Where to Travel in November: Best Destinations for Every Kind of Trip
November sits quietly between the seasons — a traveller’s sweet spot before the festive rush begins. In much of the northern hemisphere, autumn colours linger on tree-lined streets while winter’s first chill creeps in. Down south, summer is just beginning, bringing warm breezes, open roads, and empty beaches. It’s a month that rewards curiosity, offering the best of both worlds — fewer crowds, better prices, and destinations that feel like they’re all yours.
Whether you’re chasing sunshine in the southern hemisphere, exploring Europe’s shoulder-season charm, or planning a cultural getaway, November opens up the map in unexpected ways. From Japan’s fiery maple leaves to South Africa’s sun-drenched vineyards, here’s where to travel this November — no matter what kind of trip you’re dreaming of.
Seville, Spain
Why go in November
As northern Europe wraps up in scarves, Seville is still basking in warm, honeyed light. With average highs around 20°C, it’s the kind of weather where you can stroll all afternoon without breaking a sweat. November brings a slower rhythm to the city — no summer crowds, no blistering heat — just locals reclaiming the plazas, café chatter spilling onto cobbled streets, and the faint scent of orange blossom lingering in the air.
Top things to do
Wander through the Alcázar of Seville, where tiled courtyards and Moorish arches glow softly in autumn light.
Climb the Giralda Tower for sweeping views across the old town’s sea of terracotta rooftops.
Catch a live flamenco performance in Triana, the neighbourhood where it all began.
Explore Parque de María Luisa and the Plaza de España, two of Seville’s most iconic outdoor spaces, at their most peaceful.
Weather
Around 20°C by day and 10°C by night — pleasantly warm for sightseeing and alfresco dining. Rain is rare but not impossible; a light jacket will see you through.
What to pack
Light layers for the daytime, something warmer for evenings, and comfortable shoes — Seville is best explored on foot.
Travel tip
Head out for tapas hopping rather than a sit-down dinner — it’s how Sevillanos eat. Try espinacas con garbanzos (spinach and chickpeas) or salmorejo (a thicker, creamier gazpacho) with a cold glass of local sherry.
Seville, Spain.
Oaxaca, Mexico
Why go in November
Few cities capture the spirit of November quite like Oaxaca. As the rest of the world eases into winter, this vibrant southern Mexican city bursts into colour for Día de los Muertos — the Day of the Dead. Streets fill with marigold petals, candlelight flickers from altars, and locals gather in cemeteries to honour loved ones with music and mezcal. The festivities peak at the start of the month, but Oaxaca’s creative pulse lasts well beyond — with artisans, street food vendors, and markets keeping the city alive long after the celebrations fade.
Top things to do
Experience the Day of the Dead atmosphere at the city’s cemeteries, where families celebrate life with food and song.
Wander through the Mercado Benito Juárez for tamales, fresh cacao, and handmade crafts.
Visit the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán, perched high above the valley.
Sample local mezcal in one of Oaxaca’s many tasting rooms or palenques just outside town.
Weather
Expect warm, dry days averaging 27°C and cooler evenings around 13°C — ideal for exploring both the city and the surrounding valleys.
What to pack
Light clothing for daytime, a jumper or shawl for the evenings, and something festive if visiting during Day of the Dead — locals dress for the occasion.
Travel tip
Book accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit for Día de los Muertos (31 October – 2 November). Stay central to soak up the atmosphere, but step outside the city to discover traditional villages like Teotitlán del Valle, known for its handwoven textiles.
Oaxaca, Mexico.
Cape Town, South Africa
Why go in November
Cape Town in November feels like a city waking from hibernation. The first true days of summer arrive, the ocean shimmers in soft blue, and vineyards across Stellenbosch and Franschhoek turn lush and green. Before the December crowds roll in, the city enjoys a sweet balance — long, sunny days, mild evenings, and space to breathe at its beaches and mountain trails. It’s the ideal month for travellers who want summer energy without peak-season chaos.
Top things to do
Hike or take the cable car up Table Mountain for panoramic views over the Cape Peninsula.
