As the leaves transform into a tapestry of golden hues and the crisp chill of fall fills the air, Europe transforms into a captivating playground in November. Whether you want to hold onto the last warmth of summer or get a head start on the festive season, Europe is an incredible place to explore at this time of year.

The best places to travel in Europe in November offer a unique charm all their own, with fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and a dazzling backdrop of fall foliage. From the snow-dusted peaks of the Alps to the historic streets of ancient cities, Europe beckons you to savor its beauty during one of the most stunning seasons of the year.

To help you put together the most incredible fall trip, we’ve created a list of the best places to visit in Europe in November. These spectacular destinations invite you to immerse yourself in rich culture, discover unprecedented culinary delights, and be awe-struck by breathtaking landscapes. From enchanting medieval cities and achingly beautiful beaches to centuries-old market towns and otherworldly national parks, you’re sure to find your perfect getaway here! 

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The 15 Best Places to Travel in Europe in November

1. Dubrovnik, Croatia

When it comes to fascinating cities that are just begging to be explored, Dubrovnik is one of the best places to visit in Europe in November. This month is considered to be the off-peak season, which means there’ll be fewer visitors than during the bustling summer months. But the weather is still relatively mild at around 50°F to 63°F (10°C to 17°C), creating the perfect conditions for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. 

Although it’s likely too cold for a day at the beach, you can still enjoy the city’s stunning coastline and wander around the harbor. For the best sea views, step back in time and walk along Dubrovnik’s medieval walls. From up here, you’ll be treated to incredible panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. 

If the weather gets a little too chilly for you, pop into one of the many cafes in Old Town. Dubrovnik has a thriving cafe scene, with locals spending literally hours sipping coffee and chatting. 

Cogito Coffee Shop is one of our favorites. Although there’s only a small number of benches outside, the coffee here is too good to pass up!

2. Zante, Greece

With an average temperature ranging between 59°F and 68°F (15°C and 20°C), the island of Zante may be just warm enough for a dip in the ocean at this time of year. If you don’t mind a little chill (or better still, you wear a wetsuit), you can head over to Navagio Beach and snorkel or scuba dive around an ancient shipwreck.

This beach is one of the most popular attractions in Zante. But since November falls within the quiet season, you won’t have to share it with hordes of other visitors. 

You can only reach the beach by boat, so the best way to get there is to sign up for a guided tour. This adventure gives you the chance to snorkel around the shipwreck as well as go swimming in the Blue Caves, another one of Zante’s spectacular attractions.

November is also an excellent time to take advantage of the cooler weather and go hiking. The trail that takes you to the top of Mount Skopos is one of the best. It’s around 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) long, depending on the exact starting point, and takes you past the charming Church of Panagia Skopiotissa and through aromatic pine forests.

3. Nice, France

Centrally located in the heart of Nice, Marche Aux Fleurs is a wonderful place to go shopping in November. This lively market is open every day of the week (except Mondays) and sells a huge range of plants and freshly cut flowers. But that’s not all.

A wonderful place to pick up a souvenir or gifts for friends and family back home, the bustling market is also home to artists selling paintings and jewelry and farmers selling artisan goods like lavender honey and seasonal marmalades. 

The iconic Promenade des Anglais that lines the Mediterranean Sea is usually one of the busiest parts of Nice. But in November, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade and dip your toes in the water without fighting for space. 

If the weather takes a turn for the worse, you can explore Nice’s many museums, galleries, and indoor attractions. The Marc Chagall National Museum and the Matisse Museum are two of the best!

4. Plitvice National Park

Hvar is one of the best places to go in Europe in November if you’re planning on spending a lot of time outdoors. This captivating city remains lush and green at this time of year, thanks to the cooler weather and occasional rainfall. The landscapes are dazzlingly vibrant, making November a great time for nature walks, hikes, and exploring the island’s scenic beauty.

The Plitvice National Park is one place you should definitely explore in November. It’s famous for its 16 interconnected, crystal-clear lakes that tumble into one another through a series of waterfalls. These stunning lakes and waterfalls are created by the natural deposition of limestone, which results in constantly changing rock formations.

You can spot all kinds of plant and animal species here. During your visit, be on the lookout for everything from beech and fir forests to deer, bears, wolves, and a huge number of different bird species.

5. Rock of Gibraltar

Like many places in Europe, November is considered to be the shoulder season in Gibraltar. With fewer tourists compared to the summer months, you’re free to explore the historic attractions, golden beaches, and tourist landmarks without the hassle of crowds.

Visiting the famous Rock of Gibraltar is an absolute must during your vacation. In November, the temperatures are around 61°F to 68°F (16°C to 20°C), making them perfect for hiking to the top. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and even catch a glimpse of North Africa across the Strait of Gibraltar.

