September is one of the best months to visit Lisbon, and you should go if you get the chance.

During September, Lisbon basks in the golden warmth of late summer, having shed the intense heat of July and August. The weather remains warm enough for a day at the beach, yet mild enough to wander the city’s hilly streets without the exhaustion that the peak summer months can bring.

September is the perfect blend of peak-season energy and post-summer comfort. Every attraction, restaurant, and tour is fully open, yet the city isn't as overwhelmingly crowded as it was in July and August. You'll find a vibrant atmosphere day and night, from the sun-drenched beaches of the coast to the party-filled alleyways of Bairro Alto.

This is the perfect month for exploring Lisbon, enjoying the beaches or taking a day trip to Sintra or Cascais, without the summertime crowds. Lisbon still will be busy with tourists but less so than during the summer months.

This guide explores why September is perfect for visiting Lisbon and how to make the most of your stay.

Rossio plaza in central Lisbon on a bright sunny day in September

September brings some of Lisbon's finest weather of the year, delivering consistently warm days with very little chance of rain. The unpredictable heat waves of July and August have given way to stable, pleasant conditions ideal for any activity.

Official statistics for Lisbon in September show a daytime high of 26°C (79°F) and a comfortable night-time minimum of 18°C (64°F). You can expect an average of just six days with any rainfall and a generous 8.5 hours of sunshine each day. The UV index remains moderately high at 7, so sun protection is still important.

While these are averages, you can anticipate the majority of days to be warm and bright. The evenings are particularly appealing, often bringing a gentle breeze from the Tejo estuary that cools the city without requiring heavy clothing.

In short, September offers near-perfect conditions for a comprehensive Portuguese experience.

September is an outstanding month to discover Lisbon and its surrounding region. Some of the highlights that you should not miss include:
• Alfama District: Get lost in the maze of narrow streets that make up Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood. The houses here practically touch each other across the lanes, and every few minutes you'll stumble upon a viewpoint that opens up incredible views over the city's terracotta rooftops down to the Tejo.
• São Jorge Castle: The castle sits at the top of Alfama hill and offers some of the best views in the city. While the castle itself has been heavily restored, the ramparts provide excellent panoramas, and the peacocks wandering the grounds add an unexpected touch.
• Belém District: This riverside area is where Portuguese explorers set off to discover new worlds. The Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery are the main sights, but don't leave without trying a pastel de nata at Pastéis de Belém - they've been making them here since 1837 using the original recipe.
• Feira da Ladra market: Portugal's best flea market happens twice a week on the cobblestones near the cathedral. You'll find everything from genuine antiques to complete junk, and half the fun is in the hunt for something interesting.
• Sunset boat tour: Taking a boat trip in the evening gives you a completely different perspective on the city. The boat tours head to the mouth of the Tejo to watch the sunset, passing under the 25 de Abril bridge and the Belém district, while the cooling breezes provide refreshing relief on hot, sultry days.
• Bairro Alto nightlife: This hilltop neighbourhood transforms completely after dark. You can catch traditional fado music in one of the small restaurants, hop between the many bars or head to Pink Street for serious partying. (Lisbon nightlife guide)
• Beaches: September's weather is still warm enough for proper beach days. Carcavelos and Costa da Caparica are easily reached by train, while Cascais offers a more traditional seaside.
• Riding Tram 28: This famous yellow tram rattles through the city's most interesting neighbourhoods, climbing impossibly steep hills and squeezing through streets that seem too narrow for it.
• Viewpoints: Lisbon has dozens of miradouros scattered across its hills. The one at Senhora do Monte is particularly peaceful and offers sweeping views across the city without the crowds you'll find at some of the others.

The Ponte 25 de Abril as seen from the Cristo Rei viewpoint

September's perfect blend of warm weather and calmer seas creates ideal conditions for outdoor adventures along Lisbon's spectacular coastline.

Kayaking the Sesimbra Coast: Take advantage of September's settled weather for a memorable day trip south to Sesimbra. Paddle along one of Portugal's most breathtaking stretches of coastline, where you'll discover hidden coves and the secluded, paradise-like beach of Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo. Kayak tour from Lisbon

Coasteering near Sesimbra: For the ultimate adrenaline rush, coasteering combines cliff scrambling, sea swimming, and exhilarating jumps from heights of up to 8 metres into the crystal-clear Atlantic waters. Coasteering by GetYourGuide

Surfing at Costa da Caparica: Just across the bridge from Lisbon, this expansive coastline remains Portugal's premier surfing destination. September delivers consistent swells with some of the warmest water temperatures (though still chilly!) creating excellent conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo beach

Lisbon in September is wonderful, and it represents one of the best months to visit the city.

