If you live in a place with all four seasons, then come November, fall has officially settled in. But with the colorful autumn foliage having already run its course in many places, November is left with all of the cold and almost none of the vibrancy of earlier months. So there are a few reasons you might be looking to escape the dreary November weather. But the question remains, where to go in this strange in-between month that’s not technically winter but can certainly feel like it? Well, here are 21 of the best places to travel in November for a trip that’ll bring the season to life or make you forget what season it is entirely.
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Table of Contents
- The Best Warm-Weather Places to Travel to in November
- The Best Places to Travel in November for Wining and Dining
- The Best Nature Spots to Travel to in November
- The Best Places to Travel in November for a Fun City Escape
- The Best Places to Travel in November for Beautiful Parks
The Best Warm-Weather Places to Travel to in November
Australia
The only country that sprawls across an entire continent, Australia is the perfect winter getaway destination. This country is the epitome of a choose-your-own-adventure, from Sydney’s big-city charms to the pristine landscapes of the Eyre Peninsula and the coastal beaches of Kangaroo Island. Australia’s located in the southern hemisphere, so while the USA is slowly slinking its way into winter, summer is soon to arrive down under. That means warm weather, sunshine, and plenty of beach days on the horizon.
Australia is a year-round charmer, no doubt. But visiting in spring promises a special charm: active wildlife, including whale migrations, spring blooms in full force, and popular attractions with fewer crowds than during peak season. Whether you’re in the mood to discover a new city, frolic in nature, or dive headfirst into turquoise blue waters, Australia delivers action, relaxation, and epic experiences at every turn.
Avg. Temperatures: 68°F to 85°F
Highlight: Road trip along the Great Ocean Road for jaw-dropping coastlines, the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks, the Gibson Steps, and infinitely more beautiful landmarks along the way.
Spain
A bit of rain can’t dampen the absolute magic that is Spain in autumn. November brings a more tranquil side of the country to the forefront. The weather cools down, but blue skies still reign, and the large summer tourist crowds are nowhere to be seen. From the green mountains of Bilbao in the north to the sun-kissed shores of Andalusia in the south, Spain bursts with life, color, and idyllic scenes—whether they be city sequences, country vignettes, or natural vistas.
Spain in autumn is more authentic. The season immerses visitors in Spanish culture with time-honored traditions like the celebrations of All Saints’ Day and the harvest season in La Rioja. Indulge in the serene streets of Bilbao’s Old Town. Soak in the romance of Seville, or escape to the golden beaches of the Canary Islands. Spain’s deeply-rooted culture, architectural marvels, and natural splendor make it a one-of-a-kind getaway and one of the best places to travel in November.
Avg. Temperatures: 60°F to 68°F
Highlight: Head to the Canary Islands for a sun-soaked vacation that’s infused with Mediterranean scenery and fun volcanic landscapes.
Belize
Belize only has two seasons, wet and dry, and November falls right on the cusp. The weather cools down from summer’s scorching heat, and the rain starts to peter out, leaving days warm and relatively dry, perfect for exploring the island and its beautiful cayes.
Because December is the official start of the dry season, November is often overlooked as a good time to visit Belize. But this month is a true sweet spot. The weather only gets lovelier the later it gets. Even better, it comes without the mass of crowds that arrive in peak season. This leaves travelers free to fully enjoy the rich culture and laid-back atmosphere of Belize. Tour the Mayan ruins in San Ignacio, snorkel in the waters off of Ambergris Caye, and indulge in the charming island vibes of Caye Caulker. From the warm ocean waters to the white sand beaches, Belize is the quintessential Caribbean getaway and an ideal place for a winter escape.
Avg. Temperatures: 81°F
Highlight: Dive the Great Blue Hole in Belize to see the stalactites at 130 feet down, or fly overhead to take in the view of this geological marvel from the sky.
Oman
November is actually peak travel season in Oman, but don’t let the threat of crowds scare you away from one of the best places to travel at this time of year. Oman, officially the Sultanate of Oman, is a warm-weather jewel in the Middle East. The country’s traditional roots, paired with its stunning desert landscapes, create a destination that feels straight out of a storybook. Picturesque cities sit seated at the feet of soaring mountains, waterfalls and swimming holes lie tucked away in towering canyons, glittering blue waters kiss golden coasts, and an ocean of sand dunes stretches as far as the eye can see.
