Weather in Portugal in April

The weather in Portugal in April at a glance

• April brings mild temperatures, ranging from 54°F to 70°F (12°C to 21°C).
• As the month progresses, warmer days become more frequent, especially towards the end.
• April is considered the shoulder season for tourism in Portugal, so you'll experience moderate to low crowds.
• It’s a beautiful time for outdoor activities, with blooming flowers, lush landscapes, and cultural events taking place across the country.

What is the weather like in Portugal in April?

April in Portugal feels like spring is finally settling in. Days are getting longer, temperatures are warming up, and there’s usually a good amount of sunshine to go around. You might still run into a few showers—especially in the north—but it’s generally drier than the winter months.

If you're planning to hike or spend time at the beach, it’s worth keeping an eye on the forecast. Rain can pass through quickly, but it can make trails slippery and country roads a bit tricky. 

Tourism starts to pick up in April, but it’s still far from crowded. In general, April is a good time to explore Portugal—mild weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of chances to be outside.

Average temperatures in April

It’s spring across the country, so you’ll get milder days, longer daylight hours, and a noticeable shift from winter’s chill. Daytime temperatures usually land between 60°F (16°C) and 70°F (21°C), with some inland areas creeping up to the mid-70s°F (24°C). Nights cool down to somewhere between 45°F (7°C) and 55°F (13°C), so it’s worth packing layers, especially if you’ll be out after dark.

The weather tends to be mild but changeable—sunny spells mixed with the occasional shower, especially in the north. Sea temperatures on the mainland hover around 60°F (16°C), which can be brisk for swimming, but still doable if you don’t mind the cold.

Porto and northern Portugal

In the north, including Porto, things stay cooler and a bit wetter. Daytime highs tend to reach the low 60s°F (16°C), while nights can dip into the mid-40s°F (7°C).

You’ll still see a fair amount of rain in April, but it’s less intense than in winter. When the sun does come out, it’s a good time to explore cities or get out into the countryside before the summer crowds. See our guide to how many days you need in Porto. 

Lisbon and central Portugal

Lisbon and the central region start to feel more comfortable this time of year. Average highs usually sit in the upper 60s°F (20°C), and nights drop to the low 50s°F (10–12°C). There’s less rain than up north, and it’s often dry enough to spend most of your time outdoors. You might even get a few days that feel like early summer, especially inland, but the weather is still generally spring-like. The city stays active well into the evening and it's a great time for a Lisbon city break.

The Algarve and southern Portugal

Down in the Algarve, April is usually dry and a little warmer. Highs often reach the low 70s°F (21–22°C), and overnight temperatures stay around the mid-50s°F (12–13°C). It’s still early in the beach season, but some people do head to the coast for sunbathing or a quick dip, even if the water’s still on the cooler side. With fewer crowds and plenty of daylight, it’s a nice time to explore the region’s smaller towns

Madeira

Madeira stays mild in April, with daytime highs around 70°F (21°C) and nights rarely falling below 60°F (16°C). Rain is possible but usually passes quickly. The island’s sea temperature is around 66°F (19°C), which makes swimming a bit more comfortable here than on the mainland.

Is April a good time to visit Portugal?

April’s a fantastic time to be in Portugal. The weather’s generally mild, everything’s starting to bloom, and there’s more happening than in the quieter winter months. It’s spring, so you’ll see flowers in parks and vineyards, and the days are long enough to pack in a good amount of exploring.

It’s a good time for outdoor plans—whether that’s hiking in the Douro Valley (see our guide to hiking in Portugal), walking coastal trails in the Algarve, or just spending time in the city without the summer heat. The beaches are nice for a stroll or a picnic.

If you like a more relaxed pace but still want decent weather, April check marks a lot of boxes. Just bring layers and be ready for some passing rain, especially in the north.

What about crowds and costs?

You’ll start to see more tourists in April, especially around Easter. It’s not as busy as summer, but Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve do get livelier. That said, it’s still easy to find quieter corners, especially if you head inland or check out smaller towns.

Prices for accommodation and transport tend to climb a bit compared to winter, but they’re still lower than in July or August. April sits in that middle ground where things are picking up, but you’re not dealing with peak season crowds or rates.

If you’d prefer to skip the Easter bump but still want mild weather, early October or late September can be a good alternative—they have similar temps and fewer visitors.
 

Where to go in Portugal in April

April brings in the green. Trees are full again, flowers are out, and things feel like they’re shifting into spring. Here’s some of the places you will want to visit in April.  If you want more travel ideas, have a look at our guide to the best places to visit in Portugal.

Lisbon

Lisbon feels comfortable in April. The days are warming up, but it’s not too hot to walk around, and the city hasn’t hit peak tourism yet. The Peixe em Lisboa food festival usually happens this month—worth checking out if you like seafood or just want to try some local dishes. Alfama is a great neighborhood to wander, especially when it’s not packed. You can head up to São Jorge Castle for the views—there’s usually a nice breeze, so it’s a good time to go. If you’re craving a beach walk, hop on the train to Cascais. It’s not quite swimming season yet, but the coastline’s still a nice break from the city.

Óbidos

Óbidos is a small medieval town that feels especially active in April. Semana Santa brings religious processions through the streets, and locals decorate their houses with flowers and colorful cloths. Not long after, the Chocolate Festival rolls in. It’s easygoing—mostly stalls, sculptures, and a lot of candy.

