Best countries to visit in November

Discover the best countries to visit in November, from vibrant cultural festivals in Asia to fall getaways in Europe. Explore top warm-weather escapes, budget-friendly travel tips, and unique seasonal experiences.

Is November the new best-kept secret in travel? As summer crowds vanish and winter chill hasn’t fully set in, November offers a golden window to explore the world—minus the chaos and sky-high prices. Think fiery autumn foliage, mystical festivals, budget-friendly stays, and local experiences that feel personal—not packed.

Whether you’re craving sun-soaked beaches, ancient temples wrapped in golden leaves, or cultural festivals that light up the soul, this list of the best countries to visit in November delivers it all. With a special spotlight on Europe’s fall charm, you’ll discover where to go, what to see, and how to make the most of this underrated travel month.

Ready to beat the crowds and embrace the magic of shoulder season? Your perfect November escape is just a scroll away.

This comprehensive guide spotlights the 15 best countries to visit in November, explaining why the month is a shoulder-season sweet spot for savvy travelers. Each destination—spanning Asia, Europe, Africa, Oceania, and the Middle East—offers a unique blend of thinner crowds, milder weather, lower prices, and culturally rich festivals.

Highlights include Japan’s peak autumn foliage, Thailand’s post-monsoon beach weather and Loi Krathong, Mexico’s Día de los Muertos celebrations, Morocco’s comfortably cool desert tours, Australia’s spring bloom, and Scandinavia’s early Northern Lights season. A quick-reference table compares climate, signature experiences, and hidden gems—like Chile’s Chiloé Island and Vietnam’s Ha Giang Loop—so readers can swiftly choose the perfect November escape.

Jump to sections:

Top 15 best countries to visit in November
Why travel in November
Conclusion

Top 15 best countries to visit in November

Quick Reference Table

#	Country	November Highlight	Typical Climate	Hidden Gem
1	Japan	Peak autumn foliage in Kyoto & Nikko	10–15 °C, crisp	Mount Koya monastery stay
2	Thailand	Dry‑season beach weather & Loi Krathong	25–32 °C, sunny	Pai mountain retreat
3	Mexico	Día de los Muertos festivities	20–28 °C, dry	San Miguel de Allende
4	Morocco	Comfortable desert temps	20 °C days / 10 °C nights	Chefchaouen blue lanes
5	Australia	Spring blooms & Melbourne Cup	20–28 °C, mild	Kangaroo Island wildlife
6	Vietnam	Dry north & south for touring	18–26 °C, pleasant	Ha Giang Loop vistas
7	South Africa	Early‑summer safaris & vineyards	20–28 °C, warm	Cederberg rock art
8	Chile	Patagonia trekking season opens	12–22 °C (cooler south)	Chiloé Island folklore
9	Spain	Mild Andalusian culture trips	12–20 °C	Ronda cliff city
10	Portugal	Quiet Algarve coasts	15–20 °C, sunny	Monsaraz hill village
11	France	Cozy cafés & Beaujolais Nouveau	7–12 °C, crisp	Colmar Alsace charm
12	Austria	Markets & classical concerts	2–8 °C, chilly	Hallstatt lakeside
13	Germany	Early Christmas markets	3–8 °C, cool	Bamberg medieval town
14	Dubai	Pleasant desert adventures	25–30 °C, dry	Al Qudra Lakes oasis
15	Scandinavia	Northern Lights season begins	Below 0 °C, snowy	Abisko aurora hub

Japan

Why Visit in November:
November is Japan’s peak autumn foliage season, transforming iconic landscapes into breathtaking canvases of red, orange, and gold. This is the ideal time to explore Kyoto’s serene temples, stroll through the ancient forests of Nikko, and witness cultural traditions amid cool, crisp air.

Climate: Cool and comfortable, averaging 10–15°C (50–59°F)
Must-See Events: Autumn festivals like Shichi-Go-San and local harvest celebrations
Hidden Gem: Mount Koya, a spiritual retreat offering tranquil temple stays surrounded by vibrant autumn colors
Travel Tip: Book accommodation early in Kyoto for prime foliage viewing spots

Thailand

Why Visit in November:
November marks the end of the rainy season and the start of the dry, sunny weather perfect for beach lovers and island hoppers. Cultural festivals such as Loi Krathong (the lantern festival) light up the night skies, adding magic to the warm evenings.

Climate: Warm, dry, and sunny (25–32°C / 77–90°F)
Must-See Events: Loi Krathong festival with floating lanterns
Hidden Gem: Pai, a peaceful mountain town with hot springs, waterfalls, and laid-back vibes
Travel Tip: Explore northern Thailand’s hills before the tourist rush begins

Mexico

Why Visit in November:
Experience Mexico’s most iconic cultural celebration, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), a vibrant festival honoring ancestors with colorful altars, parades, and traditional foods. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring colonial cities and beaches.

