Where to Go in Europe in November 2025: 15 Great City Breaks
November might not be the first month that comes to mind for a trip to Europe — but it’s actually one of the best times to explore the continent’s great cities without the crowds (or peak-season prices). While beach weather is hard to find outside of the Canary Islands, Europe in November is ideal for cultural travel: museums, cozy cafés, historic streets, and early holiday charm. Flights are usually cheaper, hotel rates drop across much of the region, and popular attractions are refreshingly uncrowded.
Whether you’re looking for mild weather, rich history, or just a great deal on a city break, the 15 destinations below are some of the best bets in Europe this time of year. A few are surprisingly sunny, many are pleasantly quiet, and all offer real value in November 2025. And to help you compare, we’ve included freshly researched hotel prices for good, central 3‑ and 4‑star hotels — so you’ll know exactly what to expect when booking.
This article was last updated in July, 2025
The One European Beach Destination with Great November Weather
If you’re hoping to soak up some sun on a European beach in November, there’s really only one dependable option. While much of the continent is cooling down fast, Tenerife — the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands — stays warm, dry, and beach-friendly well into late autumn. It’s one of the few places in Europe where you can swim in the sea and enjoy a proper holiday vibe without hopping continents.
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
- November avg high: 75°F/24°C
- November avg low: 65°F/18°C
- November avg precip: 1.1″/2.8cm
If you’re determined to stay in Europe and still want beach weather in November, Tenerife is your best — and really only — reliable option. Located just off the northwest coast of Africa, the Canary Islands enjoy year-round sunshine and mild temperatures, even as the rest of Europe cools down. In early November, you can still swim in the ocean, hike through volcanic landscapes, or just relax poolside with a drink in hand.
I spent almost a month in Tenerife, and while I’ll admit it’s kind of boring in terms of sightseeing, it’s also incredibly relaxing. Especially this time of year, the island tends to attract older northern Europeans looking for sun, not nightlife — so it’s peaceful, easygoing, and refreshingly low-stress. You won’t find much in the way of big cities or must-see attractions, but if you’re after sunshine and downtime, it’s hard to beat.
Tenerife also serves as a bit of a stand-in for the rest of the Canary Islands — places like Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura offer similar weather and bargains, often with even fewer tourists. If you just want to stay warm, unwind, and enjoy a proper beach holiday without leaving Europe, this is where you want to be.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$112 per night for two people
14 Great European Cities to Visit in November (Beyond the Beach)
Beach weather may be scarce in Europe come November, but that doesn’t mean the continent loses its charm. In fact, this is a fantastic month for city breaks — with cooler temps, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices in many of Europe’s most iconic destinations. From cozy cafés and world-class museums to historic streets lit up for the early holiday season, these 14 cities are ideal for off-season travel that still feels exciting, cultural, and surprisingly affordable.
Paris, France
- November avg high: 51°F/11°C
- November avg low: 43°F/6°C
- November avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
Paris might not be warm in November, but it’s still one of the most rewarding cities in Europe to visit this time of year. Crowds are lighter, prices drop slightly compared to the peak summer months, and the city feels more local — with cozy cafés, glowing street lamps, and plenty of charm even on gray days. Museums and galleries are ideal for cooler weather, and holiday lights start going up across the city by mid-November, giving it an early festive buzz.
While hotel prices are still relatively high compared to most other cities on this list, they’re definitely lower than in spring and summer — and the food is worth the trip all by itself. From wine and cheese shops to cozy bistros and warm crêpes from street stalls, Paris in the off-season is a dream for food lovers. If you’re planning to visit several major attractions, the Paris Pass is worth considering, especially if you make use of the hop-on hop-off bus and the Seine River cruise.
Paris rewards slow, thoughtful travel — and in November, you get the beauty of the city without the intensity of peak season crowds. Bring a coat, grab a warm croissant, and you’ll be glad you came.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$124 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$134 per night for two people
Rome, Italy
- November avg high: 63°F/17°C
- November avg low: 47°F/8°C
- November avg precip: 4.4″/11.0cm
Rome is one of Europe’s most iconic cities, and November is a surprisingly good time to visit. The weather is still mild — often in the low 60s °F (around 16°C) — and the crowds are finally manageable after the tourist-heavy summer and early fall months. It’s a great time to explore the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, and ancient ruins without waiting in long lines or baking in the sun. Street life is still active, and the city feels lively but not overwhelming.
