Weather in Portugal in August

With its warm weather and stunning coastline, Portugal in August is for many a favorite destination — and for good reason. With fantastic weather and plenty of events, this month is known for drawing in crowds. Here's our guide to the weather in Portugal in August.

The weather in Portugal in August at a glance

• August in Portugal tends to be hot and dry, with some areas seeing particularly high temperatures.
• Temperatures usually range from 68°F to 95°F (20°C to 35°C), and the Alentejo and Algarve regions are typically the warmest.
• Since it's the peak tourist season, expect busy beaches, crowded tourist attractions, and a lively nightlife scene. It's a good time if you want an energetic atmosphere but be prepared for the crowds.

What is the weather like in Portugal in August?

If you’re heading to Portugal in August, expect hot days, plenty of sunshine, and barely any rain. It’s right in the middle of summer, so the weather is dry and warm across most of the country, especially in the south.

This kind of weather makes it a good time for beach days, swimming, and being outside in general. Just be prepared for the heat!

Rain is rare in August. On average, you might see less than 10mm the whole month, and many days are completely dry. So if you’re after warm, dry weather with clear skies, August is a pretty dependable time to go. Make sure to book in advance. This is the busy season—especially in popular beach areas— so you’ll want to plan ahead if you want to avoid last-minute stress.

Average temperatures in August

August in Portugal is hot and dry pretty much across the board. It’s the height of summer, so beach towns are busy, and the inland regions can get especially warm. Daytime temperatures usually land between 85°F and 95°F (29°C to 35°C). Nights stay warm too, often hovering around 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C), depending on the region. It’s the peak of summer, so the days are long—sunset isn’t until around 8:30pm. The sea temperature is usually around 72°F (22°C), warm enough for swimming without a wetsuit. Coastal areas feel more comfortable thanks to the breeze, while inland regions can feel much hotter during the day.

Porto and northern Portugal

In the north, including Porto and Braga, August is warm but not extreme. Highs usually reach 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C), with nighttime temperatures dipping to around 63°F to 66°F (17°C to 19°C). It’s much cooler than the interior or south, and the breeze from the Atlantic helps keep things fresh. Rainfall is rare, so it’s a good time for hiking, sightseeing, or just spending time outside without needing to dodge showers (see our guide to hiking in Portugal).

Lisbon and central Portugal

In Lisbon and central areas, August is reliably hot and dry. Daytime temps usually land around 85°F to 90°F (29°C to 32°C), and nights hold steady between 68°F and 72°F (20°C to 22°C). The weather’s dependable—good for beach trips or full days out around the city. Sea temperatures here tend to be a little warmer than up north, around 70°F to 72°F (21°C to 22°C), which is comfortable for swimming. The city stays active well into the evening and it's a great time for a Lisbon city break.

The Algarve and southern Portugal

The Algarve sees some of the hottest temperatures in the country during August. Highs often reach 90°F to 95°F (32°C to 35°C), and nights usually stay around 72°F to 75°F (22°C to 24°C). It’s very dry, and you’ll likely have clear skies the whole time. The sea is warm here too—around 72°F to 73°F (22°C to 23°C)—so it’s a good time for swimming or water sports. Just be ready for the midday sun and expect busier beaches and towns.

Madeira

Madeira’s weather in August is milder than mainland Portugal but still summery. Daytime highs usually range from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C), and nights stay around 72°F to 75°F (22°C to 24°C). The sea sits at around 74°F (23°C), which feels nice for swimming. Rain is unlikely, and the air tends to stay fresh thanks to the island’s location and elevation. It’s a good time to hike.
 

Is August a good time to visit Portugal?

August is peak summer in Portugal, so you can expect hot weather, busy streets, and lots going on. If you're planning to spend most of your time by the sea, this is when the coast is at its warmest. Beach towns are buzzing, the water's great for swimming. These spots do get crowded, but it can be a nice trip to take—especially if you like people-watching.

If you're more planning a trip to see nature or looking to escape the heat, inland areas like Serra da Estrela or Peneda-Gerês National Park are worth considering. They’re quieter, cooler, and good for hiking or just getting out into the fresh air.

One thing to keep in mind: it gets really hot, especially in central and southern Portugal. Lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and a good hat will go a long way.

What about crowds and costs?

August is one of the busiest months to visit Portugal. Schools are out, the weather’s consistently sunny, and both locals and international tourists are making the most of it. Beaches, city centers, and major attractions can get packed—especially midday. Lines are common.

Prices also go up across the board. Flights, hotels, and rental cars tend to cost more, and you might notice higher rates for tours or other activities. If you’re planning a trip in August, it’s worth reservation accommodation and key activities ahead of time to lock things in and avoid surprises.

To avoid the thickest crowds and hottest hours, plan your outings early in the morning or later in the evening. If you’d prefer a more relaxed pace and still want warm weather, consider late June or early September. Things are a little quieter, but you’ll still get beach days and long evenings without the full August rush.
 

Where to go in Portugal in August

August is a good month for swimming, seafood, and longer evenings. Here are some of our favorite places to check out this month. If you're thinking about where else to go, our guide to the best places to visit in Portugal has some useful ideas.

Azores

The Azores stay pretty mild in August, which makes them a good option if mainland temperatures feel too intense. This is one of the best months to spot whales and dolphins around the islands—especially sperm whales and Atlantic spotted dolphins. Boat tours run regularly, and the ocean views are hard to beat. On land, you can walk through volcanic craters, soak in thermal springs, and visit small villages 

Peneda-Gerês National Park

If you’re hoping to hike, Peneda-Gerês in the north is a solid escape from the summer heat. It’s usually a few degrees cooler up there, and the terrain is great for hiking—especially through shaded areas like the old oak forest at Mata da Albergaria. There are natural swimming places like Cascata do Arado, which are great for cooling off. The villages in the park are quiet and traditional, with granite houses and local cafes where you can stop and catch your breath. It’s an great place to slow down and spend a few days outdoors.

