Weather in Portugal in November

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp edge, November is a particularly cozy time to take a trip to Portugal. This is a time of year when the summer crowds have dispersed, leaving behind a tranquil atmosphere.  It's a perfect month for strolls on the beach, scenic drives, and exploring cities like Lisbon or Porto. Here is our guide to the weather in Portugal in November.

The weather in Portugal in November at a glance

• November in Portugal brings cooler temperatures and some rain, so it's a good idea to pack a jacket and an umbrella.
• Temperatures usually range from 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C), which is mild but not too warm.
• This time of year is quieter for tourism, meaning fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation rates. 

What is the weather like in Portugal in November?

November in Portugal usually brings cooler temperatures and a noticeable uptick in rain. It’s the time of year when things start to feel more like winter, especially in the north. Across the country, you’ll get a mix of mild to cool days, shorter daylight hours, and the occasional downpour (though getting around Portugal during this month is relatively easy).

Rainfall tends to fall somewhere between 80 and 120mm for the month, but it really depends on where you are. The north typically sees more rain than the south, especially later in the month.

If you're planning to spend a lot of time outside, it's worth keeping the weather in mind. Rainy days can make hiking less enjoyable, and beach days are usually off the table. Cultural sites and indoor activities are still a good bet, though — most stay open year-round. Wet roads can also slow things down a bit if you're driving around. As long as you pack layers and bring a rain jacket, November can be a laid-back time to explore Portugal without the summer crowds.

Is November a good time to visit Portugal?

November isn’t peak season, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s a quieter month with cooler weather, and that makes it a pretty relaxed time to explore. You’ll still get mild days — good for walking around cities, hiking in the countryside (see our guide to hiking in Portugal), or visiting wineries without breaking a sweat. The landscapes, especially in the Douro Valley or Alentejo, start to shift into fall colors.

The ocean’s definitely on the cold side for swimming, but the beaches are still worth visiting — more for coastal walks than sunbathing. There are also a few seasonal events around this time — local wine celebrations, chestnut festivals, that kind of thing — especially in smaller towns and rural areas.

What about crowds and costs?

By November, the summer crowds are long gone. Most places feel calmer, even the more popular cities and tourist spots. It’s a good time if you prefer slower travel and don’t mind that some smaller attractions might be running on reduced hours.

Prices usually drop too. Flights, hotels, and even some activities cost less than in the peak or shoulder seasons. You might find discounts or last-minute deals, especially on accommodation. It’s worth checking what's still running, but overall, it’s a solid month if you're trying to keep costs down.
If you're looking for a similarly quiet time but with less chance of rain, late February or early March might also be worth considering.
 

Average temperatures in November

November is when things start to cool down and the rainy season picks up. Across the country, daytime highs usually land between 60°F and 68°F (16–20°C), while nighttime temperatures often dip into the mid-40s to low 50s (7–10°C). It’s noticeably cooler and wetter than in summer, but still fairly mild, especially compared to northern Europe.

You’ll get around 10 hours of daylight at the start of the month, dropping to about 9 by the end. The sea temperature hovers around 63–66°F (17–19°C), which feels pretty chilly for swimming unless you're used to cold water or have a wetsuit. Expect mixed weather — you might get a string of dry, mild days or a run of gray skies and rain, so it's good to pack for a bit of everything.

Porto and northern Portugal

November in the north tends to be the wettest part of the country. Porto sees average highs around 57–60°F (14–16°C) and lows near 46–50°F (8–10°C). Rainfall is common, and it can feel damp, especially with cloudy skies hanging around. You’ll want to bring layers and a rain jacket if you’re visiting this time of year. It’s not freezing, but the mix of cooler air and moisture can feel brisk, especially in the evenings. See our guide to how many days you need in Porto. 

Lisbon and central Portugal

Lisbon and central Portugal are a little warmer and drier than the north. Daytime highs usually reach the mid-60s °F (17–19°C), and lows hover in the low 50s °F (11–13°C). November brings more rain than October, but there are still dry stretches. You might get sunny afternoons where a light jacket is enough, but evenings cool off quickly. While it’s not quite beach weather, the city is pleasant for walking, with fewer crowds than in peak season. The city stays active well into the evening and it's a great time for a Lisbon city break. 

The Algarve and southern Portugal

Down south in the Algarve, November is still relatively mild. Daytime highs hit the upper 60s °F (19–20°C), and nights dip into the mid-50s °F (12–14°C). Rain is more frequent than in summer but usually comes in short bursts. You’ll still get stretches of sunny weather, which makes the region a good pick for off-season trips. The ocean is cooler — around 64°F (18°C) — so swimming isn’t ideal unless you’re wearing a wetsuit. Still, the beaches are quiet and the air feels crisp.

Madiera

Madeira stays warmer than the mainland, with daytime highs in the low 70s °F (21–23°C) and nighttime temps rarely falling below the mid-60s °F (17–19°C). November is part of the island’s wetter season, but the rain usually comes and goes quickly. You’ll still see a good amount of sunshine. The sea remains relatively warm at around 72–73°F (22–23°C), so swimming is still an option, especially for those used to cooler waters.

Where to go in Portugal in November

November’s a good time for museums, long lunches, and coastal towns that feel calm again after summer. Here’s our favorites for this month, or for more ideas see our guide to the best places to visit in Portugal.