Hotel prices in November are looking pretty reasonable this year, with well-located 3-star options starting around $88 per night and solid 4-star hotels from about $101. That’s a welcome break compared to the prices Rome commands in spring and early autumn. Food is another big draw year-round — even the touristy spots often serve delicious pasta, pizza, and espresso at prices that are fair if you know where to look.
Personally, I always look forward to visiting Rome — and also look forward to leaving. It’s one of the most fascinating cities in the world, but also one of the most hectic, with constant traffic, noise, and a level of urban energy that can wear you down. A few days in Rome in November is just about perfect: enough time to see the big sights, eat exceptionally well, and enjoy a bit of Roman chaos before heading somewhere quieter.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$88 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$101 per night for two people
London, England
- November avg high: 51°F/11°C
- November avg low: 41°F/5°C
- November avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
London is cold and gray in November — and it’s still one of the best cities in Europe to visit this time of year. With its world-class museums, cozy pubs, and festive lights beginning to appear, London becomes all about indoor culture and crisp autumn atmosphere. November is also when hotel prices dip a bit before the December holidays, and flight deals are easier to find than in the warmer months.
I lived in London for six months and have been to nearly every major attraction — and trust me, you’ll want to plan strategically if you want to see the highlights without overspending. The London Pass is worth looking into if you plan to hit several of the top sights, especially when you combine it with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. One of my favorite money-saving tips is to simply walk a few blocks away from the big tourist areas like Westminster or Piccadilly. Prices drop quickly, and the neighborhoods start to feel more like the “real” London — even though you’re still in Zone 1.
Whether you’re visiting for history, shopping, theater, or just the atmosphere, London in November is a great city break with a little planning and a good coat.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$112 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$143 per night for two people
Barcelona, Spain
- November avg high: 63°F/17°C
- November avg low: 47°F/8°C
- November avg precip: 2.3″/5.8cm
Barcelona in November offers the perfect mix of culture, energy, and mild weather — all without the tourist crowds that fill the city in summer. With daytime temperatures often in the 60s °F (high teens °C), it’s still comfortable enough for long walks through the Gothic Quarter, strolls along the beach, or taking in Gaudí’s surreal architecture. Plus, you’ll find shorter lines at places like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, which makes the city feel a lot more relaxed and enjoyable.
This is also one of the best times of year to experience Barcelona more like a local. Outdoor dining is still an option during the day, tapas bars are buzzing in the evenings, and prices for hotels and flights are noticeably lower than peak season. Whether you’re here for the food, art, or just the city’s unique Mediterranean vibe, November is an underrated time to go — especially if you want to avoid the chaos without sacrificing atmosphere.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$107 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$130 per night for two people
Istanbul, Turkey
- November avg high: 60°F/16°C
- November avg low: 47°F/8°C
- November avg precip: 3.3″/8.3cm
Istanbul is one of the most exotic-feeling cities in Europe — a true crossroads of continents, cultures, and empires. But despite the stories and imagery that make it feel like a desert bazaar, it’s actually a waterfront city much farther north than many people expect. I used to picture sand and heat, but in reality, November weather here is cool and often damp — think jackets and tea, not sun hats and camel rides. Still, it’s an amazing time to visit, especially if you want to experience Istanbul without the heat or crowds.
This is a city packed with indoor highlights: grand mosques, underground cisterns, spice markets, palaces, and museums — all ideal for cooler days. November also brings lower hotel prices, smaller tour groups, and a slightly slower pace that lets you take in the atmosphere without being overwhelmed. It’s not a beach trip, but for architecture, history, and something completely different from Western Europe, Istanbul in November is a fascinating choice.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$50 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$56 per night for two people
Florence, Italy
- November avg high: 59°F/15°C
- November avg low: 42°F/6°C
- November avg precip: 4.4″/11.0cm
Florence may be known for its Renaissance beauty and summer crowds, but November offers a quieter, more atmospheric version of the city — ideal for art lovers and anyone who prefers cool, uncrowded museum visits. The Uffizi and Accademia are far easier to enjoy without long queues, and the compact city center is made for slow wandering, with plenty of cozy cafés and trattorias to duck into between sights. The weather is brisk but manageable, and hotel rates are lower than in peak season.
