20 Best Places to Travel in November

Written by Anietra Hamper, Shandley McMurray, and Lana Law
Updated Jul 25, 2024

If you love a good deal as much as you love to travel, you'll want to book a trip in November. It's typically a transition month for multiple destinations, so you'll be in for plenty of perks when traveling at this time.

In addition to attractive rates on hotels, airfares, car rentals, and tours, November often means more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists competing for your spot on the beach, in the museum, or at the festival.

While November means the start of the winter season for the Northern Hemisphere, it is one of the best months from a weather standpoint to visit destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, like Australia and New Zealand.

It is also one of the best months for some of the world's most stunning natural experiences, like the northern lights in Iceland. So, while many people hold tight in November gearing up for the holidays, you can take advantage of some of the late-year travel perks that this month has to offer. That said, it's best to avoid traveling over Thanksgiving if you're looking to save some cash.

Plan your next vacation with our list of the best places to travel in November.

Melbourne, Australia

November is one of the best months of the year to visit Melbourne, Australia. It is in the shoulder season, so you will get the best of all things, including cooler temperatures, fewer tourists at the city's top attractions, and lower rates for hotels and airfares.

Springtime in Melbourne means that flowers are in bloom at the Royal Botanic Gardens, and you will have plenty of room at the top tourist attractions like the National Gallery of Victoria and Port Campbell National Park. There are so many fun things to do in Melbourne at this time of year, you really can't go wrong.

Weather in November is about perfect anywhere in the country, so you can easily set up base and take day trips from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and the Mornington Peninsula.

Jericoacoara, Brazil

The main beach in Jericoacoara in November | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Looking to truly get away from it all in November? Then consider a trip to the northeast corner of Brazil to the quaint little beach town of Jericoacoara, or Jeri as most people call it. The weather at this time of year is perfect for soaking up the sun, relaxing on the beach, and kiteboarding.

This town is unique! Backed by endless dunes that you need to drive through in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to reach the town, and fronted by a long crescent-shaped beach, Jeri feels like a desert oasis. The streets are sand and vehicles are not allowed. You can arrange transport and tours in dune buggies to get around and explore the area beyond town.

In Jeri, you can stroll up and down the main roads and narrow alleyways checking out the shops and restaurants. Watch for the resident donkeys who roam freely here. Accommodation is plentiful with a good selection of hotels that run from budget to luxury.

Evening on the sand streets in Jericoacoara | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Jericoacoara has one of the best beaches in South America. Spend the day lounging on the golden sands and swimming in the warm water, then return to the beach in the evening when it transforms for the nightly sunset ritual. Watch the sunset from the beach, a beachside restaurant, or from on top of a dune. The beach comes to life each night with mobile vendors, BBQs, and live music.

Kiteboarders on a beach near Jericoacoara in November | Photo Copyright: Michael Law

November is the best time to visit Jericoacoara if you are a kiteboarder. The winds pick up and the riding along the shoreline north of town and at the nearby lagoons of Guriu and Tatajuba are considered world-class. Grab your friends, jump in a dune buggy, and find kiteboarding Nirvana!

Jamaica

While Jamaica is a lovely place to visit year-round, November offers travelers a chance to beat the high season rush; marvel in wonderful temperatures (the highs are about 89 degrees); and avoid the heavy rains common in May, June, and August through October.

If you're looking for a deal, the best time to visit Jamaica for value is November through mid-December. Top tourist attractions like Negril Cliffs and Negril Beach are better enjoyed with fewer tourists, so you'll garner the best experience visiting during this off-season month.

Speaking of Jamaica's best beaches, November's optimal weather conditions make it easy to appreciate time spent on Montego Bay's Doctor's Cave Beach, Port Antonio's secluded Frenchman's Cove, Ocho Rios Bay Beach, and so many other idyllic sandy spots.

