Climate & Weather in Portugal
Portugal boasts one of Europe's most pleasant climates, with abundant sunshine, mild temperatures, and distinct regional variations.
Overview
- Sunshine: 300+ days per year (among Europe's sunniest)
- Climate type: Mediterranean
- Best months: April-June, September-October
- Hottest months: July-August
- Wettest months: November-February
Regional Climates
Lisbon & Central Coast:
| Season | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 25-35°C (77-95°F) | Hot, dry, occasional heat waves |
| Winter | 8-15°C (46-59°F) | Mild, rainy periods |
| Spring | 15-22°C (59-72°F) | Lovely, occasional rain |
| Autumn | 15-25°C (59-77°F) | Warm, drying out |
Porto & North:
- Cooler and wetter than Lisbon
- Summer: 20-28°C (68-82°F)
- Winter: 5-14°C (41-57°F)
- More rainfall year-round
- Green and lush landscape
Algarve (South):
- Warmest and driest region
- Summer: 28-35°C (82-95°F)
- Winter: 10-18°C (50-64°F)
- Best beach weather in Portugal
- Over 3,000 hours of sunshine/year
Interior (Alentejo, Beiras):
- Continental influence
- Summer: Very hot (35-45°C / 95-113°F)
- Winter: Colder (0-12°C / 32-54°F)
- Greater temperature extremes
Madeira:
- Subtropical oceanic climate
- Year-round mild (17-25°C / 63-77°F)
- Microclimates vary by location
- North more humid, south drier
Azores:
- Mild oceanic climate
- Year-round moderate (14-25°C / 57-77°F)
- Higher humidity and rainfall
- Changeable weather ("four seasons in one day")
Best Climate For You
If you want year-round warmth: Algarve, Madeira
If you prefer mild with seasons: Lisbon area
If you like green and don't mind rain: Porto, North
If you want dramatic landscapes: Azores (accept variable weather)
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-September):
- Peak tourist season
- Beach weather
- Heat waves possible (especially interior)
- Air conditioning essential in some areas
- Wildfire risk in rural areas
Winter (December-February):
- Mildest in Europe
- Rainy periods, especially north
- Great for visiting without crowds
- Heating needed (homes can be cold)
- Ski in Serra da Estrela
Spring/Autumn:
- Best times to visit
- Comfortable temperatures
- Fewer tourists
- Ideal for outdoor activities
Weather Considerations for Expats
Housing:
- Many older buildings lack central heating
- Air conditioning varies
- Consider orientation (south-facing is warmer)
- Humidity can be an issue, especially north
Cost impacts:
- No AC needed in Porto (often)
- Heating costs in winter (north especially)
- Algarve pool costs in summer
Health:
- UV strong, especially summer - use sunscreen
- Stay hydrated in summer heat
- Air quality generally excellent
- Pollen season (spring) affects some
Pro Tips
- •Portugal is one of Europe's sunniest countries - 300+ days of sunshine
- •Porto is cooler and wetter than Lisbon - pack accordingly
- •Madeira offers spring-like weather year-round - ideal for consistent climate
- •Summer heat can be intense in interior - choose coastal if heat-sensitive
- •Portuguese buildings often lack central heating - check before renting
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