November might not be the first month that comes to mind when planning a trip to Portugal, but it has plenty to offer. It’s the season of roasted chestnuts, new wine and comforting food. You start seeing Christmas lights and fairs and the landscapes go from red, orange and brown to white.
From exploring historic towns and enjoying local celebrations, there’s still plenty to see and do across the country.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a cultural experience or simply an excuse to enjoy the season, here’s your guide to making the most of November in Portugal!
Monthly Calendar
Commemorative Dates
1 November | All Saints’ Day (Dia de Todos os Santos)
A national public holiday in Portugal, traditionally associated with remembering loved ones and visiting cemeteries. It is also connected to the traditional Pão por Deus, a custom in which children go from door to door asking for treats, particularly in some regions of the country.
11 November | St. Martin’s Day (Dia de São Martinho)
One of Portugal’s favourite autumn traditions! Celebrated with magustos, gatherings where people roast chestnuts over an open fire, enjoy new wine and share good food with family and friends. Remember the popular saying: “No dia de São Martinho, vai à adega e prova o vinho!”
Cultural Events
Chocolate Fair
6 to 8 November | Grândola
A sweet weekend dedicated to chocolate! Discover different chocolate creations, enjoy sweet treats and explore the local gastronomy. A great plan for anyone with a sweet tooth.
National Horse Fair
6 to 15 November | Golegã
One of Portugal’s most iconic traditional events, the National Horse Fair brings together horse breeders, riders and visitors from around the world. The programme includes equestrian competitions, demonstrations and activities celebrating the Lusitano horse and Portuguese equestrian culture.
São Martinho Fair
6 to 15 November | Portimão
A traditional fair with a long history, bringing together local products, food stalls, crafts and entertainment. Expect roasted chestnuts, farturas, pão com chouriço and plenty of seasonal treats.
LEFFEST | Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival
6 to 15 November | Lisbon & Sintra
Film lovers can look forward to another edition of LEFFEST, bringing together international cinema, special screenings and conversations with filmmakers and other guests. A great opportunity to discover films beyond the usual cinema programme.
Web Summit
9 to 12 November | Lisbon
One of the world’s leading technology conferences returns to Lisbon, bringing together entrepreneurs, startups, investors and industry leaders. Expect talks, networking opportunities and discussions about the future of technology and innovation.
Vine & Wine Festival
11 to 15 November | Borba
A celebration of the region’s wine heritage and local traditions. Discover wines from the Borba area, explore regional products and enjoy the atmosphere of one of Alentejo’s best known wine producing regions.
Alkantara Festival
13 to 29 November | Lisbon
Dedicated to contemporary performing arts, Alkantara brings together artists from Portugal and abroad through an international programme of theatre, dance and other artistic performances. A great opportunity to discover new creative perspectives.
Festa do Castanheiro – Chestnut Fair
14 to 15 November | Marvão
A celebration of one of the region’s most important autumn products. The festival brings together local producers, traditional food, roasted chestnuts, regional sweets and entertainment, all set against the beautiful backdrop of Marvão’s historic village.
Míscaros – Mushroom Festival
18 to 22 November | Alcaide, Fundão
A festival dedicated to wild mushrooms and the gastronomy of the region. Discover local recipes, traditional dishes, nature activities and the flavours of Beira Baixa in a celebration that brings together food, local traditions and the surrounding countryside.
International Conventual Sweets & Liqueurs Fair
19 to 22 November | Alcobaça
A celebration of Portugal’s rich conventual pastry tradition, hosted in the impressive surroundings of Alcobaça Monastery. Discover traditional sweets made with egg yolks, sugar and almonds, alongside regional liqueurs and recipes with centuries of history.
Lisboa Games Week
19 to 22 November | Lisbon
Portugal’s biggest video game event brings together gaming enthusiasts, developers and industry professionals. Expect gaming experiences, esports competitions, new releases and activities dedicated to the world of gaming.
Monthly Suggestions
November is all about embracing the slower pace of autumn and enjoying the cozy, colder atmosphere. Here are a few ideas to make the most of the season:
November Getaways
Lousã | Schist Villages & Mountain Scenery
Surrounded by mountains and forests, Lousã is an excellent choice for a weekend away from the city. The region is known for its traditional schist villages, winding roads and natural landscapes. November brings a quieter atmosphere, making it a good time to discover its rural side.
Must visit spots:
- Aldeias do Xisto da Lousã: Explore traditional villages such as Talasnal and Cerdeira.
