Best Time To Visit Portugal

Sun-drenched coastal towns, hills wrapped in vineyards, ancient cities, and golden beaches, Portugal is no less than a dream. Knowing the best time to visit Portugal can greatly aid in planning what you want to experience and when you want to experience it.

In this blog guide, we will discuss Portugal's weather on a month-by-month basis, the best seasons to visit, and the optimal months to visit Portugal. We will also discuss the temperature in Portugal, key considerations, and some insider tips that every traveler needs to know, particularly those interested in river cruises through Portugal.

Best Time to Visit Portugal

• Peak Season: July-August
• Off Season: November-February
• Shoulder Season: mid-March to mid-June and September to October

Spring: A Season When Portugal Blooms to life (March-May)

• Temperature in Portugal: Fluctuates between 10°C and 22°C.
• Weather in Portugal: The average temperature in Portugal during this season is around 15°C. It does not rain much in Portugal during this season, and the weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the outdoors or just strolling around the city.
• What Not To Miss: During these months, you will see the whole country dancing to music and enjoying the food festivals as the spring kicks off the carnival season in the country. Do visit the city of Braga during the Holy Week or Semana Santa. If you are a photographer, you will surely love the scene here as the streets are beautifully decorated for the carnival.

This country grandly celebrates Easter, and you would not want to miss the festivities, as good food, wine, music, dance, and absolute fun are waiting for you. Indulge yourself in some amazing outdoor activities like birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the national parks like Serra da Estrela, because during spring, they feel like a white canvas of nature is painted with colorful flowers.

Cities to Explore During Spring

• Porto: Visit historical landmarks, the Douro river, as it is the best time to take a river cruise through Portugal, and the beauty of bridges combined with the skies.
• Lisbon: Visit the colorful buildings, jacaranda trees, and the weather of Lisbon is so surreal that you want to sit in and soak up the sun.
• Madeira: Visit the flower festival and stroll around the lush landscape.
• Algarve: Visit the golden beaches, swim in the crystal-clear water, and explore the city, as it has a lot of unique attractions.
• Things To Keep In Mind: While March to May is a shoulder season, there is approximately a 30% decrease in tourism, which results in affordable tickets and accommodation. Consider carrying a mixed style of clothes, catering to both summer and slightly cold weather. You can also have an umbrella or a raincoat for occasional rain showers if they happen.

Summer: Sea, Sun and Street Life (June-August)

• Temperature in Summer: Portugal's summer temperature fluctuates between 17°C and 29°C.
• Weather in Summer: The average temperature in Portugal remains around 20-22°C; however, in July and August it can be pretty hot as the temperature will reach around 30°C on some days. The weather gets a bit rainier during the summer. Expect the days to be hot and sunny.
• What Not To Miss: Beaches of Portugal during summers are glittering, grab your beach appropriate outfits and swim in the pleasantly cold water, followed by surfing on the waves around the west coast. During the evening, you can go and experience the local towns, music festivals, and other summer celebrations, as Portugal in August is filled with celebrations and events.

Consider going on the wine tours, exploring the vineyard of the Douro Valley, and tasting the traditional regional wine.

Cities to Explore During the Summer

• Algarve: Visit the fantastic beaches, Benagil Caves, and lounge by the sea.
• Sintra: Visit the Quinta da Regaleira, the Moorish castle, and the Pena Palace.
• Azores: Visit the beautiful islands, volcanic landscapes, and the mesmerising coastlines.
• Douro Valley: Cruise around the famous Douro River and go on wine tours.
• You must also visit: Lisbon, Porto, Peneda-Gerês National Park, Évora.
• Things to Keep In Mind: Since the weather is sunny, consider carrying your shades, hat, sunblock, and breezy clothes. However, summer is a holiday season and the peak season to visit Portugal, which can make it a little crowded. Book your accommodation and hotel well in advance, as the prices increase approximately by 25-30%.

Autumn: Paint the Country with Peace and Party (September-October)

• Temperature in Portugal: Fluctuates somewhere between 15°C and 27°C.
• Weather in Portugal: The country is generally mild as the summer heat is now passing away, and the precipitation starts increasing.
• What Not To Miss: You cannot miss anything around festivals, cultural events, and wine tasting. Explore the historic cities and the coastal areas as autumn is considered the surf season.

This season is also the perfect time to visit the famous wineries and grape harvest fields of Portugal. There are also party festivals in Porto happening, where music artists from different genres perform.

Cities To Visit During Autumn

• Douro Valley: Great for vineyards and autumn lights
• Suntra: Great for experiencing forests straight out of a fairytale film
• Alentejo: Presents the most authentic Portuguese countryside.
• Coastal Areas: Great for hiking, surfing, and beach days.
  Note: If you want to explore cities with fewer crowds, consider visiting Lisbon, Porto, and other historical cities.
• Things to Keep In Mind: Among tourists, this season is often seen as the best time to visit Portugal. The weather is pleasant, the temperature of the sea is perfect for swimming, and there is also a significant drop in the ticket fares and accommodation prices. Portugal is going to be rainy, so pack your umbrella, raincoats, and light woollens for chilly nights.

Winter: Calm and Cozy (November-February)

• Temperature in Portugal: Portugal's winter temperature is around 8°C and 15°C.
• Weather in Portugal: The weather remains pleasant as the temperature does not go below 8°C, but as the rain is expected during this season, it can feel a bit chilly.
• What Not To Miss: Explore the historic coastal cities like the Algarve and Lisbon, try their fresh seafood, and stroll around the coast. If you are looking for adventures like skiing or hiking, consider going to the Serra da Estrela mountain. With Christmas approaching, visit towns like Obidos and experience traditional Portuguese celebrations like Bolo Rei (King's Cake) and much more.

As it gets chilly, we advise you to experience the thermal spas of Gerês Thermal Spa. Plan a road trip to the Azores as well.

Cities To Visit During Winters

Apart from the common cities like Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, or the Algarve, you must also visit:

• Óbidos: Great for historical significance and charming streets
• Bragança: Great for the country's historical past.
• Aveiro: Also known as the Venice of Portugal.
• Things to Keep in Mind: Carry your raincoats, umbrellas, and gumboots as you are coming in one of the wettest seasons of all, and make sure to layer yourself well.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the best time to visit Portugal depends on what you wish to do.

Summers are ideal for beach lovers, but if you prefer exploring culture and strolling around the streets, visit in autumn. However, if you wish to travel on a budget, visit around winter, and want the best of all, come in spring. So if you are ready with your itinerary, why wait? Let Visament help you travel smarter and apply for a visa online. Skip the long queues and embassy runs and apply for a Portugal Visa for Indians.