Fall in Portugal: Most Beautiful Places
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Portugal is one of the best European countries to visit in the fall! It’s a cost-efficient time of year to travel as airfares drop, summer holidays are over and most cities have fewer tourists at the end of August.
Travelers can enjoy the last warm days of the year in Portugal, with plenty to do both indoors and outdoors. From exploring the fiery fall foliage to the best weekend getaways in Europe, there are so many places to explore in Portugal in Fall.
What months are Fall in Portugal?
Autumn or fall months are the transitional periods from summer to winter. Typically they are the months of September, October, and November.
Most Beautiful Places in Portugal in Fall
Looking for the best fall vacations in Portugal? You are in the right spot…
Algrave
One of the most astounding places to visit in fall for sun and beaches is the breathtaking Algarve Coast in southern Portugal. It’s the perfect time of the year to go as it’s still hot enough to go to the beach, go scuba diving, and learn how to surf. This is also a perfect time to explore the charming Algarve towns that are spread along the coast as the intense summer heat is wearing off.
Make sure you at least visit Lagos and Albufeira, but if you have more time, head to the east and base yourself in Tavira or Olhao for an authentic fishing town feel. Their perfect placement right off the Ria Formosa Natural Park is also worth the trip. Visit some of the most stunning beaches you’ve ever seen in the park and take a boat trip to the protected islands.
In Albufeira, you can party all night and chill on the beach all day, and though it’s fewer tourists than in summer, the little town still boasts life. Lagos and Sagres are perfect if you plan on surfing, but they’re also great places to baser yourself for exploring the best cliff walks there are in the country. In Lagos, you should stay at the Sensation Guesthouse. The rooms are nice and clean, and the views are spectacular.
By Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers
Braga
Braga is one of the oldest cities in Portugal and home to one of the world’s oldest catholic cities. The former Roman city of Bracara Augusta is known for its churches, beaches, festivals, and local foodie culture.
See decorative arts and gardens at the Biscainhos Palace Gardens and explore one of the most romantic Portugal fall destinations, The Santa Bárbara Garden in Braga. This 17th-century garden is located near the former Archbishop’s Palace and features lush gardens and extraordinary topiaries. See the Nogueira da Silva Museum before going on a short drive to the Citânia de Briteiros is an impressive archaeological site from the Iron Age.
Lisbon
Lisbon is one of the best Portugal Fall destinations! This vibrant capital city of Portugal is known for its lively culture, amazing food, and spectacular views. There are many things to do in Lisbon, to learn about the cities fascinating history, start by visiting the Castle of São Jorge – dedicated to Saint George, the patron Saint of England. Museu Gulbenkian houses the art and historic artifacts of One of the 20th century’s great philanthropists, Armenian Calouste Gulbenkian.
A visit to the Belem Tower is a Must! Built using limestone in the 16th century, it was originally a fort created to protect Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon from incoming raids along the Tagus River.
Porto
Porto is one of the most beautiful cities in Portugal and a must-see for anybody visiting the country. The famous Portuguese port wine is made in the nearby Duoro valley, which is located close to Porto. Wine tastings and tours of hidden wine cellars are available in the Vila Nova de Gaia neighborhood which is a must-see.
Porto is known for its stunning architecture and historic sites. There is so much to see and do in this gorgeous place that you should plan on spending at least a week, if not longer, here. See the famed blue cathedrals, which are tiled with the azulejos, intricate blue tiles that have made Porto famous. You must, of course, see the Dom Luis II bridge, which connects Porto’s old town with Vila Nova de Gaia. This two-level bridge is a major tourist attraction and a great photo subject.
The cable car (€6) provides vouchers for free port wine tastings, which is the best way to get to the highest level. You’ll reach the top of the bridge after a short ride, where the views are spectacular. You should eat dinner by the river in the evenings and take in the bustling scene as the boats pass by. The weather in Porto is still moderate in the fall, and there are significantly fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to visit.
By Victoria of Guide Your Travel
