Best Time to Visit Portugal: Weather, Festivals, Travel Tips by Season
Portugal is a year-round destination, but when you go can make a big difference in what you experience. From sunny beach days to quiet historic towns, each season offers something unique. So, when is the best time to visit Portugal? It depends on your travel style.
In this guide, we break down what each season brings, from weather and festivals to crowds and prices, so you can choose the perfect moment for your trip.
🌸 Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the most balanced seasons to visit Portugal. The days get longer, flowers bloom everywhere, and the temperatures are mild without being too hot.
Great for: Outdoor exploring, gardens, walking tours, cities like Lisbon, Sintra or Évora.
Events:
Semana Santa (Easter traditions, especially in Braga)
Festa das Flores in Madeira
Blooming jacarandas in Lisbon (late May)
Travel tip: Tourist numbers are still low in March and April. It’s the sweet spot for avoiding crowds while enjoying good weather.
☀️ Summer (June to August)
Summer is peak season in Portugal and with reason. The skies are blue, beaches are at their best, and festivals happen all over the country.
Great for: Beach holidays, nightlife, coastal towns, festivals, island adventures (Azores and Madeira).
Events:
Santos Populares (Lisbon, Porto and others in June)
Music Festivals such as NOS Alive
Traditional village festivals inland
Travel tip: Book accommodation and experiences well in advance. If visiting Sintra or Lisbon in July or August, start your day early to avoid the heat and the crowds.
🍂 Autumn (September to November)
Autumn brings a golden light, calm weather and fewer tourists. It’s harvest season, which means great wine and food experiences.
Great for: Wine regions like Douro and Alentejo, hiking, cultural cities, photography.
Events:
Grape harvest (Vindimas) in September
Chestnut festivals in November
Lisbon’s DocLisboa film festival
Travel tip: September still feels like summer, especially in the south. November may bring rain, but it’s perfect for cozy cafés, museums and food tours.
❄️ Winter (December to February)
Winter is Portugal’s low season, except for Christmas and New Year. While the mountains may get snow, the coast stays mild compared to northern Europe.
Great for: Cultural trips, museum visits, relaxing city breaks, romantic getaways.
Events:
Christmas lights and markets (Lisbon, Porto, Óbidos)
New Year’s Eve in Funchal (huge fireworks show)
Carnival (February, especially in Torres Vedras and Madeira)
Travel tip: Prices drop, especially for flights and hotels. Just check monument schedules in smaller towns, some close earlier in winter.
✨ Final Thoughts
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the best time to visit Portugal, it depends on what kind of trip you want.
Long beach days and parties? Go in summer. Culture, comfort and fewer crowds? Spring or autumn. Great deals and peace? Winter is ideal.
No matter the season, Portugal has a way of making you feel at home.
👉 Explore our tours and experiences available all year round
