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Lisbon in autumn: The perfect time for a city trip!
Wondering if fall is the best time to visit Lisbon? It absolutely is. The sun still shines, hotel prices drop, and the city starts gearing up for Christmas markets.
There are also some unique activities in Lisbon in the fall. As summer fades, the parks change with the trees as they change colour, and there is plenty to do. Is it raining for a day? I’ve got you covered! Besides the museums, there is a lot to do and see in Lisbon in the fall.
After living in the city for years now, I’ve come to love this shoulder season, and I’ll show you why it might be the perfect time for your visit, too. In this guide, you’ll discover what to do, what to expect from the weather, local events, and why this might just be the best season. And I will include some fun activities for kids and nearby trips, too!
From cosy dishes to off-season festivals and scenic parks, here’s your ultimate Lisbon in autumn guide.
Why should you book a trip to Lisbon in fall?
Lisbon is a city you can visit year-round, but July and August bring heat, crowds, and the highest accommodation prices. Fall is a much better choice, with fewer tourists, lower costs, and plenty of sunny days.
The mild climate allows you to enjoy warm weather well into October, and there are also events and traditions that are unique to the fall season. Let’s start with the temperatures and what you can expect in Lisbon in autumn.
Temperatures in Lisbon in autumn
The hot summer temperatures change in September. Temperatures can still reach 30 °C (86 °F), but evenings gradually become cooler.
The average temperature in October is around 23-24 °C (74°F) during the day and 16-20 °C (60-66°F) at night. From November, it gets a bit colder, with daytime temperatures of 19-20 °C and 16 °C (60 °F) in December.
Rain becomes more common, especially in November, but that’s all part of the typical fall weather in Lisbon. Most days will be 1 mm (0.04 inches) or less at the start of fall, up to 10 mm (0.40 inches) or more later in the season.
Overall, most days will be dry with very pleasant temperatures. Especially in October, you can still enjoy the sun on the beach! So head over for a swim at Carcavelos Beach or Tamariz Beach in Estoril!
What to wear in the fall in Lisbon?
Fall in Lisbon stays mild, but the evenings can feel chilly. Layers work best. Bring a light jacket or jumper for September and October, and a warmer coat if you’re visiting closer to December.
Good walking shoes are essential. The cobbled streets get slippery when it rains. Swimwear can still come in handy for beach days or if you plan a spa or wellness visit.
If you’re travelling beyond the capital, keep in mind that northern and central Portugal are cooler, especially along the coast. The Algarve, on the other hand, stays sunnier and warmer.
Best things to do in Lisbon in autumn
The summer crowds thin out, the temperatures cool just enough to make exploring more enjoyable, and the city takes on a slower, more local rhythm. Whether you’re into cultural festivals, scenic viewpoints, or cute cafés, here’s what to do when the leaves (finally) start to turn.
Visit the parks and gardens
It’s a great idea to see some of the parks in Lisbon. Every season has its own colours, and some trees will still flower! Visit the large Parque Eduardo VII, close to Marquês de Pombal and Avenida da Liberdade. Inside, you can also explore the greenhouses of Estufa Fria.
Fall is a good time to walk along Avenida da Liberdade, where the trees change colour and the atmosphere is calmer than in summer. The avenue is also home to luxury shops, and you can stop for a glass of wine at a quiosque along the way.
The botanical gardens are amazing to see as well. You can visit the Botanical Garden of Lisbon or the Tropical Botanical Garden in Belém. Both botanical gardens have stunning tropical plants and flowers.
Another park worth exploring is Jardim da Estrela. When you take the famous Tram 28, you’ll arrive in front of Jardim da Estrela, where you can also visit the Basilica of Estrela.
Explore the beautiful neighbourhoods
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the oldest neighbourhood in Lisbon: Alfama. It’s a must-see for first-time visitors, and there is a lot to see. Explore viewpoints such as Miradouro de Santa Luzia or Miradouro das Portas do Sol.
Other highlights are São Jorge Castle, Lisbon Cathedral and the maze of tiny streets. Are you here on a Tuesday or Saturday? It’s worth taking a look at the flea market Feira da Ladra.
Baixa and Chiado are the downtown areas with plenty to see. Start at Praça do Comércio, walk through (or climb!) the iconic Rua Augusta Arch, and follow the street to the Santa Justa Elevator and Rossio Square.
Belém is another highlight, where you can find the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. Along the way, you can stop at LX Factory for its vibrant street art and some of the best shops in town. There are also plenty of cafes and eateries to enjoy a meal.
Book a photography session with me!
One of the best souvenirs of your vacation is created in front of the camera. I offer private photo sessions in Lisbon! So why not book a time with me so I can capture you in the stunning city?
