Lisbon in November: Weather, What to Pack and Do

Lisbon sees a drop in temperatures in November, but you can enjoy a range of events with fewer tourists and affordable accommodation prices.

The weather in November moves from warm autumn to rainy days later in the month, leading to a cold winter.

So, you can enjoy a mix of sunny days with some cloudy days. But do not let it stop you from visiting this beautiful city.

Explore the weather, what to pack, and things to do here.

How is The Weather in Lisbon in November?

In November, Lisbon experiences cool temperatures during the nights and mornings, while the afternoons are usually pleasant.

Daytime high temperatures range from mid to upper 60°F (19°C—20°C) early in the month and drop to low 60°F (16°C) towards the end.

Occasionally, there may be some warmer afternoons early in the month with temperatures reaching up to mid-70°F (23°C). The highest recorded temperature in November in Lisbon is 78.1°F (25.6°C).

The low temperatures during late nights and early mornings tend to be chilly, averaging around mid-50°F (13°C) early in the month and dropping to near 50°F (10°C-11°C) by the end of the month.

Some mornings, especially later in the month, can be colder, with temperatures dipping down to the mid-40°F (6°C -7°C). The record low temperature recorded during November in Lisbon is 39.0°F (3.9°C). 

Lisbon experiences up to 120mm of rainfall in November, with 5.5 hours of daily sunshine. Yet, these rains often come and go quickly, leaving behind a refreshed ambiance.

10 Things to Do in Lisbon

Lisbon is a dynamic city with comfortable weather conditions for day trips and much more. Here are some things you can do while visiting this enjoyable city.

Pastéis de Nata:

Arguably, Lisbon’s most famous pastry, the Pastéis de Nata, is a creamy custard tart encased in layers of flaky pastry, dusted with cinnamon or powdered sugar.

The recipe originated from the Jerónimos Monastery in Belém and remains a closely guarded secret. Only a handful of master bakers possess the knowledge to replicate its unparalleled taste.

Sampling a freshly baked Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon is a fun experience.

Hot Tip🔥: Browse some of the best pasteis de nata places to enjoy this tasty Portuguese custard tart.

Christmas Markets

November sets the stage for Lisbon’s enchanting transformation into a festive wonderland.

While Christmas markets begin to sprout across the city, they are less crowded than their December counterparts, allowing for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Discover unique handicrafts, savor seasonal treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere as Lisbon adorns itself with twinkling lights and yuletide charm.

In essence, November casts a spell on Lisbon, weaving together a tapestry of experiences that cater to varied interests and passions.

Whether the allure of cultural festivities draws you, the promise of pleasant weather, or the appeal of a tranquil escape, Lisbon awaits with open arms and a treasure trove of memories waiting to be crafted.

Travesseiros de Sintra

Venture just beyond Lisbon to the picturesque town of Sintra, and you’ll discover Travesseiros, a puff pastry delight filled with almond cream.

Legend has it that these pastries were created by nuns using leftover convent sweets, transforming simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

The delicate layers of flaky pastry, coupled with the sweet almond filling, offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that captivate the senses.

Queijadas de Sintra

Also from Sintra, Queijadas are compact pastries made from cheese, sugar, and eggs. They have a dense yet irresistibly creamy consistency.

These rustic treats encapsulate the essence of Portuguese countryside desserts, evoking a sense of nostalgia with every bite.

Their humble appearance belies a depth of flavor that resonates with authenticity and tradition.

Here, you can explore the ancient streets of this fairytale town.

Bolo Rei

A festive favorite, Bolo Rei (King’s Cake), adorned with crystallized fruits and nuts and symbolizing the gifts offered to baby Jesus by the Three Kings, is a staple during the Christmas season.

Beneath its decorative exterior lies a soft, brioche-like dough studded with candied fruits and nuts, offering a delightful contrast of textures and a symphony of flavors.

Conventual Sweets

Lisbon’s sweetscape is also dotted with Conventional sweets and confections crafted by nuns using age-old recipes passed down through generations.

These include intricate delights like Barriga de Freira (Nun’s Belly), a rich, egg-based sweet, and Pudim Abade de Priscos, a sumptuous pudding infused with port wine and garnished with crisp caramelized strips.

Communal Chestnut Roasting

As November graces Lisbon with its gentle embrace, one cannot help but be drawn to the enticing aroma wafting through the air—a symphony of smoky, earthy notes beckoning you closer.