Road-trip along Chapman’s Peak Drive — one of the world’s most scenic coastal routes.
Spend an afternoon wine tasting in Constantia or the Winelands beyond the city.
Watch the sunset from Signal Hill or the Camps Bay strip with a cold cider in hand.
Weather
Expect plenty of sunshine, with highs around 25°C and minimal rainfall. The famous Cape winds can pick up in the afternoons, so an extra layer never hurts.
What to pack
Light summer clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket for breezy evenings. Comfortable shoes are a must for hiking or exploring the coast.
Travel tip
For a local favourite, skip the tourist crowds at Table Mountain’s main station and hike Lion’s Head at sunrise instead — a short but rewarding climb with incredible city views.
Cape Town, South Africa.
Canary Islands, Spain
Why go in November
While much of Europe cools down, the Canary Islands keep their eternal spring. With daytime temperatures around 24°C, it’s warm enough for sea swims, coastal hikes, and lazy afternoons in open-air cafés. November brings quieter resorts, lower prices, and the same volcanic beauty — from black-sand beaches to misty mountain trails. Whether you base yourself in Tenerife’s lively south, Lanzarote’s lunar landscapes, or La Palma’s green heart, you’ll find a different side to island life at this time of year.
Top things to do
Explore the volcanic trails of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote or hike through Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife.
Stargaze from Teide National Park, one of the best places on Earth for astronomy.
Discover the slower pace of La Gomera, where cloud forests and coastal villages feel lost in time.
Unwind on golden beaches like Playa de las Teresitas or Papagayo.
Weather
Around 24°C by day and 18°C at night with minimal rain — ideal for swimming, hiking, or road-tripping.
What to pack
Swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and light layers for evenings. A light jacket is useful for higher-altitude hikes where it can get cool.
Travel tip
Consider island-hopping — local ferries connect Tenerife, La Gomera, and La Palma easily, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the islands’ variety without long flights.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain.
Patagonia, Chile and Argentina
Why go in November
November marks the true start of the Patagonian summer — a season of long daylight hours, blooming wildflowers, and open trails. It’s when this vast land of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and windswept plains shakes off its winter chill. The crowds haven’t yet arrived, but the weather is mild enough to make hiking, kayaking, and road-tripping across the Andes unforgettable. For photographers and adventurers alike, Patagonia in November is raw, dramatic, and wild in all the best ways.
Top things to do
Trek through Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, home to the iconic granite towers and brilliant blue lagoons.
Visit El Chaltén in Argentina, the self-proclaimed trekking capital of the country, and hike to Mount Fitz Roy.
Cruise past the glaciers of Lago Argentino, where icebergs drift past like floating sculptures.
Spot guanacos, condors, and flamingos across the region’s untouched steppe.
Weather
Expect highs of 15–18°C, cooler nights, and strong winds that define the region. Conditions can shift quickly — sunshine, rain, and gusts all in a single afternoon.
What to pack
Layer up — think thermals, waterproofs, and a good windbreaker. Comfortable hiking boots and a refillable water bottle are musts for multi-day treks.
Travel tip
Start in Puerto Natales (Chile) or El Calafate (Argentina) — both ideal bases for exploring Patagonia’s highlights. November’s shoulder-season charm means you’ll enjoy emptier trails and better deals on tours and lodges.
Patagonia, Argentina / Chile.
Marrakech, Morocco
Why go in November
November is the sweet spot in Marrakech — warm enough to bask in the sun, yet cool enough to explore without melting in the medina’s maze. With daytime highs around 25°C, this is when the city’s colours, sounds, and scents feel most alive but less overwhelming. The crowds of peak season are gone, the desert air is crisp, and the Atlas Mountains glow in snow-dusted contrast on the horizon.
Top things to do
Wander through the Medina, a labyrinth of souks where brass lamps, carpets, and spices spill into every corner.
Spend a serene afternoon in the Jardin Majorelle, Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic cobalt-blue oasis.
