Fall in Lisbon strikes a nice balance between warm days and cooler evenings. It’s honestly one of the most comfortable times to visit. You’ll see average daytime temperatures start around 26°C (79°F) in September, then slowly dip to about 18°C (64°F) by November.
Rain starts popping up more often later in the season. Still, you’ll get plenty of sunny days, so there’s no shortage of chances to enjoy the city outdoors.
You’ll notice the vibe changing as autumn rolls on. September still feels a lot like late summer. October brings mild afternoons and some crisp nights. By November, rain shows up more, but the temperatures stay gentle compared to most of Europe.
This steady shift makes for a cozy backdrop while you wander Lisbon’s neighborhoods, head out on day trips, or catch seasonal events.
If you know what to expect, you can plan better. From packing the right clothes to scheduling your activities around the weather, understanding Lisbon’s fall climate helps you make the most of your trip.
Overview of Fall Weather in Lisbon
Lisbon cools down steadily in the fall. Rain shows up more often, and the days get shorter as the season moves along.
The season kicks off with warm, dry weather and shifts towards cooler, wetter days with less daylight.
Typical Fall Temperatures
September starts off with daytime highs around 82°F (28°C). By late November, those highs drop closer to 61°F (16°C).
Nights cool down too, going from the mid-60s°F (18°C) to about 50°F (10°C).
Early fall can still feel summery. Later on, you’ll notice the chill. Freezing weather almost never happens, so you don’t need heavy winter gear. Still, you’ll probably want a light jacket by October.
For a quick reference: September feels comfortable and warm. October is mild. November gets cooler, but it’s still moderate if you compare it to other European cities.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low |
|---|---|---|
| September | 79°F / 26°C | 65°F / 18°C |
| October | 72°F / 22°C | 57°F / 14°C |
| November | 64°F / 18°C | 52°F / 11°C |
Rainfall and Humidity Patterns
Rain really picks up as fall goes on. Early September usually gets less than 0.5 inches over 31 days, but by November, it’s closer to 3 inches.
Wet days become more common, jumping from about 5% chance in early fall to nearly 30% by late November.
Humidity changes a lot too. Early on, you might still run into muggy days. By late fall, the air dries out. The chance of muggy weather drops from about 16% in early September to almost nothing by November.
You’ll probably see 8–12 rainy days per month in fall, especially in October and November. If you’re planning to walk around, carrying an umbrella or light rain jacket just makes sense.
Daylight Hours and Sunshine Levels
Daylight fades fast in Lisbon during fall. On September 1, you get about 13 hours of daylight. By November 30, it’s down to less than 10 hours.
Sunrise creeps later, and sunsets come earlier. By late November, the sun sets around 5:15 PM. Early September sunsets are closer to 8:00 PM.
Sunshine becomes a bit of a gamble. Cloud cover rises from about 23% at the start of fall to almost 47% by late November.
You’ll still catch plenty of clear days in September. But as winter gets closer, expect more overcast skies.
Shorter days and more clouds, plus cooler temperatures, make late fall feel pretty different from early fall.
Monthly Breakdown: September, October, and November
Fall in Lisbon slowly shifts from dry summer heat to cooler, wetter days. You’ll enjoy warm afternoons in September, mild and pleasant weather in October, and cooler, rainy stretches by November.
September Weather Highlights
September hangs onto that summer feeling, but it’s more comfortable. Average highs reach 27°C (81°F) and lows hover near 18°C (64°F).
Rain is light, about 33 mm (1.3 in), so most days are sunny.
The sea temperature sits around 20°C (68°F), making it a great month for swimming. Beaches are way less crowded than in July or August, but the weather’s still perfect for getting outside.
Pack light clothes for the daytime, but toss in a light jacket for the evenings. Sun protection is still a must since UV levels stay high.
October Weather Highlights
Lisbon cools down in October. Average highs hit 23°C (73°F), and lows are near 15°C (59°F).
Rainfall climbs to about 100 mm (3.9 in), and showers pop up more often, especially later in the month.
You lose some daylight, but there are still plenty of clear days. The air feels fresher, and humidity picks up compared to summer.
Sightseeing outdoors stays comfortable, though you might want an umbrella or rain jacket handy.
October is a bit of a wild card, so pack short sleeves and some warmer layers. Evenings get cool, especially near the river or by the coast.
November Weather Highlights
November kicks off Lisbon’s wet season. Average highs drop to 18°C (64°F), and lows settle around 12°C (54°F).
