good travel destinations november

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in november 2024.

November may seem like an inconvenient time to vacation due to Thanksgiving at the end of the month, but there are benefits to traveling at the end of the fall shoulder season. Crowds at popular destinations are a thing of the past, and hotel rates are often brilliantly low. U.S. News took into account these factors (and more) and considered a variety of destinations, from outdoorsy spots to big cities to small towns, both domestically and abroad, to compile the best places to visit in November. Want to put in your 2 cents'? Vote below to influence next year's list.

Argentine Patagonia

Big bend national park, new york city, shenandoah national park.

Travelers seeking a cheap European vacation should consider a November getaway to Portugal's capital city. Temperatures remain comfortably in the 50s and 60s throughout the month, and although you can expect an increase in precipitation, the lack of crowds and inexpensive hotel prices more than make up for the rain. You'll appreciate the extra elbow room while riding Tram 28, a must-see Lisbon symbol that takes tourists past top sights like St. George's Castle and many beautiful miradouros (scenic viewpoints). What's more, the popular yellow tram provides easy access to Alfama, Lisbon's picturesque historic district.

A trip to the Swiss Alps in November appeals to those who want to save some money and avoid the peak ski season crowds. Ski season doesn't officially start until December, but there are several cable cars and ski resorts, including Saas-Fee and Zermatt, that may open early if they see snowfall. If you arrive before the snow, don't fret: You can trade shredding powder for hiking or biking various resorts' trails. Meanwhile, non-skiers will want to head to Geneva in early November to experience the annual Geneva International Film Festival.

Reasons to visit Chiang Mai in November are multifold. Not only will you enjoy dry weather and highs in the mid-80s, but you will also have the opportunity to attend festivals like Yi Peng and Loy Krathong. Spend your days touring historic temples like Wat Chedi Luang and Wat Phra Singh, and in the evening, engage in some retail therapy at the famous Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. With so many attractions and a stunning Old City to explore, it's no surprise that Chiang Mai is one of the best places to visit in Thailand .

The Maldives is consistently warm year-round, but some of the best weather happens during its dry season. November marks the beginning of the transition out of the wet season, offering sunnier days that are ideal for lounging on the island nation's white sand beaches and enjoying water sports activities like windsurfing and Jet Skiing. Thanks to the decrease in rainfall, this is also one of the best times for snorkeling and scuba diving. When you need a break from the beach, take a speedboat to the capital city of Malé, where there are plenty of sights, markets and restaurants to explore.

Spring is in full swing in Argentine Patagonia in November. The month's comfortable daytime temperatures, which rest in the 60s, are perfect for exploring Argentine Patagonia's many natural wonders. Visit Punta Tombo and Peninsula Valdés in Atlantic Patagonia to look for marine wildlife like orcas, Magellanic penguins and sea lions. Or, head to the Argentine Lake District or Southern Patagonia to hike, ride horses and go whitewater rafting. Though the journey to Argentine Patagonia is long, its jaw-dropping scenery and affordable lodging make a November trip well worth the effort.

The second-largest city in Cambodia is ready for tourists come November. Chance of rain decreases as Siem Reap heads into its dry season, and average temperatures rest in the 80s and 90s during the day. Top attractions here include Angkor Wat, Bayon and Ta Prohm temples, along with the Cambodian Landmine Museum and Angkor National Museum. Plus, November brings the city's annual Cambodian Water Festival, a multi-day event complete with boat races, live music and food.

If you can look past the increase in rainfall, Crete in November yields some pretty big wins. Not only do hotel prices fall and crowds thin out, but several events also take place throughout the month. Visit during St. Minas Parade on Nov. 11 or time your trip for the Tsikoudia Festival, a celebration of the art of raki making. Although this isn't the prime time for relaxing on Crete's beaches, travelers will enjoy checking out top attractions like the Palace of Knossos and wandering through Rethymno Old Town. Be sure to book your accommodations in advance, as many resorts will be closed for the season.

Though you can expect chilly weather (think: average temperatures in the mid-40s), a November trip to Hungary's capital city is well worth your while. The hordes of tourists who descend on Budapest come summer have left, making it a prime time for scoring hotel deals. Take advantage of the relative quiet by warming up with a relaxing soak in Budapest's thermal baths or touring the Hungarian House of Parliament building. Just don't forget to save time for exploring Fisherman's Bastion, a neo-Gothic style structure boasting lookout towers and terraces with panoramic views of the city.

Situated on the southern coast of Croatia overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik boasts grand medieval architecture and fascinating historical sites. Average temperatures sit in the mid-60s in November and rainy days are likely, so this isn't the best time to lounge on the city's picture-perfect beaches . But it is the best time to visit for travelers hoping to avoid the crowds and protect their wallets. You'll find shorter lines at popular attractions like the Walls of Dubrovnik, and you'll rub elbows with fewer strangers when strolling through Dubrovnik's scenic Old Town.

Located along the U.S.-Mexico border, Big Bend National Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Spanning 800,000-plus acres and featuring more than 150 miles of hiking trails, this Texas national park receives upward of 500,000 visitors per year. Although you'll no doubt encounter other tourists during your vacation (November kicks off the park's peak fall season), the pleasant temperatures in the 60s and 70s are worth battling the crowds. Because of the park's popularity during this time, be sure to book your accommodations early.

Visiting Istanbul during the city's shoulder season provides several perks. Summer tourists have vacated, leaving behind crowd-free attractions and affordable room rates. Plus, average temperatures are still comfortable in the 50s and 60s, meaning travelers don't need to worry about packing their snow boots (although rain is likely). Spend your vacation exploring this Turkish city's gorgeous mosques (the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are must-visit landmarks), perusing the Topkapi Palace Museum or strolling through the Besiktas and Beyoglu districts for a taste of local culture.

Visit Curacao at the end of its offseason to score major deals on airfare and accommodations. Though you'll come across some rain during a November vacation, you won't have to worry about the threat of a hurricane thanks to the island nation's location outside of the Caribbean's hurricane belt. Luckily, showers mostly occur at night, leaving you plenty of time to soak up some sun on the island's white sand beaches . Head to Playa Lagun or Cas Abao Beach to swim and snorkel, or take a stroll down the Handelskade pier to admire the colorful buildings and gorgeous water.

Sitting about 70 miles southeast of Portland in the Mount Hood National Forest, Mount Hood is the highest point in Oregon. It is also one of the most-climbed mountains in the world, making it a popular getaway destination for adventure travelers. A perfect November itinerary will include activities like sledding, riding the Mount Hood Christmas Train and skiing (ski season can start as soon as early to mid-November on the mountain). In the evening, warm up by the fireplace at one of the destination's many cozy lodges and inns.

A November getaway to the Big Apple means cooler temperatures and plenty of entertaining events, including the New York Comedy Festival. Travelers can admire the stunning fall colors that paint Central Park, check the exhibits on display at the world-famous Metropolitan Museum of Art or go ice skating at one of the many rinks that open around the holidays. Keep in mind, during popular events like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the New York City Marathon, crowds descend on the city and hotel prices surge.

Shenandoah National Park's stunning fall foliage and comfortable weather (think: temperatures in the low 50s to low 60s) last through mid-November, making this a great time to take in the landscape while exploring the park. Hit up the Virginia park's miles of hiking trails, including popular (albeit challenging) Old Rag Mountain and Fort Windham Rocks, which is part of the Appalachian Trail. Or, bring a bike and enjoy a scenic ride down tree-lined Skyline Drive.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Isla Mujeres

You may be interested in.

Best Fall Vacations

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Places to Visit in October 2024

Best Places to Visit in December 2024

Best U.S. National Parks for 2024

World's Best Places to Visit for 2023-2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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

Charley Ward

CNT Editors

Alessia Armenise

Olivia Morelli

 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 Best Places to Travel in November

By Caitlin Morton

Tucked between fall getaways and winter holidays, November is one of the best months for a socially-distanced vacation (read: fewer crowds). It’s also a great time to use up your remaining vacation days before the end of the year, whether you want to escape the increasingly chilly weather or extend your Thanksgiving break into a memorable international trip. Here, we’ve rounded up 8 of the best places to travel in November, from Thailand to the Caribbean.

Due to the Delta variant of coronavirus , it’s a good idea to consider extra precautions if traveling this fall. We recommend investing in “ cancel for any reason ” travel insurance and only booking changeable flights and accommodations. It’s also crucial to obtain medical insurance that will cover you abroad, and to research each country’s case and vaccination rates when choosing your destination.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

The Seychelles

Off the coast of Kenya, the 115 coral and granite islands of the Seychelles are home to lush jungles, spectacular waterfalls, pristine beaches, and some of the most beautiful resorts on the planet. The country also just so happens to be one of the best places to travel in November, representing a break between the humid northwest trade winds and the cooler southeast trade winds. In other words? The weather is absolutely perfect. You’ll also dodge the December high season, allowing you to really enjoy your sunbathing and scuba diving uninterrupted. 

For what may end up being the most luxurious experience of your life, stay in one of the 11 fantasy villas at North Island . Bookended by a lush forest and coral-rich water, the resort offers every paradisiacal amenity, from marble tubs and outdoor showers to chefs that prepare meals right in your suite. Good luck returning to your snowy hometown after that.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

A trip to the Berkshires is like jumping into the pages of an Edith Wharton novel, with Gilded Age mansions and throes of New York City weekenders. (You can even visit Wharton’s own house and gardens.) You could easily spend a few days casually exploring the region’s antique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and luxury spas, but the main seasonal draw is, of course, the fall foliage—the trees are still colorful in mid-November here. Get the best views from the top of Mount Greylock, where you can see up to 90 miles away when the air is clear. 

One of the newest (and best) places to set up camp is Miraval Berkshires in the charming town of Lenox, where horse stables and cottage-style rooms will make you feel like you’re at an upscale sleepaway camp.

November is shoulder season in Panama, as the wet weather of the winter disperses but the prices remain lower than in summer. It’s also when celebrations take place to mark the founding of the country—not once, but twice. On November 28, locals mark Independence Day, when this chunk of central America broke away from colonial Spain in 1821; November 3 is Separation Day, when Panama emerged as a self-governing country separate from Gran Colombia 82 years later. Traditionally, it’s an excuse for the entire month to feel like a party, with parades and fireworks held on a regular basis, all accompanied by thumping drum music. 

Book a stay at the American Trade Hotel in Panama City, a 50-room building overlooking the popular Plaza Herrera. Try to score a room on the fourth floor, where you can see ships gliding through the Bay of Panama.

Canouan, St. Vincent and the Grenadines

A small, barely five-square-mile nation in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Canouan is one of the Caribbean's best kept secrets. It’s easy to see the island’s appeal the minute you step foot here: Golf carts replace cars, tortoises outnumber humans, hummingbirds flit between the lush foliage, and golden beaches line clear, pool-like ocean water. 

Canouan is slowly making an international name for itself thanks to a recent flurry of luxury hotel openings, the most notable of which is the Mandarin Oriental . Situated on 1,200 acres and featuring only 26 suites and 13 villas, the resort offers activities like snorkeling and windsurfing, an 18-hole golf course, Caribbean excursions on a luxury yacht, and guided hikes up Mount Royal. But if you want to spend most of your time at the award-winning spa, we certainly wouldn’t judge.

Emily Zemler

Lauren Dana Ellman

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Though often overlooked for Tuscany’s bucolic hills and the Amalfi Coast’s glittering villages, Emilia-Romagna is ready for its spotlight. The region shines in the autumn months, with temperatures hovering in the low 60s and festivals popping up to celebrate the area’s food and wine. Starting in October and stretching through November 9, the annual Tartufesta (White Truffle Festival) returns this year to the small village surrounding Bologna, complete with markets, tasting menus, and truffle-hunting tours. 

Another notable event is Baccanale in the town of Imola (Oct. 30–Nov. 21), a multi-week festival focusing on a specific aspect of local gastronomy. This year’s theme is “Amola” (which translates to “bitter”), focusing on the often unappreciated flavor profile of products like coffee, citrus fruits, artichokes, and thistles. 

Film lovers should also consider a trip to Emilia-Romagna, as a new museum dedicated to filmmaker Federico Fellini just opened in August in the seaside city of Rimini (Fellini’s hometown). The Federico Fellini International Museum is located in Sismondo Castle, and includes replicated film sets, original scripts and costumes, and Fellini movies played on a loop. La dolce vita, indeed.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

The Thai government plans to reopen Chiang Mai on October 1 as part of the second phase of the country’s reopening timeline, which is obviously great news for travelers. The news feels even greater when you remember that November marks Chiang Mai’s annual Yi Peng lantern festival. Every year, on the full moon of the twelfth month of the Thai lunar calendar (Nov. 19-20 this year), the skies fill with thousands of glowing orange paper lanterns, which are released as a way of letting go of anything negative from the past year and inviting in the positive moving forward. 

There are tons of other reasons to visit Thailand's northern cultural capital, of course, from the thriving arts and design scene to steaming bowls of khao soi. When it comes to accommodations, you can’t do much better than Anantara Chiang Mai Resort . Although it’s just a short tuk tuk ride away from Old Town, the property feels more like a country retreat, thanks to a bamboo wall encircling the entire resort, rooms with super-sized terraces, an infinity pool surrounded by lily ponds, and a decadent afternoon tea service.

Come hungry to St. Barts this November, when the island hosts its eighth annual Gourmet Festival from Nov. 10-14. A collection of 11 French chefs with Michelin-starred restaurants will cook and host a series of exclusive dinners, as well as wine-tastings and amateur cooking competitions. 

Another huge reason to visit the Caribbean island is the eternally chic Eden Rock hotel, which continues to be a favorite among our readers and editors. Fresh off a 2020 renovation, the property boasts suites with private plunge pools, views of the impossibly blue ocean, and some of the most spacious bathrooms you’ve ever seen. Just one night here will make you feel like the most glam, sun-kissed version of yourself.

Want to make Thanksgiving extra memorable this year? Head to Ireland, where your family can enjoy a holiday feast in an actual Irish castle. The 450-acre Dromoland Castle in County Clare is offering a special Thanksgiving package to guests from November 23–28, complete with the aforementioned feast, roaring fires, fine whiskeys, woodland walks, and a round of golf or two. 

The castle dates back to the 16th century but recently underwent a $23 million renovation, meaning you can enjoy traditional decor and architectural details (arched windows, spiral staircases, and more) with modern touches like flatscreen TVs and outdoor hot tubs. The castle is also an easy drive away from the Cliffs of Moher, letting you experience one of the world’s most beautiful sites with ease.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

15 Best Places to Visit in November, According to Travel Experts

Make this the year you travel to these top spots in the U.S., Europe and beyond.

Our advice: Secure your PTO, and go, go, go. Our staff members have been traveling all around the world in order to find the best destinations and hotels for GH's annual Family Travel Awards , and they provided a handful of awesome fall-focused picks for this list. We added in some suggestions from travel experts, and, voila, here's a list of 15 budget-friendly vacation spots for November.

Some picks, like Seattle and Jackson Hole, Wyoming, are awesome destinations for all ages. Places like Gaylord National Harbor outside of Washington, D.C., will wow the kids in particular. Or ask the grandparents to babysit and take a couples trip . We included a few choices for grownups-only getaways.

It's a lot to take in, for sure, so set aside some time over the weekend to explore the possibilities. A break now may be exactly what you need to get through the holidays.

Scottsdale, Arizona

Temperatures are finally cooling down in Scottsdale, making November a fantastic time to visit this adventure-filled destination. Fall marks the return of sunset horseback rides at the 30,500-acre McDowell Sonoran Preserve , a protected desert habitat that is serious cacti goals.

Besides riding, the preserve rocks for its mountain biking and guided hiking. The Bajada Nature Trail is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly while the Gateway Loop Trail, a 4.4-mile loop, offers a moderately challenging experience for families with tweens. And perhaps coolest of all, hot air balloon rides allow families to see the desert from a different vantage point.

When your crew is ready for some water fun, hop from the city center to Saguaro Lake or the Lower Salt River, for kayaking, rafting and stand-up paddleboarding. Stay at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch , which is just wrapping up a huge renovation.

Orlando, Florida

It's your last chance to sample all the incredible eats and drinks at Epcot's International Food and Wine Festival , running through November 18, 2023, at Walt Disney World.

"My favorite dish is the Spicy Githeri [an African meal with beans and quinoa] at the Refreshment Outpost ," says Len Testa, founder of TouringPlans.com . His other must-tries include Pickle Fries with Dill Ranch and Orange-Cardamom Wings. In between bites, head over to the much-anticipated Journey of Water , Inspired by Moana, which is scheduled to open at Epcot on October 16, 2023.

For the easiest access to the park, consider staying at a hotel within walking distance . Good Housekeeping faves in that area include Disney's Beach Club Resort and Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin .

EXPLORE ORLANDO

The Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

One of the last places for leaves to reach peak color, eastern Tennessee will be ablaze in yellow, orange and red in late October and early November. Who's ready for a road trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some leaf-peeping?

This time of year, "the Abrams Fall Hike in Cades Cove will be a stunner," says Jeremy Puglisi, co-author of Where Should We Camp Next? National Parks. "The Alum Cave hike would also be better during fall foliage." Puglisi notes that the new campground, Roamstead , is getting a lot of buzz. L ocated near Gatlinburg, Roamstead offers an array of lodging options, including cabins, yurts and RV sites — plus a heated saltwater pool!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also very close to Dollywood. The theme park's Dollywood HeartSong Lodge & Resort , which has Family Suites with bunk beds, will open this fall.

EXPLORE THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS

Seabrook, Washington

The number of families booking a vacation rental to celebrate Thanksgiving has been on the rise. After all, it's tempting to avoid the mess at your house! If you want to jump in on the trend, we found the perfect place: Seabrook, Washington .

This oceanfront coastal community about two and a half hours west of Seattle boasts more than 500 homes — many of them for rent. All of them are walkable to the beach, playground, shops, restaurants and — most important for any Thanksgiving gathering — the grocery store.

All built within the last 20 years (and many much newer), the rentals boast state-of-the-art kitchens and plenty of space for everyone to sleep. Some rentals can fit up to 20 people!

EXPLORE SEABROOK

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

For a culture-filled Midwestern getaway, look no further than Milwaukee. While the city is known for its cheese curds and beer, it offers way more than that.

"The overall vibe is fantastic," says a Good Housekeeping staff member who recently visited. "Everyone knows Milwaukee for beer but every single cup of coffee I had there was fantastic. The food was really solid all around too." Visitors can dine at prominent spots like Sanford , a critically acclaimed restaurant that features a surprise tasting menu with seven courses.

Also check out ARIA , which is housed on the second floor of the cool and contemporary Saint-Kate: The Arts Hotel , for artisanal Midwest cuisine. Our staffer also stayed at the hotel, which has art exhibits on the first floor. She says, "There were crayons and rolls of butcher paper in our room for drawing, which I thought was a neat touch in an art-themed hotel."

EXPLORE MILWAUKEE

Bangkok, Thailand

With the monsoon season coming to an end, travelers visiting Thailand’s capital can enjoy pleasant weather with less humidity. Comfortable temperatures are key for sightseeing and taste-testing mouth-watering dishes like roti gluay and fried rice from the city’s plentiful street food vendors.

After indulging in delicious, budget-friendly bites, visitors can check out ornate historical sites and religious temples like Wat Phra Sri Rattanasamaram and Wat Arun Ratchawararam to marvel at the impeccable architecture. Shop for premium goods in the city’s buzzing Siam Square with prominent retailers throughout.

Out-of-towners who crave top-notch service tend to stay in luxury hotels like Mandarin Oriental Bangkok or Park Hyatt Bangkok for high-end aesthetics and can’t-miss amenities.

EXPLORE BANGKOK

Turks and Caicos

White sand beaches with warm, crystal-clear waters in November are hard to pass up especially when the temperatures at home are plummeting.

That’s why so many from the Midwest and the East Coast flock to Turks and Caicos for a reprieve. A good bet is The Ritz-Carlton Turks & Caicos located on a white sand beach in Grace Bay. You can rent a cute bike and fill its wicker basket with snacks for a picnic. Or learn how to sail from a pro. Of course, the pool vibes are immaculate!

If you've got little ones in tow, the Ritz Kids Club can provide you with a few hours of alone time so you can have a spa treatment, a romantic meal or even just read a good book at the beach. Even better: There are several promotions available for stays in November.

EXPLORE TURKS AND CAICOS

Paris, France

It’s always a good time to visit Paris, but November is one of the best. With fewer crowds due to the upcoming holidays, this month is a wonderful time to take in the city’s wondrous, one-of-a-kind sights and partake in its world-class shopping.

After checking must-see tourist attractions like The Louvre and the Eiffel Tower off your list, venture into less popular territory. Go on a unique cultural experience to discover the rich legacy of Black people in France with Ricki Stevenson’s Black Paris Tour . Explore the lively Little Africa area and learn little-known facts about African, Caribbean and American history in the City of Lights.

Centrally located, the newly renovated Hilton Paris Opera is a fab place to stay.

EXPLORE PARIS

Seattle, Washington

Fall is in the air at Pike Place Market , a tourist and local favorite with 500+ businesses on the Seattle Waterfront. Pumpkin pie lattes, pear crème brûlée Danish and handcrafted pottery for the Thanksgiving table are among the fall market finds while year-round faves include the famous fish toss and the OG Starbucks location. (Yes, this is where Pike Place Coffee got its name.) For a special dinner, the market also boasts Aerlume , a design-forward, waterfront restaurant with a seasonally focused menu.

Stay at the Thompson Hotel Seattle , which is just a block or so from the market. As a guest, you'll receive priority access to the Nest, a rooftop bar that's extremely popular with locals for fab views and delish cocktails. The Thompson Hotel Seattle is also within walking distance of other iconic attractions, such as the Space Needle and Chihuly Gardens and Glass, plus it offers cookies at check-in.

EXPLORE SEATTLE

Antigua and Barbuda

Discover what the West Indies has to offer with a visit to Antigua and Barbuda. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, these sister islands are known for their reef-lined beaches, rainforests and first-rate resorts. Vacationers can swim with stingrays, dive, fish, kayak or kite surf.

