When summer’s glow has faded and spring seems a long way off, November is the perfect time for a reviving European city trip. So which are the best European cities to visit in November? Whether you’re looking for sunshine, culture, food and wine, snowy mountains or a luxury beach break, Europe has plenty of cities that you’ll love to explore. Choose your getaway from this round up of the best places to travel in November in Europe.
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Which are the best European Cities to Visit in November
November can be an excellent month for exploring popular European destinations. It’s a chance to visit the biggest hitting capital cities that are over-crowded in the height of summer, and often over-heating too. But some cities are better than others in November and you need to know in advance what to expect weather-wise.
So here’s a round up of some of the best places to travel in November in Europe. Plus tips on how to decide which are the best cities for you.
Why Visit Europe in November
- This time of year is low season in Europe which can mean lower prices as well as fewer crowds.
- The absence of long lines at attractions helps to make up for cooler weather.
- You’re more likely to find good deals on flights and accommodation than in the summer months.
- It’s a good month to enjoy local culture with fewer tourists around.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fewer crowds, shorter queues | Potential for restricted opening hours |
| Likelihood of good deals on hotels, flights and restaurants | Flights may be reduced, some restaurants can close out of season especially in beach resorts |
| Cooler temperatures can make sightseeing more pleasant than in peak season | Increased chance of rain and/or shorter daylight hours. At beach resorts the sea may be too cold for swimming |
| Autumn festivals, concerts and exhibitions in many cities | Festival time may mean busier flights and hotels |
Tips for Choosing the Best European Cities to Visit in November
I’m a big fan of Europe out of season. And November can be a great month for a city break. Autumn colours linger in city parks whilst cool clear days are perfect for urban exploring, hiking or biking. But what if it rains?
Some of our greatest European cities are wonderful whatever the weather. You weigh the likelihood of rain and cooler temperatures against the freedom you gain from emptier streets and the lack of queues at attractions. I’m thinking obviously here of London, my home city, but also Florence Italy, if you crave world-class culture without the crowds.
But in my experience, smaller cities, or those with predominantly outdoor sights, are just that bit more fun in the summer months when days are mild and dry.
So check you’ll have enough to do if it rains. If you enjoy outdoor activities can you also embrace colder temperatures and maybe downpours? Or would you be better choosing a southern European city with a higher chance of sunny days?
On the other hand, there can be trade offs. An off-season bargain-priced luxury hotel with restaurants, spa and heated pool can do a lot to compensate for a wet weekend! As can a packed city itinerary of galleries, wine tastings, food tours or shopping.
In this selection I’ve picked the European cities that stand out for me. These are my best places to travel in November in Europe either because of their warm temperatures, their sightseeing that isn’t weather dependent or for their unique seasonal experiences.
Weather in Europe in November
Europe’s weather varies enormously from north to south, west to east. Very broadly speaking, in November in northern Europe expect temperatures that can drop to freezing and short days, whilst to the west and east, skies are likely to be grey and temperatures in the single digits centigrade. Southern Europe has the most likelihood of warmer days and blue skies although even here it can be unpredictable.
Hot Places in Europe in November
The Canary Islands and Cyprus top the leader board as the warmest places in November in Europe. Geographically speaking the Canaries, although a part of Spain, actually lie off the coast of Africa. Whilst Cyprus, in the south eastern Mediterranean, is closer to the Middle East than most of Europe. They both offer year-round entertainment and the highest chance of sunny days in November.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Average high and low temperatures in November: 24°C/18°C (75°F/64°F)
- Average hours of sun: 6 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 10 days / 29 mm
- Sea temperature in November 22°C (73°F)
One of the Spanish Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert, ensuring it has year round warmth and very little rain. In fact the position of these volcanic islands, off the coast of Africa, gives them a rather un-European climate.
