top of page
Search

Visiting Lisbon in September, October, and November 2025: Your Ultimate Autumn Guide

Updated: 4 hours ago

ree

Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, shines in autumn with golden foliage, mild weather, and a vibrant cultural scene. From September to November 2025, the city offers a perfect blend of fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and a packed calendar of events, festivals, and fairs. This guide dives into the best things to do, local markets like Rossio, food and sweets to savor, fado experiences, and more to make your autumn visit unforgettable.

Weather in Lisbon: Autumn 2025

Autumn in Lisbon is a sweet spot for travelers, with warm days and cooler evenings. Here’s what to expect:

  • September: Average highs of 77°F (25°C) and lows of 63°F (17°C), with about 5 rainy days. Days are long, with sunsets around 8 PM, ideal for outdoor exploration.

  • October: Highs around 73°F (23°C) and lows of 60°F (16°C), with 7–10 rainy days. The weather remains comfortable for sightseeing, though occasional showers may occur.

  • November: Cooler with highs of 65°F (18°C) and lows of 54°F (12°C), and up to 10 rainy days. The Christmas season begins late in the month, bringing festive cheer.

Packing Tips: Bring layers—light jackets, long-sleeve shirts, and a compact umbrella for occasional rain. Comfortable shoes are a must for Lisbon’s hilly, cobblestone streets. Sunglasses and sunscreen are still handy, especially in September.

Events, Festivals, and Fairs

Lisbon’s autumn calendar is bursting with cultural and festive events. Here are the highlights for 2025 with confirmed or projected dates:

  • Santa Casa Alfama Festival (Late September 2025)Location: Alfama districtDetails: This soulful fado festival transforms Alfama’s cobbled streets into a stage for Portugal’s iconic music. Expect performances by emerging and renowned fado singers in venues like the Museu do Fado and Largo de São Miguel. Pair the music with street food and local wines. Book tickets early for intimate shows (from €18–€80).


  • MOTELx – Lisbon International Horror Film Festival (Mid-September 2025)Location: Cinema São Jorge, Avenida da LiberdadeDetails: A must for film buffs, MOTELx showcases global horror films, including premieres, shorts, and director Q&As. Tickets typically cost €5–€10. Perfect for a spooky evening in the historic cinema.

  • Happy Holi Colour Festival (September 2025)Location: Various city locations (TBC)Details: Inspired by the Indian Holi festival, this vibrant event features DJ sets, dance music, and clouds of colorful powders. It’s a joyful, family-friendly celebration, with free entry to most public areas.


  • Iberian Mask Festival (September 2025)Location: Central Lisbon streetsDetails: This pre-carnival spectacle features elaborate costumes and masquerades from Portuguese and Spanish traditions. Expect parades along Avenida da Liberdade, free to the public, with a whimsical, historical vibe.


  • Explore Lisbon in Exciting Tours


  • EDP Lisbon Marathon (October 5, 2025)Location: Starts in Cascais, ends at Praça do ComércioDetails: One of the world’s most scenic marathons, this race follows the Tagus River with stunning views. Options include a full marathon, half, or 10K. Spectators can cheer along the route, especially at the finish line in downtown Lisbon. Free to watch, registration for runners starts at €30.


  • DocLisboa – Documentary Film Festival (October 16–26, 2025)Location: Various venues, including Cinema São JorgeDetails: This 11-day festival showcases thought-provoking documentaries from global filmmakers. Tickets range from €5–€12, with debates and workshops adding depth to the experience.


  • Moda Lisboa – Lisbon Fashion Week (October 9–12, 2025)Location: Central Lisbon (TBC)Details: Portugal’s premier fashion event features workshops and runway shows by local designers. Some events are open to the public, with ticket prices varying (€10–€50).


  • French Film Festival (October 2–November 29, 2025)Location: Cinema São Jorge, Cinemateca Portuguesa, and NOS AmoreirasDetails: Celebrating its 26th edition, this festival showcases French cinematic masterpieces. Tickets cost €4–€8, with screenings across multiple venues.


  • São Martinho Festival (November 11, 2025)Location: Citywide, especially in restaurants and wine barsDetails: Celebrate Saint Martin’s Day with new wine tastings and roasted chestnuts, a beloved Portuguese tradition. Many venues offer special menus featuring local wines and seasonal snacks. Free to join at most public events.


  • Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival (Leffest) (November 7–16, 2025)Location: Various venues in Lisbon and EstorilDetails: A cinephile’s dream, Leffest features global films, art exhibitions, and masterclasses. Tickets range from €6–€15.

  • Lisboa Games Week (November 20–23, 2025)Location: Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL)Details: A paradise for gamers, this event offers e-sports, demos, and tech showcases. Tickets start at €10, great for families and tech enthusiasts.


  • Christmas Markets (Late November–Early January 2026)Location: Rossio Square, Parque Eduardo VII, Praça do ComércioDetails: Starting in late November, Lisbon’s Christmas markets bring festive cheer with crafts, food stalls, and glühwein (mulled wine). Rossio Square hosts a vibrant market with local artisans, while Parque Eduardo VII’s Winter Wonderland features Europe’s largest Christmas tree and family-friendly attractions like ice skating. Free entry, with food and crafts for purchase.

Things to Do in Lisbon

Autumn’s mild weather and fewer crowds make it ideal for exploring Lisbon’s attractions:


  • Wander Lisbon’s Parks: See autumn foliage at Parque Eduardo VII, Jardim da Estrela, or the Tropical Botanical Garden in Belém. These parks are free and perfect for leisurely walks or picnics.


