The Best Places to Travel in November

I’ve always loved traveling during the shoulder seasons, but especially the fall. There’s something special about going on a trip in November! It’s a chance to pause and reset before the chaos of the holidays kicks in. It’s the perfect time to recharge, clear out the bad vibes from the year, and wrap things up with new memories, and a renewed mindset.

While most people are busy planning for December or still reminiscing about their summer getaway, I see November as an underrated moment to explore the world. There’s a destination for everyone, from warm-weather escapes to vibrant cities and scenic fall landscapes. These are the best places to travel in November.

Best Places to Vacation in November for Warm Weather

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is one of the best places to travel in November if you’re craving sunshine, coastal energy, and a vibrant city atmosphere. Since it’s nearly summer in the Southern Hemisphere, the weather is perfect for beach days, city walks, and enjoying outdoor attractions of all kinds.

I spent a whole week in Sydney at the end of November, and the city’s energy was infectious. Locals were out enjoying the sun, and I spent some of my afternoons lounging on Bondi Beach and walking the stunning Bondi to Coogee coastal trail. 

Another of my favorite experiences was climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge and taking in panoramic views of the city skyline.

Be sure to visit the renowned Sydney Opera House and explore the vibrant food scene in neighborhoods filled with cute restaurants and charming cafés. You can spend your time sightseeing, surfing, shopping, or relaxing. Sydney truly offers the perfect mix of nature and city life and is one of the best places to vacation in November.

Panama

Panama is one of my favorite countries in Central America and easily one of the best places to travel in November if you’re looking for a tropical vacation and a lot of fun.

Often described as a mini Miami, Panama City is full of life, with its modern skyscrapers, lively nightlife, and fantastic food scene. Spend your days hopping from rooftop to rooftop in Casco Antiguo, sipping cocktails, eating fresh ceviche, and watching the sunset over the ocean.

November is also a great time to enjoy the beaches or explore the country’s rich biodiversity. The rainy season has mostly passed, but the busy tourist crowds haven’t arrived yet, giving you the best of both worlds.

Outside the city, the provinces are just as exciting. You can sip coconut water on a quiet beach, tour cacao and coffee farms in the highlands, or spot exotic wildlife in lush rainforests. Panamanians are warm and welcoming, the energy is contagious, and every corner of Panama offers an unforgettable experience.

Morocco

Morocco is one of the best places to travel in November, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.We spent four unforgettable weeks exploring the country and completely fell in love with it. Marrakech’s souks, the seaside cafés of Essaouira, and the quiet magic of the Sahara Desert made every moment beautiful and meaningful.

November is an ideal time to visit Morocco. The cooler weather is perfect for walking through ancient medinas, visiting mountain villages, or glamping in a desert camp. Temperatures in the desert cool down at night, so be sure to bring warm clothing or book accommodations with heated blankets. 

If you’re looking for a destination that combines adventure, good food, and great local traditions, Morocco is a top choice!

See what else to do in Morocco by reading our Morocco travel guide.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

I still remember my first trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico. It was one of the most fun vacations I’ve ever had. We took our Thanksgiving break and enjoyed sunny days filled with snorkeling adventures and island cruises. The beaches in Puerto Rico are stunning, the food is delicious, and the nightlife lasts well into the night. 

I have a soft spot for Puerto Rico because it reminds me so much of my home country, Cuba. While I truly believe you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit, November stands out as one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm and pleasant, without the intense summer heat or the busy holiday crowds. 

Explore Old San Juan, swim in turquoise Caribbean waters, and enjoy a frozen mojito al fresco every afternoon. It’s the perfect Caribbean island for a quick holiday escape and easily one of the best places to travel in November. 

Plan your perfect trip with our full Puerto Rico itinerary.

Mozambique

One piece of advice we always give our friends, especially those planning a honeymoon or looking for a true adventure, is not to sleep on Mozambique. Although the country may not be as well-known as popular African destinations like South Africa or Morocco, Mozambique is truly one of a kind!

Even for someone born and raised in the Caribbean like me, the beaches in Mozambique are some of the most beautiful I have ever seen. The seafood is absolutely delicious, the locals are friendly, and there is a natural sense of respect that makes every encounter feel easy and comfortable.

Mozambique feels like a hidden gem in a world where overtourism is becoming more common. It is a place where you can slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy the simple things of life. You can go whale watching, take an ocean safari, walk on untouched beaches, and feel like you have it all to yourself.