- Lousã Castle: A medieval castle surrounded by woodland.
- Nossa Senhora da Piedade Sanctuary: A beautiful complex of chapels beside natural pools.
- Trevim: The highest point of the Serra da Lousã, offering impressive views.
- Cerdeira Home for Creativity: Discover an artistic community dedicated to creativity and traditional craftsmanship.
Mértola | A Journey Through Different Cultures
Located in the Guadiana Valley, Mértola is a small historic town with a fascinating multicultural past. Its Roman, Islamic and medieval influences can be seen throughout its streets and architecture. It is also a great starting point for discovering the landscapes and wildlife of the surrounding natural park.
Must visit spots:
- Mértola Castle: Explore the medieval fortress overlooking the town.
- Islamic Museum: Discover one of Portugal’s most important collections of Islamic archaeological heritage.
- Mértola Mosque: A former mosque transformed into a church, preserving several elements of its original architecture.
- Guadiana River: Enjoy the views and explore the riverside area.
- Vale do Guadiana Natural Park: Discover the region’s unique landscapes and biodiversity.
Vila Real | Palaces, Gardens & Douro Landscapes
Set in the north of Portugal, Vila Real combines elegant architecture, historic estates and beautiful natural surroundings. It is a good destination for anyone who enjoys discovering lesser known cities and exploring the countryside.
Must visit spots:
- Casa de Mateus: A remarkable Baroque manor house surrounded by formal gardens and vineyards.
- Historic Centre: Wander through the city’s traditional streets and squares.
- Capela Nova: An impressive church with a richly decorated façade.
- Parque Natural do Alvão: Discover waterfalls, mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
- Catedral de Vila Real: Explore the former Dominican convent, now the city’s cathedral.
Sortelha | A Medieval Village Frozen in Time
One of Portugal’s best preserved historic villages, Sortelha is a beautiful destination for a quiet November getaway. Surrounded by granite landscapes and enclosed by medieval walls, the village feels like stepping back in time. Its narrow streets, stone houses and impressive castle make it a particularly interesting place to explore.
Must visit spots:
- Sortelha Castle: Climb to the medieval fortress and enjoy panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
- Historic Village Centre: Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and discover the traditional granite houses.
- Porta da Vila: Enter the village through its impressive medieval gateway.
- Pelourinho: Admire the historic stone pillory in the village square.
- Cabeça da Velha: Discover one of the area’s most distinctive granite rock formations.
Take your time exploring the village, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stop at a local restaurant to try some traditional flavors from the Beira Interior region.
November Activities
Discover Portugal’s Olive Oil Tradition
November is closely connected to the olive harvest in many parts of Portugal. Visit an olive grove or a traditional olive oil mill to learn how olives are collected and transformed into one of the country’s most important products. Some producers also offer tastings where you can discover the differences between olive oil varieties.
Where to try:
- Moura: Explore one of Portugal’s most important olive oil producing regions.
- Mirandela: Discover the olive growing traditions of Trás os Montes.
- Reguengos de Monsaraz: Combine olive oil experiences with visits to local producers and vineyards.
Try a Traditional Pottery Workshop
Portugal has a rich tradition of ceramics and pottery, with techniques and designs that vary from region to region. November is a good excuse to try something creative indoors, learn about local craftsmanship and make something with your own hands.
Where to try:
- Caldas da Rainha: Known for its distinctive ceramic tradition.
- Barcelos: Discover traditional pottery and colourful regional designs.
- Redondo: Explore the Alentejo’s traditional clay craftsmanship.
Go Mushroom Foraging
Autumn is mushroom season in Portugal and November can be a great time to discover the country’s wild fungi. Join a guided foraging experience to learn how to identify different species, understand their role in local ecosystems and discover how they are used in Portuguese cooking. Never collect or eat wild mushrooms without expert guidance.
Where to try:
- Serra da Gardunha: Explore the woodland areas around Fundão.
- Montesinho Natural Park: Discover the forests and rural landscapes of Trás os Montes.
- Serra do Açor: A beautiful area for guided nature experiences.
Go Chestnut Picking & Enjoy a Magusto
Chestnuts are one of the most iconic symbols of Portuguese autumn. Visit a local fair or join a traditional magusto to experience the season like a local.
Suggestions:
- Golegã
- Portimão
- Trancoso
- The villages around Serra da Estrela
Whether you prefer to grab a jacket or a blanket, you can make the most of this November!
Relocating to Portugal has never been easier.