A Good Housekeeping staffer and her sister recently stayed at Carlisle Bay Antigua and opted for the all-inclusive plan, which includes meals and most activities. "The staff was the real highlight," she says. "They were incredibly friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating." She also noted that if you're bringing children, the resort has "a wonderful kids' program."

EXPLORE ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA

Reykjavík, Iceland

Although “ice” is literally in the name of this Nordic Island nation, it’s not as chilly as one might think. The average high in November is a surprising 40 degrees — that’s balmy if you’re comparing it to Midwest winters. So, remember to pack your bathing suits. In fact, swimming is one of the most popular things to do — even during the winter thanks to heated pools around the city .

Dubbed the Land of Fire and Ice, visitors can admire the beauty of frozen landscapes and of course, try to see the elusive, colorful Northern Lights. Due to its manageable size, it’s easy to chill out and explore on foot. And there’s much to see. With natural wonders like glaciers and ice-capped terrain at every turn, a trek to Iceland is a must.

EXPLORE REYKJAVIK

New York City

The week before Thanksgiving is the sweet spot to visit NYC for the holidays: You can shop at the seasonal markets and marvel over the department store windows when it's still fairly mild (averages are in the upper 50s) and far less crowded than later in the season.

Your must-dos include tickets to see one of the first Christmas Spectacular performances of the season; the Radio City Rockettes kick off on November 17. And the Winter Village in Bryant Park will be in full swing; the shops open on October 27 and starting on November 9, you can even eat in one of the park's cozy igloos. The twinkling walk-through Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden begins on November 17.

Stay at ModernHaus Soho , which is in a great neighborhood for shopping and dining.

EXPLORE NEW YORK CITY

National Harbor, Maryland

November 19 marks the return of ICE! to Gaylord National Resort , located in National Harbor just outside of Washington, DC. This year's theme is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and kids will lose their minds over the 20,000-square-foot frozen version!

They'll also love going down the two-story ice slides and traversing ice tunnels and arches (don't worry about the cold — everyone gets a parka when they enter!) . Aside from ICE!, National Harbor entertains families with with a fun (and free!) holiday light show every half hour, starting at sunset, plus fireworks every Saturday at 5:30pm; both run from November 11 to December 30.

The destination is also packed with stores (including outlets) for holiday shopping, restaurants, and a giant wheel that the kids will want to take a spin on. One 6-year-old tester who recently visited told us, "This was the best day of my life!"

EXPLORE NATIONAL HARBOR

Charleston, South Carolina

November is a wonderful time to stroll around Charleston — and there are plenty of special events to enjoy.

The Preservation Society of Charleston holds its annual garden and home tours from October 11 to November 4. A citywide literacy festival takes place from November 3 to 12 at various spots around the city. And the famed Farmers' Market runs on Saturdays in November. Highly recommended indoor options include the South Carolina Aquarium and the new International African American Museum .

The historic HarbourView Inn , an indigo cotton warehouse turned boutique hotel, is a fantastic place to stay, especially for couples. They have the only private rooftop in town with 360-degree city views of Charleston’s famed steeple-lined skyline and historic harbor. It's where the hotel hosts a complimentary wine and cheese hour every afternoon, featuring local Southern favorites.

EXPLORE CHARLESTON

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Skiing season kicks off in Jackson Hole in November. After a banner 2022-23 season that brought nearly 600 inches of snow, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort re-opens for its 58th season on November 25.

No matter when you're planning your trip, you should book early. A Good Housekeeping staff member recently stayed at The Virginian Lodge . "The hotel is actually an old motel that was recently renovated, so everything felt fresh and new," she says. "The decor felt very 'lodge meets mid-century modern.'"

For skiers, the hotel boasts a center for gear rental, a shuttle to the slopes and fire pits and hot tubs for your apres-ski enjoyment.

EXPLORE JACKSON HOLE

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

Best All-Inclusive Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

The Best Alaska Cruises

Universal's Epic Universe Will Live Up to Its Name

25 Fun Girls' Weekend Getaway Destinations

Inside Vrbo's Vacation Rentals of the Year 2024

20 Best Places to Visit in April

20 Surprising Disneyland Freebies

The Best Family Vacation Ideas

The Best Bachelorette Party Destinations

Romantic Weekend Getaways

The Best Destinations to Visit This March

The 10 best destinations to visit in November

Editor's Note

November: a month where the frenzy of summer vacations has long faded, and the hustle and bustle of the winter holidays are not yet upon us.

It's that quiet window when the world seems to take a collective sigh, and the landscapes offer a tapestry of colors, ranging from the vibrant autumn leaves in some regions to the emerging summer hues in others.

But where should you go when the 11th month of the year rolls around?

Whether you're chasing the last traces of fall or eager to embrace the beginning of summer in the southern hemisphere, we've compiled a list of 10 destinations that truly shine in November.

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

As the leaves change in many parts of the world, Virgin Gorda is at its prime in November.

Why, you ask? The weather is unmatched, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures that beckon travelers. And now, reaching this paradise has been made even more seamless. Tradewind is launching a convenient new flight service on Nov. 16, connecting San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Virgin Gorda.

Once you set foot on the island, you'll be captivated. The extensive coastlines offer beaches that are not only breathtaking but also diverse. The beaches are havens for those seeking serene relaxation as well as fun destinations for the more adventurous souls looking to explore. Considering December's holiday rush, a retreat to Virgin Gorda in November is a timely and perfect escape.

TPG tip: Rosewood Little Dix Bay is the perfect getaway spot and is available for around $1,500 or 109,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Related: The 22 best Caribbean resorts, from boutique literary haunts to exclusive private-island escapes

St. Augustine, Florida

With its cool breezes and historic charm, November is an ideal time to visit St. Augustine, Florida.

The city, rich in culture and history, comes alive with unique events this month. One standout is the Whiskey, Wine and Wildlife festival from Nov. 2-5 at Vilano Beach. This event combines top Southern culinary delights with an up-close experience of coastal wildlife. Attendees can enjoy food and drink masterclasses, explore the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve and indulge in a wine and cheese reception. It's a rare mix of education, flavors and nature.

TPG tip: Book a room at the Hilton St. Augustine Historic Bayfront from $232 or 66,000 Hilton Honors rewards points per night.

Cusco, Peru

Cusco in November is a blend of color, flavor and tradition.

First off, families come together for "All Saints Day," sharing a special meal of suckling pig and corn tamales. Some whip up these treats at home, while others head to local markets. The best part? Everything's cooked in clay ovens with firewood.

Then, an emotional journey unfolds on "Dia de los Difuntos," or Day of the Dead. Families visit cemeteries, placing flowers, favorite foods and the unique "Tanta Wawa" bread on graves. It's more than just a celebration; it's Cusco's beautiful way of honoring loved ones.

Related: These are the best Latin American cities to use your points and miles

TPG tip: You will love Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Cusco. It's available for around $310 or 48,000 Marriott Bonvoy rewards points per night.

Japan in November is a canvas of mesmerizing autumn hues, and two regions stand out: Nikko and Kyoto.

In Nikko, the Okunikko region boasts a longer fall color season due to its diverse elevation. Must-see sights include the Kegon Waterfall, flanked by rich autumn trees. While there's a free platform, the paid one (accessed by a deep elevator at the waterfall's base), offers a view worth every yen. Don't miss the Irohazaka Winding Road between Nikko and Okunikko Mountains, where fall colors cascade down the slopes from mid-October to early November.

Related: The best ways to travel to Japan with points and miles

Kyoto, with its cooler climate, welcomes a vivid fall. Iconic spots like Nijo Castle and Kinkaku-Ji are adorned in autumnal hues. November also brings festivals: the Gion Odori (Nov. 1-10) showcases Kyoto's geiko and maiko in one of the city's oldest geisha dance performances.

On Nov. 3, dive into Kyoto's rich blend of nature and culture at the annual Aki Matsuri festival at Tanukidani-san Fudo temple. Here, visitors inscribe wishes on wooden tablets before a ceremonial bonfire ritual, bridging the spiritual and the natural amidst tanuki statue onlookers.

TPG tip: Travelers should book a stay at luxurious Hoshinoya Kyoto and watch the surrounding Japanese maple trees turn to crimson red, yellow and orange contrasted against the Oi River. Rates start from around $620 per night.

Guadalajara, Mexico

From Nov. 3-11, immerse yourself in the inclusive spirit of Gay Games XI, a celebration of diversity, athleticism and LGBTQ+ equality. It features 22 diverse sports events where athletes of all backgrounds compete openly and fairly.

Later in the month, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 3, dive into the literary world at the Guadalajara International Book Fair — the largest of its kind in Latin America. The European Union is this year's Guest of Honor.

Related: These are the best times to visit Mexico

Guadalajara isn't just about events; it's the cultural heartbeat of Mexico, known for tequila, mariachi and breathtaking colonial architecture. As it marks its bicentennial in 2023, explore the city's rich heritage, from the magical town of Tequila to historic urban districts. Don't miss this vibrant blend of sports, books and deep-rooted culture.

TPG tip: Stay at The Westin Guadalajara for around $232 or 13,250 Marriott Bonvoy rewards points per night.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Dance your way into Punta Cana on Nov. 26 for National Merengue Day, a vibrant celebration integral to the nation's identity. Merengue, the national dance, not only moves the locals but also beckons tourists with its spirited festivals across the country.

Punta Cana marks the day with colorful dances, echoing the lively tunes of accordions, drums and saxophones. Whether you're a dance enthusiast or just seeking a taste of Dominican culture, this event promises an unforgettable rhythmic experience.

TPG tip: Zoetry Agua Punta Cana sits along a 200-yard stretch of the Uvero Alto beach and features 96 suites. It's accessible via a private complimentary helicopter transfer to the resort, setting the tone for a luxurious and exclusive stay. Rates start around $574 or 40,500 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

Canary Islands

Head to El Burro Beach in Fuerteventura — the second largest of the Canary Islands — on Nov. 6-12 for a visual treat: the Corralejo Festival de Cometas (Kite Festival).

Celebrating its rich 30-year tradition that began in 1987 by kite aficionados, the once modest gathering has now blossomed into a major international spectacle. As colorful kites dance and dominate the skies, tourists and locals unite in admiration and festivity. Don't miss this annual canvas of color and creativity; it's a testament to the island's rich cultural spirit and passion for the skies.

TPG tip: Secrets Bahia Real Resort & Spa is on the northern tip of Fuerteventura; it has magnificent views of Lanzarote and Lobos islands, volcanic landscapes and untouched beaches. It's available for about $268 or 21,000 World of Hyatt rewards points per night.

Related: 7 reasons why you need to visit Spain's Canary Islands this summe r

Beyond the dazzling casinos and enthralling shows, November is a particularly inviting time to visit Las Vegas, with cooler weather and a lively events calendar.

This month, the city shifts into high gear, hosting the exhilarating debut of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix from Nov. 16-18. Feel the rush as world-class drivers race against the vibrant backdrop of the Strip's iconic neon lights.

The week leading up to the Grand Prix will celebrate automotive excellence at the Concours event. Car lovers will be in for a treat with an exhibition showcasing more than 250 automobiles from around the globe and a spectacular motorcade journeying along the Strip.

TPG tip: You can avoid the madness but still be close by if you stay at Holiday Inn Club Vacations at Desert Club Resort. Rates start at about $212 or 50,000 IHG rewards points per night.

Related: Jackpot! Best hotels in Vegas for a Sin City getaway

Flagstaff, Arizona

Flagstaff, fondly known as Arizona's autumn capital, transforms in late fall, offering crisp air and a spectacle of vibrant foliage.

Before winter's embrace, early November is the prime window to explore the stunning hues in the San Francisco Peaks and Arizona Snowbowl. You can also admire the colors on Flagstaff's more than 130 hiking trails.

Stay at the newly opened, retro-themed Americana Motor Hotel (rates from $189) along iconic Route 66. It's not just a place to rest — it's an experience. It has features like "dive-in" movies at the heated pool, s'mores-ready firepits and tasty bites at Far Out Food. This roadside haven acts as your gateway to northern Arizona's adventures.

Whether gazing at stars in the world's premier Dark Sky city, cycling into town or lounging in a hammock after visiting attractions like the Grand Canyon or Sunset Crater Volcano, Flagstaff in November promises a blend of relaxation and exploration.

TPG tip: A great budget option is High Country Motor Lodge, available for around $95 or 7,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per night.

New York City

New York City in November is a buzz of energy and excitement.

On Nov. 5, experience the world's largest marathon as thousands race through the five boroughs during the New York City Marathon. Later in the month, witness the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a timeless tradition since 1924. Amidst the backdrop of colorful autumn leaves in Central Park and the onset of holiday vibes, the city offers a unique charm. From the races to the parades to the autumn ambience, November in New York City is not to be missed.

TPG tip: Stay at Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square from $312 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night and be in the center of all the action.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The 10 best places to travel in November 2023

Fit in a fabulous getaway before the festive madness begins with our guide to the best places to travel in November

November is an underrated time of the year to go travelling. Don’t believe us? That’s on you, but we’ll go ahead and scour the globe in search of the best places to travel in November. The variety is astounding, from supernatural celebrations in Central America to spirited storytelling in European pubs. Also, the wilderness. Who doesn’t love the wilderness? Don’t get lost, of course. November is a beautiful time of year, when the dying days of autumn give way to winter and the impending festive period . Get mentally prepared for the latter with a brilliant getaway in the penultimate month of the year.

RECOMMENDED:

🗺  Our full guide to the  best places to travel  every month 🌲 The  best places to travel in December

An email you’ll actually love

Best places to travel in November

1.  Oaxaca, Mexico

Forget your usual Halloween night out, and head to Oaxaca to experience Mexico’s Day of the Dead. From October 31 to November 2, Mexicans welcome their loved ones’ spirits back to the world of the living with a big, beautifully macabre celebration mixing both indigenous and European traditions. Big orange puffs of cempasuchil flowers line the bustling markets, altars are covered with  Calaveras  (decorative skulls), candles and Catholic iconography, and a massive street party kicks off with fireworks, music, dancers and performers on stilts.

Discover the  essential guide to Oaxaca

2.  Thailand

Post-rainy season, November is a great time to head to Thailand’s jungles and beaches. You can hit all the usual spots, but consider some of Thailand’s lesser-known yet equally beautiful places like Pranburi. With secluded natural beaches and spread-out boutique accommodation options, the area’s still better known for fishing than tourism. There are mangrove forests to explore, and the spectacular Tham Phraya Nakhon cave is just along the coast—inside, the country’s smallest temple is bathed in sunlight from an opening in the rock above.

Discover the best  things to do in Thailand

3.  Yukon, Canada

Attention’s been on Canada’s sparsely populated, mountainous territory Yukon over the last year or so, thanks to the movie  Call of the Wild  (about a domesticated dog who’s stolen from California and sold to sleigh dog racers, starring Harrison Ford). November marks the start of the winter season in this freezing wilderness—explore on skis, take a snowmobile or go ice-fishing. The film is set in the 1890s, during the Gold Rush, so check out some Klondike Gold Rush history in Dawson City, too. And then wait for the skies to light up with Aurora Borealis at night.

Discover the best things to do in Canada

4.  Hong Kong

Hong Kong has always been a looker: with its instantly recognisable skyline of densely packed skyscrapers and lush, green peaks, and its uniquely East-meets-West feel. By November, the drenching heat eases off to a gentle autumn warmth. Tick off Victoria Peak, the Star Ferry and a cable car to the Big Buddha on Lantau Island, then head out to hip hood Sai Ying Pun, on the western side of Hong Kong Island. On its clattering streets, historic dried seafood stalls share space with many hot new cafés, bars and restaurants—including Balinese export Potato Head. 

Discover the best  things to do in Hong Kong 

5.  Morocco

While  Marrakech  got all the attention as Africa’s first Capital of Culture for 2020, history and culture also abound in other Moroccan cities. Take liberal Tangier, for example, with its 1950s beat poet history: Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg drank in The Tangerinn, while William S Burroughs wrote  Naked Lunch  in Hotel El Muniria. A short hop over the Med from Spain, Tangier’s art galleries offer a sense of this port city’s exciting collision of Europe and African culture, while its medina is smaller and more manageable than Marrakech. 

Discover the best  things to do in Morocco

6.  Oman

Where’s the world’s longest zip line? Most people’s first guess wouldn’t be Oman. But the Arabian sultanate has been seriously ramping up its efforts to bring in tourists to the country, with the promise of easy visas and that epic zipline – which is planned for the picturesque mountain village Misfat Al Abriyeen. That has been the plan for a couple of years now, so expect plenty of queues when it eventually opens. But despite its world’s longest zipline bid, Oman is everything nearby Dubai isn’t: generally favouring low-rise Middle Eastern charm and Bedouin traditions over being the biggest or showiest. So expect natural beauty and friendly locals. The almost constant sunshine doesn’t hurt, either.

7.  Dublin

Nothing beats the warm, fuzzy feeling of stepping out of the winter cold and into a warm, cosy pub. And Dublin does an unbeatable line in warm, inviting boozers—from low-lit watering holes that have barely changed since Victorian times to drinking spots known for their live music and rabble-rousing atmosphere. Head to the 250-year-old Long Hall for obscure ales with extra character, The Cobblestone in Smithfield’s for quaintness in spades and live music, or settle in for a session at Toners. It has a short but sweet whisky list and strong literary ties—it’s rumoured to have been the only place WB Yeats would go for a drink.

Discover the best things to do in Dublin

8.  Tasmania

Having successfully flipped its image from snoozing backwater to a food and art hotspot with ample natural beauty, Australia’s rugged island state is on a tourism high. To beat the crowds, head over in November before summer truly kicks in. The Change Overnight Hotel, a boutique apartment-style hotel where guests are invited to choose one of eight causes that their stay will contribute to, has been a revelation. Base yourself here to explore the historic city of Launceston, meet the peacocks in the picturesque Cataract Gorge, and visit the Southern Wild Distillery in Devonport for gin made using locally foraged botanicals. Then head south for cultural hub Hobart.

Discover the best  things to do in Tasmania

9.  Egypt

With visitor numbers steadily picking up, you might want to get in there and see the Pyramids quick. As yet the new Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo remains unopened (sometime in 2023 is the plan), meaning antiquities such as Tutankhamun’s gold mask and a behemoth, 83-tonne, fist-clenching statue of Ramses II are almost within reach. Still, history is tangible here, and it oozes out every nook and cranny. The Sphinx International Airport on the Giza side of the city should make it easier to drop in for an immersive ancient history lesson from the country’s beaches too. 

10.  Turkey

Turkey has been staging a comeback of late, and we're more than happy about that. Socialite season is over and it’s not sunbathing weather anymore – but that means Bodrum's crowds will be gone. Explore the whitewashed Aegean city and its fourth-century BC Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, then check out the castle. Be sure to take in  Istanbul , too, especially for the emerging  Kadıköy district . Its Çiya Sofrası restaurant, serving forgotten Anatolian dishes, also appeared on  Chef’s Table. 

Discover the best  things to do in Istanbul

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out Worldwide

• All Time Out Locations
• North America
• South America
• South Pacific

19 Best Places to Travel in November

Written by Anietra Hamper and Shandley McMurray Updated Oct 27, 2022

If you love a good deal as much as you love to travel, you'll want to book a trip in November. It's typically a transition month for multiple destinations, so you'll be in for plenty of perks when traveling at this time.

In addition to attractive rates on hotels, airfares, car rentals, and tours, November often means more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists competing for your spot on the beach, in the museum, or at the festival.

While November means the start of the winter season for the Northern Hemisphere, it is one of the best months from a weather standpoint to visit destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, like Australia and New Zealand .

It is also one of the best months for some of the world's most stunning natural experiences, like the northern lights in Iceland . So, while many people hold tight in November gearing up for the holidays, you can take advantage of some of the late-year travel perks that this month has to offer. That said, it's best to avoid traveling over Thanksgiving if you're looking to save some cash.

Plan your next vacation with our list of the best places to travel in November.

1. Melbourne, Australia

3. sedona, arizona, 5. new york city, new york, 6. mayan riviera, mexico, 7. paris, france, 8. cook islands, 9. amalfi coast, italy, 11. cabo san lucas, mexico, 12. hudson valley, new york, 13. palm springs, california, 14. iceland, 15. auckland, new zealand, 16. madrid, spain, 17. marrakech, morocco, 18. san antonio, texas, 19. bermuda, map of places to travel in november.

November is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne, Australia. It is in the shoulder season, so you will get the best of all things, including cooler temperatures, fewer tourists at the city's top attractions, and lower rates for hotels and airfares.

Springtime in Melbourne means that flowers are in bloom at the Royal Botanic Gardens , and you will have plenty of room at the top tourist attractions like the National Gallery of Victoria and Port Campbell National Park . There are so many fun things to do in Melbourne at this time of year, you really can't go wrong.

Weather in November is about perfect anywhere in the country, so you can easily set up base and take day trips from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula .

While Jamaica is a lovely place to visit year-round, November offers travelers a chance to beat the high season rush; marvel in wonderful temperatures (the highs are about 89 degrees); and avoid the heavy rains common in May, June, and August through October.

If you're looking for a deal, the best time to visit Jamaica for value is November through mid-December. Top tourist attractions like Negril Cliffs and Negril Beach are better enjoyed with fewer tourists, so you'll garner the best experience visiting during this off-season month.

Speaking of Jamaica's best beaches , November's optimal weather conditions make it easy to appreciate time spent on Montego Bay's Doctor's Cave Beach , Port Antonio's secluded Frenchman's Cove , Ocho Rios Bay Beach , and so many other idyllic sandy spots.

Read More: Best Waterfalls in Jamaica

While Sedona, Arizona can be a stifling place to visit in the summer, November brings a great opportunity to soak in the colorful fall in the region along with the comfortable temperatures to enjoy the outdoors for longer periods of time.