The continuing warm weather sustains the city's energy from the peak summer months. People still flock to the beaches, outdoor dining venues operate at full capacity, and Lisbon's outdoor culture remains in full swing.

September marks the transition between peak and shoulder season, creating interesting dynamics in tourist numbers. While the city remains lively and attractions can still have queues, particularly at popular sites like São Jorge Castle or the Jerónimos Monastery, the overwhelming crowds of July and August have begun to thin.

The nightlife of Lisbon continues at summer intensity. Every evening, the bars and clubs of Bairro Alto and Pink Street fill with locals and visitors making the most of the warm weather. At weekends, the socialising spills onto the cobbled streets, creating the infectious atmosphere that makes Lisbon's nightlife so appealing.

The number 24 tram passing through Príncipe Real neighbourhood

September is a wonderful time to visit Lisbon, but it's important to book your accommodation early to secure the best prices. While it falls just outside peak season, demand for hotels and accommodation remains high as visitors seek to enjoy the city's late-summer appeal.

To find the perfect place to stay, use the map below to see the location of hotels and rental rooms in Lisbon. Adjust the dates to fit your trip, and the map will display current availability and prices:

Booking.com

September's excellent weather makes it an outstanding month for sightseeing, whether you're exploring Lisbon's diverse neighbourhoods on foot or venturing out on day trips to discover the surrounding region.

Here are some of the best day trips from Lisbon:

Sintra - This hillside town draws visitors with its collection of extraordinary palaces and romantic gardens scattered through wooded hills. The colourful Pena Palace and mysterious Quinta da Regaleira are the main attractions, along with the ruins of an old Moorish castle that offers excellent views. Our Sintra guide

Cascais - The most elegant seaside resort within easy reach of Lisbon, Cascais combines attractive beaches with grand 19th-century architecture. It has managed to keep its sophisticated character while remaining a popular destination for both day trips and longer stays. Our Cascais guide

Setúbal - For authentic Portuguese life, this working fishing port south of Lisbon offers excellent seafood restaurants and a genuine harbour atmosphere. The daily catch arrives each morning, and the restaurants here serve some of the freshest fish you'll find anywhere. Our Setubal guide

Évora - In the heart of the Alentejo region, this ancient city preserves layers of Portuguese history. You'll find Roman ruins, medieval streets, and Renaissance buildings, all surrounded by the rolling countryside that produces much of Portugal's wine and cork. Our Evora guide

Óbidos - This small medieval walled town has kept its historical character remarkably intact. You can walk the ancient ramparts and explore narrow cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses decorated with bright flowers. Our Obidos guide

Sesimbra - Originally a fishing village, Sesimbra has grown into a popular beach resort while keeping much of its original charm. It sits between excellent sandy beaches and the green hills of the Serra da Arrábida, making it appealing for both beach lovers and hikers. Sesimbra guide

Costa da Caparica - Portugal's most famous surfing destination stretches for miles along the Atlantic coast. The beaches here attract surfers from across Europe, but there's plenty of space for everyone, and the modern resort facilities are excellent. Costa da Caparica guide

Óbidos is a tradition Portuguese walled city

This six-day itinerary makes the most of September's excellent weather, combining Lisbon's cultural treasures with coastal adventures and regional discoveries. The settled conditions and longer days create perfect opportunities for both city exploration and seaside escapes.

Day 1: Baixa, Alfama, and Graça
Begin your Lisbon journey in Baixa, the elegant downtown district rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake. The grand Praça do Comércio opens like a magnificent gateway to the city, while nearby Rossio Square displays the refined Pombaline architecture that defines this area. Walk along the bustling Rua Augusta pedestrian street, take the ornate Elevador de Santa Justa for panoramic views, then sample ginja, Portugal's traditional cherry liqueur, at the historic A Ginjinha bar.

Spend your afternoon in Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, where narrow cobbled streets wind steeply uphill from the river towards the castle. Within this atmospheric maze, discover the imposing São Jorge Castle with its sweeping city views, visit the cathedral's fortress-like walls, and pause at the scenic Miradouro da Graça viewpoint. Complete your exploration aboard the famous Tram 28 as it rattles through these ancient quarters, then explore Graça's vibrant street art that transforms ordinary walls into colourful galleries.

Day 2: Sintra Day Trip
Sintra is the best day trip from Lisbon, with its collection of extraordinary palaces and romantic gardens scattered through the wooded hills of the Serra de Sintra. The town became a summer retreat for Portuguese royalty and wealthy families, who built increasingly elaborate residences that range from medieval castles to 19th-century fantasy palaces. September's settled weather makes it ideal for exploring these attractions and their extensive grounds.