For many people, the highlight of the Rock of Gibraltar is the Barbary macaques that live there. This is the only wild monkey population in Europe, made up of around 200 to 300 adult and infant macaques. 

Want to see even more local wildlife? Sign up for a boat trip through the Strait of Gibraltar. On this 90-minute adventure, you’re almost certain to see up to three species of dolphin that call this part of the ocean their home.

6. Sardinia, Italy

There are loads of amazing fall festivals celebrated all over the place in Europe at this time of year, and the Autunno in Barbagia Festival is one of the most spectacular. This one-of-a-kind, culturally rich event takes place in various towns and villages throughout the Barbagia region of Italy during the weekends of October and November.

Each town and village has its own unique program of events, which changes every year. Orgosolo, Oliena, Dorgali, and Mamoiada are known for their reliably amazing event line-ups, so you should definitely check them out if you’re nearby.

The festival as a whole showcases the traditions, crafts, music, and gastronomy of this rugged and beautiful area in the heart of Sardinia. Here, you’ll have the chance to buy handwoven textiles, witness traditional Sardinian singing and dancing, try all kinds of local gourmet specialties, and see original artwork created by local artists. Some villages even organize guided tours through the most important cultural and historic sites.

7. Budva, Montenegro

Budva, a charming coastal town in glamorous Montenegro, is one of the best places to travel in Europe in November if you want to soak up the last of the summer sunshine. Although November is at the end of the fall season, this peaceful town still enjoys mild temperatures of around 59°F to 68°F (15°C to 20°C). When the air is still and the sun is shining, these pleasant temperatures can feel blissfully warm.

If you’re dreaming of lazy beach days, head to one of the town’s many spectacular beaches. Slovenska Beach is one of the most popular, although it will be wonderfully peaceful in November when there are hardly any tourists around. This beach is located next to the Old Town and is lined by beachfront cafes and restaurants.

For something a little more remote, check out Mogren Beach. Just a short walk away from Old Town through a tunnel, this gorgeous bay is nestled between cliffs and is known for its dramatic setting and crystal-clear waters.

8. Tenerife, Canary Islands

With average temperatures of 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), the Canary Islands are the warmest European vacation destination in November. This makes them an excellent choice if you’re seeking some guaranteed sunshine!

Tenerife is the archipelago’s most developed island, home to a number of golden sandy beaches made with sand imported from the Sahara Desert. Hidden away from the tourist resorts of the south, Playa Las Teresitas is the most stunning and stretches on for around one mile (1.6 kilometers).

If you’d prefer something more natural, there are plenty of volcanic beaches, too. Playa de Benijo on the northern coast and Playa de El Bollullo, close to Puerto de la Cruz, are two of our favorites!

Tenerife has a lot more to offer than pretty beaches. For a unique experience, head inland to the Mount Teide National Park and hike to the top of the volcano. 

If you’re not up for multiple hours of hiking, you can ride the cable car almost to the peak and walk the rest of the way. When you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sensational views that stretch across Tenerife and all the way to other Canary Islands.

9. Berat, Albania

For a cultural experience, make plans to visit Berat in Albania. Every year on November 28, this riverside city comes to life with Albania’s Independence Day celebrations. Festivities often begin with the raising of the Albanian flag, followed by a lively parade with locals dressed in traditional Albanian clothing marching through the streets accompanied by traditional music.

People come out in huge numbers to watch the parade, all waving Albanian flags. The evening is filled with live music concerts performed by famous Albanian musicians as well as international artists. The next day is all about culture, and a number of museums, cinemas, galleries, and theaters offer free entry to visitors so they can discover more about Albania and the country’s customs.

Albanian Independence Day isn’t the only reason to visit Berat at this time of year. November brings the fall season to the city, and the surrounding landscapes, including the Osum River Valley and the Berat Castle Hill, are adorned with beautiful autumn foliage. The scenery is particularly stunning, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography and leisurely strolls.

10. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the best places to go in Europe in November when it comes to food and drink. A foodie’s dream come true, this Italian island celebrates the Saint Martin Festival on November 11 each year with all kinds of delicious events.

Wine is the centerpiece of the festival. Local wineries and vineyards often open their doors to visitors, offering wine tastings of their newly produced wine, including the young and fresh “novello” wine. This is a light, fruity wine that is not aged for long and is meant to be consumed shortly after fermentation.

The Saint Martin Festival also typically features an array of traditional Sicilian dishes and street food for hungry visitors to try. Seek out food stalls and kiosks for the opportunity to try local delicacies, such as arancini (rice balls), panelle (chickpea fritters), and a huge range of different pasta dishes.

