Are you intrigued about visiting Lisbon in November? Here’s why you should add it to your list!
Lisbon will forever be one of my favourite cities.
The cobbled streets lead the way up its many hills that lead to epic viewpoints over the River Tagus.
There are ample cafes serving delicious food, which offer al fresco seating year-round.
Museums throw open their doors and tell stories of Portuguese culture.
What’s not to love?
Touching on the winter months, November is still a great time to see Lisbon.
Sunny weather is still common, but it’s usually a few degrees cooler (for me, Lisbon in November has much more pleasant temperatures than in the peak season!).
So, here are all my top reasons to visit Lisbon in November!
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Table of Contents
Reasons to visit Lisbon in November
From excellent weather to local festivals and events, here are all of the best reasons to visit Lisbon in November!
Perfect weather
Forget the winter blues: Lisbon serves up winters where daytime temperatures are often a balmy 18°C (65°F) – or higher.
What does this mean for you? Outdoor cafés along the Tagus River stay bustling, perfect for a leisurely espresso.
Rooftop bars? Not just for summer. Lisbon’s terraces offer breathtaking views, best enjoyed with a warm breeze.
Gardens like Jardim do Príncipe Real aren’t barren winter wastelands but vibrant spots for a casual stroll or impromptu picnics.
Or you could cycle along the waterfront from Cais do Sodré to Belém – it’s much more comfortable than the hot summer season!
Fewer tourists
Winter in Lisbon means fewer tourists.
Stroll through the iconic Belem Tower or Jeronimos Monastery without a throng of selfie sticks clouding your view.
At normally congested viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, you can expect fewer heads in your panoramic shots!
Or head to Pastéis de Belém, famed for its egg tarts, and you might just skip the queue altogether.
Lisbon’s boutique shops and unique markets like Feira da Ladra are unhurried in November.
You can linger over artisanal crafts, retro collectables, or that perfect bottle of local wine, all without the pressure of a crowd nudging you along!
Cheaper rates
Cheaper rates across the board—from airfare to accommodation— make planning a budget trip effortless.
Lisbon’s generally an affordable city, in Western European terms, but in November, they’re even cheaper.
If you’ve been eyeing that river-facing suite at the Altis Belém Hotel, Winter slashes those room rates.
Some of Lisbon’s fine dining establishments roll out special winter menus at reduced prices.
And let’s not forget activities. Whether it’s a guided tour through Alfama’s labyrinthine lanes or a day trip to Sintra, off-season pricing makes it easier to indulge.
Plus, flights are generally cheaper too – I paid £20 for an off-season RyanAir flight a few years ago!
Magusto celebrations
Held in November, Magusto marks St. Martin’s Day or Dia de São Martinho.
In Lisbon, this is a day of community, street parties, and… chestnuts.
Lots of them.
You’ll stumble upon communal gatherings where locals roast chestnuts over open fires right on the street corners.
For a more organized affair, head to local squares or even to Lisbon’s famed food markets like Mercado da Ribeira.
Here, you can engage in communal chestnut roasting but with added entertainment—think traditional Portuguese folk music setting the rhythm for the night!
Lots of restaurants around Lisbon have specific Magusto menus.
However, all that said, it’s Portimão in the Algarve where you’ll find the biggest celebrations in Portugal!
Christmas markets
Lisbon’s Christmas markets start in the middle of the month and run until January, so November could be the perfect time to enjoy some festive cheer without too many crowds!
One can’t-miss spot is the Rossio Square Christmas Market.
Amidst the grandeur of Pombaline architecture, you’ll find stalls decked out in holiday attire, selling everything from artisanal crafts to seasonal treats.
Indulge in a pastel de nata with a holiday twist, or pick up some unique, locally-made ornaments that you won’t find in any big-box store.
Over at the Campo Pequeno arena, the Christmas Market takes on a different flavour—literally and figuratively.
Speciality foods from all over Portugal make an appearance.
It’s an opportunity to savour regional cheeses, sausages, and, of course, bottles of Portuguese wine ideal for gifting (or enjoying yourself).
Lisbon and Sintra Film Festival
The Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival, known as LEFFEST, offers a curated selection of international cinema.
Taking place in November, the festival transforms Lisbon and the neighbouring fairy-tale town of Sintra into movie havens.
LEFFEST is a multi-layered experience that delves into the world of cinema, arts, and philosophy.
Beyond the screenings, the festival offers masterclasses and panel discussions featuring acclaimed directors, actors, and film critics.
Want to pick the brain of an award-winning filmmaker? Now’s your chance!
The discussions aren’t limited to just film; they often branch out to cover literature, politics, and contemporary issues. It’s a melting pot of intellectual conversations.
The venues are as varied as the films themselves.
From historic theaters in Lisbon like Cinema São Jorge to cultural landmarks in Sintra, the settings add an extra layer of enchantment.
Best time for day trips
I think November is the ideal time for day-tripping from Lisbon.
The mild temperatures mean you won’t get too hot and bothered while walking around, and it’s before the Christmas rush in December.
Usually swamped in the summer months, the storybook town of Sintra is dreamy in winter.
Wander through the ornate halls of Palácio Nacional de Sintra or hike up to the colourful Palácio da Pena without bumping into too many fellow tourists.
The reduced crowd density means you can genuinely take your time, absorbing the details that make Sintra special.
