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What's the Best Time to Visit Portugal?

You’ve heard me rave before about the gem that is Portugal. Great food, richer history than typical textbooks, vibrant festivals – it’s a destination that truly has it all. But like anywhere, timing is key for an ideal trip.So, what’s the best time to visit Portugal?

Well, as many would agree, Portugal is best enjoyed between June and October. But if you’re looking to save, maybe try November through February when prices are lower without the summer madness.

And if crowds stress you out, March through May is when you’ll have beautiful sights like Lisbon and Porto’s old streets all to yourself. Let’s break it all down to help you figure out when you should pack those bags.

The Overall Best Time to Visit Portugal

No doubt about it, the peak months for your Portugal trip are between June and early October. The sunny skies and mild temperature make it pure bliss for wandering around ancient ruins, soaking up the beaches, and noshing on pastéis de nata without breaking a sweat. Don’t get me wrong, it’s lovely year-round, but these months truly cannot be beat. Here’s the overall idea:

Choosing the Best Time for Your Visit

Now, if crowds aren’t your thing, I’d lean toward June and July for slightly less traffic. But August through October still deliver plenty of warmth without requiring parkas. Just be warned, the end of summer can book up faster.

Weather Overview: June to October

Well, this time around in Portugal, it’s hot but not disgusting down south, while further north, you can expect slightly cooler temperatures. We’re talking mid-70s (F) on average, with barely a drop of rain to be found. Perfect alfresco weather, if you ask me!

Here’s a quick breakdown:

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Month

Temperature (°F)

Rainy Days

June

72-79 (°C 22-26)

1-5

July

75-83 (°C 24-28)

1-2

August

75-83 (°C 24-28)

1-3

September

73-79 (°C 23-26)

2-6

October

63-73 (°C 17-23)

5-11



Cost of Visiting Portugal in Peak Months

Now remember how everyone always says summer in Europe will drain your bank? Well, turns out Portugal ain’t too bad if you play your cards right. June, September and October especially can be real steals. 

We’re talking barely over a hundred bucks per night and airfare low enough to still save for caipirinhas. Take a look at what I got from Skyscanner and Google Hotels:

Month

Hotel (USD/night)

Flight

June

$112 (€102)

$493 (€453)

July

$122 (€112)

$598 (€547)

August

$127 (€116)

$533 (€487)

September

$122 (€112)

$455 (€417)

October

$99 (€91)

$422 (€387)

 

As you can see, July and August might jump a twenty here and there due to all the other zonked tourists, but nothing too out of hand.

Portugal's Vibrant Festival Season through the Peak Months

And if you think the savings are sweet, just wait til you check out the crazy good parties happening practically every weekend from May through September.

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June Festivals

  • Santo Antonio Festival (Lisbon): The whole city goes all out celebrating for a full month
  • Rock in Rio Lisboa: World-famous acts at this huge music fest
  • Festa de São João (Porto): A Midsummer festival honoring St. John the Baptist

July Festivals

  • Festa de São João (Porto): Partying for Saint John plus fireworks and competitions
  • Festa dos Tabuleiros (Tomar): Parade celebrating traditions held every 4 years

August/September Festivals

  • Feira de São Mateus (Viseu): Month-long fest with rides, concerts, food and sports

October Pilgrimage

  • Peregrinação de Fátima: Major religious event at the site of reported visions

With all these fantastic festivals all spring and summer, plus better prices starting and ending the season, those months really can’t be beat for budget travel and serious celebrating.

What is the Cheapest Time to Visit Portugal?

The cheapest time to visit Portugal is from November through February. During these months, when it’s cloudy and wet, not many people will be hitting the beaches or trails. That’s why places drop their prices to attract travelers like you and me. Hotels and flights become way more wallet-friendly during these months.

Winter Weather and Reduced Tourism Demand

Now, I won’t lie—it can get pretty dreary with rain and highs of just around 50 degrees Fahrenheit on average—not exactly beach weather! 

Sightseeing may require a jacket, and bringing an umbrella is a must. But it’s never too icy, at least.

  • November – Low 60s with rainfall on some days
  • December – around 50 degrees with more rain
  • January – Similar to December; could be drizzly
  • February – Temperature and showers improve slightly
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Costs for Visiting Portugal in Winter

Now, we all know winter ain’t great for beach days and sunny strolls. But there is one big perk – way better prices! Hotels and flights are more affordable these months than the peak months since not as many people are traveling.Look at what I found after looking through the pricing data on Google Hotels and Skyscanner’s USA airfare costs:

Month

Hotel (USD/night)

Flight (USD)

Average 7-Day Trip (USD)

November

$88

$356

$972

December

$83

$345

$926

January

$88

$352

$968

February

$83

$353

$934

As you can see, December seems to be the steal, with trips including flights and a hotel coming in under a grand sometimes. February is close behind, though.

Now, if you want sun, head down south where it’s still pleasant. Spend your savings on warm meals by the sea instead of hotel costs further north.

Lisbon is the Prime Winter Destination

Now we all know further north gets cold and gloomy, but Lisbon stays mild and sunny. Perfect for…

  • Sightseeing: Explore sites like Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Wander the colorful alleys.
  • Fado Shows: experience traditional Portuguese music in the historic Chiado area.
  • Holiday Cheer: Check out lit-up streets and the Wonderland winter festival market.
  • Port Wine Tasting: Visit Taylor’s shop for samples.
  • Views for Days: Sintra’s Castelo dos Mouros overlook is stunning.

