Where to Travel Between November and January: A Guide for Older Adults

Traveling in the late fall and heart of winter can feel like a small miracle. Crowds thin out. Prices relax. The light gets softer, and people get kinder. If you’ve been thinking, “Is this the year I plan something just for me?”—honestly, yes. This guide rounds up comfortable, culture-rich, and senior-friendly places to visit from November through January, plus practical tips to help the trip feel easy from start to finish.

Holiday sparkle and mild weather in the U.S.

St. Augustine, Florida — a gentle glow you’ll remember

When folks talk about holiday lights, St. Augustine belongs in the same sentence as Europe’s famous markets. The historic district shimmers during the city’s “Nights of Lights,” running this season from November 15, 2025 through January 11, 2026. That’s not a typo—two months of nightly lights you can enjoy at your pace, on foot or by trolley. Confirm dates and details with the city and local tourism pages: Florida’s Historic Coast, the City of St. Augustine, and Visit St. Augustine. If you prefer to sit back, several boat and trolley tours operate nightly; one popular option is the Old Town Trolley Nights of Lights Tour.

What’s the draw for seniors? The compact historic core is mostly flat; restaurants keep later hours; and you can enjoy the scene without long walks if that’s your style. Do layer a light jacket—coastal evenings can bring a little nip.

San Diego, California — soft sun, seaside walks, easy days

San Diego is a safe bet for gentle winter warmth, waterfront strolls, and easy logistics. The official visitor portal is a handy trip-planning start: San Diego Tourism Authority. You’re spoiled for choices: harbor cruises, Balboa Park museums, and relaxing afternoons in Coronado. The vibe is unhurried—just the way you might want it. And if you like official references, the City’s own leisure page underscores why San Diego stays popular year-round: City of San Diego Leisure.

Palm Springs & Scottsdale — desert calm, starry skies

November through January is prime time in the Sonoran and Colorado deserts, with clear air and crisp nights. In Palm Springs, the famous Aerial Tramway whisks you to alpine views in minutes; winter hours and senior pricing are easy to check (hours of operation, tickets). Is it accessible? The tram cars and stations are ADA-compliant according to the tram’s FAQ: About the Tram.

Across in Scottsdale, the McDowell Sonoran Preserve offers graded, barrier-free trails like the Bajada Nature Trail and Jane Rau Trail. Start planning with the City’s preserve page (City of Scottsdale) and the Conservancy’s trail info (McDowell Sonoran Conservancy). You can also browse Scottsdale’s accessible trail suggestions here: Experience Scottsdale.

Everglades & Death Valley — winter is the comfortable window

Love nature but want reasonable temps? The Everglades dry season runs roughly November through April, with mild days and thinner mosquitoes (bless that wind). The National Park Service spells it out: Everglades Dry Season and Basic Info. On the West Coast, winter brings cool, clear days to Death Valley—wild, beautiful, and surprisingly peaceful. NPS has a simple seasonal guide: Death Valley Seasons. If you’re a photographer, that low winter sun paints the badlands like a master’s brush.

Warm islands, whales, and easy flights

Puerto Rico — tropical warmth, no passport needed for U.S. citizens

If you want warm breezes without a long flight or passport hassle, Puerto Rico is a sweet spot. Older adults love Old San Juan’s colorful lanes, the gentle pace of beach towns, and the music drifting out of plazas at night. Start with the official resource: Discover Puerto Rico. The holidays run long here—great food, parrandas, and plenty of light displays. You know what? The energy is infectious in the best way.

Hawaiʻi — whale songs and winter sunshine

Winter is humpback whale season around Maui and the Big Island. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary notes the season runs roughly November through May, with peak viewing mid-winter. Even without whales, winter often brings calm mornings for beach walks and garden visits. Bring a light layer—trade winds can add a gentle chill after sunset.

Culture-rich getaways close to home

Savannah & Charleston — slow strolls, deep flavor

Savannah moves at a kind pace, with history squares, shady live oaks, and holiday cheer. For seasonal fun, browse Visit Savannah’s events and their winter roundups (Top Winter Events, Holly Days). Charleston pairs cobblestones with coastal air and a calendar filled with performances and lighted parades: check the Charleston CVB events calendar and City holiday notices (City of Charleston holiday update). Expect cool mornings, soft afternoons, and plenty of porch swings.

Low-stress international choices

Canary Islands, Spain — “permanent spring” in Europe

If you’re curious about Europe but want warm days, the Canary Islands are a rare winter treat. The official site calls January weather comfortable for outdoor strolls and even New Year’s swims: Hello Canary Islands — January. Gran Canaria’s tourism board will help you plan beaches, gentle walks, and star-gazing nights: Gran Canaria Tourism. Accessibility matters? The region highlights beach access and adapted services: Accessible Canary Islands.

