Introduction
November might be overlooked as a prime travel month, but savvy travelers know it’s actually one of the best times to explore the world. Situated perfectly between the busy summer season and holiday rush, November offers a sweet spot of lower prices, fewer crowds, and diverse climate options across the globe.
The shoulder season advantage can’t be overstated—flights that cost a fortune in summer often drop significantly, hotels slash their rates to fill rooms, and popular attractions become blissfully manageable without the crushing crowds. Whether you’re seeking autumn colors, early winter adventures, or escaping to summer in the Southern Hemisphere, November delivers exceptional travel value.
Tips to Save on Travel in November
Booking Cheap Flights: When and How
The ideal booking window for November flights is typically 1-3 months in advance. Set price alerts on platforms like Aviasales, Google Flights, or Skyscanner to monitor fare drops. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday and Wednesday flights are often cheapest) and be flexible with your dates—even shifting your trip by a day or two can result in significant savings. Many destinations see price drops immediately after Halloween as demand temporarily dips before Thanksgiving travel begins.
Aviasales
GetRentacar.com
Hotellook
Trip.com
GetYourGuide
EKTA
Localrent.com
Travel Medical Insurance
Expedia.com
Tiqets
How to Find Budget Hotels with Good Reviews
Look beyond the major booking sites by using price comparison tools like Trip.com, Expedia, or EKTA. Consider alternative accommodations like guesthouses, boutique hotels, or vacation rentals, which often offer better value in November’s off-season. When researching, filter reviews to see feedback specifically from November travelers to get accurate seasonal information. Don’t be afraid to contact properties directly—many offer unadvertised discounts for direct bookings, especially during quieter periods.
Unlock exclusive November hotel deals on Trip.com with our special reader discount! → CLICK HERE
Travel Insurance: Why It’s Essential and How to Save
November weather can be unpredictable in many regions, making travel insurance particularly important. Look for policies offering adequate coverage for trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and weather-related disruptions. Save by comparing options on sites like SquareMouth or InsureMyTrip rather than accepting the default insurance offered during booking. Annual multi-trip policies can be economical if you travel frequently, and some credit cards include travel insurance benefits when you book using their card.
November Weather Comparison – Top Destinations
| Destination | Avg. Temp (°C) | Rainfall | Crowds | Cost Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto, Japan | 10-15° | Low | Medium | $$$ | Autumn foliage, culture |
| Lisbon, Portugal | 15-18° | Moderate | Low | $$ | City exploration, food |
| Tulum, Mexico | 20-28° | Low | Low-Medium | $$ | Beaches, cenotes |
| Marrakech, Morocco | 15-23° | Low | Low | $ | Markets, architecture |
| Queenstown, NZ | 10-20° | Low | Medium | $$$ | Adventure, nature |
| Dubai, UAE | 20-30° | Very Low | Medium | $$$$ | Luxury, shopping |
| Buenos Aires | 15-25° | Low | Low | $$ | Culture, nightlife |
| Istanbul, Turkey | 10-15° | Moderate | Low | $ | History, cuisine |
| Hanoi, Vietnam | 20-24° | Low | Low | $ | Street food, culture |
| Canary Islands | 19-24° | Low | Low | $$ | Beaches, hiking |
Top 10 Travel Destinations in November + Travel Hacks
1. Kyoto, Japan – Autumn Leaves & Serene Temples
Kyoto transforms into a breathtaking canvas of crimson, orange, and gold as maple trees reach peak autumn colors in November. With summer humidity gone and winter chill not yet arrived, temperatures hover comfortably around 10-15°C (50-59°F).
Beyond the iconic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine, explore lesser-known temples like Daigo-ji or Shoren-in for equally stunning foliage with fewer tourists. Consider purchasing a bus pass for economical transportation, and save on accommodations by staying in machiya (traditional townhouses) or business hotels slightly outside the city center. Many temples offer free or discounted entry for early morning visits.
2. Lisbon, Portugal – Mild Weather & Fewer Crowds
While much of Europe turns cold, Lisbon maintains pleasant temperatures around 15-18°C (59-64°F) in November. Without summer tourists, you’ll enjoy Portugal’s vibrant capital almost to yourself.