By November it’s usually too chilly and quiet for a proper Cinque Terre sidetrip, but a quick visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is still a great half-day option. You can be there, snap the classic photo, and be back in Florence before lunch. If you’re looking for a city that combines art, food, and manageable crowds, Florence in November is about as pleasant — and peaceful — as it gets.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$88 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$130 per night for two people
Amsterdam, Netherlands
- November avg high: 48°F/9°C
- November avg low: 39°F/4°C
- November avg precip: 3.0″/7.5cm
Amsterdam isn’t known for amazing weather — and that’s exactly why November works here. It’s more of an indoor city anyway, with world-class museums, cozy brown cafés, and scenic neighborhoods that are just as charming under gray skies. Most of the top sights are within walking distance of each other, and the whole city is compact and well-connected, so it’s easy to explore even when the weather isn’t perfect.
I lived in Amsterdam for three months and have been back countless times, and honestly, it really only has a month or two of “nice” weather each year. November doesn’t feel much different from the rest — cool, cloudy, and occasionally damp, but rarely snowy or stormy. Hotel prices tend to dip a bit, and the crowds thin out just enough to make the city feel more local. If you want a low-key, walkable destination where the atmosphere matters more than the temperature, Amsterdam delivers year-round.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$71 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$86 per night for two people
Lisbon, Portugal
- November avg high: 64°F/18°C
- November avg low: 53°F/12°C
- November avg precip: 4.2″/10.5cm
Lisbon is one of the best bets for warm-ish weather in mainland Europe in November. While it’s not quite beach season, daytime highs often reach the mid-60s °F (around 18°C), and the sun still makes regular appearances. That means you can comfortably explore the city’s steep hills, historic trams, and scenic viewpoints without bundling up too much — and without the summer crowds. It’s a relaxed time to visit, and hotel prices are usually well below peak season levels.
Lisbon has become more popular in recent years, but it still feels like an underrated gem — especially in the off-season. The food is fantastic (and cheap), the public transportation is easy to use, and day trips to places like Sintra or Cascais are still worthwhile in November. If you’re looking for a cultural city break that doesn’t require gloves and scarves just yet, Lisbon is one of the most pleasant surprises in Europe this time of year.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$59 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$112 per night for two people
Madrid, Spain
- November avg high: 56°F/13°C
- November avg low: 43°F/6°C
- November avg precip: 2.2″/5.5cm
Madrid tends to fly under the radar compared to Barcelona, but in November, that works to its advantage. The weather is often crisp and sunny, with daytime highs in the upper 50s to low 60s °F (around 14–17°C), and there’s less chance of rain than in many northern cities. It’s a great time to explore the city’s famous museums, stroll through Retiro Park in a light jacket, and enjoy long lunches and late-night tapas in the capital’s lively neighborhoods.
November also brings lower hotel prices and a more local pace, especially in the historic center. While Madrid doesn’t have the coastal charm of some other Spanish cities, it more than makes up for it with culture, food, and energy. From the Prado and Reina Sofía to flamenco shows and rooftop bars, Madrid delivers an authentic big-city experience — and it feels even more relaxed when you’re not visiting in peak season.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$92 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$99 per night for two people
Venice, Italy
- November avg high: 53°F/12°C
- November avg low: 40°F/4°C
- November avg precip: 3.4″/8.5cm
Venice in November feels like a secret. The summer crowds are long gone, the canals are misty and atmospheric, and the narrow streets are much easier to enjoy without shoulder-to-shoulder tourists. It’s one of the quietest months to visit — and that’s exactly why it’s one of the best. You’ll still want to bring a jacket and an umbrella (flooding is possible during acqua alta season), but the tradeoff is a far more peaceful version of this famously over-touristed city.
