Portugal in October 2025: Cost-Effective Tour in Autumn
I have been working at Odynovo for over 10 years and helped over 400 customers design customized tours to Portugal. Many of them preferred traveling to Portugal in October. Wondering why? Let's take 6 minutes at the points below:
Why Travel to Portugal in October
Is October a good time to visit Portugal? Many of our customers ask us about this before they make the decision to go. I will definitely say: YES! October is a cost-effective month to visit Portugal. The weather is comfortable, the landscape is beautiful, the accommodations are not very expensive compared with the peak season, and there are fewer crowds than in summer. Overall, October is a good balance between travel experience and cost.
How is Portugal's Weather in October
"How hot is it in October in Portugal?" "Can I go to the beach in October in Portugal?" These are hot topics about traveling to Portugal in October in forums. No worries! October is very comfortable for traveling, no matter whether you want to enjoy outdoor activities or go for a beach holiday in southern part. With mild weather, the average temperatures range from 13°C (55°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day. Occasional rainfall keeps the air fresh and clear. It is hard to deny that October is worth traveling to Portugal.
Is Portugal Crowded and Expensive in October
Portugal in October is still somewhat crowded, but there are fewer visitors than in summer. Please keep in mind that it is the peak time to visit Douro Valley's wineries, as it is harvest season. October is a budget-friendly month. The travel costs are between the high summer prices and the low winter rates. If you are looking for a great-value trip to Portugal, October is a smart time to go.
Main Portugal Tourist Destinations in October
Lisbon (Central Coast)
Avg. Temperature (°C): 16-23°C (61-73°F)
Typical Weather: Mild with occasional rain, pleasant overall with a few showers
What to Pack: Layers, light sweater, compact umbrella
Best For: City sightseeing, cultural exploration, honeymoon vacation
Elevador de Santa Justa
Must-Visit:
- Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and Monument to the Discoveries
- Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
- MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology)
- São Jorge Castle (Castelo de São Jorge)
Things to Do in October:
- Ride the historic tram 28 through Lisbon's ancient districts, including Graca, Alfama, Baixa, and Estrela.
- Enjoy a romantic autumn sunset from a "miradouro", which is generally located on the highest points of the hills and usually has space to sit and rest.
- Relax in a small bistro with traditional fado music on a cool night.
- Taste the famous pastéis de nata (Portuguese egg tarts), then you will know why it is so popular.
Porto (North Coast)
Avg. Temperature (°C): 14-21°C (57-70°F)
Typical Weather: Cool and rainy, more humid and overcast compared to the south
Best For: Wine tasting, family tour, photography
What to Pack: Waterproof jacket, umbrella, layers, closed shoes
Livraria Lello Bookstore
Must-Visit:
- Dom Luís I Bridge (Ponte de Dom Luís I)
- Clérigos Tower (Torre dos Clérigos)
- Porto Cathedral
- Palácio da Bolsa
Things to Do:
- Visit Vila Nova de Gaia and savor the port wine - a must in autumn!
- Take a river cruise on the Douro River, a peaceful way to learn more about Porto.
- Go to Jardim do Morro and appreciate the panoramic views of Porto and the impressive Luís I Bridge.
- Immerse yourself in Livraria Lello, one of Portugal's oldest bookstores, which is said to have inspired Hogwarts in Harry Potter. If you travel with your kid, he or she will love it the best.
Douro Valley (Inland North)
Avg. Temperature (°C): 13-22°C (55-72°F)
Typical Weather: Mild with scattered showers, partly cloudy to rainy
Best For: Winery visits, scenic views, autumn colors
What to Pack: Layered clothing, raincoat, sturdy shoes
Winery in Duoro Valley
Must-Visit:
- Pinhão
- Quinta do Seixo
- Peso da Régua
- São João da Pesqueira
Things to Do:
- Witness how locals have grape harvest and make wine, in a modern or traditional way.