This olfactory delight emanates from the ubiquitous street stalls scattered across Lisbon, where roasted chestnuts, known locally as “castanhas assadas,” take center stage during this enchanting month.

The Tradition

Roasting chestnuts is more than just a culinary endeavor; it’s a cherished tradition that heralds the arrival of autumn. Wander through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, and you’ll encounter street vendors skillfully roasting chestnuts over open flames, their hands deftly turning the nuts to ensure an even char and perfect flavor.

The Experience

Buying a paper cone filled with freshly roasted chestnuts is a tasty experience and a sensory journey.

Feel the warmth emanating from the freshly roasted nuts as you grasp them, their outer shells charred to perfection, promising a tender, flavorful interior.

Peeling open the charred shell to reveal the nut within becomes a ritual, a moment of anticipation culminating in the sweet, nutty flavor that dances on your palate.

Pairing and Enjoyment

In Lisbon’s November chill, roasted chestnuts are often paired with a cup of “jeropiga,” a sweet, fortified wine that beautifully complements the nutty flavors.

The warm, smoky chestnuts’ contrast with the velvety richness of the wine creates a harmonious balance, elevating the experience to new heights of culinary delight.

Cultural Significance

Beyond the culinary realm, roasted chestnuts hold cultural significance, embodying a sense of community and shared celebration.

It’s not uncommon to see locals gathered around these street stalls, engaging in lively conversations and partaking in this seasonal delight, forging connections and creating lasting memories against the backdrop of Lisbon’s timeless charm.

The Seventh Art at The Lisbon and Estoril Film Festival

The Lisbon and Estoril Film Festival is an excellent event if you are a movie lover.

It takes place in Estoril, just a 20-minute drive from Lisbon, and showcases a variety of audiovisual creations, including fiction, documentaries, and animation.

The festival usually takes place in November, starting from the second week of the month, but it’s always a good idea to check the official website to confirm the dates of each edition. 

Aside from the film screenings, the festival hosts various events, such as conferences and concerts. Different tickets can be purchased starting from €5, depending on the event you want to attend.

Visit The Best Museum 

It’s worth noting that visiting Lisbon in November has its perks, such as a more relaxed and enjoyable city experience.

Unlike the summer months, there are fewer crowds, which means shorter queues and waiting times at popular attractions. It presents an excellent opportunity to explore the city’s museums without feeling overwhelmed.

Here are some of the museums I recommend checking out.

• Explore the history of the legendary soccer team with a guided tour of the Benfica Museum.
• Discover an impressive collection of ancient art pieces from the Greco-Roman era, the Middle East, the Far East, and over 10,000 Portuguese works of art at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum in Lisbon.
• Unveil the complete collection of priceless royal pieces and jewelry at the Royal Treasure Museum in Lisbon.
• At the Museum of the Orient in Lisbon, you can explore over 1,400 Asian art pieces from Portugal’s historical colonial relations.
• Visit the National Museum of Archeology in Lisbon, housed in the beautiful Jerónimos Monastery, to admire both the building and the stunning collection of historical artifacts.
• Don’t miss out on the Tile Museum, which is dedicated to one of the most characteristic and universal Portuguese products: the tile.

Alternatively, also check out some of these free museums you can visit in Lisbon.

Web Summit Lisbon

It is an annual event that attracts tens of thousands of people, holds significant relevance, and is worth attending.

Typically held in the first week of November in Lisbon, the event draws a diverse crowd, including prominent investors, tech giants, startups, and digital entrepreneurs from over 150 countries.

Before planning a visit, it is advisable to check the official website for the exact dates. The event encompasses an extensive program that includes a variety of offerings.

• Thematic congresses.
• Hundreds of exhibiting companies.
• Dozens of speakers.

The event in Lisbon is an excellent opportunity to learn about new technologies and prospects. It is considered one of the most important European events in the sector and takes place at the Parque das Nações.

Tickets cost €9. If you’re short on time to explore Lisbon’s charms, consider taking one of the many tourist buses to see the city quickly.

Why Visit Lisbon in November

November in Lisbob is a hidden gem in the travel calendar that beckons with a blend of seasonal allure and cultural richness.

If you’re contemplating a European getaway, I can give you many reasons to visit Lisbon in November.

It is the perfect time to explore the cobbled streets and tourist attractions without the summer crowds. 

Hot Tip🔥: If it rains a lot on a specific day, you can also enjoy an indoor activity to have an excellent time. 

