The Best Time to Visit Portugal to Explore the Historic Cities

Portugal is a country located on the Iberian Peninsula offering a chance to explore the rolling vistas, magnificent cities, and golden coastline. This European nation welcomes its visitors in every season in all its glory. Be it the charming summers, vibrant spring, colourful autumn or the cosy winters, Portugal is a wonderful travel destination in all these seasons. Its beauty never ceases to amaze its admirers. The stunning beaches, friendly locals, and delectable Portugal dishes are some of the exciting things about the place. If you are visiting Portugal for the first time, you will fall in love with its diversity and culture. To know about the best time to visit Portugal, keep on reading. We have curated a season-by-season guide especially for you to plan your travel itinerary to Portugal:

When to Visit Portugal?

Peak Season

Portugal is a year-round destination with numerous tourists from around the world. However, June to September is considered the peak season when there is a huge influx of tourists. It is the summer season in Portugal and is regarded as one of the best times to travel. If you dream of a beach holiday under pleasant weather to lounge on the coastline, this is the best time to go to Portugal.  The popular tourist spots, restaurants, and hotels work at full capacity during this time. So, make sure to book and plan the travel itinerary to avoid any surcharges.

During this time, the Southern region of the Algarve has higher temperatures. If you visit the destination between June to August, you can attend the festival Feast of Saint John the Baptist, or Festa de São João. Celebrated across the country, you can get a glimpse of the friendly culture of Portugal. Concerts, dance, and fireworks add to the festival's joy.

Shoulder Season

Many people consider this season the best time of the year to visit Portugal. March, April, May, September, and October are the shoulder months when the country is not crowded. If you are not a fan of destinations packed with tourists, this season is ideal for your Portugal vacation. Also, you can bag great deals on hotel stays, flight tickets, and restaurants as they are not in very high demand. This is the best time to visit Southern Portugal, which welcomes you with pristine beaches, and a clean beachfront.

Some of the events and festivals celebrated during these months include Holy Week, Festival De Sintra, and Freedom Day.

Low Season

November to February is the low season in Portugal when there is very little crowd in the popular tourist spots. If you like a peaceful and intimate vacation without any travel worries, visit Portugal in these months. The low season happens to be monsoon in Portugal, which makes the place green and vibrant. You can enjoy an abundance of natural beauty and a relaxed vacation to rejuvenate your body and mind. However, few hotels near the coastline close during these months. So, prior booking is required to avoid any hassle.

Portugal in the Spring Season

Portugal looks magnificent during the spring season. The blooming wildflowers, breezy evenings, and tranquil environment bring the best out of this place. Book a Portugal tourist package during these months to enjoy a lowkey and dreamy vacation. It is the best time to go to Portugal to enjoy some outdoor activities, cover landmark destinations, and explore historical places. Also, do not miss spending your evenings in coffee shops trying some Portugal dishes and enjoying the lovely weather.

Events and Things to Do in Spring Months in Portugal

• As the spring months start in Portugal, the destination is covered with wildflowers. The Festa da Flower takes place in Madeira during the spring season. It is heaven for those who dream of seeing flower carpets and colourful landscapes.
• Spring is the best time to visit Portugal to explore the historical sites of the country. Visit the monuments of Lisbon and Porto in pleasant weather. The historical places are less crowded. So, you can take your sweet little time to admire the intricacy and patterns of these architectural marvels.
• Do not miss to stroll around Évora’s whitewashed buildings to see the azulejo tilework. The artwork is a part of the history and culture of Portugal and signifies their mastery of artistry.

Portugal in the Summer Season

The glowing sun, sandy beaches, and bustling markets make the summer season one of the best times to go to Portugal. The place looks ravishing during summertime. You can spend hours on the beach, soaking in the sun's rays, and enjoying ocean breeze. Try scrumptious cuisines in the restaurants, buy souvenirs from local shops, and head to popular places to click some pictures. A summer vacation in Portugal is all you need to make memories of a lifetime.

Events and Things to Do in Summer Months in Portugal

• Attend the summer festival in Lisbon to see the city celebrate splendidly. The streets are decorated with paper garlands, where the parades take place. Enjoy the sounds of Fado and Jazz music and dance your heart out for a remarkable experience.
• During the summer months, you can join the food and wine tour in Portugal. It is the best time to go on these tours to interact with like-minded people and try some world-class wine.
• Portugal is beautiful in summer. Every city you visit has celebrations going on. The summer festivals, activities, and places are the jewels of the country.

Portugal in the Autumn Season

For a food lover and wine enthusiast, autumn is the best time to visit Portugal. This is the harvesting season in Portugal. You can see many local crops harvested such as grapes., olives, and many other staple crops.

Events and Things to Do in Portugal in Autumn

• Visit Portugal’s UNESCO-listed Alto Douro wine region to see the grape harvest season. Also, sample wines at the famous wineries.
• Visit the country-side of the destination, where the natural landscape will mesmerise you with its beauty. The rolling hills, colourful sky, and beautiful meadows will make your trip worthwhile.

Portugal in the Winter Season

You can feel a nip in the air when you visit Portugal in the winter months. The streets are quieter with fewer crowds. These are the best months to visit Portugal for those who want to escape the hustle-bustle of city life. Enjoy the slow pace of life and engage with the friendly culture of Portugal. Visiting the country in winter is the best decision that you can make, which allows you to grab some off-season deals in the travel packages.

Events and Things to Do in the Winter Season in Portugal

• Try some comfort food of Portugal such as bacalhau, or salt cod, and caldo verde in local restaurants during winter months. The cold atmosphere gives you the chance to cosy up and spend hours in cafes and restaurants trying new dishes.
• This is the holiday season in Portugal. So the vibe of the place is very different. Locals love to play the traditional music, Fado, which is sung dramatically. Interact with locals and get to know about their culture and music.

Portugal is an evergreen destination which has its charm and beauty. The place welcomes a countless number of people in every season. Plan your trip in any season to explore the city life and countryside of Portugal, which are equally beautiful.