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 towards 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 at around 66°F (19°C). There’s still more sunshine than showers but the beach weather is long gone. Bring layers, including a waterproof and sweater, and an umbrella to be on the safe side.
Crowds & Costs
One of the major advantages of visiting Portugal in November is that you're going to 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 rock-bottom low season in Portugal 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 a reduced service.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
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 are never better.
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 World Heritage 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.
November Events
The parties and parades are fizzing out at this time of year, taking a brief pause before the full-on festivities December brings. That said, there are a couple of more low-key events that merit attention.
Porto Marathon In early November, runners pound the streets of Porto, which begins at the Parque da Cidade and heads along the riverfront, ticking off a lot of the city's iconic sights.
Feira Nacional do Cavalo Held over the first two weeks in November, this national horse fair happens in the town of Golegã in the rural Ribatejo region, where riders in traditional attire saddle up their beautiful Lusitano horses for parades and dressage competitions. Book accommodation well ahead.
São Martinho On November 11th, 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.
More Helpful Information
Portugal in October
Portugal in December
Portugal Tours & Itineraries