Oman’s allure lies in its sense of adventure and calm mystique, where one day, you can be swimming in a sinkhole or riding over desert dunes, and the next, you can stand in awe of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque or relax beachside at The Chedi Muscat. In short, every day feels like a fresh canvas on which to paint your picture-perfect escape.
Avg. Temperatures: 77°F to 86°F
Highlight: Hike and swim to Wadi Shab for a unique Oman adventure or go wild camping in Wahiba Sands for a sunrise/sunset combo you won’t forget.
Florida Keys
Florida is not known for mild summer temperatures, but in November, that’s precisely what you’ll get in the Florida Keys. November is both cooler and drier than the typical summer months. But, as it’s not completely clear of hurricane season just yet, it’s considered an “off” month, making it one of the few times to score some great deals while also enjoying a more forgiving side of Florida’s non-winter temps.
The Florida Keys are a playground for warm-weather fun, whether you’re in the mood for excitement or laid-back relaxation. The 125-mile-long island chain is a true water haven, with phenomenal fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The Upper Keys are the best place to experience the excitement of the islands, but if you prefer to kick back and channel your inner beach bum, then the Lower Keys might be more your speed. But up and down the island chain, you’ll find no shortage of thrilling adventures, lively culture, and pristine beauty. Wherever you decide fits your ideal escape, the Florida Keys pack it all into one seemingly never-ending chain of islands.
Avg. Temperatures: 78°F to 82°F
Highlight: Kayak through mangrove tunnels bursting with fascinating wildlife, from tropical birds to nurse sharks and more.
The Best Places to Travel in November for Wining and Dining
Sonoma & Napa Valley, California
If Napa Valley is the standout star of wine country in the US, then Sonoma County is the cool, laidback little sister. And there’s no better time to visit either one than in the midst of the harvest season. November brings rich hues, cool and crisp weather, and all the cozy vibes you could wish for.
While harvesting grapes and winemaking begin a bit earlier in the season, November kicks off with its own special season in Napa Valley: cabernet season. In between the rush of prime harvest season and the holidays, this month marks a quieter and slower-paced time to visit the region. And that’s what makes it the perfect time to wine and dine your way through Napa Valley and Sonoma County. In contrast with its vast valleys of vineyards, Sonoma County offers its own intimate experiences come November, with small, boutique vineyards and cozy fireside tastings. Whether you’re in the mood for a rich Cabernet or a springy Pinot Noir, you can’t deny that Napa Valley and Sonoma County fit together in a perfect pairing that’s hard to beat.
Avg. Temperatures: 60°F to 71°F
Highlight: The highlights in Sonoma and Napa Valley are endless. Don’t miss a stay at Macarthur Place Hotel & Spa for atmospheric rooms, indulgent spas, and an on-site restaurant that serves up elevated seasonal fare. And November is the perfect time to hop on a scenic wine trolley or head up in a hot air balloon for epic views over sprawling vineyards.
Mendoza, Argentina
Pair expansive vineyards, snowy mountains, and endless adventures together, and what do you get? A destination that’s as beautiful as it is exciting. Mendoza in November is a picturesque springtime getaway. And as spring slides its way into summer, it’s the perfect time to slide into Mendoza’s exceptional vineyards. As one of the world’s winemaking capitals and the heart of wine country in western Argentina, Mendoza boasts all the staples of a superb wine region: good wine, good views, and a good time. Sip on a spicy Malbec or refreshing Torrontés while soaking in the views of the Aconcagua Mountains in the distance.
The sprawling vineyards in Mendoza evoke the bucolic countryside of Tuscany, while the mountains add a touch of drama. This makes it a beautiful place to bike, hike, or simply admire from the porch of a vineyard. In truth, there’s no wrong way to enjoy Mendoza, but the best way is to take it in slowly, from every world-class sip to gourmet bite, for an experience that ages like a fine wine. November’s mix of laid-back calm and warm-weather adventure makes this a slam dunk among the best places to travel at this time of year.
Avg. Temperatures: 79°F to 85°F
Highlight: Take a cooking class at the idyllic Awasi Mendoza, horseback ride with gauchos through the vineyards of Mendoza, and go for a relaxing dip in Cacheuta Thermal Baths.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is where East meets West in every sense—culture, history, and, most importantly, the cuisine. From colorful food markets to curated tables, Turkey’s culinary scene is a smorgasbord of flavors influenced by traditional roots and global ingredients. November brings a sense of mystery and atmosphere to Istanbul with its cooler temperatures and autumn colors, but the food is always refreshingly upfront and delightfully delectable, from kebabs and lahmacun to Künefe and Turkish delight.
