Asking “what is the best time to visit Portugal?” is like asking for the best ingredient in a meal. The answer depends entirely on your taste. Portugal is a country of distinct seasons and regions, each offering a different experience. There is no single best time, only the best time for you.
This guide is here to help you decide when to go based on weather, crowds, and your personal travel style.
What is the best time to visit Portugal?
The best time to visit Portugal for guaranteed sun is between May and October. However, the ideal period depends entirely on your holiday goals.
For peak beach conditions, July and August deliver hot weather and warm seas. For a balance of great weather with fewer crowds, the shoulder months of June and September are ideal. These are often considered the best time of year to visit Portugal.
For city breaks and countryside exploration, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and lush landscapes without the summer crowds. Wine enthusiasts should target September for the harvest season.
Climate and seasons of the year: what to expect
Portugal’s climate is not uniform. The south (the Algarve) is typically hotter and drier than the north (Porto). The Atlantic coast is windier and more humid than the sheltered interior.
Spring
Spring (March to May) sees the landscape at its greenest. Days become progressively warmer and sunnier. It is a wonderful time for sightseeing, though the sea is still cold from winter.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is characterised by hot, dry weather, especially inland. Coastal areas benefit from cooling Atlantic breezes. This is the busiest and most expensive season.
Autumn
Autumn (September to November) is a season of transition. September often feels like an extension of summer, while November is decidedly cooler and wetter. This is a fantastic time for foodies, with harvest festivals and new wine.
Winter
Winter (December to February) is the quietest and coolest season, but it’s rarely extreme, especially in the south. It’s perfect for a city break without the crowds. Mountainous regions in the north, however, can be cold and even see snow.
When to travel according to your interests
As mentioned above, there’s no single best time to visit Portugal. It really does depend entirely on what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown of when to visit Portugal based on what you might be looking for when you get there:
For beach holidays
The Algarve’s beach season runs from June to September. For the warmest water and air temperatures, July and August are prime. For fewer families and a more relaxed atmosphere, September is excellent. The sea remains warm, and the sun is still strong. Discover the stunning coastlines of this region in our Algarve Family Holidays and Algarve caves guides.
For city breaks and culture
The best time to visit Lisbon Portugal and Porto is during the spring and autumn. The weather in April, May, September, and October is ideal for walking the city’s seven hills. You will avoid the intense heat and the largest crowds of summer. For a deeper dive, our Lisbon sightseeing guide is essential reading.
For wine and food
The grape harvest typically begins in September. This is a vibrant time to visit the Douro Valley or the Alentejo. The weather is still pleasant, and you can witness the winemaking process firsthand. It’s a uniquely Portuguese experience.
For nature and hiking
The best time to visit Madeira Portugal is for its year-round mild climate, but for hiking its famous levadas, spring and autumn are perfect. On the mainland, Algarve trails like the Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos (Seven Hanging Valleys) are best tackled outside of the summer heat.
High and low seasons: advantages and differences
The high season (June to August) offers the most reliable weather and the fullest calendar of events. Everything is open. The downside is that everyone knows this. You will encounter higher prices for flights and accommodation, longer queues at major attractions, and packed beaches.
The low season (November to February) is the opposite. This is the time for having places to yourself and for lower costs. The weather is cooler and wetter, and some tourist-focused businesses in coastal areas may close.
It’s a trade-off between perfect conditions and peacefulness. The shoulder months (March to May and September to October) aim to offer the best of both worlds.
Events and festivities by month
Portugal’s calendar is packed with events that could shape your trip. Here are just a few of the top events in the Portuguese calendar:
- February/March: Carnival (Carnaval) sees lively, colourful parades, particularly in coastal towns like Ovar, Loulé, and the Torres Vedras region, known for its more traditional and satirical celebrations.
- June: The country erupts for the Festas dos Santos Populares, especially in Lisbon. Our guide to Santos Populares Lisbon explains the street parties.
- September: Wine harvest begins in the Douro Valley.
- December: Christmas markets and festivities, detailed in our Christmas in Portugal blog, create a magical atmosphere.
- New Year’s Eve: Lisbon and Porto host spectacular fireworks displays. Plan your trip with our Lisbon Portugal New Year’s Eve guide.
Tips for planning your ideal trip
Book accommodation well in advance for the high season and for major festivals. A villa often provides better value and space for families or groups.
Renting a car is the best way to explore beyond the cities. The motorways are excellent but the tolls are costly. So, if you’re not in a hurry, the real charm is found on the smaller regional roads.
Pack for variable weather, even in summer. A light jacket or jumper is useful for cooler evenings, especially on the coast.
Don’t try to see everything in one trip. Portugal may look small on a map, but it’s packed with diversity. Focus on a region, whether that’s the beaches of the Algarve, the Lisbon region, the north, or the islands.
Discover Portugal at your best time
The true best time to visit Portugal is whenever aligns with your personal travel goals. Whether you seek summer sun on southern beaches, a springtime cultural city break, or a quiet winter retreat, the country delivers. The key is matching the season to your interests.
Once you have identified your perfect timing, the next step is finding the right base. Allure Villas offers a curated portfolio of private holiday homes, from Algarve villas with pools to chic city apartments in Lisbon and country houses in the Alentejo. These properties offer the space, privacy, and local authenticity that can define a perfect trip.
Browse our collection to find your ideal accommodation and start planning your Portuguese adventure at the best time for you.