That said, Venice is usually best as a one- or two-day stop. The food here tends to be noticeably below the standard you’ll find in Rome, Florence, or smaller Italian cities — and it’s usually more expensive too, especially in the central areas. But for a short visit full of unforgettable views, historic charm, and dreamy canals, November is one of the few times you can enjoy Venice without feeling like you’re in a theme park.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$91 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$135 per night for two people
Berlin, Germany
- November avg high: 45°F/7°C
- November avg low: 36°F/2°C
- November avg precip: 1.7″/4.3cm
Berlin may not offer sunshine in November, but it does offer something better: a deep, fascinating dive into history, culture, and creativity. The city is packed with museums, galleries, and indoor landmarks that are perfect for cooler, darker days. From the Berlin Wall memorials and the Reichstag to the sprawling Museum Island, there’s no shortage of things to see and do — and many of them are either free or very affordable.
While the weather tends to be chilly and gray, Berlin wears it well. The café scene is strong, the public transportation is excellent, and the city’s gritty charm feels more authentic without summer crowds. If you’re looking for a destination that’s all about substance over scenery, Berlin in November is a smart choice — especially for travelers who like their cities with a bit of edge and a lot of depth.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$90 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$126 per night for two people
Prague, Czech Republic
- November avg high: 44°F/7°C
- November avg low: 36°F/2°C
- November avg precip: 1.2″/3.0cm
November is one of the most budget-friendly months in Prague—and one of the best times to visit. Temperatures are cool but not harsh, and while the days are shorter, the city retains its fairy-tale quality with atmospheric light on the old buildings and bridges. With tourist crowds thinning, museums and churches are easier to explore, and iconic spots like Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square, and the Prague Castle district feel much more manageable.
Hotel prices also take a noticeable dip in November, especially in well-located 3‑ and 4‑star properties. This year, you can find solid options starting around US$55 for a comfortable 3‑star and just US$66 for a central 4‑star room. These rates are considerably lower than the US$105 average for the year.
Like Cusco or Pokhara, Prague is one of those destinations where visitors often end up staying longer than planned – not because they feel they have to, but because it’s surprisingly pleasant. Cafés, beer gardens indoors, low-cost attractions, and a fairytale ambiance that’s free to walk around make it easy to linger. For budget travelers looking for easy charm, history, and value in November, Prague delivers in spades.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$55 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$66 per night for two people
Budapest, Hungary
- November avg high: 47°F/8°C
- November avg low: 36°F/2°C
- November avg precip: 2.4″/6.0cm
Budapest is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, and it becomes especially appealing in November. The weather is cool and often gray, but the city’s thermal baths, cozy cafés, and ornate architecture create a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for late autumn travel. It’s a great time to explore indoor attractions like the Parliament building, ruin pubs, and the excellent Central Market Hall — without the summer tourist crowds.
Hotel prices in November are consistently low, even for well-located 3‑ and 4‑star properties. Whether you’re soaking in the famous Széchenyi Baths or just wandering through the city’s historic neighborhoods with a hot mulled wine in hand, Budapest offers an incredible value this time of year. It’s a perfect choice for travelers looking for a low-cost European getaway with plenty of culture, comfort, and character.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$61 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$70 per night for two people
Interlaken, Switzerland
- November avg high: 46°F/8°C
- November avg low: 33°F/1°C
- November avg precip: 3.3″/8.3cm
Tucked between two alpine lakes and surrounded by towering peaks, Interlaken is the gateway to one of Europe’s most stunning regions — including the Lauterbrunnen Valley, which many (myself included) consider the most beautiful area in all of Europe. That said, November is a bit of a transitional period here. The hiking trails are mostly shut down, and ski season hasn’t really started, so the area feels quieter than usual — and many hotels and restaurants close for a few weeks.
Still, enough remain open to make a short visit worthwhile, and the tradeoff is almost no crowds and some of the lowest hotel prices of the year. If you’re not counting on outdoor activities and just want to soak in the views or explore nearby towns like Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen at your own pace, this can be a peaceful, affordable way to experience Switzerland’s alpine beauty without the usual price tag. Just be prepared for limited services and cooler weather — and bring a camera.
