November in Germany: What's On For Festivals And Culture in 2025

November in Germany is officially shoulder season. A wonderful period of time between the seasonal crush of tourists, where life moves at a slower pace. Albeit slightly more damp-ish. This page has not only where to go and what to do, but also packing and practical tips for making your autumnal holiday one to remember.

Quick Hits

• Hamburg: Visit the harbour, the Speicherstadt & the Winter Hamburger Dom (opens 7 Nov 2025). Festive lights and indoor/outdoor fun.
• Munich: A good base for city culture, early Christmas markets from late-November, and the Münchner Bücherschau (20 Nov – 7 Dec 2025). 
• Berlin: November in Berlin means fewer tourist crowds, so you can enjoy museums, memorials, and city walks in a more relaxed mode.
• Cologne: Arrive early in the month for the kickoff of the local carnival season (11 Nov 2025) and combine with the city’s Gothic cathedral and Rhine River views.
• Bavarian Countryside: If you venture outside cities, expect calm, foggy mornings and potential early snow on higher terrain. Great for peaceful hikes (just pack warm layers).

Weather During November

No matter how much you like your traveling partner, layers are going to be your best friend this time of year.

The late autumnal season brings shorter and cloudier days. And along with them, a greater likelihood of rain with the possibility of snow closer to the Alps.

Temperatures generally range between 4-10°C with the north typically milder than the south.

All of this harkens the eventual opening of Christmas markets throughout the country towards the end of the month. So while there's light at the end of the tunnel, there's still plenty to do before the lights of Christmas arrive.

Practical Tips

November sits in that odd middle ground where Germany hasn’t quite committed to winter, but autumn’s already packed up and left. It’s cooler, quieter, and often damp, which makes it perfect for slow travel.

Hotels are usually cheaper, especially in the first half of the month, before Christmas markets start drawing crowds again. By late November, prices begin to climb, so it’s worth locking in your accommodation early if you’re visiting a larger city.

Trains and buses run on their generally punctual schedules, though smaller towns and rural areas can see fewer evening connections. If you’re planning a countryside stay, double-check your return times so you don’t end up stranded at a dark bus stop with only the sound of church bells for company.

Daylight fades quickly. In northern Germany, the sun may call it quits around 4:30 PM, which means museums, cafes, and early dinners become your new best friends. In southern regions and the Alps, frost is common, and the first snow isn’t unheard of, especially at higher elevations.

It’s also the time of year when locals fully embrace indoor life. Don’t be shy about following their lead: step into a warm café, order a slice of Apfelstrudel, and let the weather do what it wants. You’ll have the museums, galleries, and cobblestone streets mostly to yourself, which is a rare treat in Germany.

Packing for November

• Warm waterproof jacket. It will rain. Most likely. Best be prepared.
• Thermal base-layer if you plan countryside or mountain visits.
• Sturdy walking shoes (at least water-resistant) since paths may be muddy or slick.
• Scarf, hat, gloves. Even heroes get cold fingers. Useful for market evenings.
• Days are shorter: pack a small flashlight/head-torch if exploring rural or forest trails.
• Plug adapter (Germany uses Type F) and a portable charger since you’ll likely use your phone for maps in cities.
• If you're visiting Christmas markets (many start in late November), consider a reusable cup or stainless mug. Some markets charge a deposit for using their mugs.

What I'd Do If I Were You

Allerheiligen & Allerseelen

All Saints' Day (Allerheiligen) on November 1 and All Souls' Day (Allerseelen) on November 2 are significant observances in Germany. Traditionally, families visit cemeteries to honor deceased loved ones, adorning graves with candles and flowers. These days offer a poignant reflection on remembrance and the passage of time, deeply rooted in German cultural and religious practices.

Leonhardifahrt Bad Tölz

Thousands of spectators pack the streets and narrow alleys of Bad Tölz in November (generally held on the 6th each year). With the clatter of hooves and the buzz of cheerful voices filling the air, it means one thing: the Leonhardifahrt Bad Tölz, one of Germany’s most stunning horse pilgrimages, is in full swing. The Bavarian pilgrimage is also included on the nationwide list of intangible cultural heritage by the German UNESCO Commission.

Filmfest Düsseldorf

Filmfest Düsseldorf is an annual celebration of cinema, showcasing a diverse selection of films from around the globe. Held November 5-7, 2025, the festival features screenings, workshops, and discussions, providing a platform for filmmakers and cinephiles to engage and explore contemporary cinematic trends.

Hamburger Dom

The Hamburger Dom is Germany's largest funfair, held thrice annually in Hamburg. The Winter Dom runs from November 7 until December 7, 2025, offering thrilling rides, games, and culinary delights. With a history dating back to the 14th century, it remains a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors.

Martinstag | St. Martin's Day

Held on November 11th, St. Martin's Day, or Martinstag, is celebrated across German-speaking Europe and has a fun, Halloween-esque vibe. It's all about the kids and nighttime festivities. School-aged children make their own lanterns and march through the night, singing traditional songs to the beat of drums.

Kölner Karneval | Cologne Carnival

Known as the "fifth season," Cologne Carnival officially kicks off on November 11 at 11:11 AM. This lively event marks the beginning of the carnival season, featuring colorful parades, music, and street festivities. While the main celebrations that most people know of take place in February, the November launch is a vibrant spectacle that sets the tone for the months ahead.

Münchner Bücherschau | Munich Book Fair

Celebrating its 67th edition in 2025, the Münchner Bücherschau is a literary haven for book enthusiasts. Running from November 20 to December 7, 2025, at Haus der Kunst, the event features over 200 publishers showcasing thousands of titles. Visitors can attend readings, discussions, and workshops, making it a must-visit for those passionate about literature.

Tollwood Winter Festival

From November 27 to December 31, 2025, the Tollwood Winter Festival on Munich's Theresienwiese offers a unique blend of cultural events, organic gastronomy, and a "Market of Ideas" featuring international crafts. Known as Munich's "alternative Christmas market," it emphasizes sustainability and multiculturalism, providing a platform for artistic expression and environmental awareness.

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