Weather and temperatures in Portugal – when to go on holiday?

Are you looking for an interesting destination to relax, but also to spend your time actively? Do you dream of a vacation in a place where you can admire captivating views, taste delicious dishes and relax with a refined wine? Do you want to spend a romantic vacation with your significant other, walking through atmospheric and charming streets? Portugal will be the perfect choice for you! This is an incredibly interesting country full of beautiful, vast beaches and steep cliffs. You will also find many atmospheric towns and fishing villages here, which encourage long walks and visiting breathtaking monuments. You can go on holiday in Portugal not only to the continental part: you can also choose the Azores, an archipelago of nine volcanic islands, as well as the charming Madeira. Depending on which destination you choose, weather conditions may vary. One thing is for sure, Portugal is one of the warmest European countries. Plan your holidays in Portugal and find out when it’s worth booking a trip. 

Douro Valley

Continental Portugal - Climate 

Portugal is located in the southwestern part of Europe, which means that it is located in the Mediterranean climate zone. It is a mild and pleasant climate, characterized by hot and dry summers and wet winters. There are four seasons, the periods of which correspond to the seasons in Poland, but even in the coldest months it is difficult to compare the temperatures of Portugal with those in our country. The average annual temperature is 13°C in the north and 18°C ​​in the south, but it is a rather specific country, because inland it is very warm, while by the ocean it can be much colder. Average annual precipitation ranges between 3000 mm/m² and 300 mm/m². In Portugal, you can also experience snowfall, which regularly appears in the northern and central parts of the country in winter. Temperatures can drop below -10°C during this time. Snowfall is very rare in the south of the country. The months with the most rainfall are November, December and January, and the rainiest month is November. The average rainfall is then around 112 mm. In July there will be the least rainfall, it is also the warmest month of the year - the average temperature is then 27°C. In January, when it is the coldest, the temperature drops to around 13°C.

In Portugal, the longest day of the year falls in June and is almost 15 hours long, while the shortest day, in December, is 9 hours and 27 minutes long. This means that the difference between the longest and shortest day of the year is about 5 hours and 25 minutes. For comparison: in Poland, the same difference is as much as 9 hours! The climate in Portugal means that in winter there is an average of about 4-6 hours of sunshine per day, and in summer it is even 10-12 hours. 

Algarve - ocean

Weather and temperatures in Portugal throughout the year 

Portugal - Weather in January 

January is the coldest month of the year in Portugal, although the country's location in the Mediterranean climate zone means that winters are mild. Depending on the region, January temperatures can range from around 8°C in the central part of the country to as much as 16°C in the Algarve in the south. The average water temperature at this time is 15°C. When traveling to Portugal in January, you should be prepared for different weather conditions, as this is a month in which the weather is very difficult to predict.

Portugal - Weather in February 

The weather in Portugal in February is similar to January, although it is slightly warmer. The highest average temperatures are recorded on the southern coast and in the central part of the country. The maximum average temperature at this time is 17°C, and the lowest is 9°C. February is often marked by cool winds, which makes temperatures seem lower, but rainfall in February is less than in January, and there are significantly more sunny days than rainy ones. February is a good time to go to Portugal for people who like active sightseeing. 

Portugal - weather in Mark 

March in Portugal is quite a pleasant month. Temperatures slowly start to rise, reaching around 10°C at night and 19°C during the day. Rain in March is quite rare; the average rainfall in this month is 53,2 mm. Rain falls mainly in the north of the country, so if you want beautiful and sunny weather, it is worth going to the southern coast. In addition to the temperature, the number of sunny hours during the day also begins to increase significantly. 

Lisbon - panorama from Almada

Portugal - weather in April 

In April, Portugal becomes very pleasant. Temperatures rise to 20°C during the day and at night they reach around 11°C. Temperatures in the north of the country are slightly lower than on the southern coast. Rain falls here for only a few days in April, and the average monthly rainfall ranges from 39 to 64 mm. The water temperature in the Atlantic Ocean is around 16°C. This is the ideal time to go for people who like active recreation. The weather at this time encourages sightseeing, hiking in the mountains and walking along the charming streets. This is also a time when the country is not yet visited by many tourists, stay in Portugal in April it will therefore be much quieter and significantly cheaper than in the summer season. 

