Weather
November marks the onset of winter in Portugal, and the weather can be more temperamental, bringing more downpours to cities and storms to the Atlantic coast. In the northern city of Porto, high temperatures now max at 62°F (17°C), though they can drop as low as 48°F (9°C), and around 11 wet days are to be expected.
Moving south toward Lisbon, it's a shade warmer, with highs hitting 64°F (18°C), lows of 54°F (12°C), and nine days of rain. The Algarve fares better still, with average daily temperatures still hovering around 66°F (19°C). There's still more sunshine than showers, but the beach weather is long gone. Bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, sweater, and umbrella, to be on the safe side.
Crowds & Costs
One of the major advantages of visiting Portugal in November is that you'll have the country pretty much to your (lucky) self. Yes, you'll have to contend with the whims of the weather, but if you don't mind sacrificing a little sunshine, this is a terrific time to explore.
Deals? You bet. November is Portugal's rock-bottom low season, and the hotels and guesthouses that are still open offer tempting discounts (expect to pay as little as half of what you would for a room in the peak summer season). Flights are very cheap now, too, but some airlines might be running reduced services.
Where to Go
The cities have been more or less deserted, and lines at the big sights and attractions are joyously few in hotspots like Lisbon and Porto. It's a great time to come if you don't mind the occasional drizzle and slippery cobblestones in the back alleys (dress accordingly).
Food tours (either professional or self-guided) and visits to port-wine lodges now come into their own, as do museum and gallery days. With few other travelers around, this is one of the best months to see the cities at their low-key and arguably most authentic best.
The beaches of the Algarve and Atlantic west coast are virtually empty (and many seaside hotels and restaurants have shut up for the season), but if you're just day-tripping to hike a coastal trail and manage to pick a bright day, they're never better.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
The south is still seeing a fair bit more sunshine, so if that's a priority, turn your gaze perhaps to the Alentejo, with its delightfully rural farmstays, hills beaded with pretty whitewashed hamlets, and some of the country's best food. Even the popular UNESCO-protected site of Évora, a medieval delight of rambling alleys and Roman archaeological ruins, falls silent now.
Alternatively, for a pinch more warmth and zero crowds, head for the coast and lushly forested interior of the Algarve down south. Most resorts have closed their doors for the season, but you'll find the odd hotel and guesthouse still open, especially in larger towns like Lagos and Faro.
Events in November
Porto Marathon. In early November, runners pound the streets of Porto, beginning at the Parque da Cidade and heading along the riverfront, ticking off many of the city's iconic sights.
Feira Nacional do Cavalo, Golegã. Held over the first two weeks of November, this national horse fair takes place in the town of Golegã in the rural Ribatejo region. Riders in traditional attire saddle up their beautiful Lusitano horses for parades and dressage competitions. Book accommodation well ahead.
São Martinho, Nationwide (November 11). The Portuguese honor St Martin at a harvest festival of sorts, with roasted chestnuts and new wine from the recent harvest, and bonfires blazing. It's at its authentic best in rural regions like the Trás-os-Montes.
Traveling to Portugal in November? Check out these great itineraries
Portugal's Jewish Heritage, Porto & Lisbon - 5 Days. Now is the time to take advantage of the thin crowds and deep dive into Portugal's Jewish heritage, starting with a visit to the medieval town of Óbidos and a tour of the city of Porto. You'll discover unknown Jewish history in the Templar City of Tomar, examining the historic synagogue and heritage museum. You'll end in Lisbon, where visits to synagogues, memorials, and old Jewish quarters in the city expose the turbulent and unique history of the capital.
Portugal Scenic Coastal Hike: Cascais, Azóia, Colares & Sintra - 8 Days. Discover Portugal's wild side on this coastal hiking trip. The adventure will begin with a food tour of Lisbon and a rest day in the gorgeous beach town of Cascais. Spend the next four days trekking around the expansive Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, passing through forests, dunes, coastal towns, and hilltop sanctuaries. End with some downtime in Sintra, a charming village known for its impressive palaces and castles.
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