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November may not be the most obvious month to travel – but as the days grow long and dark, it’s the ideal time to escape the UK’s dull skies. Plus, while prices tend to surge around the festive season, costs usually remain low in November, so you can often find good travel deals. There’s plenty of variety, too, from exotic escapes to European jaunts.
So, whether you’re seeking a last dose of sunshine before winter draws in, dreaming of a cultural excursion, or are just looking to explore an exciting new place before the year is up, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 10 of the best travel destinations to visit in November.
1. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Spain’s Canary Islands offer short-haul, year-round sunshine. But if you’re looking for peace and relaxation as well as warmth and blue skies, Lanzarote – the closest Canary Island to us – is a wise choice. It’s the driest Canary Island, and some parts, like Timanfaya National Park, are so arid and alien that you’ll almost feel like you’re on Mars.
But there’s plenty of life and nature to be found here, too. You can hike and spot rare birds in Chinijo National Park, visit the idyllic, unspoilt island of La Graciosa, and stroll through gorgeous cactus gardens. Lanzarote’s dramatic white and black sand beaches are also perfect for kicking back on, and with temperatures hovering in the low 20s, it’s warm enough to catch some rays.
For more inspiration, check out our article: 7 of the best things to see and do in the Canary Islands.
2. Kerala, India
If you’re looking to travel further afield, why not head to Kerala, Southern India’s most blissfully beautiful state? November marks the end of the monsoons and the start of the dry season, and with highs of around 30°C, it isn’t yet unbearably hot. This part of India is worlds away from the frenetic action and energy found elsewhere in the country, so if you’re looking for peace, you’ll find it here.
Kerala is known for its palm-fringed lakes, dreamy lagoons, and 370 miles of glorious coastline. There are many ways to explore – from pootling around the glistening backwaters in a boat to hiring a motorbike to discover secret, sandy beaches. The breeze carries the scent of Keralan curries and Ayurvedic oils, and the locals enjoy a slow pace of life. This is India at its most relaxed.
If you’re dreaming of a trip to this country, our article, 11 remarkable things to see and do in India, will hopefully give you some ideas.
3. Athens, Greece
If you’re interested in culture and history, and seeking a European city break without the crowds, Athens is an ideal destination in November. The stifling summer temperatures have dropped to the pleasant high teens, and the often overwhelming crowds have left. While it might not be hot enough to hit the beach, it’s the perfect temperature to explore this ancient city.
If you’re in town in early November, you can catch the Athens marathon, which dates back 2,500 years, making it the oldest in the world. Without throngs of tourists or oppressive heat, the ancient Acropolis and Parthenon are a joy to explore. And, be sure to leave time to discover the city’s exciting youth culture. From quirky bars to cool galleries and innovative restaurants, there’s more to Athens than meets the eye.
4. Japan
With its famous flurry of pink and white cherry blossoms, spring in Japan gets a lot of attention – but autumn is just as impressive. In November, trees all around this country blaze in vivid red and orange hues, and there are so many destinations where you can marvel at the vibrant waves of colour – as well as immerse yourself in Japan’s fascinating culture, history, and culinary traditions.
In the capital, Tokyo, you can admire the futuristic architecture, visit galleries and museums, and enjoy the world-class dining scene. In Kyoto, the historical heart of the country, you can relax in Zen gardens as crimson-coloured maple leaves drift to the ground. And, in Osaka, the culinary capital, you can feast on delicious local delicacies before heading to Minoo Falls to be awed by the fiery foliage.
Learn more in our article: 10 places to visit and things to do in Japan.
5. Buenos Aires, Argentina
November might mean late autumn in the northern hemisphere – and perhaps even the arrival of early winter – but, in the south, it’s peak spring. The Argentine capital Buenos Aires, has a way of leaving its mark on you no matter the time of year. But, in November, when the leafy streets are blanketed with purple blossoms, the city seems more alive and beautiful than ever.
If you’re into jazz, you might like to check out the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival – but, even away from the celebrations, you don’t have to go far to stumble upon world-class musicians or dancers performing in the street. La Boca, with its colourful houses, is ideal for a lazy afternoon stroll, while, in the evening, the pretty Palermo district is perfect for dining – and sampling delicious local red wine.