There are also special dates in December when the Christmas lights are on. These slots fill up quickly, so be sure to check the availability. Check out the available Christmas options below or discover the other packages.
Visit the many markets
When you travel, it’s always fun to explore some of the many markets. Time Out Market is by far the most famous and most popular. It’s a great spot to enjoy fish dishes, such as fried cuttlefish and bacalhau, as well as pizza, meat dishes, and other specialities.
A more local market is the one at Campo de Ourique. Similar concept, fewer people. Would you like to do some vintage shopping too? Anjos 70 has some of the best vintage clothes in town! It’s often held at 8 Marvila. It’s similar to the LX Factory, but still a hidden gem!
Take a scenic route
One of the most famous attractions is Tram 28. In summer, it can get so busy that you end up waiting hours to enter. With fewer tourists in September/October, you can enjoy the ride without the lines. Please be mindful that Tram 28 is part of the public transportation system, not a tourist attraction, and locals rely on it.
If you prefer, you can enjoy a ride with the Red Hills Tram Tour. This is a dedicated tram that follows the same route. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours, so if you plan to embark multiple times, it will be worth your time and money. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, it’s a great experience for exploring the city and its seven hills.
What to do on a cold and rainy autumn day?
Unfortunately, there might be some rain as well in the fall in Lisbon. Usually, it only rains part of the day, but it’s good to have a Plan B in place in case it rains. There is plenty to do in the city on a wet day, and there are many indoor activities that will keep you warm!
See the colourful fish at the Oceanarium
Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the most visited places in the city! And with a main tank holding 5 million litres of water, that is no surprise! You’ll discover many unique species at the aquarium, including sharks, moonfish, manta rays, and turtles.
🐠 Skip the line for the Oceanarium and book online
The basins surrounding the main tank are home to even more fish, penguins, and otters. It’s not just great for kids but for adults alike! Bonus: it’s always lovely and warm inside. So, it’s the perfect spot to stay warm on cooler days!
Tip: The Oceanarium is close to Parque das Nações, and next to the science museum Pavilhão do Conhecimento. Both places are great for children, especially on a wet day.
At Parque das Nações, you can also visit the shopping mall Centro Vasco da Gama shops, which are only a short walk from the aquarium. Or take the Telecabine cable car and enjoy a ride along the river. The view over the Vasco da Gama Bridge is fantastic!
Mosteiro dos Jerónimos
With the summer visitors gone, the queue to get into the Jerónimos Monastery will also shrink substantially. It’s the perfect time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site in the city, and even when it rains, you’ll be dry inside.
Please bring an umbrella if you have to stand in line for tickets, as there is no shelter. Or buy your tickets online and avoid at least one queue! Mosteiro dos Jerónimos is an excellent example of the Portuguese Manueline style, and besides the monument, you can visit the beautiful church.
Explore Lisbon’s prestigious museums
Let’s take a look at the city’s fabulous museums! MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology has amazing temporary exhibitions! And you can visit the former power plant, which is such a unique building!
Or discover the latest art collection at the Centro de Arte Moderna Gulbenkian (CAM), located nearby in the Garden of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. Inside the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, you’ll find an incredible array of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, and European art. The Gulbenkian Museum is currently closed for renovations, but the CAM is open and has incredible art exhibitions on display!
Another art museum worth visiting is the Museum of Contemporary Art – MAC/CCB in Belém. Or check out some of these museums:
- The Fado Museum in Alfama
- The National Tile Museum
- Quake Museum
- Popular Art Museum
- National Coach Museum
- Bordalo Pinheiro Museum
Go shopping
Rainy days are perfect for shopping, and there are many shopping areas. You can find some stores in the parallel streets around Rua Augusta in the downtown area, and more around Armazéns do Chiado and Rua Garrett. Just by walking around this area, you’ll discover some unique boutiques and even historical shops with stunning facades.
There are also many shopping malls. Colombo is one of the easiest to reach, and they have all the high-street shops and more. You’ll find exclusive stores in Tivoli Forum and Avenida da Liberdade, and Amoreiras Shopping Centre is also great for unique buys. Or take a Shuttle to Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet and enjoy discounts at more than 140 stores!
Rain Tip!
Need more inspiration? Here are 20 fun things to do when it rains.
Seasonal festivals and events
Moda Lisboa
Moda Lisboa, or Lisbon Fashion Week, is held from October 1st to the 5th, 2025. This edition is returning to the heart of the city with events at Pátio da Galé and the Gomes Freire Palace. This edition features not only fashion shows but also public-friendly exhibitions, workshops, and conversations, making it more accessible than ever to visitors and locals alike.