Take advantage of the Lisboa Card for discounted transportation and attractions. For accommodation savings, look to the charming Alfama or up-and-coming Mouraria neighborhoods rather than the more expensive Chiado or Baixa areas. Don’t miss free walking tours, affordable food at local tascas (taverns), and the complimentary wine samples offered at many shops in Bairro Alto. November also brings São Martinho (Saint Martin’s Day) celebrations with roasted chestnuts and new wine tastings.
3. Tulum, Mexico – Affordable Beach Escape
November marks the end of hurricane season and the beginning of Tulum’s dry season, with temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F). The Caribbean waters remain warm for swimming, yet prices haven’t reached their winter peak.
Stay in smaller hotels or guesthouses in Tulum Town rather than on the beach strip to cut costs dramatically. Rent a bicycle for easy transportation between town and beach. Visit cenotes (natural swimming holes) like Gran Cenote early in the morning for the best experience at lower entrance fees. For meals, explore the street food scene along the main avenue in town rather than dining at pricier beachfront establishments.
Book your Tulum dream stay on Expedia and get up to 25% off November reservations! → CLICK HERE
4. Marrakech, Morocco – Vibrant Markets and Cooler Temps
November brings ideal weather to Marrakech with temperatures averaging 15-23°C (59-73°F)—perfect for exploring souks and gardens without summer’s intense heat. The decreased tourism also means more authentic experiences and negotiating power.
Stay in a traditional riad in the Medina for authentic atmosphere and value. Purchase a combination ticket for major attractions like Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs. For meals, venture beyond the touristy Jemaa el-Fnaa square to find local eateries where prices drop by half. When shopping, remember that prices in November tend to be more reasonable as vendors are eager for business during the slower season.
Discover authentic Moroccan experiences with Expedia curated tours guided by locals! → CLICK HERE
5. Queenstown, New Zealand – Spring Adventures
While the Northern Hemisphere prepares for winter, Queenstown enjoys spring with temperatures between 10-20°C (50-68°F). November sees wildflowers blooming, longer daylight hours, and pre-summer pricing for adventure activities.
Book adventure activities like bungee jumping or jet boating directly with operators for better rates than through hotels or third parties. Use the Queenstown Trails network for free hiking and biking adventures with spectacular scenery. Self-catering apartments or holiday parks offer economical accommodation options. For dining, the Fergburger is famous but try FergBaker or smaller local eateries to avoid the long queues.
6. Dubai, UAE – Luxury Meets Budget with Off-Peak Deals
November provides Dubai’s perfect weather sweet spot—warm enough for beach days at 20-30°C (68-86°F) but not scorchingly hot. Hotel prices haven’t yet reached their winter premium, making luxury more accessible.
Use the efficient and affordable Metro system instead of taxis. Take advantage of many free beaches rather than paying for private beach clubs. For accommodations, look to Business Bay or Al Barsha neighborhoods for better rates than Marina or Downtown. Many attractions offer significant discounts through online booking platforms like Tiqets or GetYourGuide. The Dubai Entertainment app provides numerous 2-for-1 deals on restaurants and activities.
7. Buenos Aires, Argentina – Start of Summer & Tango Vibes
Spring transitions to early summer in Buenos Aires during November, with jacaranda trees painting the city purple and temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Before the December tourist influx, you’ll experience more authentic local culture.
Stay in neighborhoods like San Telmo or Almagro rather than pricier Palermo or Recoleta. Take advantage of the free events calendar, including outdoor milongas (tango gatherings) in parks. Look for “precio cuidado” signs at restaurants, indicating government-regulated affordable menus. The SUBE card provides discounted public transportation across the city. Visit the ecological reserve along the riverfront for a free nature escape in the heart of the city.
8. Istanbul, Turkey – Cultural Mix and Mild Weather
November in Istanbul offers comfortable sightseeing weather between 10-15°C (50-59°F) without the crushing crowds at major attractions like Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The shoulder season brings better prices and more authentic experiences.
The Istanbul Museum Pass delivers excellent value if you plan to visit multiple cultural sites. Stay in neighborhoods like Kadıköy on the Asian side for better accommodation rates. Use the economical public ferry system both for transportation and as a scenic cruise alternative. Street food like simit (Turkish bagels) and kumpir (stuffed potatoes) make for delicious, affordable meals. Early November sometimes features film and art festivals with free exhibitions and screenings.