Portugal - weather in May 

May in Portugal is a great time to visit and relax. Tourists can expect warm, sunny weather with little chance of precipitation. Daytime temperatures reach around 23°C, while at night they drop to 14°C. It can be a bit cooler on the coast, due to the winds blowing in from the ocean. The water temperature rises to around 17°C, so although bathing conditions are not very attractive, this is an ideal time for active recreation and organizing trips around the island.

Cascais

Portugal - weather in June 

June in Portugal is a very warm and pleasant month: the average daytime temperature is around 26°C, and at night it can drop to 16°C. There are only a few rainy days throughout the month; the average monthly rainfall is around 16 mm. The water temperature rises to 18°C, so June will be a great month for a trip to Portugal for people who like both sightseeing and sunbathing.

Portugal - weather in July 

July is one of the warmest months in Portugal, where the weather is typically summer-like at this time. Average daytime temperatures reach a maximum of 29°C, and at night they drop to around 19°C. Precipitation is very rare at this time; the average monthly rainfall is 4 mm. In July, the sun shines for about 12 hours a day, so it is a great time for sunbathing and water sports. The average water temperature in July is already around 20°C. The weather at this time is extremely attractive, which favors an increase in the number of tourists. 

Portugal - weather in August 

August in Portugal It is very sunny and dry, the temperature – as in July – remains within the range of 28°C–29°C, and at night it does not drop below 18°C. The average rainfall in August is only about 6 mm. The water temperature at this time is perfect for bathing, as it is 21°C. August, although still very warm, is slightly less sunny than July. The temperature inland is much higher than by the ocean, where there is no great heat at this time.

Portugal - Weather in September 

September in Portugal is still a very sunny and pleasant month. The average daytime temperature is 27°C and 18°C ​​at night. Heatwaves can also occur at this time, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C. Rainfall is still quite rare, but there is a bit more than in previous months; the average rainfall in September is around 30 mm. The water temperature is still around 21°C. September is the month when the peak season is over and there are fewer tourists than in July or August.

Lisbon – Rossio Station

Portugal - weather in October 

The weather in Portugal in October starts to cool down a bit, with temperatures around 23°C during the day and 15°C at night. The average monthly rainfall is already around 70 mm. There are around 7 hours of sunshine during the day. The water temperature starts to drop and is around 19°C. October is therefore an ideal time to go for people who like to explore and spend their time actively, it is also a period when prices are much more attractive than in the summer season. 

Portugal - weather in November 

November weather in Portugal is not great and can be quite changeable. Temperatures start to drop rapidly: during the day they reach 17°C, while at night they only drop to 11°C. There is also more rain at this time, with an average monthly rainfall of around 90 mm. The sun shines for only around 5 hours a day. The weather in the south of the country is nicer than in the rest of Portugal, so this is a good time to visit this region.

Portugal - weather in December 

December in Portugal is the rainiest month of the year, with an average rainfall of around 114 mm. The sun shines for only around 5 hours a day, and the average temperatures are almost identical to November, ranging from 10°C to 17°C. Although these are not the right conditions for sunbathing, many tourists choose this month to visit Portugal: a big advantage is the peace, the lack of queues and crowded attractions, and the prices of trips are much more attractive than in the summer season.

Temperature of water in Portugal 

Portugal is a country located on the Atlantic Ocean. The water temperature in the ocean is usually cooler than in the sea, due to the large circulating masses of water that mix to create ocean currents. The cold Canary Current flows along the coast of Portugal, which is why the temperatures of the Atlantic Ocean around Portugal are not very high. In the winter months, the water temperature oscillates around 14-15°C. From April, the water starts to get warmer, but it is still not suitable for bathing and water sports. The best time to enjoy the charms of the Atlantic waters in Portugal is the summer months, i.e. July, August and September, when the water temperature is around 25°C. From October, the temperature of not only the air, but also the ocean water drops significantly, to around 15°C. 

