There’s something special about Portugal in autumn. The beaches are calmer, the heat has softened into a pleasant warmth, and the rhythm of local life takes over again after the summer rush.
For anyone dreaming of owning a home in Portugal, September and October are ideal months to explore the country at its most authentic.
A viewing trip now allows you to enjoy Portugal at a gentler pace, while also taking important steps towards making your property dream a reality.
Choosing where to go
Portugal is wonderfully varied. One weekend you could be sipping wine in Porto’s riverside cafés, the next walking cobbled lanes in Tavira or catching the last rays on the Algarve’s golden beaches.
Before you set off, it helps to narrow down your search. Ask yourself if you’re looking for a permanent move, perhaps with an eye on how to retire to Portugal, or if you’re simply in search of a holiday retreat.
Lifestyle preferences will guide you towards the right region — whether that’s the cultural energy of Lisbon, the rural tranquillity of the Alentejo, or the golf courses of Vilamoura.
Our location guides to where to buy property in Portugal is a good starting point.
Making appointments
Viewing trips work best when you’re prepared. Autumn is a busy season for agents, so booking appointments in advance is wise.
Choose no more than a handful of properties each day, allowing time to explore each one properly. This is your chance not just to admire the interiors, but also to notice details such as the direction of the sun, the noise of the neighbourhood, and how close you are to cafés, markets and transport.
If you’re unsure how to find the right partner, our guide to selecting an estate agent in Portugal will help.
While in-person is always going to best, you can also organise virtual viewing trips. Find out more about online and on the-scene-viewings by claiming your free copy of our Viewing Trip Guide.
Beyond the properties
A successful viewing trip isn’t only about bricks and mortar. It’s about imagining your life here. Wander through local markets, enjoy a long lunch in a family-run restaurant, and take note of how towns feel at different times of day.
The quieter pace of autumn lets you see places as residents do, rather than as summer visitors.
If you’re considering staying long term, you may also want to explore essentials such as schools, healthcare or even what it’s like to work in Portugal.
Meetings that matter
While you’re in Portugal, set aside time to meet professionals who can make your purchase smoother. Talking to a solicitor about the legal requirements of buying property can help you feel more confident when it comes to paperwork.
If you’re considering finance, it may be worth speaking with a mortgage broker in Portugal during your stay. Even if you don’t make an offer immediately, these conversations put you in a stronger position for when you do.
Be ready to move quickly
Properties can sell fast in Portugal, particularly in sought-after coastal towns and cities. It’s wise to familiarise yourself with the process of buying property in Portugal so that you know what to expect if you decide to take the next step.
Understanding the costs of buying property in Portugal is equally important, as it ensures there are no surprises.
And if you do fall in love with a home during your trip, our guide on making an offer on a property in Portugal will show you how to proceed with confidence.
Turning a trip into a future
A viewing trip in autumn is about more than just seeing houses — it’s about feeling the possibilities of a new lifestyle. From savouring your morning coffee on a sunlit terrace to discovering the rhythm of a local community, these moments are just as valuable as the property tours themselves.
With the right preparation, your visit could be the first step from holidaymaker to homeowner.