Fall is a popular time for tourists to visit the stunning red rocks that Sedona is known for, but November has the best deals on hotel rates. Take advantage of the cooler air to explore Red Rock State Park , visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross cultural site, or explore some of the hiking trails in the area .

There is a wide variety of stunning places to visit in Sedona , all of which are made better by November's ideal weather.

For an all-inclusive experience, you can combine your visit with a stay at one of the area's health and wellness retreats , which make popular getaways in Sedona. You may even be able to snag a deal at one of Sedona's lovely spa resorts .

Maui's innate beauty and tropical climate make it a must-visit destination year-round. November, in particular, is a stellar time to unpack your bags in this Hawaiian wonderland. Enjoy the shoulder season savings at one of the island's best resorts. Most travelers embark on this natural beauty during summer or between December and February.

November sees lower highs (an average in the high 70s to mid 80s) than the sweltering summer months, but the ocean remains primed for a day of water fun at a not-quite balmy but not frigid 79 degrees.

Enjoy Maui's top tourist attractions , like Haleakala National Park , Maui Ocean Center , and Waianapanapa State Park without inflated prices and throngs of people. If you're a fan of giant sea creatures, the best time to visit Maui for whale watching is from November through May . Book a whale watching tour to see these magnificent beauties up close.

If you're hoping to surf in November, you're in luck. The winter swells start to roll in at this time of year, especially at Pe'ahi .

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Maui

New York City is a fab place to visit at any time of the year, but November presents a sweet spot for tourists who prefer not to melt into the pavement while sightseeing .

It's easy to feel festive during a trip to New York in November. The ice rinks are up and running (and have been since late October), the Radio City Rockettes are performing the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, and the Christmas Markets are selling their ware s .

The Union Square Holiday Market begins mid-November (usually around the 17 th ), and lasts through Christmas Eve, for those looking to grab a tasty treat or creative gift to celebrate the holiday season.

If you can plan your trip for the end of the month, be sure to hit Central Park West early for a good spot to view the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (held on Thanksgiving, of course). Central Park is a real masterpiece at this time of year, featuring colorful trees and crisp air.

The New York Marathon happens in early November. Whether you're ready to lace up your running shoes or prefer to cheer on athletes from a comfy spot in Central Park, this is one of the best free things to do in New York City .

Be honest, who doesn't want to hit a white sandy beach in November? In Mexico, you're likely to find sunny skies, uncrowded beaches, and a boatload of culture (not to mention tasty food) when visiting at this time.

The Mayan Riviera is one of the top places to visit in Mexico and an affordable getaway destination in November. Whether you decide to grab a deal at an all-inclusive resort and check out the sights around Cancún or soak up the culture and visit the Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá , you're in for a vacation to remember.

Visiting Mexico in November also means you can partake in the Day of the Dead (a.k.a. El Dia de Los Muertos) festivities, if you are there on November 1 st and 2 nd , that is. The festival begins on October 31 st .

As for weather, you'll be pleased. Highs get up to about 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nights drop to a comfortable 68. Hurricane season will be officially behind you, and the rainfall is very minimal.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Mexico

As one of the most visited cities in the world, finding the best time to visit Paris, France is relative depending on the experience you are looking for. No matter what you hope to do, though, November offers some advantages.

Fall is a great time to visit this city of love, namely because the summer tourists are gone, which means the famously long lines at top attractions have been whittled down to almost nothing. You will also find great rates on hotels and airfares in the fall compared to the summer months.

In exchange for the savings in Euros and the perk of running into fewer tourists, you will need to pack a jacket as you head out to explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower .

The Cook Islands are an idyllic place to visit at any time of the year. During November, temperatures hit the low to mid 80s, and at 79 degrees, the ocean is warm enough to enjoy for brief periods without too many goosebumps. At night, you'll want to pack a light sweater to shut out any chill from the 70-degree lows.

While there is a risk of rain at this time, it often falls at night or in short bursts, so it shouldn't ruin any of the fun things you want to do, like visiting the area's top attractions : Aitutaki's stunning lagoon , Tapuaetai (a.k.a. One Foot) Island , or Muri Beach . The rainy season tends to hit between December and March.

For an unforgettable fall vacation on the Amalfi Coast, which stretches along southern Italy in the Campania region, consider a November departure. The 54-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Site draws millions of tourists every year. Most come to experience the coastal cliffs and majestic Mediterranean waters in the high summer season.

Far fewer crowds compete for the coastline, and the area's beautiful beaches , in November, when the temperatures have dropped to comfortable daytime levels. Your trip can be split up into several days in several cities, like Positano or Ravello , exploring the most intriguing points of interest . Or, you can base yourselves out of one city and make day trips to visit the sites.

Don't miss out on a boat excursion while you're here. There's nothing like bobbing along on the sea, ogling gorgeous houses and luxury resorts that climb their way up the majestic cliffs.

There is a small window of perfection when visiting Belize in November. During this window, travelers can escape the summer crowds and enjoy the best attractions in the country before the holiday tourists arrive.

The ideal time to plan your trip to this Central American country is mid-to-late November. You will get great weather and low rates for hotel rooms and local tours. Top things to do at this time of year include visiting the area's spectacular beaches and visiting historic ruins.

Pack your bathing suit and adventurous spirit and enjoy the flexibility on tours to enjoy snorkeling along the barrier reef at the Great Blue Hole . Visit ancient Mayan sites like Lamanai and Altun Ha , and soak up the culture in the nearby Cayo District .

Cabo San Lucas is so worthy of a November visit that we've given this special spot its own section. Guests won't swelter on the soft, sandy beaches at this time of year, but the temperatures are still warm (highs are in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit) and primed for a day spent by the sunny shore.

During November, travelers can enjoy Cabo's top things to do , like watch a sunset from Land's End , check out the Arch of Cabo San Lucas , lounge on Playa Del Amor , and wander through Marina Cabo San Lucas , all without having to jostle the crowds that will bombard this area during winter.

November 20 th is Revolution Day , a Mexican federal holiday. While businesses are closed, expect lots of live music, a parade, fireworks, and great food. When it comes to great deals, you're sure to get one at one of Cabo's best all-inclusive resorts this time of year.

Read More: Best Tours & Excursions from Cabo San Lucas

As soon as you catch sight of the Hudson Valley in November, you'll understand why this is one of the best times to visit this breathtaking part of the state. It's at this time of year that the Hudson Valley is at its most spectacular–vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow flank the sides of the sparkling lake, creating postcard-worthy views. And it's a perfect day-trip destination from New York City .

While in the area, don't miss out on the breathtaking views and unique statues at the Storm King Art Center . Also be sure to wander across the Walkway Over the Hudson . It's one of the best things to do in Poughkeepsie .

November is the last month of the well-loved, Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze , a Halloween-inspired event held at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson . Guests can be wowed by over 7,000 lit jack o'lanterns as they wander the spectacular historic grounds.

A November visit to Palm Springs, California is a nice alternative to the stifling summertime heat. In the fall, temperatures are tolerable for outdoor desert adventures in the Coachella Valley Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park .

There are so many things to do in Palm Springs, from hiking and boutique shopping to outdoor dining and just relaxing by the pool. November is a popular time for conventions in the city, but tourists will be in smaller numbers, making your trip to the mountaintop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway easy to do.

You will also find nice deals on hotel rooms, especially for weekend stays.

Read More: Top Attractions in Palm Springs, California

Iceland has one great feature going for it in November–the best chance to see the spectacular Northern Lights. You either get lucky and catch the occasional overnight show during the high tourist season in the summer, or you can visit during November in the window when the nights are the longest in the country and guarantee yourself a spectacular sighting.

Pack your winter gear and prepare for a natural spectacle of not just the northern lights but also the Blue Lagoon , volcanoes, waterfalls at the Golden Circle Gullfoss , and glacial treks.

Since November is in the low-season, you can get great deals on hotel rooms and airfares. Base yourself out of Reykjavik and take day trips to many of the top destinations on the island.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Iceland

November is a shoulder month in Auckland, New Zealand , which makes it a great time to consider a vacation. It is springtime in this famed and fabulous city, so you can expect moderate weather with mostly sunny days, perfect for outdoor excursions to Auckland's best places to visit , like Mount Eden and Cornwall Park .

November is an ideal month for hiking, hitting the beach, biking, and strolling through the parks to enjoy the abundance of flora and fauna unique to this region.

The additional perk to traveling to Auckland in November is that you will avoid the tourist crowds and the premium rates for hotel and airfare.

The month of November is one of the best times of the year to visit Madrid, Spain . First of all, the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Secondly, tourists have gone home. As a result, hotel rates are lower, and you can experience the city at your own pace.

There are fall festivals to enjoy in Madrid, and without the crowds, you can feel like a local at the El Rastro flea market. You can stroll the gardens at the Buen Retiro Park without the worry of intense summer heat that often makes it tough to enjoy the outdoor attractions.

During the occasional rain, you can hit one of the many indoor attractions in Madrid , like the Prado Museum and the Plaza de Cibeles , which can be tough to see in the high tourist season.

If you are looking to take a vacation in Marrakech, Morocco , November is an ideal time to go. At this time, the sweltering summer temperatures have cooled a bit and the large volumes of tourists are gone. There are a number of festivals taking place in November, and with fewer travelers around, you can haggle more easily for cheap prices at the markets for souvenirs.

Hotel rates are rock bottom, too, so you can book your entire vacation for a fraction of what it would cost in the summer season. Plan a few extra days with the savings and enjoy more time exploring the Medina of Marrakesh and the central open-air district of Jemaa El Fna .

While there is so much to see in Marrakech, you can also plan day excursions to the Atlas Mountains , Ourika Valley , and the Sahara Desert .

San Antonio is the most comfortable Texan city to visit starting in November. During this fall month, the temperatures have cooled off from the oppressive summer heat, and boat rides along the River Walk are enjoyable. Since the city has a number of historical sites and theme parks, it is a popular family vacation destination.

By November, hotel rates have dropped and the tourists are gone, so it is a more pleasant (and cheaper) time to visit. You will enjoy fewer crowds at some of the top must-see attractions in San Antonio, like The Alamo , Brackenridge Park , and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park .

The other up-side to visiting in November is the boost in local festivals that you can enjoy. November is a popular time for conventions, so you will want to plan around that before you book your trip.

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in San Antonio

Hoping to score a discount on a trip to Bermuda? November's a good bet. While this might be the perfect time to catch a golf vacation on the cheap, and you'll encounter fewer tourists in November, be advised that the water is still a bit chilly for swimming. If you didn't plan to swim anyway and just want to soak in the perfect ocean beaches and famous pink sand, then pack your bags.

There are plenty of excursions to enjoy in Bermuda, from the underground Crystal Caves and oceanfront golf courses to the winding old streets in Historic St. George .

You will be able to find great hotel rates in November and, likely, package deals to bundle the activities that you would like to do while you are here. With all the cash you save, you can book a fab tour.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Bermuda

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Idyllic Caribbean Islands : Looking for a Caribbean beach vacation ? There are some great options to consider, from Grenada and St. Lucia to the caves and bays in Barbados . Many locations in the Caribbean, like Jamaica and the Turks and Caicos , have beautiful all-inclusive resorts, and some locations are great for finding family resorts that can accommodate additional needs for various age groups traveling together.

More on Arizona

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

Where to travel in November

Whether you’re looking for an escape to sunnier shores or to bask in the glut of the season’s harvest, there’s plenty going on in the world. Here’s our pick of this month’s top destinations.

As the Northern Hemisphere moves into the shadow of winter, thoughts, for many, turn to some sunshine. And that’s still just about possible within the fringes of Europe, with the far-flung Atlantic Iberian islands basking in warm autumn sun. It’s a great time for hiking in the Azores, Canaries and Madeira, while mainland Europe sees in its harvests — including olives, mushrooms and truffles — with a slew of festivals.

North America’s eastern reaches are ablaze with fall foliage, with Thanksgiving an atmospheric time for a city break in the likes of New York, Boston and Montreal. It’s a fine time to head to the Caribbean, too, where the stormy season is retreating.

1. Canary Islands

Escape to the Spanish archipelago off the coast of West Africa for some November sunshine. The rugged volcanic islands have black and white sand beaches and some of the sunniest winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere. Tenerife usually has the best temperatures and hours of sunshine, and with averages of 18-23C, it’s great weather for hiking some of the island’s 750 miles of designated trails.

The local government has designated nearly half of Tenerife as a ‘protected area of nature’, so expect lush sub-tropical vegetation, laurel forests and dramatic volcanic views. Trails like Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere, are home to incredible birdlife including the endemic Bolle’s and laurel pigeons.

Sustainable travel tip: November is also whale-watching season and between Tenerife and La Gomera, you’ll find Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site. Choose a reputable ethical local small boat operator such as Biosean and Whale Watch Tenerife — two notably ‘Blue Boat’ certified firms.

( How to spend a weekend on Tenerife's wild northern coast .)

2. Barbados

There are often some bargain breaks to be had in the shoulder season, between the tail-end of summer’s hurricanes and the start of winter’s peak travel time. A few islands celebrate independence in November, too, including Barbados, which makes for a fun few days of street parties, feasting and music.

Swimmers can make the most of those azure Caribbean blues, with Barbados Open Water Festival (8-12 November), a fun annual sporting event with 1.5km, 3.3km, 5km and 10km races welcoming a broad mix of ages and abilities, including serious swimmers and first-timers to open water.

Sustainable travel tip: Check into one of the burgeoning number of locally owned eco hotels, such as ECO Lifestyle + Lodge near Bathsheba, overlooking the little fishing village of Tent Bay. It's solar-powered with eco-products including reef-friendly suncream and organic mosquito spray, while its 10 rooms have an island castaway feel.

( Where to eat in Barbados .)

3. Tuscany, Italy

The summer crowds have long departed but the days in November are still golden. Misty mornings give way to sunny afternoons, hillsides blaze with autumn colours and crisp evenings are scented with woodsmoke as the first home fires of the season are lit. This is the time for new wines (vini novelli), similar to France’s Beaujolais nouveau, with special menus, tastings and events in villages and enotecas (regional wine shops) across the region.

It’s also when olive harvests come in, and just-pressed oils can be enjoyed alongside other seasonal treats like chestnuts, truffles and porcini mushrooms. Tuscany hosts various food festivals in November, including one dedicated to white truffles in the hilltop town of San Miniato (three weekends from 11 November 2023).

Sustainable travel tip: Hike or bike from village to village and work up an appetite with the likes of Responsible Travel   and   Inntravel , or take a small group tour visiting independent Italian food producers with Sapori e Saperi.

( This is how dogs learn to hunt for truffles .)

Day of the Dead ( Día de los Muertos ) is a time for families to come together to remember loved ones, with lively celebrations across Mexico . Based on an ancient, pre-Hispanic belief that death is just one stage of life’s long journey, the holiday sees families sprucing up ancestral tombs, decorating graves and making offerings at home shrines in a show of love and respect for their departed, who are thought to be closest to the living at this time of the year. Mexico City hosts a Day of the Dead parade ― a choreographed spectacle of mariachi music, dance and all manner of sparkling skeleton costumes and face paints. The southern city of Oaxaca has become the unofficial hub for travellers joining celebrations, the altar at the Zócalo public square a riot of flower petals, candles and sugary offerings.

Sustainable travel tip: Travel with a tour operator who taps into the local community, such as Audley , which offers locally guided trips to markets and visits to family homes in Oaxaca.

( These cities go all out for Day of the Dead. Here’s where to stay .)

5. England, UK

Light up those dark November evenings with a Bonfire Night display, the explosive annual parties that commemorate the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, the anniversary of a failed attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament.  

The Sussex town of Lewes is home to famous a medieval-style display, with street processions featuring marching drummers and 17 burning crosses, (referencing the 17 martyrs burnt at the stake in the town in the mid-16th century) before arriving at a vast bonfire for the fireworks display. Or head to London for a Thames cruise , passing the site of the failed plot itself at Westminster before arriving at Battersea Pier, a short walk from Battersea Park , home to one of the UK’s biggest displays. In the north of the city, Alexandra Palace offers spectacular hilltop views of the capital, DJs, a laser show high in the sky, street food and a huge fireworks display.

Sustainable travel tip: Visit an organised display rather than hold your own, to minimise debris, pollutants and harm to animals.

6. Wisconsin, USA

Thousands of sandhill cranes congregate on the Wisconsin River’s banks and islands in November, preparing for their annual migration south. The Great Midwest Crane Fest in the town of Baraboo, just under 200 miles from Chicago, marks the moment (10-11 November 2023), with guided birding tours, nature hikes and prairie walks. Now in its second year, the festival ‘celebrating community and conservation’ is a place for the locals and bird-loving visitors to enjoy conservation talks, nature art exhibitions, wildlife photography workshops and film screenings. Early last century, only a few dozen cranes remained in Wisconsin due to habitat loss and overhunting. Today, this annual gathering is one of conservation’s great success stories.

Sustainable travel tip: Festival organisers work with the local Ho-Chunk Nation to provide shuttle bus services between event venues. Register for the festival ($60/£50 for two days) and proceeds go towards funding conservation initiatives and raising global awareness of crane conservation and how climate change impacts their habitats.

Related Topics

• SHORT TRIPS
• TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

You May Also Like

Where to travel in January

10 best things to do in Switzerland

Free bonus issue.

Ready to plan your fall hike? Read this safety advice first.

How new flights to Akureyri are opening up northern Iceland

The essential guide to Switzerland

The Masterclasses 2023: 10 travel writing tips from our experts

How to plan a weekend in southern Kosovo, where Europe's newest adventure scene is blossoming

• History & Culture
• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

The 10 Best Places to Visit in November Around the World

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

If you have never considered traveling in November, maybe it’s time to rethink! The penultimate month of the year is a wonderful time to take in the famous sights of Europe without the crowds, experience spring in the Southern Hemisphere, swim in the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, or witness the majestic fall foliage in Japan.

From Mallorca to Mauritius, these are the best places to visit this November:

New York City, USA

If you have an opportunity to visit New York City in November, by all means, do so. From the world’s largest marathon to the legendary Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony, this transitional month is packed with amazing events. Central Park glows in beautiful fall colors, the theater season is in full swing on and off Broadway, and the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade takes over Manhattan.

By the end of November, it begins to look a lot like Christmas in New York. Days are getting shorter and chillier, Midtown’s department stores unveil their fabulous holiday window displays, and ice rinks and festive markets start to pop up all over the city.

If you can, extend your trip to experience New York in December , as that, my friends, is the stuff of cinematic legend.

Where to Stay in New York City: The spellbinding Empire State Building views from the Spyglass rooftop bar are worth the stay alone, but Archer also wows with industrial-chic interiors, curated art, and a hip & happening bar/eatery perfect for lingering over signature cocktails and creative shareable plates.

Bangkok, Thailand

There’s no better time to visit Bangkok than in November when the city is drying out from the rainy season, temperatures are cool enough (around mid-20s Celsius) to allow comfortable sightseeing, and the holiday crowds have yet to arrive.

A dizzying, delirious spectacle, the Thai capital rewards urban explorers of all kinds with its amazing foodscape, vibrant street life, and growing art scene, with serene Buddhist temples, sumptuous royal palaces, and wonderfully chaotic floating markets.

November is also the month when the city celebrates Loi Krathong, one of Thailand’s most popular festivals , when locals gather around lakes, rivers, and canals to release beautifully decorated floating vessels in a sumptuous ceremony meant to worship the goddess of the river, Pra Mae Khongkha, and to wash away misfortune.

Where to Stay in Bangkok: Housed in a uniquely narrow structure in the upscale Sathorn area, the Banyan Tree is home to 7 restaurants, including Moon Bar, one of Bangkok’s most spectacular sky bars. Rooms feature dark woods, silk paintings, and scenic city views.

With sapphire waters, powder-white beaches, and warm, sunny weather all year round, it’s hard to find a bad time to visit Mauritius.

Located about 2,400 km east of mainland Africa, this remote, multicultural paradise is one of the most spectacular islands in the Indian Ocean – an adventurer’s playground with world-class diving and snorkeling, excellent golf courses, delicious fusion cuisine, and wonderful wildlife-watching opportunities.

November marks the beginning of summer in Mauritius, which means long sunny days, less humidity, and average temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. The water is warm and clear – perfect for scuba diving and deep-sea fishing, Humpback whales can still be spotted off the west coast (the season lasts from July to November), and Diwali – the ancient Hindu festival of lights – is celebrated with great enthusiasm throughout the island.

Where to Stay in Mauritius: The ozone-purified infinity pool overlooking the sea, the deserted white-sand beach, and a torch-lit dinner on the sand are just a few reasons to stay at Anantara Iko Mauritius Resort & Villas on the pristine southeastern coast of Mauritius. Glass-bottom boat trips, mountain biking, and guided tours to Mahébourg are also available.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is at its best in November when spring is in full swing and the city is awash in purple blooms from the myriad of jacaranda trees lining the streets.

Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital has a stylish European flair streaming from its handsome Belle Époque architecture, elegant avenues, and atmospheric cobblestone alleys filled with pretty cafés and boutiques. The booming art scene, vibrant nightlife, and wonderful gastronomy all contribute to the city’s undisputed charm, and so do its two great passions – football and tango. If you can, try to catch a match between local rival teams, River Plate and Boca, or put on your dancing shoes and head to a milonga for free tango lessons.

November is also the month when BA celebrates the International Jazz Festival, the Argentine Open Polo Tournament, the Gay Pride Parade, and Creamfields Buenos Aires.

Where to Stay in Buenos Aires: For modern, elegant rooms at affordable prices in downtown Buenos Aires, head to Palacio Paz Hotel near Plaza San Martin. The ground-floor restaurant serves a modern take on traditional regional cuisine, along with signature cocktails, in a convivial atmosphere.

Istanbul, Turkey

Grandiose mosques, medieval towers, and ultra-modern skyscrapers dominate its skyline. Underneath, steamy hammams, exotic teahouses, and buzzing bazaars fuse with high-end shopping venues, hip restaurants, and contemporary art galleries in a sophisticated mix of old and new. And there it is, the mighty strait of Bosphorus determined to tear them apart forever. This is Istanbul, one of the world’s greatest and most dramatic cities, and the place where, beyond any cliché, East really meets West.

