Traveling to Europe with kids around the holidays often brings to mind December crowds, freezing weather, and high hotel prices. But take it from me, an expat mom of a toddler with an insatiable travel bug: families who visit in November experience a very different version of the season. November offers early Christmas markets, gentler temperatures, more availability at hotels, and fewer crowds in central squares. Parents can take their time in city centers, move through markets without squeezing through large groups, and enjoy festive streets that still feel local.
For families looking at Europe for the holidays, November is the practical sweet spot. Cities are already decorated, seasonal food stalls are beginning to open, and daytime temperatures are high enough for children to stay outside longer. Flights and hotels are also more affordable than in December. These four cities offer the best combination of early holiday atmosphere, child-friendly activities, and comfortable November weather.
A woman in a Santa hat forms a heart with candy canes while visiting a European Christmas market.
(OKrasyuk via Getty Images)
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen in November feels festive without the intensity of December. Lights reflect off the canals, bakeries put out warm cinnamon pastries, and the city leans into a cozy atmosphere that suits families. Crowds stay manageable throughout most of the month.
Tivoli Gardens is the primary draw in November. By mid-month, the Christmas season is underway with small rides, themed displays, a Christmas train, and warm food stalls. Visiting in November makes it easier to move around with children and enjoy the details before December becomes much busier.
A short canal tour through Nyhavn is still realistic before winter winds make it uncomfortable. Indoors, families often split their time between the National Museum and the Experimentarium. Both have exhibits explicitly designed for children, which helps pace the day if the weather turns cold. Neighborhood bakeries in Nørrebro and Christianshavn offer simple, warm breaks between outings. Many families use these as natural pauses before moving on to another activity.
Families who want a central, upscale stay often choose Hotel d’Angleterre, known for its elaborate holiday decorations and large rooms that work well for parents traveling with children. Hotel Sanders offers a quieter, boutique-style experience with fireplaces, soft lighting, and rooms that feel warm and residential. Both provide cribs and family-friendly setups.
Christmas markets: Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn typically open in early to mid-November.
Average November temperatures: High around 55°F; low around 46°F.
Average December temperatures: High around 38°F; low around 31°F.
Crowds and prices: Late November remains calm; December is significantly busier.
Nyhavn harbor in Copenhagen decorated with Christmas lights in winter, one of the city’s most popular holiday market areas.
(Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is one of Europe’s most approachable cities for families, especially in early winter. It is compact, clean, easy to navigate, and full of gentle riverfront views. In November, lights begin to appear along the Ljubljanica River, but crowds stay low.
The Old Town and its triple bridges form the center of most family itineraries. Parents can walk along the river, stop at cafés for hot chocolate, and enjoy a calm atmosphere without having to weave through large tour groups. A short funicular ride leads up to Ljubljana Castle, where families can explore the walking paths and look out at rooftops shifting into winter.
Ljubljana’s puppet theatre often has seasonal shows for younger children. Metelkova, known for its colorful street art, adds something visually different without requiring a long stop.
One of the most significant advantages of visiting Ljubljana in November is the ease of day trips. Lake Bled is especially scenic at this time of year, with quiet walking paths and soft early-winter light. Families can circle the lake, take photos of the island church, and enjoy the outdoors without deep snow or crowds.
Christmas market: Ljubljana Festive Fair runs from November 28 through early January.
Average November temperatures: Highs between 43°F and 55°F; lows between 34°F and 39°F.
Average December temperatures: Highs between 38°F and 43°F; lows between 27°F and 32°F.
Crowds and prices: November stays peaceful. December becomes busier with ski travelers.
reseren Square in Ljubljana glows with Christmas lights as visitors explore the city’s festive holiday market.
(BalkansCat via Getty Images)
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of Europe’s most photographed winter destinations, but November offers a calmer, easier version of the city. Families can enjoy the scenery without navigating December’s crowds.
The Old Town is lively but manageable in November, and families can enjoy hot chocolate or trdelník pastries at cafés with open seating. Walking across Charles Bridge at dusk is more pleasant when you are not pushed along by heavy foot traffic.
Prague’s main Christmas markets open around November 29 in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Visiting at the start of the season allows families to see the lights, tree, and stalls before the city enters peak holiday demand. Kids often enjoy the Christmas carousel in Old Town Square, which is far easier to ride when lines are still short.
The Prague Castle area stays more comfortable in November. Courtyards and walkways that become packed in December remain open enough to explore at a relaxed pace. The funicular up Petřín Hill offers simple entertainment for children and clear views over the city.
Christmas markets: Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets run from November 29 through early January.
Average November temperatures: Mid-40s°F.
Average December temperatures: Around 32°F, colder at night.
Crowds and prices: November is lively but reasonable; late December is one of the busiest times of the year.
Prague Christmas market in Old Town Square with festive lights, holiday stalls and winter crowds in the historic city center.
(blightylad-infocus via Getty Images)
Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn’s Old Town looks naturally suited to Christmas markets, with its steep cobbled streets and medieval walls. November offers the visual appeal of winter without the extreme cold or crowds that arrive later in December.
Tallinn’s Christmas Market is one of the earliest in Europe, often opening around November 21. This gives families the rare chance to explore stalls selling gingerbread, woolen crafts, and hot berry juice without being overwhelmed by crowds.
The Seaplane Harbour Museum is an excellent indoor option for families. It features full-size submarines and maritime exhibits in an ample, open space. Kadriorg Park offers wide paths for walking or running, even in cooler weather.
Christmas market: Tallinn Christmas Market typically runs from November 21 through early January.
Average November temperatures: Daytime highs in the low 40s°F.
Average December temperatures: High around 32°F, colder at night.
Crowds and prices: November stays calm and affordable. Mid-December brings more visitors from across Northern Europe.
Aerial view of Tallinn’s Old Town in winter, with snow-covered rooftops and a clear look at the historic center of Estonia’s capital.
(Roksana Bashyrova via Getty Images)
Why November works for families
For many parents, the idea of Christmas markets in Europe is appealing, but the reality of December travel can be overwhelming. Prices are higher, days are colder, and popular squares become crowded. November offers a more comfortable version of the same experience.
The lights are on, markets are open, seasonal foods are available, and cities feel festive. At the same time, hotel rates are lower, streets are easier to navigate, and children can explore without getting lost in crowds. Families can decide plans on the spot rather than structuring the day around lines or timed entries.
Copenhagen, Ljubljana, Prague, and Tallinn show how enjoyable early-season Europe can be. Each city creates a holiday atmosphere that parents and children can enjoy without stress. For many families, November becomes the month they return year after year.