Hotel prices in November
- 3-star hotels from: US$196 per night for two people
- 4-star hotels from: US$233 per night for two people
Hi Roger,
Thanks for your response. We are flying to Rome from Stockholm on 20th April Morning and returning from Venice to Stockholm on 27th April Afternoon. So, we have 7 days for entire trip. Based on the duration, request you to suggest the Itenary and the best way to commute from Rome->Florence->Venice. Also, pls suggest if we can travel to Milan in this short duration. Thank you
Prathyusha,
I’d fly into Rome and spend 3 nights there and then take the high-speed train to Florence to spend 3 nights and then the high speed train to Venice for about 24 hours if possible. The train journeys only take 90 to 120 minutes so they are very convenient. I’d buy the train tickets very soon though because the fares go up as more seats are sold and as the travel date draws near.
Milan is famous for banks and fashion labels, but it’s actually not a great tourist city and it wasn’t even part of Italy in the late 1800s, so it doesn’t look very “Italian.” On the other hand, the main cathedral and the shopping area that surrounds it are really wonderful so you might consider just a stop there for a few hours on your way to Venice. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
Hope you are doing good!! Your suggestions helped us a lot when we planned for our 1st Europe trip in last November where we covered Amsterdam, Belgium and Paris. Now we are planning for a vacation around Easter. We are planning to Visit Italy and Switzerland. Please suggest if we can cover both the places in 8-9 days. If not both, is it good time to travel Italy alone? If yes, could you please advise full Itenary. We’ll be flying from Stockholm to Italy. If not these both places, happy to explore other places too as per your suggestion. Thank you!!
Prathyusha,
I’m glad my previous suggestions helped. The fastest way to do that trip would be to fly into Zurich and take a train to Interlaken and spend 2 or 3 nights there, and then take a train to Venice (changing in Milan) for about one day, and then a train to Florence or 2 days and then a train to Rome for 3 days before flying back to Stockholm. That would be quite rushed, but it would still be fun.
That said, November isn’t the best time to visit Switzerland because it’s too cold for most hiking and not yet snowy enough for the ski season, so many smaller hotels and restaurants are closed from mid October until mid December. There are plenty that are still open so you could find a place, but it is the quiet season. I’d probably save Switzerland for another time and spend the whole 8 or 9 days in Italy, because it’s a great time to visit there. It’ll still be warm enough to enjoy but the crowds will be small and the hotels will be relatively cheap.
I’d fly into Venice or into Milan and then take a train to Venice and spend 1 or 2 nights there. Then take a train to Florence for 3 nights and then a train to Rome for 3 nights before you fly home from there. This should help you figure out what you’d like to do. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
As of now we have finalized Swiss, Paris and Italy. Sorry for bothering you so much. Thank you so much for your suggestions 🙂
Thanks for your great insight and recommendations. I am scheduling a trip to Europe for 7-9 days, but first visiting a friend in eastern Europe for 2-3 days and then I have 5-6 days. I have been to Portugal, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Austria traveling with others, however this time I will be traveling alone. Do you have any recommendations in areas that are not too cold? What are your thoughts on cruises?
Gabby,
I think Mediterranean cruises are a great way to see many different cities in a short time. A friend of mine used to work on those cruises and she said that nearly everyone was very happy with the experience. The November weather obviously isn’t as nice as summer so I’m not sure how much fun you’ll have at the pool on the ship and that sort of thing, but since the ships arrive at around 7am each day and leave at 6pm the idea is that you’ll be exploring the cities rather than sitting by the pool anyway. And of course the Mediterranean is where you’ll find most of the warmer cities any time of year, including November.
One challenge might be the cost of a cabin for one person though. Many cruise lines now have single cabins or very good prices for solo guests on cruises that aren’t sold out, so hopefully you can get a good deal. A few years ago a single cruiser would have to pay literally double the price to get your own cabin, and hopefully you won’t have to do that this time of year. Barcelona is one of the most popular cruise ports and it’s a great city to spend a day or two in as well. If a cruise doesn’t work out I’d probably just spend time in Spain. Barcelona and Madrid are easily worth 3 days each and they are quite different from each other. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger! Congratulations for you website… it’s very nice! 🙂
We are couple from Brazil and we have 16 days in Italy, from 10th until 26th November. We will start from Milan and will finish in Rome. Do you have any suggestions? Which cities must see? Is Italy a good ideia in November? Or is better to go to another country?
