Germany in November is magic! It’s the start of winter and you will feel like you have walked into a Christmas fairytale. The forests get covered in snow and there’s a wonderful chill in the air. The outdoors look great and the indoors are warm and cozy. And the best part of this month is that there are barely any tourist crowds, so you can enjoy Germany’s best attractions at your own pace. So, if you are heading to Germany this winter, you are in for a treat. Let the following information be your guide for a fun and wonderful vacation.
Is November a good time to visit Germany?
Compared to all other winter months, it is the best time to visit Germany. It is not very cold. Just some warm layers and you won’t even feel the chill when you are exploring the outdoors. Another pro of visiting Germany in November is the lack of crowds. Usually, Germany is packed with tourists, making it difficult to properly enjoy the attractions but in November, you have a free run. November is also the month of offers. Tourism-related businesses give out many offers and discounts meant to attract tourists in this off-season month. So, this is also a good chance to save money as Germany can be expensive.
Weather in Germany in November
Germany temperature in November is not as cold as in December and January. The winter is just settling in, so the temperatures are at the bearable range. The days are short and the nights are longer, but the temperature ranges different from region to region. The internal regions are cool and may experience snowing, but the coastal region is relatively warmer and may experience rainfall. For a more detailed look at the weather, here’s some information:
- Temperature: Low – 8°C, High – 2°C
- Humidity: Around 83%
- Chance of Rain: 45% chance
- Daylight Hours: 8.5 to 9.5 hours
- Sunrise: Around 07:28 AM
- Sunset: Around 15:58 PM
Things to do in Germany in November
Even though this is the end of autumn and the start of the winter, there are still many things to do in Germany in November. You will never feel you are short of activities to do that are unique to this wonderful month.
Christmas Markets
Germany is famous for its legendary Christmas markets. From eye-catching decorations and Christmas trees to seasonal wines, and delicious cakes, you can find everything that will make your Christmas merry. These markets become the epicenters for everything related to Christmas, so you are guaranteed to return with bags full of goodies. Most markets start in the latter half of November, so plan your visit accordingly. The Essen International Christmas market starts on the 15th of November, so a lot of early shoppers crowd this amazing place. Another market that starts early is the Cologne Christmas market. This place sees shoppers in the millions. Other markets worth visiting are Leipzig Christmas Market, Trier Christmas Market, Nuremberg Christmas Market, and Frankfurt Christmas Market.
Take a Wine Tour
Even though September and October are peak wine tour months, November is also an ideal month. Many wineries are still open, catering to the tourists who choose to come in the off-season. There’s just something about taking that first sip of wine on a cold day and feeling the warmth spread from your heart. So, when you are here, you have to choose from Germany’s 13 wine regions. Take tours of the winery, taste the wines and delicious food, and see wonderful sites nearby while traveling on foot. Try the white wine of Mosel, pinot noir in Ahr and Baden, local reds of Württemberg, or the diverse flavors of Riesling – all of them are amazing!
Explore WWII History
Everyone knows Germany’s role in WWII, and despite their dark past, Germany has many WWII sites preserved as a reminder of past mistakes. There are many tours you can choose from like the Berlin WWII Tour that’s conducted by professionals. In this, witness the remnant effects of the war like bullet holes and blast sites as the tours take you on a history lesson that showcases the reality of what happened in Berlin. Another must-see tour is the Sachsenhausen Tour which takes you to the concentration camp where you can realize the gravity of what happened. This is also a guided tour. Other prominent tours that may interest you are Munich-Berchtesgaden & Eagle’s Nest Day Tour, Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site & Third Reich Walking Tour, and Nuremberg Medieval Old Town & Nazi Rally Grounds Walking Tour. You’ll be a changed person after these tours.
Snow Sports
This is the best time to enjoy snow sports before the crowds of December come in. All skiers and snowboarders migrate to Germany’s tallest mountain, Zugspitze to catch the best slopes. If you want to do sledding, Lake Tegernsee is where you should head to enjoy one of the longest sled runs. Harz Mountains and Allgäu are other great options for skiers. But if you want something more slow-paced, November also marks the opening of ice rinks across the country. Here, you can enjoy the skating experience safely and gorge on amazing fast food. All the ski and sled places are also blessed with natural beauty, so even if you don’t want to do something adventurous, just sit back and take in the views.
Castle Tours
Germany’s castles are so beautiful that touring them will leave you awestruck. Some amazing, professionally guided tours are on offer that take you to amazing castles throughout the country. The Marksburg Castle in Braubach has a rich history going back to 800 years. Similarly, the Stolzenfels on the Rhine River in Koblenz also has a great history and was also used as a toll station for travel on the river. The Burg Eltz Castle in Wierschem is still looked after by the same family that constructed this massive beauty, and of course, you cannot miss the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle that has lent its silhouette to the Disney company as their logo. This castle looks like it has come out of a storybook. It’s a must-see. The castles of Germany are a class apart from their amazing architecture. Many even have museums that tell their stories.
