Coastal view of Portugal with wooden stairs and a flying seagull, illustrating Portuguese weather and landscapes.
Guide
Living

A Guide to Portuguese Weather

Oakie Britcher
Editorial Manager

Oakie Britcher is the lead content writer at Portugal Pathways, researching and writing guides on residency, tax, property, and lifestyle topics for internationally mobile families. He works closely with Portugal Pathways' network of legal, tax, and property specialists to ensure every article reflects current regulations and practical, real-world guidance.

Everything you need to know about the weather in Portugal

What to expect from the weather in Portugal:

When considering the weather, it's also worth noting that Portugal boasts one of Europe's highest amounts of sunshine, with an average of 2500-3200 hours of sunlight annually.  

The sea temperature can also be a factor for those who enjoy water activities.  Sea temperatures range from 14°C (57°F) in the winter to 20°C (68°F) in the summer, depending on the region.

Although as a small country, Portugal offers various climates due to its geographical positioning and topography.  It's important to understand that Portugal is divided into distinct climatic zones: the north (including cities like Porto), the central region (including the capital, Lisbon), and the southern region (the Algarve).

Northern Portugal (Porto)

The northern region of Portugal experiences a maritime temperate climate.  This results in mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers.

A view over the city of Porto and the Douro river
Porto

Winter(December to February): The average temperature ranges from 5°C (41°F) to 14°C(57°F).

Spring(March to May): The average temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 19°C (66°F).

Summer(June to August): The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C(77°F).

Autumn(September to November): The average temperature ranges from 11°C (52°F) to20°C (68°F).

Central Portugal (Lisbon)

Lisbon, located on the western coast, experiences a Mediterranean climate.  Here, the winters are mild and slightly rainy, while the summers are hot and dry.

Aerial view of orange-roofed houses in Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon

Winter(December to February):

The average temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 15°C(59°F).

Spring(March to May): The average temperature ranges from 11°C (52°F) to 22°C (72°F).

Summer(June to August): The average temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 28°C(82°F).

Autumn(September to November): The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to26°C (79°F).

Southern Portugal (The Algarve)

The Algarve experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot, dry summers.  It's generally warmer and has more sunny days than the rest of Portugal.

A luxurious stretch of beach and marina in the Algarve Portugal
Algarve

Winter(December to February):

The average temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 16°C(61°F).

Spring(March to May): The average temperature ranges from 11°C (52°F) to 22°C (72°F).

Summer(June to August): The average temperature ranges from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C(86°F).

Autumn(September to November): The average temperature ranges from 15°C (59°F) to25°C (77°F).

Conclusion:

Remember that while these are the average temperatures, actual temperatures can occasionally go below or above these averages.  Always check the weather forecast for the most accurate information.  In recent years, temperatures have been above average during winter and spring, making for an ideal climate all year round.  

Planning a move to Portugal?

If the climate has you thinking about living in Portugal, the next step is choosing the right residency route. Compare the options on our visas page, or read about the D7 Visa, the D8 Digital Nomad Visa and the Golden Visa.

Arrange a call with Portugal Pathways’ experts to discuss your options.