Rainfall peaks at 128 mm (5 in), so this is the wettest month of fall.
You’ll see a mix of sunny breaks and rainy days. Long dry spells are rare, but heavy showers usually don’t last too long.
Bring waterproof shoes and a solid jacket, because the streets get slick during rain. Even with the wet weather, daytime temps stay mild compared to much of Europe, so city walks and indoor spots still feel inviting.
What to Pack for Fall in Lisbon
Fall in Lisbon means warm afternoons, cool evenings, and a real mix of rain and sun. You’ll want clothes you can layer and a few accessories that can handle sudden showers or strong sunshine.
Essential Clothing for Varying Conditions
Early fall days often feel like summer, but late autumn brings in cooler air. Pack lightweight shirts and long-sleeve tops so you can mix and match layers. A thin jacket or cardigan is perfect for breezy nights.
Go for long pants since Lisbon’s cobblestone streets are easier to handle in comfy clothes than shorts. If you’re here in late October or November, add a warmer jacket or light coat for the chilly nights.
Shoes really matter in Lisbon. The streets are steep and uneven, so bring comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Thin-soled sandals can be slippery on the polished stone, so it’s best to skip them.
Here’s a quick list:
- Short-sleeve shirts
- Long-sleeve shirts
- Light sweater or cardigan
- Thin jacket (warmer coat for late fall)
- Long pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-Appropriate Accessories
Lisbon averages about ten rainy days per fall month, so a compact umbrella or light rain jacket is just practical. If your hotel lends umbrellas, you can save some space in your bag.
The sun still packs a punch, especially in September, so don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen. A hat helps when you’re walking long stretches, especially along the waterfront.
Because you’re always going up and down hills, a daypack is great for stashing layers you take off as it warms up. A scarf works for extra warmth in the evening or as sun protection during the day.
Accessory cheat sheet:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Umbrella / Rain jacket | Rain protection |
| Sunglasses | Bright sun |
| Sunscreen | UV protection |
| Hat | Shade while walking |
| Scarf | Extra warmth or sun cover |
| Daypack | Carry layers and essentials |
Experiencing Lisbon’s Neighborhoods in Fall
Cooler days and fewer crowds make Lisbon’s streets, viewpoints, and parks even more enjoyable. You get to wander historic quarters, check out cultural landmarks, and relax outdoors without the summer heat.
Exploring Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto sits on one of Lisbon’s hills and is packed with narrow streets, tiled buildings, and a lively nightlife. Fall evenings are cooler, which makes hopping between bars, tiny restaurants, and music spots more comfortable.
You’ll find the area buzzing after sunset, but during the day it’s pretty laid-back. That contrast gives you two totally different experiences depending on when you go.
If you’re into local food, plenty of tascas (traditional eateries) serve up affordable meals here. Grilled sardines or petiscos with Portuguese wine? Always a good idea.
The steep streets can wear you out, so definitely wear comfortable shoes. If you want to skip the climb, take the Elevador da Bica or Glória funicular. You’ll get a great view without the sweat.
Discovering Chiado
Chiado bridges Bairro Alto with downtown Lisbon and mixes historic charm with modern shopping. Fall’s mild weather makes it perfect for long walks, and you won’t have to dodge as many crowds as in summer.
You’ll find bookshops, theaters, and cafés everywhere. Café A Brasileira is a classic spot if you want to grab a coffee and do some people-watching.
Cultural highlights include the National Museum of Contemporary Art and the Carmo Convent ruins. Both are easy to reach on foot, and the cooler air makes walking around a lot more pleasant.
The shops along Rua Garrett and nearby streets sell everything from big brands to Portuguese fashion. If you like shopping, fall sales can be a great time to pick up gifts.
Strolling Through Lisbon’s Parks
Lisbon’s public parks really show off the change in season. In fall, leaves start turning in Parque Eduardo VII and Jardim da Estrela. Both are big enough for quiet walks and have open-air cafés.
With mild daytime temps, you can sit outside comfortably. Locals love gathering in these parks for coffee, reading, or just soaking up the sun.
Some parks give you sweeping views of the city. Parque Eduardo VII, for example, looks straight out to the Tagus River, which is especially pretty on crisp fall afternoons.
If you want to dodge rain, check the forecast before heading out. On dry days, these parks are some of the best spots to enjoy Lisbon’s green spaces without leaving the city center.
