in Portugal: when to go?
méditerranéen climate
Portugal enjoys a mild, sunny Mediterranean climate, particularly pleasant on the Atlantic coast. Three distinct seasons stand out: a humid and cool winter from December to February with temperatures around 10-15°C, ideal spring and autumn from April to June then September-October offering perfect temperatures between 18-25°C, and a hot, dry summer from July to August that can reach 30°C inland. The Atlantic coastline remains temperate year-round thanks to ocean winds. The best periods to discover the country are May-June and September-October: mild temperatures, little rain, smaller crowds and attractive prices. Summer is perfect for beach lovers despite greater tourist influx. Winter, though rainy, allows you to visit Lisbon and Porto in an authentic atmosphere, with the advantage of reduced rates.
- Best period
- April to June, September to October
- Good alternatives
- March, July to August, November
- Rainy winter
- December to February
Year-round overview
Select a month to plan your trip
Climate in numbers
Monthly temperatures and precipitation
Temperature (°C)
Precipitation (mm)
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Climate zones
Climate varies by region. Discover the unique characteristics of each zone.
General climate Portugal
IdealMediterranean climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, characterized by dry, hot summers and mild, humid winters. Inlan...
Porto and the North
IdealLisbon and its surroundings
IdealHistoric center
IdealAlentejo
FavorableAlgarve
IdealMonth by month
Find detailed climate information for each month of the year.
Temperature
5° — 16°C
Precipitation
106 mm
Average temperature
1.9°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Wettest season. Ideal for visiting museums and discovering the winter atmosphere of cities.
Temperature
6° — 17°C
Precipitation
88 mm
Average temperature
2.1°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Still fresh and rainy but conditions improving. A great time for carnival enthusiasts.
Temperature
7° — 19°C
Precipitation
72 mm
Average temperature
2.4°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Transition to fine weather. Vegetation turning green again, first pleasant outdoor terraces.
Temperature
9° — 21°C
Precipitation
58 mm
Average temperature
2.8°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Excellent time to visit, pleasant temperatures and decreasing rainfall. Ideal for hiking.
Temperature
11° — 25°C
Precipitation
43 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
One of the best times of year. Perfect temperatures, minimal rainfall, and nature in bloom.
Temperature
14° — 30°C
Precipitation
21 mm
Average temperature
3.7°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Ideal conditions before the intense heat. Perfect for combining cultural visits and beach.
Temperature
16° — 34°C
Precipitation
8 mm
Average temperature
4.1°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Peak summer with high tourist crowds. Excellent for the beach, hot for city sightseeing.
Temperature
16° — 34°C
Precipitation
10 mm
Average temperature
4.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Hottest month with peak tourist season. Prioritize seaside activities.
Temperature
14° — 29°C
Precipitation
33 mm
Average temperature
3.8°C
Rating
Ideal
By climate zone
Excellent post-summer period. Sea still warm, mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Temperature
11° — 23°C
Precipitation
78 mm
Average temperature
3.2°C
Rating
Good
By climate zone
Return of rains but still pleasant conditions. Perfect for discovering the inland regions.
Temperature
8° — 19°C
Precipitation
108 mm
Average temperature
2.5°C
Rating
Fair
By climate zone
Notable cooling with frequent rainfall. Good for visiting cities while avoiding outdoor activities.
Temperature
5° — 17°C
Precipitation
116 mm
Average temperature
2°C
Rating
Average
By climate zone
Beginning of the rainy season with cooler temperatures. Authentic Christmas atmosphere but unpredictable weather.
Frequently asked questions
Everything about the climate and the best time to visit in Portugal
The best months to visit in Portugal are April, May, June, September, October. This period offers favourable weather and ideal conditions for exploring the country at its best.
The Mediterranean climate of Portugal is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The average annual temperature is 16.5°C. It's one of the most pleasant climates in the world, ideal for cultural travel.
Rainfall in Portugal is mainly concentrated between December, January, February. These showers remain generally moderate, alternating with sunny days. This period is ideal for cultural tourism without crowds.
Yes, swimming is pleasant from April, May, June, September, October. The sea stays warm until autumn. Peak summer months are ideal for beaches, while spring and autumn are best for hiking and cultural experiences.
Spring and autumn (April, May, June, September, October) are perfect for vineyard visits, local markets and fine dining. Harvest season (September-October) offers an unparalleled wine tourism experience.
If your travel dates don't match the ideal season in in Portugal, the Nomadays network brings together more than 100 local agencies worldwide. Get in touch to find out which destination would be ideal for your dates.
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