Algarve, Portugal — mild, scenic, unhurried

Winter in the Algarve feels like a long exhale. It’s cooler and quieter, but—crucially—still bright and walkable. Portugal’s official tourism site notes the Algarve’s sunny climate with mild weather year-round: Visit Portugal — Algarve. Expect fewer crowds on clifftop paths, easy museum visits, and long lunches that somehow stretch into golden hour.

Andalusia, Spain — patios, tapas, and blue-sky days

Seville and Málaga in winter? Lovely. The regional tourism office describes a warm Mediterranean climate with mild winters: Andalusia Climate. For weather nerds (raises hand), Spain’s national meteorological agency lists January averages at Seville Airport if you want specifics: AEMET — Seville climate norms. Pack a light sweater and wander at will; museums and courtyards feel especially serene now.

Morocco — gentle winter days, cozy evenings

Morocco’s winter days are often sunny and comfortable, especially in cities like Marrakech and coastal Essaouira. Evenings can get chilly, so a warm layer is smart. For a quick primer, this month-by-month guide helps set expectations: Morocco in January and Morocco in November. If you’ve always wanted to wander a souk without the summer heat, this is your moment.

Japan’s winter illuminations — light shows that warm the heart

Japan goes big on winter lights. Near Nagoya, Nabana no Sato hosts a vast illumination from late October into spring; listings for the 2025–2026 season run Oct 18, 2025 to May 31, 2026: Japan Travel — Nabana no Sato and Japan National Tourism Organization. In Tokyo, many neighborhoods sparkle through January and into February; Marunouchi’s lighting is a favorite: Marunouchi Winter Illuminations. These nights are more meander than marathon—perfect for an early dinner, a stroll, and a late tea.

New Zealand — summer when we have winter

If you’d like to trade coats for cardigans, December–February is summer in Aotearoa. The official site highlights long, sunny days and easy outdoor time: 100% Pure New Zealand — Climate & Weather, and Seasons in New Zealand. Yes, it’s peak season, which means higher demand and more smiles at every scenic overlook. Book earlier than you think you need, especially for ferries and trains.

Dubai — sunshine, modern comforts, and smooth logistics

Winter delivers pleasant temps and easy touring in Dubai. The official guide has timely ideas for November and winter planning: Visit Dubai — November. If you like clean, barrier-free museums and transit, you’ll feel at home here.

Festive corridors and softly lit squares

Classic European Christmas markets (late Nov–Dec)

Markets usually run from late November into December, with a few stretching to early January. Two standouts with official dates posted:

• Nuremberg, Germany: November 28 to December 24, 2025 — the storied Christkindlesmarkt. See the official site: Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.
• Vienna, Austria: multiple markets citywide, with the main Rathausplatz market set for November 14, 2025 to January 6, 2026. Details at wien.info.

Pro tip for seniors: book a centrally located hotel and visit markets mid-afternoon on weekdays. You’ll skip the biggest crowds and still see the magic as the lights come on.

Northern Lights in Tromsø, Norway (Nov–Jan)

Tromsø calls itself the “capital of the Arctic” and, for aurora seekers, that’s fair. The Visit Tromsø team notes northern lights season (roughly Sept–Apr), with the polar night (continuous darkness) from late November to January—excellent for aurora hunting, fjord cruising, or a Sami culture visit. Read their simple overview: Visit Tromsø — Northern Lights and Polar Night.

Nature’s rhythm: weather notes for peace of mind

Two quick weather reminders that are actually helpful:

• Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30. Early November Caribbean trips are usually fine, but keep one eye on forecasts. Here’s the official seasonal window from NOAA: NOAA Hurricanes.
• Everglades “dry” season is roughly November–April; trails and wildlife viewing are easier then. Read more at the NPS links above.

Gentle adventures with a cultural twist

Oaxaca, Mexico — holiday traditions with mild days

December and January in Oaxaca are comfortable, with cool evenings and sunny afternoons. If you’re there on December 23, you can witness the whimsical “Night of the Radishes,” a one-evening festival of radish carvings that’s been delighting visitors for over a century. Curious? These explain the tradition and timing: Night of the Radishes (overview) and Night of the Radishes (reference). Wear comfy shoes and bring patience—the lines can be long, but the cheer is real.

