October heralds the transition from late summer to autumn, but it can be a fantastic month to visit Portugal.

This gradual progression to cooler weather sees an increase in rain; however, this is limited to the north of the country. A holiday to Lisbon will be mostly free of poor weather, while in the Algarve it may still be warm enough to spend time on the beaches.

A holiday in October has many advantages; the peak season crowds have vanished, and there will be deals for accommodation and flights. The milder weather also makes it the ideal month for activities, be that a round of golf in Vilamoura, a cycling holiday along the deserted roads of the Alentejo, or improving your surfing skills at Ericeira.

The weather makes October a wonderful month for a touring or sightseeing holiday. You could take day trips from Lisbon to Sintra, Óbidos, and Setúbal, or spend a few days exploring the Alentejo region, including Évora, Elvas, and Vila Nova de Milfontes.

 

 

It is possible to have good weather in the north of Portugal, and the region will be almost free of tourists. The only key consideration is to have flexible plans, so that if there is a block of poor weather, you could switch your itinerary.

This article will provide a guide to October in Portugal and help you get the most from your holiday.

October is ideal for discovering the Alentejo region

October is an ideal time to explore central and southern Portugal. Here are some of our recommended tour routes and holiday suggestions for your October trip:
1) A tour of the Algarve, visiting Tavira, Faro, Lagos, and Silves
2) A beach holiday to the Algarve, based in Lagos, Albufeira, or Vilamoura
3) A 3 to 7 day city break to Lisbon with day trips to Sintra, Cascais, Setúbal, and Óbidos
4) A tour of the Alentejo and central Portugal region, visiting Evora, Elvas, Marvão Castelo Branco and Tomar
5) A split holiday between Lisbon and the Algarve (based in Lagos, Tavira, or Albufeira)

The interactive map below shows these suggested itineraries. (Note: Zoom in or out to see all of the points)

Legend: 1) Tavira 2) Faro 3) Lagos 4) Sagres 5) Albufeira 6) Vilamoura 7) Lisbon 8) Sintra 9) Cascais 10) Setúbal 11) Óbidos 12) Evora 13) Elvas 14) Marvão 15) Castelo Branco 16) Tomar

A suggested route for touring the Algarve would include Faro, Tavira, and Lagos. Begin with a day exploring the historic city of Faro, then spend two days in charming Tavira. For the second part of the trip, base yourself in Lagos, taking day trips to Silves and Sagres. If you have more time, consider adding a few beach days in Albufeira, Alvor, or Vilamoura.

For a holiday in Lisbon, you could spend three days exploring the city, visiting the Alfama, Baixa, and Belém districts. A full guide to three days in Lisbon be read here. The trip can be extended with day trips to Sintra, Cascais, Setúbal, Évora, and Óbidos, all of which are easily accessible by public transport.

A holiday to the Alentejo region takes you off the beaten path, and you'll encounter few other tourists during your trip. This route is ideal for intrepid visitors, but it will require a car due to limited public transport options.

October in Portugal brings milder autumn conditions, with temperatures cooling slightly compared to September. In Lisbon, daytime highs average 23°C (73°F), dropping to around 15°C (59°F) at night. The capital sees moderate rainfall, averaging 101mm over 9 rainy days, but still enjoys about 7 hours of daily sunshine.

The Algarve remains pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18-23°C (64-73°F) during the day and 13-17°C (55-63°F) at night. Rainfall increases to 66-80mm, signalling the start of the wetter season. Sea temperatures cool to 19-21°C (66-70°F), still suitable for swimming but noticeably cooler than summer.

Northern regions like Porto experience more pronounced cooling. Daytime highs reach around 21°C (70°F), with nighttime lows of 12°C (54°F). October is one of Porto's wetter months, averaging 160mm of rain over 13 days. The north sees less sunshine, averaging 5.5 hours daily.

Porto and Lisbon are both fantastic tourist destinations, each boasting its own distinct character and charms. Lisbon is the larger and more cosmopolitan city, which pulses with vibrant energy, while Porto exudes a more traditional charm and relaxed ambiance. While both cities delight visitors year-round, Lisbon tends to be the better choice in October. The capital is typically warmer and drier, with average temperatures around 21°C compared to Porto's 19°C. You're also less likely to encounter rain in Lisbon.

Lisbon edges ahead for autumn travel with its broader range of indoor attractions. The capital's numerous palaces, museums, and cultural centres provide ample shelter from occasional showers, ensuring your itinerary remains engaging regardless of weather. October presents an ideal time to explore both cities without the peak season crowds. Lisbon, which can struggle with overtourism in summer, offers a more relaxed atmosphere during this month. Although Porto generally has a calmer ambiance, this distinction becomes less pronounced in October.

Beach visits in October are certainly possible in Portugal, though experiences vary by region. The Algarve offers the best conditions, with approximately 20 days suitable for beach activities and temperatures often exceeding 22°C and with full sun - comfortable for sunbathing. The Lisbon area typically sees about 11 beach-worthy days, while the Porto region has fewer, with only around 5 suitable days.

The western coastlines will feel cooler due to strong breezes blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. Weather conditions are generally better at the start of the month compared to the end. If you're planning a beach holiday in October, the Algarve is your best bet for a more reliable experience.