Climate: Dry and warm, around 20–28°C (68–82°F)
Must-See Events: Day of the Dead in Oaxaca and Mexico City
Hidden Gem: San Miguel de Allende, a colonial town with cobblestone streets and festive celebrations
Travel Tip: Book festival tours early and try local foods like pan de muerto (sweet bread)

Morocco

Why Visit in November:
Morocco’s harsh summer heat softens in November, making desert excursions and city explorations comfortable. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the tranquil blue streets of Chefchaouen, the country blends culture, adventure, and natural beauty.

Climate: Mild days (20°C/68°F), cool nights (10°C/50°F)
Must-See Events: Marrakech International Film Festival
Hidden Gem: Chefchaouen, the “Blue City” nestled in the Rif Mountains, perfect for photographers and hikers
Travel Tip: Take a desert tour to the Sahara for star-studded skies and camel treks

Australia

Why Visit in November:
November is late spring in Australia, with blossoming wildflowers and warmer temperatures along the coast. Tourist numbers are still low before summer, making it a great time to explore cities, beaches, and natural parks.

Climate: Warm and sunny, especially along the east coast (20–28°C / 68–82°F)
Must-See Events: Melbourne Cup horse race, a major social and sporting event
Hidden Gem: Kangaroo Island, renowned for wildlife spotting, rugged coastlines, and vineyards
Travel Tip: Visit the Great Ocean Road early in the season for fewer crowds

Vietnam

Why Visit in November:
November brings dry and cool weather to both northern and southern Vietnam, ideal for exploring bustling cities and dramatic landscapes alike. The northern highlands showcase colorful ethnic cultures and stunning mountain vistas.

Climate: Mild and dry, 18–26°C (64–79°F)
Must-See Events: Mid-Autumn Festival in some regions
Hidden Gem: The Ha Giang Loop, a scenic mountainous route with vibrant ethnic minority villages
Travel Tip: Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter before the winter chill sets in

South Africa

Why Visit in November:
November is early summer in South Africa, with pleasant weather for wildlife safaris, beach days, and vineyard tours. It’s a prime time for spotting the Big Five and enjoying outdoor activities before peak season crowds arrive.

Climate: Warm days, 20–28°C (68–82°F), cooler nights
Must-See Events: Johannesburg Arts Alive Festival
Hidden Gem: The Cederberg Mountains, perfect for hiking and discovering ancient rock art
Travel Tip: Book safari lodges early as November gains popularity among travelers

Chile

Why Visit in November:
November signals spring in Chile, bringing blossoming landscapes and ideal conditions for trekking Patagonia’s wild frontiers. The milder weather invites exploration from Santiago to the far south.

Climate: Mild, 12–22°C (54–72°F), cooler in Patagonia
Must-See Events: Santiago International Jazz Festival
Hidden Gem: Chiloé Island, known for its mystical folklore, colorful wooden churches, and traditional stilt houses
Travel Tip: Layer clothing for Patagonia’s variable weather

Spain

Why Visit in November:
Spain’s weather remains mild in many regions, especially Andalusia, where fall brings fewer tourists and rich cultural experiences. Enjoy tapas, historic sites, and vibrant festivals without the summer crowds.

Climate: Mild, 12–20°C (54–68°F)
Must-See Events: Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints Day) celebrations
Hidden Gem: Ronda, a dramatic clifftop town with rich Andalusian history
Travel Tip: Explore cities like Seville and Granada for authentic flamenco shows

Portugal

Why Visit in November:
Portugal’s Algarve coast enjoys sunny days and quieter beaches in November, making it an excellent off-season escape. Lisbon offers scenic walks and cultural charm under soft autumn light.

Climate: Mild and pleasant, 15–20°C (59–68°F)
Must-See Events: Lisbon’s Festa de Santo António celebrations
Hidden Gem: Monsaraz, a hilltop medieval village with stunning views and vineyards
Travel Tip: Rent a car to explore the Algarve’s secret coves and villages

France

Why Visit in November:
November is the quiet shoulder season in France, perfect for museum hopping and enjoying wine country’s autumn bounty. The cooler weather adds a romantic mist to Parisian streets.

Climate: Cool and crisp, 7–12°C (45–54°F)
Must-See Events: Beaujolais Nouveau wine release celebrations
Hidden Gem: Colmar in Alsace, with its fairy-tale architecture and early Christmas markets
Travel Tip: Warm up in cozy cafés and explore indoor cultural attractions

Austria

Why Visit in November:
Austria begins its festive season in November with classical concerts and the opening of Christmas markets. Snow might dust the Alps, inviting early winter sports enthusiasts.