Alentejo Region

Alentejo in November feels open and relaxed. The trees shift into fall colors, and the pace of life matches the season—slower, quieter, but still full of character. Évora is a solid place to start. It’s compact, walkable, and has a mix of Roman ruins, whitewashed houses, and old city walls. From there, it’s easy to take short drives to places like Monsaraz, which overlook sthe Alqueva Reservoir and is especially peaceful in the off-season. Marvão is another small hilltop town worth the climb, perched on a granite crag with wide views. The region’s known for its food too, so this time of year is good for trying local dishes in less touristy settings.

Sintra

Sintra is a lot more enjoyable in November without the lines and day-trippers. It might be misty or overcast, but that just adds to the atmosphere. You can actually take your time walking through Pena Palace or exploring the yards at Quinta da Regaleira without feeling rushed. Monserrate is usually quiet, and the surrounding trails are nice for walking now that it’s cooler. It’s a good month to really explore the area.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Down in the Algarve, Ria Formosa shifts into winter mode with fewer tourists and more birds. November is when a lot of migratory species show up, so it’s a good time to visit if you like quiet landscapes and wildlife. You’ll likely see flamingos, spoonbills, and other water birds moving through the lagoons and marshes. It’s easy to explore—either on foot along the trails or by boat through the channels. The light’s softer in November, and it’s a nice time to just be out there, even if you’re not into birdwatching.
 

What to do in Portugal in November

November is a good time to be in Portugal if you're into a slower, more local kind of travel. The crowds from summer are long gone, and things feel more grounded. You’ll find seasonal festivals, regional food traditions, and a few experiences that don’t really happen at any other time of year.  For more ideas, see our guide to undiscovered Portugal off the tourist trail.

Coruche International Ballooning Festival

This festival takes place in Coruche, a town in the Ribatejo region. It’s known for its cork forests, but in November, the main event is up in the air—literally. Dozens of hot air balloons elevator off around sunrise and sunset, and it’s a quiet, colorful sight over the hills and farmland. You can book a balloon ride if you’re up for it, but you don’t need to be in the air to enjoy it.  This is a great thing to do when on a trip to Portugal with kids.

Olive harvesting

November is when the olive harvest kicks off in Portugal, and it’s a good time to visit rural estates and farms. A lot of places let visitors join in on the process. You might help knock olives from the trees with long sticks, or just watch how they’re processed at traditional mills. These aren’t polished tours—it’s more about getting a feel for the work and the rhythm of the season. It usually ends with a tasting: fresh olive oil, bread, maybe some cheese and wine. 

St. Martin's Day

St. Martin’s Day falls on November 11 and is celebrated pretty widely across Portugal, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. It’s known as Magusto and usually involves gathering around a fire, roasting chestnuts, and drinking the season’s first wine. People also make jeropiga, a sweet fortified wine that’s easy to find this time of year. Some towns put on street fairs or markets, with music and food stalls. It’s not a huge tourist event, but if you’re around, it’s a nice

Plan your trip to Portugal in November

A few extra pointers and  Portugal travel tips to help you plan your winter trip:

What to pack

November feels like proper fall. Waterproof gear is useful now—a solid rain jacket, shoes that can handle puddles, and a small umbrella. You’ll probably want sweaters and maybe a thermal base layer for evenings. The Algarve stays relatively mild, but it’s still cool compared to earlier in the year, so pack accordingly. Scarves or other quick-add layers can help with temperature changes throughout the day. This is a good month for indoor stuff—like Lisbon’s museums or Porto’s bookstores—so think about shoes that dry quickly and a small bag that keeps your things dry.

Planning your itinerary

If you’re visiting Portugal in November, taking a look at a sample itinerary can help you balance your time between cities and the coast. Here are some great Portugal itinerary guides to follow:

• Portugal 5 days itinerary: Spend 2 days in Lisbon, exploring Alfama, Belém, and Baixa. Then head to Porto for 3 days, checking out Ribeira, visiting wine cellars, and taking a river cruise.
• Portugal one week itinerary: This guide will take you from Foz do Minho to Nazaré, Caparica, Galapos, Comporta, and the Algarve beaches.
• Portugal 10 days itinerary: Explore Lagos, Évora, Elvas, Lisbon, Coimbra, Serra da Estrela, Porto, and Peneda-Gerês National Park in 10 days.

When to book

November is when the off-season really starts. Prices are low, and there’s hardly any competition for good places—aside from a short spike around All Saints’ Day (November 1). For accommodations, even higher-end places can often be booked just 2–3 weeks in advance, and you’ll find solid discounts. For longer stays try apartment rentals—monthly rates are often flexible. Just double-check opening hours since some attractions scale back for winter.

Emergency weather information

November brings more frequent rain, especially in the northern and central parts of the country. Waterproof shoes, a compact flashlight, and a basic emergency kit can be useful if you're traveling during this time. You can register with your country’s embassy for alerts and follow the IPMA’s color-coded system for weather updates. If you ever need assistance, call 112, or 808 781 212 for tourist support. Local shelters might include places like town halls, churches, or schools. After heavy rain, it’s best to avoid walking through flooded areas and to be careful around older buildings or uneven streets. 

Ready to plan your next trip? Check out our guide on how to plan a trip to Portugal, full of must-see places, activities, and more, or dive into our Portugal travel guide and curated Portugal trips for even more ideas.