9. Hanoi, Vietnam – Dry Season Begins, Cheap Eats & Stays
November marks the beginning of Hanoi’s dry season with comfortable temperatures between 20-24°C (68-75°F) and significantly less rainfall than previous months. The pleasant weather combines with pre-holiday season rates for excellent value.
Explore the atmospheric Old Quarter and stay in smaller boutique hotels or guesthouses for the best deals. Street food tours offer both cultural insights and incredible value—try phở, bánh mì, and egg coffee from local vendors. The weekend night market provides entertainment, shopping, and dining without entrance fees. For day trips, organize shared transportation to attractions like Ninh Binh or Tam Coc rather than private tours to split costs with other travelers.
Find unbeatable Hanoi hotel deals on Hotellook with our exclusive reader discount! → CLICK HERE
10. Canary Islands, Spain – Warmth in Europe
While mainland Europe cools down, the Canary Islands maintain balmy temperatures of 19-24°C (66-75°F) in November. With summer crowds gone, you’ll enjoy pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming villages in peace.
Choose less developed islands like La Palma or El Hierro for better prices than popular Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Local buses provide affordable transportation around the islands. Look for “menu del día” options at restaurants, offering complete meals at fixed prices. Many natural attractions, from volcanic parks to pristine beaches, are free to visit. Consider apartment rentals with kitchenettes to save on dining expenses, especially for longer stays.
November 2025 Travel Deals Comparison
| Platform | Specializes In | November Deals | Best Feature | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aviasales | Flight comparison | Up to 60% off | Finds hidden low fares | BOOK → |
| EKTA | Boutique stays | 15-25% discount | Local, authentic options | BOOK → |
| GetRentacar.com | Car rentals | No winter surcharge | Transparent pricing | BOOK → |
| Tiqets | Attraction tickets | Skip-the-line deals | Mobile tickets | BOOK → |
| Trip.com | Hotels & packages | Up to 40% off | Price match guarantee | BOOK → |
| Expedia | All-in-one booking | Bundle savings | Rewards program | BOOK → |
| WeGoTrip | Local experiences | 10-20% discount | Unique, authentic tours | BOOK → |
Where to Find the Best Travel Deals
Websites & Apps for Cheap Flights
Beyond the usual suspects like Expedia and Kayak, specialized flight deal platforms offer exceptional November savings:
- Aviasales excels at finding routes combining different airlines for the lowest fares, with particularly strong coverage in Europe and Asia. Their price calendar feature is invaluable for flexible November travel dates. Find the absolute lowest November airfares with Aviasales’ powerful search engine! → CLICK HERE
- Secret Flying and Scott’s Cheap Flights alert you to pricing errors and flash sales
- Skiplagged reveals hidden-city ticketing opportunities (though check airline policies)
- Google Flights Explore feature lets you browse by budget rather than specific destination
- Hopper predicts price changes and advises when to book
Set fare alerts on multiple platforms simultaneously and consider alternative airports within a reasonable distance from your destination.
Best Hotel Booking Platforms with Discounts
November-specific hotel strategies include:
- Trip.com offers particularly strong discounts on Asian and Middle Eastern properties during November, with their loyalty program providing immediate benefits for new users. Their flash sales feature regularly showcases November deals with up to 40% off. Score exclusive Trip.com hotel deals with our reader-only promo code! → CLICK HERE
- EKTA specializes in boutique and locally-owned accommodations often overlooked by larger platforms. Their curated November collections highlight authentic stays with seasonal charm at competitive rates. Discover unique accommodations with EKTA’s November promotion for first-time bookers! → CLICK HERE
- Expedia leverages its size to negotiate special November packages combining flights, hotels, and sometimes activities at substantial savings over booking separately. Save big with Expedia’s November package deals and earn bonus rewards points! → CLICK HERE
- HotelTonight for last-minute bookings, especially valuable during this slower season
- Direct booking with hotels after finding the best rate online—many properties offer price matching plus perks
Always check if there are any local festivals or events that might affect pricing, even in the off-season.
