of the annual Festival Mediterranea . Pictured: the harbor in Marsaxlokk  

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To attend fêtes for jazz, wine, art, and more The time of renewal following the long summer break is the perfect occasion for Parisians to get back to business—meaning fall festivals. Jazz à la Villette , an 11-day festival in September, schedules experimental music, tribute concerts, and kids’ programming in and around Parc de la Villette . The first Saturday in October is the Nuit Blanche (or White Night), a 7pm-to-7am arts extravaganza when galleries and museums stay open, dance parties thump, and playful installations create urban magic. The same month’s La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre , or the Grape Harvest Festival, honors the fruits of the only vineyard in Paris  (pictured). Located in the Amélie arrondissement, the five-day fest welcomes close to 500,000 people a year for live music, charcuterie, oysters, parades, fireworks, and, of course, wine. For generalists who don’t like time constraints, you can’t beat the Festival d’Automne à Paris . From September all the way to December, over 40 venues showcase the best in theater, music, dance, film, and visual arts. 

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To admire fall colors—er, "colours" When it comes to fall colors, New England hogs the spotlight this time of year, but old England puts on an impressive autumnal display, too. The Wye Valley, straddling the border between England and Wales , has plenty of colorful leaves to peep during hikes through the ancient Forest of Dean and visits to castles and former hunting lodges in Gloucestershire villages like St. Briavels and Coleford . Equally eye-popping on the Wales side is Tintern Abbey , the 12th-century roofless ruin that got Romantic poet William Wordsworth all worked up. Elsewhere in the valley, the surfable Severn Bore , a tidal wave on the River Severn, tends to surge around the time of the equinox in September. Fall is also primetime at the hundreds of apple orchards along the cider route in Herefordshire . 

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To avoid the summertime throng Like Barcelona, Amsterdam is stuffed with tourists for most of the year, but your best bet for encountering manageable crowds and decent weather at the same time is the period from September to November, after the summer rush has ended (show up in the spring and you’ll contend with tulip mania). Still, despite average autumn temps around 60°F (15.5°C), things can turn damp and chilly unexpectedly, so pack extra layers for cruises along the city’s canals or bike rides in Vondelpark . Notable fall entries on the fun-loving town’s busy calendar of events include the Amsterdam Music Festival (mid-October), the Afrovibes showcase of performing artists from Africa (early October), and the weekend in September when historic monuments, government buildings, and homes across Amsterdam are opened to the public, free of charge.

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To hike the Alps the Swiss way In the mountains of Switzerland , hiking trails can be covered with snow into the late spring and filled with tourists during summer, making early fall—before the winds pick up in November—the sweet spot for experiencing the Swiss Alps. And because outdoor ambles have been an ingrained part of Swiss culture for centuries, paths are well-maintained and accessible for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. You’d be hard-pressed to find an unattractive route in this landscape of peaks, meadows, forests, and lakes. But if you’re looking for a spot that has all of the country’s best attributes, base yourself in lakeside Lucerne . For an entirely different vibe, try Ticino in southern Switzerland, which has more in common with Italy than Heidi. The vista-rich Gotthard Panorama Express train connects the two towns from April into mid-October.

WHY GO IN AUTUMN? To live the good life at palaces and vineyards With its classical music concerts, pastry-purveying cafés, orderly gardens, and elegant palaces housing Hapsburg treasures and must-see art museums, Vienna is always a rewarding choice if you’re into fine living.  Several annual events make the city especially enticing in autumn. On one night in early October, just about every museum in town welcomes visitors for special exhibits, performances, and other surprises into the wee hours. Later that same month, moviemakers and cinephiles descend on the historic center for the venerable Vienna International Film Festival . And on Vienna Wine Hiking Day at the end of September, visitors are invited to explore the 700 hectares (1,700 acres) of vineyards within city limits, stopping along the way for wine samples and views of the Danube and Vienna Woods. Pictured: Schönbrunn Palace

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6 Best European countries to visit in Summer 2024

E uropean countries are no less than an avid traveler's dream destination. Famous for their sun-kissed beaches, historical ruins, five-star resorts, and spas, myriad landscapes, adventure sports, architectural glory, and gastronomic delicacies, European countries promise a magical getaway for travelers, especially in summer.

With more than 50 European countries worth adding to a traveler's bucket list, it is difficult to pick the best destination. To make it a cakewalk, Team Sportskeeda has curated a list of 6 European countries to visit in the summer of 2024.