Tour the food stalls and spice market of Istanbul’s Old Town on the European side before crossing the Bosphorus to explore trendy Kadıköy and its mix of local restaurants and vibrant market stalls on the Asian side. Istanbul’s streets burst with color and flavor at every step, and whether you’re a street food connoisseur or a fine dining fanatic, Istanbul welcomes you with open arms and a simmering kitchen.
Avg. Temperatures: 55°F to 65°F
Highlight: Exploring the Grand Bazaar and Spice Market are Istanbul staples. Still, the Dolmabahçe Palace is a must-see, alongside an indulgent visit to a 16th-century Ottoman hamam.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is renowned worldwide as a food lover’s paradise. The temples shine, the city life excites, but when you ask people for their memories of their trip, food doesn’t get just a mention; it gets its own highlight reel. The food in Bangkok is some of the best in the world—and you’ll find your favorite places among the food stalls lining the streets, markets, and even the malls. Sweet and nutty pad thai, juicy Thai satay skewers, flavorful sukiyaki noodles, savory pork dumplings, and mango sticky rice are just the start.
Thailand’s bold flavors and inexpensive eats make it easy to explore Bangkok one bite at a time. And November is one of the best months to do it, when both the heat and humidity drop and the wet season finally subsides, encouraging travelers to fully immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this bustling city.
Avg. Temperatures: 85°F to 92°F
Highlight: Indulge in a feast at the Jodd Fair and Yaowarat Road Night Market, and make time to explore the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
The Best Nature Spots to Travel to in November
New Zealand
November is late spring in New Zealand, and an absolute gem of a time to travel to the cousin of the land down under. The weather turns sweet, neither too cold nor too hot; the days become sunny, and the night skies clear. The scenery is unmatched, with snow-topped mountains, valleys covered in wildflowers, and cascading falls surrounded by new lush greenery.
And the landscape isn’t the only thing coming alive. New Zealand’s wildlife bursts onto the scene, with newborn lambs in the fields, seal pups along the coast, and migrating orcas, blue whales, dolphins, and more more in the waters of Kaikoura and the Hauraki Gulf. From the white beaches and azure waters of Abel Tasman National Park on the South Island to the rolling hills and sandstone cliffs of Hawkes Bay on the North Island, everywhere you look is pristine landscapes and epic viewpoints awaiting exploration.
Avg. Temperatures: 61°F to 71°F North Island; 54-68°F South Island
Highlight: New Zealand is ideal for road trips and camping, making road tripping in a campervan the ultimate experience and the best way to see New Zealand in all its pristine and unspoiled glory.
Chile
Another southern hemisphere gem, Chile brings out all the stops to impress. From blooms in Patagonia to warm days and clear skies in the Atacama Desert, the mild weather present across Chile means you can unreservedly dive into nature and adventure in some of the most unspoilt natural landscapes in the world.
The Atacama Desert is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, let alone in Chile, and offers hot air balloon rides over moonlike landscapes, jeep drives across salt flats, and private astronomical tours. In the central wine regions, lush vineyards cover rolling hills in breathtaking scenery, perfect for a picturesque drive. And down south, Chile’s Lake District promises pretty glittering lakes surrounded by bright spring flora and towering mountains still capped in snow for epic hikes to stunning vistas. Chile in November is an exceptional beauty that makes it easily one of the best places to travel for a vibrant escape.
Avg. Temperatures: 65°F to 71°F
Highlight: Stargazing in the Atacama Desert is a singular experience, and there are few better places to do it than from Tierra Atacama, perched on the edge of San Pedro de Atacama and boasting the ideal blend of luxury comforts and endless desert adventures.
Norway
Late fall into winter in Norway may, at first, seem like a terrible joke, but the reality of the season may surprise you. Norway in November is actually a delightful and magical time to visit. While summer is often touted as the best time to enjoy Norway’s outdoor pursuits, November offers many of the same experiences in addition to seasonal delights and low-season perks. Cruise through fjords, hike mountain trails, and visit iconic sights like Pulpit Rock without the crush of crowds seen in summer. From chasing northern lights to cruising through snow-dusted fjords and mushing over frozen landscapes, November’s beauty shines even in the low light of winter.
