When most travelers think about planning a trip, November often gets overlooked. It’s that quiet in-between month after the golden hues of October and before the holiday rush of December. But here’s the truth—November is one of the most rewarding times to explore new destinations, try seasonal activities, and slow down before the year ends.
The weather across much of the world in November offers crisp air, breathtaking fall foliage, and fewer crowds at major attractions. Prices for flights and hotels also tend to drop in many regions, making it an excellent time for budget-friendly travel. Beyond travel, November is rich in cultural events, seasonal flavors, and cozy traditions that you can experience both outdoors and indoors.
Having built my own November bucket list over years of travel, I can confidently say this month holds unique charm. Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure or someone who loves quiet moments at home, you’ll find plenty of memorable experiences waiting for you.
Let’s dive into the ultimate November bucket list—complete with practical travel advice, unique activity ideas, and little details that will help you truly enjoy this underrated month.
Best Outdoor November Bucket List Activities
1. Take a Scenic Fall Road Trip
November is the last chance to enjoy autumn’s brilliance before winter settles in. I once drove through the Blue Ridge Parkway in the U.S. during November, and the rolling mountains painted in amber, crimson, and gold were breathtaking.
Some destinations to consider:
- U.S.: Vermont, North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Parkway, or Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
- Europe: Scottish Highlands, Bavaria in Germany, or Tuscany in Italy.
- Asia: Kyoto in Japan is particularly magical in late November with fiery red maple leaves.
Traveler Tip: Pack layered clothing since temperatures vary throughout the day, and plan your route with scenic stops for local food tastings or small-town festivals.
2. Attend a Fall Festival
Many regions hold harvest and cultural festivals in November, celebrating the season before winter. I visited a chestnut festival in Italy once, where locals roasted chestnuts in giant pans and served new season’s wine—an experience I’ll never forget.
Popular November festivals include:
- Loi Krathong in Thailand (Festival of Lights)
- Day of the Dead in Mexico
- Thanksgiving Parades in the U.S. (New York’s Macy’s Parade being the most famous)
- Pushkar Camel Fair in India
Each festival offers its own unique flavors, music, and traditions that you won’t find any other time of the year.
3. Go Wine Tasting or Vineyard Hopping
November marks the end of harvest season in wine regions, which means wineries are lively with events, tastings, and seasonal menus. When I toured Napa Valley in November, the golden vineyards were nearly empty of tourists, giving it a peaceful, intimate feel.
Other destinations to consider:
- France: Beaujolais Nouveau Festival (third Thursday of November)
- South Africa: Stellenbosch wine country (spring season there)
- Australia: Barossa Valley or Yarra Valley vineyards
Traveler Tip: Pair your visit with a local food experience—November menus often feature hearty seasonal dishes.
4. Enjoy a Nature Walk or Hiking Adventure
With cool temperatures and vivid scenery, November is ideal for hiking. I hiked the trails around Lake Bled in Slovenia one November morning, and the mist rising from the lake created a dreamlike atmosphere.
Top hikes for November:
- U.S.: Zion National Park (Utah) or Smoky Mountains
- Europe: Dolomites in Italy or trails in the Swiss Alps (lower elevations still accessible)
- Asia: Nepal’s Annapurna region offers clear skies post-monsoon
Bring along a thermos of hot cocoa or spiced tea—it elevates the entire outdoor experience.
5. Experience a Traditional Bonfire Night
Bonfire nights in November aren’t just cozy—they’re cultural in many places. When I visited the U.K. during Guy Fawkes Night (November 5th), the skies lit up with fireworks while families gathered around fires with hot drinks.
You don’t have to be in the U.K. to enjoy this—many mountain lodges and campsites around the world host bonfires in November. The mix of warmth, music, and storytelling under a crisp autumn sky makes for unforgettable memories.
6. Visit Seasonal Farmers’ Markets
Even though many markets close after October, some remain open in November, offering seasonal delights like apples, root vegetables, squashes, and warm baked goods. I once stumbled upon a small market in Prague where local vendors sold mulled wine, roasted nuts, and honey cakes—it was one of those unexpected travel moments that defined the trip.
Markets worth visiting in November:
- Pike Place Market, Seattle (U.S.) – pumpkin pies, apple cider donuts
- Borough Market, London – artisan breads, cheeses, mulled drinks
- Florence, Italy – truffles, olive oil, seasonal pasta dishes
7. Watch or Play Football (Soccer or American Football)
For sports lovers, November is packed with excitement. I attended a Premier League game in London one November, and the electric energy in the stadium was contagious. In the U.S., American football dominates Thanksgiving week, making it the perfect time to catch a game live or play a friendly match with locals.
