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Best time to visit Portugal: All you need to know

Team AckoFeb 12, 2024

Portugal is a beautiful country full of charming hillside towns, historic castles, and delicious local cuisine. Visitors from all over the world are drawn to its diverse regions and temperate climate. In this article, you will learn about the best time to visit Portugal so that you can plan your trip accordingly.

Contents

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

The best time to visit Portugal is between July and August. Traditional festivals, extravagant culinary feasts, outdoor concerts, and many more fill Portugal's calendar. If you exclude the festival season, it's hard to say which month is ideal for visiting Portugal.

When is the best season to visit Portugal?

The best season to visit Portugal is their peak tourist season and summer season, which generally lasts from July to August. Temperatures in the ocean are higher in the summer, especially in the southern region of the Algarve. In July and August, the water is warm, and most people visit the beach to soak up the rays. Like most other goods and services, hotel rates usually increase by 30% or more during the summer peak season. Fortunately, this is one of the most joyous seasons to visit Portugal, as many small festivals and parades are taking place alongside larger national ones (including concerts and film screenings).

Peak season: Portugal’s peak tourist season coincides with their summer season, which is generally between July to August. The prices of travel-related services can be expensive; thus, it is suggested to book your tour a few months ago.

Shoulder season: March, June, September, and October are the months that comprise the shoulder season. You can experience Portugal at a comparatively lower cost than in the peak season if you visit the country during this period.

Low season: Portugal’s low tourist season starts in November and goes on till February. This can be termed as the rainy season as the region receives high rainfall during this period.

A month-by-month guide to travel in Portugal

This section highlights month-wise travel details.

Portugal in January

While this is one of the drier months of the year, it will still be relatively warm. Generally speaking, the weather in Lisbon is a decent indicator of what to expect around the country. Thus, if you're curious about the climate in Portugal's capital city of Lisbon in January, you'll be happy to know that the average temperature is a comfortable 15 degrees Celsius.

Temperature range to expect: 8°C – 16 °C
Events: Epiphany, New Year's Day

Portugal in February

Like any country, the weather in Portugal in February may be anything from terrible to ideal. This month occurs during the colder season of winter. The average high temperature in Portugal in February ranges from a chilly 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit) in Penhas Douradas to a comfortable 17 degrees Celsius (63 degrees Fahrenheit) in Lajes. Average lows in Lajes dip to 12 °C (54 °F) at night, while those in Penhas Douradas drop to 1 °C (34 °F).

Temperature range to expect: 7°C - 17°C
Events: Fantasporto International Film Festival

Portugal in March

Despite Portugal's seeming modest size, March can bring varying conditions. The average monthly rainfall in Lisbon decreases to 2 inches in March, and the month's warm temperatures make it an ideal time to visit the city without having to contend with a lot of tourists. Temperatures in Lisbon average around 18 degrees Celsius (or 65 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) at night (10 degrees Celsius).

Temperature range to expect: 18°C - 50°C
Events: St. Joseph's Day, Santarém

Portugal in April

Because the Portuguese dislike the cold, you can tell that more and more people are smiling this month. Get rid of your heavy coat and switch to lighter layers (but remember your umbrella!) Temperatures in Lisbon average 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius), with occasional days of rain and highs of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius). At most, temperatures in Porto drop to 64°F (18°C), and the city experiences 9 wet days every month. The southern region of Algarve, where the average temperature is 61 °F (16 °C), and highs can reach 73 °F (23 °C), is the warmest in Portugal.

Temperature range to expect: 15°C - 23°C
Events: Holy Week, Easter, Liberty Day

Portugal in May

In Portugal, the wet spring days begin to dwindle in May, giving way to warmer temperatures and lots of dry, sunny days. Expect highs of 54 °F (12 °C) with a chance of showers in the northern part of the country. Highs in Lisbon can reach 72 °F (22 °C), warmer and drier than the rest of Portugal. In May, the Algarve, located in southwestern Portugal, has average highs of 72 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius), making beach trips more feasible.

Temperature range to expect: 12°C -25°C
Events: May Day/Labor Day

Portugal in June

The average temperature in Lisbon at this time of year is a comfortable 25 degrees Fahrenheit, with a low of just 16 degrees. With only 17mm of rain reported in June, the weather is ideal for strolling around the city and its environs. Porto receives roughly 46mm more rain than Lisbon annually and has somewhat lower average temperatures of 23°C during the day and 14°C at night. Regarding the weather this month, the southern Algarve is as good as gold, with conditions practically identical to those in Lisbon. From Porto to Lisbon, Albufeira to the Ria Formosa, the average sea temperature is a pleasant 18.5 degrees Celsius, perfect for those who enjoy swimming in cool water.

Temperature range to expect: 14°C - 23°C
Events: Festas de Lisboa, National Agriculture Festival,

Portugal in July

The heat is on, with hot days and warm evenings ideal for seaside sundowners, outdoor cafes, and dinners under the stars. Protect yourself from the sun's rays (especially if you'll be spending any time near the water) by packing sunscreen and a hat, and drinking plenty of water.

Temperature range to expect: 25°C - 30°C
Events: AgitAgueda, Boom Festival

Portugal in August

Now is the time to take advantage of the warm weather and enjoy open-air eating, sundowners by the sea, and coffee in the park as the days grow warmer and the mercury rises. Use protective clothing, such as a hat and sunblock, while venturing outdoors (especially important near the seaside), and drink enough water.