There will be warm enough days for spending time on the beach in October

The Algarve is a diverse region with over 25 coastal towns and villages, each catering to different types of tourists. In October, as smaller towns wind down for the season, we recommend basing yourself in one of three locations:

Lagos: A picturesque town offering a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery. Its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and stunning coastal scenery make it an ideal choice for most visitors in October. While much quieter than in summer, Lagos maintains its charm and provides enough amenities and attractions to keep you engaged throughout your trip. Our guide to Lagos.

Tavira: A charming and authentic Portuguese town in the quieter eastern Algarve. Ideal for travellers seeking a more relaxed, less touristy experience, Tavira offers a glimpse into traditional Algarve life. Its historic center, picturesque riverfront, and nearby island beaches provide a perfect blend of culture and natural beauty. Our guide to Tavira.

Albufeira: Ideal for beach lovers and those seeking a wide range of tourist amenities. While calmer than in peak season, it remains the Algarve's liveliest resort town, offering numerous bars and restaurants. Its family-friendly atmosphere, coupled with extensive facilities, makes Albufeira particularly well-suited for those traveling with children. Our guide to Albufeira.

These are the largest towns of the Algarve, but other great smaller towns include Alvor, Carvoeiro, and Olhos de Água. If you want a golfing holiday, head to Vilamoura.

The historic quarter of Tavira

October offers excellent opportunities for hotel bargains as prices drop to attract visitors during the low season. To secure the best deals, use hotel comparison websites and book rooms with free cancellation. This strategy allows flexibility to change plans or continue searching for better offers.

Coastal towns tend to have more significant discounts compared to Lisbon or Porto. For the best value and to support the local economy, consider staying in locally-owned hotels rather than rental apartments. This choice helps keep tourist money within Portugal and avoids contributing to housing issues faced by residents in popular areas like Lisbon, Porto, and parts of the Algarve.

October is an ideal time to explore Lisbon, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. Start your first day in the historic Alfama district, where you can wander narrow cobblestone streets and visit São Jorge Castle for panoramic city views. In the afternoon, head to the Baixa area to admire the grand Praça do Comércio and ride the Santa Justa Lift for a unique perspective of the city.

On day two, take tram 15E to Belém, home to iconic monuments like the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Don't miss trying the famous pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém. Later, explore the trendy LX Factory for its shops, cafes, and street art.

Spend your third day discovering the charming Príncipe Real neighbourhood, known for its antique shops and leafy garden. Visit the nearby Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for stunning views. For the afternoon experience modern Lisbon, head to Parque das Nações, where you can stroll along the riverfront, visit the impressive Oceanário (one of Europe's largest aquariums), or take a cable car ride for sweeping views of the Tagus River and the Vasco da Gama Bridge.
Related articles: Lisbon guide

October's mild weather makes it an excellent time for day trips from Lisbon. Sintra, with its fairy-tale palaces and lush forests, is a must-visit. The cooler temperatures are perfect for exploring the town's hills and gardens. Cascais, a charming coastal town, offers a more relaxed pace with its beaches and historic center. The medieval walled town of Obidos is particularly atmospheric in autumn, with fewer tourists and a peaceful ambiance.

For a dose of history and culture, consider a day trip to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Roman temple, medieval walls, and the eerie Chapel of Bones.

Sintra will be almost free of tourists in October

October in the Algarve offers a different experience from the bustling summer months, with quieter resort towns and milder weather. While it may not be ideal for sunbathing, the region still has much to offer visitors.

For a lively atmosphere, consider basing yourself in larger towns like Albufeira, Lagos, or Vilamoura. These areas maintain a decent selection of open restaurants and bars due to their substantial permanent populations. If you're seeking a taste of authentic Portuguese culture, the charming town of Tavira makes an excellent base or day trip destination, as do the cities of Faro and Silves.

September is a great time to discover the Moorish history of Silves

October is prime time for bargain hunters, with many hotels offering significant discounts. Use hotel comparison websites to find last-minute deals on luxury accommodations at surprisingly affordable rates. Renting a car is highly recommended, allowing you to explore the region freely and avoid being confined to quieter areas.

The western Algarve comes alive with surfing enthusiasts in October, particularly in Sagres, which boasts excellent beaches and a vibrant surfing scene. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is an ideal time to hike the Praia do Vale de Centeanes trail or cycle the peaceful roads around Burgau or Tavira. On calm sea days, boat tours from Albufeira or Vilamoura offer a unique perspective of the coastline.

Golf enthusiasts will find October particularly appealing, with pleasant weather conditions and reduced green fees compared to the peak months. Vilamoura, with its world-class courses, serves as an excellent base for a golfing holiday.

While the Algarve in October may be quieter, it offers a more relaxed and authentic experience, perfect for those looking to explore beyond the beaches and enjoy the region's diverse attractions without the summer crowds.

Porto is difficult to predict, the weather could be good, or it can be very wet.

If it is wet, the city has significantly fewer indoor activities and sights than Lisbon. The main unique in-door experience is Port wine tasting in the many cellars that line the banks of Douro River, and with over 14 different Port cellars, there's a lot of Port tasting!

On dry days, consider day trips to the picturesque city of Guimarães or the religious center of Braga. If you're blessed with sunshine, renting a car to explore the stunning Douro Valley is highly recommended. The autumn colours in the valley's vineyards are particularly beautiful in October.

Given the weather variability, it's advisable to plan your Porto visit last-minute, basing your decision on long-term forecasts. This approach allows you to take advantage of potential bargains while ensuring a more enjoyable trip. If the forecast looks rainy, you might consider opting for Lisbon or the Algarve instead.
Related articles: Porto guide

Porto sits on the banks of the Douro River