Broadly speaking, the best time to go to Portugal is spring (from February) or early autumn, but it all depend on what you want from your trip. In September and October, the weather isn’t too hot, the sea is warm, and the summer crowds have gone. A drop in temperature during these months also makes it an ideal time for sightseeing.
If you want to cover a bit of everything on your trip – sightseeing, outdoor activities, some lazy days on the beach with a dip in the ocean, the best month to visit Portugal is September. It’s still hot, but not fiercely so, and the sea is probably at its warmest.
April to early May is also wonderful. Although sea temperatures are decidedly bracing, the landscapes are beautiful – lush, and alive with flowers, before the dry months of summer roll in.
You can almost rely on sunshine and heat wherever you are in Portugal in the summer months, with July seeing very little rainfall in the Algarve and up the coast to Lisbon. Central Portugal can be fiercely hot. Rain is far more likely in Porto and the Costa Verde, averaging 20mm in the same month. Indeed, the northern end of the country experiences more rain throughout the year.
It's important to note that summer is also Portugal's busiest season. This means a lively and bustling atmosphere, but it can also mean crowded spots, particularly at popular tourist destinations.
Winter is cooler and it can get rather stormy, but there are still plenty of hours of sunshine, making Portugal a year-round destination. The Algarve, in particular, more often than not has bright days and mild temperatures. In contrast, the north is rather cold with temperatures sometimes dropping to 8˚C around Porto and snow likely to fall in the mountains bordering Spain.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg Temp (°C) | 10 | 11 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 19 | 21 | 22 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 11 |
| Rainfall (mm) | 110 | 100 | 80 | 70 | 50 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 40 | 100 | 110 | 120 |
Beach at Porto Covo © Shutterstock
Choosing the ideal time to visit can make all the difference in your experience. Do you crave the lively buzz of summer crowds or the quiet charm of off-peak exploration? Are you seeking warm beach days or cool, crisp adventures in historic sites?
If you’re wondering when to go to Portugal, spring (March, April and May) is delightful. The hills are popping with pretty flowers and almond blossom is in full bloom. It’s also gorgeously warm, and generally dry weather makes for ideal hiking conditions, such as along the Rota Vicentina, the network of coastal trails in the south west, or in the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, in the north.
While it might be too cold for swimming in early spring, the beaches start to come alive with warmer temperatures later in the season.
Spring is a popular season, yet it's not as crowded as the peak summer months. This means you can soak up the charm of Portugal's cities without the masses. Stroll through Lisbon's winding streets or meander through Porto's colorful neighborhoods in the mild weather. It's the perfect time to delve into Portugal's main tourist destinations (like castles, palaces, and ancient ruins) without the scorching heat of summer.
Albufeira, Algarve, Portugal © Shutterstock
There’s barely a cloud in the sky in Portugal during the summer. June, July and, August are, quite simply – hot, with temperatures hanging around the 30°C mark up and down the country. It's truly lovely weather to take a dip or enjoy water sports.
But we warned: everyone flocks to the coast in summer. August is particularly busy, when the Portuguese take their holiday and join foreign travellers making a beeline for Portugal’s golden beaches.
Peak season brings a spike in prices – worth bearing in mind when thinking about the best time to travel to Portugal. It’s also too hot to take on much sightseeing or hard-core hiking. That said, Sintra, just a half hour’s drive from Lisbon, sees temperatures hover around a pleasant 23˚C in June. Coincide a visit to its lavish palaces and gardens with the Music festival that takes place throughout the month.
Lisbon has mild weather all year round © Shutterstock
Autumn in Portugal ticks the boxes for city visits and outdoor pursuits, as air and sea temperatures are still warm – without the crowds you get during the summer.
This season is perfect for city breaks and sightseeing, for example, in Lisbon and Sintra and Porto, when the heat is no longer intense. The toned down temperatures are also ideal for trekking, in the Parque Nacional da Paneda-Gerês, for example, or horse-riding in the Algarve and Alentejo.
Speaking of the Algarve, it is lovely this time of year – a great time to chill out on one of its many splendid beaches. And, if you’re wondering when to go to Portugal for the warmest sea temperatures, this is your window, after it’s had the summer months to warm up.
