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Inspired?If you're thinking about jetting off to Portugal in May, you're in for a treat. This month is known for mild weather and crowds, and with lots of great events. Here’s our guide to the weather in Portugal in May.
If Portugal is on your radar for a May getaway, you're in luck, as it's the season of blooming flowers and sunny days. Throughout the country, May brings warm temperatures and clear skies, making for an ideal setting for a visit.
Rainfall during May is generally minimal, with Portugal seeing an average of around 20-50mm of precipitation. While there might be occasional showers, sunny days predominate. Daytime temperatures typically remain comfortably warm, which is great for activities such as hiking, beach outings, and sightseeing.
In May, Portugal experiences moderate to high tourist traffic as it enters its peak tourist season. Although it's not as bustling as the later summer months, tourist numbers start to increase, particularly towards the end of the month as the weather warms up.
Overall, the weather in Portugal in May makes for a fantastic time to experience Portugal. With lots of sun, little rain, and somewhat manageable crowds, this month is for many a favorite month to travel to the country.
Tips from Joel
Portugal Travel Expert
May is my favorite month in Portugal. The weather is warm but it isn’t really reaching the scorching temperatures of, say, July or August. It often feels like the country is waking up from winter hibernation with the blooming flowers and warmer days.
In May, the weather in Portugal generally tends to be warm and sunny with occasional showers, particularly in the northern regions. This month experiences mild and pleasant temperatures, with daytime averages ranging from 64°F to 79°F (18°C to 26°C) and nighttime lows of 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C).
In Porto and Northern Portugal, May offers mild and comfortable weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from approximately 64°F to 72°F (18°C to 22°C). Nighttime temperatures typically drop to around 50°F to 57°F (10°C to 14°C). Rainfall is moderate, with an average of 1.97-2.76 inches (50-70mm) throughout the month.
Lisbon and Central Portugal experience mild and sunny days in May, with daytime temperatures reaching from about 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C). Evenings provide a slight chill, with temperatures ranging from 54°F to 61°F (12°C to 16°C). Rainfall remains moderate, with an average of 1.57-2.36 inches (40-60mm) over the month.
In the southern region of Portugal, including the Algarve, May marks the beginning of summer-like weather, with daytime averages ranging from approximately 72°F to 79°F (22°C to 26°C). Nighttime temperatures remain comfortable, typically between 57°F to 64°F (14°C to 18°C). Rainfall is minimal, with an average of 0.79-1.57 inches (20-40mm) for the month.
The island of Madeira continues to enjoy its pleasant subtropical climate in May, with daytime temperatures ranging from about 68°F to 75°F (20°C to 24°C). Nights are pleasantly cool, with temperatures averaging between 59°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C). Rainfall remains minimal, with an average of 0.39-0.79 inches (10-20mm) throughout the month and the island's lush landscapes are in full bloom.
May in Portugal is undeniably one of the best times to visit. As spring reaches its peak, the country becomes a place of mild temperatures, blossoming landscapes, and a calendar packed with cultural happenings.
The weather is generally warm, sunny, and dry, perfect for outdoor exploration and sightseeing. The tourism season kicks off, but crowds aren't at full throttle yet, so you can take in the country without feeling like you're in a sardine can.
To make the most of your May visit to Portugal, consider packing lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and outdoor attractions. It's also advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially if you plan to visit popular tourist destinations or attend specific events. Overall, May offers an ideal blend of favorable weather and fewer crowds, making it an excellent time to travel to Portugal.
May in Portugal kicks off the peak tourist season, so you can expect things to heat up – both in terms of weather and crowds. With the sun shining bright and the days stretching longer, it's no wonder folks flock here to soak up the beauty of Portugal's landscapes, cities, and coastline. But fair warning: popular spots can get pretty packed, especially on weekends and holidays. This is especially true towards the latter half of the month.
May marks the start of the high season, so prices for pretty much everything – accommodation, transportation, and dining out – tend to creep up a notch. While not as expensive as the sweltering summer season, you can expect higher costs compared to the winter months.
If you're looking to avoid the peak-season hustle and bustle while still enjoying similar weather, consider visiting during the shoulder months of September or late October. Though there is more potential for rain, these months still have great weather and fewer crowds.
Ready to explore Portugal? Start preparing by finding out how to get there.
As you gear up for your May excursion to Portugal, take a moment to see if any of these events are taking place during your stay. It's wise to secure your accommodations well in advance. Moreover, if you're seeking more ideas for your trip, don't miss our handpicked list of the best things to do in Portugal.
The Fatima Pilgrimage stands as one of Portugal's largest religious gatherings, drawing millions of pilgrims to the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in central Portugal. Devotees flock to pay homage to the Virgin Mary, visit the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and engage in Masses, processions, and prayers. It's a profoundly spiritual experience that attracts believers from around the globe seeking solace, healing, and blessings.
The Madeira Flower Festival transforms the island of Madeira into a spectacle of color and fragrance. Streets of Funchal are filled with floats adorned with intricate floral arrangements, accompanied by music, dance, and traditional costumes. This vibrant festival celebrates the island's natural beauty and rich floral heritage.
Transporting visitors back to ancient Roman times, Braga Romana offers historical reenactments, gladiator battles, and theatrical performances against the backdrop of Braga's Roman heritage. Exploring Roman ruins, participating in workshops, and indulging in traditional Roman cuisine immerse visitors in this captivating cultural festival.
The streets of Santa Maria da Feira come alive with the Imaginarius International Street Theater Festival, showcasing innovative performances and artistic interventions from street artists worldwide. Acrobatics, puppetry, music, and dance create enchanting moments of wonder and exploration.
The Islamic Festival in Mértola celebrates the cultural heritage of the Alentejo region, which has deep historical ties to Islamic civilization. Visitors can explore exhibitions, workshops, and performances that showcase the rich legacy of Islamic art, architecture, and cuisine.
Serralves em Festa at the Serralves Foundation in Porto is a marathon of contemporary arts and culture. From dusk till dawn, the park hosts performances, installations, and interactive experiences spanning music, dance, theater, and visual arts, inviting audiences to explore new horizons in contemporary culture.
University students across Portugal bid farewell to the academic year with Queima das Fitas, a traditional celebration featuring parades, concerts, and parties. Colorful ribbons and burning effigies symbolize the end of studies, marking a rite of passage and a joyous conclusion to another year of academic achievement.
Celebrated across various towns and villages, with Barcelos boasting particular grandeur, the Festa das Cruzes, or Festival of the Crosses, paints streets and squares with vibrant flower-covered crosses. Processions, concerts, and traditional dances infuse the atmosphere with joy, marking not just a celebration of faith but also the arrival of spring.
Find even more options for your trip in our list of the best vacation destinations in May.
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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Portugal
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 12.08.2024
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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