Comfortable daytime temperatures (around 15°C), affordable prices on hotels and airfare, and shorter lines at the stunning Hagia Sophia make November one of the best months to explore Istanbul. During this time of year, Turkey’s largest city is neither too busy nor too cold, allowing visitors ample space and time to admire its magnificent art and architecture.

Where to Stay in Istanbul: A grand, historic hotel with modern amenities, the Crowne Plaza Istanbul Old City is within walking distance from the Grand Bazaar and the 16th-century Suleymaniye Mosque. Complementing its elegantly appointed rooms are a spa, a heated indoor pool, and a sprawling restaurant serving Turkish and international specialties.

Piedmont, Italy

Alba’s revered White Truffle Festival is reason enough to visit Piedmont in November, but the charms of Italy’s second-largest region in autumn go far beyond these prized culinary delicacies.

There are award-winning wines (Barolo and Barbaresco) and postcard-perfect autumnal landscapes in the hills of Langhe, wonderfully preserved medieval fortifications in Candelo, curative thermal waters in the spa town of Acqui Terme, and marvelously authentic food in Bra – the birthplace and headquarters of the Slow Food movement.

Turin, the elegant, Alps-fringed capital of Piedmont, is an architectural feast of Baroque palaces, porticoed piazzas, and tree-lined Parisian boulevards, with a progressive cultural scene and some of the finest cooking in Italy.

The 93rd edition of the International Alba White Truffle Fair runs from 7th October to 3rd December 2023, and the entire region will be alive with twinkling Christmas markets and delicious slow-food fairs celebrating everything from wine and cheese to chestnuts and chocolate.

Where to Stay in Piedmont: Perfectly located for exploring historic Turin, the NH Collection Torino Piazza Carlina ’s contemporary rooms come complete with hardwood floors, pillow menus, and Lavazza coffee machines. Taking over a beautiful 17th-century building, it houses an excellent restaurant, an atmospheric bar, and a lovely courtyard terrace where breakfast is served.

Mexico is a country with many different landscapes and microclimates, and the best time to visit depends mainly on the region and the type of travel experience you’re seeking. November, however, is an ideal month to visit whatever the destination. Not only is the weather pleasant, but there are fewer tourists, lower fares, and a plethora of cultural attractions.

Hurricane season is over in the Yucatan, giving way to brighter, sunnier days spent lounging on less-crowded beaches and swimming in the warm sea. In Baja, too, the nights are getting cooler, but there is still wonderful swimming weather during the daytime.

If you are more inclined towards culture and heritage, striking Day of the Dead celebrations await in Oaxaca and Mexico City from October 31 to November 2. Also, the charming colonial town of San Miguel de Allende comes alive with music, art, and colorful traditions during the annual Calaca Festival. Otherwise, head to Leon, Guanajuato for the biggest hot air balloon festival in Latin America.

Where to Stay in Mexico: As charming and colorful as the city that surrounds it, Selina San Miguel de Allende offers an authentic stay in eclectic rooms adorned with locally-sourced art and textiles. Amenities like a shared kitchen, a yoga terrace, and coworking spaces make it a great option for digital nomads.

Kyoto, Japan

Every year, during the sakura season, people from all over come in droves to marvel at the spectacular cherry blossoms in Kyoto, but the city’s fall foliage is just as sublime.

Come November, Japan’s old capital, as magical as it already is, turns into a mysterious land of ornate temples and zen-inducing gardens – all draped in fiery maple trees. The landscape is carpeted in a blaze of autumnal colors, complemented by mild temps and sunny blue skies.

On top of that, temples and shrines around the city hold seasonal illumination events at night, making the experience even more mesmerizing. Among them are Kodaiji Temple, which also offers a unique projection mapping show, and Kiyomizudera, famous for its wooden veranda overlooking Kyoto rising out from a sea of red and orange trees.

Where to Stay in Kyoto: Surround yourself in Japanese warmth and elegance at Hotel Kanra Kyoto , a stylish design property with modern ryokan style rooms, a small ZEN spa, and a traditional teppanyaki restaurant with a refined focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

If you prefer icy glaciers over sunny beaches and licorice over pumpkin spice lattes, then a trip to Iceland in November might be the change of scenery you need.

The country is beautiful year-round, but there are a number of unique advantages that set this month apart from the rest of the year. A blend of fall and winter, it’s the ideal time to search for the elusive Northern Lights, party at the beloved Iceland Airwaves music festival, and engage in ice- and snow-related activities without the crowds.

November offers the perfect conditions to explore dazzling blue caves, hike on glaciers, and bathe in natural hot springs while surrounded by a snowy wonderland. The brave can also embark on an arctic surfing adventure off the Reykjanes Peninsula, or enjoy the unique chance to snorkel/dive in between tectonic plates at Silfra fissure.

Meanwhile, in Reykjavik, the nation’s quirky capital, bar hopping – accompanied by some delicious Icelandic comfort food – is just the right antidote to the short, dark days and cold weather outside.

Where to Stay in Iceland: For the ultimate Icelandic experience, book a room at the splendid Ion Adventure Hotel . Carved into the side of a mountain amid the long-dormant lava fields of Thingvellir National Park, this luxurious eco-conscious oasis combines adventure with relaxation – think glacier trekking, horseback riding, fissure-diving, and ice carving.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca in November is for foodies, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts.

With the summer crowds gone and the pace slowing down, late autumn visitors have a unique opportunity to discover a calmer, more authentic side of Spain’s largest Balearic island. The average temperature is around 15°C, but neither snowy mountains nor warm sunny beaches are unusual sights during this time of year.

November’s changing colors, along with a plethora of local fairs, make the countryside a joy to explore. The Dijous Bo in Inca is the island’s largest agricultural fair and includes everything from live music and art exhibitions to an annual Mallorcan black pig contest and auction.

Mushrooms take center stage at the annual Fira de l’esclata-sang i de la Muntanya in Mancor de la Vall, and the new wine is properly celebrated with wine tastings, winery tours, and lots of tapas at Santa María del Camí’s Festa del Vi Novell . There’s also a popular olive fair in the picturesque village of Caimari, a festival celebrating Mallorcan honey in Llubi, and a lively fun-filled pumpkin fair in the typical rural town of Muro.

Moreover, you can wander around beautiful Palma in peace, sample its increasingly sophisticated food scene without fighting for a table, and admire its awe-inspiring architecture stepping into fabulous Gothic churches and art galleries along the way.

Where to Stay in Mallorca: Nestled in Palma Old Town, the four-star Hotel Ca N’Alexandre offers excellent value with contemporary, tastefully decorated rooms, delicious local cuisine, and an unbeatable location close to shopping, dining, and major attractions.

In my opinion, I think Spain is one of the best countries to visit in November.

I agree! Especially Andalusia, since the weather is perfect in November.

Thanks! You’ve got me thinking. Any recommendations for areas to visit in Spain or events in November?

The South of Spain is great in November. The weather is generally sunny and pleasant, which makes it perfect for visiting Andalusia’s picturesque countryside with its whitewashed villages. November also marks the start of the olive harvest season in Spain, and many towns hold olive oil festivals. Malaga and Seville are also wonderful during this time of year, and so is Marbella – think fewer tourists, smaller prices, and lots of sunny days.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Never Miss A Story

I consent to receive email updates from Travel Away

Vacation Inspiration : 9 Best Places to Visit in November

Whether you want to take this month to explore an iconic American city or escape the cold for some much needed R&R in the Caribbean, here are our top destinations for a November trip.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in America. It has rich Native American history, strong Spanish influences, and a vibrant arts scene. The Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is a must, as is Canyon Road, a half-mile stretch in the historic district that boasts the highest concentration of art galleries in the city, where you will find a diverse selection ranging from Fernando Botero sculptures to handwoven Navajo rugs. Also take the trip out to Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu (an hour's drive from Santa Fe). O'Keeffe was so impressed by this 21,000-acre retreat that she lived there for forty years and prominently featured its landscapes in her work. Back in Santa Fe, the hottest new hotel in town is Bishop's Lodge , a legendary 150-year-old landmark that Auberge Resorts restored into a luxurious property that sits on 317 acres bordering the Santa Fe National Forest and beautifully pays homage to the city's Southwestern heritage with activities that range from sunrise horseback riding to guided pueblo tours.

Charleston, South Carolina

It’s no wonder this charming southern city has become an increasingly popular destination—it has rich history, so much delicious food (don't miss Fig and 167 Raw ), swoon-worthy architecture, and, perhaps most importantly, unparalleled southern hospitality. Mild temperatures (think high 60s and low 70s) during the month of November make it an ideal time to visit. While you’re in town, be sure to check out the South Carolina Historical Society Museum and the Gibbes Museum of Art for important lessons on Charleston's complicated history . Also consider a day trip out to Sullivan's Island, where you might go for a long stroll on the beach before stopping by the Obstinate Daughter for pizza. There are plenty of great boutique hotels to choose from, but a few of our favorites include 86 Cannon , Zero George , and The Dewberry .

Read Reviews Zero George

Read Reviews 86 Cannon

Read Reviews The Dewberry

Venice, Italy

There is no denying the inimitable charm and beauty of Venice. There is also no denying it's one of the most popular places on earth. The solution to avoiding hordes of tourists? Go in the off season, like in November. Spend your days exploring the city's plethora of cultural sights and landmarks. Guests of the luxurious Cipriani , a Belmond Hotel, will also be privy to behind-the-scenes tours of Venice's centuries-old libraries, where rare books and manuscripts will be on display just for you.

Read Reviews Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

The allure of this Mexico resort town is hard to beat—crystal clear turquoise waters, easy to reach from the East Coast, conveniently close to Cancun airport yet worlds away from the spring breakers scene up there. The lush Banyan Tree Mayakoba recently underwent a $50 million expansion, resulting in 34 new beachfront pool suites, among other things. What's more, this month the resort is debuting a new wellness program called Sanctuary Stays, which includes a 64-point assessment and access to healthy activities like ocean breath meditation. Even if you don't opt for a wellness-themed trip, don't skip out on Banyan Tree's award-winning spa, where you'll be in excellent hands: each therapist must go through at least 350 hours of training.

Read Reviews Banyan Tree Mayakoba

Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica

Nestled high in the clouds within the Pérez Zeledón mountains (and best reached via chartered flight from San Jose or Liberia airports) Auberge Resorts Collection's Hacienda AltaGracia , which opens this month, is a verdant paradise for wellness seekers. Its 180 acres encompass a working coffee farm, equine stables, vegetable gardens, and wild rainforest, but most enticing of all is that cult NYC spa THE WELL will also open its first Central American outpost at the resort and spearhead all of the holistic programming, which will include healing rituals using ancient practices, expert-led workshops, and plenty of spa treatments.

Read Reviews Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection

The Scottish Highlands

After one visit to this incredible scenic region of Scotland, it won't be hard to see why the queen so cherishes her annual summer holidays at Balmoral Castle . On the drive up, stop by Dundee to pay a visit to the Victoria & Albert Museum—fans of Succession will recognize the architectural landmark from season 2, when the Roy family goes to Dundee to honor their patriarch Logan (the actor Brian Cox also happens to be from the town). Then continue on up to Braemar, the tiny town that neighbors Balmoral (which is open for tours when the queen isn't in residence) . Stay at the Fife Arms , a former Victorian-era coaching inn that was completely transformed by art world power couple Iwan and Manuela Wirth into a jewel box of a property bursting with more than 16,000 works of art. The town also happens to be on the edge of Cairngorms National Park, the largest in the U.K., meaning there will be plenty to see alfresco, too.

Read Reviews The Fife Arms

Palm Springs, California

Months of triple digit temperatures finally come to an end by November in this California desert oasis, making activities like hiking (put Joshua Tree National Park on the itinerary), pool time, and alfresco dining all the more enjoyable with temperatures in the high 70s. As for hotels, the Instagrammable options are endless. Opt for a classic like the Parker , Colony Palms , or L’Horizon , which are generally considered the area’s top hotels, or stay in one of the area's signature Midcentury Modern homes (Airbnb has hundreds available) to live out your Slim Aarons fantasies. Or for a real splurge—and one-of-a-kind experience–rent out Twin Palms , Frank Sinatra's legendary Palm Springs hideaway, which has four bedrooms, a piano-shaped swimming pool, and tons of Sinatra memorabilia.

Read Reviews Colony Palms Hotel

Read Reviews The Parker Palm Springs

Read Reviews L'Horizon Resort & Spa

Read Reviews Frank Sinatra's Twin Palms Estate

Oracabessa, Jamaica

While on a World War II naval mission in 1942, British intelligence officer Ian Fleming became so enamored with this remote paradise in Jamaica that he later came back and built a 15-acre property—which he called GoldenEye—from which, over more than two decades, he would write each of his 14 James Bond novels. Today, GoldenEye is an idyllic resort of charming huts, cottages, and villas (Fleming's original standalone villa, preserved just the way he left it, can be rented out as well) that has mastered the home-away-from-home vibe. There is no signage on the road or the usual trappings of mega resorts, just authentic food, delicious drinks, and ultra-friendly service. The October 8 release of the latest 007 movie , No Time to Die , makes this the perfect month to pay a visit and live like Fleming for a little while.

Read Reviews GoldenEye

As it has only been a few years since the entire island had to rebuild itself after Hurricane Irma's destruction in 2017, expect everything to be fairly new on this one percenters' island playground. As for where to stay, the list of super upscale properties is long. The Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf , which opened last year, has just 23 rooms, most with plunge pools and private terraces looking out onto the picturesque, yacht-dotted harbor of Gustavia. Then there's Hotel Le Toiny on the other side of the island, with its 22 uber-private and spacious villas, each one measuring over 1,000 square feet and equipped with private pools and ocean views.

Book Now Hotel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf

Read Reviews Hotel Le Toiny

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} The Most Luxurious Family Travel Destinations @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

The Luxury Hotels in 'The Reluctant Traveler' S2

Best Room At...Stanly Ranch

Best Room At... Il Sereno Lake Como

The Best Room At… Necker Island

11 Romantic Hotels in (or Near) New York City

A Snob's Guide to Palm Beach

Best Room At… Hotel del Coronado

Winter Vacation Ideas to Start Planning Now

Is Windham Mountain Becoming Aspen East?

A Perfect Day in London's West End

How to Plan a Perfect Trip to Egypt

30 of the Best Places in the World to Visit in November

11/01/2023 by Ashley Yap 1 Comment

While many destinations around the world are experiencing autumn in full swing during the month of November, others in the Southern Hemisphere are gearing up for summer. Whether you’re looking for a chilly, not-yet-winter vibe or a springtime, cooler-than-summer atmosphere, November, the shoulder season for many tourist hot spots, offers mild temperatures.

These are the best places to travel in November around the world:

Table of Contents

1. The Maldives

The serene overwater bungalows , gorgeous clear waters, and some of the best snorkeling spots on Earth make a trip to the Maldives one for the books. Although it’s among the more expensive places to visit, you can save money by going in November, when it’s the shoulder season. This is the best time to score a deal on flights and hotels, but there are also plenty of other ways to save money on your trip to the Maldives .

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

While many solo travelers rave about the beaches in Thailand , I think the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai in the northern part of the country are where the magic is. Chiang Mai is a small city, but it packs a punch, what with its abundance of activities, like going to an elephant sanctuary or climbing up to a hilltop temple at Doi Suthep or Doi Kham.

November is the perfect time of year to visit, because the weather is cooler and drier. Otherwise, the soaring temperatures and high humidity might make it more difficult to enjoy outdoor activities, like hiking in the surrounding mountains .

Find your essential Chiang Mai guide here , with plenty of ideas for what to do.

3. Lombok, Indonesia

Just a stone’s throw from the mega-popular Indonesian island of Bali , Lombok is less so but might be even more beautiful than its neighbor. With stunning beaches, abundant waterfalls , and even a volcano that you can climb, Lombok is a nature lover’s paradise.

Visiting in November is especially ideal, because it’s relatively uncrowded, the weather is cooler than in the summer months, and the snorkeling is great, because of the water clarity and smaller crowds (here’s a solo travel guide for Indonesia ). It’s rainy season in November, which can actually be beneficial, as the waterfalls will be particularly full.

4. Coron, the Philippines

Coron is a diver’s paradise, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Whether you want to go island-hopping in the Philippines or make Coron the base for all of your adventures in the country, it is a spectacular pick.

November is an ideal time to visit Coron because it’s the very beginning of the dry season. By now, the monsoons have subsided, but the tourist crowds haven’t arrived on the island yet. Sure, you’ll see plenty of other travelers there, but it’s relatively quiet compared to December, January, and February.

If you love fall weather and want to experience it on the other side of the globe, consider heading to Japan this November (here’s a solo traveler’s guide to Japan ). Not only is the autumn foliage on point, but the sunny skies and chilly breezes give this island nation a big dose of coziness.

During the month of November, the serene gardens you’ll find throughout the country are even more lovely as they take on brilliant yellow, orange, and red hues. Check them out in Tokyo and Kyoto, or venture to places like the Nikko Toshogu Shrine or Hasedera Temple, where you can find red maple leaves in all their glory. Be sure to experience TEAMLAB PLANETS and check out Lake Kawaguchi . Here’s a packing list .

Middle East

6. petra, jordan.

This is another bucket list destination for many adventurous travelers. Petra is home to one of the most jaw-dropping archaeological sites in the world: the Treasury . This reddish-pink temple is a photographer’s dream destination, and November is prime time to get the best shots. Although it’s still relatively busy, it’s not as crowded as the spring or winter. Plus, the clear November skies allow for optimal lighting.

Petra in November lends the promise of more enjoyable temperatures, as winter is setting in. It’s perfect for a hike, and the trail between Little Petra and Petra is one of the best. You also shouldn’t miss the Monastery and High Place of Sacrifice.

Read next: The ultimate guide to solo female travel in Jordan

7. Pamukkale, Turkey

Famous for its calcium travertines, Pamukkale is home to one of the most unique landscapes in Turkey. These white terraces of sedimentary rock are filled with hot spring water ; the calcium deposits pile high upon one another, creating white shapes that look like clouds. Although Pamukkale might not be well known in the West, it’s a popular site for domestic visitors and gets very crowded in the summer.

November is a fantastic time to see this geological masterpiece, because it’s shoulder season for tourism. The weather is great then, too. It’s a little chilly, but not as cold as the depths of winter, when temps can drop to the 30s.

If Egypt has been on your bucket list but you’re turned off by the scorching temperatures of the desert, consider a November visit. This time of year is much cooler than the summer months, plus you’ll be able to dodge the crowds that appear in December and January, during peak season.

Besides checking out the pyramids of Giza (find out how to do it without a guide ), you can also take in the ancient temples of Luxor or hit up the beaches of Sharm El-Sheikh. If you’ve ever wondered if Egypt is safe for solo female travelers, check out this post , which has many helpful tips.

North America

9. québec, canada.

Fall is a superb season for a road trip through the province of Québec (here’s our Canada guide ). By November, the temperatures are brisk, but not too cold for a stroll through the woods to see the autumn leaves in all their colorful glory. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to get pampered at a Nordic spa, a popular activity in the province. Along this Québec road trip route , you’ll find some enchanting towns, scenic parks, and so much more. Tack on Québec City for the ultimate late-fall wonderland, as the city has a magical quality this time of year.

10. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

If you’ve been dying to see New Orleans but are turned off by the thick Louisiana heat and Mardi Gras crowds, consider going in November. This time of year is cooler but still warm and sunny. It’s perfect weather for a spooky walking tour through the city or an evening jazz boat cruise on the Mississippi River.

Prepare for November in New Orleans with this epic packing list , and beef up your itinerary with these awesome ideas for what to do in NOLA , with a special post just for the Bywater neighborhood .

11. Sedona, Arizona, USA

Sedona is one of the United States’ most prominent hubs for all things spiritual , attracting tons of visitors each year to experience its unique magic. Many people believe that there are several energy vortexes here, tucked into the red rocks surrounding the city. Not only is Sedona a must for spiritual seekers, but it’s also a nature lover’s paradise, with loads of awesome things to do outside.

Sedona can get pretty crowded in the summer months, but tourism tapers off by November. The weather is chilly, with a small chance you could get lucky with a light dusting of snow, which makes the surrounding landscapes even more beautiful.

12. Florida Keys road trip, USA

If you’re looking for a Caribbean paradise in the USA, make the Florida Keys your ultimate November destination. You can easily see all the islands, from Key Largo to Key West , in a one-week road trip . Here’s a list of amazing things to do while you explore, including snorkeling in Key Largo , sunset cruises in Key West , and historic islands in Islamorada . If you’re new to Florida, we have a solo female travel guide to help you get oriented.

November is one of the best months to visit the Florida Keys, because while it’s still technically hurricane season, they are extremely rare. The weather is beautiful, the crowds are still small, and prices are lower.

13. The Bahamas

With literally hundreds of islands to choose from for your Caribbean adventure, the Bahamas is just right for anyone looking for tropical getaway this November. November is the perfect month to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the Bahamas, because it’s far less crowded than other times of year. If you want to swim with pigs in the Exumas , cuddle up to nurse sharks, ride around on a golf cart in Staniel Cay , or any other activity in the Bahamas , November is ideal.

14. Sayulita, Mexico

On the coast of the Mexican state of Nayarit lies Sayulita, a bustling little town not far from the big resorts of Puerto Vallarta (here’s are top recommendations for places to stay ). It’s famous for having beautiful golden beaches, thick green jungles, and quaint islands just off the coast. There’s plenty to do in Sayulita to keep you busy, and it’s a great choice for solo travelers, because it also has a laid-back, small-community feel.

November is one of the best times of year to visit Sayulita, Mexico for a couple of reasons. First, the weather is great ( find out what to pack ). Temperatures are more mild, and the dry season is beginning, but peak tourism hasn’t totally ramped up yet. Second, it’s time for sea turtle hatching, so you’ll be able to see these little guys make their journey to the sea.

15. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Puerto Escondido, Mexico , used to be a small surfing village but is now one of the most popular beaches in Mexico . Like Sayulita, it’s on the Pacific coast, but further south, in the state of Oaxaca. There’s a totally different vibe here, though, as the town has remained more of a chill backpacker and surfer spot. From catching a wave to taking a rooftop yoga class or venturing out to a waterfall, there are plenty of things to do in Puerto Escondido .

But like Sayulita, Puerto Escondido’s sea turtle hatching is in full swing in November, and the weather is ideal. High season starts in December here, so visiting in November is a great way to take advantage of the great weather without dealing with the crowds.

16. Uvita, Costa Rica

Uvita is a small, sleepy beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, only about 90 minutes south of Manuel Antonio National Park . The town is home to Marino Ballena National Park, a smaller yet totally underrated park featuring a sandbar in the shape of a whale’s tail that you can only see during low tide. Uvita is charming, with an abundance of natural beauty in the form of pristine beaches, dense green jungles, and flowing waterfalls.

Peak tourism in Costa Rica is in full swing by December, making November an ideal time to visit . The weather is dry after months of rain ( here’s a packing list ), so everything is vibrantly green and lush. The abundance of sunshine is perfect for enjoying everything Uvita has to offer, without the craziness of high season.

Aruba’s beaches are world-class, with the most idyllic soft, white sands and calm, clear waters. This small Caribbean island has plenty to do , whether you’re popping in for a weekend or a week or two. Whether you spend your time snorkeling, scuba diving, catching a sunset at Eagle Beach , or chilling with flamingos on Flamingo Beach , Aruba is sure to charm you.

Since Aruba is such a popular beach destination, it can get crowded and pricey from December to March. November is the island’s shoulder season, which means great weather and fewer visitors.

Thinking of traveling alone? Find out why Aruba is ideal for solo female travelers here .

18. Iceland

There’s a good chance that Iceland is already on your travel bucket list, and I can’t blame you! If not for the gushing waterfalls, moody coastline, or hot springs galore, it has to be for the northern lights. If you want to visit Iceland during low season but still have a great chance of seeing the northern lights, November is perfect. It’s cold, but not usually super snowy, making it a stellar time for a road trip as well.

There are plenty of things to do in Iceland for any length of stay, whether you want to pop over to the Blue Lagoon during a long layover, or drive the adventurous Ring Road . It’s even possible to tackle the beautiful Golden Circle road-trip route in just 48 hours.

19. Amalfi Coast, Italy

If you’ve gone to the Amalfi Coast in Italy from late October to mid-March, you might be wondering, “What is she thinking?” because a lot of businesses close during this time, and some places become total ghost towns. However, that’s actually the reason why the Amalfi Coast is awesome in November. This part of Italy gets super crowded from late spring to early fall, with peak season in the summer. If you’ve always wanted to visit but didn’t want to be elbow to elbow with so many other travelers, do so in November. The weather here is perfect for a hike along the Path of the Gods , one of the best things to do on the Amalfi Coast. With highs in the mid-60s, you’ll enjoy cool seaside breezes as you hike, which is something you don’t necessarily get if you go in the summer.

20. Berlin, Germany

Crisp autumn leaves, sunny days, and vibrant festivals all characterize November here. Although some might argue that winter is the best time to visit Germany for the Christmas markets, who says you can’t do both?

November is the perfect month to see castles, go on a road trip , or explore the city. Apart from being absolutely beautiful because of the autumn colors and weather , Berlin’s also not nearly as crowded in November as it is in December, making it just the right month to get your fill of its coziness without the hectic holiday crowds.

21. Saxon Switzerland, Germany

Contrary to its confusing name, Saxon Switzerland is not in Switzerland but in Germany , just a three-hour drive from Berlin. This gorgeous natural area is incredible any time of year, but November is particularly magical because of the fall colors. As you hike through the forests and mossy rock stacks, you’ll come across some impressive viewpoints and fun opportunities to climb over huge boulders.

22. Croatia

This small coastal country seems to be jumping to the top of everyone’s bucket list these days, and I don’t blame them! Croatia is famous for its enchanting cities, fantastic cuisine, and brilliant blue waters, both on the coast and in inland streams and lakes. The color contrasts beautifully with the fiery orange leaves you’ll see in November, making it one of the best times of year to go there.

Not only is Croatia one of the best places in Europe to live , but visiting is a treat as well. While prices in Croatia are on the rise due to a recent increase in tourism, it remains a relatively cheap destination in Europe , and November comes after high season, meaning you can score deals on accommodation and flights.

23. Crete, Greece

By November there are hardly any tourists on the Greek islands , making a visit to Crete ideal (here’s how to island hop the Greek Isles ). This is the ultimate opportunity to see how Cretans live and get to know the culture. It’s still warm, although not quite enough to swim in most places. However, there is plenty to do on the island that doesn’t involve getting wet.

November marks the beginning of olive harvesting season, and going to an orchard is an awesome way to spend an afternoon. It’s also fantastic for a hike in Lefka Ori National Park . The onset of autumn rains produces a greener view of the mountainous interior of the island, which is a spectacular thing to witness.

24. Albania

You might have seen all kinds of Albania travel spam on the internet this summer, with picture-perfect shots of beaches, cute towns, and other aesthetically pleasing scenes. That’s because Albania sort of exploded in popularity, due to its beauty and affordability.

Consider heading to Albania in November to experience this gorgeous and culturally rich country in all its glory — sans tourists. The weather is chilly, but you’ll catch some beautiful fall foliage at the beginning of the month. Consider checking out Theth National Park for some stellar hiking or cruising on Skadar Lake .

South America

25. the galápagos islands, ecuador.

Visiting the Galápagos Islands is a must if you love exploring nature and seeing wildlife . This small archipelago off the coast of Ecuador is far from being a budget destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money in the Galápagos , one of them being going in November.

This month wraps up the dry season on the islands , but the busy time starts in December. That means you’ll have great weather and fewer crowds, along with a good chance to save money.

26. Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Patagonia is one of the most spectacular places on Earth, and Torres del Paine National Park in Chile has some of the region’s most impressive landscapes. One of the most famous hikes is the O Circuit , which has ever-changing scenery throughout the trek, featuring mind-blowing rock formations, an ice field, and incredible vistas.

Tourist season in Patagonia is just beginning in November, as it’s the start of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. That means you’ll have great weather in Torres del Paine, with sparser crowds than in busier summer months like December and January. Plan to spend at least a week exploring; check out this nine-day itinerary to give you a better idea of how to spend your time there.

27. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a photographer’s dream and an architecture lover’s paradise. Intricate and colorful tiles line the inside of buildings, with idyllic archways leading you from one gorgeous place to another.

November is a great time to see the Red City , because the scorching heat has subsided by now, and tourism is far from its peak. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the streets and markets of Marrakech or venture out to the desert for an adventure .

28. Namibia

Namibia is the ultimate adventurer’s paradise. I mean, how many people do you know who have gone all the way to Namibia? If you’re up for it, the payoff is totally worth it, as it’s perhaps one of the most underrated destinations in the world.

The country is almost entirely covered in desert, with towering orange sand dunes that you can sandboard on . You can also find some stunning canyons, waterfalls, and mountain landscapes here, as well as the famously treacherous Skeleton Coast.

One of the main reasons why people travel to Namibia is to go on safari. These can be pricey from June to October, so visiting in November (just at the beginning of rainy season) is a great choice if you want to snag a deal. Also consider road-tripping through Namibia , as it’s one of the best ways to see the diversity of landscapes and make the most out of everything this beautiful country has to offer.

29. Mozambique

If Mozambique has slipped under your travel radar undetected, this is your sign to give this beautiful coastal African country a shot. It has some of the loveliest beaches I’ve ever seen, like Vilanculos and Tofo . Not only is this nation naturally stunning, but the people there are warm, friendly, and incredibly hospitable. It’s the consummate destination for travelers who want to get off the beaten path, immerse themselves in a new culture, and have a blast doing so.

One of the main reasons why November is a stellar time to visit Mozambique is for whale shark season. Diving off the coast of Tofo is one of the best ways to see them, along with much other marine life. November is also the beginning of summer here, which means lots of sunshine but higher temperatures, so be prepared with plenty of sun protection.

30. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is easily one of my favorite places on the continent . It’s a vibrant city with an incredible art scene, spectacular food, and lots of outdoorsy activities. November is ideal, because the weather is amazing: sunny skies and warm temperatures, but not as hot as summer.

It can get pretty crazy in Cape Town during the holiday season, with crowds reaching their peak in December. That’s why it’s great to visit in November, because you can avoid them for the most part.

Find out what there is to do in Cape Town here .

That’s it, folks! Thirty amazing places to visit in November from all around the globe.

Let us know which one of these places sounds the best for you this November!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Malik Ligao says

10/13/2022 at 4:51 pm

What a beautiful places to visit, but one of my bucket list is Japan!

Change location

• UK / International
• Call toll-free tomorrow from 9am EDT 617-223-4521 617-223-4521 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

Best places to travel in November 2024

Sunny beaches in Thailand, wintry cities in France and blazing foliage in Japan — you can choose from a wide variety of destinations if you’re planning to travel in November. Below, we’ve selected some of the best places to visit, as well as some suggestions of what to see and do while you’re there.

Popular cities in Europe empty out, giving you free run of museums in France and Italy. Crowds also thin in Peru, so you’ll have more elbow room to enjoy Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. Thailand and Vietnam both have sunny weather suitable for a beach break.

Festivals and events around the world in November

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our destination specialists

• 617-223-4521 617-223-4521
• Make an inquiry

If you’re after a real winter-wonderland experience and are prepared for the cold, November is a rewarding time of year to visit Sweden . Plummeting temperatures bring snow, especially in the far north of the country, so it’s a great time to explore Sweden’s landscapes through activities such as husky sledding — or even reindeer herding with Lapland’s indigenous Sámi people. November is also a good time of year to see the northern lights, wherever you are in the country. Visiting Sweden in November also means you won’t have to contend with the busyness of Christmastime, when Swedish families often travel domestically.

• Don't miss: Swedish winter wonderland
• Flight time: 8 hours 30 minutes (New York to Stockholm)
• Time difference: UTC +1
• November Temperature (Day): 41 to 43°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 2 to 3in, varies by region
• Explore Sweden
• Sweden tours

November is a classic time of year to visit Mexico , for one main reason: this is when the country launches itself into an exuberant festive mood for its Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), taking place around the first day of November. Yes, it’ll be busy, especially in Oaxaca  and Mexico City , but that’s all part of the experience, as communities celebrate with parades, live music, and candlelit feasting in cemeteries. November is also a good month to visit the country as a whole: the rainy season has usually petered out by now and warm days have returned, making it a good time to explore Mexico’s smaller towns, beaches and coastal regions.

• Don't miss: Highlights of Mexico: Mexico City, Mérida & Isla Holbox
• Flight time: 4 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Cancun)
• Time difference: UTC -6
• November Temperature (Day): 72 to 93°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 0 to 5in, varies by region
• Explore Mexico
• Mexico tours
• Mexico travel guides

November is one of the most popular months to explore Vietnam. In the northern areas, the heat, rain and humidity of summer start to decrease dramatically and you’ll find pleasantly warm temperatures and dry days. In the south, this is the beginning of the hot dry season, making it an excellent time to relax on Vietnam’s beaches including Phu Quoc, Mui Ne and Phan Thiet. The central region remains balmy at this time of year, but you can expect occasional bursts of sudden, heavy rainfall.

• Don't miss: Vietnam’s best beach resorts
• Flight time: 22 hours (New York to Hanoi)
• Time difference: UTC +7
• November Temperature (Day): 70 to 86°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 1 to 25in, varies by region
• Explore Vietnam
• Vietnam tours
• Vietnam travel guides

4. Australia

Spring is in full swing and temperatures are on the rise, though are still mild enough to make for comfortable hiking conditions along the coast and in the country’s national parks. Landscapes in the north are peppered with wildflowers after stormy downpours, and rainforests and wetlands are alive with birds and other wildlife. It’s also a good time to stroll city streets in the south, where it’s warm and dry, and for a road trip along the east coast before the days heat up. It’s warm and sunny on the beaches, although the water is a little cooler after the winter months.

• Don't miss: Margaret River
• Flight time: 20 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Sydney)
• Time difference: UTC +7 to UTC +11
• November Temperature (Day): 61 to 100°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 0 to 7in, varies by region
• Explore Australia
• Australia tours
• Australia travel guides

5. South Africa

Marking the beginning of South Africa’s summer, November brings pleasantly warm temperatures, without being as hot as later in the season. While rains arrive in some areas, such as Kruger National Park and KwaZulu-Natal, these tend to be short and stormy, leaving the air fresh afterwards. It means there are fewer visitors on safari in the Kruger, despite it still being a good time for seeing wildlife. Elsewhere, it’s a good time to drive the Garden Route, and you can still pause to see southern right whales off the coast before they migrate south.

• Don't miss: A trip of two halves: the Garden Route and Eastern Cape safari
• Flight time: 20 hours (New York to Cape Town)
• Time difference: UTC +2
• November Temperature (Day): 68 to 82°F, depending on region
• Explore South Africa
• South Africa tours
• South Africa travel guides

With crisp air, blue skies and the most brilliant foliage of the season, November is an excellent time to visit Japan. Mountainsides erupt in flaming orange, bright crimson and glowing gold leaves, providing an eye-catching backdrop for the country’s many walking trails. In the cities, you can visit temples and shrines, which often have leafy gardens, for easy foliage viewing. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially toward the end of the month, but it’s easy to slip into a hot spring to warm up.

• Don't miss: Gardens of Japan
• Flight time: 14 hours upwards dependent on airline (New York to Tokyo)
• Time difference: UTC +9
• November Temperature (Day): 36 to 77°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 2 to 10in, varies by region
• Explore Japan
• Japan tours
• Japan travel guides

Because it boasts a mild, Mediterranean climate, Italy remains an excellent destination in November. While it’s the country’s rainiest month, November temperatures stay well above freezing, even in the north. In the southern cities like Naples and Palermo, days are fairly balmy with temperatures hovering in the 60s. If you brave the somewhat unpredictable weather, you’ll be rewarded with museums and popular sights that are mostly emptied out of visitors, even in the often-crowded Art Cities. Additionally, hotel prices drop sharply. However, hiking trails are largely closed.

• Don't miss: Food highlights of Italy
• Flight time: 8 hours 25 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Rome)
• November Temperature (Day): 46 to 68°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 2 to 6in, varies by region
• Explore Italy
• Italy tours
• Italy travel guides

Though November marks the end of the dry season, conditions in Peru are still pleasant. Lima is usually dry throughout the month, though you’re likely to encounter rain in Machu Picchu and Cuzco toward the end of the month. Birdlife and flora are abundant in the cloudforests. In the southern Amazon, the rivers aren’t yet swollen with the rains and animals still come close to the banks, allowing for better wildlife viewing. Crowds are thinner than you’ll find earlier in the year and hotel prices are lower.

• Don't miss: Lake Titicaca
• Flight time: 10 hours 30 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Lima)
• Time difference: UTC -5
• November Temperature (Day): 72 to 84°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 0 to 0in, varies by region
• Explore Peru
• Peru travel guides

9. Thailand

In Thailand, November marks the start of the dry, cool season, which is generally seen as the best time to visit. Consider visiting in the early part of the month to beat the crowds, especially on the beaches on the west coast. Khao Lak, Phuket and Krabi are particularly attractive, with clear skies and hot weather. The only exception is Koh Samui, which often sees lots of rain at this time of year. In northern Thailand, you’ll experience cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings as winter begins to encroach. The more moderate weather is conducive to hiking in the area’s national parks.

• Don't miss: Thailand's best beach vacations and resorts
• Flight time: 23 hours (New York to Bangkok)
• November Temperature (Day): 79 to 95°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 0 to 31in, varies by region
• Explore Thailand
• Thailand tours
• Thailand travel guides

Temperatures drop and visitor numbers follow suit, making this month a great time for enjoying authentic Parisian life and time in museums and galleries without the summer crowds. Paris is a delight at this time of year — restaurants are lively with locals, but the main sights are largely empty. The weather is consistently cool, hovering in the 50s and almost never dipping to freezing, even at night, though you can expect rain. Hotels in some of the cities often offer good prices, though some regions —like the Riviera and Normandy — are largely closed down.

• Don't miss: Beaujolais and Mâconnais wine regions
• Flight time: 7 hours 20 upwards dependent on airline (New York to Paris)
• November Temperature (Day): 50 to 61°F, depending on region
• November rainfall: 3 to 6in, varies by region
• Explore France
• France tours
• France travel guides

More ideas by month

The 14 Best Places to Travel in November

November is usually more aligned with holiday prep than jet setting but traveling during this shoulder season is a great time to burn those last few vacation days. The shoulder season also offers flight deals to bucket-list destinations, milder weather in extreme climates, and a less busy time to tour Insta-worthy sites.

"You're missing the summer crowd and the Christmas crowd, so it's the perfect time of the season to travel if you are a little bit aware of the weather," says Joan Roca, CEO and founder of the bespoke travel planning company, Essentialist .

"You get more connected to the destinations this time of the year because it's more of the local atmosphere, but there's a lot going on," adds Roca. "You feel like you can do a little bit of everything and discover the city at your own pace."

To help you discover your next trip, here's our list of the best places to travel in November 2022.

The 10 Best Fall Road Trips in the U.S., No Question, Hands Down

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

• Why We Love It:  mild weather, fewer crowds, arts + entertainment, cultural cuisine
• Where to Stay: Charming Treme Cottage (from $135/night), Cambria New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District (from $148/night)

November in NOLA is bustling with food , music, and culture, but you won't have to deal with summer's heat waves and crowds. From beignets to po boys to gumbo, savor local Cajun and Creole cuisine, or stroll the French Quarter for a taste of history—or if you're up for a party.

"The change of seasons is always something beautiful," adds Roca. "There's always this opportunity of doing a little bit more and doing some activities that maybe are not possible in summer."     

Early November is a foodie and cultural paradise with the Bayou Bacchanal festival celebrating Caribbean Culture in the city, the Oak Street Po-Boy Festival and the New Orleans Film Festival .

2. Miami, Florida

• Why We Love It : mild weather, beaches, fewer crowds, food + wine, arts + entertainment,
• Where to Stay: Ocean view suite (from $132/night), InterContinental Miami (from $229/night)

This coastal metropolis is a popular vacation spot for its renowned restaurants, nightlife, art, and luxury hotels. But, Roca notes the city's more recent transformation makes it worth a visit this November.

"We see a lot of people are discovering it again from different angles," adds Roca. "And there's like a lot of things going on like new properties, new restaurants, new exhibitions… It's a different city these days."

November is also Miami Live Arts Month and a great time to explore the city as you enjoy plant-based eats during Seed Food & Wine Week . If you're in the holiday spirit, November also kicks off the city's holiday preparations illuminating the city.

3. Austin, Texas

• Why We Love It: mild weather, arts + entertainment, fewer crowds
• Where to Stay: Contemporary Guest House (from $263/night), Wyndham Garden Hotel Austin (from $107/night)

Austin is an excellent destination for foodies and music lovers. Plus, November gets you closer to those comfy 70-degree days and out of the dreaded Texas heat.

"There's a lot of cultural music scenes, and there's a lot of activities," says Roca. "This is the kind of place for the culture, the entertainment, and the music crowd."

Austin has so much more than Texas's staple BBQ, and you can explore the city's food scene during the Austin Food & Wine Festival . Then catch some live music or a comedy show at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater . You can also experience local art from Latinx and Hispanic artists during Latino Art Weekend .

4. Santa Fe, New Mexico

• Why We Love It: mild weather, fewer crowds, mountain views, arts + entertainment, cultural cuisine
• Where to Stay: Renovated Loft (from $104/night), Inn of the Turquoise Bear (from $259/night)

According to Roca, New Mexico is a great place to discover in November, thanks to good weather and being an unlikely destination on people's radar.

Located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountain foothills, Santa Fe offers a mix of nature, art, music, and historic Pueblo-style architecture. Local art is everywhere in the city, but Santa Fe is primarily known for its textile arts. November also hosts the upcycled art market at Recycle Santa Fe for more modern arts.

Enjoy the mountain views hiking the Aspen Vista Trail , or catch some early skiing at the Santa Fe Ski Basin if the weather cooperates. Santa Fe also offers incredible live music venues and a unique mix of cuisines, including Mexican, Pueblo, Spanish, Native American, and Tex-Mex eats.

5. New York, New York

• Why We Love It: fewer crowds, public transportation, arts + entertainment, holiday cheer
• Where to Stay: Cozy renovated brownstone (from $165/night), Hyatt Place Times Square (from $299/night)

NYC's pre-holiday season lets you live out your Hallmark Christmas movie fantasies. With the temperature dropping into prime sweater weather, enjoy holiday activities like ice skating, strolling through Macy's, touring the holiday lights and storefronts, and shopping at Christmas markets.

"Christmas comes very early in New York," says Roca. "We definitely see it as a destination that can be a good fit for this quick Christmas season… It's always a city that transforms itself. No matter what happens, it always comes out strong and with a new wave of reinvention."

Musical theater fans will also love the exclusive and free viewings during  Broadway Under The Stars and Broadway Performances at Hudson Yards . Brooklyn's arts and entertainment scene are also busy with Photoville in Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Brooklyn Folks Festival. Plus, patio season also isn't quite over in November, and many rooftop bars are still open for a nightcap and views.

6. Park City, Utah

• Why We Love It: fewer crowds, travel deals, skiing, cozy lodges
• Where to Stay: Condo with Jacuzzi Steps to Lifts (from $199/night), Raintree's Park Plaza Park City (from $142/night)

Winter is usually the prime time for fresh powder in Park City. But you can score some great skiing deals when late November snow hits.