Gran Canaria is lovely in spring – it’s one of the hottest places in Europe in April – and it has a reputation for having some of the best winters in Europe too. Its beautiful beaches are quieter than in high season and although the sea may be chilly for swimming the island offers plenty of other sporting opportunities. From golf and tennis to surfing and hiking, visitors can get outdoors and make the most of the sunny weather.
Or perhaps you’d rather sip coffee beneath the palm trees on a cobbled street in Vegueta, the historic old town of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria? This lively capital city has cultural finds, boutique hotels and great restaurants – it’s one of Spain’s gastro cities.
The milder winter weather is perfect for road trips too, so hire a car and take a scenic route around the coast. A visit to inland towns like pretty Teror with its traditional wooden balconies, reveal a different side of the island to the brasher south coast beaches. And on your way you could seek out Canarian specialities: wine and coffee from Valle de Agaete and honey rum from Arucas. There’s plenty to do here and it’s one of the warmest places in November in Europe.
Stay in Las Palmas
Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana Boutique hotel in a renovated former mansion in the old town with roof terrace and bar.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hr 30 mins
Paphos Cyprus
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 22°C/13°C (72°F/55°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 7 days/ 66 mm
- Sea temperature in November: 22°C/ 72°F
Frazzling in the heat of the summer, Cyprus is mellow in November, the beginning of its winter season. Expect mild temperatures and blue skies; it’s a pleasant time of year for exploring the island’s cultural treasures, mountain villages and vineyards without the summer crowds.
Cyprus has more of a traditional Mediterranean climate than the Canary Islands, but its position in the eastern Med ensures its summers are long. In 2023 it had higher than usual temperatures in the beginning of November but, in the evenings – and in the mountains! – there’ll be a more autumnal feel.
I’ve visited Cyprus in November and enjoyed the pleasant, jeans-and-tee-shirt weather and some lovely sunsets. Days are short, with the sun setting just before 5 pm on the first of the month. It’s a good place for a coastal break, especially in a luxury hotel at off-season rates.
Paphos is a year-round seaside town, with some stunning cultural sights. The island is the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite and Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its rich history. It’s the perfect time of year for a stroll to the Kato Paphos archeological park to see the ancient ruins of an earlier Paphos and its gorgeous Roman mosaics. The lack of shade can be an issue here in the summer, but not so much in November. Or head into the foothills of the Troodos mountains for wine and cheese tastings in local villages.
Cyprus is a favourite of mine and one of the best places to travel in November in Europe.
Stay in Paphos
Amavi – Made for Two Paphos Enjoy the sea views and sunsets from your room or walk from the hotel to the beach or harbour. Amavi has a heated indoor pool too.
Flying time from London: 4 hrs 35 mins
More Best Places to Travel in November in Europe
From wine tasting and truffle hunting, to Northern Light spotting and thermal bathing, here are lots more suggestions for the best European cities to visit in November.
London UK
- High and low daytime average temperature in November: 10°C /6°C (50°F/43°F)
- Average hours of sun: 2 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 17 days / 63 mm
Speaking as a local, although many of us seek getaways in November, it’s a month when you can actually enjoy London without crowds. Yes the weather can be grey, but how much does that really matter when weighed against the positive advantages of fewer crowds and queues, late autumn colours (at the start of the month) or Christmas lights (at the end)?
This is a great time of year to pick a central London neighbourhood and get to know it like a local. Or revel in the extra elbow room in top attractions like the Tower of London.
Time your visit to include the weekend closest to the 5th of November and you’ll get the chance to celebrate gunpowder, treason and plot! Guy Fawkes Night is a slightly bonkers commemoration of a foiled attempt in 1605 to blow up Parliament and assassinate King James I. Variously known as Plot Night, Bonfire Night or Fireworks Night, it’s marked by big public firework displays in parks on the edges of central London. Whilst the Lord Mayor’s Show, also in early November, is a lovely piece of traditional London pomp and circ*mstance.
And when it rains (it probably will) you’ve a host of indoor choices at your disposal: from grand department stores to theatres, concerts, cafes plus all of London’s free museums. Indoors or out London has plenty to keep you entertained, which is why it’ll always be a contender for best city in Europe to visit in November.