Start in the Bazaruto Archipelago, but explore beyond. November is the perfect time to visit.

Best Cities to Visit in November

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is one of the best places to travel in November, especially if you’re drawn to vibrant cities. Japan is one of the most captivating and culturally rich countries in the world, where every season tells its own story. While spring is famous for its cherry blossoms, fall in Tokyo feels just as magical. 

In November, Tokyo transforms with bursts of red, orange, and gold as fall foliage takes over parks, gardens, and temple grounds. 

The air is crisp and inviting, perfect for lingering city strolls and wandering through bustling food markets.

Go on a food tour or spend your cozy nights in the city eating grilled fish and steaming bowls of ramen. Since most of us travel a long way to visit Japan, November is also a perfect month to explore destinations beyond the capital. Popular day trips to Mount Fuji, Kyoto, and Hakone are exceptionally breathtaking in the fall, offering some of the most beautiful autumn views in all of Japan.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is one of the best places to travel in November in Europe. The city’s famous Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria offers a feast for the senses, where you can taste fresh, seasonal Catalan produce that truly shines during the fall season. November is also one of my favorite months to explore Catalunya because of its rich flavors and local celebrations around wine and food. 

Beyond Barcelona, the surrounding region is full of charming towns perfect for overnight trips. Explore places like Girona, Poblet, Tarragona, Vilafranca del Penedès, Peralada, and Besalú. Wander through medieval streets, visit the wineries, and take in the stunning coastal views along the Costa Brava. Food lovers shouldn’t miss dining at El Celler de Can Roca, often named one of the best restaurants in the world and run by the Roca brothers.

If you can’t get a reservation at El Celler, their parents’ restaurant, Can Roca, just nearby, serves incredible lunch dishes for under 20 euros. The Roca brothers often eat there themselves, and it’s where they learned their craft. 

Explore our detailed Barcelona itinerary showcasing the top experiences to enjoy in November.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is another one of our top recommendations for the best places to visit in November. We went to Hong Kong last November, and it turned out to be an incredible trip. The weather was great for exploring the city’s bustling streets and nearby islands.

We visited nearby beaches, watched the popular horse races, and enjoyed outdoor activities without the humidity of the summer months.

Don’t miss a sunset cruise on Victoria Harbour, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and watch the lights shimmer across the water. To dive deeper into what to do in Hong Kong, check out our detailed Hong Kong itinerary that highlights the best experiences the city has to offer in November.

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is one of the best places to travel in November, especially for history lovers and adventure seekers. I still can’t believe we had the opportunity to see the pyramids in person. For someone who grew up fascinated by ancient history and old civilizations, it was truly a dream come true. 

Cairo is a city filled with magic and wonder, but it can also be hectic, busy, and incredibly hot for much of the year. That’s why November is the perfect time to visit. The weather is nice, with temperatures around 60-70°F (15-20 °C). The tourist crowds are smaller, and the experience feels more relaxed and immersive. 

Beyond the pyramids, museums, and bazaars, there’s no better way to enjoy Egypt than taking a cruise along the Nile River in the fall. There’s something magical about watching the sunset over the water while a gentle breeze from the Nile moves through your hair. It’s the perfect way to unwind and soak in the beauty of the country.

Find out the best places to visit in Egypt in November with our detailed Egypt Guide.

Lisbon, Portugal

This sun-drenched capital of Portugal is a year-round gem, but November brings cooler temperatures and a more relaxed pace, making it ideal for slow, meaningful travel. That’s exactly why we added it to our list of the best places to travel in November.

We spent over a month in Portugal and fell in love with Lisbon’s food scene, weekend flea markets, and the easy access to nearby beach towns like Cascais and Costa da Caparica. 

Start your day with a pingado, a Portuguese espresso with a splash of milk, and watch the sunrise from one of Lisbon’s iconic miradouros, where locals and travelers gather to see the city from above.

November is also the perfect time for ocean-view walks and slow strolls through cobbled streets and tiled alleyways. After a day of sightseeing, there is nothing better than sitting down to a warm plate of arroz de polvo, a comforting octopus rice dish, paired with a crisp glass of vinho verde.

Follow our in-depth Lisbon itinerary for all the must-see attractions and activities in November.

Best Places to Travel in November in the US

California

Over the last three years, we’ve traveled to California several times in November. We took scenic road trips that included visits to Joshua Tree National Park and drove down the Big Sur coastline.

