Weather in the Algarve in April

The Algarve is a year-round destination, but April hits a sweet spot. With average temperatures between 11°C and 20°C (52-68°F), it’s mild enough for hiking and sightseeing – and you’ll dodge the summer crowds. If you're after a spring break with room to breathe, this is it. Read on for what the weather in the Algarve in April looks like, what to do while you're there, and tips on how to travel to Portugal.

Highlights of the Algarve weather in April

• Warmer than the preceding months, April strikes a great balance for visitors who prefer mild spring temperatures to sweltering summer heat.
• Expect an average of eight hours of sunshine each day.
• Rainfall is relatively low, averaging around 38 mm, spread over about nine days.
• Overall, April's mild weather is ideal for exploring the great outdoors.

Inspired to visit the Algarve in April? Take inspiration from our customisable Portugal itineraries and read our all-year travel guide.

Is April a good time to visit the Algarve?

Considering the weather in the Algarve in April, it’s a good time to visit if you’re looking for warmer weather and longer hours of sunshine compared with the shorter, chillier days of the preceding months.

That’s especially so if you’re hoping to explore the region’s scenic coastline and enjoy its outdoor activity offerings, along with seeing spring in full bloom.

Bearing in mind that the Algarve offers great opportunities to get off the tourist trail in Portugal, April’s manageable shoulder-season visitor numbers make such experiences all the more authentic. Talking of which, April also plays host to the Easter Folar de Olhão Festival.

In short, while crowds — and costs — will be up on January, February and March, April is a good month to visit if you prefer warmer weather, more space, and better value. 

Still not sure where to head? Discover more of the best places to visit in April.

Average temperatures in the Algarve in April

When it comes to average temperatures, the weather in the Algarve in April sees a typical low of 11°C (52°F), while the average high temperature reaches about 20°C (68°F). 

Bearing that in mind, you might just find yourself blissing out on beaches in April. At the very least, you’ll certainly be able to stroll some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, take walks on the wilder side, and explore scenic towns in villages without feeling the chill.

Want a fuller picture of the weather? Read up on the weather in Portugal in April beyond the Algarve area.

You might also want more detail on how to get to Portugal and when to go to Portugal around the year.

What about the crowds and cost?

As mentioned above, April is a shoulder season month in the Algarve, and Portugal more generally. 

This means while crowds will be up on January, February and March — especially around Easter when that falls in April — it’s a great time to visit to explore top historic attractions and enjoy the likes of hiking, golfing, bird-watching and beach excursions without the intensity of peak summer season crowds.

As for the costs, given that visitor numbers are moderate, it’ll be easier and cheaper to find accommodation at a better price than during the peak season that runs from June to mid-September.

Note that if you’re looking for a similar balance of warmer weather, more reasonable prices, and moderate crowds, May and October are also shoulder-season months.

Keen to travel more responsibly? Find out about sustainable tourism in the Algarve.

Unforgettable customisable Portugal itineraries

If you fancy seeing a rewarding range of Portugal, consider taking a trip that’s been curated by a Rough Guides’ local expert.

Enabling you to forgo the faff of planning and booking, they can be 100% tailored to your preferences to create your perfect trip.

Here are a few sample itineraries to spark inspiration:

• The Real Algarve Experience (7 days): based in the traditional fishing village of Olhao, this immersive trip will see you experience the Algarve in authentic style. With a focus on food and culture, you'll get to enjoy a private food tour, take a market-to-table cooking class, visit an olive farm, and enjoy a traditional sweet-making workshop. You’ll also spend time exploring the stunning islands of Ria Formosa lagoon.
• The Best of Portugal (12 days): taking in capital Lisbon, historic Porto, the lush Douro Valley, and the Algarve, this gives you the chance to explore historic sites in Lisbon and Sintra and sample world-class wine in the Douro Valley, with boat trips, beaches and UNESCO Heritage Sites aplenty.
• Discovering the Coast of Portugal (11 days): kicking off in picturesque Porto, where you’ll uncover historic sites and wineries, this diverse experience also includes Aveiro — known as the Venice of Portugal — the Algarve, national parks, charming traditional villages, and historic caves.

Explore more customisable Portugal itineraries.

Looking for more options for your holiday in April? Find the perfect holiday destination with our top suggestions.

What to do and see in the Algarve in April

Offering pleasant, warm weather that’s ripe for outdoor activities, and exploring national parks and charming coastal towns without peak season crowds, April offers visitors opportunities to enjoy a diversity of experiences in the Algarve.

Here are some of the best things to do and see in the Algarve in April.

Attend Folar de Olhão Festival

Dedicated to the traditional Easter cake known as 'Folar', this festival takes place in the traditional fishing village of Olhão. 

It's not just about the cake, though — the festival also offers live music, local crafts, and opportunities to taste traditional regional foods.

Explore captivating coastal towns

Take advantage of the mild weather to explore coastal towns like Lagos, Tavira, and Albufeira. 

The cooler temperatures are perfect for taking walking tours through historic streets, visiting ancient castles, and enjoying the seaside ambiance free from the intense summer crowds.

Hike and bike

The Algarve offers numerous trails that are particularly enjoyable in April’s cooler temperatures. 

Whether you opt to tackle the famous Via Algarviana trail that stretches across the region, or to walk the scenic coastal paths, outdoor activities are a great way to see the landscape.

Go golfing

With less crowded courses and mild-to-warm weather, April is a prime time for golfers to get to grips with the region’s world-class courses.

For more inspiration, read up on the best things to do in the Algarve.

Visit the Algarve in different months

To be better informed before booking your trip, find out what to expect of the weather in the Algarve around the year.

• January: with a temperature range of 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), this is the coldest month of year, with low-season tourist levels.
• February: similar to January, but slightly warmer, February remains quiet, though the beginning of the Almond Blossom season attracts more visitors.
• March: mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F), March is a great month for outdoor activities without the crowds..
• May: great beach weather begins in May, with warmer temperatures drawing more crowds, though it’s not nearly as busy as summer.
• June: with temperatures averaging 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F), June is perfect for beach breaks and water sports, and heralds the start of peak season.
• July: July sees the Algarve turn hot, with average highs of  28°C (82°F). It also sits in the summer high season.
• August: peak season continues in August, with high visitor numbers, vibrant nightlife, and similar temperatures to July.
• September: September remains warm, but temperatures start to cool, and visitor numbers begin to taper off as the month wears on.
• October: with average daily highs remaining around 23°C (73°F), this shoulder-season month is ideal if you prefer cooler weather and smaller crowds.
• November: sitting in low season, November sees cooler temperatures, and is a great time to visit for the likes of golf and exploring the countryside.
• December: cool and quiet, low-season December offers average temperatures of 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).