Portugal in October: Weather, Events and Where to Go

October is one of the best months to visit Portugal: the summer crowds have gone, the sea is still warm, the light is golden, and there’s plenty going on, from the end of the Douro harvest to surf contests and the start of Nazaré’s big-wave season. Here’s what to expect.

Quick answer: expect around 22°C in Lisbon and the Algarve, with mostly sunny days and the first rain later in the month. The sea is at its warmest of the year. Highlights: the World Surf League at Peniche, Nazaré’s big waves, the Fátima pilgrimage (12–13 October) and the Lisbon Marathon. Prices drop after the summer.

Weather

• Lisbon: highs around 22°C, cooler evenings.
• Porto and the north: around 19–20°C, with more rain from mid-month.
• The Algarve: warm and sunny, often 23–24°C, perfect beach weather.
• Madeira: around 24°C.

What’s on

• The end of the Douro harvest (early October). See Douro wine tours.
• Lisbon Marathon along the coast (10 October in 2026).
• Fátima pilgrimage (12–13 October). See Fátima.
• World Surf League, Peniche (mid to late October). See surfing in Portugal.
• Nazaré’s big-wave season begins. See Nazaré.
• Motorsport at the Algarve circuit near Portimão. See Portimão.

Where to go

• The Algarve: warm sea and quiet beaches. See the best Algarve beaches.
• Lisbon and Porto: perfect city weather. See things to do in Lisbon.
• The Douro: autumn colours in the vineyards. See the Douro itinerary.
• Madeira and the Azores: still lovely, with whale watching.

Tips

• Pack layers and a light rain jacket.
• Boat trips may be cancelled more often as the swell builds.
• Water parks close at the end of October; Slide & Splash closes on 31 October.
• Prices fall and hotels have availability.

More: Portugal in autumn, November and the festivals calendar.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.