November in Europe marks the shift from autumn to winter, bringing shorter days, colder temperatures, and an increasing chance of rain and snow. The weather in Europe in November varies greatly across different regions. Western and Northern Europe see frequent rain and overcast skies, while Eastern and Central Europe become chilly with early snowfall in the mountains. Southern Europe, though cooler than October, still has comfortable temperatures for sightseeing, and beach destinations like the Canary Islands remain warm enough for sunbathing.
This is a great time for budget travelers since airfare and hotel prices drop significantly after the October tourism season. Christmas markets begin opening in late November, creating a festive atmosphere in many European cities. However, some summer-oriented destinations (like the Greek Islands) shut down for the off-season, and outdoor activities in the mountains become limited as hiking trails close in preparation for the winter ski season.
1. Southern Europe in November
Countries: Spain, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Southern France, Croatia, Malta, Canary Islands
Southern Europe remains one of the warmest regions in Europe in November, though temperatures drop compared to October. Expect daytime highs between 10°C and 20°C (50°F - 68°F), with cooler evenings. Rainfall increases as winter approaches, particularly in Italy, Spain, and Southern France, but the Mediterranean still has pockets of sunshine, especially in Portugal and the Canary Islands.
Strong winds become more common, especially along the French Riviera, Greek islands, and Portugal’s Atlantic coast, making it less ideal for beach activities but great for storm-watching and surfing. Snow is unlikely in the lowlands but may begin appearing in the Pyrenees, Alps, and Apennines.
November is one of the last months to explore cities like Rome, Athens, Seville, and Lisbon in comfortable weather before winter sets in. Wine regions in Tuscany and Porto continue harvesting, and early Christmas festivities start in Spain and Italy. However, many beach resorts and island destinations (e.g., Mykonos, Ibiza, and Amalfi Coast) shut down for the off-season, with fewer ferry services and closed hotels.
2. Western Europe in November
Countries: France, UK, Ireland, Belgium, Netherlands
Western Europe enters full autumn mode in November, with increasing rain and cooler temperatures. Expect daytime temperatures between 5°C and 15°C (41°F - 59°F), with frequent cloudy and wet days. London, Paris, and Amsterdam experience misty mornings and drizzly afternoons, creating a cozy atmosphere for café culture and museum visits.
Coastal areas like Brittany in France, Cornwall in the UK, and the Netherlands’ North Sea shores become windier, making them popular for storm-watching and coastal walks. While it rarely snows in November, the Alps and Pyrenees begin accumulating snow, marking the early start of ski season in higher-altitude resorts.
3. Central Europe in November
Countries: Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary
Central Europe welcomes colder temperatures, with daytime highs between 0°C and 10°C (32°F - 50°F). Rainfall is moderate, but foggy mornings and early snowfalls in mountainous areas become common. By mid-to-late November, ski resorts in Switzerland and Austria begin opening, while cities like Vienna, Prague, and Budapest light up with early Christmas markets. The Danube River Valley, Black Forest, and Bavarian Alps display their final autumn colors before winter sets in.
4. Northern Europe in November
Countries: Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Scotland
Northern Europe enters deep autumn and early winter, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 7°C (23°F - 45°F). Snowfall increases in Norway, Sweden, and Finland, while Scotland and Denmark experience heavy rain and strong winds. The Northern Lights become visible across the Arctic Circle, making November one of the best months for aurora hunting before the extreme cold of winter. While daylight hours become shorter, cozy cafés, saunas, and Viking history museums provide indoor escapes.
5. Eastern Europe in November
Countries: Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Baltic States, Hungary, Poland
Eastern Europe experiences its first true winter chill, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 12°C (28°F - 54°F). Snowfall begins in the Carpathians and Tatra Mountains, while Bucharest, Budapest, and Krakow remain cool but not yet freezing. Late autumn colors remain in some regions, making this a beautiful time for castle tours in Romania and Poland. Thermal baths in Hungary and Bulgaria offer a relaxing escape from the cold.
November in Europe is a fantastic time for budget travelers, early winter lovers, and those looking to avoid the crowds. While the weather is cooler and wetter, the lower prices, early Christmas markets, and fewer tourists make it an excellent time to explore.
