As summer’s warmth gently fades, in the fall, Portugal transforms itself into vibrant colours and serene landscapes. Autumn in Portugal typically starts around the 22nd or 23rd of September, aligning with the autumnal equinox, and lasts until around the 21st or 22nd of December. This 2024 season, the Autumn will start on the 22nd of September, an occasion when the country’s natural beauty shines, offering visitors a unique experience that is both tranquil and refreshing from the heatwave that mostly covers the country during Summertime.
Whether you are exploring the bustling cities of Lisbon and Porto or the pristine beaches of the Algarve, autumn is the perfect season to discover all that Portugal has to offer.
Understanding the Solstices & Equinoxes in Portugal
In Portugal, like the rest of the Northern Hemisphere, the autumnal equinox marks the beginning of fall, occurring around September 22nd or 23rd each year. This is one of two days during the year when day and night are almost equal in length. The equinox signals a transition from the long, sunny days of summer to shorter, cooler days, creating a perfect balance for outdoor activities and exploration in Portugal.
As autumn progresses, the days continue to shorten, leading up to the winter solstice, which occurs around December 21st or 22nd. This is the shortest day of the year, with the least amount of daylight. In Lisbon, the winter solstice is characterised by around 9 hours of daylight, compared to nearly 15 hours during the summer solstice in June. These seasonal changes provide a dynamic backdrop for experiencing the varied landscapes and cultural richness of Portugal during autumn.
Portugal in the Fall: A Time of Beauty and Adventure
What is Portugal's weather like in October? Although Autumn starts in September, the weather only starts to go mild in October. As a Mediterranean country, Portugal experiences gentle temperatures during Autumn, making October the ideal time for outdoor activities - even better than Summer, one could say.
Expect temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with plenty of sunshine and occasional rain showers. This pleasant weather allows for comfortable exploration, whether you are wandering through historic towns or hiking in the lush countryside. The Algarve Region, though, would be hotter, with temperatures still reaching 30°C (86°F), the idyllic weather for a day at the beach.
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Things to do in Portugal in September and October
Autumn in Portugal offers a wide display of outdoor activities, considering the good weather visitors and residents will encounter. In September, as the summer crowds thin, popular destinations like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve become more peaceful yet still lively.
We could highlight the visits to the vineyards in the country's most famous river, the Douro, during the grape harvest season. Visiting the picturesque Douro Valley can be a pleasant trip, either done through the river cruises from Porto to the small city called Peso da Régua, or by car, where the visitor will have the chance to pass through several grape plantations that offer guided visits. Autumn mild weather makes the visit even better, if you planned ahead to encounter one of the harvesting days - you could even be invited to help in an immersive experience, amazing, right?
In Autumn, Portugal also comes alive with several festivals and events. One of the top things to do in Portugal in November, for example, is to attend the Feira Nacional do Cavalo in Golegã, where you can witness traditional horse fairs and festivities. As the city is very close to Tomar, the famous Portuguese Templar town, a quick visit is one of the best tips we can give you.
For nature lovers, October is also the ideal time to explore national parks, where the autumn vegetation paints the landscape in stunning shades of gold, orange, and red. If so, we advise the Parque Nacional Peneda-Gerês, Portugal's only national park, located in the northwest corner of the country, near the border with Spain. Covering over 700 square kilometres, this stunning park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which range from lush, ancient forests and the Serra da Estrela Mountain filled with lakes and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can explore a network of well-marked hiking trails that lead through scenic valleys, past traditional stone villages, and medieval castles, and up to panoramic viewpoints.
So, if you are still questioning yourself if October is a good time to visit Portugal, the answer is: absolutely yes! October offers a perfect mix of pleasant weather, fewer tourists (and better prices), and vibrant cultural activities.
Must-See Places in Portugal During Autumn
Porto and the Douro Valley in Portugal's Northside
In the fall, Porto transforms into a scenic city of warm shades and charm. The autumn air and mild temperatures make it an ideal time to explore the city's historic streets, vibrant neighbourhoods, and the scenic Douro River. The famous Ribeira district also takes on a cosy ambience as the summer crowd's wane. But if staying in the city is not enough for you, remember that Autumn is the harvest season in the Douro Valley, one of the most beautiful wine regions in the world. From Porto, you can take a train, or a boat cruise to explore this region to its fullest. This unique experience will allow you to witness the vineyards turn golden colour as grapes are picked for wine production. You can participate in the harvest, enjoy wine tastings, and take in the breathtaking views of the hillsides. It is a very romantic activity, almost like a Hollywood film that comes into reality.
A Fairytale in Fall Throughout Sintra's Castles, Palaces and Forest
Sintra is a magical healing place, for its peculiar landscapes, and history. Its stunning palaces surrounded by the misty forests take on an even more enchanting atmosphere in autumn when the trees start to lose their green colour and turn into gold. The cooler weather makes it a perfect time to explore the Pena Palace, the Moorish Castle, and the lush gardens that encircle them. The town’s narrow streets and historic buildings provide a cosy backdrop for a fall getaway, a perfect place for an afternoon of good Portuguese coffee, with the best of Sintra's pastry.
Lisbon Briefs as the Summer Visitors Wane
As Portugal's GDP is 20% based on tourism, it is to be expected that during the summer period, big cities such as Lisbon get overcrowded. Yes, that is true. But it is also true to say that in September and October, when the crowd starts to fade, the city shines even more, as the weather gets milder, and the Portuguese residents take over the streets. October is when Lisbon reveals a delightful mix of vibrant colours and good weather, making it an enchanting time to visit the Portuguese capital.
As the summer heat subsides, the city’s historic neighbourhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, become more inviting for explorations. The parks and gardens, including Eduardo VII Park and the Gulbenkian Gardens, are decorated with warm autumnal hues, creating scenic settings for relaxed walks. The city's famous viewpoints, like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte and Jardim do Torel, also offer stunning vistas over the city landscape. Fall also brings a lively cultural calendar, with festivals, concerts, and food events celebrating Portuguese traditions and seasonal produce. Lisbon’s charming ambience, combined with fewer tourists and pleasant temperatures, makes autumn an ideal season to experience the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
The Algarve Tranquil Beaches and Hidden Gems
While the Algarve is known for its summer beach crowds, autumn offers a quieter and more serene experience. The weather is still warm enough for beach days, with some days even reaching 30ºC (89ºF). Explore hidden coves, hike along the cliffs, or visit charming towns like Portimão and Lagos without the hustle and bustle. Autumn, is a time to enjoy the country’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, all while avoiding the peak tourist season. Whether you are planning to explore or simply relax and take in the beauty around you, autumn is the perfect time to visit Portugal.
Is It Worth Visiting Portugal in Autumn?
Autumn in Portugal is a great time, offering an experience you'll cherish forever. From north to south, this scenic coastal country transforms with the season, making it an ideal destination for a memorable holiday and a charming place to live. You will find a laidback lifestyle, adventure, and cultural depth that makes Portugal irresistible.
Whether you’re enchanted by the historic streets of Lisbon, captivated by the cozy autumn atmosphere in Porto, or drawn to the serene beauty of the Algarve, Portugal promises an unforgettable experience filled with warmth and wonder.
If you're eager to delve deeper into what each season has to offer, Portugal Homes got you covered with our detailed guides on Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter in Portugal by selecting the season that piques your interest. Click on the corresponding square below to discover more about the best activities, weather patterns, and experiences for each season, helping you plan your perfect visit or move to Portugal.