Avg. Temperatures: 59°F to 71°F
Highlight: Experience polar nights, when the sun doesn’t rise at all, and head to Tromsø or the Lofoten Islands for an unforgettable look at the northern lights.
Bali
Falling between the wet and dry seasons, Bali in November boasts the best of both worlds, making it one of the best places to travel. Rain comes and goes in short bursts, but leaves behind a wealth of lush landscapes to delight nature lovers and photographers alike. Waterfalls and rice terraces become especially verdant after the rains, making this an ideal time to soak in the dramatic rush of waterfalls like Tegenungan, Sekumpul, and Kanto Lampo, as well as the beauty of rice fields like Jatiluwih, Tegallalang, and Muduk.
Everywhere you turn, the scenery is striking, whether it’s steep rice terraces stretching into the distance, verdant forests surrounding rushing falls and streams, or green hills rising in the distance. And there are so many ways to enjoy it: hiking through dense foliage, biking over rice terrace paths, and even soaring over the scenery on the seat of a swing. Bali’s beauty is all around and in vivid color.
Avg. Temperatures: 77°F to 86°F
Highlight: Experiencing the sunrise in Bali is a one-of-a-kind event, no matter where you choose to do it from (and there are so many places to choose from!), but the view from Bukit Cinta is as close to magic as it gets.
The Best Places to Travel to in November for a Fun City Escape
Lisbon, Portugal
November in Lisbon manages to hit that Goldilocks’ standard of “just right” for weather. Days are mild, dry, and sunny, while nights are cool and clear. The crowds have largely thinned out, too, leaving travelers free to experience a cozier, more local side to this vibrant city.
Hop on Tram 28 for a scenic ride and to take the city’s measure before venturing out into colorful neighborhoods for a closer look. Get caught up in the warm and soulful melodies of a fado show, tour the city’s eclectic museums for an immersive cultural experience, and visit the festive Christmas markets popping up all over the city. Lisbon in November offers an intimate glimpse into what the city’s all about, with a vibrant atmosphere and streets bustling with activity that will sweep you right up in the fall magic.
Avg. Temperatures: 62°F to 66°F
Highlight: Seek out the best views in Lisbon by exploring the city’s miradouros, from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte to Miradouro de Santa Luzia and so many more. Lisbon’s hills provide beautiful views all over the city.
Mexico City, Mexico
Two major reasons to visit Mexico City are the food and the museums, and good news for travelers: both are in abundance come November. In late fall, the crowds depart, and cultural depth shines. Walking through the city streets unveils fresh art painted on building walls, and temporary altars sprout from the concrete like wildflowers, turning the city into an open-air gallery. That’s on top of the over 150 museums populating Mexico City, covering everything from art and history to invention and anthropology, and even chocolate.
Speaking of chocolate, temporary markets are another popular staple in November, offering treats like tamales, atole, tapas, churros, and more. November’s crisp air and buzzing energy, paired with the city’s colorful streets and rich cultural heritage, make exploring Mexico City one of the best ways to spend your time off in November.
Avg. Temperatures: 65°F to 75°F
Highlight: Ride a hot air balloon over Teotihuacan at sunrise for one of the most incredible experiences in Mexico.
Tokyo, Japan
With the arrival of autumn, the heat that plagues Tokyo’s summers is left behind and fun fall cheer kicks into high gear—think events spanning food, culture, sports, and more. The city is still awash in autumnal colors, making it a picturesque time to explore. Don a kimono and stroll through the fall colors at Shinjuku Gyoen, or take a walk down the iconic ginkgo tree avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien. Cultural events in November are also popping up all over the city, from the Bunkyo Chrysanthemum Festival to the Autumn Leaves Festival at Mount Takao and more.
In general, November is one of the best times to sightsee, and in places like Tokyo, there is so much to see: explore the bustling Shinjuku district, be mesmerized by the digital art displays at Mori, admire the traditional architecture and stunning green spaces of Meiji Shrine—the list goes on. Whether you come for the culture, the sights, or the atmosphere, Tokyo delivers an unparalleled experience in November and in every season.
Avg. Temperatures: 46°F to 50°F
Highlight: Take a day trip out of Tokyo to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see the iconic view of Mt. Fuji. Whether you view it from the idyllic waters of Lake Kawaguchiko or from the famous Chureito Pagoda, this is one experience you can’t miss while in Tokyo.
