Best time to visit Portugal

Put simply, the best time to go to Portugal depends on what you want from your trip, with spring and early fall of-cited as being the most favorable periods by repeat visitors. For more detail, read on for a bigger picture of the weather in Portugal, along with information on what to expect from visiting in different months of the year.

Weather in Portugal at a glance

• Best time to visit? In spring (March to May) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller.
• Consider the crowds: Peak tourist season in Portugal is during the summer months, from June to August. Expect busier crowds — and higher costs.
• Rain? The rainy season in Portugal generally runs from October to April, varying slightly by region.

Eager to start planning your trip to Portugal? Contact our local experts who will tailor a unique itinerary to meet your needs. 

When is the best time to visit Portugal?

If you want to cover a bit of everything on your trip – sightseeing, outdoor activities, lazy days on the beach with dips in the ocean — the best month to visit Portugal is September. It’s still hot, but far less intense than summer, and the sea will be at its warmest.

April to early May are also wonderful. Although sea temperatures are chilly, the landscapes are beautiful — lush, and alive with flowers, before the dry months of summer roll in.

Visiting Portugal in spring

Spring is a great time to visit Portugal. While it’s not quite the peak tourist season, you'll notice more visitors than in winter. But don't worry—it’s nothing like the crowded summer months. This means you can enjoy Portugal's cities in a warm and lively atmosphere without the stress of big crowds.

This means you can soak up the charm of Portugal's cities with a vibe that’s warm and lively, but all the better for being free from huge peak season crowds.

When is spring in Portugal

March, April, and May

Events and things to do during spring

Portugal is delightful in spring. At this time of year, the hills pop with pretty flowers and almond blossom is in full bloom and with generally dry weather offering ideal hiking conditions. 

For example, you could explore the Rota Vicentina — a network of coastal trails in the southwest — or the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês, in the north.

Part of Portugal, but closer to North Africa, Madeira is an absolutely brilliant destination for sublime scenery around the year.

Here are some the best events of the season:

• Festa das Camélias (Camellia Festival): In Vila Nova de Famalicão in March, this festival showcases over 1,000 varieties of camellias. The city turns into a colorful paradise, with stunning floral displays and competitions for the best camellia blooms.
• Óbidos International Chocolate Festival: Usually happening in March or April, this festival is a dream for chocolate lovers. Think chocolate sculptures, tastings, and chocolatiers from around the world showing off their intricate creations and unique flavors.
• Festa de São Gonçalinho: Celebrated in Aveiro in early May, this quirky festival involves locals throwing sweet bread from church rooftops—a tradition called "cavacas" that’s meant to bring good luck. The festival also includes lively processions and traditional music and dance.
• Iberian Mask Festival: Held in Lisbon in May, this event celebrates traditional masks from Portugal and Spain. It’s a must-see for those interested in the cultural heritage of mask-making, bringing together artisans, anthropologists, and enthusiasts.
• Serralves em Festa: This is a 40-hour, non-stop cultural extravaganza in Porto, typically in early June. Held at the Serralves Foundation, it features concerts, dance performances, theater shows, and art installations, making it a marathon of creativity.

Rough Guides tip: Ready to explore Portugal? Start preparing by finding out how to get there.

Weather in Portugal in the spring

Spring weather in Portugal is all about a gradual warming trend and longer daylight hours. Temperatures generally range from 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C), but they vary by region.

In Lisbon, for example, daytime highs go from 64°F (18°C) in March to 72°F (22°C) by May. Down in the Algarve, it’s often milder. The northern regions like Porto are cooler and a bit wetter.

Rain is more common early in the season, with March being the wettest month—especially in Porto, which sees around 5.04 inches (128mm) of rain, compared to Lisbon's 2.09 inches (53mm). By May, it’s much drier, with Porto getting about 3.50 inches (89mm) and Lisbon only 1.54 inches (39mm). Sunshine also increases as spring moves on, from around 6-7 hours a day in March to 9-10 hours by May.

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

Visiting Portugal in summer

When you visit Portugal in the summer, you'll find miles of stunning coastline, with everything from the golden beaches of the Algarve to the rugged cliffs along the Atlantic. 

