Best Time to Visit Portugal

Portugal is a country full of charm — with golden beaches, rolling vineyards, historic cities, and a warm, welcoming culture. From the cobbled streets of Lisbon and Porto’s riverfront views to the Algarve’s dramatic coastline, every season offers something special. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time to visit Portugal for your ideal trip.

Portugal by Season: A Complete Guide

🌸 Spring (March – May): Sunshine, Flowers, and Festivals

Spring is one of the most pleasant times to visit Portugal. The weather is mild, the countryside is in full bloom, and the tourist crowds haven’t yet arrived. It’s perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and enjoying local festivals in comfortable temperatures.

• Highlights: Mild temperatures (15–25°C), ideal for exploring Lisbon, Porto, and the Douro Valley, Easter celebrations and the Lisbon Fish and Flower Festivals, lower prices and fewer tourists.

☀️ Summer (June – August): Beaches, Sunshine, and Lively Nights

Summer is the high season in Portugal, offering long sunny days, warm seas, and a lively atmosphere. The Algarve, Madeira, and the Azores are particularly popular, while Lisbon and Porto host outdoor concerts and festivals throughout the season.

• Highlights: Hot temperatures (25–35°C in southern regions), perfect for beach holidays and water sports, popular events like the Lisbon Festas de Santo António and NOS Alive Festival, busy tourist areas and higher accommodation costs.

🍂 Autumn (September – November): Wine, Warmth, and Relaxation

Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Portugal, with warm weather lingering well into October. It’s harvest season in the wine regions, and the beaches are much quieter. The sea remains warm, and cities are more relaxed after the summer crowds.

• Highlights: Pleasant temperatures (20–30°C in September, cooler later), best time for wine tours in the Douro Valley, fewer tourists and good travel deals, calm seas and beautiful golden landscapes.

❄️ Winter (December – February): Mild Weather and Local Charm

Winter in Portugal is mild compared to most of Europe, making it a great destination for an off-season escape. While the north can be cool and rainy, the south — especially the Algarve — enjoys plenty of sunshine. It’s also the perfect time for city breaks without the crowds.

• Highlights: Cool to mild temperatures (10–18°C), great for exploring Lisbon, Porto, and coastal towns, lower prices and fewer tourists, Christmas lights, markets, and traditional food festivals.

From the vineyards of the Douro Valley to the cliffs of the Algarve and the charm of Lisbon’s old quarters, Portugal is a destination that truly shines all year round. With its mild climate and friendly atmosphere, there’s never a bad time to visit — just different kinds of magic to discover.

Top Travel Tips for Portugal

• Visa & Entry: Portugal is part of the EU's Schengen Area. US, UK, Canadian, and Australian citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. You just need a valid passport.
• Currency: The official currency is the **Euro (EUR)**. While credit cards are widely accepted, always have some cash on hand for small cafes, taxis, and local markets.
• Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, 5-10% is a polite gesture for good service. In cafes, rounding up the bill is common. For taxis, rounding up to the nearest Euro is sufficient.
• The *Couvert* (Important!): When you sit down at a restaurant, bread, olives, butter, and/or pâté may be brought to your table. These are **not free**. If you eat them, you will be charged. If you don't want them, politely refuse ("Não, obrigado/obrigada") and the waiter will take them away.
• Common Scams: Be very aware of pickpockets, especially on Lisbon's popular Tram 28 and in crowded areas. In Lisbon's Baixa district, you may be approached by people whispering "hashish, cocaine"; they are usually selling crushed bay leaves or wax and are best ignored.
• Footwear: Portugal's beautiful cobblestone streets (*calçada portuguesa*) are uneven and can be very slippery when wet. Leave the high heels at home and bring comfortable shoes with good grip.

Things to do in Portugal

Explore the historic castles of Sintra, listen to soulful Fado music in Lisbon, or relax on the stunning beaches of the Algarve. Book your tours and activities easily via our trusted partners: