October in Portugal has that first-hint-of-autumn feel. Grape juice on your trainers in the Douro, chestnut smoke in the lanes, soft light on the castles, and a steady run of food and film events in the cities. You'll get calmer beaches, busy cultural calendars and the odd Atlantic downpour while getting stuck into the things you can do in October in Portugal.
- 5 October – Implantation of the Republic (Implantação da República), nationwide
- 7 October – National Day of Castles (Dia Nacional dos Castelos), nationwide
- EDP Lisbon Marathon
- Vindimas (harvest open days)
- Chestnut fairs and magusto (late October into mid‑November)
- Festa do Cinema Francês (French Film Festival)
5 October – Implantation of the Republic (Implantação da República), nationwide
Portugal's Republic Day marks the 1910 revolution. It’s a civic day with wreath‑layings, flag ceremonies and museum specials, plus the usual holiday trading hours.
- What to expect: Ceremonies around São Bento and the riverfront in Lisboa, and smaller events in district capitals.
- Transport: Urban networks run on reduced Sunday/holiday timetables, so check the first/last departures if you’re planning a day trip.
- Local tip: If it creates a long weekend, book restaurant reservations in central Lisbon/Porto early.
7 October – National Day of Castles (Dia Nacional dos Castelos), nationwide
A celebration of Portugal’s fortifications, coordinated with municipalities and heritage groups. During National Castle Day, many castles offer free entry, special tours and family activities.
- São Jorge Castle in Lisbon and Arnoia Castle in Celorico de Basto both take part in the festival.
- How to find the programme: Look for “entrada gratuita”, “visita guiada” and “inscrição obrigatória” on municipal sites or the castle’s Facebook.
- Practicalities: Capacity on guided visits is capped, so book the morning slot for clearer views and smaller groups.
EDP Lisbon Marathon
Marathon day in Lisboa brings three road races on a mostly flat, coastal-and-riverside course. It’s popular with both first‑timers and PB hunters, with plenty of spots for friends to cheer along the Tejo.
- Takes place on the 25th of October
- The route starts in Carcavelos and finishes at Praça do Comércio, Lisbon.
- Spectator spots: Belém by the Torre de Belém and Mosteiro dos Jerónimos for iconic backdrops. Pick the river path near Santo Amaro, or the last kilometre into Praça do Comércio for a loud finish.
Vindimas (harvest open days)
Harvest and the wine festival season in Portugal is largely wrapped up by mid‑October in most regions. However, many estates still run tastings, cellar tours and, at a few places, grape‑treading sessions.
- Where to look: Douro (Quinta da Pacheca, Quinta do Seixo, Quinta do Panascal), Dão/Bairrada (Cabriz and Quinta das Bágeiras), Alentejo (Herdade do Esporão, Cartuxa around Évora/Reguengos), and Setúbal/Palmela (José Maria da Fonseca, Bacalhôa)
- Booking and prices: Pre‑booking is standard, while typical tastings/tours cost between €20 and €80 per person, depending on flight size and extras.
- Insider tip: Harvest dates shift with the weather, and estates confirm availability a week or two ahead.
Chestnut fairs and magusto (late October into mid‑November)
Local celebrations of roasted chestnuts, the boozy drink of jeropiga and folk music. The biggest blowouts are around São Martinho (11th November), but late‑October weekends already see village parties and town fairs.
- Where you’ll see them: Trás‑os‑Montes, the Beiras and the Serra de São Mamede are particularly active.
- Family note: Smoke and sparks are part of the scene; a light jacket you don’t mind smelling of chestnuts is a wise pick.
Festa do Cinema Francês (French Film Festival)
A long‑running touring festival with screenings in Lisboa, Porto, Coimbra, Faro and beyond, organised by the French cultural network. In 2025, Festa do Cinema Frances takes place from 2nd to 31st October.
- Language and subtitles: Most films run in the original version with Portuguese subtitles. Various English‑language titles appear each year.
- Key venues: Cinema São Jorge and Cinemateca Portuguesa (Lisboa), Cinema Trindade (Porto), plus sessions in university towns.
- Tickets and passes: tickets are 6 euros.
- Local tip: Post‑film Q&As often pop up on weekday evenings and draw smaller crowds, which suits anyone who likes a quieter room.
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