Why November is an Ideal Month for Travel
Weather Advantages and Off-Peak Perks
November is regarded as a peak shoulder season—an ideal balance of lower prices, mild weather, and fewer tourists. According to travel data, destinations across Europe, North America, and tropical regions experience 20–50% fewer crowds compared to summer highs. Hotel and flight prices drop significantly, with some destinations seeing rates up to 30% lower than peak seasons. For example, European cities like Lisbon and Rome offer pleasant weather in the mid-teens °C (50s–60s °F) alongside historic sites free from heavy summer crowds. In the Southern Hemisphere, spring is in full bloom—destinations like New Zealand or South Africa present ideal outdoor weather and minimal rainfall, enhancing adventure and wildlife experiences.
Unique Events and Festivals in November
November also features some of the most distinctive cultural festivals worldwide. Highlights include Japan’s momiji (autumn foliage) season in Kyoto, Thailand’s Loy Krathong lantern festival (November 6), the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, and the Festival dei Popoli (Europe’s premier documentary film event) in Florence. Holiday markets begin opening in late November across Europe, signaling the festive transition without the December rush.
Top 10 Best Places to Travel in November (2026)
1. Iconic Destinations with Perfect November Weather
- Italy (Venice, Rome): Enjoy mild temperatures and iconic sights without crowds; sample seasonal truffles and roasted chestnuts. Daytime highs typically hover around 15°C (59°F).
- Morocco: Pleasantly warm (average 22°C/72°F); explore citadels and souks amid comfortable, dry air.
- San Diego, California: Sunny skies and warmth average 18–22°C (65–72°F), ideal for beach visits and Balboa Park without summer congestion.
- Maui, Hawaii: Warm tropical air, less crowded beaches—highs near 27°C (80°F).
2. Hidden Gems Off the Beaten Path
- Los Cabos, Mexico: Post-rain greenery, desert blooms, and a laid-back atmosphere attract those seeking peace after hurricane season.
- Canary Islands, Spain: Escape European winter with temperatures around 22°C (72°F), volcanic landscapes, and unique local traditions.
- Havana, Cuba: Mild weather (average 28°C/82°F) with vibrant culture and fewer crowds than the Caribbean winter peak.
3. Best Places for Fall Foliage in November
- Kyoto, Japan: Renowned for radiant autumn colors in temple gardens; late November sees peak leaf colors.
- Tuscany, Italy: Vineyards and rolling hills shift to gold and rust; ideal for tranquil drives.
- British Columbia, Canada: Coastal and mountain regions offer snow-capped backdrops amid the final days of fall hues.
4. Sun-Seeking Spots for Warm Getaways
- Thailand (Bangkok, Phuket): Dry season starts—ideal beaches and festivals. November highs: 31°C (88°F).
- Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang): Rainy season ends—temperatures range 24–28°C (75–82°F).
- Fiji: Warm waters, low tourism—32°C (90°F) on average with excellent diving and surfing.
5. Adventure Travel Destinations
- South Africa: Early dry season—a top period for wildlife safaris in Kruger and private reserves.
- New Zealand: Late spring means mild temperatures and prime hiking, kayaking, and mountain exploring.
- Peru (Machu Picchu): Clear trails just before rainy season peaks; crowds thin, allowing immersive hikes.
6. Best Global Destinations for Culinary Experiences
- Napa Valley, California: Golden post-harvest vineyards, wine tastings, and farm-to-table dining.
- Kyoto, Japan: Traditional tea houses pair with seasonal kaiseki cuisine amid autumn gardens.
- Morocco (Marrakech): Fragrant souks, street food, and regional specialities are enhanced by comfortable weather.
7. Family-Friendly Travel Picks
- Maui, Hawaii: Kid-friendly beaches, gentle surf, and accessible hiking—less crowded than summer, making for stress-free family trips.
- Canary Islands: Mild, safe, and great for multi-generational travel—waterparks and nature reserves abound.
- Los Cabos, Mexico: Calm post-summer season, family-friendly excursions like whale watching begin in November.
8. Top Cities for Culture & History Buffs
- Rome, Italy: Short lines at landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican; lively food and wine scene.
- Lisbon, Portugal: November offers affordable stays, fado music, and historic neighborhoods without the bustle.