- Stay at a wine estate to experience another style of Portugal.
- Take pictures of panoramic views at São Leonardo da Galafura viewpoint, with golden vineyards and autumn colors.
- Cruise, train ride, or car drive along the Douro River would be a wonderful experience for enjoying the picturesque view.
Useful Tips:
- If you want to attend the harvest events and stay at a wine estate or quinta, go to the Douro Valley in the first two weeks of October and book in advance.
Algarve (South)
Avg. Temperature (°C): 18-25°C (64-77°F)
Typical Weather: Mostly sunny and dry, warm and bright days with little rain
Best For: Beaches, outdoor relaxation, food trips
What to Pack: Light clothing, sunhat, light jacket at night
Must-Visit:
- Ponta da Piedade (Lagos)
- Benagil Cave
- Praia da Marinha
- Cape St. Vincent (Cabo de São Vicente)
Things to Do:
- Go see the autumn colors by hiking along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, one of Portugal's most scenic coastal routes.
- Enjoy the last cozy beach holiday of the year with mild weather on sun-kissed beaches like Praia do Barril or Praia do Camilo.
- Take a tuk tuk to explore the authentic Old Town of Faro. It is a unique way to discover this hidden gem.
- Visit local markets and savor some seasonal seafood, such as grilled sardines or octopus salad.
Useful Tips:
Though the temperature is not very low in October in this area, swimming in the morning and late afternoon is still not very recommended.
Azores (Atlantic Islands)
Avg. Temp: 17-23°C (63-73°F)
Weather: Rainy and humid, fast-changing skies
Best For: Eco-tourism, hot springs, volcano views
What to Pack: Quick-dry clothing, waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes
Must-Visit:
- Sete Cidades in São Miguel
- Lagoa do Fogo in São Miguel
- Pico Mountain on Pico Island
- Capelinhos Volcano on Faial Island
Things to Do:
- Test your luck and see how many dolphins and whales you can meet in São Miguel or Pico.
- Immerse yourself in the geothermal and fumarolic hot springs in Caldeira das Furnas, and taste Cozido das Furnas - a meat-and-vegetable stew slow-cooked in volcanic soil.
- Take photos of volcanic craters and coastal cliffs by choosing one of the 20 hiking trails in São Miguel.
- Pay a visit to a tea plantation to taste green and black teas made in a traditional way.
Madeira (Atlantic Island)
Avg. Temp: 19-25°C (66-77°F)
Typical Weather: Mild and partly cloudy, subtropical comfort with occasional drizzle
Best For: Nature walks, cliff views, flower gardens
What to Pack: Light layers, windbreaker, comfortable walking shoes.
Must-Visit:
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Pico do Arieiro
3D Fun Art Museum
Funchal Old Town
Things to Do:
- Challenge the hiking route from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo in the cooler October weather.
- Experience unforgettable rides with a cable car up and wicker toboggan back downhill in Monte.
- Set off on an interesting exploration in the peaceful Laurissilva (Laurel Forest), a forest of indigenous plants near Ribeiro Frio.
- Step onto the 589-meter-high skywalk at Cabo Girão, one of the highest cliffs in the world.
Recommended Portugal Tours in October
10-Day Portugal Food & Wine Tour: Porto, Douro Valley and More
Autumn is the best time to enjoy Portuguese food and wine. Juicy fruits, rich wines, and seasonal seafood are a must. This 10-day Portugal tour will take you on a memorable culinary Portugal journey.
5-Day Porto & Douro Valley Exploration
If you are short on time, consider exploring the highlights of Porto and Douro Valley at one time. From admiring the historic Clérigos Tower and Luís I Bridge to tasting wine among the Douro Valley's vineyards, you will enjoy a truly memorable side of Portugal.
Quick Question
What Our Clients Say
Explore the latest verified reviews of Odynovo's travel services on Tripadvisor, Google, Trustpilot, Product Review and more trusted platforms.