Stay in London
The Montague on the Gardens This 4 star boutique Georgian townhouse with two restaurants, gym and sun rooms gets consistently good reviews. It’s just off Russell Square, close to great transport links and just round the corner from the British Museum.
Reykjavik Iceland
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 5° C/0°C (41°F/32°F)
- Average hours of sun: 1 hr
- Hours of daylight: 8 decreasing to 5 by the end of the month.
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 20 days / 30mm
It may well be cold, wet or cloudy but November is still a great month to visit Iceland. The beginning of the winter season means significantly shorter days but consequently more chance of a sighting of the Northern Lights. Wrap up warm, embrace the chilly vibe and get outside to enjoy some exciting day trips during daylight hours.
Whale and dolphin watching, horse riding and Northern Light hunting are all available from Reykjavik as are helicopter tours of the most recent volcano eruption area.
It goes without saying that a visit to one of Iceland’s famed thermal pools is a must-do. The Blue Lagoon is the standard, although almost too well known these days, whilst the newer Sky Lagoon, close to the city, has an infinity pool with ocean views. Or join the locals at one of Reykjavik’s 18 geothermal public swimming pools.
Stay in Reykjavik
Hotel Borg This Art Deco hotel gets great reviews and is ideally located on Parliament Square.
Flying time from London: 3 hr 10 mins
Budapest Hungary
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 7°C/2°C (45°F/36°F)
- Average hours of sun: 2 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 13 days / 60mm
November is a great time to visit Budapest, the beautiful capital city of Hungary. It may be hot and busy in summertime, and packed with visitors for the Christmas markets in December, but during November you’ll find a moment of calm. This affordable city has some lovely luxury hotels too so you can make the most of shoulder season prices for a luxe break that won’t cost a fortune.
Stroll the streets for uncrowded sightseeing, take in the view from Fisherman’s Bastion and cross the Chain Bridge from Buda to Pest. Then celebrate the cool but not freezing temperatures by taking a plunge in the warm and steamy outdoor thermal baths!
Once you’ve worked up an appetite you can sample traditional Magyar recipes, robust and spicy, that suit November’s cooler temperatures. Then dive into the eccentric, fairy-lit world of the ruin bars.
Should the rain fall, you can visit the Parliament building or Buda Castle and its museums. Then head to Budapest’s magnificent Great Market Hall to browse speciality food stalls and handicrafts.
November is also a good time to learn a little about local culture. The traditional St Martin’s Day Goose Festival and Wine Festival both take place this month, whilst the first of Budapest’s Christmas markets open in the third week. This is a fascinating European city to visit in November.
Stay in Budapest
Corinthia Hotel Budapest In the heart of Budapest the elegant Corinthia has its own Art Deco spa and pool.
Flying time from London: 2 hr 30 mins
Florence Italy
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 15°C /7°C (59°F/45°F)
- Average hours of sun: 5 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 14 days / 102mm
It doesn’t really matter if it rains in Florence, as I discovered in February, as long as you’re happy to while away some hours in the Uffizi. Or indeed in the hallowed halls of Gucci which also graces the Piazza della Signoria.
This is Florence after all, brimming with history and character. And off season you have room to step back and enjoy the dazzling architecture, the sculptures, the fountains and get a glimpse of the city as the locals see it. Away from the tourist hotspots, lunches, coffees and aperitivi are surprisingly affordable too.
Turn your visit into a romantic foodie break, and after soaking up the Renaissance splendours of the city head into the Tuscan countryside where (as in Alba, Piedmont) it’s truffle hunting season. Watch the skills of the truffle hunter and his dog at work and then enjoy the spoils for lunch for a memorable and unique experience. Book ahead for a Truffle Hunting Experience with Lunch in San Miniato
Stay in Florence
Hotel Savoy Friends of mine loved this chic and historic 5-star hotel. And they especially enjoyed an outing with the legendary Guilio, the Truffle Hunter, arranged by the concierge team.