 You don’t need a packed schedule here. Walk the castle walls, check out the stores, grab a cherry liqueur in a chocolate cup. The weather’s usually right in that comfortable middle zone, and the countryside nearby starts filling up with wildflowers. It’s worth driving or walking a bit outside the main village if you have the time. This is a great base when on a trip to Portugal with kids.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

April is a great month to see Ria Formosa. This lagoon system runs along the Algarve and draws a lot of migratory birds in spring—flamingos, storks, and others you might not expect. There’s a mix of trails and water routes, and the weather’s usually good for both. You can rent a kayak or just stick to walking paths and take your time. The beaches nearby are still pretty empty in April. The water’s cool, but not freezing, and some people do swim. You might also spot local shellfish harvesters out working the mudflats. It’s a calm place, easy to spend a day or two.

What to do in Portugal in April

April’s a great time to be in Portugal. It’s not too busy yet, so it’s easier to explore without long lines or packed beaches. Spring’s in full swing, so everything’s green and blooming, especially in the Douro Valley and the Algarve. Around Easter, you’ll find local traditions popping up—processions, decorations, and seasonal candy that are only around for a short time. For more ideas, see our guide to undiscovered Portugal off the tourist trail.

Golfing in the Algarve

April’s one of the more comfortable months to golf in the Algarve. The temperatures stay in a good range so you’re not rushing to finish before the heat sets in. Courses like Monte Rei or Vale do Lobo are open as usual, and it’s a bit easier to get a tee time or enjoy the game without waiting. Since the courses are near the coast or nature reserves, you might catch some interesting birds or views while you play. And when you’re done, there are plenty of quiet spots to sit outside with a drink and relax without it feeling too busy.

Cycling

If you’re planning on cycling, this is one of the better months to do it—before the summer heat hits but after the winter chill has passed. Porto has apartment, scenic bike paths along the river, and you can stop at cafés or wine cellars along the way. For something a little more active, the Douro Valley’s hills and vineyard roads are worth the effort—tough climbs, but great views at the top. April usually brings a mix of sunshine and light rain, which helps keep the trails clean and brings out all the spring colors. The coastal EuroVelo 1 route is another nice ride this time of year—it’s quieter, with plenty of sea views and long stretches without traffic.

Caving and exploring limestone caves

Portugal’s southern coast has some interesting cave systems, and April is a nice time to check them out. It’s not too hot, and you’ll avoid the big summer crowds. The Benagil Cave is the most well-known—you can reach it by boat or kayak—and if you go early in the day, it can be surprisingly quiet. In Carvoeiro, the rock paths and grottos around Algar Seco are also worth a visit. It’s much easier to explore when it’s not sweltering outside. If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, the Grutas de Mira de Aire (Portugal’s largest caves) are a good inland day trip.
 

Plan your trip to Portugal in April

Finally, we'll finish this article with some Portugal travel tips to help you plan your trip:

What to pack

April feels like proper spring—everything’s greener, flowers are blooming, and the days are noticeably longer. Stick with light layers like cotton tops, cardigans, and a rain jacket just in case. If you’re heading to the Alentejo, hiking shoes are a good call—this is a great time to explore the region’s rolling hills. UV levels start to climb now, so don’t skip the sunscreen. Sunglasses and a light hat will help too, especially along the coast. Evenings can still get chilly, so bring a lightweight scarf and something warm enough for sitting outside at dinner or checking out Easter events in towns like Óbidos or Braga

Planning your itinerary

If you’re heading to Portugal in April, a sample Portugal itinerary can be a good jumping-off point and take some of the stress out of planning. Here are some guides:

• Itinerary 5 days in Portugal: Spend your first 2 days in Lisbon, exploring Alfama, Belém, and Baixa. Afterward, head to Porto for 3 days to see Ribeira, visit wine cellars, and take a river cruise.
• Itinerary 7 days in Portugal: This itinerary covers Foz do Minho, Nazaré, Caparica, Galapos, and Comporta, finishing up in the Algarve.
• Itinerary 10 days in Portugal: Over two weeks, experience Lagos, Évora, Elvas, Lisbon, Coimbra, Serra da Estrela, Porto, and Peneda-Gerês National Park.

When to book

Easter weekend gets busy and more expensive, especially in the cities, so be sure to book as far in advance as possible if this is when you plan to go. But if you avoid those dates, it’s generally good value. Lisbon does get more visitors around Holy Week, so it’s worth reservation restaurants if you’re going out. The Algarve sees its first round of beach days, but it’s still calm compared to summer. If you're interested in Fado performances or surf lessons, reservation 1–2 weeks in advance is usually enough. 

Freedom Day (April 25) can lead to some limited availability, especially in bigger cities. For boutique stays, aim to book 2–3 months ahead. Chain hotels are usually easier to find outside the Easter rush.

Emergency weather information

Spring storms sometimes pop up in April, especially in northern and central Portugal. Packing layers and a waterproof phone case is a good call. For updates, check the IPMA site or listen to stations like RFM or Antena 1. In an emergency, call 112 or reach the tourist police at +351 213 421 634. Public places like shopping centers, churches, and municipal buildings can be used for shelter if needed.

After storms, some old town streets can get pretty slippery, and public transport might run behind schedule—just something to keep in mind.

Make the most of your trip to Portugal with our guide on how to plan a trip to Portugal, complete with top destinations, activities, and more, or dive into our Portugal travel guide and tailored Portugal trips.