Cascais, a seaside town, also comes into its own in the off-season.
The beaches might not be swim-friendly (the sea is fairly mild, but the waves are big!), but they’re an absolute beauty throughout the season!
The town’s galleries and museums, like the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego, are far less crowded too.
Fancy some wine? A quick trip to Azeitão gives you a chance to explore the region’s wineries without the summer rush.
Take part in wine tastings, tour the cellars, and learn about the art of winemaking from the experts, all without feeling hurried or cramped.
Or perhaps you’re inclined towards history? Then Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons.
Walk the ancient Roman ruins and medieval structures with the luxury of solitude!
It’s not really a day trip destination, but you could head up to Porto to extend your trip; it’ll be cooler, but it’s a beautiful city of churches and port wine!
I’ve only visited in January, but I imagine it’d be lovely in November too.
Things to do in Lisbon in November
- Take advantage of reduced crowd sizes and explore the Belém Tower at a leisurely pace.
- Immerse yourself in cinematic culture at the Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival.
- Join locals in the traditional Magusto celebrations, especially vibrant in Alfama and Bairro Alto.
- Savor a seafood feast without the long wait at the famed Cervejaria Ramiro.
- Discover the unbeatable views of the city from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte without the usual tourist clutter.
- Get a head start on holiday shopping at Rossio Square Christmas Market.
- Learn about Portugal’s maritime history at a less crowded Maritime Museum.
- Hop on the iconic Tram 28 without having to jostle for a good seat.
- Stroll the quaint lanes of LX Factory while enjoying its less busy winter ambiance.
- Visit Palácio Nacional de Sintra as a day trip, experiencing the castle without the crowds.
- Engage in wine tasting at the tranquil wineries in Azeitão.
- Traverse the UNESCO World Heritage site of Évora, taking in ancient Roman ruins and medieval architecture.
- Taste Lisbon’s famous egg tarts at Pastéis de Belém without the usual long lines.
- Marvel at the collection in the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, where winter means more space and time to enjoy the art.
- Take a peaceful walk along the shorelines of Cascais, one of the best places to visit in Portugal in winter.
Tips for visiting Lisbon in November
Bring layers
November in Lisbon sees temperatures ranging between 11°C (52°F) and 18°C (64°F).
Layering is key to staying comfortable, and a lightweight waterproof jacket can be a lifesaver for unexpected showers.
Watch the sunset, early
The sun sets around 5:30 PM. Make the most of it by watching it and taking photos from viewpoints like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Book Onto a Guided Tour
With fewer tourists around, guided tours offer a more personalized experience.
Whether it’s a historical tour of Belém or a culinary adventure in Alfama, you’ll benefit from smaller group sizes and more one-on-one time with guides.
Flexible Itinerary
November weather can be a mixed bag.
Keep your plans flexible with both indoor and outdoor activities, so you can adapt to the day’s weather conditions.
Check Operating Hours
Tourist season is winding down, and some businesses may adjust their hours.
A quick online check can save you the disappointment of arriving at a closed venue.
Weather in Lisbon in November
Thanks to Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate, the weather stays warm in November.
The average temperature is around 15°C, although it can be higher.
There’s also plenty of sunshine!
Here’s a table:
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Average High Temperature | 18°C (64°F) |
| Average Low Temperature | 12°C (54°F) |
| Days of rain | 9 |
Where to stay in Lisbon in November
So, where to stay in Lisbon once the summer crowds have dispersed?
The 3-star hotel throws in air-conditioned rooms, a terrace-side outdoor swimming pool, and free WiFi.
For your viewing pleasure, each room packs a flat-screen TV loaded with satellite channels.
Private bathroom? Check. Free toiletries and quality bed linen? Absolutely.
And let’s not forget the continental breakfast—because who wants to start their day hungry?
It is a bit of a walk from the coastline, up one of Lisbon’s famous hills, but the city has great public transport links and Uber, so I didn’t find this an issue when I stayed there.
Click here to read more about it.
Lisbon November FAQs
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about a Lisbon November trip!
Is it a good time to visit Lisbon in November?
November in Lisbon offers a refreshing change from the high-traffic summer months.
You’ll experience mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation prices.
With a range of events like the Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival, it’s a solid time for cultural enrichment as well.
Is Lisbon still warm in November?
Yes, Lisbon maintains a relatively warm climate even in November.
Average high temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F), while the lows are generally around 12°C (54°F).
You’ll find it warm enough for outdoor activities, although not quite beach weather.
Is it worth going to Portugal in November?
Absolutely. Portugal, and Lisbon in particular, provides a lot of value in November.
Beyond cost savings, you’ll have easier access to popular attractions and a range of events to choose from.
Also, the mild weather offers ideal conditions for day trips to nearby towns.
Can you sunbathe in Lisbon in November?
Sunbathing might be a stretch in November, given that the temperatures are milder and there are approximately 9 days of rainfall.
However, you can still enjoy some sunny days—just don’t expect it to be a beach holiday.
What should I wear in Lisbon in November?
Layering is the key. Given the mild but varying temperatures, it’s wise to bring layers that can be easily added or removed.
A light jacket or sweater is advisable for evenings, while daytime attire depends on the temperature – some days a t-shirt might be enough, others you might want a light knit.