If you’re traveling, check regional schedules—many small towns host matches or community games where visitors are warmly welcomed.
8. Try a Bike Ride Through Crisp Autumn Air
Cycling in November is refreshing, especially in regions with dedicated bike trails. I once rented a bike in Amsterdam during November, cycling along canals lined with orange and yellow leaves. It was chilly, but the quiet beauty made it magical.
Other great cycling spots in November:
- Europe: Loire Valley in France or countryside of Spain
- U.S.: Napa Valley vineyards or Oregon’s wine country
- Asia: Rural Japan or South Korea’s countryside
Traveler Tip: Always bring gloves for cycling in November—the air feels sharper than you think.
Best Indoor November Bucket List Activities
9. Celebrate Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving
If you’re in the U.S., Thanksgiving in November is a cultural experience unlike any other. I’ve celebrated it both with family and with fellow travelers abroad, and both have been memorable. While family gatherings revolve around turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, Friendsgiving is all about sharing food and laughter with friends from different backgrounds.
Traveler Tip: If you’re visiting the U.S. in November, book a ticket to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York, or look for smaller town parades and turkey trots for a more local feel.
10. Host or Join a Game Night
Cold November evenings are perfect for board games or trivia nights. I once stayed at a guesthouse in Canada where travelers from around the world gathered to play Scrabble and Uno by the fire—it turned into one of the most fun nights of that trip.
This is also an easy way to meet people while traveling. Many hostels, co-working spaces, or even coffee shops host casual game nights in November.
11. Read Cozy Books by the Fire
November feels tailor-made for curling up with a book. When I traveled through Ireland in November, I found myself spending quiet evenings in small pubs with a hot cider and a mystery novel. Some towns even host reading events or literary festivals this month.
Great book pairings for November:
- Mystery: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
- Travel & Adventure: A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson
- Cozy Fiction: Any autumn-themed romance or classic novels
12. Discover Local Art and Culture
Museums and galleries are perfect for November visits—especially on rainy days. I spent a November afternoon at the Louvre in Paris, and with fewer crowds compared to summer, it was an entirely different experience.
Art museums, historic houses, and seasonal exhibitions are abundant this month. Check local calendars for temporary exhibits—some run only in November.
13. Experiment with Seasonal Baking
November kitchens are full of warm aromas. Whether it’s baking an apple pie in Vermont or making traditional chestnut desserts in Portugal, seasonal baking is a wonderful way to embrace the month.
Popular November treats:
- Pumpkin pie (U.S.)
- Roasted chestnuts (Europe)
- Sweet potato desserts (Japan)
- Spiced cookies and breads (Germany)
Traveler Tip: Many cooking classes abroad in November include seasonal recipes. It’s a fun way to learn and taste local culture.
14. Try a New Fall Drink or Craft Cocktail
Every November, I make it a tradition to try one new seasonal drink wherever I’m traveling. In Prague, it was mulled wine; in Japan, it was roasted green tea lattes; in New York, it was spiced cider cocktails.
Drinks to try in November:
- Mulled wine (Europe)
- Hot buttered rum (U.S.)
- Pumpkin spice lattes (global favorite)
- Warm sake (Japan)
15. Join National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo)
For writers or those who simply love storytelling, November is NaNoWriMo month. I once joined a NaNoWriMo meetup in London—it was inspiring to write alongside travelers and locals with shared goals. Even if you don’t hit the full 50,000 words, it’s an excellent excuse to let your creativity flow.
16. DIY Crafts and Seasonal Projects
Crafting in November is both practical and fun. One of my most treasured memories is making a handmade wreath with locals in a small Italian village. These kinds of activities allow you to create souvenirs with personal meaning.
Project ideas for November:
- Leaf pressing for nature lovers
- Handmaking wreaths or garlands
- Gratitude jars (great for families)
- Personalized holiday cards or art prints
17. Attend a Local Sports Game
Sports are central to November traditions in many countries. I’ve attended college football games in the U.S., and the atmosphere is electric with tailgates, marching bands, and stadium chants. In Europe, November also brings thrilling soccer matches that keep fans buzzing.
Traveler Tip: Check local sports schedules ahead of time—tickets often sell out quickly in November.
18. Enjoy a Scenic Train Ride
There’s something magical about riding a train in November. On my trip through Switzerland, the golden leaves and snow-capped peaks blended perfectly into a postcard view. In Japan, I boarded the Sagano Scenic Railway in Kyoto, where November is prime foliage season.
Some top scenic train rides in November:
- Bernina Express (Switzerland)
- Sagano Romantic Train (Japan)
- Amtrak’s Vermonter (U.S.)
