November:
France / Italy / Scotland
France
You have been dreaming of France, but the flight fares ain’t cheap. But France in November? Yes. Why? You may ask.
The answer: Shoulder Season. The weather is good enough to walk and go sightseeing. You can save your flight earnings on fine dining and expect shorter lines at the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.
Have the vast vineyards of Bordeaux all to yourself and stroll along the French Riviera in peace. Savour the fall colours that brighten the countryside & parks and enjoy the cultural festivities that November brings. The Armistice Day honours the armed forces who were martyred in World War 1 and is celebrated nationwide on November 11.
For the gourmands, there are several wine tasting festivals like The Bordeaux So good festival, celebrating regional food and wine, The Hospices de Beaune Wine Auction in Burgundy, The Beaujolais Nouveau Festival, and the Lyon Chocolate Fair .
For music lovers there is the annual C’est pas Classique, a three day classical music event and for the shoppers there are Christmas markets spreading cheer and the Fine Art and Antiques Fair in Toulouse.
Spend more time in cafes and museums and enjoy the beauty of France, sans the crowds!
Italy
One of the most gorgeous destinations of Europe is just like gelato: It can be savoured all year round. Be it idyllic villages, blue beaches or delectable cuisine with Pasta and wine, this charming country has it all! From historic monuments like the leaning tower of Pisa, ancient cities like Pompeii, romantic towns like Venice to natural sea caves or Grottos like Blue Grotto in Capri.
Plan a trip in November and save up on cheap airfares and hotel tariff, get the opportunity to explore Italy without the hustle bustle, as most tourists frequent it in the summers and take part in truffle fairs!
Visit the fishing villages of Cinque Terre off season, without the mad rush of tourists and soak in the laid back vibes. Explore Milan in autumn, when the weather is not humid and the city is abuzz with events and shows.
Head to Southern Italy to experience the beauty of the Sicily countryside. There is enough sun to visit beaches and swim with snow covered Alps in the distance. Visit Le Marche to get the best of beaches including Senigallia beach and mountains like Mount Conero as you relax on an Italian beach with gorgeous views.
Scotland
Autumn foliage, yellow hills, the winter chill and lots of festivals, Scotland comes alive with events in November - from the Halloween Pumpkin Trail with hidden pumpkins to the Festival of Wine in Edinburgh. For theatre lovers there is Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, the longest running show in the history of theatre and for Whisky connoisseurs there is the Glasgow’s Whisky Festival.
For the ultimate Christmas experience with Santa’s reindeer gardens, the Great Scottish Santa run, Winter wonderland and Christmas markets, head to Edinburgh.
The days are shorter so take a guided, organised tour to see more attractions in lesser time.
In Glasgow, visit the Glengoyne distillery, Tennent’s Wellpark brewery and the majestic Cathedral. Explore the Buchanan Street for shopping, great food, and lively street performers.
In Edinburgh, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Edinburgh Castle. Harry Potter lovers can take a Harry Potter walking tour and the haunted underground vaults of Edinburg.
Do a Castle hopping tour, along scenic landscapes and visit the Glamis castle - cited to be Scotland’s best, the Stirling castle - perched on a hill and the Urquhart Castle at Loch Ness to spot the Loch Ness Monster!