As well as the food and wine aspects, the festival also includes colorful parades, live music, folk dances, artisan markets, and grape harvest rituals.

11. Kyrenia, Cyprus

For the chance to visit a fairytale destination, head straight for the castle in Kyrenia on the northern coast of Cyprus. Also known as Girne Castle, this historic fortress is one of the island’s most iconic and well-preserved landmarks, offering a fascinating insight into Cyprus’s long and varied history.

As November is one of the quietest times of the year for Kyrenia, you’ll practically have the whole castle to yourself! This means you’ll get loads of amazing shots of the castle’s inner and outer walls, towers, and chambers without strangers in them. 

The castle’s prestigious elevated location also means it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor and the coastline. Make sure you take the time to check them out! 

Not only is November an excellent time to explore attractions that are usually packed with visitors, but it’s also a wonderful opportunity to sample local dishes and ingredients. This month marks the olive harvest season in Cyprus, and you can savor freshly pressed olive oil and traditional Cypriot dishes featuring seasonal ingredients!

12. Monte Carlo, Monaco

If you’re planning on traveling in the second half of November, you’re just in time for the Jazz Festival in Monte Carlo. This cultural extravaganza has been celebrated for decades and features world-renowned jazz musicians and performers from all over the world taking to the stage to show off their incredible skills. 

The festival usually takes place at the iconic Opera Garnier Monte-Carlo, an opulent and historic venue known for its stunning architecture and acoustics. This ornate opera house provides an elegant setting for the musical performances.

While jazz is at the heart of the festival, the program often includes a wide range of jazz styles and influences, from traditional and smooth jazz to fusion and experimental jazz. So whether you’re a huge jazz fan or you don’t really know much about it, you’re sure to come across a performance you absolutely love. 

When you’ve had your fill of jazz, discover the rest that Monte Carlo has to offer. Consider trying your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino, wandering through the stunning Japanese Gardens, and visiting the historic district of Monaco-Ville.

13. Menton, France

If you’re dreaming of dining al fresco, being surrounded by architectural gems, and enjoying the serenity of beautiful botanical gardens, Menton is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Europe in November. 

At this time of year, the temperature ranges between 57°F and 66°F (14°C and 19°C), which can be wonderful when the sun is shining and the air is still. Menton enjoys a fabulous location on the Côte D’Azur of France – one of the most stunning and sophisticated parts of the country. With multi-colored buildings perched over the sea, a snow-dusted mountain backdrop, and a chic harbor filled with luxury boats, this part of the country is alluring all year round.

Menton’s dazzling Boulevard de Garavan, which lines the coastline, is dotted with sensational Mediterranean restaurants. There’s nothing like digging into freshly caught fish and sipping French wine while watching the sunset. 

While Menton’s waterfront promenade may be the main attraction, the city boasts a wealth of architecturally stunning landmarks steeped in history. Check out the magnificent baroque Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, adorned with 17th-century art. And make sure you pay a visit to the tranquil Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden, which is home to stunning plants and flowers, even in November.

14. Porto, Portugal

Watching the sunset from the Luís I Bridge in Porto is a magical experience that captures the essence of this elegant city along the Douro River. As the day draws to a close and the sun begins its descent, the Luís I Bridge becomes one of the best places in the city for witnessing nature’s breathtaking spectacle.

From its lofty location, the bridge offers a panoramic view of the city’s enchanting skyline. Here, you can see the historic Ribeira district and its labyrinth of colorful buildings that reflect the warm hues of the setting sun. The river itself shimmers in golden and orange tones as it winds its way through the city.

After sunset, continue your evening with a stroll along the Ribeira waterfront and seek out somewhere for dinner. Terreirinho Restaurant is one of our favorites. 

Located just one street back from the river, this sensational restaurant boasts an amazing decor with stone walls, timber ceilings, and fine wooden staircases. You can choose from a huge range of Portuguese small plates to nibble and share.

15. The Azores, Portugal

During the summer months, the Poca da Na Dona Beija hot springs are filled with a huge number of locals and visitors, all eager to soak in the therapeutic mineral waters. By November, the crowds have significantly thinned, meaning you can enjoy all the healing benefits of the water without the crowds.

Poca da Dona Beija is made up of a series of natural thermal pools, each with its own unique temperature and mineral composition. The warm water in these pools comes from underground volcanic springs and is renowned for its therapeutic properties. As well as the mineral pools, the natural site features a number of small waterfalls, and the sound of flowing water adds to the ambiance and relaxation.

When you’re surrounded by towering palm trees and tropical flowers, you’ll feel more like you’re on an exotic Caribbean island instead of a peaceful island in the Azores!

There you have it! The 15 best places to visit in Europe in November. What’s your favorite European destination to travel to in November?

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