The Best Time to Visit Lisbon, Portugal: The Ultimate Guide 

There are countless reasons to hop on a flight to Lisbon. Cobbled streets lined with historical buildings, pristine beaches, century-old landmarks, and delicious food are some of the features that draw travelers to the Portuguese capital.

But that’s not all. Thanks to its glorious location on the Gulf Stream, Lisbon is also praised for its luminous, glowy weather.

This vibrant city has no less than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it one of Europe’s sunniest places!

Lisbon’s consistent, pleasant weather makes the city a fabulous travel destination year-round.

However, when deciding the best time to visit Lisbon, it’s important to consider other factors like prices for flights and accommodations, and the activities you’re planning to enjoy.

To help you plan your dream trip, we’ve created a comprehensive guide breaking down the best times to visit Lisbon.

Whether your focus is to enjoy Lisbon’s sun-soaked beaches while sipping on some vinho verde, save money, or sightsee as much as possible we’ve got the answer you’re looking for.

Keep reading to learn more!

The Lisbon Weather

Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, rainy winters, and warm, dry summers.

Lisbon’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean influences its weather patterns. The ocean helps to moderate temperatures, preventing extremes in both summer and winter.

Additionally, the sea breeze provides a cooling effect during hot summer days.

Lisbon’s winters are gentle, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C during the coldest months of December, January, and February. Frost and snow are extremely rare in the city.

Lasting from June to September, summers in Lisbon are typically hot and dry. July and August are the hottest months, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (82°F).

Heatwaves can occasionally occur, pushing temperatures above 30°C.

Lisbon experiences most of its rainfall during the winter months. However, the overall annual precipitation is relatively low compared to other European cities.

The rainiest months in Lisbon are November and December, while the summer months tend to be drier with little rainfall.

The Seasons in Lisbon

Spring in Lisbon

Springtime in Lisbon runs from March to the end of June. This season is characterized by mild temperatures that are gradually increasing.

Average spring temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, and you can expect a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days.

However, it’s important to note that spring temperatures can vary, and occasional cooler or warmer days are possible.

As the season progresses, humidity slowly decreases. March and April tend to have a higher chance of rain compared to May.

However, rainfall is usually not excessive, and it often comes in the form of brief showers or drizzles.

Over the course of the spring in Lisbon, the length of the day is very rapidly increasing.

There’s an average of 13h hours of daylight in Lisbon during springtime, providing ample opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities.

March average temperature: High 18°C / Low 10° C
April average temperature: High 20°C / Low 12°C
May average temperature: High 22°C / Low 14°C
June average temperature: High 25°C / Low 16°C

Summer in Lisbon

The summer season in Lisbon spans from late June to September, which is the city’s peak tourism season.

During this time of year, Lisbon experiences hot and dry weather with plenty of sunshine.

In June, temperatures reliably hover around a pleasant 25ºC. August is the warmest month, with average temperatures peaking around 30°C.

It’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach or exceed 30°C during the summer months in Lisbon.

When African air masses reach Lisbon, the summer weather can be scorching hot, with temperatures reaching 36/38 °C.

Typically, these heatwaves occur from mid-June to early September.

Lisbon enjoys abundant sunshine during the warm season. Summer months bring long, sunny days with clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and visits to the beach.

Summer is also the dry season in Lisbon. Rainfall is infrequent during this time, and the overall precipitation is significantly lower compared to other seasons.

However, occasional brief showers or thunderstorms can occur, especially toward the end of summer.

June average temperature: High 25°C / Low 16°C
July average temperature: High 28°C / Low 18°C
August average temperature: High 28°C / Low 18°C
September average temperature: High 26°C / Low 17°

Fall in Lisbon

During the fall, Lisbon experiences mild temperatures with increasing rainfall as the season progresses.

September is still warm, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 25°C. Then, temperatures gradually cool down.

In October, average temperatures range from 14°C to 22°C, and in November, they range from 11°C to 18°C.

Fall is the season when rainfall starts to increase in Lisbon. September tends to be drier, while October and November receive more precipitation.

Rainfall can vary from light showers to heavier downpours, and it’s advisable to have an umbrella or raincoat handy during this time.

November is the wettest month, with precipitation amounts to 135 mm (5.3 inches), distributed over 10 days.

Fall in Lisbon offers a mix of sunny and partly cloudy days. You can still expect a fair amount of sunshine during this season, but there may also be days with overcast skies.

It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast for the most up-to-date information.