Costa Rica — dry season begins, wildlife is active

December marks the start of the dry season in many parts of Costa Rica, and that means clear mornings, greener hills, and easier travel days. The national tourism site says it plainly: Visit Costa Rica (the dry season generally runs December–April). Bring binoculars; you won’t regret it.

Comfort hacks for older travelers (that actually help)

Airport help that makes a difference

• TSA Cares: Call 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before flying for screening support, questions about mobility aids, and more: TSA Cares.
• Airline disability rights: The U.S. DOT’s passenger Bill of Rights for travelers with disabilities is a clear, empowering guide: DOT Bill of Rights.

Senior-friendly ways to get around

• Amtrak discounts: Travelers 65+ save on many routes (60+ on some Northeast Corridor trains). Check the official offer: Amtrak Seniors Save.
• National Parks Senior Pass: If you plan to visit a few parks this year, the pass pays for itself fast: NPS Senior Pass.

Health & safety, kept simple

• Vaccines & meds: The CDC’s page for older travelers gives straightforward guidance on seasonal vaccines, medicines, and packing a health kit: CDC: Traveling with Older Adults.
• Going abroad? Enroll in the State Department’s program so a local embassy can reach you in an emergency: STEP Enrollment.

Quick-hit itineraries for November–January

• “Lights & Leisure” (4–5 days): Fly into Jacksonville or Orlando; spend two nights in St. Augustine for the lights, then two nights in Savannah for museums and a riverfront walk (see Light-Up! Night and Savannah events).
• “Desert Calm” (1 week): Split time between Palm Springs (tramway ride, mid-century architecture) and Scottsdale (ADA-friendly trails, art). Reference: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Scottsdale Preserve.
• “Warm Islands, Easy Pace” (5–7 days): Base in San Juan for plazas, forts, and cafes, with a beach day in Condado or Isla Verde. Start at Discover Puerto Rico.
• “European Springtime in Winter” (7–10 days): Pick one Canary Island—say Gran Canaria or Tenerife—and settle in for sun and coastal walks. See Canary Islands in Winter and Gran Canaria Tourism.
• “Holiday Lights, Japanese Style” (6–8 days): Fly into Tokyo, enjoy early evenings at illuminated districts like Marunouchi, then hop to Nagoya for Nabana no Sato. See Marunouchi Illuminations and Nabana no Sato.

Choosing your trip: a simple way to decide

Here’s the thing: you might be choosing between “mild and cultural” versus “warm and beachy.” A quick rule of thumb helps:

• I want gentle temps + easy walking: Savannah/Charleston, St. Augustine, San Diego, the Algarve, Andalusia, Morocco’s cities, or the Canary Islands.
• I want real winter sights without bitter cold: Everglades (dry season), Death Valley (cool days), Tromsø (for auroras, dress warmly and book a guide who uses heated vans).
• I want tropical blue: Puerto Rico, Hawaiʻi, Costa Rica’s Pacific coast (December–January).
• I want a summer break in winter: New Zealand.

Gentle planning tips that save energy

• Pick the heart of the city for 3- to 5-night stays. It shrinks walking, keeps food and culture steps away, and turns “Let’s call it a day” into a short, pleasant stroll.
• Time your activities: most places feel quietest midweek and mid-afternoon. Markets and lights? Arrive a bit early, find a bench, people-watch, and let the crowd come to you.
• Think add-ons, not marathons: a one-hour tram ride, a 90-minute harbor cruise, a short guided walk on a paved trail. Small joys stack up.
• Pack layers, not luggage: a light puffer, a soft scarf, slip-on shoes. Deserts swing cool at night; coastal towns, too. You’ll be ready for both.
• Check seasonal notes if the destination is tropical or desert. For example, Atlantic hurricane season ends November 30 (NOAA); desert nights can feel brisk even after warm afternoons.

Accessibility details worth bookmarking

• Airport screening help: TSA Cares (call 855-787-2227). They can coordinate support, answer medical device questions, and smooth the process.
• Know your rights: DOT Disability Bill of Rights outlines assistance you’re entitled to at airports and on flights.
• Accessible trails, real examples: Scottsdale’s preserve lists exact distances and surfaces on barrier-free paths (trail specs). That’s the kind of detail to look for anywhere you go.

One last nudge (because you deserve this)

You know what? The late-year calendar can get crowded with errands and obligations, but there’s real power in penciling your name first. Whether it’s strolling St. Augustine under millions of tiny lights, listening for whales in Hawaiʻi, or sipping a warm drink at a European market, a November–January trip can be refreshing without being exhausting. It’s not about doing everything. It’s about savoring something—thoroughly.