Note: This list is purely based on writer's opinion. We might have missed a few destinations, let us know your opinion in the comments below.

6 European countries to visit in summer 2024

Here is a list of 6 best European countries that one can visit to make their 2024 summer-travelling experience a memorable one:

• France: the land of romance
• Italy: Haven for art and cuisine
• Spain: Sun-kissed beaches and Flamenco rhythms
• Greece: Mythical legends and idyllic islands
• Netherlands: Tulip fields and picturesque canals
• Portugal: A tapestry of historical and coastal grandeur

1) France: The land of romance

France, known as the epitome of romance, beckons with its charming hamlets, townships, exquisite vineyards, and timeless landmarks. Start the travel plan with the most special destination, Eiffel Tower, in Paris, then savor fine wines in Bordeaux and enjoy a lazy stroll through the panoramic streets and alleys of Provence. France truly offers an enchanting mix of history and modernity

• Best time: Late spring to early summer
• Local attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Versailles Palace, Bordeaux vineyards
• Activities: Wine tasting, countryside tours, cultural festivals
• Local stay: Paris boutique hotels, Bordeaux vineyards estates
• Nearest airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
• Local delicacies: Croissants, escargot, coq au vin
• Best bistros and cafes: Le Jules Verne, Le Chapon Fin, Chez l'Ami Jean
• Local language: French
• European currency : Euro (EUR)

2) Italy: Haven for art and cuisine

A treasure trove of art, architecture, and delectable cuisine , Italy fascinates travelers with its age-old beauty. Enjoy the view of ancient Roman ruins, Venice's tranquil canals, gondola rides and the Amalfi Coast's picturesque beauty. Italy is undoubtedly a melting pot of history, culture, and culinary delights.

• Local attractions: Colosseum, Vatican City, Florence Cathedral
• Activities: Gondola rides, wine tastings, historical tours
• Local stay: Rome's boutique hotels, Amalfi's waterfront villas
• Nearest airport: Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (Rome)
• Local delicacies: Pizza, pasta, gelato
• Best bistros and cafes: Osteria Francescana, La Pergola, Antica Pesa
• Local language: Italian
• European currency: Euro (EUR)

Read more: 6 best Spring destinations in the world to take a family vacation

3) Spain: Sun-kissed beaches and Flamenco rhythms

Spain is applauded for its vibrant fiestas, bullfights, sun-drenched beaches, and magnetic flamenco music . Whether one wants to explore Barcelona's architectural wonders, eat Madrid's tapas, or just unwind on the pristine beaches of Ibiza, Spain promises an exhilarating escapade with a mix of culture and relaxation.

• Local attractions: Sagrada Familia, Alhambra, and Park Güell
• Activities: Flamenco shows, bullfights, beach hopping, culinary tours
• Local stay: Costa del Sol's luxury resorts, Barcelona's boutique hotels, homestays
• Nearest airport: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport
• Local delicacies: Tapas, paella, and churros
• Best bistros and cafes: El Celler de Can Roca, Tickets, Arzak
• Local language: Spanish

4) Greece: Mythical legends and idyllic islands

Steeped in mythical legends and adorned with idyllic islands, the ancient wonders of Greece invite vacationers to immerse themselves in its beauty and warm hospitality. Ranging from Athens' ancient ruins to Cyclades island-hopping, Greece is a natural wonder. Tourists can relish in delectable Mediterranean cuisine, or enjoy their wine in Santorini.

• Local attractions: Acropolis, Santorini, Mykonos
• Activities: Island hopping, historical tours, water sports
• Local stay: Santorini's luxury resorts, Athens' boutique hotels
• Nearest airport: Athens International Airport
• Local delicacies: Souvlaki, moussaka, and baklava
• Best bistros and cafes: Funky Gourmet, Selene, Karamanlidika
• Local language: Greek

Read more: 7 Best Places to Visit in Summer 2024

5) Netherlands: Tulip fields and picturesque canals

The Netherlands is a vibrant land of blooming tulip fields (Keukenhof Gardens) , scenic Amsterdam canal cruises, and Kinderdijk's giant windmills. Make the most of your summer vacation as the Netherlands promises a serene and dramatic adventure for every travel enthusiast.

