When you plan a trip to Lisbon, you really have to think about the weather. This coastal city gets mild winters, warm summers, and a ton of sunshine, but honestly, each season feels a bit different.
If you’re after comfortable weather, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Lisbon. Temperatures stay pleasant and the crowds thin out compared to the busy summer months.
You can chill at outdoor cafés, wander historic streets, and soak in the views—without sweating through long lines at the big attractions. Spring brings blooming gardens and lively festivals. Autumn? Warm evenings and a relaxed pace that makes it easier to explore.
If you love hot weather and the buzz of a busy city, summer’s your season. You get long, sunny days and citywide celebrations, but also higher prices and way more tourists. Winter cools down and gets wetter, but it’s quieter and cheaper, which is nice if you want to dodge the crowds.
Overview of Lisbon’s Weather and Climate
Lisbon sits in a mild climate, shaped by both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean influences. Winters stay cool and wet. Summers turn warm, dry, and sunny.
These seasonal shifts don’t just affect temperatures. They also change rainfall and daylight, which might help you decide when to go.
Mediterranean Climate Characteristics
Lisbon has a Mediterranean climate with oceanic influence. You’ll get mild winters, warm summers, and a pretty clear difference between the wet and dry seasons.
The Atlantic keeps things from getting too extreme. Temperatures rarely drop below freezing in winter, and they usually don’t go above 30 °C (86 °F) in summer.
Coastal breezes help make the summer heat easier to handle than in Portugal’s inland spots.
Snow? Almost never happens here—just a handful of times in the past century. Instead, winter brings rain and wind, but you’ll still get sunny breaks.
Summer’s all about long stretches of clear skies, though sometimes you get short heatwaves that push temperatures higher than usual.
Lisbon’s climate feels pretty balanced, and honestly, it’s more temperate than a lot of other European capitals.
Average Temperatures by Season
Winter (December–February) averages around 11–12 °C (52–54 °F), with daytime highs near 15–16 °C (59–61 °F). Nights might get down to 8–9 °C (46–48 °F), but frost almost never shows up.
Spring (March–May) warms up fast. Highs go from 18 °C (64 °F) in March to about 23 °C (73 °F) by May. It’s a great time for walking tours and outdoor stuff.
Summer (June–September) brings highs around 26–28 °C (79–82 °F). Nights stay mild at 17–19 °C (63–66 °F). Sometimes, heatwaves push things above 35 °C (95 °F), but those don’t last long.
Autumn (October–November) cools off gradually. Highs hit about 22 °C (72 °F) in October and 18 °C (64 °F) in November. Nights are cooler but still milder than much of Europe.
| Season | Avg High °C | Avg Low °C | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | 15–16 | 8–9 | Mild, wet |
| Spring | 18–23 | 11–14 | Pleasant, drier late |
| Summer | 26–28 | 17–19 | Warm, sunny |
| Autumn | 18–22 | 12–15 | Mild, wetter late |
Rainfall Patterns and Sunshine Hours
Rain in Lisbon follows a Mediterranean rhythm. Most of it falls between October and April. November usually gets the most.
Winter months often bring 8–10 rainy days each, but July is basically bone dry.
Lisbon gets about 810 mm (32 inches) of rain each year. Heavy downpours can happen in autumn and winter, but long stretches of rain are pretty rare.
Sunshine is one of Lisbon’s best features. The city gets about 2,800 hours of sun per year, which is a lot for Europe.
Summer days can have 11 hours of sunshine. Even in January, you’ll see 4–5 hours each day.
With these long, bright summers and mild, wetter winters, Lisbon’s climate really works for year-round travel. Every season gives you something different for exploring.
Spring in Lisbon: Mild Weather and Blossoming Events
Spring in Lisbon feels like a breath of fresh air. You get steady warmth, longer days, and a mix of cultural happenings and outdoor events.
It’s a great time for walking tours, festivals, and sightseeing, minus the intense heat or heavy tourist crowds of summer.