Lisbon - National Pantheon

Lisbon and Algarve Exclusive

Lisbon and Algarve Exclusive | Lisbon, Algarve
Wonderful golden beaches and towering majestic cliffs, extraordinary rock formations and caves, turquoise water and small towns on the seashore - the southern coast is undoubtedly the perfect place for an exquisite holiday in Portugal. Exclusive hotels where you can forget about everyday duties, restaurants serving seafood and tasteful cafes where you can drink coffee in the company of artistic bohemia... A perfect complement to a trip to Portugal will be a tour of Lisbon - romantic sunsets from the terrace on the hotel's roof, trips on the iconic yellow tram and walks among the gems of neoclassical architecture...

Climate in the Azores 

One of the autonomous regions of Portugal is the Azores archipelago, which consists of the islands: Sao Miguel, Pico, Terceira , Saint Jorge, Faial, Flores, Santa Maria, Graciosa and Corvo, characteristic for their volcanic origins. What also characterizes the islands mentioned above is the lush vegetation that covers the archipelago. This is definitely a destination for people looking for beautiful landscapes, peace and a mild climate. The weather in the Azores is slightly different from that in mainland Portugal: temperatures throughout the year are quite stable and range from around 14°C to 23°C, so they are slightly lower than on land. This region is characterized by quite strong winds and precipitation, but the rains that occur here are generally fleeting and not very bothersome. The average annual amount of precipitation is around 1070 mm, the rainiest season in the Azores is winter, and in addition to the rain, there is often fog. In summer, the islands start to get very sunny, although it is never hot or hot here.

Azores – Lagoa do Fogo

Weather and temperatures in the Azores throughout the year 

Azores – weather in January, February and March 

In the winter in the Azores the temperature ranges from 14°C to 16°C, the water temperature is around 15°C. These are not the right conditions for relaxing on the beach, but it can be a good time for people who like to spend time sightseeing. Winter is the time when there are not many tourists in the Azores.

Azores – weather in April 

April is the beginning of spring in the Azores. Thermometers are slowly starting to show higher temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 18°C. We can expect less and less rainfall and more sunny days. This is a good time to organize trips, and spring is also the best time to watch whales – the symbol of the Azores.

The four colors of the Azores – Terceira, Faial, Pico and Sao Miguel

The Four Colors of the Azores – Terceira, Faial, Pico and Sao Miguel | Terceira, Faial, Pico, Sao Miguel
Located in the middle of the Atlantic, the Azores archipelago is the westernmost border of Europe. Although each island has its own unique culture and heritage, they are all united by their beautiful and unspoiled nature, pleasant subtropical climate and traditional lifestyle. On this Azores tour, you will explore four unique islands – Terceira, Faial, Pico and Sao Miguel – which will enchant you with their natural beauty. Volcanic landscapes, lagoons, black beaches and rugged cliff coastline contrast beautifully with charming villages and colonial towns. Feel the healing effects of geothermal springs, sail out into the wide Atlantic in search of whales and in the evenings, enjoy delicious verdelho wine!

Azores – weather in May 

May in the Azores means temperatures around 16°C and mostly sunny weather. Average rainfall this month is 47 mm. The ocean water is still not very inviting for swimming, as its temperature is only 16°C.

Azores – weather in June 

June is the beginning of calendar summer, but the weather in the Azores is not yet fully summery. During the day, the thermometers show about 19°C, while at night about 17°C, the water temperature rises to 18°C. Most days of the month are sunny.

Pico – Eric Azoric

Azores – weather in July and August 

In the summer, the weather in the Azores is pleasant, but the temperatures are not very high. In the summer months, they are around 21°C during the day and 20°C at night, while the water temperature reaches up to 22°C. These are ideal conditions for organizing not only hiking trips, but also for sunbathing.

