✈️ Flight Guide: San Francisco (SFO) → Lisbon (LIS)

In September, flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) are typically offered as one-stop itineraries via major European and U.S. hubs such as Madrid (MAD), London (LHR), Frankfurt (FRA) and Newark (EWR). Nonstop options are rare; expect total travel times from about 14 to 18+ hours depending on layover length. Book early for the best September fares and search multi-airline combinations to find the most convenient schedule.

Typical door-to-door flight time from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) ranges from approximately 14 to 18 hours depending on routing and connection times. Actual airborne time (flying time) is usually around 11 to 13 hours plus layovers. Use flight search filters for fastest itineraries if time is a priority when booking September travel.

Yes, September is a shoulder season for Lisbon which often brings competitive airfares compared with peak summer months. Prices can drop in early and late September as demand cools after August, but weekends and festival dates may cause spikes. For the best September deals, book 2–3 months in advance and set price alerts for SFO to LIS flights.

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers extensive international terminal services including global entry, TSA PreCheck lanes, lounges, currency exchange, and direct BART and shuttle connections to San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose. In September, airports are less crowded than peak summer but still busy in mornings and evenings—arrive at least 3 hours before international departures. Use airport apps to monitor security wait times and lounge availability.

Baggage rules depend on the carrier—most transatlantic one-stop itineraries include at least one checked bag for economy basic+ fares, but low-cost or basic economy tickets may charge for checked luggage and seat selection. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short tourist stays in Portugal (Schengen) under current rules, but carry your passport valid at least three months beyond your intended stay. Check airline baggage policies and passport validity before your September trip.

In September, weather around San Francisco can include morning fog and variable traffic; factor in transit time to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Shoulder-season fares and pleasant Lisbon weather make September ideal, but monitor festival dates and book hotels early. Bring a light jacket for SFO airport terminals and a daypack for Lisbon day trips to Sintra, Cascais and nearby wine regions.

Arriving at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in September you’ll typically find pleasant late-summer weather, efficient passport control for most travelers, and good ground transport options including the Metro, Aerobus, taxis, and ride-hailing. Peak arrival times often coincide with morning and evening transatlantic schedules—allow extra time for luggage pick-up during busy windows and check local airport advisories for terminal updates. Lisbon’s nearby top destinations include Cascais, Sintra, Porto, and the Algarve (Faro).

September in Lisbon is warm and sunny with average highs around 24–28°C (75–82°F) and cooler evenings near 17–19°C (63–66°F). Pack lightweight layers, a light jacket for coastal breezes in Cascais and Sintra, comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets, and a travel umbrella for occasional showers. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for daytime sightseeing and beach excursions.

Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) offers efficient Metro service (Red Line) to central Lisbon and easy connections to the Blue and Green lines. The Aerobus shuttles connect major hotels and Avenida da Liberdade, while taxis and ride-hailing services provide faster door-to-door options to Cascais, Sintra, and central Lisbon. For Porto or the Algarve (Faro), consider domestic flights or comfortable rail and bus links from Lisbon’s train stations.

Yes, Lisbon offers city cards such as the Lisboa Card which provide unlimited public transport, free or discounted entry to museums, and skip-the-line benefits—useful during September when cultural attractions remain busy. Purchase online ahead of arrival for immediate use at Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) or at central kiosks. Combining a Lisboa Card with scheduled day trips to Sintra or Cascais can save time and money.

As of September travel planning, Portugal’s entry requirements may change—check official government and airline guidance before departure. Typically, vaccinated travelers face fewer restrictions, but documentation requirements and testing rules can shift. Monitor the Portuguese government and airline websites in the days before travel to Lisbon for the most current health entry rules.