The French Film Festival
This one is for cinema lovers! From October 2nd until the 12th, you can enjoy the French Film Festival in Lisbon and Porto. The French Embassy and the Portuguese Cinematheque organise this annual festival. The events take place at Cinema São Jorge and Cinemateca Portuguesa on Avenida da Liberdade and Cinema NOS Amoreiras.
Run the marathon
The EDP Lisbon Marathon takes place on October 25, 2025. Thanks to the scenery, it has become known as one of the most beautiful races in the world. The marathon starts at the seaside in Carcavelos and ends at Praça do Comércio.
The route follows the Tagus River, and along the way, you enjoy panoramic views over the city. Are you not running yourself? It’s great to watch and cheer for all participants!
Halloween
Please note that there may be some Halloween-related activities, but this is not typically celebrated. The most popular activity is a pub crawl with a Halloween theme.
The Lisbon Christmas Markets
The first Christmas markets will appear at the end of November. The streetlights are turned on, the Christmas trees are decorated, and the markets are in full swing!
December is a great month to be in Lisbon, and you can visit other Christmas markets in Cascais and Vila Natal in Óbidos. There will be plenty of attractions for kids and Glühwein for adults.
Day trip ideas from Lisbon during the fall
If you’re spending three or more days in Lisbon, it’s worth setting aside time for one or two excursions to nearby places. It is a great season for it! The temperature is mild, lines at the famous sights are smaller, and the surrounding areas have plenty to offer. Here are some of the best options just outside the city.
Taste the wines in Setúbal and witness the harvest
There are some great day trips to explore when visiting Lisbon in the fall. The first one will take you towards Setúbal, just an hour south of the capital. There are several extraordinary things to see and do this season.
First, the grapes are ready for harvesting and will soon turn into delicious Portuguese wine! The grape harvest typically occurs in September and October, and you can visit some wineries in Setúbal during this time. You will learn more about the whole process of how wine is made! Examples are Bacalhoa Vinhos de Portugal and Adega De Palmela.
Tip: book your visit to the winery ahead of time to avoid disappointment, or book an organised tour to ensure your spot! The nearest vineyard is only 20 minutes from Lisbon, in Carcavelos!
More experiences for wine lovers
The Alentejo region is a bit further to travel to, but you can reach the Alentejo wineries within one to two hours. You can enjoy a trip to Évora and combine it with a wine-tasting tour or venture out yourself.
Head over to Herdade das Servas, for example. This vineyard in Portugal is stunning, and the wines are fantastic! Alentejo is also known for its cork trees and olive groves, and the region’s landscape is truly beautiful. Will you visit Porto also during your Portugal trip? Check out the Douro Valley and enjoy the Douro wines as well!
Hiking and bird watching around the Sado Estuary
You can extend your Setúbal trip with a visit to Parque Natural da Arrábida, a nature park with a beautiful coastline and paradise beaches. The trails are ideal for hiking, and you’ll often find the perfect weather to enjoy the views without the summer heat. On warmer days, you can even take a dip in the ocean.
🥾 Enjoy a hiking tour from Lisbon!
The nearby Sado Estuary is a paradise for bird lovers. In the fall and winter, bird migration begins, and you can see many unique species. If you want to see flamingos, this is the spot! And there is even a unique species of dolphins in the estuary. You can book a boat tour in Setúbal to see them!
You can also see flamingos in the Tejo Estuary, and there are boat trips from Lisbon to see the birds.
See the surfers in Nazaré
October marks the start of Portugal’s big wave season. Nazaré was once a small fishing village, but it’s now world-famous for giant waves that can reach over 26 metres (85 feet). Only professional surfers can attempt to surf them, but watching from the cliffs is an unforgettable experience.
The season runs from October to March, making Nazaré a must-see if you’re in Portugal during the fall or winter.
Visit Sintra for a day (or two!)
Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira are the most-visited places in Sintra. During the summer months, the lines are long, tickets sell out, and it is packed inside. In summer, the chance of forest fires can also be significant, and on some days, all sights will close as a precaution.
Please note, Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira work with time slots. You will still need to book online in advance.
In the fall, the picturesque town of Sintra is quieter and the queues are much shorter. Visiting with a local guide is a great way to learn more about the monuments and gardens. It’s usually a bit colder in the mountains, so bring a jumper or jacket.
Besides Palácio Nacional da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira, make sure to visit places like Biester Palace, Sintra National Palace and Parque e Palácio de Monserrate. Each sight is perfect for learning more about Portuguese culture and some of the mysteries of these places. Enjoy a pleasant walk in the gardens, see the beautiful rooms and discover the amazing views.