Azores – weather inin September

In September, the weather in the Azores is still good, air and water temperatures are over 20°C, but this is a period when there are fewer tourists, so a holiday in the Azores at this time will be calmer than in the peak season. In September, there may be some light rain, but the sun shines for most of the month.

Azores – weather in October and November

Autumn in the Azores is associated with nice and pleasant weather, air temperatures oscillate around 18°C-19°C, and water temperatures around 18°C. Although there may be occasional showers, most days are sunny. The average monthly rainfall is around 70 mm. 

Azores - weather in December 

In December, the weather in the Azores is much more attractive than in Poland. Temperatures, both during the day and at night, reach about 16°C. Some days of the month are cloudy and rainy, but you can also count on sunny weather. The water temperature at this time is about 17°C. 

Water temperature in the Azores 

The temperature of the Atlantic Ocean in the Azores is quite stable throughout the year. It ranges from about 16°C in the winter months to about 22°C in the summer. The best months for swimming in the ocean are August and September.

Madeira – Marina da Quinta Grande

Madeira - climate

Madeira is an island that is called the land of eternal spring, and due to its rich fauna and flora, it is one of the most beautiful islands in the Atlantic Ocean. Although it lies in the Mediterranean coastal climate zone, the weather in Madeira is significantly different from that in mainland Portugal. Temperatures throughout the year range between 19°C and 24°C, and the differences between the seasons in Madeira are small: one could venture to say that there are only two seasons here - spring and summer. The water temperature also does not change significantly throughout the year and oscillates between 18°C ​​and 23°C. Rainfall in Madeira occurs mainly in January, February, October, November and December, but the rain is not intense and regular and occurs much more often in the north than in the south of the island. The warmest and driest months of the year include July, August and September. The length of daylight in Madeira and mainland Portugal is similar: the shortest day of the year lasts exactly 10 hours, and the longest 14 hours and 18 minutes, so the difference between them is only about 4 hours. Even in January, the sun doesn't set before 18 pm, so you can enjoy the sun's rays for many hours. As you can see, the weather conditions in Madeira make it an ideal place to relax all year round!

Weather and temperatures in Madeira throughout the year

Madeira – weather in January and February

January and February are the coldest months of the year, but the temperature does not drop below 16°C during the day and below 14°C at night. The ocean water can surprise you with its temperature of around 18°C, so even in winter, those who want can swim not only in the hotel pool. In January and February, there may be rainfall on the island. When organizing your holiday in Madeira in February, it is worth taking part in the local carnival celebrations, which are celebrated exceptionally loudly on this Portuguese island.

Madeira – weather in March 

In March, the rainy season ends in Madeira. The weather starts to become more sunny and the temperatures rise, averaging 17°C. The sun shines for about 8 hours a day. There are very good conditions for visiting local attractions.

Madeira – weather in April

April in Madeira means full spring. Thermometers show temperatures of around 18°C. The sun warms the island for a significant part of the month, and it is already quite dry. Such conditions encourage tourists to spend their time actively in Madeira. 

Madeira – weather in May 

In May, you can expect beautiful and sunny weather in Madeira. The air temperature during the day ranges from 20°C to 22°C, and the water is around 18°C. There is little rainfall and its average sum during the month is around 29 mm. Visiting Madeira in May, tourists can not only enjoy pleasant weather, but also take part in the Flower Festival, which is organized on the island every year at the turn of April and May.

Madeira - Cliffs

Madeira – weather in June 

In June, summer is already here in Madeira. The average daily temperature is around 21°C -22°C, and sometimes there are days when the thermometers show even 30°C. Rainfall is negligible. The sun shines most days, making June in Madeira already perfect for sunbathing. The water temperature is around 21°C, which encourages swimming in the ocean. However, it is worth remembering the wind blowing from the ocean, which can make it much cooler on the beaches. June also has the longest days of the year, making it a great time for a vacation.