Bear in mind though that from mid-September the facilities are closed, as the official swimming season is only from the beginning of June until the middle of September.
Porto and the north are well known for its vineyards and wineries and sees its annual grape harvest between September – October. Head for the Douro region to take part in the harvest and grape pressing, and tour the wine estates.
Winter (December, January February) offers a different charm in Portugal. The crisp, sharp sunshine makes winter an appealing time to visit central Portugal, while in the south, especially on the coast, it is mild all year round. In the north, on the other hand, it’s pretty cold, especially inland where snow is common along the mountainous border areas.
Winter marks the off-peak tourist season, meaning fewer crowds at popular spots. This translates to shorter lines and a more laid-back pace. If you're into winter sports or simply want a taste of snow, Serra da Estrela, Portugal's highest mountain range, is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
Another perk of traveling in winter is that prices for accommodations and flights tend to come at discounted rates. Just be aware that as winter progresses, the days become shorter, so plan your activities accordingly.
Rolling fields in the Alentejo © Shutterstock
It's good to know that this country's weather isn't a one-size-fits-all situation. From the cool north to the sunny south, each region has its own unique climate.
Up in the north, you've got a maritime climate thanks to the nearby Atlantic Ocean. Winters are pretty mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F), and summers are pleasant, hitting about 25°C (77°F). Rain? It's spread out through the year, but in general, is also mild.
For the best time to visit, our pick is late spring (May or June). That's when the weather is warm and the rain takes a bit of a break. It's the perfect time to explore Porto, Braga, and the beautiful landscapes.
Moving down to central Portugal, you're looking at a classic Mediterranean climate. Summers get hot and dry, around 28°C (82°F), while winters stay mild, hanging around 14°C (57°F). If you're planning a trip here, aim for early autumn (September or October). That's when the weather is best for exploring Coimbra, the Serra da Estrela mountains, and the Silver Coast beaches.
As for the sunny south — here, you can expect a warm Mediterranean climate. This means hot, dry summers around 30°C (86°F), and mild, rainy winters at about 15°C (59°F). The Algarve, in particular, is famous for its sunshine.
When's the best time to hit up the Algarve and Southern Portugal? Late spring (May and June) and early autumn (September and October) is when we would recommend going. This is when the sun is out in full force, perfect for beach days. The summer months may have better weather, but they are also sure to have massive crowds.
Surfing is great year-round in Portugal and different areas on the coast come into their own at different times of the year. Late spring and the summer months, when waves tend to be relatively gentle, are generally the best time for beginners, and for those wanting to combine some sun with their surf. However, if you’re asking when is the best time to visit Portugal for an all-round enjoyable surf, September and October generally hit the sweet spot – fantastic weather, warmer sea temperatures, fewer people paddling for the same waves, and more consistent surf conditions.
Pena Palace, Sintra © Shutterstock
Portugal stands as a country rich in cultural heritage, evident in its calendar packed with vibrant festivals and events that echo its history, religious traditions, and strong community spirit. From ancient religious observances to modern cultural festivities, there's always something engaging happening in Portugal that both locals and visitors find captivating.
Kicking off the year with a splash of color and festivity, Epiphany, known as Dia de Reis in Portugal, falls on January 6th. This holiday marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men to visit the infant Jesus, and it is celebrated with parades, processions, and traditional sweets like Bolo Rei, a delicious cake adorned with candied fruit.
The town of Óbidos is renowned for its Dia de Reis celebrations, with a colorful parade and the opportunity to taste authentic Bolo Rei from local bakeries.
just before the solemnity of Lent sets in, Portugal erupts into a riot of colour with Carnaval. Typically held in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar, Carnaval is a time for elaborate costumes, lively street parties, and parades. The cities of Lisbon, Ovar, and Torres Vedras are particularly famous for their Carnaval festivities.
Our favourite Carnival celebrations are held in the city of Torres Vedras. Here you will find the iconic "Matrafonas" with oversized heads, who roam the streets during the celebrations.
