If youโre eyeing Portugal for a little November escapade, youโre in for a treatโand a few sprinkles of rain. But donโt let a little drizzle stop you; November is when Portugal swaps out its beach crowd for a cozier vibe thatโs all about cobblestone strolls, warm pastries, and (of course) wine. Letโs break down why this underrated month might just be Portugalโs best-kept secret. Let’s chat all things Portugal in November.
This post contains affiliate links
ย Find Awesome Portugal Hotels
Portugal Weather in November
November in Portugal is like that sweater weather you want but donโt need to go full winter for. Youโll get mild temperatures ranging from 55ยฐF to 65ยฐF (13ยฐC to 18ยฐC), depending on where you are. Lisbon and Porto might greet you with some light rain (call it Portuguese ambiance), while the Algarve stays sunnier for those holding on to summer vibes.
Pro Tip: Pack layers, throw in a waterproof jacket, and if youโre like me and refuse to let your hair get frizzy, maybe an umbrella too. Portugalโs got a love-hate relationship with November rain.

Top Portugal Places To Visit in November
While the beach might be a little chilly, Portugalโs cities and countryside are where November magic happens.
Lisbon: The Perfect Blend of Cozy Cafรฉs and Photo Ops
Lisbon in November is like that friend who knows how to throw a great house party. Head to Alfama for soulful Fado music, grab a bica (espresso) at any corner cafรฉ, and snap a few dreamy mist-filled shots of the Ponte 25 de Abril Bridge. If the rain picks up, just duck into the nearest pastelaria (pastry shop) and order a pastel de nata or two. Or five. Whoโs counting?
I also would recommend you venture out to nearby cities and take day trips to places like Cascais, Obidos, and Evora. We visited Evora for a day and it was delightful.
Porto and the Douro Valley: A Vineyard Dream
Portoโs cozy vibes crank up to eleven in November. The city is home to some seriously atmospheric wine cellars, so if youโre into red wine that could basically be a hug, youโve found your place. And speaking of wine, the Douro Valleyโs vineyards are ripe for visiting (and tasting). Autumn colors, a glass of tawny port, and a riverside viewโyes, please.
Check out Douro Travel Tips.
Algarve: An Unexpected Winter Beach Scene
Now, if youโre still craving some beach time, the Algarve is your best bet. November here is way less crowded, and you might just get a few sunny days. Think of it as a quiet beach retreat with cliffside hikes instead of sandcastle contests.
Algarve in november weather
Temperature Range:
- Daily Highs and Lows: They probably want to know the average highs during the day and how cool it gets at night, so they can plan their outfits and pack accordingly.
Rainfall and Precipitation:
- Likelihood of Rain: November is wetter in the Algarve compared to summer months, so theyโre likely wondering how much rain to expect and how frequently it rains.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours:
- Hours of Sunshine: November days are shorter, so information on how many daylight hours theyโll get is useful, especially for sightseeing and outdoor plans.
- Cloud Cover and Sun Probability: Knowing if itโll be mostly cloudy or if there are chances of sunny days helps with planning both outdoor and indoor activities.
Sea Temperature:
- Swimming Conditions: They might want to know if itโs still warm enough to swim or if the water temperature is too chilly.
Overall Vibe (Comfort):
- Wind, Humidity, and Comfort Level: People often want a feel for the overall comfort of the weatherโwhether itโs breezy, humid, or just right for outdoor exploring and beach walks.
Portugalโs November Festivals
Portugal keeps the party going year-round, and Novemberโs no exception. If youโre looking to mingle with locals, hereโs where to be:
- Saint Martinโs Day (Dia de Sรฃo Martinho): On November 11th, join the locals in roasting chestnuts, sipping vinho verde, and celebrating with a ton of food. Think of it as Portugalโs laid-back version of Thanksgiving.
- Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival: Film buffs, this oneโs for you. International cinema takes over Lisbon and Sintra with screenings, panels, and sometimes a celeb sighting or two. Itโs like Cannes, but with better pastries.

Things to Do (Rain or Shine) In Portugal in November
Portugal knows how to entertain, whether itโs sunny or a little damp. Hereโs a quick guide to November-friendly activities:
- Wine Tasting in the Douro: Because whatโs a little rain when youโre indoors with a glass of port? Plenty of vineyards offer tastings, and you get to skip the summer rush.
- Hiking the Countryside: Peneda-Gerรชs National Park is Portugalโs answer to the great outdoors. The autumn leaves give it a fairytale vibe, and if you donโt mind a drizzle, itโs a photographerโs dream.
- Cozy up in Sintraโs Palaces: Misty mornings make Sintraโs palaces look like something out of a gothic novel. Pack a light scarf, stroll through Pena Palace, and channel your inner moody romantic.
Practical Tips for the Savvy November Traveler
Letโs get real for a sec: Traveling in November means fewer crowds and sometimes cheaper prices, but there are a few things you should know.
- Hotels and Flights: November often comes with off-season rates, which means your wallet gets a break. Check for deals, especially if youโre booking those charming boutique hotels in Lisbon or beach resorts in the Algarve.
- Packing Essentials: Bring layers, comfy walking shoes, and a rain jacket. And since the beach isnโt the main attraction, you can swap the swimsuit for that one cute sweater youโve been wanting to bring out.
- Dining Like a Local: Some beachside spots might have shorter hours, but the cities are thriving with cozy tavernas. Donโt leave without trying caldo verde, Portugalโs deliciously simple green soupโitโs comfort food done right.

Quick Itineraries: Make the Most of Your November Trip
Need a little itinerary inspiration? Here are some options:
- 3-Day Lisbon Getaway: Spend your first day exploring the Alfama, your second day hopping through Belemโs historic sites, and wrap up with a Fado night in Bairro Alto.
- 7-Day City & Countryside: Start in Lisbon, detour to Sintra for a day, spend a few nights in Porto, and end with a vineyard visit in the Douro Valley.
- Weekend Escape to Porto: Take in Portoโs riverfront, sip wine in Gaia, and catch sunset views from the Dom Luรญs I Bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time to visit Portugal?
Absolutely! Fewer crowds, cool weather, and vibrant culture make it a hidden gem for off-season travel.
What should I pack?
Think layers, a light raincoat, comfy shoes, and a little something for cozy evenings out.
Can I still visit the beach?
Yes, but donโt expect tropical vibesโjust a peaceful coastline and the perfect excuse for a brisk seaside walk.
Final Thoughts
Portugal in November is for those who like their travels with a side of low-key charm. You get culture, cozy vibes, and that perfect mix of outdoor and indoor activities. So pack your bags (and maybe an umbrella), and get ready to see Portugal in its most relaxed, autumnal glory.
And if youโre already picturing yourself in a Lisbon cafรฉ with a pastel de nata, well, youโre not alone.