Sorry for so many questions!!!
Thank you for all tips!!!
Camila
Camila,
I think Italy is a great choice for Europe in November. For specific itinerary suggestions have a look at my article on the best France and Italy itineraries for 2 or 3 weeks. Most of the suggestions are for Italy so you should be able to get plenty of ideas.
I wouldn’t recommend Lake Como or the beach areas in November because those will all be very quiet and many things will be closed. But you can still visit Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast that time of year, as long as you aren’t looking for sunbathing. The Big 3 in Italy are Venice, Florence, and Rome, and you probably want to spend about 8 days in those. I think basing yourself in Sorrento for 4 days or so would also be pleasant because it allows you to do day trips to Naples, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the Isle of Capri. If you want to add in a bit of food tourism you could visit Bologna, which many people consider as having the best food in Italy. That should give you some ideas to start with. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
Thanks a lot for the detailed description.
But, I am still confused. Our plan is to first visit Helsinki or Copenhagen during weekend and come back to Stockholm. After couple of days, we would start our trip. I am confused on which place to visit first. I also feel that Swiss is not worth visiting as hiking and skiing are closed now. Can we include Prague in our list? If yes, can you please suggest the itinerary for Paris, Italy and Prague. If you think Prague cannot be included in our trip, pls suggest which place to visit first from Stockholm if we are going with Paris, Italy and Swiss. I would be more happy if you suggest places other than the above which you think are worth visiting during November. Thank you!
Prathyusha,
You can still enjoy really great hiking in Switzerland in November as long as you dress properly. It’s just that the main season ends in mid October and there are fewer visitors, which can actually be a good thing. It rarely snows in the popular hiking areas until December, so it’s still worth considering. And with more snow at the very tops of the mountains by then it can be really beautiful.
Prague will be quite chilly in November, but it’s unlikely to have any snow (or even much rain) so you could visit if you dress warmly enough. I’d recommend 3 nights each in Paris or Prague or Rome. If you wanted to see more of Italy you could take a short train ride to Florence for 2 or 3 days and then another short train ride to Venice for 1 or 2 days. Venice has had worse flooding than normal this season so I’m not sure I’d go there this time of year. Except for the places where I mentioned train rides you’d need to fly between cities. You can take a train from Paris to Interlaken and then a train from Interlaken to Venice or Florence as well, but if you want to include Prague you’d need to fly in and out.
And again, Copenhagen is a really gorgeous city and Helsinki is quite plain in comparison, so I’d choose Copenhagen if it’s one or the other. I’m happy to help more as you are making decisions. -Roger
Hi Roger,
Thank you for your response. We will be staying in Stockholm for a week as my husband is working there and we also have to come back to Stockholm after our trip. Can you please suggest any place for a weekend near to Stockholm. Helsinki or Copenhagen are in our list. If we come back to our European getaway, we also wish to visit Paris (Eiffel tower mostly), Brussels, Amsterdam as they are all near by. Prague was also in our list. But, it might not be possible for 11 days trip. Is it good option to travel Paris, Rome and Swiss. If yes, could you please advise full itenary. Thank you
Prathyusha,
If you have 11 days to work with (not including time spent in Stockholm) I would try to choose 3 or maybe 4 cities to visit. Paris is amazing and Amsterdam is also really worthwhile. I’m not as much of a fan of Brussels because there isn’t nearly as much to see since it’s primarily a business and government city. If you wanted to do this without flying you could go from Stockholm to Copenhagen (which is much nicer and more interesting than Helsinki) and then Amsterdam and then Paris. Prague is also fantastic, but it’s not close enough to any other of your cities to take trains, so you’d have to fly.