Sedona, Arizona

View over Sedona from a hike near the airport | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

While Sedona, Arizona can be a stifling place to visit in the summer, November brings a great opportunity to soak in the colorful fall in the region along with the comfortable temperatures to enjoy the outdoors for longer periods of time. Sedona is located at an elevation of over 4,300 feet, meaning the temperature here is cooler than the lower desert areas and cities like Phoenix.

Fall is a popular time for tourists to visit the stunning red rocks that Sedona is known for, but November's cooler temperatures mean it can be a great time to explore Red Rock State Park or enjoy some of Sedona's fantastic hiking trails or mountain biking trails. And while Sedona is always pricey, this is a slower time and hotels will likely have more availability.

You'll find a wide variety of stunning places to visit in Sedona, from the city's famous energy vortexes to the interesting Chapel of the Holy Cross or the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park. Stroll Uptown Sedona's eclectic mix of stores or enjoy some time at one of Sedona's spa resorts,

For an all-inclusive experience, you can combine your visit with a stay at one of the area's health and wellness retreats, which make popular getaways in Sedona. You may even be able to snag a deal at one of Sedona's lovely spa resorts.

Maui

Maui's innate beauty and tropical climate make it a must-visit destination year-round. November, in particular, is a stellar time to unpack your bags in this Hawaiian wonderland. Enjoy the shoulder season savings at one of the island's best resorts. Most travelers embark on this natural beauty during summer or between December and February.

November sees lower highs (an average in the high 70s to mid-80s) than the sweltering summer months, but the ocean remains primed for a day of water fun at a not-quite balmy but not frigid 79 degrees.

Enjoy Maui's top tourist attractions, like Haleakala National Park, Maui Ocean Center, and Waianapanapa State Park without inflated prices and throngs of people. If you're a fan of giant sea creatures, the best time to visit Maui for whale watching is from November through May. Book a whale-watching tour to see these magnificent beauties up close.

If you're hoping to surf in November, you're in luck. The winter swells start to roll in at this time of year, especially at Pe'ahi.

New York City, New York

New York City is a fab place to visit at any time of the year, but November presents a sweet spot for tourists who prefer not to melt into the pavement while sightseeing.

It's easy to feel festive during a trip to New York in November. The ice rinks are up and running (and have been since late October), the Radio City Rockettes are performing the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, and the Christmas Markets are selling their wares.

The Union Square Holiday Market begins mid-November (usually around the 17^th), and lasts through Christmas Eve, for those looking to grab a tasty treat or creative gift to celebrate the holiday season.

If you can plan your trip for the end of the month, be sure to hit Central Park West early for a good spot to view the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (held on Thanksgiving, of course). Central Park is a real masterpiece at this time of year, featuring colorful trees and crisp air.

The New York Marathon happens in early November. Whether you're ready to lace up your running shoes or prefer to cheer on athletes from a comfy spot in Central Park, this is one of the best free things to do in New York City.

Mayan Riviera, Mexico

Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mexico City

Be honest, who doesn't want to hit a white sandy beach in November? In Mexico, you're likely to find sunny skies, uncrowded beaches, and a boatload of culture (not to mention tasty food) when visiting at this time.

The Mayan Riviera is one of the top places to visit in Mexico and an affordable getaway destination in November. Whether you decide to grab a deal at an all-inclusive resort and check out the sights around Cancún or soak up the culture and visit the Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá, you're in for a vacation to remember.

Visiting Mexico in November also means you can partake in the Day of the Dead (a.k.a. El Dia de Los Muertos) festivities, if you are there on November 1^st and 2^nd, that is. The festival begins on October 31^st.

As for the weather, you'll be pleased. Highs get up to about 84 degrees Fahrenheit, and the nights drop to a comfortable 68. Hurricane season will be officially behind you, and the rainfall is very minimal.

Paris, France

As one of the most visited cities in the world, finding the best time to visit Paris, France is relative depending on the experience you are looking for. No matter what you hope to do, though, November offers some advantages.

Fall is a great time to visit this city of love, namely because the summer tourists are gone, which means the famously long lines at top attractions have been whittled down to almost nothing. You will also find great rates on hotels and airfares in the fall compared to the summer months.

