Lisbon enjoys one of Europe's most pleasant climates: mild winters, bright springs, hot summers cooled by the Atlantic, long autumns. The sun shines for about 2,800 hours a year, and even in winter clear days are common. It is part of the Lisbon guide; see also the climate in Portugal.
The climate in charts
The seasons
Spring (March-June)
One of the best seasons: temperatures rise from 19 degrees in March to 26 in June, jacarandas bloom purple in late May and early June, terraces fill up. In April the Carnation Revolution is commemorated on 25 April. In June Lisbon lives its festival month with the Santos Populares: on the night of 12 June the marchas populares parade along Avenida da Liberdade, and all month the historic districts fill with grilled sardines, music and dancing. See Lisbon festivals.
Summer (July-August)
Summer is hot and dry, with highs around 28-30 degrees, but the Atlantic wind, the nortada, cools the evenings. Heatwaves sometimes push temperatures above 40. It is high season: crowded beaches, high prices, festivals like NOS Alive. The ocean stays cool, 17-20 degrees, on the Cascais and Caparica coasts.
Autumn (September-November)
September and October are glorious: the sea is at its warmest, days still long and warm, fewer tourists. Rain arrives in late October and November. November brings the Web Summit, which fills the hotels; St Martin's summer, around 11 November, often brings a few sunny days and roast chestnuts in the streets.
Winter (December-February)
Winter is mild and rainy: highs around 15 degrees, lows around 8, rarely below freezing. Rainy days alternate with clear, bright ones. Portuguese homes are often poorly heated, so choose accommodation with good heating. It is the quietest, cheapest period; in December the city is lit up for Christmas and New Year is celebrated with fireworks on Praça do Comércio.
Month by month
| Month | Weather | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| January | Mild, rainy | Low season, low prices |
| February | Mild, rainy | Carnival, almond blossom |
| March | Cool and changeable | Start of spring |
| April | Pleasant | 25 April, Easter |
| May | Ideal | Jacarandas in bloom |
| June | Warm, festive | Santos Populares, St Anthony |
| July | Hot, breezy | Festivals, high season |
| August | Hot | Crowded beaches, some shops closed |
| September | Warm, best sea | Ideal for city and beach |
| October | Mild | First rains, fewer tourists |
| November | Cool, rainy | Web Summit, chestnuts |
| December | Mild, rainy | Christmas lights, New Year |
Prices and crowds
Hotels cost more in June, July and August, during the Web Summit and at New Year. January, February and November (excluding the Web Summit) are the cheapest months. Easter and European bank holidays bring many visitors.
What to pack
- Always comfortable shoes with good grip: Lisbon's cobbles are slippery, especially in the rain.
- Summer: light clothes, sunscreen, a sweatshirt for windy evenings by the river.
- Spring and autumn: layers and a light jacket.
- Winter: a raincoat, a wind-resistant umbrella and a sweater.
See also when to go to Portugal.