Every time, the days were beautiful, sunny enough to bring a smile to our faces, but not too hot to spend time outdoors exploring. Traffic was light, which is always a bonus in California, and nature was incredibly kind to us. This is truly one of our top recommendations for the best places to travel in November in the US.

November is also the perfect time of year for packing impromptu picnics with fresh bread and cheese from local shops, getting lost on small side roads, and enjoying your meal while watching everyday life unfold. Stop by vintage stores and charming old shops full of character, or visit one of the picturesque nearby towns to explore. Visiting Ojai in November is definitely on our future bucket list!

No matter where you choose to go, California offers the perfect escape during this time of year.

New York City

New York City is undeniably one of the best places to travel in November, especially for those who love vibrant city energy mixed with seasonal charm. Having lived in the city for years, fall is one of the most beautiful times to explore New York. The parks are filled with colorful autumn leaves, the temperatures are mild during the shoulder season, and the city starts to sparkle as it prepares for the holiday season.

November is a great time to experience New York’s famous holiday decorations, festive window displays, and the iconic ice skating rinks, all without the overwhelming holiday crowds or high prices of December. Among the must-do things this season are strolling through Central Park and catching a Rockettes show! Check out our detailed New York City itinerary designed to help you make the most of your visit.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is another favorite on our list of the best places to travel in November in the US, when the temperatures are mild enough to dance all night to the soulful sounds of jazz on Frenchmen Street.

November is also perfect for enjoying breakfast or brunch on the patio of Brennan’s, one of the best restaurants in New Orleans. If the night air turns chilly, warm up with a creamy, milky cocktail and some delicious oysters at one of the city’s fun restaurants. We recommend Seaworthy, Salon Salon and of course the iconic French 75 Bar.

It is also American football season in the US, and no one does game day quite like New Orleans. If you happen to be in town when the Saints are playing, grab some cheap last-minute tickets and experience the electric atmosphere firsthand, even if you’re not a football fan.

Looking for more fun things to do in New Orleans? We have a New Orleans guide.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is one of the best places to travel in November for outdoor lovers who want to enjoy beautiful hikes without the extreme heat or cold.

Summers in Arizona can be very hot, while winter months can get surprisingly chilly. November strikes the perfect balance with comfortable temperatures that make exploring Sedona’s stunning red rock landscapes truly enjoyable. The crisp fall air and the vibrant colors of the desert make walking through the trails truly enjoyable.

Don’t miss a hike on the Cathedral Rock or book a wine tour or outdoor dining experience!

Marco Island, Florida

Marco Island is one of the best places to travel in November in the US, if you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway with a dose of sunshine and serenity. 

We love a Florida vacation once the temperatures start to drop up north, and while Miami is always a fun getaway, especially for a Cuban like myself, Marco Island offers something more peaceful and restorative. 

Located on Florida’s southwest coast, it’s the perfect spot for a wellness-focused escape. You can absolutely find places to party, but I personally love spending peaceful days by the beach, enjoying light, refreshing meals, and heading to Naples for shopping and soaking up the local vibe.

November is the beginning of the dry season. The weather is warm and breezy, but not scorching, and the heavy wave of winter tourists hasn’t arrived yet, making it an ideal window for a calm, sun-soaked escape.

Why These Are the Best Travel Destinations in November

What I’ve loved most about traveling in November is how it slows everything down in the best way. Without the summer crowds or the rush of the holidays, you get to experience places more deeply. One day you might be watching the sunset in the Sahara Desert, the next you are sipping vinho verde by the sea in Portugal. Each destination brings something unique, but they all share that quiet magic that makes November a beautiful time to travel.

From warm beaches and vibrant cities to golden fall landscapes, we hope you like our list of the best places to travel in November.

Remember, the best trips are not always about landmarks or big itineraries. Sometimes it is the small moments that stay with you like the scent of roasted chestnuts, a rooftop cocktail at golden hour, or a peaceful walk through a quiet plaza.

If this guide helped you plan your November travels, be sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can come back to it later. And if you would like to travel with us more often, subscribe to our mailing list and join a community of travelers, friends, and explorers. You will be the first to hear about new guides and upcoming adventures.

Have you visited any of the best places to go in November? Share your tips with us in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!

Sending you sunshine, good energy, and lots of travel,

Besitos from NYC,

Laura

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