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When Is the Best Time to Visit Portugal?
The best time to visit Portugal is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and sunny, with fewer crowds and lower prices than during the peak summer season.
Here are some of the benefits of visiting Portugal during the shoulder seasons:
- Mild weather: Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The shoulder seasons offer pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for sightseeing, exploring, and enjoying the outdoors.
- Smaller crowds: The shoulder seasons are less crowded than the peak summer season, so you’ll be able to enjoy Portugal’s popular tourist attractions without having to deal with large crowds. This is especially important if you’re visiting popular destinations like the Algarve beaches, the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, and the Pena Palace in Sintra.
- Lower prices: Prices for flights, accommodation, and activities are generally lower during the shoulder seasons than during the peak summer season. This means you can save money on your trip without having to sacrifice quality.
Here are some specific examples of how you can enjoy the most of Portugal during the shoulder seasons:
- Spring (April to June): The weather in spring is typically sunny and mild, with occasional showers. This is a great time to visit for exploring the Algarve beaches, visiting the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon, and attending the Festa de São João in Porto.
- Autumn (September to October): The weather in autumn is also typically sunny and mild, with occasional showers. This is a great time to visit for seeing the fall foliage in the Douro Valley, visiting the Pena Palace in Sintra, and attending the Lisbon Harvest Festival.
While there are many great times to visit Portugal, if you’re looking for the best weather and the most opportunities to enjoy the country’s outdoor activities, then we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn.
Average Temperatures by Month
|
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
| Fahrenheit |
58°
|
59°
|
63°
|
65°
|
68°
|
74°
|
79°
|
80°
|
77°
|
71°
|
64°
|
60°
|
| Celsius |
14°
|
15°
|
17°
|
18°
|
20°
|
24°
|
26°
|
27°
|
25°
|
22°
|
18°
|
16°
|
Climate in Portugal
Summer Season in Portugal
Portuguese summers are hot and dry, especially in the southern and inland regions, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). The coastal areas, influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, are cooler and more temperate. Summer is characterized by long days of sunshine, making it ideal for beach holidays, exploring the countryside, and enjoying outdoor cultural festivals. The warm and dry conditions are typical of the Mediterranean climate, providing excellent opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities.
Rainy Season in Portugal
The rainy season in Portugal brings most of the country's annual rainfall, particularly important in the northern regions. The rain usually comes in the form of moderate showers and is interspersed with sunny periods. This season sees cooler temperatures compared to summer, providing a break from the high heat and a greener landscape, especially in the north.
Winter Season in Portugal
Portugal's winter season, from December to February, is mild with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 59°F. This period is less crowded, and it's ideal for exploring historic sites, enjoying the country's cultural heritage, and taking in the pleasant winter climate, especially in the southern regions.
Our Recommendations
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