• Local attractions: Keukenhof Gardens, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House
• Activities: Canal cruising, cycling tours, tulip festivals
• Local stay: Amsterdam's boutique hotels, countryside B&Bs, cozy homestays
• Nearest airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
• Local delicacies: Stroopwafel, bitterballen, herring
• Best bistros and cafes: De Librije, Restaurant De Kas, Breda
• Local language: Dutch

6) Portugal: A tapestry of historical and coastal grandeur

Cherished for its woven tapestry of historical charm and coastal beauty, Portugal attracts vacationers to its medieval castles, hamlets, and immaculate shorelines. A holiday -maker has a lot to do in Portugal - wandering through Lisbon's cobbled streets, basking in the sun-kissed Algarve region, or savoring delicious seafood along the coast.

• Local attractions: Belem Tower, Pena Palace, and Douro Valley
• Activities: Wine tasting and vineyard tours, beach lazing, historical tours
• Local stay: Algarve's luxury inns, Lisbon's boutique hotels
• Nearest airport: Lisbon Portela Airport
• Local delicacies: Pastel de nata, bacalhau, grilled sardines
• Best bistros and cafes: Belcanto, The Yeatman, Cervejaria Ramiro
• Local language: Portuguese

Read more: 8 Best places to travel in March 2024

With these six spectacular destinations awaiting a travel enthusiast's discovery, these 6 European countries are poised to offer an unforgettable vacation in the summer of 2024. So, all the spirited vacationers out there - pack your bags, make a travel itinerary, and start onboarding!

See Europe as the Europeans do this summer with these pro tips | Cruising Altitude

Americans are heading to Europe for vacation as much as ever these days, and that means the typical tourist spots like Venice, Paris and London are sure to be crowded this year. But, because this is Cruising Altitude, we’ll look at the aviation angle first.

First and foremost: If you’re really determined to go to Europe this summer and haven’t booked yet, stop reading now and get on it. 

“I’ve never seen a year like this … We’re at the point where there’s no more availability,” Brigitte Armand, President of Eurobound , a tour organizer that specializes in European packages, told me. “Book as quickly as possible.” 

How to get around

According to Armand, trains are generally a great way to get from place to place within Europe, but for farther-flung stops, the continent’s network of low-cost airlines offers travelers a reliable alternative.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Don’t think of one airline as being your network and entry point within Europe,” Laura Lindsay, public relations director at online booking platform Skyscanner told me.

She said if you’re flying to Europe from the U.S., you may well rely on a large network carrier like British Airways, KLM or Lufthansa to get across the Atlantic and then book your intra-European flights separately.

“You’re suddenly opening up Europe in a different way if you search for different airports and multiple airlines,” Lindsay said. “It’s pretty straightforward to get around, so don’t feel put off by jumping through a few different countries or trying a few different destinations.” 

Tips for European airlines

According to Lindsay, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air often have stricter baggage policies like American ULCCs Spirit and Frontier.

“(The) top tip would be always make sure you understand the luggage allowance that is part of your ticket,” she said. “More often than not, don’t book the basic fare without checking.”

It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your airports and dates of travel if you want to get the best deals on those shorter flights.

“You’ll get a number of places that have more than one airport,” Lindsay said, noting that Skyscanner has a tool that allows travelers to search for flights to or from nearby airports when choosing a destination. “Just getting a map out and actually looking at where exactly you want to travel and where the nearby airports are.” 

Armand added that if you take the train instead, you may need to secure a reservation in advance, particularly for some of the more tourist-heavy routes like panoramic trains in Switzerland. 

Last week's Cruising Altitude: There was no Golden Age of flying. We're in it now.

Where to go

If you really want to summer like a European, you should consider places a little more off the radar for most Americans.

“Albania is somewhere that broke through a couple of years ago as somewhere that people recognized as offering a huge value for money,” Lindsay said. “Sarajevo is reporting its busiest April on record for travelers.”

Armand said it can also be a good idea to try different parts of countries that are already popular if you want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

“We recently arranged a whole trip for some clients in the Abruzzo region of Italy,” she said. “The Abruzzo region, it’s on the Adriatic, people don’t know this region, and I think this is the first time ever we put together a package to get to that region.” 

Data from Skyscanner shows that some destinations in Europe are picking up in popularity with travelers on the continent. Here are some of the trends that are bubbling up year over year from 2023 to 2024.

• Ljubljana, Slovenia, saw a 188% increase in searches from Spanish travelers
• Tromso, Norway, saw a 130% increase in interest from Italian holidaymakers
• Dusseldorf had a 122% spike in interest from Brits

According to Armand, the best last-minute availability seems to be in eastern Europe, like Bulgaria and Poland.

“There are some good deals there perhaps, even the Czech Republic I’m finding some decent space,” she said.

So go on, get packing.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].