No matter what kind of travel you’re into, November has something to offer you somewhere in the world. Lovers of cool temperatures and snow sports can explore the Northern Hemisphere, while places like Australia and the Caribbean offer plenty of sun if you’re not ready for winter’s chill. Early holiday celebrations also start to pop up in November, which is perfect for those who want festive charm without December crowds. Whether you opt for the souks of Marrakesh or the cozy confines of the Ozarks, we hope you’ll find time for a getaway this November.
Here are 15 of the best places to travel this November.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
In June, I spent two days in Dubrovnik at the end of a cruise along Croatia’s coast. My first view of Dubrovnik was from the sea: its massive city walls set atop rugged limestone cliffs, with the terra-cotta roofs of the town visible above. Later, in the Old Town, I walked along the limestone cobbled streets among Baroque buildings, shops, restaurants, and narrow alleys where there was something to see at every turn. Magical moments included listening to a white-gowned choir of men and women singing in an ornate alcove, their voices echoing while a crowd gathered. An attraction for most tourists is a walk along the top of the 13th-century wall, something I will be sure to do on my next visit. November would be a good time for it, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors than I experienced in June.
Where to Stay: The luxurious Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is set on a cliff overlooking the Adriatic, with a spa, indoor heated pool, and Michelin-recommended restaurant. Hotel More, where I stayed, features five-star boutique style and the Cave Bar, carved from a natural cave. Hotel Excelsior, a former villa built in 1913, offers an indoor pool, spa, and dramatic waterfront views.
Loire Valley, France
A drive of 150 miles or a train ride of a little more than an hour takes you from Paris to the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for vineyards, châteaux, charming villages, and delicious cuisine. “Autumn is a wonderful time to visit the Loire Valley, as the changing leaves are beautiful in contrast with the stark white castles, and you are avoiding major tourism waves from both international and domestic travel,” says Travel + Leisure A-list travel advisor Mark Bonte of French Side Travel. “The castles are a classic to see when visiting this region, often called ‘Garden of France’ by French people,” he says, adding that sampling local wine is another must-do. Bonte also notes, “If you come at the end of the month, the castles present their Christmas decorations — perfect timing for Americans traveling for Thanksgiving and looking to get a head start on the Christmas spirit!”
Where to Stay: Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé, built in 1760, has been exquisitely restored with classical landscaping inspired by the gardens at Versailles. At Loire Valley Lodges, luxury tree houses offer hot tubs and forest views.
St. Barts
By November, hurricane season has passed and peak visitor season is just beginning, making it a great time for a trip to Saint Barthélemy (aka St. Barts). The weather is warm and sunny, beaches are gorgeous, and festive events are on the schedule. The St. Barth Gourmet Festival, Nov. 5-10, brings top chefs for a celebration of local and French cuisine. The Caribbean Rum Awards and Cata Cup sailing regatta will also attract fans. If you happen to tire of relaxing on the beach or lounging beside your hotel pool, there’s plenty to do, from shopping to hiking. Choosing a hotel for your Caribbean vacation might be the most difficult part of the trip, with many stunning properties on the island. Once that “chore” is done, you can look forward to sunny days, delicious food, and island atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa is notable for its wellness center, Le Spa. Rosewood Le Guanahani, Hôtel Barrière Le Carl Gustaf, Le Sereno, and Cheval Blanc St-Barth are more luxury options.
Germany
With many fascinating cities and towns, Germany has much to offer visitors, especially as the year’s end approaches and the country’s famous Christmas markets appear. “In early November, Berlin becomes jazzy,” A-list advisor Sofia Markovich of Sofia’s Travel tells T+L. “For 60 years, jazz musicians from Berlin and all over the world have come together to play at Jazzfest Berlin, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe.” The capital will also celebrate the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall this year on Nov. 9. Munich, too, will be bustling in the late fall. As Markovich says, “The Tollwood Winter Festival returns this November, bigger and brighter than ever before! Full of handicrafts, organic German delicacies, colorful lights, and illuminated artworks, the festival also includes free performances.” In Frankfurt, November is opera season and a pleasant time to wander among historic buildings and quaint shops.
Where to Stay: T+L readers voted for their favorite Berlin hotels in the 2024 World’s Best Awards survey — and the city’s stylish Provocateur Hotel is worth a stay, too. In Frankfurt, stay at Gekko House, an urban boutique with a rooftop lounge and skyline view.
Marrakesh, Morocco
“Early November is still ideal weather in Marrakesh, with average highs in the mid to upper 70s,” says A-list advisor Michael Diamond of Cobblestone Private Travel. “Late November is shoulder season. The busy high season is behind us, and the crowds dissipate.” Clear November skies are perfect for a hot air balloon ride and panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, the desert, and the city. Stroll through the medina, tour Bahia Palace, explore Jemaa el Fna Square, and shop for artisan items at the souks. The Marrakech International Film Festival is planned for Nov. 29-Dec. 7, offering a unique experience for film fans.
