Weather in the Algarve in December

The Algarve isn’t exactly hot in December, but it stays mild enough for coastal walks and quiet explorations. Think empty beaches, steaming hot springs, and laid-back Christmas markets without the tourist crush. Read on for what to expect from the weather in the Algarve in December – plus ideas for what to do and tips on how to travel to Portugal.

Highlights of the Algarve weather in December

• Cool and quiet, low-season December offers average temperatures of 9°C to 17°C (48°F to 63°F).
• Much milder than the summer months, the weather is well-suited to the likes of hiking, golfing and exploring historic towns.
• Expect to experience around 94mm of rainfall through the month, though it’s unlikely to rain every day.

Thinking of visiting the Algarve in December? Take inspiration from our customisable Portugal itineraries and read our year-round travel guide.

Is December a good time to visit the Algarve?

If you’re looking for a quieter and potentially less expensive December holiday in mild temperatures, December can be a good time to visit the Algarve. 

With smaller crowds, and seasonal sparkle, it’s certainly a very different experience from visiting during the summer season. Just don’t come expecting a typical winter sun experience! 

That said, you’ll still be able to go for long scenic strolls on some of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, and you many well have them all to yourself.

As for the weather in the Algarve in December, while temperatures typically only reach a high of 16°C (61°F), it’s warmer than many parts of northern Europe. 

Come prepared for chilly mornings and evenings and some rain — a brolly, raincoat and warmer clothing — and you’ll find December is a great time to explore the region’s scenic coastline and interior trails.

As December sits in a low season for tourism, you could look take advantage of great rates for accommodation, perhaps considering saying in a luxury hotel that would be out of reach in the summer. 

Lastly, while not on the scale of those in Germany, for example, December sees the Algarve light up with Christmas markets, festive decorations, and events in towns like Faro, Loulé, and Albufeira. 

Looking for more options for your winter holiday? Explore our list of the best destinations to visit in December.

Average temperatures in the Algarve in December

December is one of the coolest months in the Algarve, with average highs around 16°C (61°F) and lows at night dropping to around 9°C (48°F). 

While it’s cooler, especially in the evenings and mornings, it’s still mild compared to much of northern Europe at this time of year.

Meanwhile, average sea temperatures sit around 18°C. While this is too chilly for most, hardier souls do still brave the water.

Want a bigger picture of the weather? Read up on the weather in Portugal in December beyond the Algarve.

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 touched on above, December is a low season for tourism in the Algarve. This means less crowded attractions and beaches, and more relaxed, authentic experience than you might enjoy during the busy summer. 

With fewer visitors and lower demand, the price of flights and accommodation tend to decrease, though be mindful of a spike around the Christmas period, and book early.

Editor’s tip: want to escape the crowds? Consider heading off the tourist trail in Portugal. This is also a great way to implement 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 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.

What to do and see in the Algarve in December

With a distinct lack of tourists, and mild weather that invites leisurely strolls through stunning scenery and towns that sparkle with seasonal cheer, visiting the Algarve in December presents marvellous opportunities to relax, recharge and reflect.

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

Enjoy Christmas markets

Attractive towns across the Algarve, among them Faro, Loulé, and Albufeira, host charming Christmas markets through December.

You can look forward to picking up traditional crafts, tasting local festive foods, and enjoying seasonal entertainment, with some locations offering temporary ice-skating rinks.

Cosy up in a winery

December is a pretty good time for winery tours and tastings. Many wineries remain open through the low season, offering a cosy way to spend an afternoon tasting local wines and learning about the production processes.

Editor’s tip: another great way to chill out in the Algarve in December is to visit thermal baths and spas. You might just bag yourself a bargain in one of the more luxurious spots.

Uncover culture

December is a top time to uncover the region’s history and culture without the crowds. 

Museums, palaces, and historic sites like the Castle of Silves and the Cathedral of Faro are more accessible at this time of year — all the better for a more leisurely, more immersive experience. 

Explore the great outdoors

Take advantage of the cool, mild weather to hike, bike, or visit the iconic Benagil Caves on a less busy boat trip.

For example, the Rota Vicentina and Via Algarviana are popular routes that offer scenic views and a chance to take in the region’s natural beauty without the stifling summer heat, and frustrating summer crowds.

Editor’s tip: as a result of many migratory species visiting the area, the Algarve’s acclaimed wetlands, especially Ria Formosa Natural Park, are excellent for bird watching at this time of year.

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.
• April: with a pleasant temperature range of 11°C to 20°C (52°F to 68°F), shoulder-season April sees more sun, less rain, and a rise in visitors around Easter.
• 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.