My top places to visit in November
Wow! I can’t believe we’re in November already! Are we okay to mention the C word yet or is it still a bit early for some of you?!? For many people, Christmas preparations will be starting to ramp up, but for others, it’s a fantastic chance for a pre-Christmas break. Prices are lower. In many places’ temperatures are still warm (or you can embrace the colder weather if that’s your thing). Cities and resorts are also less crowded, perfect for a more relaxing break or exploring top attractions. Whether you fancy a break from the incoming winter weather, or just a holiday to take advantage of quieter destinations, these are my top five places to visit in November.
Malta
First up on my list of places to visit in November is Malta. The island has been gaining popularity as a winter destination over the last couple of years. Many tour operators now offer Malta as a winter sun destination and have increased the number of flights available. Malta can be great for a quick city break, a more relaxing winter beach break…or a combo of the two! The islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate. The temperatures are relatively mild in November compared to other European countries. Average daytime temperatures are around 18-20 degrees, with around 8 hours of sunshine. This makes it perfect for a bit of relaxing or exploring.
If you’re looking for a bit more than a beach break, head to Malta’s capital city, Valletta. The city is a UNESCO-listed site with a majestic fortress, winding streets and 16th-century architecture to explore. The forts were used as the setting for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. This is a must-visit for any GOT fans.
There’s a range of wine bars, restaurants and cafes along the seafront, perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring. If you’re heading out there in November, it could be the perfect chance to pick up a couple of unique Christmas gifts. Malta is renowned for its beautiful gold jewellery. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and authentic travel experience then Malta in November can be the perfect choice.
Lisbon
November is a great time for a weekend break in Lisbon. As many other European cities are shivering, the weather there is usually mild, with temperatures averaging around 18 degrees. There can be a few rain showers though so best to pack a raincoat just in case! The milder weather makes it the perfect time to visit some of Lisbon’s main sights. These include the Jeronimos Monastery and the Sao Jorge Castle.
Lisbon was also recently voted Europe’s most budget-friendly city break for 2023. It’s also ranked up there among Europe’s coolest city break destinations. The city has plenty of affordable restaurants, funky bars, cool pop-up shops and concept stores in the shopping district. Don’t forget the iconic yellow trams. Another must-do is to explore the ‘Shoreditch’ of Lisbon. The neighbourhood of Cais do Sodre has been recently upgraded to include a beautiful waterfront, cool warehouse conversions and a new food market, the Mercado da Ribeira. Think similar to the food markets in Madrid and Barcelona.
Visiting Lisbon in November means you miss the crowds of the summer months. This gives you more opportunities to enjoy everything the city has to offer. If you go to Lisbon you have to try Pastel de Nata or Portuguese Custard Tarts. I absolutely love the ones I’ve had in the UK and they’re not even the authentic ones.
Antigua and Barbuda
Next on my list of places to visit in November is Antigua and Barbuda. Peak tourist season in Antigua and Barbuda runs from December to April. In November, the islands are starting to ramp up for their busy season, but you still beat the crowds. This month is part of the transition from the rainy season to the dry season so there may still be the odd shower. Antigua and Barbuda are famous for their beautiful beaches. With average daily temperatures of 29-30 degrees, it’s the perfect weather to take full advantage of them. There’ll be plenty of opportunities for swimming, diving, snorkelling and sailing.
There are plenty of attractions to explore in Antigua and Barbuda such as Nelson’s Dockyard, Betty’s Hope and Devils Bridge. As November is low season, there are fewer crowds allowing you to explore attractions without the crowds of high season. If you happen to be there on the 1st of November, you may get to experience the Independence Day celebrations. These include cultural events and parades.
Friday nights in Antigua are based around dancing and rum punch, with parties taking place in many resorts and bars. If you fancy something slower-paced, head to one of the island’s white-sand beaches. Or book an eco-tour at the Wallings Nature Reserve, the first-ever community-managed national park. Barbuda is Antigua’s little sister. It has a much more go-slow feel, with just a handful of low-key hotels. If you’re looking for luxury, book a stay at Jumby Bay, a secluded 300-acre island off the north coast of Antigua.
Iceland
Iceland’s name becomes increasingly accurate in November, with its wintry landscapes and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights. It can be very cold with average daytime temperatures ranging from -1 to 4 degrees, not one for the sun worshippers! Be prepared for snow, rain and wind. This might not sound fun to some, but makes the landscape look absolutely beautiful. As long as you’re prepared with plenty of layers and warm and waterproof clothing, you’ll be fine! Visiting geothermal pools or hot springs is a must-do in Iceland, even in the colder weather. They’re a popular way of enjoying the outdoors so don’t forget your swimsuit!
If spotting the Northern Lights is high on your wish list, head away from the main cities for darker skies and more opportunities to spot them. There are plenty of companies offering tours, and snowmobile treks. For something really special, book a stay in a glass-topped domed hut to spend a night under the stars. To increase your chances even further, book a stay somewhere a little more remote such as Deplar Farm.
November is also a great time to visit some of Iceland’s glaciers and ice caves which might not be accessible at other times of the year. The most accessible caves are found in the Southern part of Iceland. Again, there are plenty of companies offering tours. The beautiful Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon is also in the south. You can also try snowmobiling, ice climbing and skiing if the conditions allow. If outdoor pursuits aren’t your thing, head to one of the cities such as Reykjavik. You can spend your days tucked up in cosy cafes, bars and restaurants. Or explore sights such as the National Museum of Iceland, and enjoy everything the cosmopolitan city has to offer.
Las Vegas
It was super tricky to choose my last choice on my list of places to visit in November. I went with Las Vegas as it has been on my travel bucket list for a long time.
If you’re not looking to stick to just Vegas during your trip, and want to get out and see some of the surrounding sights, November is a fantastic time to do this. Although days are long and warm, the sweltering temperatures of the summer are gone. This makes it the perfect time to visit places like the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam. It’s also a great time to take a day trip out to Death Valley which is the hottest and driest place in North America. This can be unpleasant in the summer months. If you were going to go all that way, why wouldn’t you visit some of the most epic places on Earth?
November in Las Vegas is much quieter than in the summer or holiday season. However, if you are there towards the end of November, you might be able to see them setting up for Christmas. Average daytime temperatures hit around 24 degrees. It’s a perfect temperature if you want to spend your days lazing by one of the many hotel pools, or hitting the strip to see the sights.
Places to visit in November Round-Up
There were plenty of other destinations I could have easily included in my list of places to visit in November. European cities such as Athens, sunny short-haul destinations such as Cyprus, or the sunny beaches of Mexico a little further afield. November is a great time to take a break from the incoming UK weather. Or take a city trip to tick some of those Christmas gifts off your list. It can also be a great opportunity to just escape some of the manic build-up if you’re someone who wants to avoid too much Christmas pre-December! There are plenty of warm, sunny destinations if you’re looking to extend the summer a little and enjoy some relaxation. Or hit one of Europe’s more Northern cities if you want to embrace the cold and the winter season. It will definitely get you in the festive mood!
If this article has inspired you to book your own November getaway, fill in my request a quote form here. I’ll do the rest. If you’re still not sure where you’d like to go, or when, like my Facebook page here for some winter travel inspiration. You can also join my travel deals group here, for all of the latest travel tips and deals.
See you over there. Michelle x
