September is one of the best months to visit the Algarve, offering a perfect blend of warm weather, fewer crowds, and an array of outdoor activities. At this time of year, the Algarve basks in the golden glow of late summer, with the region’s outdoor culture still in full swing.

Despite being one of the busiest months for tourism, the Algarve feels calmer and less hectic in September, since it is outside of the school holidays. This makes it an ideal time for couples’ getaways, relaxed beach breaks and leisurely touring holidays.

The weather in September is among the region’s finest, with warm sunny days that have shed the intense heat of midsummer but retain a pleasant warmth ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is the perfect time of year for exploring the Algarve, enjoying the beaches and indulging in the local cuisine - without the peak summer crowds.

Visiting in late summer is fantastic, as the region still has a vibrant energy without being overrun with tourists, offering a more relaxed experience. Since September is just outside of the peak season, flights and accommodation are generally more affordable. It is an excellent month for spontaneous trips and beach holidays.

This article will explain why you should visit the Algarve in September and help you get the most from your trip.

September is an outstanding month to discover the Algarve and its stunning coastline. Some of the highlights that you should not miss include:

Explore the dramatic cliffs and golden beaches, such as the glorious Praia da Falésia and Praia da Marinha beaches.

Visit the picturesque towns of Lagos and Tavira. Wander through charming streets, take in the historic architecture, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of these quaint towns.

Discover the natural beauty of Ria Formosa, a protected lagoon system perfect for bird watching, hiking, and exploring unique flora and fauna.

Take a boat tour to the Benagil Cave. Marvel at this spectacular sea cave, with its iconic skylight and stunning rock formations.

Enjoy water sports at Praia da Rocha. From surfing to kayaking, this vibrant beach offers a range of water activities.

Visit the historic town of Silves. Explore the ancient castle, the cathedral, and learn about the region’s Moorish history.

Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This scenic coastal hike offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and unique cliff formations.

Relax at Praia Dona Ana. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning cliffs, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the Algarve.

An excursion to Zoomarine. AThis outstanding marine life and water park offers dolphin shows, flumes, and a host of activities for all ages. By far the best theme park in Portugal.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Albufeira. Enjoy lively bars, nightclubs, and a festive atmosphere in this popular resort town. Even in September, Albufeira still knows how to party!

The following map shows the locations of these highlights (green) along with the most popular beach resorts (yellow), which are detailed later in this guide. Please zoom in or out to see all of the points:

Highlights: 1) Praia da Falésia beach 2) Praia da Marinha beach 3) Lagos 4) Tavira 5) Ria Formosa 6) Benagil Cave 7) Silves 8) Seven Hanging Valleys Trail 9) Praia Dona Ana beach 10) Zoomarine
Popular holiday destinations: 11) Albufeira (Old Town) 12) Albufeira (New Town) 4) Tavira 3) Lagos 13) Alvor 14) Vilamoura 15) Carvoeiro 16) Armação de Pêra 17) Faro

The Algarve enjoys some of its best weather in September, with bright, sunny days and comfortable evenings. The transition from the peak heat of summer to the cooler autumn makes it an ideal time to visit.

The average day time maximum and the nighttime minimum temperature for the Algarve

Official statistics for the Algarve in September report a daytime high of 28°C (82°F) and a nighttime minimum of 19°C (66°F). There is an average of three days with some rain in September, and an average of 10 hours of sunshine per day, with a UV index of 6.

The average hours of sunshine per day and monthly rainfall (in mm)

Monthly averages can vary, but the key point is that there are still plenty of sunny hours each day. Occasional grey or wet spells may occur, but these are typically brief.

The weather is warm enough for beach trips and outdoor activities yet mild enough to enjoy walking tours and sightseeing without the fatigue caused by high summer temperatures. In the evenings, a light breeze often cools the region, making for pleasant nights out.

Simply put, September offers some of the best weather for enjoying all that the Algarve has to offer.

The Algarve in September is fantastic, as the pleasant summertime weather continues and visitors are drawn to its beaches. Outdoor dining venues are also thriving, with the outdoor culture at its peak at this time of year.

The summer season may have wound down, but the region remains vibrant with plenty of events and activities to choose from. Water parks like Slide & Splash and attractions like Zoomarine are still open - but with shorter queues - making it a great time to visit.