Normally I encourage people to take trains instead of flights around Europe because it’s so much more of an enjoyable experience. But starting from Stockholm in mid November is not ideal for trains. The distances between cities are long and the scenery is quite dull, unfortunately. The good news is that flights are cheap and plentiful, and in many cases will actually be cheaper than the cheapest train fares to those same cities. Switzerland is arguably the most beautiful country for natural sights, mostly in and around the Alps. You can get there by train from Paris in about 6 hours. Flying from Paris to Zurich and then a train to Interlaken will take a bit more than 6 hours and you’d miss a lot of great scenery, so the train is the better option there. Obviously you’d have to fly to Rome and it’s worth it if you have the time.
I hope this helps and I’m happy to offer more advice as you are locking in your plan. -Roger
Hi Roger,
It’s our 1st Anniversary. We are planning a European getaway between 16th to 27th November. I will be travelling to Sweden on Nov 9th. It is first time visit for both of us. We are looking for places which are bit warmer so that we can explore more. Please advice which places can be covered for 12 days duration and our journey will start from Stockholm. Also, please advice, if Switzerland is good place to visit during November. Thank you!
Prathyusha,
Stockholm is a gorgeous city and you’ll enjoy it, but the days are pretty short in November because it’s so far north, and it’ll be pretty chilly. I’d recommend spending about 3 days in Stockholm and then flying somewhere in southern Europe for the remainder of the trip. Fortunately the flights within Europe are pretty affordable so you can go just about anywhere you like.
The summer and hiking season in Switzerland ends in the middle of October and the skiing and snow season starts in mid December, so November is pretty slow in the mountains and some smaller hotels and restaurants are closed during that period. But others stay open and the crowds are small so it can be a good time to visit as long as you dress properly. Have a look at my main article on where to go in Switzerland for ideas. You can see the main highlights in the Interlaken area in 3 days or so, and 2 more days in Lucerne is enough to see the other main highlights.
If this is your first visit to Europe I’d probably head to Italy, and you can actually take a train from Interlaken to Venice in a reasonable time along a beautiful route. November in Italy is still fairly warm and usually pretty dry so it’s a great time to be able to see the main sights without the insane crowds of summer. The standard “Big 3” trip to Italy is 3 nights in Rome, 2 or 3 nights in Florence, and 1 or 2 nights in Venice.
Or you could go to Spain, which is even a bit warmer, but I really think Italy is more interesting for a first visit and more people there speak some English. I hope this gives you some ideas. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi Roger, thanks for your prompt response. Please advise any alternative to Amsterdam? How about some place in Switzerland or Barcelona? (considering days, cost and weather) – Nav
Nav,
You could spend 3 or 4 days in Switzerland and I’d focus on the Interlaken area for most or all of that. That article should help you plan something you’ll enjoy. Or you could go to Barcelona, which is definitely a great city with plenty to see. The reason I mentioned Amsterdam is that it’s a top destination AND it’s easy to travel between all of those cities on trains in a few hours or less. Flying is definitely less enjoyable and more stressful than train travel, but of course it opens up more options.
If you choose Switzerland you could fly from London to Zurich and then take trains within Switzerland, and then take the train from there to Paris. If you choose Barcelona you could fly from London to Barcelona and then take the 6-hour train ride from there to Paris. It takes about the same amount of time as flying when you factor in airport transportation and security and all of that, but the train is more enjoyable and the scenery going through France is pretty good. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger
Hi roger,
Im planning a European getaway between 14 to 18 of november with a 2.5 months old baby. We want to visit Amsterdam but afraid its gonna be too cold. What is your recommendation for a nice weekend in Europe?
Neta,
If you are only planning on going to Europe for a 4-day weekend I will assume that you are already pretty close to Europe. Amsterdam definitely will be fairly chilly in November and it gets dark pretty early that time of year as well. If you are looking for somewhere a bit warmer I’d have to say Barcelona or Lisbon might be your best bets. Barcelona has been very crowded in summers lately, but in November the crowds won’t be too bad and the weather is pretty mild. Lisbon should be even a bit warmer and it’s a wonderful city for a short visit like that. I hope this helps at least a bit. Let me know if you have any other questions. -Roger