1. Perfect Weather

Lisbon graces November with a climate that’s nothing short of delightful. Bid farewell to the sweltering heat as temperatures hover between a comfortable 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Perfect weather for a 6-day Lisbon trip! 😏

The air turns crisp, invigorating your senses and offering the ideal backdrop for strolls along the Tagus River or alfresco dining in the city’s charming squares.

With mild evenings perfect for romantic walks, Lisbon’s November weather crafts an idyllic setting for memorable experiences.

Hence, November in Lisbon is a perfect time to explore the city.

2. November in Lisbon: Fewer Tourists

One of the most enticing aspects of visiting Lisbon in November is the noticeable decrease in tourist crowds, making it a nice time with less crowd density. 

As peak tourist season wanes, iconic attractions such as the Belém Tower or Jerónimos Monastery become more accessible, allowing for a more intimate and unhurried exploration.

Revel in the luxury of shorter queues and a serene ambiance that lets you connect more deeply with the city’s heritage and soul.

3. Cheaper Accommodation Prices

November has a silver lining for the budget-conscious traveler. With the decrease in tourist numbers, accommodation rates often become more wallet-friendly, offering excellent value for premium stays.

Whether you fancy a boutique hotel overlooking the city’s rooftops or a cozy guesthouse in a historic neighborhood, you’ll likely find enticing deals that enhance your Lisbon experience without breaking the bank.

4. Magusto Celebrations

Immerse yourself in Lisbon’s vibrant cultural tapestry by celebrating Magusto, a traditional festival marking the chestnut harvest.

Join locals in jubilant gatherings where the aroma of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and bonfires illuminate the night sky.

This age-old tradition offers a fascinating glimpse into Portuguese folklore, fostering a sense of community and shared joy that’s truly infectious.

One thing is for sure: it is an exceptional event you cannot miss.

Hot Tip🔥: If you plan to spend time in Lisbon over Christmas, learn everything about the weather and what you can expect in December here.

Lisbon Holidays in November

All Saints’ Day – November 1st

This solemn day honors all saints and is marked by special church services and visits to cemeteries to pay respects to departed loved ones.

In Lisbon, you’ll observe families gathering at graveyards, adorning tombs with flowers, particularly chrysanthemums, symbolizing grief and remembrance.

It’s a day that underscores the deep-rooted Catholic traditions and the importance of honoring those who have passed on.

It also commemorates the big 1755 Lisbon Earthquake. 

Saint Martin’s Day  – November 11th:

Celebrated across Portugal with zest and enthusiasm, Saint Martin’s Day marks the end of the agricultural year and the maturation of wine. It is a must-visit attraction.

Tradition dictates that the season’s new wine be tasted, often accompanied by roasted chestnuts (castanhas) and jeropiga, a sweet liquor.

In Lisbon, you’ll find markets brimming with these seasonal delights and locals reveling in the festive atmosphere, embodying the spirit of gratitude and communal joy.

Each of these public holidays in November offers a glimpse into Lisbon’s rich tapestry of traditions, history, and cultural nuances.

What to Pack For November in Lisbon

Opt for versatile pieces you can layer to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day. A light jacket, sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and waterproof jackets or umbrellas are must-haves.

Lisbon’s hilly terrain calls for comfortable walking shoes. Pack a pair of sturdy yet comfortable shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and navigating the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

A stylish scarf adds a chic touch to your outfit and provides extra warmth during cooler moments. Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunglasses to shield against the sun’s glare and unpredictable showers.

Consider packing a smart-casual outfit for evenings out or dining at upscale restaurants. Lisbon’s vibrant dining scene offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in culinary delights, so a slightly dressier ensemble prepares you for any dining occasion.

Carry a compact daypack with essentials like a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and a city map or guidebook. It’s also handy for storing souvenirs collected during your explorations.

Wrap-Up: Lisbon in November

With its crisp air and golden hues, November in Lisbon offers a unique lens through which to explore the city, revealing facets often overshadowed by the bustling tourist seasons.

From the aromatic embrace of roasted chestnuts to the rhythmic dance of raindrops on cobblestone streets, Lisbon in November invites connection.

The fewer crowds lend a serene ambiance, allowing for a deeper immersion into the city’s soul, where every alleyway whispers tales of history, art, and untold secrets.

Whether you’ve reveled in the joyous celebrations of Magusto, sampled the iconic Pastéis de Nata, or lost yourself in contemplation amidst Lisbon’s timeless vistas.

November weaves memories that linger like the soft notes of a Fado song.

Frequently Asked Questions