Sip mint tea on a riad rooftop as the call to prayer echoes across the city at sunset.
Take a day trip into the Agafay Desert or the foothills of the Atlas Mountains for camel rides and starlit dinners.
Weather
Daytime temperatures hover around 24–26°C, dropping to a mild 12°C at night — ideal for sightseeing and outdoor dining.
What to pack
Breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes for the souks, and a light jacket for evenings. Bring something modest for visiting religious or rural areas.
Travel tip
Head to the Bahia Palace or El Badi Palace early in the morning before the crowds arrive — the golden light streaming through the arches makes it worth the early start. For a quiet escape, stay in a riad inside the medina to soak up the real rhythm of Marrakech life.
Marrakesh, Morocco.
New Zealand (South Island)
Why go in November
November is one of the best months to experience New Zealand’s South Island before the summer crowds arrive. Spring paints the landscapes in wildflowers and new green, with snow still dusting the Southern Alps. The days are long and bright, perfect for road trips, mountain hikes, and lakeside picnics. With fewer tourists and mild weather, it’s a dream month for travellers who love nature, photography, and open roads.
Top things to do
Drive the Milford Road through Fiordland National Park and cruise Milford Sound under waterfalls and cliffs.
Hike part of the Routeburn Track or Abel Tasman Coastal Track for some of the country’s best scenery.
Visit Queenstown, the adventure capital, for bungee jumping, jet boating, or simply soaking up the mountain views.
Explore Lake Tekapo, framed by lupins in full bloom and the snow-capped peaks beyond.
Weather
Expect highs around 18–20°C, cooler in alpine areas. Rain is always possible, especially in Fiordland, but the mix of sunshine and dramatic skies makes it spectacular.
What to pack
Layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, and sunscreen. A camera is a must — the light in November is some of the clearest of the year.
Travel tip
Hire a campervan or car to explore freely — New Zealand’s roads are beautifully maintained, and campsites are scenic and well-equipped. November’s shoulder season also means easier bookings and lower prices.
Queenstown, South Island, New Zealand.
Sri Lanka
Why go in November
Sri Lanka in November is a story of contrasts — tropical heat on the coast, cool mist in the highlands, and sunshine breaking through as the monsoon fades in the south and west. It’s an ideal time to explore before the December crowds arrive. You can surf gentle waves at Weligama, wander tea trails in Ella, and climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, all under skies that shift between sun and soft cloud. The landscapes are green and fresh, the wildlife active, and the beaches beautifully quiet.
Top things to do
Ride the scenic train from Kandy to Ella, one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys.
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, rising dramatically above the jungle plains.
Spot elephants in Udawalawe National Park or leopards in Yala National Park.
Unwind on the beaches of Mirissa, Hiriketiya, or Unawatuna, where surf, seafood, and sunsets steal the show.
Weather
The south and west coasts (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa) enjoy warm, mostly dry weather around 30°C, while the central highlands are cooler and breezy. Occasional showers are short-lived and refreshing.
What to pack
Light, breathable clothing for the coast, a jumper or jacket for the hill country, and sturdy shoes for temple climbs or jungle walks. Don’t forget insect repellent and reef-safe sunscreen.
Travel tip
Plan your route with the weather in mind — focus on the south and west coasts, and avoid the northeast, which is still wrapping up its monsoon season. Hiring a private driver or using the train network makes exploring both easy and affordable.
Mirissa, Sri Lanka.
“November sits in that sweet space between seasons — when the world feels calmer, quieter, and somehow more yours. It’s the time to chase sunshine without the crowds, to wander cobbled streets without queues, and to see familiar places in a softer light.
From Seville’s golden plazas to Patagonia’s untamed frontiers, every destination this month tells a different story. The warmth of Morocco, the wildness of New Zealand, the spirit of Mexico — each one offers a reason to keep exploring, to travel slower, and to discover the beauty that lies just beyond peak season.
So wherever your November takes you, pack light, stay curious, and let the world unfold at its gentler pace — one golden sunset, one empty trail, one unforgettable moment at a time.”