Almost every village in Portugal has its own festival (festa) or traditional pilgrimage (romaria), usually to celebrate the local saint’s day or the regional harvest.
Some are little more than an excuse for the villagers to hold a low-key procession and picnic or barbecue and dance, while others have become serious celebrations lasting several days and attracting tourists from all over the world.
Homes of Porto, Portugal © Shutterstock
Easter, or Páscoa, holds significant religious importance in Portugal, and Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday is observed with solemnity and reverence. Many towns and cities host processions depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ, with participants dressed in elaborate costumes. Funchal, in Madeira, is renowned for its impressive Easter Sunday procession.
If you're in Madeira for Easter, don't miss the flower carpets laid out in Funchal's streets — a stunning display of thousands of colorful petals.
In the historic city of Barcelos, the Festa das Cruzes (Festival of the Crosses) takes place from May 1st to May 3rd. This colorful festival commemorates a miracle involving a rooster and a falsely accused pilgrim and features stunning floral displays, processions, concerts, and traditional dancing.
The legend behind the Festa das Cruzes involves a rooster coming back to life to prove the innocence of a man wrongly accused of theft. Today, roosters are a common symbol in Barcelos.
Lisbon's vibrant LGBTQ+ community celebrates diversity and equality with Arraial Pride, one of Europe's largest Pride events. Usually held in June, Arraial Pride fills the city's streets with rainbow flags, music, dance, and a jubilant atmosphere of acceptance and celebration.
Lisbon's Pride celebrations are not just about parties; they also feature cultural events, debates, and exhibitions, promoting inclusivity and awareness.
The Santos Populares, or Popular Saints, are celebrated throughout Portugal, with Lisbon's festivities being the most famous. Taking place in June, particularly on the nights of June 12th and 13th, Lisbon becomes a party hub with streets adorned in colorful decorations, sardine grilling, lively music, and people dancing until the early hours in honor of St. Anthony, St. John, and St. Peter.
Vineyards on the banks of the Douro © Shutterstock
In the charming city of Guimarães, the Festas Gualterianas pay homage to St. Gualter, the city's patron saint. Held in the first weekend of August, this festival dates back to the 19th century and features historical reenactments, processions, traditional games, and fireworks, attracting locals and tourists alike.
Don't miss the "Cortejo da Mordomia," a colorful procession with participants dressed in period costumes, depicting the history and traditions of Guimarães.
A highlight of the city of Setúbal's calendar is the Festa do Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem, held in August. This maritime-themed festival honors Our Lady of Good Voyage, the patron saint of sailors, with colorful processions, concerts, street markets, and a traditional regatta.
Setúbal's Festa do Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem includes a procession of boats on the Sado River, decorated with flowers and lights, as a tribute to the city's maritime heritage.
For horse lovers, the Feira Nacional do Cavalo in November is a must-visit event in Golegã. Known as the Horse Capital of Portugal, Golegã hosts this prestigious horse fair, showcasing magnificent Lusitano horses through equestrian shows, competitions, exhibitions, and a lively fairground.
On November 11th, Portugal celebrates São Martinho, a festival that marks the end of the agricultural year and the tasting of the season's new wine. Known as the Feast of St. Martin, this festival is accompanied by the roasting of chestnuts and the saying "No São Martinho, comem-se castanhas e prova-se o vinho," which translates to "On St. Martin's Day, we eat chestnuts and taste the wine."
Join in the tradition of roasting chestnuts over an open fire and enjoying them with a glass of "água-pé," a lightly fermented grape juice.
The festive season in Portugal is a magical time, filled with traditions that blend religious customs with joyful celebrations. Christmas markets pop up in cities like Lisbon and Porto, offering an array of artisanal crafts and seasonal treats. Families come together for a Christmas Eve feast, often featuring codfish and traditional sweets like rabanadas (French toast) and bolo-rei. Midnight Mass is a cherished tradition, and the country sparkles with Christmas lights and decorations throughout December.
Visit the Óbidos Christmas Village for a magical holiday experience, with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and the opportunity to taste the local "ginjinha," a cherry liqueur served in edible chocolate cups.
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written by
Michelle Bhatia
updated 23.04.2024