The Best Places to Travel in November for Beautiful Parks
Death Valley National Park, California
The hottest and driest place on Earth, Death Valley National Park is often too hot to even think of exploring. In summer, temperatures average over 100°F. But come November, the cool season starts to set in, and with temperatures dropping to more comfortable levels, it’s an ideal time to explore one of the most interesting parks in the US.
Despite its barren appearance, life abounds in Death Valley. The park is home to over a thousand species of plants and hundreds of birds and mammals. The landscape is also breathtakingly dramatic, featuring stunning salt flats, kaleidoscope-colored canyons, and other remarkable sights. From sunsets over Mesquite Sand Dunes to photographs from Dante’s point and random pull-offs along Artist’s Drive, Death Valley is magic in winter and one of the best places to travel in November.
Avg. Temperatures: 75°F to 80°F
Highlight: Visit the lowest point in the US at Badwater Basin, 282 feet below sea level, before heading to Mount Whitney, one of the highest peaks in the US at 14,505 feet above sea level. It’s an awe-inspiring experience to combine in one thrilling day of exploration.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
November is often seen as a season of endings. Leaves fall, days become shorter and colder, and creatures go into hibernation. But in Kruger National Park, November is seen as a season of new beginnings. Trees sprout new leaves, wildflowers blossom across the plains, and birthing season arrives for many of South Africa’s iconic species, including the slender impala. Pair abundant wildlife sightings with excellent birdwatching from migratory arrivals, and dramatic skies and light—you get a recipe for excitement, adventure, and beauty at every turn, making November one of the best times to travel to this national park.
Avg. Temperatures: 86°F to 93°F
Highlight: A big game drive or safari walk through Kruger National Park in search of the Big Five is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after your trip ends.
Yasuní National Park, Ecuador
Nestled deep in the Amazon jungle, Yasuní National Park is a natural paradise of verdant greenery bursting with life and color. The park sprawls across untamed and unspoilt landscapes and boasts some of the richest biodiversity on the planet. With over 1,400 distinct species of animals, it’s no wonder this is one of the most fascinating places on Earth to visit. And November is the perfect time to do it. The end of the wet season brings more favorable weather and readily observable wildlife, allowing you to get your fill of the flora and fauna that call Yasuní home.
Avg. Temperatures: 87°F
Highlight: Wildlife watching is the number one activity in Yasuní forest, but meeting the jungle tribes that call Yasuní home—the Waorani in the west and the Kichwa in the north—provides an awe-inspiring look into life in the jungle and these tribes’ unique customs and cultures.
Lake District National Park, England
In a country known for its gray skies and rain, it may seem counterintuitive to travel here during a notoriously wet and rainy season. But November brings a bit of magic to the English countryside, with dramatic colors blanketing the landscape, less rainfall than you’d expect, and festive holiday displays already popping up in shop windows.
From hiking to ancient castles and waterfalls to driving along the lakeshores and riding the scenic railways, the Lake District bursts with fun activities and quiet and cozy moments. Between the tiny villages offering up enchanted stays and unspoilt landscapes spilling into the distance, the quiet calm of November makes the Lake District one of the best places to travel at this time of year and an instant favorite for many.
Avg. Temperatures: 37°F to 46°F
Highlight: Every day in the Lake District National Park is a highlight, but for a truly magical experience, the following two activities are a must: walking through the atmospheric Cathedral Cove and taking in the views across Derwentwater from Friars Crag.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
At 1,252 square miles, Big Bend National Park is larger than the state of Rhode Island, yet it sees far fewer visitors than the smallest state in the Union. The park is a stunning amalgamation of geological contrasts—vegetation belts along the Rio Grande, jagged peaks in the Chisos Mountains, limestone outcrops in towering canyons, and the barren landscape of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Hike the Chisos Mountains, take a river walk at the foot of giant limestone cliffs in Boquillas Canyon, and drive along the scenic Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Whether hiking, driving, or canoeing, Big Bend is a pure shot of adventure. And while it’s a year-round destination, November brings the perfect blend of pleasant temperatures, peaceful solitude, and abundant beauty to make it a knock-out fall destination and one of the best places to visit.
Avg. Temperatures: 65°F to 74°F
Highlight: Indulge in a stay at Summit Big Bend for a unique glamping experience under the stars in a stargazing suite or luxury cave, both of which offer incredible views and an unforgettable experience.