"Depending on the year, some ski resorts open mid, late November," says Roca. "If you have the flexibility—and you keep an eye on the snow reports—you can sometimes get very good deals because they are just opening the ski season. And there's not a lot of people who book in advance for those days."

When you're not hitting the slopes, head to Olympic Park to check out the site of the 2002 Winter Olympics. You can enjoy the snow with tubing or get major G's bobsledding. For more relaxation, lounge in a cozy lodge or visit Main Street's historic buildings, restaurants, and quaint boutiques.

7. Porto, Portugal

• Why We Love It: easy flights, food + wine, historic and artsy architecture, public transportation
• Where to Stay: Luz Calma (from $100/night), In the Village (from $289/night),

November is the start of Portugal's winter and a low tourism season. However, it still offers relatively warm temps that are perfect for exploring the coastal city's iconic bridges, lavish architecture, and Port wine scene.

"In Porto , you get a combination of a very lively city with lots going on and lots of food. It's kind of ticking all the boxes for the modern traveler."

As you stroll the winding cobblestone streets, there are always colorful murals and street artists among the buildings that date back to the Middle Ages. The Ribeira district also offers more modern shops and restaurants to experience some of Portugal's best cuisine.

8. Marrakech, Morocco

• Why We Love It: cooler temps, vibrant culture, easy to combine with other European destinations
• Where to Stay: Riad Goloboy (from $108/night), Dar Silsila (from $72/night)

If you're looking for a more exotic destination full of intricate palaces, mosques, and gardens, Morocco finally starts to cool down in November. An ideal time for walking the colorful walled marketplaces of the Medina quarter and savoring Moroccan cuisine at the food stalls.  

"[November] is a perfect time of the year," says Roca. "You're going to have perfect weather, it is going to be mild and maybe will get a little bit cooler overnight."

Roca also suggests combining a trip to Morocco with a European destination like Paris or Madrid. It's a great way to combine different cultural experiences into one trip.

9. Placencia, Belize

• Why We Love It: cooler weather, jungles, beaches, travel deals, cultural festivals
• Where to Stay: Point House (from $165/night), La Vida Belize Casita (from $172/night)

"Belize is a destination we are recommending for a lot of discovery, and it's a place that embodies what you picture the Caribbean to be," says Roca.

If you're ready for turquoise blue waters and tranquil beaches, Belize is coming out of its rainy season in November. Temperatures will also be mild, perfect for hiking the rain forests and Mayan ruins.

November is also the beginning of Belize's peak season, so you may be able to snag some deals on hotels and tours before the crowds roll in. Plus, it's one of the best times to experience Belize's vibrant culture during the country's biggest national holiday Garifuna Settlement Day.

10. Santiago and Viña del Mar Chile + Chilean Patagonia

Why We Love It: varied landscapes, food + wine, fewer crowds, cooler weather

Where to Stay: Hotel Plaza San Francisco in Santiago (from $139/night), Geodesic Dome With Glacier and Mountain Views in Chilean Patagonia (from $159/night)

Chile is entering the end of its spring shoulder season in November, so you'll likely avoid large crowds. Perfect for exploring the country's breathtaking views of the Andes and Chilean Coast Range mountains, the Pacific coastline, or the cityscapes of Santiago. You'll want to take your Chile vacation beyond one destination.

 "Chile has a little bit of everything," says Roca. "You move from the desert to forest to cities….There is a combination of great wine, great accommodation (there are hotels that are very innovative and have sustainability aspects as well), and it is one of the best places in the world to do star gazing."

The Chilean side of Patagonia also offers picturesque glacial lakes and rainforests. And if you're up for an epic trip through the wilderness, you can also make your way to the Argentine side. 

11. Buenos Aires and Mendoza Argentina + Argentine Patagonia 

• Why We Love It: varied landscapes, wine +food, fewer crowds, cooler weather, arts + entertainment
• Where to Stay: Blue Sky Mendoza  (from $80/night), Fierro Hotel Buenos Aires in Buenos Aires (from $201/night), Patagonia Austral Suites (from $103/night)

Chile's neighbor Argentina is also experiencing its shoulder season, making it a great time to get some deals and beat the crowds. You'll wonder in the country's natural beauty surrounded by the Andes, even while walking the city of Buenos Aires. In Patagonia, you'll see the Argentine side's grassland, deserts, and ice fields.

"Argentina is such a broad country from the South to the North," says Roca. "La Pampa, for instance, is a very interesting destination people are enjoying a lot, where you see those big fields."

This November, Buenos Aires is also hosting a stop during the famous Primavera Sound F estival's South America route. Plus, no trip to Argentina is complete without sipping the region's Malbecs in Mendoza wine country.

12. Paris, France  

• Why We Love It: travel deals, less crowded, food + wine, art, public transportation
• Where to Stay: Courtyard Apartment (from $102/night), Hotel Maison Mère (from $237/night)

Paris is having a revival, and everyone wants to go (Thanks, Emily in Paris ). However, Roca notes that visiting this destination during peak season is getting very expensive. But in November, tourism dips, so you'll score more discounts on flights and hotels.

It'll be chilly, but you'll miss the harsh winter as you stroll the city's romantic and historic streets . And, the weather can't put a damper on enjoying the galleries at the Louvre and enjoying French cuisine and wine. If you take a trip to the South of France, November has specialty foodie events like the Bordeaux S o Good festival.

Roca also notes that now is the time to visit Paris before the city hosts the 2024 Olympics, as he thinks we'll see an even bigger influx of tourism.

13. Rome, Venice, and Florence, Italy 

Why We Love It: travel deals, arts + entertainment, public transportation, less crowded, food + wine

Where to Stay: Trevi Palace Hotel in Rome (from $121/night), Al Ponte Antico Hotel in Venice (from $191/night), Hotel David in Florence (from $117/night)

An Italian vacation is another bucket list trip, but it's costly and crowded during the peak seasons. But if you travel in November, you can see the ruins of Rome, the canals of Venice, and the world's most renowned artists in Florence—without breaking the bank. You can also catch the end of the Venice Biennale —a cultural art exhibition featuring artists from around the globe.

"This year, we've had the unique combination of very hot weather, and the top destinations were extremely busy," says Roca. "November is still a very good time because the prices will be less than half of what they used to be."

You'll trade fewer crowds and flight deals for cooler weather and some rain. But the fresh pasta, caffè, and wine will warm you right up.

14. Auckland, New Zealand

• Why We Love It: mild weather, arts + entertainment, beaches, food + wine, multi-cultural
• Where to Stay: Whangaparaoa Lodge (from $91/night), Hotel DeBrett (from $245/night)

A November trip to New Zealand's largest city is a great way to escape the winter weather for a mix of urban and natural sites. "It's the best part of the spring there, so it's a good window of opportunity," adds Roca.

Sky Tower offers impressive views of Viaduct Harbour in the city, and there's a multi-cultural mix of local cuisine and wine. For more local history and art, learn about the indigenous Maori culture at the Auckland War Memorial Museum and enjoy live music at several venues.  

Nearby Waiheke Island also offers natural landscapes full of vineyards and fine dining. Or visit Rangitoto Island to hike up a dormant volcano.

Where to Stay and What to Do in Bacalar, Mexico—the Trendiest Spot South of the Border

Freelance PureWow Editor

Not Sure Where to Travel This November? Go to One of These 10 Places.

If you’re looking for ideas on where to travel this november, consider going to one of these 10 incredible places around the world..

• Copy Link copied

Enjoy the colder weather in places like Portland, a city known for its parks, bridges, and books.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

If you’re thinking about where to travel this November, consider relocating the turkey-powered family get-together. There are countless destinations offering a delicious counterpoint to that perennial meal, whether you’d prefer gluhwein and Sacher torte in a wintry corner of Europe or the chance for a summery day alfresco sipping some of Down Under’s best wines. Then again, you could opt for some brainfood in the Pacific Northwest closer to home.

Here are the 10 best places to travel in November.

1. Portland, Oregon

November is great for: book nerds and would-be authors both

Of course, they used to call it Wordstock. Now that culture fest is known by a more conventional moniker, the Portland Book Festival , as it’s grown in heft and popularity—more than 100 authors will participate in the day-long bash on November 4. There will be discussions, readings, and writing workshops, but plan ahead because it’s cheaper to buy a day pass in advance. Last year’s headliners included Red White & Royal Blue author Casey McQuiston, actress Selma Blair, Jess Walter of Beautiful Ruins fame, and Taylor Jenkins Reid, riding high on the adaptation of her book Daisy Jones & the Six.

Of course, Portland is famous for its literary scene year-round: Powell’s, known as the City of Books, occupies an entire city block downtown and claims to be the world’s largest independent and secondhand bookstore, with more than 1 million titles to read. It’s as much a landmark as a shop now, so allow ample time to browse its reassuringly musty shelves. If you’re in town on the third Thursday of every month, and have creative leanings of your own, road test some writings in public at Slamlandia , the Literary Arts–hosted poetry open mic.

Where to stay

• Book now: Woodlark Hotel

The 150-room hotel combines two old buildings—the onetime Cornelius Hotel and the namesake Woodlark—into a funky, boutique property run by local specialist Provenance, which has a clutch of cool crashpads in the city. Book dinner at Bullard, run by Top Chef finalist Doug Adams.

How to get to Portland

PDX is one of the hubs for Alaska Airlines, so expect easy connections on that carrier—there are nonstops to everywhere from Boise, Idaho, to Billings, Montana.

Learn about U.S. Indigenous history at the Chickasaw Cultural Center.

Photo by Kit Leong/Shutterstock

2. Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma

November is great for: celebrating Indigenous American culture

November is Native American Heritage Month, so it’s worthwhile to pause, reflect, and learn about the culture of America long before Europeans arrived. Remember: One person’s Thanksgiving is another’s National Day of Mourning, an alternative focus on the damage done to Indigenous nations by the incoming settlers.

When Indigenous nations were forcibly relocated to what was dubbed Indian Territory, one of their last refuges was what’s now known as Oklahoma. The Southeast-based Chickasaw were forced to move to a Midwest area redubbed Chickasaw Country. Almost two centuries later, it’s an enriching place to visit and learn about Indigenous culture. The Chickasaw Cultural Center is a 109-acre complex that offers several interactive exhibits about the nation’s language, heritage, and traditions. The Chickasaw White House was home to Chickasaw Governor Douglas Henry Johnston and his family until 1971, before becoming a museum.

Beyond the cultural sights, be sure to check out the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and Lake Murray for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

• Book now: Artesian Hotel

Profits from the 81-room Artesian Hotel in nearby Sulphur, Oklahoma, go toward essential services for the Chickasaw Nation people.

How to get to Chickasaw Country

Allegiant flies nonstop to Oklahoma City from Los Angeles, Frontier connects it with Denver, and there’s a Dallas nonstop from American Airlines. From Oklahoma City, take a 1.5-hour drive south to get to Chickasaw Country.

Punta de Mita is a 1,500-acre peninsula on Mexico’s western coast.

Photo by robertoo86/Shutterstock

3. Punta de Mita, México

November is great for: gourmet safaris and ghostly apparitions

Many people come to Mexico early in the month for a chance to experience the surreal and immersive celebrations for Dia de los Muertos . The festival is celebrated around the country and despite its worldwide fame, don’t assume it’s simply a tourist-baiting event and a chance for everyone to paint their faces. To Mexicans, November 1 is momentous and meaningful.

The particular lure to this Pacific Coast enclave this month is a chance for more earthly delights—specifically, the 28th Festival Gourmet International , a 10-day celebration of food and wine in a spectacular setting. It draws around 25,000 people to see more than 70 chefs and try vino from 20 wineries, running from November 9–19; past names have included Enrique Olvera and Hell’s Kitchen winner Kori Sutton.

Events include a so-called gourmet safari, or progressive dinner, at two or four restaurants, as well as a gourmet brunch and a picnic to close it out under the parota trees on an avocado ranch. There’s even a LGBTQ+ event, a nod to the region’s popularity with that community.

Book now: Naviva, Four Seasons

Go on, spoil yourself. This 15-tent glamping hideout is a hotel-within-a-hotel, sitting next to the OG Four Seasons here on its own, 48-acre oceanfront forest reserve.

How to get to Punta de Mita

Its closest airport is PVR, which has connections on all the legacy carriers to most major U.S. hubs. Sun Country operates seasonal service from Minneapolis starting this month, too.

The forerunner of the Christmas Market was held in Vienna, in the late 13th century, before spreading around the continent and the world.

Photo by Alena Veasey/Shutterstock

4. Vienna, Austria

November is great for: getting a jump on holiday shopping in style

Is it Christmas yet? By the middle of November, it certainly already is in Vienna , the spiritual home of the trinket market.

Many of its squares are commandeered by stallholders—follow the smell of hot gluhwein and toasted almonds wafting around the chilly air to find the next one. City hall square is home to the Vienna Christmas World: Enter on Rathausplatz to browse 150 different booths, selling gifts, decorations, and nibbles. (Make sure to snap a photo in front of the kitschy Tree of Hearts, filled with LED heart-shaped lights.)

A more trad experience comes from Freyung’s Old Viennese Christmas Market, with its hand-blown glass ornaments and chamber music—squint slightly, and you could be at the first market held here, in the 1770s. The family-friendly Christmas Market in front of Schönbrunn Palace has a formal children’s program, including workshops, plus one of the prettiest settings.

• Book now: Hotel Sacher

Sure, the rooms are nice at this flouncy, fancy hotel that’s been a magnet for major names (think JFK and Queen Elizabeth II) since it opened in 1876. But the real reason to stay here is a chance to gorge on a slab of its namesake cake, the original Death by Chocolate.

How to get to Vienna

Austrian Airlines flies nonstop from EWR, IAD, and ORD year-round.

Travelers headed to Thailand in November can expect temperatures between mid 70s and mid 80s.

Photo by spritekiku/Shutterstock

5. Phuket, Thailand

November is great for: a month-long series of very different celebrations

This month is a busy one on Phuket (perhaps Thailand ’s best-known tropical getaway, a 222-square-mile island on the Andaman Sea). The three-day Patong Carnival, kick-started by a huge parade along Sai Kor Road, begins on November 1 this year. Last year, events included a tattoo contest, concerts, and a fashion show.

On November 19, the world’s MAMILs will gather here for the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, the longest running in Asia: The mile or so swim, 31-mile bike ride, and 7.5-mile run are scheduled to make the most of the scenery here. If you don’t fancy slipping on some Lycra, but would rather cheer the competitors from the sidelines, it’s a thrilling experience, as the main starting, finishing, and transition points are usually around the same area.

This year, the full moon night of the 12th lunar month falls on November 27–29 so that’s when Phuket foregrounds its Buddhist and Hindu roots, via the Loy Krathong celebrations. These involve releasing paper lanterns into the sky and dropping the namesake floating boats—lotus-shaped craft, filled with flowers, candles and incense, and made from banana leaves—to drift away down the river, canal, or into a lake. It’s easy to pick one up for yourself at a local market in the days leading up to the festival.

Even better, rainy season is easing by November, so the mercury stays high. The ocean remains warm and inviting, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

• Book now: V Villas Phuket

The 19-villa, three-year-old resort on a private hillside in Ao Yon Bay is an ideal hideout from some of the chaos of Phuket. Idle in your own private pool, ask the butler to draw a bath, or book a spa treatment or two.

How to get to Thailand

Thai Airways suspended service stateside in 2015 amid financial troubles and has no plans to reup it soon, so there are no direct nonstop flights to the country from America. Opt instead to connect via Singapore, on Singapore Airlines, or transit via Tokyo on Delta—both to Bangkok. From there, it’s a 90-minute flight south to Phuket.

One insider tip: If you want to sleep in on Turkey Day, you can preview the balloons the night before—they’re blown up on West 77th Street.

Photo by a katz/Shutterstock

6. New York City

November is great for: late-season leaf peeping and an entirely different kind of tree

In recent years, NYC has been an unlikely late-stage fall foliage destination: The trees of Central Park have held their leaves until this month, creating a last-chance glimpse of fall. Download the map produced by the nonprofit Central Park Conservancy, which allows you to navigate the various zones around its more than 840 acres. Don’t miss the golden leaves of the American elms on the Mall, which remain inexplicably (and thrillingly) free of Dutch elm disease, baffling scientists.

Linger for Thanksgiving, and you can experience two classic New York institutions in less than a week. First, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the hours-long Broadway-and-balloon extravaganza that snakes through Manhattan; no word yet on 2023’s new balloons, but last year’s additions included a one-eyed Minion and Bluey.

Then on November 29, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lighting ceremony takes place, with Al Roker and a variety show—last year, helmed by Jimmie Allen and Andrea Bocelli—as a preamble to the switch-on of this year’s Norway spruce lights. Come see it for yourself, but wrap up warm: The lights don’t go on for the first time until just before 10 p.m.

• Book now: Thompson Central Park

A prime perch for both leaves and parade-chasing, the 587-room hotel—previously the Parker—reopened two years ago under this Hyatt flag after a major renovation. The new Upper Stories rooms, on the higher floors, offer better views, club-like access to a lounge, and upgraded amenities.

How to get to New York City

There are endless options to reach New York’s three airports, but given a choice, try to land at the new LaGuardia: Its $8 billion makeover has turned one of the country’s least appealing airports into an absolute pleasure to transit.

Remember to pack an umbrella if you’re coming to Madrid in November, as it’s rainier in November than the rest of the year.

Photo by Sven Hansche/Shutterstock

7. Madrid, Spain

November is great for: riffing and scatting with a Spanish twist

The Madrid Jazz Festival takes place November 7–26 across various venues, but with many of its concerts held at the Conde Duque Cultural Centre, CentroCentro, and the Fernán Gómez Theatre. Expect a deliberately eclectic program, taking the broadest definition of jazz and spotlighting both homegrown and international performers like Chilean-born New York–based Melissa Aldana, one of last year’s big draws. There were experimentalists like Matana Roberts and cellist Erik Friedlander, as well as Afro-jazz advocates like Carlos Sarduy, plus a tribute to David Bowie, whose talent was trumpeted by brass player Paolo Fresu.

This year’s lineup hasn’t yet been announced but expect more of the same. The program also includes jazz-adjacent activities, whether film screenings or roundtables; there’s also a custom program aimed at inspiring kids to embrace jazz. All that, plus Madrid has entered low season, cutting prices on flights and hotels.

• Book now: Rosewood Villa Magna

Rosewood recently took over the grande dame hotel in Salamanca, the uptown shopping nabe, but it didn’t destroy the local-heavy vibe in the lobby. The afternoons here are a fine chance to sip a G&T with the city’s chic set.

How to get to Madrid

Spain’s national flag carrier Iberia is a close partner of American Airlines via the oneworld Alliance, which makes it particularly easy to reach nonstop from AA’s stateside hubs, including CLT, DFW, and PHL.

Though New Zealand only accounts for 1 percent of global wine production, it was the sixth largest wine exporter by value last year.

Photo by byvalet/Shutterstock

8. North Island, New Zealand

November is great for: sampling some of the world’s best, lesser-known wines

Raise a glass to the 30th anniversary of Toast Martinborough this year. (Call it Toast, as the regulars do.) The food and wine festival is celebrating three decades of touting the wines (and food pairings) of one of New Zealand’s lesser-known prestige regions, on the southern tip of the country’s North Island.

The region here, Wairapa, has soil that’s rich and limestoney, while the rainfall is among the sparsest anywhere in the country. This results in wines redolent of Burgundy, mostly pinot noir and chardonnay; the vineyards in the area are listed on the 236-mile Classic New Zealand Wine Trail . Palliser was one of the pioneers, and it’s also a prime venue for Toast, as is Tirohana Estate, another early winemaker; there are six other sites dotted around, including Parehua Resort. At each, expect food and drink to try, as well as live music from DJs and bands. (Don’t worry, there are shuttle buses between those sites.) GA tickets are $95 .

Elsewhere in Martinborough over the same weekend, the Beyond Toast program includes special menus at local restaurants, wine walks through the vineyards, and a chance to try the upstart craft beers at Karahui Tap Room.

• Book now: Parehua Resort

Why not stay where you can walk to your bed after a day of (responsible) drinking? The five-star property sits right among the wineries—rent a cottage for maximum privacy.

How to get to Wellington

Head to Auckland on national flag carrier Air New Zealand direct from JFK, LAX, and SFO; there’s West Coast connectivity also on United, Delta, and American. Connect down to Wellington on a regular service from there.

More than two thirds of Greenland’s landmass lies within the Arctic Circle.

Photo by posteriori/Shutterstock

9. Greenland

November is great for: borealis-chasing in the tundra

Greenland is one of the world’s best places to see the Northern Lights, and the elusive show begins this month each year. It’s not just the island’s location that makes it an ideal borealis-chasing base, but also the fact that it has minimal light pollution, meaning superb visibility. That’s in part down to the limited human impact on the land here: Although it’s the world’s largest island, with a landmass triple the size of Texas, just under 60,000 people call it home full-time. (They refer to the aurora borealis as arsarnerit , or “the ones who play with a ball,” a nod to the myths around the mysterious phenomenon.)

There are various places you can pick to try chasing these mesmerizing displays. Head to Ilulissat to hopefully spot them on the aptly named Disko Bay. The flashing lights will glimmer and swoop over the icebergs and fjords here. The former U.S. military base in Kangerlussuaq, where the sky is clear for all but a handful of days each year, is another option—you’ll likely land there anyway, as its runway is the longest in the country and best handles jets in all weathers. The microclimate here keeps clouds and storms at bay. Kulusuk is a tiny village and a chance to truly lose yourself amid the staggering countryside—take a dog sledding tour to go borealis hunting.

Where to stay: Hotel Arctic

• Book now: Hotel Arctic

One of the world’s most northerly hotels, it’s right on the UNESCO-endorsed Ilulissat Icefjord. Stay in one of the Scandi-modern rooms in the latest addition, the Umiaq wing (the Greenlandic word for a woman’s boat) for the best views.

How to get to Greenland

There are no direct flights from the United States to Greenland. The canniest, quickest option is flying to Iceland on Icelandair, which services multiple hubs stateside, and then fly back to Greenland from there—it has regular service from Reykjavík.

