Autumn is, undoubtedly, one of the best times of the year to visit beautiful Portugal. I’ve lived in Lisbon since 2018, and while summer offers an abundance of fun in the sun, the heat and crowds can be a lot. That’s why autumn – from September to the end of November – is my favourite season to recommend in Portugal. Of course, there’s a chance of rain dampening the fun a little, but you won’t get those nasty European summer heat waves – and I find the evenings are often warmer than during summer, thanks to some humidity.
Fall in Portugal offers that sweet spot of late-summer sun and shoulder-season calm. You can still enjoy days at the beach (sans the crowds), and the city streets are calmer as castanha (chestnut) vendors pop up on corners. Better yet, with harvest time happening across the country, you can admire fall foliage in the Douro Valley and join a vindima experience (grape harvest) early in the season, or in November, taste the young wines with chestnuts at São Martinho celebrations.
If you plan to visit Portugal – Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve – in autumn, this comprehensive guide dives into a handful of reasons why autumn here is great – including a breakdown on what the weather is like, what to wear in Portugal in autumn, plus the best things to do each month.
Note! The photos featured in this article were all taken in September, October or November by me.
Why visit Portugal in autumn? Best reasons to visit in the fall
If you travel in September, October or November, you’ll hit the shoulder season, which is often the sweet spot between high summer prices and low-season rain.
Read next… best places to visit in autumn, or my guide to winter in Portugal
Extend the European summer
Forget the scorching 40°C (104°F) days of July and August – they’re rare, but they do happen! In autumn, temperatures drop to a comfortable range of around 20-28°C (or 68-82°F). That’s still gorgeously warm enough to work up a sweat while enjoying a trek across Lisbon’s seven hills or hitting the hiking trails of the Serra da Arrábida.
Harvest season is ON
Autumn is synonymous with harvest, or vindima, in Portugal. If you’re a food and wine lover, this is the time to visit wine regions like the Douro Valley or the Alentejo. I recommend joining a tour where you actually participate in the grape picking and stomping (usually with a break in the middle for a long lunch). Later in the season, you’ll see chestnuts being roasted on street corners – a sign that São Martinho’s day (November 11) is approaching.
Lower prices & smaller crowds
I’ll admit – the peak season in Portugal is extending. But while September still commands higher prices, October and November will definitely offer better value for accommodation and rental cars.
Olá to fall foliage
While Portugal isn’t famous for its crazy autumnal colours like parts of North America, there is plenty of foliage that puts on a show. I think the Douro Valley is beautiful any time of year, but it’s particularly stunning in October or November when the terraced landscape turns to vivid hues of red, gold and amber. Up on the northern border with Spain, you’ll find Peneda-Gerês National Park, where you can wander along scenic forest trails carpeted in fallen leaves, through a landscape dominated by oaks as well as pine, holly, and arbutus.
The ocean is still warm
July? The Atlantic is icy, icy cold. But thanks to the summer sun warming the ocean, sea temperatures often peak in September and stay somewhat pleasant through early October. You can still comfortably swim or surf in the Algarve or on the west coast. Just note that the Atlantic is a notoriously cold ocean to begin with, so you’ll have to keep your expectations in check.
Read next… Fall in Portugal: 8 places to visit this autumn
What’s Portugal *really* like in autumn?
The weather varies a lot from north to south (it’s a long, skinny country after all).
- September: Feels like a continuation of summer – autumn does, after all, only kick in from the autumnal equinox around September 22. Expect hot, sunny days, especially in the south – this is the time of year I take a summer vacation.
- October: This is when fall starts to creep in. Some years I’ve had hot, sunny beach days as late as October 26, others the crisp air sneaks up sooner. One thing I find is that it’s humid. The locals will dress like it’s autumn, but some fall evenings in Lisbon are warmer than in summer, so I strut about in a T-shirt, sans jacket. The north will be cooler, and you should mentally expect rain, but hope for clear skies!
