Take advantage of the late Autumn colors in November, a month offering dramatic contrasts between sky and changing foliage, fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and world-class wines and truffles. There's even a fun race featuring cycling and wine in the Istrian Peninsula. Read on to learn more.

Weather

You'll see the last of the late autumn sunshine in November. Average temperatures in the north around Zagreb will have colder temperatures (42°F/6°C), with temps dipping below freezing on occasion in the mountainous central region. The south along the Adriatic is milder, with daily temperatures of 55°F (13°C).

With nine hours of daylight, you can expect five to seven hours of sunshine, with more in the south and around the islands. November is Croatia's rainiest season, especially along the Adriatic, though a cooperative sunny day might inspire beachgoers to don their suits and lie out on the beach. So pack your bathing suit (alongside your waterproof jacket) just in case! 

Crowds & Costs

There are fewer crowds along the coast and islands as many hotels and ferries have closed down for the season, and Croatian vacationers have returned to their homes inland. Given the mild temperatures on the Adriatic coast, sightseeing historic centers like Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik can be enjoyable at this time, and bonus, hotel prices may be over fifty percent cheaper than during the busy season. 

Where to Go

This is a good month to give cities like Split the attention it deserves now that the stifling summer heat has abated and there are far fewer tourists about. Explore Split's Kaštelet, a 28-piece work of wooden sculptures by Croatian artist, Meštrović. Enjoy the brisk air as you follow the leafy boulevard to each piece, stopping to admire the seafront. Those interested in an invigorating climb can trek up to Marjan Hill's summit (about four hours). Strategic viewpoints are placed throughout the climb for plenty of rewarding views of Split and the Adriatic.  

A classic route from here is driving along the coast past Krka National Park and to Zadar before heading inland through Plitvice National Park and to Zagreb, Croatia's capital. Once in Zagreb, explore the city's neighborhoods, like the hipster Marticeva street, for your choice of trendy boutiques and shops. People watch with a hot beverage in hand from one of the many cafés in Spica—a strip of cafés in the pedestrian zone between Trg Jelacica and Flower Square in the Lower Town.

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What to Do

Get outside for some crisp, fresh air while spending some time in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula. Visit Momjan to taste the region's famous Malvasia wine, considered the best white wine in Croatia. Book a reservation at the acclaimed Kozlović winery for a tour and tasting and meet the owner/winemaker, Gianfranco Kozlović. Cyclists and wine lovers will appreciate Momjan's annual (non-competitive) Bike-Wine Marathon that begins and ends in Momjan. You can celebrate completing the 20-mile loop with a glass or two of the region's premium wine with fellow cyclists (for more on Istrian wine, see The Secrets of Croatia's Wine Country). 

Croatia's national parks are especially beautiful this time of year, and many photographers are out taking advantage of the dramatic scenery. The multi-colored trees in different stages of transformation stand out vividly against the gray November sky. National park Krka is worth a visit to take that perfect photograph. There are plenty of easy-to-navigate boardwalks throughout the park leading you to informative signposts and stunning viewpoints. Prepare to get wet as the water levels are higher than in the summer, though the sheer volume of the waterfalls' power and majesty will more than make up for it.

Events in November

Zagreb Film Festival, Zagreb. Taking place usually in October, but sometimes in November, Zagreb hosts a popular film festival, covering nine days of over 100 film screenings.

Animafest Zagreb. A festival dedicated to promoting animated works from well-known artists to up-and-comers and students. Odd-numbered years are devoted to feature films and even-numbered years to short films.

Truffle Days, Livade. This multi-day festival (September to November) takes place during the white truffle peak season annually in Livade, the center of the truffle region in Istria. Enjoy all things truffles, including a demonstration using specially-trained dogs to search them out.

Feast of St. Martin, northern Croatia. Celebrated on November 11, this once solemn event is now more of a street party revering wine. 

Traveling to Croatia in November? Check out these great itineraries

Cycle the Wine Routes of Istria - 8 Days. Istria, the largest Croatian peninsula, is truly magical. Its historic hilltop towns, vineyards, and olive groves make an ideal setting for cycling adventures. Add views of the Adriatic Sea and the seductive tastes of excellent Istrian wines, and you're all set for an active and indulgent week in this beautiful region of Croatia.

Highlights of Croatia: Zagreb to Dubrovnik - 8 Days. Cover the highlights of Croatia in this one-week itinerary. Starting in Zagreb, the capital, you'll make your way south to Dubrovnik, stopping at Plitvice National Park and the ancient port cities of Zadar and Split. Spend a few days relaxing on the beach on the island of Hvar, then end your trip in the medieval town of Dubrovnik.

More Helpful Information

Croatia in October
Croatia in December
Best Time of Year to Visit Croatia
How Many Days to Spend in Croatia