September average temperature: High 26°C / Low 17°
October average temperature: High 23°C / Low 15°C
November average temperature: High 18°C/ Low 12°C
December average temperature: High 15°C/ Low 9°C

Winter in Lisbon

Winter in Lisbon spans from late December to March. During this time of year, the city experiences mild and relatively rainy weather.

Average daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C during the coldest months of December, January, and February.

January is the coldest month, with the average daily highs hovering around comfortable 14°C.

Even during this cooler month, frost and snow are extremely rare in Lisbon, and it’s uncommon for temperatures to drop below freezing.

Winter is also the wettest season in Lisbon. The city experiences a significant increase in precipitation compared to other seasons.

November and December are generally the rainiest months, with January and February also receiving a fair amount of rainfall.

Rainfall can vary from year to year, and occasional drier periods are possible.

Along with rainfall, Lisbon may experience occasional storms during the winter months.

These storms can bring gusty winds and heavier downpours. However, severe storms are relatively rare in the region.

The Portuguese winter is characterized by a higher number of cloudy or overcast days compared to other seasons.

Yet, there are still days with clear skies and sunshine during the wintertime.

December average temperature: High 15°C/ Low 9°C
January average temperature: High 15°C / Low 8°C
February average temperature: High 16°C / Low 9°C
March average temperature: High 18°C / Low 10° C

The Best Time To Visit Lisbon, Portugal

For Pleasant Weather

In terms of weather, both spring and summer are amazing times to visit Lisbon.

Overall, spring in Lisbon offers comfortable weather, with mild temperatures, increasing sunshine, and moderate rainfall.

Spring’s fabulous weather conditions provide visitors with the chance to explore Lisbon and its attractions on foot.

The spring season is also a popular time for witnessing the eye-popping flowers and trees that are in full bloom around Lisbon.

The city is particularly famous for its exotic Jacarandá trees, which were brought from Brazil in the 19th century by Felix Avelar Brotero, aka the father of botany in Portugal.

Until the end of June, the dreamy Jacarandá trees come alive with mauve and purple flowers, turning the city into a true spectacle.

Some of the best places to see the Jacarandá trees in Lisbon during spring are the famous Jardim Botânico de Lisboa and Parque Eduardo VII.

Thanks to its sunny weather and mild temperatures, spring is also a great time to take leisurely walks along the Tagus River, enjoy picnics at the local parks, and experience the city’s culture and cuisine outside.

Summer in Lisbon also spoils visitors with amazing weather conditions.

Temperatures are warm, making it an ideal time to visit the city’s beaches. If you’re seeking to experience a memorable beach day in Lisbon, make sure to visit dreamy coastal towns such as Cascais and Costa da Caparica.

Just beware the summer is the peak season for tourism in Lisbon. This means you’ll face the biggest crowds of tourists and higher prices for accommodations and flights.

For the Lowest Prices & Fewer Crowds

Thanks to their amazing weather conditions, spring and summer are the most popular seasons to visit Lisbon.

The summer and spring months also correspond to Lisbon’s peak tourist season, which means higher rates for flights and accommodations, as well as thicker crowds of tourists.

With that being said, you will generally find most off-season deals during late fall through winter.

From November until February, and especially after the holiday season, there are fewer tourists visiting the city in comparison to the busy summer and spring months.

Because of the thinner crowds of tourists, accommodation prices, as well as rates for flights and activities are lower than they are in the summer.

For Bucket-List Activities & Experiences

Lisbon has comfortable weather throughout the entire year, meaning every season offers a variety of bucket-list activities for travelers to enjoy.

Boasting mild weather and sunny skies, spring is a wonderful time for sightseeing the most popular Lisbon attractions without the intense summer crowds.

The comfortable temperatures create ideal conditions for walking around Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods such as Alfama, Graça, and Chiado.

While strolling around Lisbon on foot, you’ll be mesmerized by the city’s tiny alleys beautifully lined with pastel-hued houses decorated with colorful tiles.

Other bucket-list activities in Lisbon during spring include visiting Lisbon’s Botanical Garden, which comes alive with stunning blooming flowers and lush greenery.

Be sure to also check out famous historical landmarks such as the commanding Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the São Jorge Castle.

Summer is the beach season in Lisbon. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal to visit Carcavelos Beach, Cascais, and other local beaches.

Aside from exploring Lisbon’s charming beach towns, travelers can also enjoy the city’s vibrant street parties during the summertime.

One of Lisbon’s most famous festivals is Popular Saints (Santos Populares), which happens in June to celebrate the city’s most popular saints, Saint John,  and Saint Anthony.

These Santos Populares celebrations last for around two weeks and are an amazing cultural experience for anyone visiting Lisbon during the summer.