Keep in mind that summer is Portugal’s busiest season, drawing in tourists from all over Europe and beyond. This brings a lively vibe with bustling cafes, packed restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, but it also means that beaches, resorts, and popular spots will be crowded.

When is the summer in Portugal?

June, July and August

Events and things to do in the summer

Given how busy the most popular beaches and tourist attractions can get, we recommend peak-season summer as being an ideal time to try to get off the tourist trail. As stunning as Sintra can be, you'll find it absolutely packed with tourists and selfie-sticks during the summer.

You want to consider checking out hidden gems like the Berlengas Islands off Peniche, the historic town of Óbidos with its medieval charm, or the serene Douro Valley for some wine tasting with stunning views. If you’re into nature, the Peneda-Gerês National Park in northern Portugal offers hiking, waterfalls, and traditional villages away from the coastal crowds.

Not only is this a great way to implement sustainable travel in Portugal, but it’ll also give you opportunities to enjoy a more authentic, less frantic trip.

Summer is also packed with events you won’t want to miss:

• São João Festival (June 23-24, Porto): Celebrate St. John the Baptist with street parties, bonfires, fireworks, and quirky traditions like hitting each other with plastic hammers and releasing colorful hot air balloons.
• NOS Alive (Early July, Lisbon): A major music festival featuring international artists, this three-day event combines world-class performances with a showcase of Portuguese culture and cuisine.
• Festival do Sudoeste (August, Zambujeira do Mar): Set against stunning coastal scenery, this music festival offers a mix of international and Portuguese acts across various genres.
• Festa do Colete Encarnado (Early July, Vila Franca de Xira): A bullfighting festival celebrating the region’s bull-running tradition, complete with parades, folk dancing, and traditional music.
• Feast of the Assumption (August 15, Nationwide): Marked by religious processions and festivities, this day is particularly vibrant in Nazaré with a seaside procession, and in Porto, where it coincides with the lively Festa da Senhora da Agonia.

Weather in Portugal in the summer

In the summer, you can count on plenty of sunshine and heat all across Portugal. The Algarve and the coast up to Lisbon see very little rain, with temperatures generally around 86°F (30°C), sometimes hitting 95°F (35°C) or higher in inland areas. The Algarve enjoys about 12 hours of sunshine each day at the peak of summer, and with sea temperatures around 71.6°F (22°C), it's perfect for swimming and water sports.

Central Portugal can get extremely hot and dry, with places like Évora and Beja often soaring above 104°F (40°C). Up in the north, around Porto and the Costa Verde, temperatures are usually cooler, ranging from 77°F (25°C) to 86°F (30°C), and there’s a higher chance of summer showers, which can be a nice break from the heat.

Coastal areas benefit from refreshing sea breezes that make the heat more manageable, but inland cities like Lisbon can feel especially warm due to the urban heat island effect.

If you're still trying to make the best of this summer, see our guides to  the best August vacation  destinations, the best vacation destinations in July and the best vacation destinations for June.

Visiting Portugal in fall

If you're planning to visit Portugal in the fall, you're in for a treat. With fewer tourists around, you’ll get to experience the country in a more authentic way. The weather is still pleasant, and you’ll find plenty of cultural events and delicious food to enjoy.

The Atlantic coast can see some storms, especially as you get into late fall, but inland areas like the Douro Valley are stunning with their fall foliage. It's the perfect time for scenic drives and wine harvests.

When is fall in Portugal?

September, October and November

Events and things to do in Portugal in the fall

Surfing in Portugal is great year-round, but if you’re an experienced surfer looking for some exciting waves, September and October are prime months. The waves are consistently good, offering a great mix of challenge and fun.

Fall is also a fantastic time to dive into the local food scene. November marks the start of the olive season, and you can visit olive oil mills to see the pressing process and taste fresh olive oil.