The crowds in Belize will be thinner than peak sun-seeking window in January and February, but the weather should be comparable—at least once the rains ease early this month.

Photo by Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

November is great for: unearthing deeper histories and new views of the Caribbean

If you make it to Belize in November, you can also experience Garifuna Settlement Day on November 19, a chance to look past the tropical-perfect scenery and laid-back vibe to the complex history of this former British colony. The Garifuna are a community that descends from escaped enslaved Africans and people Indigenous to the islands in the Caribbean , then known as Caribs; they were driven out of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, then a British holding, to Central America after losing a rebellion against the Empire. Their community coalesced in several hubs of the region, notably Belize.

Their arrival has been celebrated as a public holiday here since 1977, and the best place to immerse yourself in the experience is Dangriga on the mouth of the North Stann Creek River on the southern reaches of the country. There are week-long festivities—think torchlit parades, a Miss Garifuna contest, and a wreath-laying ceremony at the grave of Garifuna civil rights activist T. V. Ramos. There’s even a cycle race, which draws riders from around the country, named in his honor.

• Book now: Gladden Private Island

Indulge your inner Robinson Crusoe at this two-person hotel, which sits on its own private island just off Belize’s southern coast. The unique experience is the brainchild of Chris Krolow, former host of HGTV’s Island Hunters.

How to get to Belize

There’s seasonal nonstop service to Belize City from Seattle on Alaska Airlines and JFK on JetBlue. American runs a year-round service from Dallas and Miami.

20 Best Places to Visit in November in the USA & Abroad

Many of us envision hectic Thanksgiving travel in November and don’t even consider taking a trip. But the best places to visit in November in the USA and Europe still have fall foliage and festivals.

If you’re looking for where to go in November for warm weather , choose from one of the island destinations below or head to the Southern Hemisphere for beautiful Spring travel.

There are some killer bucket list destinations that are truly the best places to travel in November. For more Fall travel inspiration, also check out the Best Places to Travel in October .

This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy something through one of these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read our full disclosure  here .

Best Places to Visit in November in the USA

Joshua Tree, California in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 69F (20C) / Low 43F (6C); 1 rainy day

Joshua Tree is the 11th most visited US National Park. The temperature is where to go in November for hiking, rock climbing, and the most spectacular star gazing.

The cooler temperatures are perfect for hiking the park’s numerous trails. Don’t miss the iconic hikes to Barker Dam, Hidden Valley, or the challenging Ryan Mountain for breathtaking vistas.

Get off the beaten path and wander through interesting cactus like the Cholla Cactus Garden, beautiful lakes and unique landscapes.

The park is a mecca for rock climbers, with cooler weather making it safer and more enjoyable for climbers of all levels.

Expand your experience by glamping in a boho styled airstream or relaxing by the pool in your remote, stylish vacation home rental.

Joshua Tree is renowned for its dark skies and star gazing. Bring your telescope or join a ranger-led astronomy program for an unforgettable celestial experience.

Over the course of a weekend, you will have an experience that is so relaxing and different than the rest of California.

HOTEL : AutoCamp Joshua Tree (9)

RELATED POST : How to Plan the Perfect Joshua Tree Weekend

Palm Springs, California in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 79F (26C) / Low 52F (11C); 0 rainy days

Another California favorite, Palm Springs adds a completely different spin to your desert getaway with bright midcentury decor and tons of things to do. November is still warm enough to enjoy California weather by the pool.

If you’re a golf fanatic, Palm Springs is a golfer’s paradise with many world-class golf courses. Have fun playing a round or two in some of the best desert landscapes.

Relax and rejuvenate at one of the city’s renowned spas or wellness resorts. Soak in natural hot springs or indulge in a therapeutic massage.

For a fun half-day trip, take the 10 minute trip to the top of the San Jacinto mountains on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway where you will find expansive Coachella Valley views along with tons of hiking trails.

One of the most popular tours is a San Andreas Fault Jeep Tour to see the geology of California earthquakes.

You can also take an architecture tour, stroll down Palm Canyon Drive for galleries and shopping, and indulge in one delicious restaurant after the next.

HOTEL : The Paloma Resort (9.3) or one of the Best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

RELATED POST : 12 Best Places to Visit in California in December

Sonoma Valley, California in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 66F (19C) / Low 41F (5C); 6 rainy days

One of the best times of year to visit Sonoma Valley is harvest time in the fall. While the dates of grape harvest changes every season, there are seasonal activities like special tastings, fall dining menus, and music festivals.

There are so many fun things to do in Healdsburg , one of the absolutely coolest places to visit in Sonoma County. While wine is a top priority in this part of California, it’s also a great places for active pursuits.

Book a stay in one of the best hotels in Healdsburg to be close to great restaurants and activities. Downtown Healdsburg has some of the most notable eateries in Northern California.

Take a Healdsburg Small-Group Food and Wine Walking Tour through town to try a variety of food pairing and meet some local chefs and wine makers.

Visit the wild and beautiful Sonoma coast, go horseback riding, hike beautiful trails through the redwoods and hang out in charming California coastal towns . You will fall in love with the low key version of California Wine country.

HOTEL : Montage Healdsburg (9.2)

READ NEXT: 15 Best Things to do in Healdsburg and Sonoma County

Sedona, Arizona in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 68F (20C) / Low 41F (5C); 2 rainy days

Sedona, Arizona is absolutely one of the best places to visit in November in the US. This picture perfect city is home to some of the best hiking in the country.

Sedona is known for its spiritual healing. Connect with your mind, body, and spirit at a Chakra Yoga class or experience the unique energy on one of the best Sedona vortex hikes .

Another can’t miss hike in Sedona is the Devil’s Bridge Trail , which is a moderate hike to a natural rock bridge, that offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations.

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Sedona has more than 250 miles of single track with breathtaking views and challenging terrain, for mountain bikers of all levels,

An Outback Jeep Adventure Tour is a more laid back way to explore the area’s beautiful landscapes and learn about its history.

And with sunny weather in the mid 60s, it’s the perfect place to escape the cold this Thanksgiving. L’Auberge de Sedona   even offers a special Thanksgiving dinner for those looking to enjoy a traditional holiday meal.

Be sure to sign up for the annual 5K Turkey Trot to work off those calories, take a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad , and go for a scenic drive through Sedona . If it’s not already, Sedona should absolutely be on your Arizona Bucket List .

HOTEL : Enchantment Resort  (8.8)

New York, New York in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 55F (12C) / Low 42F (5C); 7 rainy days

New York City is one of the best places to visit in November in the USA. Catch the exhilarating  New York City Marathon , typically held on the first Sunday in November. Join the cheering crowds as runners tackle the city’s five boroughs.

Autumn is a perfect time for a leisurely stroll or a horse-drawn carriage ride through  Central Park  to witness the breathtaking fall foliage. The park’s vibrant hues provide an Instagram-worthy backdrop for nature lovers.

As November progresses, embrace the chilly weather by lacing up your skates at Rockefeller Center or Central Park’s Wollman Rink . Get a birds-eye-view of the city at the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience .

On November 11th, you can pay your respects to those who have served in the U.S. military at the  Veterans Day Parade . Then celebrate the holiday season at the  Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade  with larger-than-life balloons making their way through Manhattan’s streets.

The Big Apple’s holiday markets at Bryant Park’s Winter Village and Union Square are great places to pick up unique gifts and sample artisanal foods.

Part of the allure of visiting New York City any time of year is to see a Broadway show and indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene.

We also love New York in September for the amazing fall buzz and December for all the traditional holiday activities like seeing the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular.

HOTEL: Nine Orchard (9.4) or the TWA Hotel for a retro travel experience

Charleston, South Carolina in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 67F (19C) / Low 53F (11C); 4 rainy days

Autumn is peak season in Charleston. The weather is temperate, it’s one of the lowest rain months and late fall foliage adds to the beauty.

While not as dramatic as northern destinations, Charleston’s trees begin to display vibrant autumn colors in November, making it a picturesque time for walks in parks like Hampton Park and Waterfront Park.

Johns Island County Park is another colorful spot during the Harvest Festival complete with Bluegrass bands and Carolina barbecue.

On a 3 day Charleston itinerary visit Magnolia Plantation for a step back in time and a great place to see fall color.

Charleston’s cobblestone streets and historic homes are easily explored on foot. Another fun way to see the city is a Historical Downtown Tour by Horse Drawn Carriage .

Get a jump on your holiday shopping at the long established Charleston City Market and dine at all of the delicious restaurants.

If weather permits, a nice way to end the day is on a Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise . See the city from a different vantage point on a romantic cruise of the South Carolina shoreline.

BEST HOTELS : The Pinch Charleston (9.7), or The Spectator Hotel (9.4)

RELATED POST : Most Beautiful States in the USA to Visit

Hawaii in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 83F (28C) / Low 79F (26C); rainy days vary in location

Hawaii is the best place to travel in November for warm weather. It’s warm and sunny, but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. It’s also a great place to do a big family reunion for Thanksgiving.

For nature lovers, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-see. The park is home to two active volcanoes, and you can hike through lava fields and see steam vents.

Sail the Nā Pali Coast and drive the Road to Hana to see lush rainforests, waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. Or hike Waimea Canyon , also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, Poipu beach on Kauai is a great choice. The water is calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding , and snorkeling.

But surfing reigns supreme in this island paradise whether you learn to surf at Honolulu’s Waikiki Beach or watch the big wave Pros, one of the best things to do on North Shore Oahu .

HOTEL :: ESPACIO THE JEWEL OF WAIKIKI (9.8)

RELATED POST: 60 Bucket List USA Trip Ideas for Any Time of Year

Where to Travel in November in Europe

Croatia in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 63F (17C) / Low 53F (11C); 10 rainy days

November is a great time to travel to Europe – the weather is mild, the crowds are gone and the prices are lower. And, of course, there’s the added bonus of seeing some stunning fall foliage.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great day trip from Zadar and one of the most beautiful places in the world at any time of year, but it’s especially stunning in November when the leaves are changing color, framing the cascading waterfalls.

Dubrovnik Old Town is one of the most well-preserved medieval towns in Europe and it’s simply stunning when surrounded by autumn leaves. Do a Game of Thrones tour and walk the historic city walls on your Dubrovnik itinerary .

Croatia island hopping is typically a summer activity, but getting out on the water for a day trip is a great way to explore islands like Hvar and Brac, while witnessing the spectacular beauty of the Dalmatian coast.

The Istrian Peninsula is another great option for fall travel and a must on a Balkans Itinerary . It’s known for its truffles and Malvasia wine, and you can also celebrate the Croatian holiday of St. Martin’s Day (called Martinje) on November 11th.

Experience the early festivities of Advent in Zagreb, with charming Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and seasonal decorations throughout the city.

Croatia is a delightful November destination in Europe filled with cultural experiences, natural beauty, and culinary treats, offering a quieter but equally enticing adventure.

HOTEL : Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik (9.4) or one of the Best Boutique Hotels in Dubrovnik .

Iceland in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 39F (4C) / Low 31F (0C); 12 rainy days

The Nordic country of Iceland is an ideal November destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls.

In November, the average temperature is 40°F, which makes it cold enough for ice caves to be safe but warm enough that you won’t be completely freezing.

There’s plenty to do on a 7 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary starting in the capital city of Reykjavik. Explore museums, cozy cafes, and vibrant street art. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in Icelandic cuisine like lamb stew or skyr.

Visit the famous Golden Circle attractions, including the Geysir geothermal area, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park, which are less crowded in November.

Soak in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon while surrounded by a winter wonderland. The contrast between the warm waters and chilly air is truly rejuvenating. from exploring the world-famous Blue Lagoon to sampling the local cuisine.

Don’t miss the Icelandic music scene at the Iceland Airwaves Festival at the beginning of the month.

And with its long days and short nights, Iceland is the perfect place to experience the Northern Lights. Plan your visit around a new moon for best views of the aurora and stay for 3-4 days to maximize your chance of seeing them.

HOTEL : The Reykjavik EDITION (8.8) or one of the Best Boutique Hotels in Reykjavik

Prague, Czech Republic in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 47F (8C) / Low 38F (3C); 6 rainy days

November in Prague offers a unique blend of cultural delights and festive experiences. Start your visit with a Walking Tour of Prague Old Town to soak in the city’s rich history and stunning architecture.

The crisp autumn air makes it the perfect time for exploring iconic landmarks like Prague Castle , Charles Bridge, and Old Town Square without the summer crowds.

Music enthusiasts will be thrilled to attend the Prague Sounds Festival , featuring world-class classical, jazz, hip hop and electronica performances.

For food and wine connoisseurs, St. Martin’s Wine and Food Festival is a must, showcasing Czech wines and delicious cuisine. Whisky aficionados can savor their passion at the Whisky Life Prague Festival , a delightful exploration of fine spirits.

As November progresses, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with the onset of Prague Christmas markets , where you can shop for unique gifts and savor traditional treats.

For seasonal favorites, don’t miss the Nutcracker and Swan Lake ballet performances at the Prague State Opera or Broadway Theater.

As one of the best places to travel in November, Prague promises a blend of culture, culinary delights, and entertainment, making it an enchanting time to visit this beautiful European gem.

HOTEL: The Grand Mark Prague (9.4)

Tallinn, Estonia in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 39F (4C) / Low 30F (-1C); 16 rainy days

Tallinn, the charming capital of Estonia, is one of the best places to travel in November in Europe.

The first place to wander around is Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, a picturesque labyrinth of cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.

Kadriorg Palace hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, providing a glimpse into Estonia’s artistic heritage. Don’t miss other historic sites like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral on Toompea Hill.

One of the best things to do is cozy up in one of Tallinn’s many charming cafes or do an Estonian Food Tour. Try warming drinks like glögi (mulled wine) and indulge in Estonian pastries, like kringel (cinnamon bread).

Or, embrace the Estonian tradition of saunas. Many local spas and wellness centers offer soothing sauna experiences to beat the November chill.

The highlight of the month is a visit to the fairytale Tallinn Christmas Market , ranked as one of the top in Europe, located in the Town Hall Square adorned with fairy lights and a towering Christmas tree.

It typically opens in late November offering Estonian holiday treats, handcrafted gifts from local artisans, and a pop-up ice rink for skating.

Whether you’re strolling through historic streets, savoring seasonal treats, or immersing yourself in the holiday spirit at the Christmas market, this Estonian gem provides a delightful European getaway during the fall-to-winter transition.

HOTEL: Nunne Boutique Hotel (9.8)

Canary Islands, Spain in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 75F (24C) / Low 64F (18C); 4 rainy days

With average highs of 75F, the Canary Islands are a great place to escape the chilly weather of Northern Europe.

November is actually one of the best months to visit, as it’s still warm enough for sunbathing and watersports, but not too hot.

It’s the best month for surfing or sand boarding the dunes in Gran Canaria. Check into an all-inclusive Gran Canaria Hotel and just focus on having a blast.

The Fuerteventura Kite Festival is also held in November, making it the perfect time to visit if you’re looking for some fun in the sun. Golfers will also find plenty to keep them busy, as there are several world-class golf courses on the islands.

And if you’re looking for some adventurous hiking or a thrilling cable car ride, Teide National Park on Tenerife is well worth a visit. While visiting also check out the Rambla de Castro coastal walk in Puerto de la Cruz .

So whether you’re looking to escape the cold or just enjoy some sunny weather, the Canary Islands are definitely worth considering. It’s one of the best weekend breaks in Spain.

HOTEL : Royal Hideaway Corales Suites (9.4)

Best Places to Travel in November Abroad

Bora Bora, Tahiti in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 81F (27C) / Low 71F (21C); 9 rainy days

Of all the places to go in November, the stunning paradise of Bora Bora may be the most romantic. Bora Bora is renowned for its  luxurious overwater bungalows , and November offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather and lower rates. 

Awake to crystal-clear waters beneath your villa, and relish the ultimate tropical escape. Spend your days relaxing or taking advantage of numerous fun activities like paddleboarding, kiteboarding, or jet-skiing in the calm, warm waters. 

Explore the vibrant underwater world of coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and even the occasional manta ray. 

Or embark on an unforgettable adventure by snorkeling with sharks in the Bora Bora Lagoon . Experienced guides ensure safety while you get up close and personal with these majestic creatures.

On land, visit the famous Matira Beach , known for its soft white sands and serene turquoise waters, or discover Bora Bora’s lush landscapes by taking a 4×4 safari tour or hiking to the island’s viewpoints.

In the evening, bask in beachfront dinners at local restaurants or private dining experiences under the stars.

Bora Bora in November is a tranquil haven where you can bask in the beauty of nature without the peak-season crowds. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, fun, or romance, this tropical paradise has something to offer every traveler.

HOTEL : Conrad Bora Bora Nui (9.3)

Bahamas in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 81F (27C) / Low 74F (23C); 6 rainy days

November is the Bahamas sweet spot and one of the best places to travel in November. It’s after hurricane season and before the holiday rush.

The weather is warm and the water is calm, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply find your zen on the beach.

With over 700 islands and cays, the Bahamas are a paradise for island hopping. Explore the unique cultures and landscapes of different islands, from bustling Nassau to the tranquil Out Islands.

The Bahamas are renowned for their stunning beaches. Relax on the powdery white sands of Cable Beach, Pink Sand Beach in Harbour Island, or the pristine beaches of the Exumas.

There are plenty of epic things to do in Exuma . You can go swimming with pigs or sharks, snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, relax on a perfect white sand beach or kick back and grab a drink with locals.

Savor delicious Bahamian dishes like conch fritters, cracked conch, and Bahamian stewfish at local eateries and beachside shacks.

The crystal-clear waters are also perfect for exploring vibrant coral reefs and underwater caves. There are great dive sites in the Bahamas and Caribbean including Andros Island’s Blue Holes and the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park.

You can’t pick a better place to go in November if you want a beachy vacation.

HOTEL : Grand Isle Resort & Spa

Egypt in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 77F (25C) / Low 59F (15C); 3 rainy days

Step back in time to the land of Pharaohs and pyramids like you’ve read in books about Egypt . Visiting Egypt is a trip of a lifetime and it is absolutely one of the best places to travel in November.

The weather is cool and dry, making it the perfect time to explore the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings .

Take a Nile cruise nile cruise on the Oberoi , the ultimate in luxury, to Aswan and visit the colorful Nubian villages.

Resort areas like Sharm El Sheikh or Hurghada have world-class diving and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea. November offers excellent visibility and warm water temperatures.

If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the stunning desert landscapes of Egypt with a safari to the White Desert, Black Desert, or the Sinai Peninsula, where you can hike, camp, or take a camel trek.

No matter what you do on your Egypt itinerary , you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience when you visit Egypt in November.

HOTEL :: The St Regis Cairo (8.9)

RELATED POST : What to Wear in Egypt & 15 Egypt Travel Tips You Need to Know

Oman in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 86F (30C) / Low 69F (21C); 0 rainy days

If you are wondering where to go in November to explore the diverse and captivating landscapes, look no further than Oman. 

Start your journey in the capital city, Muscat, where you can visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque , the Royal Opera House, and the bustling Mutrah Souq.

Discover Oman’s rich heritage by visiting historical forts like Nizwa and Bahla. Or take a day trip to the famous Bimmah Sinkhole or Wadi Shab gorge, where you can swim in crystal clear turquoise water.

With pleasant weather, there are a variety of other active pursuits available. Head to the Wahiba Sands or the Empty Quarter for thrilling dune bashing, camel rides, and stargazing in the tranquil desert.

November’s mild temperatures make it an excellent time to hike in the stunning Al Hajar Mountains, specifically the Jebel Akhdar region, known for its terraced farms and picturesque villages.

If you don’t mind the heat, explore the lush Dhofar region during the Khareef season, from June through  September , bringing cooler temperatures and transforming the desert into a green oasis. 

Either time of year, relax on Oman’s pristine beaches, such as Salalah’s coastline in the south, and enjoy water sports or unwind by the sea.

Oman offers a perfect blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty, that makes it a great new destination to add to your list.

HOTEL: Six Senses Zighy Bay (9.2)

New Zealand in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 63F (17C) / Low 55F (13C); 6-10 rainy days

While New Zealand is an incredible destination year round, Spring and specifically November is the absolute best time to visit.

November is the peak of New Zealand’s spring, and you can witness breathtaking displays of blossoms. Don’t miss the iconic Taranaki Rhododendron & Garden Festival or the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust.

There are so many things to do that Campervanning New Zealand is the ideal way to explore. Visit the Kaikoura Peninsula for whale watching or the Otago Peninsula for a chance to see rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Another fun thing to do is explore New Zealand’s wine regions, like Marlborough and Central Otago, and savor their renowned wines.

From the small town of Paihia at the top of the North Island to Stewart Island off the Southernmost tip, there is adventure and beauty everywhere.

Don’t miss Milford Sound, Mount Cook , Glacier County, Rotorua, Queenstown, Auckland and of course the beaches and cute towns.

HOTEL : Azur Lodge (9.8)

RELATED POST : The Best Places to Travel in December

Sydney, Australia in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 74F (23C) / Low 60F (16C); 3 rainy days

November is an ideal time to explore Sydney, Australia, as the city embraces the spring season with pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Surf’s up at  Bondi Beach . With its turquoise waters and white sand, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular beaches in Australia and one of the best places to go in November for perfect weather.

Take the breathtaking  Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk , which offers stunning views, rock pools, and plenty of photo opportunities.

If you’re in the mood for some culture, visit the  Art Gallery of New South Wales,  with over 10,000 works of art on display or catch a world-class performance at the  Sydney Opera House , a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Embark on a  Day Trip to the Blue Mountains  for a guided experience at Scenic World, an opportunity to see the famous Three sisters rock formation, encounter native Australian animals, eat a delectable lunch, and a ferry ride back to Sydney Harbor. 

When spending  3 days in Sydney  in November, you can even catch the beginning of a summer Christmas season Down Under. 