In exchange for the savings in Euros and the perk of running into fewer tourists, you will need to pack a jacket as you head out to explore the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.

Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are an idyllic place to visit at any time of the year. During November, temperatures hit the low to mid-80s, and at 79 degrees, the ocean is warm enough to enjoy for brief periods without too many goosebumps. At night, you'll want to pack a light sweater to shut out any chill from the 70-degree lows.

While there is a risk of rain at this time, it often falls at night or in short bursts, so it shouldn't ruin any of the fun things you want to do, like visiting the area's top attractions: Aitutaki's stunning lagoon, Tapuaetai (a.k.a. One Foot) Island, or Muri Beach. The rainy season tends to hit between December and March.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

For an unforgettable fall vacation on the Amalfi Coast, which stretches along southern Italy in the Campania region, consider a November departure. The 54-kilometer UNESCO World Heritage Site draws millions of tourists every year. Most come to experience the coastal cliffs and majestic Mediterranean waters in the high summer season.

Far fewer crowds compete for the coastline, and the area's beautiful beaches, in November, when the temperatures have dropped to comfortable daytime levels. Your trip can be split up into several days in several cities, like Positano or Ravello, exploring the most intriguing points of interest. Or, you can base yourselves out of one city and make day trips to visit the sites.

Don't miss out on a boat excursion while you're here. There's nothing like bobbing along on the sea, ogling gorgeous houses and luxury resorts that climb their way up the majestic cliffs.

Belize

There is a small window of perfection when visiting Belize in November. During this window, travelers can escape the summer crowds and enjoy the best attractions in the country before the holiday tourists arrive.

The ideal time to plan your trip to this Central American country is mid-to-late November. You will get great weather and low rates for hotel rooms and local tours. Top things to do at this time of year include visiting the area's spectacular beaches and visiting historic ruins.

Pack your bathing suit and adventurous spirit and enjoy the flexibility on tours to enjoy snorkeling along the barrier reef at the Great Blue Hole. Visit ancient Mayan sites like Lamanai and Altun Ha, and soak up the culture in the nearby Cayo District.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cabo San Lucas is so worthy of a November visit that we've given this special spot its own section. Guests won't swelter on the soft, sandy beaches at this time of year, but the temperatures are still warm (highs are in the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit) and primed for a day spent by the sunny shore.

During November, travelers can enjoy Cabo's top things to do, like watch a sunset from Land's End, check out the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, lounge on Playa Del Amor, and wander through Marina Cabo San Lucas, all without having to jostle the crowds that will bombard this area during winter.

November 20^th is Revolution Day, a Mexican federal holiday. While businesses are closed, expect lots of live music, a parade, fireworks, and great food. When it comes to great deals, you're sure to get one at one of Cabo's best all-inclusive resorts this time of year.

Hudson Valley, New York

Fall colors along a lake in the Hudson Valley

As soon as you catch sight of the Hudson Valley in November, you'll understand why this is one of the best times to visit this breathtaking part of the state. It's at this time of year that the Hudson Valley is at its most spectacular–vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow flank the sides of the sparkling lake, creating postcard-worthy views. And it's a perfect day-trip destination from New York City.

While in the area, don't miss out on the breathtaking views and unique statues at the Storm King Art Center. Also be sure to wander across the Walkway Over the Hudson. It's one of the best things to do in Poughkeepsie.

November is the last month of the well-loved, Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze, a Halloween-inspired event held at Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson. Guests can be wowed by over 7,000 lit jack o'lanterns as they wander the spectacular historic grounds.

Palm Springs, California

A November visit to Palm Springs, California is a nice alternative to the stifling summertime heat. In the fall, temperatures are tolerable for outdoor desert adventures in the Coachella Valley Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park.

There are so many things to do in Palm Springs, from hiking and boutique shopping to outdoor dining and just relaxing by the pool. November is a popular time for conventions in the city, but tourists will be in smaller numbers, making your trip to the mountaintop on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway easy to do.