Here are some standout events:

• Festa das Vindimas (Grape Harvest Festival): Held in various wine regions throughout September and October, this is the perfect time to visit the Douro region. You can participate in the grape harvest, join in on grape pressing, and tour the local wine estates.
• Feira de São Mateus: Running from August to September in Viseu, this historic fair is one of Portugal’s oldest and largest. It’s a lively event with traditional products, crafts, and entertainment.
• Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival: Happening in November, this international film festival draws filmmakers and film lovers from around the globe. Screenings are held in historic venues in Lisbon and the scenic town of Sintra.
• Feira Nacional do Cavalo (National Horse Fair): Held in Golegã in November, this event is a must-see for anyone interested in Portugal's equestrian traditions. It’s the biggest horse fair in the country, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide.
• Festa de São Martinho: Celebrated on November 11th across Portugal, this festival is all about roasted chestnuts and tasting new wine. Known as "Magusto," it’s a cozy, communal event where people gather to enjoy these seasonal treats around bonfires.

Weather in Portugal in the fall

Fall brings mild and pleasant weather to most of the country. Average daytime temperatures range from 59°F to 73°F (15°C to 23°C), with coastal areas generally warmer than inland regions. 

Lisbon, the capital, experiences average highs of 79°F ( 26°C) in September, dropping to 64°F (18°C) by November. The Algarve in the south remains particularly warm, with temperatures often reaching the mid-70s°F (mid-20s°C) even in October. 

Rainfall increases as the season progresses, with November being the wettest month in many areas. 

While sunny days are still common, especially in early fall, the amount of daylight decreases from about 12 hours in September to 10 hours by late November. 

Looking for more options for a fall vacation? Also check out our list of the best destinations for an unforgettable vacation in October.

Visiting Portugal in winter

Winter is considered the low season, so you'll find that flights and accommodations are at their most affordable. Despite the cooler and wetter weather, this is a great time for a city break.

Even though it's a quieter time to visit, winter is one of the best seasons for enjoying lively festivals and a festive atmosphere. Portugal decks itself out with Christmas markets and vacation decorations that bring a special charm to towns and villages.

When is winter in Portugal?

December, January and February

Events and things to do during winter

While Portugal is often thought of as a summer destination, winter offers its own unique experiences. If you're up for some winter sports, head to Serra da Estrela, the highest mountain range on the mainland, where you'll find the country's only ski resort near Covilhã.

Here are some of the best events in Portugal in winter:

• Christmas Markets: These pop up in major cities like Lisbon and Porto throughout December. Wonderland Lisboa in Eduardo VII Park is a must-visit, with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, and over 100 stalls selling traditional crafts and seasonal treats.
• New Year's Eve Celebrations: Coastal cities and town squares light up with fireworks. Madeira Island is especially famous for its New Year's fireworks, once recognized by Guinness World Records as one of the largest displays. In Lisbon, the main celebration happens at Praça do Comércio, with live music and a stunning fireworks show over the Tagus River at midnight.
• Carnaval: Held in February or early March, Carnaval is celebrated across Portugal with parades and festivities. Loulé in the Algarve is known for its samba-style parades, while Madeira hosts Rio-inspired street parties and parades that last for days.
• Almond Blossom Festival: This festival takes place in the Algarve region in February, celebrating the blooming almond trees with traditional music, dance, and markets featuring local artisans.
• Fantasporto: If you're a film buff, don't miss Fantasporto, an international film festival in Porto held in February and March. It's one of Europe's top fantasy and horror film festivals, hosted at the iconic Rivoli Theater.

Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.

Weather in Portugal in the winter

Winter in Portugal is generally mild compared to much of Europe. Coastal areas see average temperatures between 46°F to 61°F (8°C to 16°C ), while it's a bit cooler inland. Lisbon's temperatures typically range from 46°F to 59°F (8°C to 15°C), with January being the coldest month.

You'll experience more rainfall during the winter months, and daylight hours are shorter, around 9-10 hours a day. While snow is rare, it can be seen in mountainous areas like Serra da Estrela. The Atlantic coast, particularly in the north, can be windy and stormy. Despite the cooler weather, sunny days are still common, especially in the south, making Portugal a great winter escape. The Algarve, in particular, stays the mildest, with daytime highs often reaching 61-68°F (16-20°C).