Places to See in Germany in November
There are a few best places to see in Germany in November that just cannot be missed if you want to truly experience Germany. These places are unique German and showcase everything that is amazing and revered about this country.
Here are those must-see places:
Berlin
The capital city is also the tourism capital with so many amazing things on offer. So, when you are here, it will be hard to do and see everything but there are a few things you must do. Experience history at Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall Memorial as they are places where you can learn of the divide between West and East Germany. The beautiful Brandenburg Gate is a centuries-old monument marking the trade road to Brandenburg, and the Altes Museum and Pergamon Museum hold all the important relics of Berlin’s history. Berlin also has a reputation of being one the most scenic river cruise destinations in the world thanks to the Spree River cruises and canal cruises that are amazing. You should try these cruises. And of course, you cannot forget the amazing Christmas Markets that pop up late in November. Shopping here is an experience in itself.
Regensburg
If medieval architecture and history excite you, then you must see Regensburg. The Old Town in the city, owing to its building and architecture, has been granted UNESCO Heritage status. Here, you can check out sites like Haidplatz Square, the Old Stone Bridge, and the stunning and marvelous St. Peter’s Cathedral. Regensburg is built over the Danube River, so there are cruises as well that you can take to enjoy amazing views of the city. St. Emmeram’s Abbey is another great, must-see site along with Porta Praetoria, the old Roman Gate ruins. Regensburg is also known for delicious Bavarian cuisine which you can find in the many restaurants and cafes in the city. This unique city is a welcome change from the huge metropolitan cities.
Munich
If a great mix of culture, technology, art, and fun is what you want, Munich should be your go-to city. Start with exploring Alte Pinakothek, a gallery that holds some of the finest art from the past three centuries. Then head to the Deutsches Museum, which is one of the best technology museums in the world. And don’t forget the BMW Museum, which is a museum dedicated to the legendary car brand. The Beer Gardens and Englischer Garten are great places to enjoy the outdoors, and Nymphenburg Palace is a wonderful monument of the city’s history. Munich has amazing food, shopping places, and entertainment avenues, it has everything for a fun vacation.
Black Forest
The inspiration behind many fairytales and fables, the Black Forest in Germany is a legendary place that is also a fun tourist destination. In November, the leaves turn green and the peaks see snowfall, making it a scenic place. Here, you can check out the Triberg Waterfalls, and the hiking trails of Bade-Baden and Freiburg. The forest also has villages that look like they have been frozen in time. They are gorgeous and will make you feel like you have walked into a story. Some of these villages are spa towns where you can get spa treatments to feel good. Black Forest is also famous for the Black Forest Cake and Cuckoo Clocks, so don’t leave without eating the cake or buying a clock as a souvenir. A tour through here will make you realize why it is so magical.
Island of Rügen
When people think of a vacation in Germany, they rarely think of islands, beaches, coastal towns, and seafood, but Germany has one of the best island vacation destinations in the world, the Island of Rügen. Apart from world-class beaches and picturesque coastlines, the islands have many things worth exploring like the Putbus town with its lovely gorgeous parks and remarkable neoclassical architecture. Cape Arkona with its lighthouses and Slavic ruins is another place worth seeing. You can also spend time in idyllic towns like Göhren, Sellin, and Binz, where you can enjoy delicious seafood and relax at the many wellness hotels and spa towns. The Island of Rügen is a wonderful place to see and will uplift your vacation.
Germany Festivals and Events in November
Celebrate German culture and its many offerings by being a part of the many events & festivals in Germany in November. They are fun and a great way to understand the beauty, preferences, and lifestyle of the local people.
Festivals in Germany in November
Feel the warmth in this cold season by being a part of the festivals in Germany in November. Winter is coming in and there are a few festivals that celebrate this season:
JazzFest Berlin
Come, and support all the local jazz musicians while enjoying performances of the best international artists at JazzFest Berlin. This festival has been around for a long time and has given the world many artists. You can grab a seat at the many convenient venues across Berlin to be a part of the festival.
When: 31st October to 3rd November
Location: Berlin
Martinus-Weinfest
Held in the memory of St. Martin of Tours, this festival is the celebration of the end of the harvest season and the start of the winter. It is also a wine festival where lots of wines and delicious foods are served. Children dress up in various costumes and take part in a parade led by St. Martin on a horse. This is a fun, community festival very similar to Halloween, and everyone’s invited.