During this amazing annual event, locals and tourists flock to the city streets to feast on traditional Portuguese food, and drink, and dance to local music for hours on end.

Saint Anthony is the patron saint of Lisbon, and on the 13th of June, there’s a beautiful procession starting at the church of S. António in Alfama, where the saint was born around 1193.

During the summer season, make sure to also go on a boat cruise on the Tagus River to enjoy scenic views of the city, while sipping on some Portuguese vinho verde (green wine).

Fall is an excellent time to visit the fairytale town of Sintra. Regarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this dreamy village is home to enchanting palaces and lush gardens that’ll take your breath away.

In fall and winter, take shelter from the rain by visiting the Gulbenkian Museum, home to masterpieces from Antiquity to Art Nouveau. Be sure to also visit the Lisbon Oceanarium, one of Europe’s largest aquariums.

You can also warm up with traditional Portuguese custard tarts from the iconic Pastéis de Belém bakery, and cozy up in a traditional Fado house and listen to the melancholic melodies of Lisbon’s traditional music.

For Amazing Events & Festivities

Lisbon has a robust line-up of amazing events citywide running throughout the year.

So, it really doesn’t matter when you visit the Portuguese capital — you’ll certainly find incredible festivities to keep you on your toes all year round.

Here’s a list of all the key events happening in Lisbon throughout the year.

Spring: Sonar Festival (April), Liberty Day (April), ARCO Lisboa (May), Rock in Rio Lisboa (May), Lisbon Book Fair (May to June)

Summer: Santos Populares (June), Moga Festival (June), NOS Alive (July), Super Bock Super Rock (July), Jazz Em Agosto (August)

Fall: International Queer Film Festival Lisbon (September) Lisbon Marathon (October), Lisbon & Estoril Film Festival (Lisbon & Sintra Film Festival), (November), Web Summit (November)

Winter: Carnival (February/March), Wonderland Lisboa (November TO January)

FAQ Best Time To Visit Lisbon

What is the best time to visit Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon depends on budget, interests, and preferred weather. For lower prices and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). If you prefer warmer temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, the summer months are the perfect time to visit the city.

Which month is the coldest in Lisbon?

The coldest month in Lisbon is typically January. During January, temperatures in Lisbon can range from around 8°C to 15°C on average.

What is the rainy season in Lisbon?

The rainy season in Lisbon typically occurs during the winter months, from November to February. November and December are the rainiest months, during which the average rainfall reaches 128 mm.

What time of year is the cheapest time to visit Lisbon?

The cheapest time to visit Lisbon is generally during the shoulder season of fall ( October to November), and winter (especially January and February). During these seasons, you can find more affordable prices for accommodations, flights, and tourist activities compared to the peak tourist season in summer.

Is Lisbon a cheap place to visit?

Lisbon is considered to be a relatively affordable destination compared to many major cities in Europe. While it may not be as budget-friendly as some Eastern European cities, it still offers good value for travelers.

Is Lisbon expensive in June?

Lisbon can be relatively more expensive in June compared to the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. June marks the beginning of the peak tourist season in Lisbon, and prices for accommodations, flights, and tourist activities tend to rise during this period.

What are the best months to travel to Portugal?

The best months to travel to Portugal depend on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Generally, the best time to visit Portugal is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October). 

How cold does it get in Lisbon?

The average low temperatures in Lisbon during the winter can range from around 8°C to 11°C. It’s rare for temperatures to drop below freezing, and snow is extremely uncommon in the city.

Is Lisbon cold in October?

No, Lisbon is not cold in October. On average, daytime temperatures in October range from around 17°C to 22°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 12°C to 17°C.

Has Lisbon ever had snow?

Yes, Lisbon has experienced snow, but it is an extremely rare occurrence due to its Mediterranean climate and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. The last significant snowfall in Lisbon occurred on January 29, 2006.

Is Lisbon nice in winter?

Lisbon can be quite nice in winter, especially if you enjoy a milder climate and a more relaxed ambiance. While it might not offer the warm beach weather that attracts tourists during the summer, Lisbon has its own charm and unique appeal in the winter months.

Is Lisbon warmer than Barcelona?

Lisbon is on the Atlantic Ocean, so the weather is milder than in Barcelona.

Is the weather better in Lisbon or Porto?

The weather in both cities is generally pleasant throughout the year. However, Lisbon, being situated further south and closer to the Atlantic Ocean, tends to have slightly milder winters compared to Porto. Lisbon’s summers may also be slightly warmer, but the difference is not significant.