You will also find nice deals on hotel rooms, especially for weekend stays.

Iceland

Iceland has one great feature going for it in November–the best chance to see the spectacular Northern Lights. You either get lucky and catch the occasional overnight show during the high tourist season in the summer, or you can visit during November in the window when the nights are the longest in the country and guarantee yourself a spectacular sighting.

Pack your winter gear and prepare for a natural spectacle of not just the northern lights but also the Blue Lagoon, volcanoes, waterfalls at the Golden Circle Gullfoss, and glacial treks.

Since November is in the low season, you can get great deals on hotel rooms and airfares. Base yourself out of Reykjavik and take day trips to many of the top destinations on the island.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Iceland

Auckland, New Zealand

November is a shoulder month in Auckland, New Zealand, which makes it a great time to consider a vacation. It is springtime in this famed and fabulous city, so you can expect moderate weather with mostly sunny days, perfect for outdoor excursions to Auckland's best places to visit, like Mount Eden and Cornwall Park.

November is an ideal month for hiking, hitting the beach, biking, and strolling through the parks to enjoy the abundance of flora and fauna unique to this region. Be sure to take the ferry from downtown Auckland over to Devonport for a waterfront stroll and a bite to eat on the pier. See if you can snag a patio spot at The Kestrel.

The additional perk to traveling to Auckland in November is that you will avoid the tourist crowds and the premium rates for hotel and airfare.

Madrid, Spain

The month of November is one of the best times of the year to visit Madrid, Spain. First of all, the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Secondly, tourists have gone home. As a result, hotel rates are lower, and you can experience the city at your own pace.

There are fall festivals to enjoy in Madrid, and without the crowds, you can feel like a local at the El Rastro flea market. You can stroll the gardens at the Buen Retiro Park without the worry of intense summer heat that often makes it tough to enjoy the outdoor attractions.

During the occasional rain, you can hit one of the many indoor attractions in Madrid, like the Prado Museum and the Plaza de Cibeles, which can be tough to see in the high tourist season.

Marrakech, Morocco

If you are looking to take a vacation in Marrakech, Morocco, November is an ideal time to go. At this time, the sweltering summer temperatures have cooled a bit and the large volumes of tourists are gone. There are a number of festivals taking place in November, and with fewer travelers around, you can haggle more easily for cheap prices at the markets for souvenirs.

Hotel rates are rock bottom, too, so you can book your entire vacation for a fraction of what it would cost in the summer season. Plan a few extra days with the savings and enjoy more time exploring the Medina of Marrakesh and the central open-air district of Jemaa El Fna.

While there is so much to see in Marrakech, you can also plan day excursions to the Atlas Mountains, Ourika Valley, and the Sahara Desert.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is the most comfortable Texan city to visit starting in November. During this fall month, the temperatures have cooled off from the oppressive summer heat, and boat rides along the River Walk are enjoyable. Since the city has a number of historical sites and theme parks, it is a popular family vacation destination.

By November, hotel rates have dropped and the tourists are gone, so it is a more pleasant (and cheaper) time to visit. You will enjoy fewer crowds at some of the top must-see attractions in San Antonio, like The Alamo, Brackenridge Park, and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

The other upside to visiting in November is the boost in local festivals that you can enjoy. November is a popular time for conventions, so you will want to plan around that before you book your trip.

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in San Antonio

Bermuda

Hoping to score a discount on a trip to Bermuda? November's a good bet. While this might be the perfect time to catch a golf vacation on the cheap, and you'll encounter fewer tourists in November, be advised that the water is still a bit chilly for swimming. If you didn't plan to swim anyway and just want to soak in the perfect ocean beaches and famous pink sand, then pack your bags.

There are plenty of excursions to enjoy in Bermuda, from the underground Crystal Caves and oceanfront golf courses to the winding old streets in Historic St. George.

You will be able to find great hotel rates in November and, likely, package deals to bundle the activities that you would like to do while you are here. With all the cash you save, you can book a fab tour.