Having spent over five years exploring Portugal, each month adds a distinctive touch to the experience. September in the Algarve is a perfect example. With its pleasant weather, lively cultural scene, and typical natural beauty that the Algarve is famous for.
Here are nine of my favorite reasons you should consider the Algarve for your September getaway!
Warm Autumn Weather
September in the Algarve offers a continuation of the summer, with temperatures usually around 24-28°C (75-82°F) and up to 10 hours of daily sunshine.
It’s ideal for outdoor activities like the beach, water sports, and great weather for hiking. While the intense summer heat of August has started to lift off, the sea remains warm enough for swimming. In fact, sea temperatures in the Algarve peak around the end of August start of September! One thing to consider is the occasional cooler evenings, so packing a light jacket or layers is a good idea to stay comfortable when the sun sets.
Lower Costs After Peak Season
With the peak summer season over, September starts to experience a decrease in mass tourism, which makes it a more budget-friendly time to visit. Don’t expect low-season prices, September is still a favourite time for a lot of people.
You can enjoy lower prices on accommodation, flights, and car rentals compared to the peak summer months. It’s a great time for those seeking to experience the Algarve’s beauty without the summer crowds and extreme high prices.
Harvest Season and Fresh Produce
September marks the harvest season in the Algarve. The local markets are brimming with fresh produce, and you’ll find amazing local products like figs, grapes, and almonds. It’s the perfect time to indulge in the region’s food, from fresh seafood to seasonal fruits.
One of the best ways to really experience this is during the event called Rota do Petisco. Where multiple municipalities, work with local restaurants to organise a route through the Algarve where you can taste lots of different specialties in petisco form!
Wine Harvest Festivals
The Algarve celebrates its wine harvest in September with various festivals and events. You can participate in grape picking, traditional wine-making processes, and, of course, wine tasting. The Festa das Vindimas in Lagoa is a popular event, showcasing the region’s rich viticultural heritage.
Uncrowded Beaches
September is a great time to enjoy the Algarve’s stunning beaches without the typical summer crowds you’ll find in July and August. Iconic spots like Praia da Marinha and Praia de Benagil are much more peaceful, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. As mentioned, the weather and the sea temperature are still perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
Golfing in Perfect Conditions
The Algarve is famous for its world-class golf courses, and September offers ideal conditions for golfing. The courses are less crowded than in the peak summer months, and the weather is perfect for a day on the green. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy some of Europe’s best courses without the intense summer heat, or those high prices.
Bird Watching and Nature Walks
September is a fantastic time for bird watching in the Algarve, as many migratory birds begin their journey south. The Ria Formosa Natural Park and other reserves like in Castro Marim are teeming with birdlife, offering excellent opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The mild weather also makes it a perfect time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Festivals and Events in the Algarve in September
The Algarve’s event calendar in September is lively and varied. Here are a few of our favorite events!
- Festival F: Faro. Festival F is one of the biggest events in the Algarve calendar. It is a major event featuring music, art, and performances, celebrating the end of summer. 2024’s will be held on 5th, 6th and 7th of September.
- Rota do Petisco: Usually from the middle of September to the middle of October. One of the best ways to experience the incredible culinary scene in the Algarve is during an event called the Rota do Petisco. Multiple municipalities are involved organising a route across the Algarve where you can taste lots of different specialties in petisco form!
- Festas do Pescadors – These traditional festivals to celebrate fisherman are held in a few towns, notably Albufeira and Quarteira. Albufeira’s usually happens in the first week of September. No date has yet been announced though!
- Festa de Alcoutim: Alcoutim is a beautiful small village on the Guadiana river in the east of the Algarve. This is your typical village festa with local food, products and arts and crafts.
- Festival da Praia de Odeceixe: One of my favourite festivals in September is the Odeceixe Beach Festival, yep a festival held right on the beach. This one celebrates Praia de Odeceixe being voted one of the best beaches in Portugal back in 2012.
Will you be visiting the Algarve in September?
Visiting the Algarve in September is a fantastic experience, and one of my favourite times of the year. You get an excellent blend of summer, and summer activities, without the usual hustle and bustle. Whether its exploring the Algarve’s incredible beaches, charming towns, or lively events, there’s something for every traveler. Will you be visiting this September?