Where to Stay: Three Marrakesh hotels were named among T+L readers’ favorite urban properties in North Africa in the 2024 World’s Best Awards. For more options beyond that list, consider the Park Hyatt Marrakech, which opened in July on 19 acres at the base of the Atlas Mountains and comes with a golf course, spa, and kids club, or try the Kasbah Tamadot a bit further away from the city. Nestled in the Atlas Mountains, this property features new three-bedroom riads and luxurious Berber tents.
Argentina
“November is a very nice month to travel to Argentina,” according to A-list advisor Jen Richt. Buenos Aires and Mendoza, she notes, are especially pleasant, with the late-spring climate offering warm days, cool nights, and lots to do outdoors. The Buenos Aires Jazz Festival, Nov. 2-5, and Primavera Sound, Nov. 23-24, are major music events, and polo season begins in November, too. “In Mendoza,” Richt says, “with the end of winter, the snow and ice melt in the Andes, and the rivers become active and inviting for white water rafting and kayaking.” Outdoor adventures like climbing, ziplining, and mountain biking are all possible in November across Mendoza’s rivers, valleys, lakes, and mountains — and, if you’re more of an indoorsy type, hundreds of vineyards offer tours and tastings of the region’s famous Malbec.
Where to Stay: Casa Lucia on Buenos Aires’ stylish Calle Arroyo opened early this year with views of the Rio de la Plata, while, a few blocks away, the Palacio Duhau Park Hyatt Buenos Aires features a spa and five-star amenities. In Mendoza, stay at , a luxury hotel by Argentine winemaker Susana Balbo.
Brisbane, Australia
November is springtime in Brisbane, with temperatures in the 70s and lots to do both indoors and out. Queen’s Wharf, a $3.6 billion development set to open in August, offers luxury hotels, shopping, restaurants, and entertainment, while Bluey’s World — an immersive experience based on characters from the hit TV show Bluey — promises to delight young visitors once it opens on Nov. 7. For the artsier crowd, November is time for the The Long Sunset music festival, featuring Australian artists, yoga, and camping the first weekend of the month at Elysian Fields, a venue one hour south of town. From my own trip to Brisbane a couple of years ago, I can recommend two activities: cruising the Brisbane River and visiting Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where I fed kangaroos and saw koalas.
Where to Stay: The Star Brisbane, a new Queen’s Wharf hotel, opens Aug. 29 on the banks of the Brisbane River, and Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre is a convenient boutique option. On my visit, I stayed at The Westin Brisbane and loved the river view and cozy bedding.
Honolulu, Hawaii
November is shoulder season in Hawaii with smaller crowds (except Thanksgiving week), ideal for a getaway before the busy year-end holidays. The weather is warm and, while you may see a shower or two, there should be more sunshine than clouds. There are plenty of events this time of year, too, from the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (it comes to Oahu Nov. 6-10) to the various surfing competitions that pop up each year to take advantage of the North Shore’s powerful November waves. With fewer visitors around, you’ll be left in relative peace while you snorkel at Hanauma Bay, browse the Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace, visit the Arizona Memorial, or just enjoy local restaurants and relax at the hotel pool.
Where to Stay: We've rounded up some of the best hotels in Honolulu, but new highlights include two properties from the Romer group: the adults-only Romer House Waikīkī and the Romer Waikīkī at The Ambassador. Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa and Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach debuted in early 2024, and there’s the surf-themed Twin Fin and luxurious Prince Waikiki.
San Antonio, Texas
From Dia de los Muertos traditions early in the month to the start of the holiday season with Nov. 29’s Ford Holiday River Parade and river lighting ceremony, San Antonio is festive in November. The San Antonio River Walk is one of the city’s most popular attractions, and it’s even more beautiful during the holidays when the lights glow from sundown to sunrise every day. Touted as the culinary capital of Texas, San Antonio is one of two U.S. cities to be named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The new Pullman Market, set in a vintage glass factory, highlights quality cuisine, and the southwest campus of the Culinary Institute of America is located in San Antonio. Visitors can explore the city’s history, art, and culture, and families can enjoy nearby amusem*nt parks like Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Where to Stay: Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk, steps from the Museum of Art, the historic Alamo, and the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, features a pool deck, rooftop restaurant, and spa. The new InterContinental San Antonio opened Aug. 1 with skyline and river views, a rooftop pool, and stylish rooms, while nearby, the Mokara Hotel & Spa provides another great city center option.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
About 70 miles south of Denver, Colorado Springs is a beautiful November destination, with early winter skiing at some resorts, hiking in the Garden of the Gods, and more. Home of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, the city is the perfect place to continue the excitement of the Paris Summer Olympic Games. History buffs will enjoy the Western Museum of Mining & Industry and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, which reopened in July after a major renovation. The Ford Amphitheater, a $90 million, 8,000-seat concert venue with five rooftop bars, fire pit suites, and upscale dining, made its debut in August, rivaling Denver’s famed Red Rocks. If your early November trip starts in Denver, don’t miss Denver Arts Week, Nov. 1-10.