Activity and Experience Booking Platforms
Make the most of your November adventures with these specialized platforms:
- Tiqets specializes in digital tickets to museums, attractions, and experiences with mobile delivery and often exclusive time slots. Their November offers frequently include skip-the-line privileges at reduced rates. Skip long lines and save with Tiqets’ exclusive November attraction passes! → CLICK HERE
- WeGoTrip connects travelers with local guides offering unique experiences from food tours to hidden gem excursions. Their self-guided tours are perfect for November’s less crowded conditions. Experience destinations like a local with WeGoTrip’s November promotion! → CLICK HERE
- GetRentacar.com offers transparent car rental pricing without the seasonal markups common in November around Thanksgiving in many markets. Their local partner network often means better vehicle availability during busy periods. Secure your November road trip vehicle with GetRentacar.com’s price guarantee! → CLICK HERE
Transportation Cost Comparison – November 2025
| Transportation Method | Avg. Cost | Booking Platform | November Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flights (International) | $400-1200 | Aviasales | Off-peak pricing, better seat selection |
| Car Rentals (Weekly) | $150-400 | GetRentacar.com | No winter surcharges yet, better availability |
| Airport Transfers | $15-50 | Trip.com | Less congestion, faster service |
| Public Transport Passes | $20-80 | Local websites | Less crowded vehicles, sometimes shoulder season rates |
| City Tour Buses | $25-45 | Tiqets | More frequent departures, no waiting for seats |
Travel Safety & Insurance Tips
What to Look for in a Good Travel Insurance Policy
November travel requires specific insurance considerations. Ensure your policy includes:
- Adequate medical coverage with direct billing to providers rather than reimbursement
- Trip cancellation/interruption that covers weather disruptions common in shoulder seasons
- Emergency evacuation, especially for more remote November destinations
- Coverage for any seasonal activities you might engage in (winter sports beginning in some regions)
- COVID-related protections if still relevant
Read the fine print regarding pre-existing conditions and adventure activity exclusions before purchasing.
How to Avoid Hidden Costs
November travelers should be particularly vigilant about:
- Currency conversion fees, which can be minimized with cards like Wise or Revolut
- Heating charges in colder destinations or air conditioning fees in tropical locations
- Seasonal transport surcharges around American Thanksgiving if applicable
- Mandatory holiday meal packages beginning to appear at hotels late in the month
- Weather-related insurance exclusions specific to November conditions
Always request a full breakdown of fees before confirming reservations, as “shoulder season” can sometimes mean partial application of high-season supplements.
Budget Travel Packing & Prep Tips
Packing Light to Save on Baggage Fees
November’s variable weather makes packing challenging but offers opportunities for savings:
- Master the art of layering rather than packing bulky winter items
- Use packing cubes or compression bags to minimize space
- Wear your heaviest items during travel to save luggage weight
- Consider quick-dry fabrics that can be washed in hotel sinks
- Check baggage policies carefully, as some airlines reduce allowances during busy Thanksgiving periods
Many November destinations have excellent and affordable laundry services, allowing you to pack for a week regardless of trip length.
Using Travel Rewards & Points
November presents unique opportunities for points maximization:
- Transfer credit card points to airline partners during seasonal bonuses
- Look for hotel category adjustments as some properties drop to lower redemption levels
- Target airlines that consider November fully off-peak for awards
- Check for credit card travel portals offering seasonal point multipliers
- Consider “points plus cash” options which often provide better value in shoulder seasons
Sign up for targeted promotions before booking, as many loyalty programs run special November incentives to boost slower booking periods.
Conclusion
November truly stands as one of travel’s best-kept secrets—a golden opportunity to experience dream destinations without high-season crowds or prices. From the autumn splendor of Kyoto to the emerging summer in Buenos Aires, this month offers incredible diversity for every travel style and interest.
By booking early with flexibility, leveraging comparison tools, and implementing the destination-specific tips above, you can craft an unforgettable November journey that delivers exceptional value. The data clearly shows that travelers who book through specialized platforms like Aviasales for flights, Trip.com or EKTA for accommodations, Tiqets for attractions, and WeGoTrip for experiences consistently achieve the best combination of quality and value.
Don’t wait for summer or save all your vacation days for December holidays—embrace November travel now by taking advantage of the exclusive deals we’ve negotiated with our trusted partners. Your perfect autumn getaway is just a click away!