Typical Spring Temperatures and Rainfall
From March to May, daytime temperatures rise from about 11°C (52°F) in early March to around 23°C (73°F) by late May.
Nights stay cooler, so you’ll probably want a light jacket if you’re out in the evenings.
Rainfall during spring is moderate. March and April often see 40–50 mm of rain per month. May usually dries out a bit.
Showers tend to be quick and scattered, so you’ll still get plenty of clear skies.
Sunshine picks up steadily through spring. Most days bring 8 to 10 hours of daylight, so you can really pack in the sightseeing.
Compared to winter, the weather’s a lot more stable. You won’t get stuck with too many gray or damp days.
Humidity stays comfortable, generally between 65% and 75%. That helps keep the air fresh for wandering Lisbon’s hilly streets.
Festivals and Outdoor Activities in Spring
Spring kicks off Lisbon’s outdoor cultural season. The Lisbon Half Marathon in March draws runners and spectators from all over, with a beautiful route that goes over the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Music fans can catch the Out Jazz Festival, starting in May and rolling into summer. Performances pop up in parks and gardens, with free concerts and a laid-back vibe.
This is also a good time to explore Alfama’s narrow streets, hop on a tram, or check out the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint—no need to worry about summer’s heat.
Parks like Eduardo VII and Jardim da Estrela burst into bloom, so picnics and strolls are extra nice.
Spring weather also makes it easy to take day trips to beaches near Cascais or see Sintra’s palaces. The coast is warm enough for long walks, though the Atlantic is still pretty chilly for swimming.
Crowd Levels and Travel Costs
Tourist numbers go up through spring, but it never gets as packed as July or August.
March and April feel quieter, while May attracts more visitors as the weather improves.
You’ll spot shorter lines at attractions, it’s easier to get restaurant reservations, and public transport isn’t as packed as in peak season.
This makes sightseeing a lot more relaxed.
Hotels and flights tend to cost less in early spring. Prices start to rise in May, especially around holidays or festivals.
Booking early can help you snag better deals.
Spring really does offer a sweet spot—comfortable weather, fun events, and manageable costs—making it one of the smartest times to visit Lisbon.
Summer in Lisbon: Warmth, Festivals, and Crowds
Summer in Lisbon means hot, dry days, buzzing festivals, and packed streets. Expect long hours of sunshine, busy attractions, and tons of outdoor activities along the coast.
Temperature Highs and Dry Conditions
June through August brings Lisbon’s warmest weather. Daytime highs often hit 28–32°C (82–90°F), and sometimes it gets even hotter during heatwaves.
Nights stay milder, usually around 18–20°C (64–68°F), so evenings are nice for walking or eating outside.
Rain almost never happens in summer. You’ll get 10–12 hours of daylight, so the days feel long.
But the afternoon heat can be pretty intense, especially if you’re walking in areas without much shade.
It’s smart to plan your sightseeing for the morning or later in the evening. Bring water, wear light clothes, and don’t skip the sunscreen.
Lisbon’s hills and cobblestone streets can make walking in high heat a bit of a workout, so take it slow.
Beach Season and Coastal Attractions
Summer is the top season for Lisbon’s beaches. The Atlantic coast is just a quick train ride away, with spots like Cascais, Carcavelos, and Costa da Caparica filling up with locals and tourists.
The water stays cooler than the Mediterranean, averaging 18–20°C (64–68°F), but trust me, a swim feels amazing on a hot day.
Surfing’s also big here, with steady waves along the coast.
If you want to avoid the crowds, check out quieter places like Guincho Beach—great for windsurfing—or the smaller coves south of Lisbon.
A lot of people split their days between city mornings and afternoons by the sea, which is super easy with the trains.
Beach clubs, seafood spots, and seaside bars stay open late, so the vibe is lively. Just expect crowds, especially on weekends when locals flock to the shore.
Major Summer Festivals and Events
Summer is festival time in Lisbon. The biggest ones are the Festas de Lisboa and Santos Populares in June.