  • Visit Belém: Explore the Jerónimos Monastery (€10, free with Lisboa Card) and Belém Tower (€6) without summer crowds. Pair with a custard tart from Pastéis de Belém.



  • Hike in Monsanto Forest Park: Known as Lisbon’s “Green Lungs,” this park offers trails like the 4.5-mile Blue Trail with city views. Free entry, open 24 hours.

  • BEST LISBON FOOD


  • Lisbon Oceanarium: Perfect for rainy days, this massive aquarium in Parque das Nações captivates all ages. Tickets cost €19, open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM.


  • Wine Tasting in Setúbal: A 1-hour trip from Lisbon, Setúbal’s wineries like Bacalhôa Vinhos offer tastings during the September–October grape harvest. Tours start at €15.


  • Tagus River Sunset Cruise: Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water with a 1–2 hour cruise. Prices start at €22, with some including fado performances.

Local Markets

Lisbon’s markets are a treasure trove of local flavors and crafts, especially in autumn:

  • Rossio Square Christmas Market (Late November–Early January 2026)Details: This festive market features wooden stalls with handmade gifts, ceramics, and seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and ginjinha (cherry liqueur). Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, free entry.


  • Time Out Market (Year-Round)Location: Cais do SodréDetails: A foodie haven with over 40 stalls offering seafood, pastéis de nata, and artisanal sangria. Autumn’s quieter vibe makes it easier to snag a table. Open daily, 10 AM–midnight.


  • Jardim da Estrela Craft Market (Weekly)Location: Jardim da EstrelaDetails: Held weekly (dates vary), this market offers handmade souvenirs and local snacks. Perfect for a leisurely autumn stroll. Free entry.


  • Feira da Ladra (Tuesdays and Saturdays)Location: Campo de Santa Clara, AlfamaDetails: Lisbon’s famous flea market sells antiques, books, and vintage items. Autumn’s mild weather enhances the open-air experience. Free entry, 9 AM–6 PM.


Popular Sweets and Food to Eat

Lisbon’s autumn cuisine blends hearty comfort food with sweet indulgences:

  • Pastéis de Nata: Creamy custard tarts with flaky crusts. Try them at Pastéis de Belém (€1.20 each) or Manteigaria for a fresh twist.


  • Bacalhau à Brás: Shredded cod with onions, fries, and scrambled eggs, a cozy dish for cooler days. Find it at Taberna da Rua das Flores (€12–€15).




  • Ginjinha: A sour cherry liqueur served in small shots, a must-try at A Ginjinha near Rossio (€1.50). Warm up with it at Christmas markets.


  • Roasted Chestnuts: A São Martinho staple, sold by street vendors in November for €2–€3 per bag.


  • Arroz de Marisco: A rich seafood rice dish with clams and shrimp, found at Marisqueira Uma (€15–€20).


For a deeper dive, join a food tour like Eating Europe’s Undiscovered Lisbon Food & Wine Tour (€135), which includes tastings in Alfama.


Fado Experiences

Fado, Portugal’s soulful music of love and loss, is a must-experience in autumn’s cozy ambiance:

  • Museu do Fado (Alfama): Learn about fado’s history and catch live performances during the Santa Casa Alfama Festival. Museum entry is €5, shows vary from €18–€23.


  • Fado in Chiado: A 50-minute live show in the historic center with port wine. Tickets cost €24, with skip-the-line options. Daily at 7 PM.

  • O Faia (Bairro Alto): A traditional fado house offering dinner and live performances. Expect to spend €50–€80 for a full experience. Reservations recommended.


  • Alfama Fado Tour with Dinner: A 4-hour tour combining a neighborhood walk with a live show and meal. Priced at €57, ideal for first-timers.


  • Boat Cruise with Fado: Enjoy a 1-hour Tagus River cruise with live fado and a drink for €34. Perfect for a romantic autumn evening.

Family-Friendly and Wonderland-Like Fairs

Autumn in Lisbon offers enchanting fairs for kids and adults:

  • Winter Wonderland at Parque Eduardo VII (Late November–Early January 2026)Details: Features Europe’s largest Christmas tree, an ice rink, carousel, and Santa’s village. Free entry, with rides and food for purchase (€2–€10). A magical experience for families.


  • Mercado de Natal at Rossio Square (Late November–Early January 2026)Details: A festive market with crafts, lights, and kid-friendly activities like Santa photo ops. Free entry, open daily.


  • Diverlandia at FIL (December 12, 2025–January 4, 2026)Details: A funfair with rides, bumper cars, and family entertainment. Entry is free, with attractions priced €2–€8.

Additional Tips

  • Accommodation: Book early for September and October, as autumn is popular. Budget options like Pensão Londres start at €50/night, while mid-range hotels like Hotel Mundial cost €100–€150. Avoid peak holiday dates like Christmas for better rates.


  • Transport: Use the Lisboa Card (€20–€40) for free public transport and museum entry. The metro and trams are efficient for navigating hills.


  • Crowd Avoidance: Visit attractions like Castelo de São Jorge early in the morning or book skip-the-line tours (€30–€50) to beat lines.



Conclusion

Lisbon in autumn 2025 is a vibrant mix of cultural festivals, cozy fado nights, and delicious seasonal treats. Whether you’re strolling through markets, savoring pastéis de nata, or cheering at the marathon, the city’s charm will captivate you. Plan ahead, pack for variable weather, and dive into Lisbon’s autumn magic!








 
 
 
bottom of page