When: 8th November to 10 November, 2024
Location: Rhineland-Palatinate
Hamburg Winter DOM Festival
3 times a year, the DOM festival is held in Hamburg. This is a funfair with many food stalls, games, rides, and even fireworks. Yes, every Friday night, the festival closes with fireworks. This is a public festival so anyone can come here to have a great time. This is the perfect place for families, so you should check it out.
When: 8th November to 8th December, 2024
Location: Hamburg
Events in Germany in November
There are a few events in Germany in November that are a mix of religion and national importance. You can be a part of them and experience real German culture.
All Saints’ Day
Allerheiligen or All Saints’ Day is celebrated by many German Catholics who mostly live in the southern region of Germany. This is a day of prayer and many then go and visit their relatives and ancestors’ graves for a prayer. The cities and towns that celebrate this usually have a holiday. It’s a peaceful day.
When: 1st November
Location: All Over Germany
Berlin Wall Anniversary
This is the day when the Berlin Wall fell uniting East and West Germany forever. Every year, in remembrance of this day, many events are held at historically prominent locations of the Berlin Wall that still remain. This day is full of history and patriotism and many Germans gather to celebrate.
When: 9th November
Location: Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin Wall Memorial, and Brandenburg Gate
Travel Tips to Visit Germany in November
The following travel tips are specific for November. It will help you properly plan your trip and have a worry-free and hassle-free time:
- Since the days are shorter, some attractions might close early. Check timings before booking anything.
- Pack more indoor activities as there can be weather disruptions. Check out the best museums, galleries, castles, spa retreats, etc.
- Most Christmas markets start late in the month, so if you want to experience them, adjust your dates accordingly.
- Hunt for discounts and offers that will help you save money on stays, flights, and tours.
- When you are packing, account for the weather of the month, so you have the right things on hand, and won’t have to run around buying new stuff.
Things to Know Before Visit Germany in November
What to pack for Germany in November?
Since the weather is on the colder side and spells of rain and snow are also expected, pack warm clothes with multiple layers, pack umbrellas, and weatherproof footwear. Other than that, carry your important documents, medicines, accessories, compatible chargers for smart devices, and a money belt.
What to wear in Germany in November?
Layers, layers, and more layers. This month is when the cold starts to set in, so you have to wear thick clothes that will keep you warm. Daytime temperatures are good, so just some layers are good enough for you to get out and enjoy outdoor activities and attractions.
Getting around in Germany in November
Since the tourist crowds are low, there will be no rush and Germany’s public transport will feel like a breeze. The country has excellent transport connectivity through trains and buses. There are special cards that you can use for train journeys as well. Taxis are also available with proper rate cards and standardized fares.
What to eat in Germany in November?
The cold weather calls for some special meals and dishes that make use of seasonal ingredients. Kartoffelsuppe is a potato soup that goes straight to the soul. You can also try Sauerbraten, which is a type of hearty pot roast. And don’t forget to try Käsespätzle, which is Germany’s cheesiest past. Christmas-related goodies are also something worth trying.
Where to stay in Germany in November?
Lack of crowds means that you will have a rich choice when it comes to stay options. From hotels and resorts to homestays and backpacker lodges, you can choose whatever suits your budget and desire. You can even get good discounts during this month.
FAQs about Visiting Germany in November
The following FAQs about visiting Germany in November are going to impart even more information that will help you plan your vacation:
1. What temperatures should one expect in Germany?
Germany weather in November is on the colder side but it is still not a full-fledged winter. The temperatures are a lot cooler in the subsequent months. Therefore, just some high-quality warm clothing will allow you to get out and enjoy Germany.
2. Are all attractions open and activities available in Germany in November?
Yes, most attractions and activities are available. While attractions may have fewer operating hours owing to shorter days, most are open. Activities like hiking and biking are available in only a few places where winter hasn’t set in.
3. Why November over other months?
The country has minimal tourist crowds in November. There are special winter festivals and activities to enjoy, and there are lower prices all around. The only thing you might have to contend with is rain and snow and the cold temperatures. But the right rain and winter wear are enough for you to go outdoors.
4. Do Christmas Markets start in November?
Yes, most Christmas Markets in Germany start in the latter half of November, so make sure you know the dates while planning your trip. These markets are amazing and one of the most cherished experiences of the winter season.
5. Can I enjoy the beaches in Germany in November?
Some beaches in the southern region might be okay for a swim, but the waters will be cold. So, it would be better to indulge in other activities that are just as relaxing like spa and wellness treatments, which are available all over the country.
Though the weather in Germany in November is not the best, the other positive factors outweigh the negatives completely. However, there are many tourists who would love the cold weather and fairytale-like snow-capped hills and castle rooftops of Germany. This month is also easy on the pocket. So, if you have always wanted to see Germany, but don’t like the crowds and high prices of the tourist season, come here in November and have a great time.