In September, the Algarve’s nightlife is still lively. Every night, the bars and clubs of Albufeira and Lagos are filled with tourists and locals enjoying the warm evenings.

For those seeking a romantic or last-minute holiday, September offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. This calmer vibe also makes it a popular destination for older visitors.

Carvoeiro is a great holiday destination

Hopefully, we’ve shown you that the Algarve is a fantastic destination in September. The next decision is where to base yourself for your holiday. The Algarve is a large region, with a coastline of over 150km, and there are more than 20 beachside towns and villages to choose from.

This next section will detail the best beach towns and who they are most suitable for. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, family-friendly activities, or a romantic getaway, the Algarve has a perfect spot for you.

Albufeira (Old Town) - The Algarve’s largest resort town, with a vast selection of bars, restaurants, and a magnificent beach. This is perfect for couples and families wanting an exciting holiday. Our guide to Albufeira

Albufeira (New Town) - Known for its vibrant nightlife, Albufeira’s New Town is the destination for parties, drinks, and lively groups, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. If you want a party-focused holiday, this is where to head.

Tavira - The quintessential Portuguese fishing town, located in the calmer eastern Algarve. This is the location for an authentic Portuguese holiday. Our guide to Tavira

Lagos - A vibrant town with stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a lively historic centre. Perfect for both adventure and relaxation, it offers water sports, boat tours, and a bustling nightlife. Our guide to Lagos

Alvor - A delightful small town situated close to a magnificent beach. This is a great base for older visitors or couples wanting a calm holiday with an authentic Portuguese feel. Our guide to Alvor

Vilamoura - High-end and fashionable, Vilamoura is known for its luxurious marina, upscale restaurants, and sophisticated ambience. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a refined getaway. Vilamoura is the best location for a golfing holiday, boasting several world-class golf courses. Our guide to Vilamoura

Carvoeiro - A charming coastal town, Carvoeiro features stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and a relaxed vibe. With numerous walking trails and boat tours available, it’s a great alternative to Alvor for those seeking a tranquil yet engaging holiday experience. Our guide to Carvoeiro

Armação de Pêra - This town is fantastic choice if you want to be near the excitement of the central Algarve but would prefer not to stay in one of the larger towns. It’s an ideal location for families with young children. . Our guide to Armação de Pêra

Faro - A historic city with a charming Old Town, surrounded by the saltwater lagoons of the Ria Formosa Nature Park. Excellent public transport makes it an ideal base from which to explore the Algarve, but there are no beaches within walking distance. . Our guide to Faro

The old city wall of Faro

The warm, pleasant weather of September makes it the perfect time for sightseeing in and around the Algarve. The region’s many varied towns and natural sites are waiting to be explored, and there are plenty of fantastic day trips to enjoy. Here are some of the top recommendations for your sightseeing adventures:

Tavira
Head to Tavira, a beautiful town known for its charming architecture, Roman bridge, and peaceful ambience. It’s perfect for a leisurely day of exploration and relaxation.

Ria Formosa
Visit Ria Formosa, a natural park with a unique ecosystem. Explore the diverse wildlife, go on a boat tour, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of this protected area.

Benagil Cave
Take a boat tour to the Benagil Cave, one of the most famous natural landmarks in the Algarve. The cave’s stunning skylight and impressive rock formations make it a must-see.

Silves
Travel to Silves, a historic town with a rich Moorish heritage. Explore the well-preserved castle, visit the cathedral, and learn about the town’s fascinating history.

Seven Hanging Valleys
Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a scenic coastal path offering some of the most breathtaking views in the Algarve. It’s perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

The Pretty town of Silves and the imposing castle

When packing for the Algarve in September, it’s important to consider the region’s mild but occasionally variable late-summer weather. To stay comfortable, focus on layering: pack lightweight, breathable items such as t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight sweater or cardigan for cooler evenings. For bottoms, comfortable jeans, trousers, or skirts are suitable, and don’t forget your swimwear for beach days.

Footwear should prioritise comfort and versatility, as the Algarve’s cobbled streets and hiking trails can be challenging to navigate. Comfortable walking shoes, preferably waterproof, are a must, and you might want to include a pair of more formal shoes for evening outings. The Algarve’s nightlife and dining scenes are vibrant yet relaxed, so pack a smart-casual outfit for these occasions.