Where is hot in November in Europe
By Mark Hodson, Sunday Times Travel Writer
Where’s hot in November, and where can you travel in 2020? Normally at this time of year, European resorts are closing after a long busy season, but this year is different. Many are staying open longer, and in the southern Mediterranean you can still expect temperatures of 20ºC.
However, the Canaries and Madeira are now arguably the best prospect. From 25 October 2020, you can travel to Madeira, the Canary Islands, the Azores and Greece without the need to quarantine.
Where’s hot in Europe in November
| Country | Destination | Average highs | Average hours of sun |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spain | Canaries | 23°C | 7 hours |
| Portugal | Madeira | 22°C | 6 hours |
| Portugal | The Azores | 20°C | 5 hours |
| Greece | Kos | 20°C | 6 hours |
| Cyprus | Cyprus | 22°C | 7 hours |
| UK | Gibraltar | 19°C | 5 hours |
| Spain | Seville | 20°C | 6 hours |
| Malta | Valletta | 21°C | 7 hours |
1. Canary Islands
Average highs in November: 23ºC
Average daily sunshine: 7 hours
Flying time from UK: 4 hours
We also strongly recommend the Canary Islands in November, which enjoy similar temperatures to Madeira. If you want a beach holiday, Tenerife fits the bill, but the island also has mountains to hike up, dolphin-watching, watersports, great golf and a wide choice of accommodation. It ranges from luxury hotels to family-friendly hotels and more intimate hotels too. See the latest special offers.
2. Madeira
Average highs in November: 22ºC
Average daily sunshine: 6 hours
Flying time from UK: 4 hours
The Portuguese island of Madeira is the perfect choice for winter sun if you want to avoid the risk of quarantine. This lush mountainous sub-tropical outpost has outstanding hotels, walking trails and botanical gardens. You can also stay in beautiful restored country estates such as Quintinha Sao Joao and Quinta da Bela Vista.
3. The Azores
Average highs in November: 20ºC
Average daily sunshine: 5 hours
Flying time from UK: 4 hours
The Azores are a group of nine Portuguese volcanic islands in the Atlantic. Not as well known as the Canary Islands, they are stunningly beautiful. Great for hiking and sightseeing and one of the best places in Europe for whale and dolphin spotting. You can also opt for island hopping itinerary or a walking or cycling holiday.
4. Kos
Average highs in November: 20ºC
Average daily sunshine: 6 hours
Flying time from UK: 3 hours 45 minutes
Close to the Turkish coastline, Kos is one of the most southerly of the Greek islands with a warm autumn climate. There’s a lot to see and do with archaeological sites, a booming wine industry and many luxury hotels to choose from, including the good-value five-star all-inclusive Ikos Aria.
5. Cyprus
Average highs in December: 22ºC
Average daily sunshine: 7 hours
Flying time from UK: 4 hours 30 minutes
November is a wonderful time of year to visit Cyprus, with low rainfall and temperatures in the low 20s. You can laze in the sun around the swimming pool, and this is also a great season for hiking, though there are plenty of other holiday experiences to be had. The island is also big enough to make a fly-drive a good option.
6. Gibraltar
Average highs in November: 19ºC
Average daily sunshine: 5 hours
Flying time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes
Perched between southern Spain and North Africa, Gibraltar has a mild winter climate and is a good spot from which to explore both places. You can also travel there without the need for quarantine. On average there are eight days of rain in November, but on the bright side there’s an average of five hours of sunshine daily. Although known as a British enclave, Gibraltar actually has a rich multi-cultural history, and several swish hotels if you simply want to relax and indulge.
7. Seville
Average highs in November: 20ºC
Average daily sunshine: 6 hours
Flying time from UK: 2 hours 45 minutes
If it’s a city break in the sun that you’re looking for then in November it’s hard to beat southern Spain and in particular Seville. (However, Spain is currently still under travel restrictions). The weather is warm but not too hot for sightseeing, and although there’s an average of seven rainy days this month, Seville also has plenty of museums and an impressive cathedral to explore. It also has superb food, and it will be warm enough for an al fresco lunch, with atmospheric tapas bars to dive into when the cooler evenings come around.
8. Malta and Gozo
Average highs in November: 21ºC
Average daily sunshine: 7 hours
Flying time from UK: 3 hours 30 minutes
Malta and its neighbouring island of Gozo is a good choice for a November break as it has some of the warmest average temperatures in the Mediterranean with plenty of long, sunny days. It does also have an average of 13 days on which you will see some rain, although the total rainfall is quite light. You will need something warm to wear in the evenings. Malta is an easy island to explore and has a wealth of historical sites, while Gozo will appeal more to those who want a more rural getaway.
See what weather to expect in Europe in other winter months:
October | November | December | January | February | March | April
Up to 40% off your next winter sun holiday
* Did you know you can save up to 40% on holiday prices? See all the latest deals.We publish new deals most weeks and you can get them delivered to your inbox by entering your email address below.
Last updated: 23 October 2020