In Piazza della Signoria For a central and characterful nest, you can’t go wrong with this Residenza d’Epoca, tucked away in a corner of the famous Piazza. It’s a home from home for many Florence aficionados. I stayed here this year and would go back anytime. Click here for availability and to book.
Flying time from London: 2 hr 15 mins
Alba Italy
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 11°/5°C (52°F/41°F)
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 6 days / 73mm
The elegant town of Alba in Piedmont, northern Italy is the perfect getaway for food lovers. It lies in the heart of the Langhe wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage protected landscape that produces world class Barolo and Barbaresco wines. Home to no less than 16 Michelin starred restaurants, as well as plenty more affordable choices, Alba is the foodie capital of the region.
In October and November the town is transformed as it hosts the International White Truffle Fair attracting visitors from across the world. Browse the stalls for your own little chunk of Piedmont white gold or splash out on a truffle menu at a city restaurant.
Famous for the luscious combination of chocolate and locally grown hazelnuts known as gianduja, Alba is also birthplace of the Ferrero and Nutella confectionery brands. The chocolate factory is still based in the town, you might catch a waft of cocoa in the air, and you’ll be tempted by chocolate’y treats as you explore the ancient streets and squares.
In November in Alba you can explore the pretty historic centre with its beautiful cathedral and shop for the traditional tastes of Piedmont. Or experience local culture first hand by joining a truffle hunt to watch a skilled truffle hunter and his dog as they search for sought-after white truffles. And of course you can use Alba as a base to explore the wider Langhe Roero Monferrato wine-growing region and its top class producers.
Stay in Alba
Hotel Calissano 4 star hotel with excellent reviews in walking distance of the city center, with a parking garage too.
Flying time from London to Turin: 1 hr 55 mins
Lucerne Switzerland
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 9°C /3°C (48°F/37°F)
- Average hours of sun: 2 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 16 days / 58 mm
- Average number of days with snow: 1
In the heart of Switzerland, an hour’s train ride through beautiful scenery from Zurich airport, Lucerne is the perfect base for an Alpine break. Nestled on the shores of Lake Lucerne with snow- capped mountains in the background, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland.
You can indulge all your Alpine dreams here! Wrap up in cosy hats and scarves to wander the cobblestoned streets of the picturesque Old Town. It’s eminently walkable and the medieval frescoed buildings, turreted city walls, Renaissance churches and covered bridges are a real treat. For more treats, drop into a snug restaurant for a warming Swiss cheese fondue, then follow it up with a visit to one of Lucerne’s famed artisan chocolatiers, try Läderach or Bachmann.
Or plan an Alpine adventure: from Lucerne. You can take a Guided Tour to Mount Titlis to ride the Ice Flyer chair lift, explore the 5000-year-old glacier cave, cross the Cliff Walk suspension bridge or go snow-tubing. Alternatively you can book a hiking or sightseeing tour into the Alps, or even travel to the highest railway station in Europe on the Jungfraujoch Top of Europe Day Trip from Lucerne. If you’re looking for fresh air and fantastic scenery Switzerland is one of the best European countries to visit in November.
Stay in Lucerne
Burgenstock Hotel and Resort If your idea of an Alpine break is all about snow-capped views and stress-soothing massages then Burgenstock, on its glorious perch above Lake Lucerne, is just what you need. Enjoy an all-out luxury stay like this one at Burgenstock resort, or whisk up the mountain in the resort’s own furnicular for a sybaritic session in the day spa.
Flying time from London to Zurich: 1 hr 40 mins
Vienna Austria
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 7°C/2°C (45°F/36°F)
- Average hours of sun: 2 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 14 days / 50mm
- Average number of days with snow: 3
Vienna is one of those cities which still looks good in winter. Maybe it’s the elegant architecture, the warm Belle Epoque cafes, or the smart Austrian loden winter coats worn by locals: Vienna shines even if the weather is less than optimal. And this walkable city with its efficient network of public transportation is perfectly designed for a cold weather visit .