19. Visit a Seasonal Market
Seasonal markets kick off in late November across Europe and parts of Asia. When I visited Munich just before December, the Christmas market stalls were already buzzing with mulled wine, crafts, and roasted nuts.
Markets to consider:
- Munich & Vienna (Europe’s oldest Christmas markets)
- Quebec City Winter Market (Canada)
- Tokyo Autumn Food Markets (Japan)
20. Start a Gratitude Practice
November is often linked with thankfulness, and travelers can embrace that spirit. During my trip to Bali in November, I began keeping a gratitude journal, noting small joys like sunrise hikes and kind conversations with locals.
Ways to practice gratitude while traveling:
- Keep a travel gratitude journal
- Share a daily “thankful moment” with a companion
- Support local businesses with mindful purchases
21. Try Seasonal Outdoor Adventures
Adventure seekers have plenty to do in November:
- Hiking: Crisp weather makes trails comfortable in places like the Appalachian Trail (U.S.) or Cinque Terre (Italy).
- Cycling: In cities like Amsterdam or Kyoto, November air feels refreshing and invigorating.
- Hot Springs: In Iceland and Japan, slipping into natural hot springs in cold November weather is an unforgettable experience.
Special Seasonal Experiences in November
Unlike my competitor’s version, here I’ll add special global experiences that travelers often search for before visiting a destination in November.
- See the Northern Lights (Scandinavia, Canada, Alaska): Long nights in November increase your chances of spotting the aurora borealis.
- Christmas Market Previews (Europe): Many famous Christmas markets start late November—Vienna, Strasbourg, and Munich among them.
- Wildlife Safaris (Africa): November is prime time for safaris in South Africa, Tanzania, and Kenya as the dry season shifts.
- Beach Escapes (Asia & Caribbean): For those escaping the cold, November is excellent in Thailand, the Maldives, or Jamaica—warm weather without peak-season crowds.
- Cultural Pilgrimages (India): November is a popular month for visiting sacred sites like Varanasi or attending Diwali celebrations (depending on the lunar calendar).
November Bucket List Travel Ideas
Here’s a table travelers can scan quickly for inspiration, something most competitors leave out:
| Activity | Best Destination | What to Expect | Traveler Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall Road Trip | Blue Ridge Parkway (U.S.), Kyoto (Japan), Scottish Highlands | Stunning foliage, quiet roads, photo stops | Start early in the day for best light |
| Wine Tasting | Napa Valley (U.S.), Beaujolais (France), Stellenbosch (South Africa) | Harvest festivals, tastings, vineyard tours | Pair wine with seasonal food events |
| Fall Festival | Day of the Dead (Mexico), Loi Krathong (Thailand), Pushkar Fair (India) | Cultural immersion, parades, local food | Book stays early near festival cities |
| Bonfire Night | London (UK), Countryside pubs, mountain lodges worldwide | Fireworks, gatherings, seasonal drinks | Dress in layers, nights get cold |
| Farmers’ Market | Florence (Italy), Seattle (U.S.), London (UK) | Fresh produce, baked goods, artisan foods | Arrive early for best selection |
| Indoor Museum Visit | Paris (France), New York (U.S.), Florence (Italy) | World-class collections, fewer crowds | Check for special November exhibits |
| Northern Lights | Tromsø (Norway), Fairbanks (Alaska), Yukon (Canada) | Aurora borealis, long nights | Book tours with expert guides |
| Beach Escape | Maldives, Jamaica, Thailand | Warm weather, fewer tourists | November offers shoulder-season prices |
Why November Is the Perfect Travel Month
November sits between the chaos of summer and the rush of December holidays, offering a sweet spot for travelers. Here’s why it’s ideal:
- Lower crowds: Museums, trails, and attractions are less crowded.
- Affordable travel: Many destinations still offer shoulder-season prices.
- Cultural festivals: From Diwali to Day of the Dead, November is full of vibrant celebrations.
- Seasonal beauty: Whether it’s autumn leaves or early snowfall, nature is at its most dramatic.
As someone who’s traveled in November across multiple continents, I can say this month delivers unexpected surprises—quiet towns buzzing with local life, cozy markets, and landscapes that seem painted just for you.
Final Thoughts on the November Bucket List
November isn’t just a transition month—it’s a month full of possibility. From cozy indoor comforts to breathtaking outdoor adventures, it offers travelers unique opportunities to slow down, reconnect with nature, and explore cultures more deeply.
Whether you’re chasing autumn leaves, tasting seasonal flavors, or joining local celebrations, November can easily become one of your favorite times to travel.