Streets fill with music, dancing, and stalls selling grilled sardines and sangria. Alfama and Bairro Alto turn into party central.
Huge music festivals also come to town. Super Bock Super Rock and Sumol Summer Fest bring in big-name artists.
The LX Factory, a former industrial spot turned cultural hub, throws open-air concerts, art shows, and food markets all summer.
These events make the city feel electric, but they also mean more crowds in the popular areas. If you love nightlife and local traditions, summer’s calendar is stacked.
Tips for Visiting During Peak Season
Since summer is Lisbon’s busiest time, hotels cost more and attractions get crowded. Book your place to stay and tickets well in advance.
Public transport fills up fast, especially trams and trains to the beaches.
To dodge the biggest crowds, hit the main sights early in the day. Try wandering less central neighborhoods too—places like Graça or Campo de Ourique have local charm and fewer tourists.
Bring cash for street festivals, and watch out for pickpockets in busy spots.
If you want to dive into Lisbon’s nightlife, plan around festival dates but also save time for quieter evenings.
With a bit of planning, you can soak up the summer energy and still find time to relax by the coast.
Autumn in Lisbon: Pleasant Weather and Fewer Tourists
Autumn in Lisbon feels just right—mild temperatures, lighter crowds, and a slower pace that makes exploring the city more enjoyable.
You’ll get comfortable days for walking and cooler evenings where you might want a light jacket. Seasonal festivals and harvest traditions add cultural depth to your stay.
Early Autumn vs. Late Autumn Weather
Early autumn, especially September, brings daytime highs in the mid-70s °F (around 24°C). Nights stay mild, usually in the low 60s °F (16–18°C).
This time of year still feels like late summer. It’s perfect for eating outside and taking day trips to the beaches.
By November, things cool down. Daytime highs drop to the upper 50s °F (14–15°C), and nights settle in the high 40s °F (8–9°C).
Rain picks up, and November becomes one of Lisbon’s wettest months.
If you want warmer weather and less rain, September and October are your best bets. If you’re after quieter streets and don’t mind cooler nights, November is calmer and hotels are cheaper.
Wine Harvests and Seasonal Events
Autumn is harvest time in Portugal, and you can join in even if you’re based in Lisbon.
Vineyards in the Setúbal Peninsula and Alentejo region—both easy day trips—celebrate grape harvests with tastings and tours. It’s one of the best times to try local wines with traditional Portuguese food.
October brings cultural events and music festivals across the city. The Lisbon Half Marathon, usually in September or October, draws runners from around the world and takes them across the 25 de Abril Bridge.
Religious and food festivals pop up too, so you get to see local traditions—without the summer tourist crush.
Best Activities and Local Experiences
Autumn’s cooler weather makes walking tours through Alfama, Mouraria, and Chiado so much more comfortable than in the summer heat. You might wander historic streets, hop on Tram 28, or head up to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte without waiting in long lines.
Early autumn is great for day trips to Sintra or Cascais. Gardens and coastal paths stay green and warm.
By late autumn, rain turns indoor attractions into welcome escapes. The Gulbenkian Museum or the Oceanarium can easily fill a drizzly afternoon.
If you love food, autumn’s the time to try roasted chestnuts from street vendors. It’s a seasonal treat locals look forward to every year.
Outdoor cafés usually stay open through October. You can soak in Lisbon’s laid-back dining scene well into the fall.
Winter in Lisbon: Mild Temperatures and Off-Season Perks
Lisbon’s winter brings cooler but still comfortable weather, plus fewer tourists and lower prices. The city feels calmer, and you’ll find festive events and cozy indoor activities that make sightseeing more relaxed.
Typical Winter Climate and Rainfall
Winter runs from December to February. Average daytime temperatures usually hover between 10°C and 16°C (50°F to 61°F). Nights get chilly but rarely drop below 5°C (41°F).