If you enjoy outdoor activities, Sintra is great for hiking. The trails take you along the Atlantic coast with beach views and through forests in the Sintra Mountains. Bring a picnic and take in the stunning views! It’s the perfect place to stay a few days if you want more time to explore.
Seasonal food and drinks
Don’t be surprised if you catch the smell of roasted chestnuts (castanhas assadas) on street corners in November. They’re sold from small carts, and holding a warm paper cone of chestnuts is a classic snack experience.
The colder temperatures are also a great time to try a Caldo Verde. This Portuguese soup translates to Green Soup, but is a traditional soup made with potatoes, chouriço sausage, and thinly sliced greens or kale. It’s the best lunch or starter to stay warm! The thick bread soup Açorda (from Alentejo) is another treat that keeps your belly happy.
Or enjoy a cataplana! This dish is filled with fish, seafood, potatoes, and veggies! The copper cooking pan is called a cataplana in Portugal, and the fish version is known as Cataplana de Marisco. It’s like a hug in a mug food version!
Bacalhau (salted cod) will taste good all year round. Cozido à Portuguesa comes with many types of meat and is loved by any carnivore. However, there are also many vegetarian and vegan options available. And the list of restaurants is growing.
TIP: Is it raining? The perfect autumn activity is cooking or baking! You can enjoy a cooking class or make a pastry from scratch! How cool is it to bake your own pastel de nata?!
Nice areas to eat include Bairro Alto, famous for its nightlife, and Principe Real, which also boasts a fair share of bars. For a night of Fado, you can find a restaurant in Alfama or Bairro Alto. Or discover the area around Largo do Intendente and Anjos for amazing cocktail bars and local restaurants.
Cosy hotels you’ll love
Many Portuguese houses don’t have heating, so you want to ensure you’ll be warm before you book your accommodation! Air conditioning is often also used for heating in Portugal. You might want to double-check if a hotel listing isn’t specific.
If there is no air conditioning, check if there are (portable) heaters in the room. Nothing is worse than being cold after a long walk in the rain! As you can see, this part of Europe still has mild temperatures in the fall, but it’s best to have warm options available.
Here are some of my favourite hotels:
📍Budget stay: The best thing about the season is that you can still sleep in style, but for less. Check the 7 Hotel, Suites, Studios & Apartments, for example. Stylish, centrally located, and you can use a kitchenette when renting a studio.
📍Mid-range hotel: Are you looking for a hotel with a spa? PortoBay Liberdade is the perfect choice! They have a swimming pool and sauna, and you can book a massage after a long day of walking. Wonderful services and a tasty breakfast are available.
📍Luxury stay: Torel Palace Lisbon is perfect for those who like luxury. You can book a room in a 19th-century mansion or a suite. The hotel has terraces, pools and gardens, and the views are incredible! You can also enjoy fine dining at the restaurant 2Monkeys by Chef Vitor Matos.
FAQ
What are the best things to do in Lisbon in autumn?
This time of the year is one of the best times to explore the city. You can wander through the parks as the leaves change colour, ride Tram 28 without the long summer queues, or dive into museums like MAAT and the Oceanarium on rainy days. October and November also bring unique events such as the EDP Marathon, Moda Lisboa, and the first Christmas markets.
Is fall a good season to visit Lisbon?
Yes, fall is one of the best seasons. The weather stays mild, hotels are more affordable than in summer, and there are fewer crowds. Spring is also an option. Many people prefer May, June, September and October.
What can I expect in the fall in Portugal?
You can expect warm days in September and October, with average highs around 20–24 °C, and cooler evenings as winter approaches. Rain becomes more likely from November, but there are still plenty of sunny days. You can also enjoy chestnut stalls on the streets, local festivals, and even beach days if you’re lucky with the weather.
Is Lisbon cheaper in autumn?
Yes, it is usually cheaper in the fall than in the summer. Hotel prices drop after September, and you’ll often find better flight deals outside the peak holiday months. Many attractions keep the same ticket prices year-round, but with fewer visitors, you’ll save time by avoiding long queues. Eating out and using public transport cost the same in every season, but your overall trip budget will stretch further this season thanks to lower accommodation and travel costs.
Would you visit in the fall?
After a hot summer with plenty of sun, the colder temperatures are welcome for many visitors. And autumn in Lisbon makes it even more stunning. There will be some stunning foliage in the parks, the wine harvest is happening, and many birds flock to town for a break in the surrounding estuaries before flying from Europe to Africa.
October still has some warmer days, but temperatures start to drop a bit in November. In the fall, the frequency of rain increases, but there are still many fun things to do even on a wet day. And if you plan on staying in December, you can enjoy the fabulous Christmas markets!
Check out the other months and seasons in Lisbon Portugal
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