Temperature range to expect: 25°C - 30°C
Events: Sudoeste Festival, Madeira Wine Rally, Assumption Day

Portugal in September

The warm weather lasts through most of September, but the peak summer season and accompanying crowds have long passed. Although the days are still rather nice, you may want to bring a sweater as the month passes and the temperature drops at night.

Temperature range to expect: 24°C - 26°C
Events: Our Lady of Nazaré Festival

Portugal in October

Temperatures begin to drop in October, marking the official end of summer and the beginning of autumn. You can plan on a higher frequency of cloudy days, a lower frequency of sunny ones, cooler evenings, and moderately warm days. The Azores have a similar cooling trend, but you can also anticipate 10–12 wet days. It's recommended that you bring a light raincoat for the day and a warm one for the evening, as well as an umbrella and probably some rain boots.

Temperature range to expect: 18°C - 24°C
Events: Republic Day, Lisbon Marathon, Major pilgrimage to Fátima

Portugal in November

When November ushers in Portugal's colder winter months, the country's notoriously fickle climate often brings increased precipitation to urban areas and Atlantic coast storms. There are still more sunny hours than cloudy ones, but the beach days are over. Just in case, you should dress in layers, including a raincoat, sweater, and umbrella.

Temperature range to expect: 12°C - 19°C
Events: All Saints' Day

Portugal in December

Weather in Portugal in December can range from mild to quite cold. A wet Mediterranean winter brings precipitation to the country's coastal regions, although the inland areas remain rather dry. On average, Lisbon experiences beautiful sunny days with temperatures between 15 and 9 degrees Celsius. One of Europe's warmest December nights can be found in Lisbon, making it the perfect place to go for strolls after supper and visit many holiday markets.

Temperature range to expect: 9°C - 15°C
Events: Restoration of Independence Day, Feast of the Immaculate Conception, Christmas Day

When is the cheapest time to visit Portugal?

When it comes to planning a trip to Portugal, the cheapest time to visit is typically in January and February. The cooler temperatures mean fewer crowds and lower prices. This is an ideal time for budget travellers looking to explore the country without breaking the bank. Travellers should keep in mind that while the weather may be cooler, the sea temperatures remain comfortable, making it a great time to explore Portugal's stunning caves and beaches.

When is the most expensive time to visit Portugal?

Travelling to Portugal during peak season, which typically runs from late June to early September, will usually be more expensive and more difficult to book than during other times of the year. The busiest months are usually July and the Holy Week period, so it is best to book flights and accommodation well in advance if you plan to travel at this time. However, if it is unavoidable, make sure to research prices ahead of time so that you know what to expect. Be prepared to pay more for your stay than during other times of the year.

When is the best time to visit Portugal for a honeymoon?

Spring (March to May) is the best time to visit Portugal for a honeymoon. The weather is pleasant and perfect for exploring the country and its stunning natural beauty. During this time, you can expect temperatures ranging from 17-29°C and occasional showers, making it ideal for romantic outdoor activities.

When is the best season for exploring the hidden cave beaches in Portugal?

Exploring the hidden cave beaches in Portugal is best done during the summer months, when temperatures are warm and the sea is ideal for swimming. For those looking for a more secluded experience, the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October may be better suited, as the weather isn't too hot and there will be fewer crowds. Whichever time of year you choose to visit Portugal, you can be rest assured that you will have plenty of opportunities to explore its many gorgeous beaches.

Why you must get travel insurance when visiting Portugal

Vacationing abroad doesn’t always go smoothly. There are plenty of things that can go wrong, and they often catch us unaware. Besides the mental trauma of being stuck abroad and feeling helpless, incidents such as medical emergencies, loss of baggage, and flight delays can leave a big dent in your pocket. So in order to eliminate the uncertainty, it's best to buy travel insurance online before your trip to Portugal.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently Asked questions-Best Time and Season to Visit Portugal

Which is the best month to visit Portugal?

March, April, and May can be termed as the best months to visit Portugal as the nation is awakening from its winter dormancy and is at its most beautiful and vibrant during this period.

Which is the tourist season in Portugal?

In much of Europe, July and August are seen as the busiest months, as people from all over flock to Portugal to experience its stunning beauty.

How many days are sufficient for Portugal?

While there's no definitive answer to this, we recommend at least a week to truly explore Portugal's many wonders.

Which is the rainiest month in Portugal?

From November through February, Portugal typically experiences the heaviest rainfall, with December being the rainiest month of all. As such, many travellers choose to avoid visiting in these months if they are not prepared for regular periods of showers and thunderstorms. That being said, Portugal certainly remains a beautiful and enchanting country despite its wetter months!

What is Portugal famous for?

Here are the top five things that Portugal is famous for when it comes to tourism.

Delicious Cuisine: Portugal has some of the most unique and delicious dishes in all of Europe, from salted cod to pastel de nata and grilled shrimp.
Beautiful Landscapes: Whether it's the cliffs of Sintra or the vineyards near Porto, you won't be disappointed by the sheer beauty of this country.
Monumental Castles: From São Jorge Castle in Lisbon to Pena Palace in Sintra, these majestic structures are sure to take your breath away!
Fine Wines: Whether you enjoy a light rosé or a full-bodied tawny port, you'll find something to suit your taste in Portugal!

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Disclaimer: The content on this page is generic and shared only for informational and explanatory purposes. It is based on industry experience and several secondary sources on the internet, and is subject to changes.