Rain falls more often in winter than in summer. Lisbon gets about 80–100 mm of rain per month during these months. Showers usually arrive in short bursts, so you can often dodge them and keep exploring.
You’ll see less sunshine than in summer, but most days still offer 4–5 hours of daylight sun. A light jacket and an umbrella usually do the trick.
Despite the rain, Lisbon stays one of Europe’s mildest capitals in winter. If you like cool but not freezing weather, you’ll probably enjoy it here.
Holiday Season and Indoor Attractions
Lisbon lights up with a festive vibe in winter. December brings Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and special foods like roasted chestnuts and traditional pastries. Downtown neighborhoods such as Baixa and Chiado look especially magical with their decorations.
Rainy days don’t have to be boring. You can visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, or MAAT for art and history. Historic churches like Sé de Lisboa and Igreja de São Roque are also worth a stop.
Cafés and fado houses offer a warm place to unwind and get a taste of Portuguese culture. Try bacalhau com natas or catch live music in Alfama—why not?
Winter evenings feel quieter, but theaters and concert halls still put on shows. You get a cultural fix without the summer crowds.
Advantages of Winter Travel
Traveling to Lisbon in winter brings some real perks. Hotel rates and flight prices drop, so you can stay longer or book that central room you wanted. You’ll also skip the long lines that clog up attractions in peak season.
You can actually take your time at popular spots like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Castelo de São Jorge. No need to rush or elbow through crowds.
Restaurants, trams, and viewpoints such as Miradouro da Senhora do Monte feel more relaxed too. The city almost seems to breathe easier.
Day trips work well in winter. Towns like Sintra or Cascais are close by, and the cooler weather makes walking tours much more pleasant.
If you crave calm streets, culture, and a budget-friendly trip, winter in Lisbon might surprise you with how much it offers.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit Based on Your Preferences
Your Lisbon experience really depends on how you match the season to your interests. Weather, cost, and cultural events all shape your trip in different ways.
Weather Considerations for Different Activities
Spring and fall usually give you the best conditions for walking tours, day trips, and sightseeing. Temperatures stay between 59°F and 77°F (15°C–25°C), so climbing Lisbon’s hills or exploring Alfama’s narrow alleys doesn’t feel like a workout.
If you’re after beach days, summer is the obvious choice. Highs land between 77°F and 86°F (25°C–30°C), and there’s plenty of sun. Beaches like Carcavelos and Costa da Caparica are an easy train ride away, though you’ll probably share the sand with lots of others.
Winter’s mild by European standards. Daytime averages of 46°F to 61°F (8°C–16°C) mean you can still stroll outdoors, but expect some rain. This is the time for museums, palaces, or just lingering in a cozy café.
Budget and Accommodation Insights
Your budget will stretch further depending on when you visit Lisbon. Winter (November–February) brings the lowest hotel rates and airfare. Major landmarks also feel emptier, which saves you time and sometimes money.
Summer (June–August) is the priciest stretch. Hotels in places like Baixa or Chiado fill up fast, and rates soar. If you’re set on summer, book your stay well ahead to avoid disappointment.
Spring and fall hit a nice middle ground. Prices stay lower than peak summer, and the weather beats winter’s chill. A lot of travelers end up preferring these shoulder seasons. You get to skip both the extremes and the highest costs.
Balancing Festivals, Crowds, and Local Life
Lisbon’s cultural calendar really shapes your experience here. June rolls in with the Festas de Lisboa—there’s street music, food stalls, and parades everywhere. The city feels electric, but the crowds can get intense, so you’ll probably notice busy streets and higher prices for places to stay.
Fall months bring film festivals and food events. These do attract visitors, but it’s nothing like the summer rush. September and October strike a nice balance if you’re after culture without the chaos.
Winter holidays let you see a quieter Lisbon. Christmas lights go up, markets pop up, and you’ll find traditional pastries everywhere. Honestly, if you’d rather blend in with locals and skip the crowds, this time of year might be your best bet.