HOTEL : Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour (8.8)

Chiang Mai, Thailand in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 86F (30C) / Low 65F (18C); 4 rainy days

Yi Peng , the biggest Lantern Festival in the world and one of the events Thailand is famous for , will be celebrated at the beginning of November in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Thousands of lanterns light up the night sky, and people release beautiful flower-filled rafts onto the Ping River.

Chiang Mai is known for its stunning temples. Visit Wat Phra Singh, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and Wat Chedi Luang to admire their intricate architecture and serene ambiance.

On your trip to Chiang Mai, make sure to see Tha Phae Gate built in the 13th century. It’s one of the most visited Thailand landmarks in Chiang Mai and they have live music on Saturday nights.

Venture into the lush mountains surrounding Chiang Mai for trekking adventures. Explore hill tribe villages, enjoy jungle hikes, and witness breathtaking waterfalls. You can also go zip-lining or do a Ping River Night Kayaking Trip .

Sample delicious northern Thai cuisine at local markets and restaurants. Don’t miss khao soi, a famous regional dish. Foodies can learn how to make delectable dishes at a Thai cooking class too.

Chiang Mai is just one wonderful location on a Thailand itinerary .

HOTEL : Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai (9.3)

RELATED POST : 2 Perfect Days in Phuket, Thailand

Buenos Aires, Argentina in November

Average temperatures and rain: High 76F (24C) / Low 62F (17C); 8 rainy days

Buenos Aires is all about experiencing the joys in life. Enjoy the cafe culture and take in the beautiful architecture.

Spend some time at Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires . It’s a must-see for any art lover, and the Cantera Eva Peron is a great place to learn about Argentine history.

Enjoy the pleasant spring weather by strolling through Buenos Aires’ beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Bosques de Palermo and the Jardín Botánico.

For something truly unique, head to La Boca , where you can see brightly-colored houses and street art.

Festivities include Dia de los Muertos at the beginning of the month and Feria de Mataderos , the traditional gaucho fair showcasing Argentine culture, with folk music, dance, crafts, and delicious street food, every Sunday.

As the birthplace of tango, immersing yourself in this passionate dance form by taking classes or watching a mesmerizing performance at La Ventana .

Savor Argentina’s world-famous beef in local steakhouses known as parrillas. November is also a great time to enjoy traditional Argentine barbecue at outdoor asados.

There are also great things to do with kids in Mar del Plata, the coastal area with beaches, for sunning, surfing, paddle boarding and kite surfing.

HOTEL :: Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires (9.2)

Other Posts You Might Like:

• TRAVEL: 7 Incredible USA Glamping Destinations
• CALIFORNIA: 2 Days in Yosemite Itinerar y
• CALIFORNIA: 13 Prettiest Southern California Beaches
• PHOTOGRAPHY: The Best iPhone Photo Accessories

Save The Best Places to Travel in November – Pin it!

About Jenifer

You might also like....

17 Best Things to Do in Malaga, Spain

15 Best Places to Visit in April: USA Spring Break Destinations

20 Awesome Adventure Bucket List Ideas

21 comments, snk creation.

Thank you for the introduction of a range of information that is very interesting to see in this article. I like your content.

Merel van Poorten

This is such a great list! Many of the places are deinitely on my bucketlist!

So glad you enjoyed it!

I’m Just dying to go to the Bahamas xx I am loving the vibe of this post 🙂 Looking forward to reading more of your posts.

– Marina W

Thank you so much!

Allie Mackin

Oh these do sound good! But for a 4 day weekend I will most likely hoping down to Florida. Though this year I will be staying put.

Allie of http://www.allienyc.com

Florida would be really nice for a long weekend in November.

These are all incredibel places. I hope I will visit them one day.

https://www.ninakobi.com/2019/11/luxury-concealers-you-should-check-out.html

There are so many amazing places to visit in this world.

The lantern fesitval in Chiang Mai looks so beautiful and romantic. This definitely goes onto my list! And look at that white sandy beach at the Bahamas, gosh I need a beach vacay again urgently lol.

I completely agree. I’ve wanted to go to the lantern festival forever. Next year for sure!

This is such a great roundup dear. Iceland is just breathtaking.

Thank you. Iceland is one of those places to visit at different seasons for a completely different, equally amazing trips.

Michelle Tucker

These are all such great ideas. Too bad the kids are in school in November!!

I know, right!

I’d love to go to Iceland and bring my dog, who’s an Icelandic Sheepdog, lol.

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

How funny! They have the best sheep and horses in Iceland. Your dog would have friends 😉

Kelli Nordhus

Seriously! Your descriptions and your photos are just outstanding! Thank you so much for sharing!!

Thanks so much Kelli!

wow! All thee places are beautiful, would love to visit them all.

While I was making the list, I was ready to hop on a plane 😂

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Copyright 2024 - The Evolista | All Rights Reserved | Disclosure

The 15 Best Places to Visit in the US in November

You’re going to be spoiled for choice if you’re planning a US vacation in November. Whether you love soaking up the last of the summer sun or marveling at the fall foliage – from California to Washington, DC , we’ve got you covered with the best places to visit in the US in November.

Sun seekers on the West Coast should head to Monterey or Santa Monica . There are warm climes all year round in Florida , while Texas , Arizona , and Nevada all offer great weather and even better sightseeing. Travel further north, and you’ll find that much of the US is resplendent in autumnal colors. Visit the Blue Ridge Mountains in Asheville, North Carolina , for spectacular leaf-peeping opportunities as the trees shed their leaves, or visit Plymouth, Massachusetts , for autumnal colors and one of the most unique Thanksgiving parades in the US.

With so many places to visit and see, you might not know where to begin. That’s why I’ve compiled our list of the best places to travel in the USA in November for you. Stick to these November travel recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’re going to have an incredible time exploring this gorgeous country!

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

Do you need to escape the coming winter chills? Then why not book a flight to the Pacific, where you’ll find warm climes all year round in Hawaii ? 

November is always an interesting time to visit Hawaii. You’ve arrived well before the Christmas crowds and can still take advantage of low-season prices and deals on flights and hotels. November is the rainy season, but if you can endure a few showers here and there, then you’ve also avoided the extreme summer temperatures. Instead, you’ll enjoy average temperatures of around 77°F and a magnificent 12 hours of sunshine.

There’s a lot going on in November, and if you’re in Hawaii at the start of the month, you can enjoy the culinary delights of the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival , which is the Big Island ’s longest-running food fest. In Oahu , the northern coast is one of the best places to visit in the US in November if you love surfing because the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (an international competition) is in town.

You can spend your vacation on the beach and enjoy snorkeling, diving, surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and any other water-based activities you love. Then there are hiking trails, volcanoes, national parks, and so much more awaiting you across Hawaii’s verdant islands in November! 

2. Napa Valley, California

For wine connoisseurs, one of the best US destinations in November is California’s Napa Valley . It’s Cab Sav season in Napa Valley, and that means there’s an abundance of opportunities to try this delectable wine straight from the source!

Obviously, the best thing to do in Napa Valley in November is a wine tour (it’s the best thing to do any month!), and you can put together your own personalized tour or join a group tour. If you’re planning on trying a few wines at the wineries, we’d probably recommend the group tour option, just so you don’t have to drive.

One of our favorite wineries is Beringer , where you’ll find a grand 19th-century estate in one of the region’s oldest vineyards. They serve up a delectable chocolate Cab Cav sauce that’s the perfect decadent condiment. Other great choices include Domaine Carneros , Pine Ridge Vineyards , and Louis M. Martini Winery . 

Napa Valley is beautiful in November. It’s fall, so temperatures hover around a cool but not chill 65°F during the day, while all around, the trees are turning golden-brown as they begin to shed their leaves. 

We suggest staying for a few days, reserving a room in one of the best Napa hotels , touring the wineries, tasting a few Cabernet Sauvignons, enjoying autumnal walks, and perhaps rising high above the valley on a hot air balloon ride!

3. Plymouth, Massachusetts

If you were wondering where to go in November for Thanksgiving celebrations , then look no further than Plymouth, Massachusetts. This historic coastal town played a prominent role in the US’s early colonial history, as, of course, this is where the Pilgrims arrived on the Mayflower and founded New England.

You can see all the historic sites during your trip, including the famous Plymouth Rock, the Mayflower Society House , and Plimoth Patuxet Museums , a unique living history museum that immerses you in the Pilgrims’ story. 

More importantly, Plymouth also hosts the America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade , one of the best Thanksgiving parades in the US. It might not be as big as the Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Parade, but nowhere beats Plymouth’s parade in terms of history and tradition. The town was the site of the first Thanksgiving in 1621, and for four centuries, Plymouth has played a huge role in developing and preserving the celebration. 

For a whole weekend in November (usually the weekend before Thanksgiving), Plymouth is overtaken by Thanksgiving celebrations, feasts, and festivals, as the town embraces its past and welcomes visitors from across the world. Dress up warm, though, because it can get chilly at night.

4. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas is a city that needs very little introduction, and without a doubt, it’s one of the best US vacation destinations in November. Whether you see it as the “Entertainment Capital of the World” or “Sin City,” it’s impossible not to have a fantastic time in Vegas.

If you’re visiting for the casinos, gambling, and entertainment shows, then November is as great a time as any to explore Las Vegas. You won’t even know what time of day it is inside the casinos (let alone the month!), and the events schedule is always packed throughout the month.

But November is also a great time to explore further afield. Compared to the northern states, it’s warm in Las Vegas, with November temperatures still reaching well into the low 70s during the day. 

With relatively cooler temperatures (for Nevada , we mean), we recommend traveling outside the city to outdoor destinations like the Red Rock Canyon, where you’ll find an otherworldly landscape more reminiscent of Mars than Earth. 

Lake Mead lies just to the east of the city, the Valley of Fire State Park is just north of this, while over the state border to the west is Death Valley, one of California’s greatest national parks. 

One of the best states to visit in November is Utah , where you can explore five of the best national parks to be found anywhere in the US! 

Temperatures are starting to drop rapidly in November as Utah readies itself for the coming winter. You will need to wrap up warm (especially at night), with daily averages of around the mid-40s. 

However, there are only a few days of rain in November, the days are still long, and we think the cooler temperatures beat the scorching heat of summer. Best of all, you’ll miss the peak season crowds in the national parks.

Head to Moab, and you’ll have a great base for outdoor activities. From Moab, you can venture into Arches National Park , where you’ll find gorgeous red rocks and magnificent monoliths. Next, head into Canyonlands National Park, where the Colorado River has carved mighty gorges through the rocks.

Continue southeast, and you’ll meet Capitol Reef National Park, which is home to monoliths and sandstone domes, while in Bryce Canyon National Park , you’ll be mesmerized by the unusual geology and “hoodoo” rock formations. Finally, there’s no better place to end your Utah road trip than Zion National Park , where you’ll find a uniquely verdant landscape that’s perfect for November hikes. 

Just be sure to stop at the visitor center of each park to check road conditions!

6. Page, Arizona

If you’d love to escape the crowds at some of the best natural attractions in the US, then we suggest taking a trip to Page, Arizona . This small town is close to the state border with Utah and has a population of just 7,000 people, but it’s big on big natural attractions!

From Page, you can visit the epic Grand Canyon National Park , which is one of the best US destinations in November. The East Rim is just a 40-minute drive away from Page, while the South Rim is a little less than three hours, making the town an excellent jumping-off point to see one of the biggest canyons in the world. It’s a bucket list attraction, and while the Grand Canyon is busy all year round, the crowds lessen in the colder November months.

But Page is also close to a number of other impressive natural attractions. Not far from the town, you can visit the equally scenic Horseshoe Bend, which has gained enduring popularity thanks to social media. Again, Horseshoe Bend is much quieter in November, meaning you might just get that photo without the crowds!

Best of all is Antelope Canyon, a seriously scenic spot that’s home to sandstone canyons, caverns, and caves. It’s another beautifully photogenic spot, but it also holds great significance to the Navajo. For this reason, make sure to book your Navajo-guided tour of Antelope Canyon before you arrive!

7. Santa Monica, California

One of the best places in the US to visit in November is Santa Monica, California , where you’ll escape the summer crowds while enjoying temperatures that regularly reach the high-60s. 

This is the last chance to enjoy the highs, and with an average of 280 sunny days a year, you can expect (almost) all of November to remain sunny. Enjoy the beach life while it lasts. Enjoy the ocean views from Santa Monica State Beach, take a stroll along the world-famous pier, or catch a few breaks in the surf.

But there’s always more to do in Santa Monica, and foodies will love the regular farmer’s market that moves across the city throughout the week. With Santa Monica as your base, you can day take a trip to Los Angeles, visit the Hollywood Sign, and visit Southern California’s iconic theme parks. 

For outdoor lovers, November is also the perfect time to explore the trails and peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains, which rise spectacularly along the coast to the north of the city. 

8. Washington, DC

Washington, DC, is one of the best US cities to visit in November. Temperatures in the capital are wonderfully mild, with highs reaching no more than 60°F throughout the month. 

The mild weather is perfect for sightseeing days in the capital, and you’ll escape the large crowds that descend upon Washington, DC, in the summer months. There are tons of things to do in Washington, DC , so be prepared for an action-packed November getaway.

The Smithsonian Museums are a great place to include on your November itinerary, as are classic sights such as the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall, and Capitol Hill. We recommend taking a walking tour to discover the history behind all the best sights.

As it’s November, you can also time your visit to coincide with some of Washington’s major annual events. The city hosts the Parade of Heroes, a moving Veteran’s Day event where you can pay your respects to the fallen. Later in the month, it’s Thanksgiving, and there are always events scheduled across the city for this national holiday. 

9. Monterey, California

The California coastline is dotted with charming coastal destinations, but one of our all-time favorites has long been Monterey. This historic city is located 2 hours south of San Francisco, and there’s much to see while you’re enjoying the last of the season’s sunshine in November.

In fact, we’d say that Monterey has more history than most Californian cities. Despite its small size and population, this was the original capital of Alta California when the region was part of Mexico in the early 19th century. 

You can still visit the Royal Presidio Chapel, which was built by Spanish settlers in the 1790s, and the customs house above which the flag of the United States was first raised in 1846. This unique history has given Monterey the nickname “California’s First City.”

Monterey is also known for its other cultural attractions, including the colorful Fisherman’s Wharf, where you’ll find a buzzing selection of restaurants and attractions in what was once the old fish market. You can visit Cannery Row (named after John Steinbeck’s novel, which was set in Monterey), where you’ll find a former sardine canning district has been transformed into a tourist hub. 

And along the coast, you might be lucky enough to spot migratory whales as they head south to spend the winter in the warmer waters of Baja California.

10. Asheville, North Carolina

November is a wonderful time for fall lovers to chase autumn colors. One of the best places to embrace those autumn vibes is Asheville , an up-and-coming destination located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina . 

Autumn leaf peepers will love the November colors, as leaves turn from verdant green to bright shades of gold, red, brown, and yellow before falling in the winter. The surrounding mountains are perfect for outdoor pursuits, with the mild weather creating fantastic conditions for hiking and mountain biking.

The Blue Ridge Mountains rise up thousands of feet, and you can drive to spectacular viewpoints for an overview of the autumn foliage by following the Blue Ridge Parkway route, which passes through Asheville. If you’re up for a challenge, there are beautiful hiking routes through the Cataloochee Valley, including stops at waterfalls and viewpoints where you’ll find seriously colorful scenes.

11. Everglades National Park, Florida

It’s the dry season in Florida , which means nature lovers will want to plan an outdoor adventure in the Everglades National Park. This spectacular area of wetlands is located at the southern tip of Florida, and with 1.5 million acres of protected land to explore, it’s the largest subtropical wilderness in the USA. 

We won’t lie, it’s still going to be warm even in November (particularly if you’re used to the colder climes of the north), and temperatures generally sit somewhere between 70 and 85 degrees. It’s much milder than the summer months, though, and we suggest taking the opportunity to explore this vast wetland on foot, by bike, by kayak, or by canoe. 

Cyclists will want to head to Shark Valley or the Snake Bight Trail, while walkers will enjoy the short but informative interpretative Pine Island and Flamingo Trails. As almost all of the national park is a wetland habitat, getting around by boat is the most exciting option. 

The 99-mile-long Wilderness Waterway is an epic canoeing and kayaking experience, while you can also opt for a more relaxed boat or airboat tour through the Everglades. Watch out for manatees, alligators, and the rare Everglades panther! 

12. Sarasota, Florida

You’ll find Sarasota halfway between Tampa and Fort Myers on Florida’s western seaboard. This beautiful coastal city is the perfect place for a beach escape, and it’s easily one of the best warm US destinations in November.

Sarasota is well known for its white sand beaches, but the city still doesn’t see anywhere near as many tourists as other Floridian winter sun destinations like Miami or Fort Lauderdale. The beaches here are absolutely stunning, though, and the best are located within the city limits themselves.

Head down to the coast after checking into one of the best luxury hotels in Sarasota (how about the Ritz-Carlton?), and you’ll find a long chain of barrier islands just across Sarasota Bay. These barrier islands are connected to the mainland by a causeway, and it’s where you’ll spend your vacation soaking up the sun, snorkeling, and enjoying the pristine white sands of Sarasota.

13. Savannah, Georgia

Established in 1733, Savannah is Georgia ’s oldest city. This charming coastal destination is packed full of history, and in November, you have the added bonus of glorious fall foliage and colors to enjoy. 

This historic city has wonderfully warm but mild temperatures in November. A high of 70°F is perfect for sightseeing, while you’ll appreciate the relative peace of the city without its summer crowds. 

Join a walking tour of the magnificent Victorian District, where you’ll find beautiful Victorian-era homes in beautiful surroundings. The wider Historic District is home to classic Antebellum and Colonial-era architecture, while Forsyth Park is a wonderful destination for an autumnal stroll. 

Learn more about the city’s long history at Fort Pulaski or Old Fort Jackson (Savannah was once the state capital before Atlanta took over!), take a relaxed ferry ride along the Savannah River that borders South Carolina , and explore the culinary and cultural delights of Savannah City Market , which has been trading since the early 18th century. 

14. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas, is one of the best vacation spots in the US in November. Milder fall weather makes this a great time of the year for sightseeing, and believe us when we say that as the seventh-largest city in the country, there are tons of cool things to do in San Antonio !

The city connects with its Mexican heritage at the start of the month through Day of the Dead celebrations, while at the end of the month, you can join the many Thanksgiving celebrations and parades held across San Antonio.

You can’t miss a visit to the Alamo , which is easily one of the most historic sites in Texas, while the Natural Bridge Caverns are a beautiful subterranean sight just outside of the city. Visit the San Fernando Cathedral, stroll along the San Antonio River Walk, and head to the top of the Tower of the Americas for epic views over the city.

15. Ozark-St. Francis National Forest

The vast woodland wilderness of Ozark-St. Francis National Forest is one of the best places to embrace the fall colors anywhere in the US. With temperatures averaging around 60°F in November, it’s a great time for hiking and camping in the great outdoors of Arkansas !

This extensive area of forest is home to some 1.2 million acres of woodland, and there are miles of hiking trails that weave their way through this protected habitat. There are short and long hiking trails for you to tackle, including the Chubb Hollow Trail, the Cave Spring Trail, and the Spring Valley Trail.

The hiking trails (many of which are also suitable for mountain bikes and horseback riding) are split between the Upper Current River Trails and the Lower Current River Trails. These two distinct areas are both glorious, and in the fall, you’ll be surrounded by multicolored beauty wherever your hiking boots might take you!

There you have it! The 15 best places to visit in the US in November. What’s your favorite place to visit in the fall? 

Share this on pinterest.

About the Author:

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

View all posts

Related Posts

12 Cool Boutique Hotels In Las Vegas, Nevada

12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Charlotte, North Carolina

10 Cool Boutique Hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Google reveals top destinations for summer vacation 2024

For anyone feeling a sudden urge for summer wanderlust, Google unveiled its top 20 destinations that travelers have already taken an interest in for any upcoming warm weather getaways.

From domestic to international locations, Google shared insights based on past flight booking data and search trends with "Good Morning America" to help people start planning summer vacation spots or shape an ideal itinerary.

Much like snubs and surprises during awards season, there are a couple of places that fell out of favor since last year as well as some new additions that made this year's list.

Check out all the spots below.

Top summer 2024 destinations on Google flights

The search engine technology company said the list reflects people in the U.S. searching on Google Flights for travel anytime between June 1 through August 31, 2024.

Cancun, which previously came in at number one during summer, dropped to number six, while Tokyo is on the rise, with Madrid and San Juan new to the summer location lineup.

1. London 2. Paris 3. Tokyo 4. Rome 5. New York 6. Cancun 7. Orlando 8. Las Vegas 9. Seattle 10. Athens 11. Los Angeles 12. Miami 13. Barcelona 14. Dublin 15. Fort Lauderdale 16. Honolulu 17. Denver 18. Madrid 19. Boston 20. San Juan

The biggest change from 2023, according to Google, is that Cancun moved down from the number two spot to number six, while Tokyo rose from number eight to number three.

Newcomers to the top destinations list include San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Madrid, Spain. Chicago and San Francisco didn't make the top 20 this year.

Travel trends on Google search

Google gathers insights from mid-January to mid-March from U.S. users to find out what travel-related queries are top of mind ahead of summer.

Searches for "travel itinerary" and "solo travel" reached an all-time high in January.

Two of the top trending "weekend getaway" destinations are Palm Springs and Florida Keys.

The top trending "romantic getaway" destinations were Napa, the famed California wine country, and Key West, home to the southernmost point in the Continental U.S. with historic landmarks.

Finally, La Romana and Saint John were the top trending destinations searched with all-inclusive resorts.

Related Topics

Up next in travel—.

Cybersecurity expert shares what guests, hotels should know in wake of Omni breach

What to know about JetBlue checked bag pricing, increased fees for Trusted Traveler Programs

King Charles III opens parts of Buckingham Palace, Balmoral Castle for 1st time

Shop editors picks, sponsored content by taboola.