Climate: Cool to cold, 2–8°C (36–46°F)
Must-See Events: Vienna’s music concerts and Christmas market openings
Hidden Gem: Hallstatt, a serene lakeside village perfect for winter postcard views
Travel Tip: Layer up and enjoy warming traditional foods like apfelstrudel

Germany

Why Visit in November:
Germany’s towns start gearing up for Christmas markets, creating cozy atmospheres in historic streets. The cool weather invites hearty meals and mulled wine.

Climate: Cool, 3–8°C (37–46°F)
Must-See Events: Early Christmas markets in cities like Nuremberg and Munich
Hidden Gem: Bamberg, a UNESCO town with medieval charm and scenic riverside views
Travel Tip: Try local sausages and glühwein (mulled wine) while exploring

Dubai, UAE

Why Visit in November:
Dubai sheds its scorching summer heat in November, unveiling warm days and cool nights ideal for outdoor activities. From desert safaris to beach days and cultural experiences, it’s a dynamic city to explore.

Climate: Warm, 25–30°C (77–86°F)
Must-See Events: Dubai Fitness Challenge and Dubai Jazz Festival
Hidden Gem: Al Qudra Lakes, a peaceful desert oasis perfect for cycling and birdwatching
Travel Tip: Plan desert excursions during the cooler mornings or evenings

Scandinavia

Why Visit in November:
November marks the start of the Northern Lights season in Scandinavia. The long nights and snowy landscapes create a magical winter atmosphere perfect for aurora chasers and cozy cultural experiences.

Climate: Cold and snowy, often below freezing
Must-See Events: Sami National Day in Finland and Norway’s start of winter festivals
Hidden Gem: Abisko, Sweden—renowned as one of the best spots globally to view the Aurora Borealis
Travel Tip: Dress in thermal layers and book guided Northern Lights tours

November won’t wait, and neither should you!
Connect with our travel specialists to curate your perfect trip.

Why travel in November?

November is a hidden gem in the travel calendar—a sweet spot between the high energy of summer and the festive rush of December. Here’s why it’s one of the smartest and most rewarding months to travel:

Fewer tourists, more authenticity

November falls in the shoulder season in many popular destinations, meaning you’ll experience fewer crowds at major attractions, shorter queues, and a more relaxed atmosphere. This makes it easier to connect with local culture, get better photos, and enjoy the moment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Budget-friendly travel

Flight and hotel prices typically drop after the peak summer and early autumn rush. With lower demand, you’re more likely to find great deals on accommodations, tours, and even business-class upgrades. It’s an ideal time for budget-conscious travelers to enjoy luxury experiences without the high-season price tag.

Stunning fall foliage

In many parts of the world—especially Europe, North America, and East Asia—November offers breathtaking landscapes painted in autumn colors. Think amber forests, golden vineyards, and crisp, photogenic countryside scenes perfect for scenic drives or cozy hikes.

Cultural festivals and events

November is rich in cultural experiences—from Thailand’s glowing Loi Krathong festival and Mexico’s vibrant Day of the Dead to India’s sacred Dev Deepawali and Australia’s Melbourne Cup. These festivals offer deep cultural immersion and unforgettable travel stories.

Mild and pleasant weather

Many tropical and desert regions are more pleasant in November—less humidity, cooler nights, and clear skies. Countries like Vietnam, Morocco, and the UAE offer ideal weather conditions, perfect for both city exploration and outdoor adventure.

A perfect time for nature and wildlife

In regions like South Africa, Chile (Patagonia), and parts of Australia, November marks the beginning of wildlife and adventure seasons. Spot big game, hike dramatic landscapes, or enjoy outdoor safaris before the December rush kicks in.

Great for offbeat and slow travel

Because it’s less crowded and more affordable, November is a great month to explore offbeat destinations, stay longer in one place, or try slow travel. Homestays, rural retreats, and immersive local experiences are easier to access and feel more genuine.

Ideal for digital nomads and remote workers

With cozier café culture returning in cities like Lisbon, Budapest, or Chiang Mai—and fewer tourists hogging the Wi-Fi—November is a great time for digital nomads to blend work and wanderlust.

Pre-holiday recharge

November is the perfect opportunity to take a breather before the busy holiday season. Whether it’s a solo retreat in the mountains or a couple’s beach escape, it’s a chance to recharge before December’s social and family commitments roll in.

Looking to extend your travel planning across the season? Check out our guides to the best countries to visit in September and October for more ideas.

Don’t miss out on November’s best adventures!

The best destinations in November won’t wait forever — and neither should you. From chasing fall foliage in Japan to witnessing the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, or celebrating colorful festivals in Mexico and Morocco, the world is wide open for discovery.

At Flying Squirrel Holidays, we specialize in crafting personalized journeys that reveal the soul of each destination while keeping travel responsible and meaningful. Spaces fill up fast for these exclusive November escapes—don’t let your dream trip slip away.

Reach out today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable November adventure before it’s gone!

Call us at ‪+91 33 40525777‬ / ‪+91 833 697 8737‬

Email us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com