Porto

Porto stays more comfortable in August than Lisbon, thanks to the Atlantic breeze. The city feels relaxed but busy in a good way—especially along the riverfront in Ribeira, where there’s outdoor seating everywhere. If you need a break from the sun, the port wine cellars are cool (literally and figuratively) and give you a reason to duck inside for a bit. August is also when a lot of events pop up— a favorite is Feira Popular, with music and food in the city’s parks. If you want to get out of town for a few hours, evening boat trips on the Douro are easy to catch. See our guide to how many days you need in Porto. 
 

What to do in Portugal in August

August in Portugal can be busy, especially along the coast, but it’s also when the country really leans into local traditions. You’ll find festivals happening all over—some tied to religious events, others to folklore or local history. There’s usually music, food, parades, and plenty of people out enjoying the warm evenings.  For more ideas, see our guide to undiscovered Portugal off the tourist trail.

Explore the caves of Grutas de Mira de Aire

Grutas de Mira de Aire is the biggest cave system in Portugal and a good way to cool off during the hottest part of summer. It’s located in the hills of central Portugal and stays at a steady 63°F (17°C) year-round. A guided tour takes you through a series of dramatic limestone chambers, some with subway lakes and towering formations that have been forming for millions of years. The path goes down about 360 feet (110 meters), but it’s an easy walk with stairs and railings. Above ground, there’s a park with pools and picnic areas, so it’s a nice spot to spend the afternoon

Festival of the Iberian Mask

This is one of those regional festivals that really sticks with you. Held in places like Bragança in northeastern Portugal, the Festival of the Iberian Mask is centered around old folklore and traditional masks from both Portugal and Spain. A lot of the characters go way back—some even pre-Christian—and they represent everything from seasonal change to mythical struggles. You’ll see parades, theatrical performances, and local artisans working with wood, leather, and textiles to make the masks. 

Medieval fairs

During August, some Portuguese towns turn into medieval set pieces, complete with knights, musicians, and old-school market stalls. One of the most well-known happens in Óbidos, where the cobbled streets fill with costumed performers, fire dancers, and vendors selling roasted meats, local drinks, and handmade goods. Silves also gets into it, with its medieval fair unfolding below the town’s Moorish castle. These events usually start later in the day and go into the night, which helps avoid the worst of the heat—and it’s just a fun way to spend an evening. This is a great thing to do when on a trip to Portugal with kids.
 

Plan your trip to Portugal in August

We'll end this article with some Portugal travel tips to help you plan your summer trip:

What to pack

August is hot and busy. Lightweight, breathable clothes are essential, especially ones that dry quickly or help with sweating. Bring a couple of swimsuits and your go-to beach stuff: a towel that packs down small, flip-flops or slides, and maybe a tote for sunscreen and snacks. 

If you’re planning beach time around the western Algarve or heading to the Berlengas, bring shoes that can get wet. Sun protection really matters this month, so bring strong SPF, solid sunglasses, and a hat that actually shades your face. A handheld fan can be surprisingly helpful in Lisbon or Porto’s older neighborhoods, where heat tends to stick around. In inland areas like Bragança or Vila Real, lightweight long sleeves and pants can actually help keep you cooler while protecting your skin.

Planning your itinerary

If you’re thinking about visiting Portugal in August, a sample guide can help you plan your days. Here’ are great example Portugal itineraries to look over as a starting point: 

• Portugal itinerary 5 days Spend 2 days in Lisbon, exploring Alfama, Belém, and Baixa. Then head to Porto for 3 days to check out Ribeira, visit wine cellars, and cruise along the Douro River.
• Portugal itinerary 7 days: From Foz do Minho to Nazaré, Caparica, Galapos, Comporta, and the Algarve beaches, you’ll explore the coast from north to south.
• Portugal itinerary 10 days: A 10-day route through Lagos, Évora, Elvas, Lisbon, Coimbra, Serra da Estrela, Porto, and Peneda-Gerês National Park.
   

When to book

August is the busiest month of the year. Around the 15th (Assumption Day), it’s basically wall-to-wall tourists—locals and visitors alike. Coastal towns are at full capacity, and even the quieter inland regions like Trás-os-Montes get a noticeable bump in visitors. If you're traveling with a group or need a family-sized place, book at least 5–6 months ahead—those get scooped up fast. You’ll also want to make dinner reservations early, even in small towns. And if you’re eyeing beach clubs or water activities, lock those in before you arrive. To avoid crowds, go early—especially for the big tourist attractions. Even train and bus tickets between cities can sell out this month, so don’t fender it

Emergency weather information

August is usually the hottest month of the year in Portugal, and with that comes a higher risk of wildfires and heat-related alerts. Light, UV-protective clothing and a neck-cooling towel can help on hot days. It's also a good idea to have the IPMA and ProCiv apps on your phone for local updates. Emergency help is always available at 112, and there’s also a tourist line you can call at 808 781 212. If you're on the road, consider checking alternate routes through dry regions. After long hot spells, coastal areas may have stronger currents, so just take extra care when swimming. 

For a perfect trip to Portugal, check out our guide on how to plan a trip to Portugal, full of tips on where to go, what to do, and more, or find more inspiration in our Portugal travel guide and Portugal trips.