Start at the Pena Palace, an extraordinary 19th-century creation that mixes architectural styles and bright colours in a way that shouldn't work but absolutely does. The palace sits high in the wooded hills, and the rooms inside are as elaborate as the exterior suggests, while the terraces provide excellent views across the surrounding countryside.

After lunch, head to Quinta da Regaleira, where the gardens are filled with grottoes, tunnels, and symbolic details that reveal new surprises as you explore. If you have time and energy, Sintra has several other options: the ruins of the old Moorish castle offer some of the best views in the area, the National Palace in the town centre has those distinctive twin chimneys and interesting royal history, or Monserrate Palace combines romantic gardens with unusual Moorish-inspired architecture.

Day 3: Cascais and the Coast
September's glorious weather makes this the ideal day for coastal exploration along Portugal's beautiful Atlantic shore. Take the scenic train to Cascais, the elegant seaside resort that gracefully combines Belle Époque grandeur with pristine sandy beaches. This former royal retreat maintains its sophisticated charm through tree-lined avenues, refined boutiques, and excellent seafood restaurants where you can dine with ocean views. The town's sheltered beaches offer golden sands and waters still warm from the summer months, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

Alternatively, head to the expansive beaches of Carcavelos or Costa da Caparica for a more energetic beach day. Carcavelos, easily accessible by train, offers a wide stretch of sand with excellent facilities and beach bars, popular with both locals and visitors. Costa da Caparica provides miles of Atlantic coastline with a lively surf culture, where consistent September swells attract boarders and the modern resort atmosphere buzzes with energy.

Day 4: Belém, Alcântara, and Príncipe Real
Head to the historic Belém district along the western banks of the Tejo, where Portugal's Age of Discoveries began in the 15th century. Start at the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, whose elaborate Manueline stonework celebrates the wealth of the spice trade. Walk to the iconic Belém Tower, the fortress that once guarded the river mouth, then visit the towering Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument honouring Portugal's great explorers. Don't miss the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém, where these beloved custard tarts have followed the same secret recipe since 1837.

Continue to Alcântara's creative LX Factory, where converted industrial buildings now house independent shops, art galleries, and trendy cafés. This vibrant cultural hub represents Lisbon's artistic revival and contemporary spirit. End your day in sophisticated Príncipe Real, renowned for excellent dining and upmarket shopping, where elegant tree-lined squares provide perfect settings for evening relaxation.

Day 5: Estrela, Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, and Parque das Nações
Start your day in Estrela, a quiet residential neighbourhood where locals go about their daily routines around the large domed basilica and its peaceful gardens. This area feels genuinely Portuguese, with traditional cafés and small shops that have served the community for decades. From here, make your way to bohemian Bairro Alto, taking the Elevador da Bica funicular that climbs the steep hillside. Don't miss the Igreja de São Roque, whose plain facade hides some of the most ornate baroque decoration you'll find in the city.

For lunch, head down to Cais do Sodré and the TimeOut Market, where dozens of food vendors gather under one large roof. You can sample everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, making it easy to please different tastes.

Spend your afternoon at Parque das Nações, the modern district built for the 1998 World Expo. The area feels completely different from historic Lisbon, with its glass buildings and wide waterfront promenades. The Lisbon Oceanarium here is genuinely impressive, housing marine life from around the world in thoughtfully designed exhibits that make for an engaging afternoon, whatever the weather.

Day 6: Évora or Setúbal Day Trip
Your final day offers two exceptional Portuguese experiences beyond the capital. Évora, the jewel of the Alentejo region, enchants visitors with its perfectly preserved Roman temple, mysterious bone chapel, and medieval streets that earned UNESCO World Heritage status. This ancient city reveals Portugal's layered history through Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and Renaissance palaces, all surrounded by rolling countryside dotted with cork oaks.

Alternatively, Setúbal provides genuine insights into traditional Portuguese maritime life. This working fishing port celebrates its seafaring heritage through exceptional restaurants serving the day's fresh catch, while its historic centre and lively daily market maintain authentic local character. The nearby Arrábida Natural Park offers magnificent coastal scenery and pristine beaches for those seeking a final taste of Portugal's natural beauty.

Packing for Lisbon in September means preparing for warm, pleasant days while keeping evening comfort in mind. Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen - t-shirts, shorts, summer dresses, and comfortable skirts for exploring the sun-warmed streets. Don't forget swimwear for beach trips to Cascais or Costa da Caparica, plus comfortable walking shoes that can handle the city's famous hills and cobblestone paths.

The September sun still demands protection: pack a wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. However, evening breezes can bring cooler temperatures, so include a light jacket or cardigan for outdoor dining and late-night strolls. Pack smart-casual outfits for Lisbon's vibrant but relaxed dining and nightlife scene.

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