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North Carolina

North Carolina offers a diverse mix of scenic landscapes, historic cities, and outdoor adventure, making it an exciting destination for all kinds of travellers. From the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains in the west, perfect for hiking and scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, to the sun-drenched Outer Banks, where wild horses roam and lighthouses stand tall, the state is brimming with natural beauty. In between, cities like Charlotte and Raleigh buzz with cultural attractions, craft breweries, and a deep-rooted history. With South Carolina just next door, it’s easy to extend your trip to explore even more of the Southeast’s charm, from mountain adventures to coastal escapes.

Where to Book

What you’ll love most about North Carolina

  • Drive the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway, where winding mountain roads reveal sweeping vistas, vibrant fall foliage, and endless hiking trails
  • Explore the historic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, America’s largest home, with its grand mansion, lush gardens, and award-winning winery
  • Relax on the Outer Banks, where wild horses roam sandy shores, historic lighthouses stand tall, and pristine beaches stretch for miles
  • Discover Charlotte’s dynamic energy, from NASCAR thrills at the Hall of Fame to trendy neighbourhoods packed with craft breweries and cultural hotspots
  • Hike through the Great Smoky Mountains, where misty peaks, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife create a nature lover’s paradise
  • Experience Durham and Raleigh’s booming food scene, where Southern flavours meet modern innovation in lively restaurants, farmers’ markets, and barbecue joints

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Charlotte’s weather patterns

  • Big Pinnacle, Pilot Mountain, North Carolina

  • Wild horses in Rachel Carson Reserve on Carrot Island - Visit NC/C2 Photography

  • Bracken Mountain Bakery and Rocky's Grill and Soda Shop, Downtown Brevard - Visit NC/C2 Photography

  • Flowers atop Hawksbill Mountain, Linville Gorge, North Carolina

  • Bodie Island Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina

  • Raleigh North Carolina USA State Capitol Building

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 11℃
  • 13℃
  • 18℃
  • 23℃
  • 27℃
  • 30℃
  • 32℃
  • 31℃
  • 28℃
  • 23℃
  • 17℃
  • 13℃
  • 8
  • 7
  • 8
  • 6
  • 7
  • 7
  • 7
  • 7
  • 5
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

Winter in North Carolina varies by region. The Blue Ridge Mountains often see snow, making it a great time for skiing at Beech Mountain or Sugar Mountain. Meanwhile, coastal areas like Wilmington and the Outer Banks remain milder but quieter, offering peaceful beach walks.

February

The ski season continues in the west, while the North Carolina Oyster Festival in Southport celebrates the best of the state’s seafood. Valentine’s getaways to Asheville’s boutique inns or Charlotte’s upscale restaurants make for a romantic retreat.

March

Signs of spring appear, especially in Raleigh and Durham, where cherry blossoms and azaleas start blooming. College basketball fever takes over as March Madness sees the Duke, UNC, and NC State teams in the spotlight.

April

Spring is in full bloom, with Biltmore Estate’s gardens in Asheville bursting with colour. The Outer Banks see mild temperatures, making it a great time for exploring lighthouses and wild horse tours before the summer crowds arrive.

May

Warmer weather brings the start of beach season, with highs reaching 27°C in coastal areas like Wrightsville Beach and Emerald Isle. The North Carolina Wine Festival in the Yadkin Valley highlights the state’s emerging wine scene.

June

Summer heat settles in, with Charlotte, Raleigh, and Wilmington seeing highs of around 30°C. The Blue Ridge Parkway is ideal for scenic drives, with mountain laurel and rhododendrons in bloom.

July

Peak summer means long days at the Outer Banks, Topsail Island, and Bald Head Island, with ocean waters at their warmest. The Festival for the Eno in Durham celebrates North Carolina’s arts and music scene.

August

Hot and humid conditions continue, particularly in the Piedmont region. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a cooler retreat, while the beaches remain a top choice for summer holidays.

September

Fall begins creeping into the mountains, with early foliage changes along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Coastal areas remain warm, making it an excellent time for a quieter beach trip before the crowds return for the North Carolina Seafood Festival in Morehead City.

October

One of the most beautiful months in North Carolina, with peak fall foliage in the Appalachian Mountains. Asheville’s Oktoberfest and Boone’s Woolly Worm Festival capture the spirit of the season.

November

Cooler weather arrives, with highs around 17°C in the Piedmont region. Thanksgiving in North Carolina often features barbecue feasts alongside traditional holiday dishes, and the North Carolina Pecan Harvest Festival takes place in Whiteville.

December

Holiday lights sparkle across the state, with McAdenville - "Christmas Town USA" drawing visitors. In Asheville, the Biltmore Estate’s Christmas decorations create a magical winter experience, while mountain towns see their first snowfall of the season.

Our Ratings

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  • Not Recommended

Where to book


American Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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Purely America is an award winning tailor-made tour operator specialising in Holidays to North America. Let their experienced team tailor-make your dream holiday. For 20 years they have only created North America itineraries, so they know it inside out.

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Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

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