- London, UK: Enjoy Bonfire Night (November 5), art exhibitions, and early Christmas decorations.
9. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly November Trips
- Bhutan: Strict visitor limits ensure sustainability; cool, dry climate for trekking.
- Botswana: Safari reserves prioritize conservation; November sees the arrival of migratory wildlife.
- Finland: Observe the Northern Lights in eco-lodges, explore Lapland with minimal impact.
10. Destinations with Notable November Events/Festivals
- New York City: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and ice skating at Rockefeller Center mark the festive season.
- Florence, Italy: Festival dei Popoli for film enthusiasts, Florence Marathon, and Christmas markets open in late November.
- Thailand: Loy Krathong—lantern festivals light up cities like Bangkok, creating unforgettable scenes.
Climate-Based Travel Picks for November
Tropical Escapes
- Maui, Hawaii
- Phuket, Thailand
- Fiji
| Destination | Avg Temp (°C) | Weather Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Maui | 27 | Dry/tranquil |
| Phuket | 31 | Start of dry season |
| Fiji | 32 | Dry/low tourism |
Cozy Cool-Weather Retreats
- Kyoto, Japan: Crisp air and blazing foliage
- British Columbia, Canada: Early snow and peaceful mountain resorts
- Finland: Lapland’s snow, Northern Lights, and husky sledding
Mild & Pleasant Urban Adventures
- Rome, Italy: 13–17°C (55–63°F), fewer tourists
- Lisbon, Portugal: 15–20°C (59–68°F), affordable rates
- Barcelona, Spain: Late autumn sun and cultural events
Expert Tips for Planning Your November Vacation
How to Find the Best Deals in November 2026
- Leverage price comparison sites for flights—November averages up to 30% lower fares on Europe-North America routes.
- Book early for popular festivals (e.g., Loy Krathong, Macy’s Parade), as limited availability can drive up prices as dates approach.
- Use loyalty programs and travel points for urban hotels—many see the year’s best redemption values in November.
Packing Essentials for November Travel
- Layered clothing: Lightweight tops for warm days, sweaters/jackets for cool evenings
- Umbrella or waterproof jacket for regions with possible showers (e.g., North Italy, UK)
- Reusable water bottle and travel insurance (especially for adventure or wildlife trips)
Safety, Health, and Travel Insurance Guidance
- Check destination-specific health requirements—seasonal outbreaks (flu, dengue) may vary in some tropical regions
- Comprehensive travel insurance is crucial—cancellations, health emergencies, and weather events can disrupt November plans
- Monitor local news for updates about weather, strikes, or safety advisories. Refer to government sites for the latest.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling in November
Is November a busy travel season?
No, November is typically a shoulder or off-peak period in most locations, offering fewer crowds and greater availability at attractions, hotels, and restaurants—except for specific festival dates or U.S. Thanksgiving when bookings rise.
What are the pros and cons of traveling in November?
- Pros: Fewer tourists, lower prices, cultural festivals, and comfortable weather in many destinations; often better access to local experiences.
- Cons: Variable weather (possible early snow or rain in northern regions), some attractions close in the low season, limited daylight hours in high-latitude areas.
Are flights and accommodations cheaper in November?
Yes. Data from 2024–2026 indicates flights can be 20–30% less expensive, and hotels in major European cities see average nightly rates drop by 15–35% compared to high summer. Exceptions include major holiday events or festivals, where demand drives temporary price increases.
How We Selected the Best Places to Travel in November 2026
Research Methods and Criteria
- Destinations were assessed using weather data, event/festival calendars, crowd and price trends, and sustainability scores.
- Historical travel price trends from booking sites and tourism boards were compared to project 2026 conditions.
- Expert sources including Lonely Planet, Audley Travel, World Population Review, and traveler forums provided direct recommendations.
Reader & Expert Recommendations
- Reader favorites from Jetpac Global, Timeshares Only, and Gap360 were cross-referenced with expert picks for accuracy.
- All selections scored for weather reliability, uniqueness of experience, and off-peak advantages in November.
- For real-time deals, search flight prices here and compare hotel rates here.
Ready to book your November 2026 getaway? Use the links above to find current deals and secure the best rates for your chosen destination.