- November: The transition month into winter. This is when you should definitely pack a waterproof jacket and an umbrella, especially in Lisbon and Porto. That said, the famous São Martinho’s Day (November 11) often brings a short, glorious spell of sunny weather known as Verão de São Martinho (St. Martin’s Summer).
| Region | September (Highs) | October (Highs) | November (Highs) |
| Algarve (Faro) | 26°C (79°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 19°C (66°F) |
| Lisbon | 26°C (79°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 18°C (64°F) |
| Porto | 24°C (75°F) | 20°C (68°F) | 16°C (61°F) |
Autumn weather in the Algarve
The warmest destination is the southern Algarve coast. I often travel here mid-September for balmy nights and beach days – this time of year, the ocean is at its warmest! I’ve even escaped for a long weekend down here as late as Portugal’s October 5 bank holiday, and it feels like the true end of summer. While other parts of Portugal are starting to get chilly, the Algarve is still perfect for beach days and coastal hikes. Expect mostly clear skies, with very little rain until late November.
Autumn weather in Lisbon
Lisbon is glorious in autumn – but as with any shoulder season, you roll the dice with the weather. Usually, September is gorgeous; however, this year we did have some late September rain. October is often crisp and clear, although cloudy skies and some occasional, light showers make the air humid, and evenings sometimes feel warmer than summer! Regardless, you’ll need to pack a light jacket or sweater plus an umbrella. Rain is possible in October and becomes more frequent in November. On wet days, take care with the beautiful but notoriously slippery calçada portuguesa (cobblestone sidewalks). Only bring flat shoes with gooooood grip.
This was the final week of October in Lisbon. Monday was balmy, hot T-shirt weather, while Thursday was chilly!
Autumn weather in Porto & the North
The North is where you’ll find the most dramatic change and the most intense autumn colours. Porto is a wetter, cooler city than Lisbon – but the moody vibe is part of the charm. Expect more rain from mid-October onwards. The cooler weather is perfect for touring the Port wine cellars in Gaia, enjoying a francesinha, and taking a scenic train ride through the Douro Valley to see the vineyards in their autumnal glory.
Read next… My guide to winter in Portugal
What to wear in Portugal in autumn
I notice the Portuguese often dress to the season, not the weather – but I’d say the key to packing a suitcase for fall in Portugal is layers. Plus, if you come in September, you’ll need a swimsuit and summer dresses, while November calls for a jacket and umbrella.
- Light coat or jacket: Bring at least a denim jacket or blazer. You’ll only need a warm coat in late November in the North, but a light waterproof layer will save you from the sudden autumn showers in Lisbon and Porto.
- Sweater: Sim, it’s sweater weather – particularly in the North and towards the later half of the season. You might start the day in a sweater, shed it for a t-shirt at noon, and put it back on after dark.
- Raincoat or umbrella: ideally, your light coat might be waterproof too; otherwise, pack an umbrella..
- Layers: Bring layers. That September sundress might need a jacket layer for the evening, or a sunny late October day might turn to sweater weather the next day. In general, two layers – a T-shirt and a jacket – should be sufficient.
- Trousers: For men, jeans and long trousers are standard in Europe, but if you’re visiting the Algarve in September, you’ll still be fine with shorts.
- Accessories: Never underestimate the power of a scarf – and don’t forget that umbrella.
- Boots or waterproof sneakers with grip: if you’ve seen pictures of Lisbon’s notorious yet beautiful cobblestone footpaths, you’ll understand – difficult in summer, dangerous when wet.
The best things to do in Portugal in autumn
Now for the fun part – let’s dive into all the best things you can do in Portugal in autumn, month by month, from late beach days to cosy chestnut season. Here’s why it’s one of the best times to travel to Portugal.
Portugal in September: Things to do & places to visit
September is the golden month – it has the best of summer without the peak crowds (though I’ll admit, people are cottoning onto Portugal for late-summer sunshine). The water temperature is perfect, and the cities are breathable again. I suggest:
- Head to the Algarve or the Costa Vicentina (Alentejo Coast) for sublime, late-summer beach days. European students head back to school, so the thick summer crowds are gone, but the sun is still reliable.
- Surf season kicks off – yes, the swell returns, so it’s a good time for keen surfers to visit spots like Peniche and Ericeira.
- Go for the Vindima – travel to the Douro Valley or wineries across the Alentejo to participate in the grape harvest. Many quintas (wine estates) offer unique harvest programs, including stomping the grapes.
Weather in Portugal in September (average temperatures)
Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 26°C (79°F), with minimums of 18°C (64°F).