Carnivals to Get In On

Well, things are a lot quieter in Portugal in winter than in summer, but some fun traditions still run during the winter months:

  • Feira Nacional do Cavalo Golegã: Horse fair with races and more in November
  • São Martinho Festival: Bonfires and harvesting parties with chestnuts and wine on Nov. 11th
  • Carnival Parades: Costumed dancing and snacks in Feb, biggest in Lisbon and Algarve

What is the Least Busy Time to Visit Portugal?

March through May are the quietest times of year to visit Portugal. And let me tell you, these spring months are the most underrated despite the mild weather, sparse crowd, and rain being way better than winter.

Mild Spring Weather

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In Portuguese spring, the temperature highs around 65°F on average up north in March, warming up to the low 70s by May. Pretty pleasant if you ask me! And rain days mostly average 5-9 depending on the month.

Meanwhile, the southern regions like Lisbon tend to be even drier and toastier. Perfect weather for getting out and exploring without the tourist hordes. Here’s an overview:

Month

Temperature (°F)

Rainy Days

March

55-65 (°C 13-18)

4-8

April

58-68 (°C 14-20)

5-9

May

65-73 (°C 18-23)

3-8

Cost of Visiting Portugal in Spring

Now, visiting Portugal in spring isn’t the bargain basement like winter, but still way cheaper than the crazy summer costs. Here’s the rundown:

Month

Hotel (USD/night)

Flight (USD)

March

$93 (€85)

$410 (€375)

April

$109 (€99)

$589 (€538)

May

$109 (€99)

$429 (€392)

Exploring Portugal’s Natural Parks in Spring

Remember when I said how crowded it gets from June through October? Well, spring is the opposite – you’ll have beaches, trails, and sites way more to yourself. Here’s how you’ll want to get started with the national parks:

  • Alvão Natural Park: Near Porto, this gem has lush forests along the Olo River. Oh and Fisgal Waterfall? Prone to rainbow mists – stunning.
  • Serra da Estrela: Portugal’s biggest nature park boasts the country’s highest peak. Even in May, you’ll see snow on tops surrounded by new growth—a breathtaking contrast!

Wine Tours and Beach Visits

Spring is also the perfect time to explore Vila Nova de Gaia, home to historic port wine cellars and beautiful beaches.

  • Port Wine Cellars: Hit up the port wine cellars like Ferreira. Tour the vintage barrels then sip samples!
  • Beaches: Take in views at Praia de Miramar, which is known for its sea glass. Or bustle at the boardwalk beach Praia da Madalena.
  • Afurada: Afurada is an old fishing village with the best grilled catch. You’ll also love to check out the old-school laundry pools still in use.

Scenic Bike Path from Afurada to Espinho

There’s a sweet trail that runs from Afurada all the way to Espinho, just over an hour ride end to end usually. And the calm bike ride through the route is simply unmissable. Along the way, you’ll pass chapels right on the beach and maybe spot some birds at the Douro Estuary nature spot.It’s the perfect way to take in all the gorgeous scenery along the coast. Breeze along the soft path instead of driving. 

Portugal’s Spring Festivals and Events

Although not quite as lively as in the peak months, when spring kicks off in Portugal, there’s no shortage of fun festas going down.

  • Semana Santa (March/April): Usually occurs late March to mid-April. Religious processions all over the country with flowers, lights, crosses – Braga and Algarve get real wild.
  • Festa das Cruzes (May): Takes place in May in Barcelos. Folk dancing, fireworks, music, and they even do carpet designs with flowers! The Fair of the Crosses takes place in the town’s public square.
  • Peregrinação de Fátima (May 13): Can’t miss the pilgrimage on May 13th to the shrine where the Virgin Mary reportedly appeared back in 1917. Big deal.

What is the Worst Time to Visit Portugal?

Well, from my experience, the worst months are August and November. Not because they’re all bad, but there are better options. August sees some mega-cons, like blazing hot prices thanks to huge crowds flocking to the dreamy weather. Rooms cost a pretty penny and flights, too.

November, on the other hand, has low costs, but cool temperatures and lots of rainy days make it a gloomy, indoor-type month.Now, neither are total losses mind you. With August, just know what you’re gettin’ into price and bodies-wise. And November could be fine if you pack accordingly.But between the two, I’d say prices and crowds in August are a bigger buzzkill versus a bit of November drizzle. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Still confused to figure out the best time of year to visit Portugal with your specific travel goals? Here, read some of the answers to the common questions asked by other travelers to find out more. 

What is the best month to visit Portugal?

Hands down June is prime – summer weather in the low 70s without August’s high prices and crowds. Perfect for beaches, trails, and cities.

What’s the rainy season in Portugal?

October through March usually sees more rain, especially in November and December in the north. Head south to cities like Lisbon and Faro for drier spots.

When is traveling to Portugal the cheapest?

November through February, no question. Prices are lowest thanks to cool temps keeping crowds away. Expect $83-88 a night usually.

Where is the best weather in Portugal?

South Portugal near Lisbon or the Algarve region always stays milder and sunnier than further north. Ideal for beach-goers year-round.

How many days to plan when visiting Portugal?

Aim for a minimum of 5-10 days. Five if hitting one or two cities, 10+ to truly get a taste of multiple spots from north to south.

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Wrapping Up

Look, at the end of the day, there’s no “perfect” time to visit Portugal. It all boils down to what floats your boat. Sunbathing or sightseeing? Bargain hunting or festival hopping? Whatever you’re after, Portugal’s got you covered.

Just remember, a little planning goes a long way. So pick your season, pack accordingly, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Trust me, Portugal’s charm will blow you away no matter when you show up!