Discovering Lisbon in September: What to Do, Where to Go, and Vegan Delights
September is one of the best times to visit Lisbon, Portugal. The summer crowds have thinned, but the weather remains warm and inviting. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and modern charm make it a delightful destination. Early September will have many sunny days and warm daytime temperatures while late September may experience a couple of rainy days, but is still the best time of year to visit Lisbon. Here’s your guide to making the most of Lisbon in September, including special festivals, fun things to do, and where to find the best vegan food.
What to Do – Best Places to Visit in Lisbon
1. Explore Alfama
Start your adventure in Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, soak in the Moorish influences, and visit the impressive São Jorge Castle. The views from the castle’s ramparts are breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the city and the Tagus River.
2. Visit the different viewpoints around the city
No trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting at least one or two viewpoints around the city. Most of the viewpoints have drink and snack quiosques for affordable beverages during your visit. This is one of my favorite things to do in Lisbon, especially in September when the weather is cooler.
3. Visit Belém
Head to Belém to explore the Jerónimos Monastery, a stunning example of Manueline architecture. Don’t miss the nearby Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Both landmarks reflect Portugal’s Age of Discovery and are must-see historical treasures.
4. Enjoy the Waterfront
Stroll along the Tagus River waterfront, particularly around the Cais do Sodré and Terreiro do Paço areas. The riverside promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk, and the Praça do Comércio square is a beautiful place to relax and take in the city’s energy.
5. Discover LX Factory
For a taste of Lisbon’s contemporary scene, visit LX Factory. This hip, regenerated industrial complex is now home to trendy shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options. It’s a hub for creativity and innovation, offering a different perspective on the city.
Where to Go – Lisbon in September
1. Elevador de Santa Justa
This neo-Gothic lift, designed by a student of Gustave Eiffel, connects the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Carmo Square. The observation deck offers spectacular views of the city and is a great spot for photos.
2. Walk on Rua Augusta from Praça do Comercio to Avenida Liberdade
This walk is busy, but September is the perfect time to walk this famous street with fewer crowds. You can start at Praça do Comercio and walk towards Rossio square and then finish at one of the beverage quiosques on Avenida da Liberdade.
3. Fado in Chiado
Experience the soul of Portugal by attending a Fado performance. Fado in Chiado offers traditional music shows that will give you a deep appreciation for this hauntingly beautiful genre. Just around the corner from Chiado is Bairro Alto where you can find lively bars.
4. Day Trip to Sintra
Just a short train ride from Lisbon, the fairy-tale town of Sintra is a must-visit. Explore the colorful Pena Palace, the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira, and the majestic Moorish Castle. The lush landscapes and historic architecture make for an enchanting day trip.
Where to Eat the Best Vegan Food – Lisbon in September
Lisbon’s vegan food scene is thriving, with numerous options that cater to plant-based diets. Here are some top spots to enjoy delicious vegan cuisine:
1. 26 Vegan Food Project
Located in the heart of the city, Ao 26 offers a diverse menu with creative vegan dishes. From hearty burgers to innovative takes on traditional Portuguese cuisine, this restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists.
2. The Green Affair
The Green Affair, with locations in Saldanha and Chiado, provides an elegant dining experience with a completely vegan menu. Their dishes are beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect spot for a special meal. Hot tip: If you have the Fork app, you can usually find 30% discounts if you make a reservation through this app.
3. Organi Chiado
For a more casual vibe, head to Organi Chiado. This cozy café offers a variety of healthy vegan bowls, salads, and smoothies. It’s an ideal place for a nutritious breakfast or lunch. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Lisbon.
4. Jardim das Cerejas
Jardim das Cerejas is a vegan buffet restaurant. The serene garden setting adds to the charm, making it a lovely place to enjoy a peaceful meal. Their buffet is particularly popular, offering a wide range of delicious choices.
5. Veganapati
Veganapati is on the same street as Scoop n Dough and a great location by Rossio Square. One of my favorite dishes is the vegan tikka masala. The ambiance is chic and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed evening out.
Here are some of the notable events that happen in September in Lisbon:
Queer Lisboa – Lisbon Gay and Lesbian Film Festival
This is one of the most significant LGBT film festivals in Europe, showcasing a diverse range of films that highlight LGBTQ+ issues and stories. The festival includes film screenings, discussions, and parties, celebrating diversity and inclusion. You can also see various short films.
MOTELx – Lisbon International Horror Film Festival
MOTELx is a must-attend event for horror movie enthusiasts. This festival features screenings of horror films from around the world, including premieres, retrospectives, and special guest appearances. It’s a thrilling experience for fans of the genre.
Experimenta Design – Lisbon Biennale
Although it occurs every two years, when it does, the Experimenta Design Biennale is a significant event in Lisbon’s design and architecture calendar. It features exhibitions, talks, and workshops focusing on contemporary design and innovation.
More Festivals in the Outskirts of Lisbon
Festas do Mar (Sea Festival)
Taking place in the nearby coastal town of Cascais, the Sea Festival celebrates the maritime culture of the region. It features concerts, traditional processions, and fireworks. It’s a short trip from Lisbon and offers a festive seaside experience. This event takes place the first days in September.
Bluegrass Festival in Trafaria
This event happens over 3 days in the second week of September in Trafaria (a short ferry ride from Belem in Lisbon). This is a unique opportunity to see international Bluegrass bands. I went last year and it was a good time!
Casa da America Latina – Market and Fair (September 6, 7, 8 in Estoril)
This event is one of my favorite events of the year in the Lisbon area. This takes place in Estoril, walking distance from the Casino. It’s a celebration of all things Latin America with live music and dance performances, food, a market, and a kids’ area. If you visit in September, I highly recommend you go to this super fun event.
These events, combined with Lisbon’s mild September weather and vibrant atmosphere, make it an exciting time to visit the city.
Weather in Lisbon in September
September is a wonderful time to visit Lisbon, as the weather is generally warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Here’s what you can typically expect in terms of weather in Lisbon during September:
Temperature
- Daytime Highs: Average temperature ranges from 25°C to 28°C (77°F to 82°F). It can sometimes get warmer, but extreme heat is rare in September. Maximum temperatures are around 80 F.
- Nighttime Lows: Nighttime temperatures are usually mild, ranging from 16°C to 19°C (61°F to 66°F). It’s comfortable enough for evening strolls and outdoor dining without needing heavy layers.
Sunshine
- Sunshine Hours: Lisbon enjoys plenty of sunshine in September, with an average of 9 to 10 hours of sunshine per day. This makes it a great month for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the city’s sights.
- Daylight: The days start to get shorter as autumn approaches, but you’ll still have plenty of daylight, with around 12 to 13 hours of daylight each day.
Rainfall
- Rain: September is generally dry, with occasional light showers. The city typically sees about 30 to 40 mm of rainfall during the month, spread over a few days. It’s a good idea to have an umbrella or light rain jacket just in case, but rain is usually not a major concern.
Humidity
- Humidity: The humidity levels in Lisbon in September are relatively moderate, making the warm temperatures feel quite comfortable. It’s not as humid as the peak summer months, which adds to the overall pleasantness of the weather.
Sea Temperature
- Swimming: If you plan to hit the beaches, the sea temperatures in September is inviting, averaging around 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F). It’s warm enough for swimming and other water activities. You can visit Lisbon’s beaches and nearby resort towns to swim in the Atlantic ocean.
Overall, September in Lisbon offers ideal weather conditions for exploring the city, enjoying the beaches, and experiencing the outdoor attractions without the intensity of hot summers or the chill of autumn. September is a great time to visit Lisbon as it’s not the high tourist season so there are fewer tourists, but the tourist attractions are still open.
Why is September the best month to visit Lisbon?
September is the best time to visit Lisbon, Portugal, because it combines warm, pleasant weather with fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. The city’s vibrant cultural scene comes alive with festivals and events, while the markets brim with fresh, seasonal produce. With less crowded attractions and beautiful early autumn scenery, you can fully immerse yourself in Lisbon’s historic charm and modern vibrancy, making it an ideal month for exploration and adventure. Not only that, it’s the perfect time for the budget traveler as accommodation prices are lower than during the peak season of late spring and the summer season. But the weather is much more pleasant than during the winter months.
Where to Stay in Lisbon
- 3 bedroom comfy apartment in the city center
- Awesome location + great price
- Comfy + close to metro and city center
- Luxury + great location and price
- Amazing location + sustainable loft
- Super budget friendly + nice hostel
Where to Eat in Lisbon
READ MY VEGAN GUIDE TO LISBON FOR ALL THE BEST PLACES TO EAT
Fun Paid Activities in Lisbon
- Lisbon 3-Hour Tuk Tuk Tour – a great way to see the entire city
- Urban Revolution Visit – if you love street art, then you will love this exhibit. I went recently and greatly enjoyed it.
- Lisbon Card – one of the best things you can buy if you plan on using public transportation and visiting museums!
- Lisbon History, Stories and More Walking Tour – perfect way to learn more in-depth info about Lisbon
- Lisbon Sunset Boat Tour with DJ – see the gorgeous holiday lights from the water
Lisbon in September is a delightful experience, blending pleasant weather with the city’s rich cultural heritage and modern attractions. Whether you’re exploring historic neighborhoods, enjoying scenic views, or indulging in delicious vegan cuisine, Lisbon offers something for everyone. Embrace the charm of this vibrant city and create unforgettable memories this September.
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link. This is at no extra cost to you.
We would be thrilled if you would use our Affiliate links attached here. If you buy something using our links, we receive a small commission. This helps us to continue creating amazing content on the blog for free. Thank you so much!
AFFILIATE LINKS – CLICK HERE
THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:
- Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
- Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
- North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
- Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
- Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!
OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:
- DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Portugal, then check out Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
- iTalki – do you want to learn some Portuguese before traveling to Portugal? Then, we recommend iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
- NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
RELATED POSTS
The Best Things to Do in Lisbon
How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Lisbon
Guide to the 12 Best Beaches in Cascais
How to have an insanely fabulous weekend in Ericeira
The Ultimate Lisbon Travel Guide
Leave a Reply