6. Iceland
For something completely different, but no less dynamic, you might like to head to Iceland in November. The days may be darker than in the UK, and considerably colder, but what it lacks in temperature it makes up for in beauty. Iceland is one of the world’s most otherworldly travel destinations, and November’s long nights mean you have a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights.
But catching a glimpse of nature’s greatest light show is just part of the appeal of a November visit. The icy conditions during this month make the country’s most dazzling natural attractions even more impressive. Explore glittering ice caves and milky blue lagoons, hike over lava-strewn landscapes and past glacier-capped peaks – then warm up in the bubbling hot springs.
7. Egypt
If you’re fascinated by the ancient Egyptians and have always dreamed of exploring the mysterious pyramids, why not tick it off your bucket list and book a trip for November? Summers here are often scorchingly hot (with average temperatures hovering above 40°C), but Egypt in November marks the arrival of winter. You can expect temperatures of around 25°C – akin to a decent UK summer.
Exploring the capital, Cairo, is a far more pleasant experience when it’s not boiling, and the medieval mosques, excellent museums, and maze-like bazaars are worth at least a few days. The Pyramids of Giza are just a half-hour drive away, and the powerful sense of history and wonder that hangs in the air here is remarkable. If you’re looking to get away from it all, a felucca boat trip down the Nile is ideal.
8. Lisbon, Portugal
Another excellent destination for a European city break is Lisbon. While much of mainland Europe is becoming cold and dark in November, Portugal remains an exception with the average temperature hovering just under 20°C. But it isn’t just the balmy weather that makes Lisbon an alluring destination. As one of Europe’s coolest cities, it has old, cobbled streets that are packed with culture and history.
If you’re a foodie, you’ll be in your element. One of the best ways to explore Lisbon is to taste your way around the city, strolling around the bustling food markets, tucking into pastel de nata custard tarts in cute cafes, and trying authentic Portuguese small plates – petiscos – in the many trendy yet affordable restaurants. In the evening, the buzzing bars are the perfect spot for sampling local wines.
Check out our article, 10 of the best things to do in Lisbon, for more inspiration and ideas.
9. Nepal
If you’re a keen hiker and you’d like to trek through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, Nepal might be the destination for you. While the Himalayas may be synonymous with soaring, snow-capped peaks and icy conditions, there’s a milder side to these mountains. And November is the best time to explore: it’s not too hot (23°C) or too cold, the skies are clear, and the trails are quiet.
Most of us won’t be attempting to scale Everest, but the views from the Annapurna Circuit are just as breathtaking. You can hike past awe-inspiring glaciers, over rolling lowland pastures and idyllic forests, through remote mountain villages, and get a chance to immerse yourself in Nepali culture. Afterwards, treat yourself to the sensational street food in the capital, Kathmandu.
10. Andalucia, Spain
Southern Spain, like Portugal, is one of the few places in mainland Europe to still be warm and sunny in November – so if you’d like to soak up the last of the Mediterranean sun, why not head to Andalucia? At this time of year, expect highs of 20°C – and because the holiday crowds have all but gone, you’ll see another side to this often densely populated pocket of Spain.
If you’re looking to explore a city and soak up some culture during your holiday, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Seville, Granada, Córdoba, and Antequera all ooze charm, and the whitewashed buildings, elaborate architecture, tasty tapas, and exhilarating flamenco bars will keep you occupied for days. Plus, Malaga, on the coast, might be known for its beaches, but it’s also a world-renowned art hub.
Final thoughts…
November may not be the most popular month to travel, but it’s a great time to escape the increasingly gloomy UK.
Several spots in Europe are still basking in sunshine – and, as a bonus, with the summer crowds gone, you can see these places in a new light.
If you’re looking to travel further afield, the scenery in Japan and Nepal is at its most beautiful, and the colourful streets of Buenos Aires hum with life. If you’re looking for sun, sea, and sand, Kerala promises a chilled beach holiday with a difference.
Culture and history fans might like to visit Athens or Cairo to make the most of the cooler temperatures and lack of crowds. Or, for something completely different, why not head into the wilderness in Iceland and see if you can catch the Northern Lights?
For more travel inspiration, head over to our travel section, where you’ll find everything from long-haul to solo travel tips. Or you can browse thousands of holiday deals on our website below.
Have you been to any of these destinations? Or do you have other recommendations for places to visit in autumn? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
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