Where to Stay: The new Mining Exchange Hotel in downtown Colorado Springs began in 1902 as a haven for mining magnates and investors. Completely reimagined, the hotel combines vintage style and modern comfort. If you’re seeking a more established favorite, The Broadmoor offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and activities and has been serving well-heeled visitors for over a century.
Ozark Mountains, Missouri
From colorful autumn foliage until at least mid-month to the twinkling lights of the early holiday season, November is a great time to visit the Ozarks. The chill in the air makes it perfect to be outdoors with a round of golf, and a variety of trails (including several that are wheelchair-friendly) welcome hikers of all levels. Attractions like Silver Dollar City are decked out in their harvest-time finery at the start of the month, and at Big Cedar Lodge, you can get a taste of both pumpkin season and Christmas cheer. The resort hosts the annual Gobble Wobble 5K and offers a special Thanksgiving menu. From Nov. 6 until Dec. 31, there’s “Home for the Holidays,” when the resort becomes a winter wonderland with more than four million twinkling lights, an ice skating rink, baking and craft workshops, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family games.
Where to Stay: Big Cedar Lodge features accommodations from guest rooms to log cabins. Nearby Springfield and Branson also offer a wide range of places to stay.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Visitors to Las Vegas are never at a loss for something fun to do, and with November’s cooler weather comes the return of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Scheduled for Nov. 21-23, this edition of the race is expected to top last year’s event in popularity. Auto enthusiasts will also want to mark their calendars for the annual Concours at Wynn Las Vegas, a car show running from Nov. 1-3. If cars aren’t your thing, there are, of course, plenty of other attractions. From Caesars Entertainment residencies and shows to Cirque du Soleil acrobatics, top-name concerts, and amusem*nt park-style rides, Las Vegas continues to offer entertainment for all. My personal tip is to check out The Sphere — I saw the “Postcards from Earth” film there on my latest visit to this ever-evolving city, and the venue hosts great musical performances, too.
Where to Stay: I recently stayed at two new properties: the elegant Fontainebleau Las Vegas (where I had an exceptional Peking duck at Chyna) and Durango Casino & Resort, a southwest Vegas property that’s home to the fabulous Nicco’s steakhouse. There’s a hotel for every taste and budget here, whether you’re after fine dining, celebrity chefs, a luxe spa, an exciting casino, or a restful suite — check out our list of the best Las Vegas hotels for more inspiration.
Willamette Valley, Oregon
The chill in the air makes November a perfect time to sample the famed pinot noirs of the Willamette Valley’s 700+ wineries. Exploring the outdoors with a hike, searching out historic covered bridges on a road trip, or getting into the holiday spirit at the Silverton Christmas Market are more ways to enjoy late autumn. During November, which is Native American Heritage Month, the Willamette Valley recognizes the Indigenous communities who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The Chachalu Museum and Cultural Center and the University of Oregon’s Museum of Natural and Cultural History are excellent places to learn about this Indigenous Oregon history.
Where to Stay: The Allison Inn & Spa, where I enjoyed an exceptional weekend of wine and music in an art-filled setting a few years ago, will mark its 15-year anniversary with events from Nov. 15-17. A half-hour southwest of that property, the city of McMinnville offers a wide range of lodging, including the Tributary Hotel in a downtown historic building and the hip, 36-room Atticus Hotel.
New York, New York
The Big Apple is the place to warm up to the holiday spirit in November. The air is crisp, and twinkling lights, Christmas trees, candy canes, and traditional decorations appear in parks, corporate lobbies, and on just about every corner. The Bryant Park Winter Village is in full swing, ice skating rinks at Rockefeller Center and Central Park are ready for skaters, and department store windows reveal their holiday decor. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a November tradition, and the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall kick off the Christmas Spectacular (pun intended!) on Nov. 8. There’s always lots to see and do, even before holiday celebrations begin, with museums, Broadway theater, top restaurants, and shopping.
Where to Stay: Virgin Hotels New York topped the list of our readers' favorite hotels in New York City in this year's World's Best Awards. We also have suggestions for the best boutique hotels in NYC.
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Cool, dry weather in the 60s makes November an ideal time to enjoy the outdoors in Albuquerque. Hike in the Sandia Mountains, explore the fascinating Petroglyph National Monument, or enjoy the panoramic views from the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway, which whisks riders up a nearly three-mile journey to the peak. Check out Albuquerque’s 50-mile activity loop, a multi-use trail around the city for cyclists, runners, and walkers, for a unique way to see the city, the mountains, and the Rio Grande Valley. Known for the popular October International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque hosts hot air balloon rides in November as well — and visitors can learn about ballooning at the downtown Balloon Museum. At the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, visitors can learn about the Pueblo culture, dine on Indigenous food, and shop for authentic Native American art, pottery, rugs, and more. Finally, from Nov. 30-Dec. 30, be sure to check out the exciting River of Lights at ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden.
Where to Stay: Hotel Chaco and Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town are located in the city’s historic area, while the new retro-style Imperial Motel is located along Route 66. An hour away in Santa Fe, the luxurious Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection is set in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.