Lisbon: Average highs of 26°C (79°F), with minimums of 17°C (63°F)
Porto: Average highs of 24°C (75°F), with minimums of 14°C (57°F)
September events in Portugal
- Chef’s On Fire, Cascais
- Alma do Vinho, Alenquer
- Festa das Vindimas, Palmela
- Feira de São Mateus, Elvas
Find more events in Portugal here.
Portugal in October: Things to do & places to visit
October is an underrated sweet spot for Portugal-in-autumn travel. The temperatures are ideal for exploration, and the crowds have genuinely thinned out.
- Explore Sintra’s misty magic – this microclimate is Lisbon’s top day trip, and the often misty weather adds drama and romance to the many palaces like Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
- Hike the Portuguese Caminho – milder temperatures make October the perfect time to walk the Camino de Santiago from Porto, passing through stunning northern landscapes. Go early in the month for better weather!
- Madeira Island is gorgeous in October – the island’s subtropical climate means temperatures stay mild year-round. Ideal for dinner outdoors and hiking!
Weather in Portugal in October (average temperatures)
Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 22°C (72°F), with minimums of 15°C (59°F).
Lisbon: Average highs of 22°C (72°F), with minimums of 14°C (57°F)
Porto: Average highs of 20°C (68°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F)
October events in Portugal
- Birdwatching & Nature Festival, Sagres
- International Puppet Festival, Porto
- Pilgrimages to Fátima
- Feira Nacional dos Frutos Secos (National Dried Fruit Fair)
- AngraJazz, Terceira Island
- Festival Nacional de Gastronomia (National Gastronomic Festival)
Find more events in Portugal here.
Portugal in November: What to do & places to visit
You’ve heard the saying about Saint Martin’s summer? Well, each November São Martinho falls on November 11 – and honestly, the weather around that date is usually brilliant with blue sky and sunshine. Towards the end of the month, Christmas lights start going up, and the cities are buzzing with festive cheer.
- Celebrate São Martinho (St. Martin’s Day) – On November 11, Portugal celebrates Magusto. The tradition involves tasting the new year’s wine (água-pé) and eating roasted chestnuts (castanhas). Locally, you’ll find little festas in town squares or at restaurants. Or head to a wine-making area, like the small Alentejo village of Vila Alva, when the locals crack open the talhas (terracotta vessels) to taste the season’s wines.
- Chase the monster waves at Nazaré – winter swell starts to arrive on the west coast. Check the surf reports for Nazaré to see if there are any early-season giants on the forecast. Waves can reach record-breaking heights!
Weather in Portugal in November (average temperatures)
Faro, Algarve: Average highs of 19°C (66°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F). But it does reach up to 25°C (77°F) during the day with around 9 hours of daylight.
Lisbon: Average highs of 19°C (66°F), with minimums of 12°C (54°F)
Porto: Average highs of 17°C (63°F), with minimums of 7.3°C (45°F)
This is the weather in Lisbon during the final week of November. Not bad, hey?
November events in Portugal
- São Martinho or Magusto
- Monchique Walking Festival, Algarve
- Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã (National Horse Fair), Ribatejo
- Festival da Batata-Doce (Sweet Potato Festival)
- Marvão Feira da Castanha (Chestnut Fair)
Find more events in Portugal here.
FAQs about autumn in Portugal
Is Portugal worth visiting in October?
Absolutely, yes. If you have flexibility, this is one of the best times of year to visit. You get the benefits of (usually) beautiful weather without the peak summer prices, crowds or extreme heat. The combination of wine harvest activities, comfortable city exploring and late-season beach days is unbeatable.
Do I need to book accommodation far in advance for the autumn?
For September, yes, especially in popular spots like the Algarve, Lisbon and the Douro Valley. For October and November, you can be more flexible, but book any special quintas or resorts in advance.
What to wear in Lisbon in October?
When in doubt, wear jeans and a T-shirt with sneakers or ankle boots to fit in with the locals. In October, add a light jacket like a trench coat or denim layer for cooler days. Sunny October days are super warm, while cloudy ones are humid and mild.
Where is the best place in Portugal to see fall foliage?
I think the Douro Valley is the best location. It’s just such a unique landscape to start with, then when the vines turn deep red and gold, it becomes something else entirely. You can easily jump on the train or (if you’re short on time) join a Douro Valley guided day trip from Porto. For deep forest colours, head north to Peneda-Gerês National Park.
Any questions about what autumn in Portugal is like? Drop me a comment below… or I can help plan your trip with a private call.
Read next…
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