Madeira – weather in July and August 

July and August are the warmest months of the year in Madeira. The average temperature is around 22°C-23°C during the day and 19°C at night. However, there are hot days when the thermometers show almost 40°C! The wind blowing from the ocean moderates the heat and makes it rare to feel high temperatures on the island. The water in the ocean is quite warm and is around 22°C. In the summer months, the sun shines almost 10 hours a day, and rain occurs sporadically.

Madeira – weather in September 

In September, the holiday season begins to die down a bit and there are significantly fewer tourists than in the previous two months. However, the weather is still satisfactory: the average temperature during the day is around 23°C, and the ocean water is also warm and suitable for swimming. The sun shines for most of the month, and there are only a few rainy days. The average rainfall is around 30 mm. This is a great time to relax and actively explore the island.

Madeira – weather in October and November 

October and November are the months when there are not many tourists in Madeira. These are the months when there can be frequent rainfall, so it is difficult to enjoy most of the island's attractions. Temperatures in autumn in Madeira range from 20°C to 21°C. The water is still moderately warm at this time, with a temperature of around 22°C.

Madeira - weather in December 

Madeira is relatively often visited by tourists in December. The average temperature during the day is around 17°C, which is significantly higher than in Poland at this time. It is also very pleasant at night, because the temperature does not drop below 15°C. In December, Madeira may experience more intense rainfall than in previous months. Although the weather is not as attractive as in the summer months, many tourists visit Madeira in December due to the celebrations of Christmas or New Year's Eve.

Madeira – Traditional houses in Santana

Water temperature in Madeira 

The water temperature in Madeira is moderately warm all year round, due to the influence of the warm Gulf Stream, and ranges from around 17°C in winter to around 22°C in summer.

How to prepare for a trip to Portugal?

Visa to Portugal

When planning a trip to sunny Portugal, Poles can completely forget about visa formalities. Thanks to both countries' membership in the European Union and the Schengen Area, the borders are open, and entry is simply a valid ID card. This freedom of movement means that a short city break in Lisbon, a beach holiday in the Algarve, or a trip to Madeira or the Azores doesn't require a passport or any additional permits. Poles can reside, work, or study anywhere in Portugal without restrictions, making it one of the most accessible and welcoming travel destinations. Simply pack your suitcase and head off for your Portuguese adventure without worrying about bureaucratic barriers.

What to take and pack for a trip to Portugal?

When packing your suitcase for Portugal, it's worth thinking in layers, as the country offers both the scorching southern sun and the crisp Atlantic breeze. Light, summery clothes should be the foundation of your wardrobe, but a warmer sweater and a windbreaker are absolutely essential, as they will prove invaluable on cooler evenings in Lisbon or Porto. The most important piece of equipment, however, is a pair of very comfortable, thick-soled shoes, which will ensure comfort while strolling the city's famously steep, cobblestone streets. Don't forget sunscreen with a high UV protection factor, a hat, and sunglasses, which are essential for most of the year. With this preparation, you'll be prepared for any weather surprise and fully enjoy the charms of the Portuguese landscape.

Vaccinations for Portugal

When planning a trip to sunny Portugal, you can breathe a sigh of relief, as there are no special or mandatory vaccinations for tourists from Poland. The risk of infectious diseases is similar to that in Poland, so health preparations are limited to standard precautions. Before departure, it's worth checking your health record book to ensure you're up to date with your tetanus booster vaccination, recommended every 10 years before each trip. The most important piece of medical equipment is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which provides access to public healthcare. Although the risk is low, having the card and additional travel insurance guarantees peace of mind and safety while exploring the charms of Portugal's coasts and cities.

Safety in Portugal

Portugal is considered one of the safest countries in the world, making it an ideal destination for a carefree vacation. Visitors can freely stroll through the charming streets of the cities both during the day and after dark, enjoying the friendly atmosphere. The main threat to watch out for is common pickpocketing, especially in crowded public transport and the popular tourist attractions of Lisbon and Porto. It's also worth remembering the power of the Atlantic Ocean – swimming at guarded beaches and respecting lifeguard flags is essential for water safety. By taking standard precautions, you can fully immerse yourself in discovering the delights of this beautiful country without worrying about your safety.