Foodies will love the rich warming Austrian ragouts and strudels, as well as the handfuls of chestnuts roasted on streetside braziers. And you haven’t properly visited Vienna without spending an hour or two in one of its historic cafes with a book, a Viennese coffee and a slice of sachertorte.
Vienna is a cultural hotspot with enough museums, galleries and palaces to fill several rainy days, as well as a busy schedule of autumn concerts and opera in the evenings. We spent 3 days in Vienna in winter and there was plenty to do.
From mid-November the Christmas markets begin to open up, and the famous Viennese Ball season begins in November too. Visitors can even take a class to brush up their waltzes and polkas. With so much to offer Vienna is one of the best places to visit in Europe in November. Alles Walzer!
Stay in Vienna
Hotel König von Ungarn We loved this charming historic hotel in the city centre, with its beautiful internal courtyard. Mozart used to live next door!
Flying time from London: 2 hr 15 mins
Beaujolais France
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in November: 11°C/4°C (52°F/39°F)
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 15 days / 106mm
One for wine lovers, because weather-wise November is not the most propitious month to visit this region of eastern France. It’s likely to be quite rainy. But it is also the month of Beaujolais Nouveau day and an opportunity to enjoy wine tastings in one of France’s premier regions.
The Beaujolais wine region isn’t a city per se. But this is such an appropriate November event that I wanted to include it in this list of best places to travel in November in Europe. Besides, nearby Lyon is often considered the foodie capital of France. All the more reason to plan a November visit.
The third Thursday in November at midnight is the moment that the young Beaujolais wine is uncorked for the first time. This event is marked with parties, fireworks and parades in Beaujeu, the capital of the region, as well as cities round the world. ‘Nouveau’ day fell out of favour a few years ago as the wine became a victim of its own success. But that’s in the past now and this whole wine region deserves a few day’s exploration.
Taste the other top wines from the region like Moulin-à-Vent, Fleurie and Brouilly. Visit the medieval village of Oingt which has great views and restaurants as well as many artisan workshops and galleries. Built in the famed golden stone of the region it’s one of the most beautiful villages in France. While Vaux-en-Beaujolais inspired the comic satirical novel Clochemerle.
Stay in Beaujolais
Chateau de Pizay Set in formal gardens and vineyards, near Beaujeu, this quintessentially French chateau produces its own fine wines and has an award-winning spa too.
Flying time from London to Lyon: 1 hr 40 mins
More European Cities to Visit in November
You may be wondering why I’ve left out several wonderful cities which are also warm places in November in Europe. Here are three favourites, with the reservation that you can never be quite sure about the weather. You may be lucky – you may not!
Rome Italy
It’s one of my favourite cities in the world for epic sights, pizza and ice cream. But Rome’s average rainfall in November is 130 mm across 15 days, probably its wettest month. Temperatures are still mild but many of Rome’s main attractions: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Trevi fountain, are outdoors, and I’d prefer to see them on a dry day.
Barcelona Spain
Beautiful Barcelona has a lower average rainfall than Rome in November. And statistics show that it has less rain in November than in September or October, averaging 43 mm over 5 days. But many of Barcelona’s greatest sights are its fabulous and fun Gaudi buildings, and to really appreciate them means being outdoors. Plus Barcelona is a seaside city: if you have the option then spring or summer is a great time to visit to enjoy the beaches too.
Lisbon Portugal
Lisbon is another gorgeous southern European city, but November is actually its wettest month of the year. Its average rainfall in November is 120 mm over 14 days. This might put a dampener on your plans to explore Lisbon‘s cobblestone streets or the string of lovely beaches that stretch along the Lisbon coastline. On the other hand you might be lucky – or you could save Lisbon for one of the drier months of the year.
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Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
About the authorNancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.
All photos are all rights reserved. Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission
