Weather in the Algarve in October

October sees the Algarve shift to quieter, cooler period. Though not the most obvious month to visit for a beach break, given that average daily temperatures often reach 23°C, it’s perfectly possible to enjoy said beaches, with fewer crowds cramping your style. It’s also a wonderful time to uncover local culture and wildlife, and walk on the wilder side. Read on for detail on the weather in the Algarve in October, along with ideas for what to see and do during your autumn trip to Portugal.

Highlights of the Algarve weather in October

• This shoulder-season month is ideal if you prefer smaller crowds and milder temperatures, with average daily highs of around 23°C (73°F).
• The cooler temperatures make October ideal for hiking, cycling, and golfing.
• With sea temperature averaging 19°C (66°F), swimming is enjoyable for most folks.
• Though a little wetter than the summer months, rainfall remains relatively low.

Planning to visit the Algarve in October? Take inspiration from our customisable Portugal itineraries and read our year-round travel guide.

Is October a good time to visit the Algarve?

If you're looking to enjoy mild-to-warm weather, smaller crowds, and potentially lower costs, October is an excellent time to visit the Algarve.

With day-time highs remaining around 23°C (73°F), the chill of autumn has yet to kick in, and conditions are near-perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Take your pick from hiking and cycling, or how about golfing exceptional courses in very pleasant conditions?

While October sees a slight increase in rainfall compared to the summer months, it's still relatively low, averaging around 67mm across the month. Again, this is well-suited to outdoor activities, but bring a brolly, just in case!

It’s also worth noting that October sees the Algarve’s landscapes wearing lusher, greener livery after the dry summer months. 

At the same time, wildlife-lovers will be happy to hear that this month sees the Algarve host the Sagres Birdwatching Festival during a key month for bird migration.

Into food and culture? October has your name all over it, with Faro’s Feira de Santa Iria showcasing local food alongside amusement rides and craft stalls.

Finally, sitting in a post-summer shoulder season, October is also a great time to visit the Algarve if you’re not keen on big crowds, and are hoping to bag yourself a bit of a bargain. 

Not sure where to head in autumn? Discover more of the best places to visit in October.

Average temperatures in the Algarve in October

With average highs around 23°C (73°F) and night-time lows hovering around 15°C (59°F), the weather in the Algarve in October is ideal for those who aren’t keen on the intense heat of summer.

At the same time, the sea remains warm enough for swimming. The temperature remains around 19°C (66°F), which is comfortable for most.

Want a fuller picture of the weather? Read up on the weather in Portugal in October beyond the Algarve.

You might also want more detail on how to get to Portugal and when to go to Portugal around the year.

What about the crowds and cost?

Given that the summer holiday season is well and truly over, October sees a significant decrease in tourist numbers. This means less crowded beaches, attractions, and resorts, which often makes for more relaxed experience.

When it comes to costs, with the decrease in demand, prices for flights, accommodation, and car rentals generally decrease, too. As a result, October is a pretty budget-friendly time to visit the Algarve.

Editor’s tip: Looking for more options for an autumn getaway? Check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable holiday in October.

Unforgettable customisable Portugal itineraries

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Portugal, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides’ local expert.

Enabling you to forgo the faff of planning and booking, they can be 100% tailored to your preferences to create your perfect trip.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• The Real Algarve Experience (7 days): based in the traditional fishing village Olhao, this immersive trip will see you experience the Algarve in authentic style. With a focus on food and culture, you'll get to enjoy a private food tour, take a market-to-table cooking class, visit an olive farm, and enjoy a traditional sweet-making workshop. You’ll also spend time exploring the stunning islands of Ria Formosa lagoon.
• The Best of Portugal (12 days): taking in capital Lisbon, historic Porto, the lush Douro Valley, and the Algarve, this gives you the chance to explore historic sites in Lisbon and Sintra and sample world-class wine in the Douro Valley, with boat trips, beaches and UNESCO Heritage Sites aplenty.
• Discovering the Coast of Portugal (11 days): kicking off in picturesque Porto, where you’ll uncover historic sites and wineries, this diverse experience also includes Aveiro — known as the Venice of Portugal — the Algarve, national parks, charming traditional villages, and historic caves.

Explore more customisable Portugal itineraries.

Looking for more ideas for your holiday? Explore our guide to the best beach destinations for holidays in Europe.

What to do and see in the Algarve in October

Pleasantly mild, and decidedly more peaceful than the peak of summer, October has much to offer travellers when it comes to local festivals and seasonal wildlife events. 

Add to that the fact that it’s a top time to experience the region’s historic towns and beautiful beaches in less crowded conditions, and this shoulder season month amounts to being an all-round winner.

Here are some of the best things to see and do in the Algarve in October.

Soak up sublime beaches in more serene style

With fewer crowds and warm sea temperatures remaining around 19°C (66°F), October is ideal for enjoying some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal.

For example, the likes of Praia da Rocha, Praia da Luz, and Praia de Odeceixe offer relaxing environments, with the bonus of beautiful autumn sunsets.

Attend the Feira de Santa Iria

Held in Faro in the second half of October, this traditional fair is one of the oldest and most popular in the region. 

Expect fun amusement rides, craft stalls, food vendors, and live entertainment.

Be inspired by birds

Located on the migratory paths of many bird species, the Algarve is a prime spot for bird watching in October.

As a bonus, the Sagres Birdwatching Festival provides a fabulous focal point for events, talks, guided walks and workshops.

Get active

October's cooler temperatures make it one of the best months to golf in the Algarve, with the region's top golf courses — such as those in Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo — offering less crowded playing conditions, and more affordable prices.

Hikers and bikers will also want to take advantage of the mild weather to explore the Algarve’s scenic trails, such as the Via Algarviana and the Rota Vicentina. 

Drink in local culture (and wine)

October is the ideal month to head to handsome historic towns like Tavira, Silves and Lagos to explore their castles and museums without the summer crowds. 

And, with the grape harvest just over, it’s also a top time to visit vineyards for wine tasting sessions. 

For more inspiration, read up on the best things to do in the Algarve.

Visit the Algarve in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in the Algarve around the year.

• January: with a temperature range of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), this is the coldest month of year, with low-season tourist levels.
• February: similar to January, but slightly warmer, February remains quiet, though the beginning of the Almond Blossom season attracts more visitors.
• March: mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), March is a great month for outdoor activities without the crowds.
• April: with a pleasant temperature range of 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F), shoulder-season April sees more sun, less rain, and a rise in visitors around Easter.
• May: great beach weather begins in May, with warmer temperatures drawing more crowds, though it’s not nearly as busy as summer.
• June: with temperatures averaging 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F), June is perfect for beach breaks and water sports, and heralds the start of peak season.
• July: July sees the Algarve turn hot, with average highs of  28°C (82°F). It also sits in the summer high season.
• August: peak season continues in August, with high visitor numbers, vibrant nightlife, and similar temperatures to July.
• September: September remains warm, but temperatures start to cool, and visitor numbers begin to taper off as the month wears on.
• November: sitting in low season, November sees cooler temperatures, and is a great time to visit for the likes of golf and exploring the countryside.
• December: cool and quiet, low-season December offers average temperatures of 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).