Seasonal Activities and Local Events
With mild temps and smaller crowds, autumn in Lisbon is a comfortable time to explore. You can enjoy outdoor spaces, local traditions, and a lively nightlife without the summer rush.
Outdoor Activities and Sightseeing
Fall weather in Lisbon usually stays warm enough for walking tours and outdoor sights. Early in the season, you can still hang out along the Tagus River or hop on a tram through historic neighborhoods.
By late October, cooler air makes those uphill walks in Alfama and Graça a bit easier.
Parks like Eduardo VII and Monsanto Forest Park show off autumn colors—leaves turn yellow and orange, and you get peaceful strolls with city views.
If you’re into the coast, beaches near Cascais and Estoril are still nice. Swimming drops off in late fall, but the sea air and coastal walks are still worth it. Usually, a light jacket or sweater does the trick.
Cultural Festivals and Celebrations
Autumn brings classic Portuguese celebrations. In early November, locals celebrate Dia de São Martinho (St. Martin’s Day). You’ll spot roasted chestnuts, or castanhas, on street corners, often with a glass of água-pé, a light wine.
Museums and galleries are great for rainy days. The National Tile Museum and Calouste Gulbenkian Museum offer a deep dive into Portuguese art and history. These places are usually less crowded in fall.
Lisbon’s neighborhoods often host smaller fairs with food stalls, music, and crafts. It’s a fun way to experience local traditions. Schedules change year to year, but you can almost always find some kind of community event happening in the fall.
Lisbon’s Fall Nightlife
When the evenings cool down, Lisbon’s nightlife feels both lively and surprisingly comfortable. Bairro Alto still draws the biggest crowds, its maze of narrow streets buzzing with tiny bars and live music.
You can hop between places pretty easily since everything sits close together. It’s one of those neighborhoods where you never feel too far from the next spot.
Looking for something a bit more low-key? Alfama’s your answer, especially if you’re into fado. Those cozy taverns and tucked-away restaurants offer a real glimpse into Portugal’s musical soul.
Cais do Sodré, on the other hand, has bigger clubs and some late-night cafés if that’s more your speed. People often spill onto patios and sidewalks, enjoying the crisp fall air as they chat or people-watch.
With so many traditional and modern options, you can really shape your night however you want.
Day Trips from Lisbon During Fall
The cooler weather and thinner crowds make fall a great time to check out nearby towns. You get the cultural sights and coastal views, plus good food and wine, all without the summer chaos.
Sintra: Palaces and Nature
It only takes about 40 minutes by train to reach Sintra from Lisbon, which makes it an easy day trip. The town’s famous for its palaces, lush gardens, and those sweeping hillside views.
You’ll spot the Pena Palace perched high above, painted in bright colors and full of quirky details. Right nearby, the Moorish Castle stretches along the ridge, its old stone walls offering some pretty stunning views.
If crowds aren’t your thing, Monserrate Palace and its gardens feel much quieter and more spacious.
Sintra’s fall weather usually stays mild, though sometimes it gets a bit damp, so you’ll want to bring a light jacket. The cooler air actually makes those uphill walks a lot more bearable than in the middle of summer.
Many of the trails in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park are shaded, making them perfect for a quick hike.
Definitely wear comfortable shoes because the roads are steep and cobbled—it’s not the place for fancy footwear. If you’re hoping to dodge the biggest crowds, try arriving early before the tour buses show up.
Setúbal: Wine and Coastal Beauty
Setúbal sits about 50 minutes south of Lisbon, whether you drive or hop on a train. People know the area for its seafood, vineyards, and those sweeping Atlantic views.
The Arrábida Natural Park really stands out. Limestone hills rise up, and small beaches stay pleasant even in the fall.
Cooler days make it easier to wander the trails or just kick back with a picnic overlooking the water.
If you love wine, you can visit local estates and try Moscatel de Setúbal. This fortified wine is something you won’t find anywhere else.
Vineyards often combine tastings with tours of their cellars, which is always fun if you ask me.
In town, you should check out the Mercado do Livramento. It’s a great spot for fresh fish and local produce.
Maybe you want something a bit quieter? Hop on a ferry across the Sado River, and you might spot dolphins that live in the estuary all year.
Fall usually brings dry, sunny days, but you could get an occasional shower. If you plan to hike or stroll along the coast, a light raincoat and sturdy shoes will come in handy.