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Best Time to Visit Portugal from India

Spring is the best time to visit Portugal as the country remains draped with colourful flowers and lush greeneries after the long and chilly winter. During this time, you can cover numerous historically significant castles, palaces, museums and natural attractions without difficulty.

Portugal is a beautiful country adorned with splendid forms of natural beauty, including a broad coastline, islands, mountains, forests, etc. It has some of the most mesmerising beaches in Europe. Nevertheless, before visiting, you must know about the particular season when you can explore the enchanting country comfortably.

Best Months/Seasons to Visit Portugal

If you are trying to find the best seasons for travelling to Portugal, follow the list discussed below:

Month Average Temperature Description
March-May (Spring Season) 10 to 22 degrees Celsius Spring in Portugal is ideal for exploring historic cities like Lisbon and Porto and enjoying mild weather and blooming landscapes.

Popular events during this time: Easter, the Carnival festival, Semanta Santa (Holy Week), and the Sand Sculpture Festival.
June-August (Summer Season) 17 to 29 degrees Celsius It is the hot summer season, perfect for beach activities in the Algarve, surfing in Nazare, and enjoying vibrant summer festivals.

Popular events during this time: Rock in Rio-Lisboa, feast day of St. Anthony, and Festa de Sao João.
September-November (Autumn Season) 15 to 27 degrees Celsius The mild autumn season with stunning fall foliage is ideal for wine harvest tours in the Douro Valley, cultural festivals in Lisbon and Porto, and scenic drives through colourful landscapes.

Popular events during this time: Feira de São Mateus, Feira Nacional de Gastronomia, and music festivals nationwide.
December-February (Winter Season) 8 to 15 degrees Celsius The winter season with cooler temperatures is ideal for exploring historic sites without the crowds, enjoying traditional Portuguese cuisine, and experiencing festive holiday markets.

Popular events during this time: Christmas, New Year Celebrations, Sintra Film Festival, and National Horse Fair.

March-May (Spring Season)

Spring brings life into Portugal, showcasing colourful blooms and favourable weather conditions, making it ideal for urban explorations, old-fashioned villages, and outdoor activities such as hiking or beach excitement.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Portugal:

Weather Mild with frequent showers
Temperature 10°C to 22°C
Season Moderate
Season for Localities Easter, Carnival festival, Semana Santa (Holy Week), Sand Sculpture Festival 
Key Highlights
  • Visit Lisbon and Porto for cultural tours
  • Explore the lush landscapes of Sintra
  • Enjoy hiking and wine tours in the Douro Valley

June-August (Summer Season)

Portugal's summer is all about having sunny days, having fun along the beaches, and exploring coastal towns. It is the perfect time to doze off by the sea, eat fresh seafood, and feel the lively mood of this country.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Portugal:

Weather Warm and sunny, with occasional showers
Temperature 17°C to 29°C
Season Peak
Season for Localities Rock in Rio-Lisboa, the feast day of St. Anthony and Festa de São João
Key Highlights
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of the Algarve
  • Surf the famous waves in Nazare
  • Enjoy lively summer festivals and events
  • Explore coastal towns and their maritime heritage

September-November (Autumn Season)

Autumn in Portugal is moderate, with colourful settings ideal for visiting ancient towns and vineyards and doing outdoor activities like hiking. These are the days of beauty and cultural wealth one should enjoy fully.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Portugal:

Weather Pleasant, with occasional showers 
Temperature 15°C to 27°C
Season Moderate to Peak
Season for Localities Feira de Sao Mateus and music festivals across the country 
Key Highlights
  • Tour the Douro Valley during the grape harvest
  • Enjoy cultural festivals in Lisbon and Porto
  • Experience the beautiful autumn landscapes
  • Visit historic sites with fewer crowds

December-February (Winter Season)

Winter in Portugal gives a mild break with cool temperatures, making it a nice time for sightseeing without crowds. Wandering along cobbled streets or sipping Portuguese wine, Portugal's winter is relaxed and has a charming atmosphere.

Here are some of the key details you should know about this season when planning a trip to Portugal:

Weather Cool with heavy rain showers
Temperature 8°C to 15°C
Season Off
Season for Localities Christmas, New Year Celebrations, the Sintra Film Festival, and the National Horse Fair
Key Highlights
  • Explore historic cities like Lisbon and Porto without the crowds
  • Enjoy traditional Portuguese winter dishes
  • Experience festive holiday markets and lights
  • Visit Sintra's palaces and castles with a winter charm

When to Avoid Visiting Portugal?

While Portugal is a beautiful destination year-round, there are times and conditions when visiting it might need to be more appealing. Knowing when to avoid travelling can help you plan a more enjoyable trip.

Months to Avoid Reason
December to February (Winter Season)
  • Portugal gets quite cold during these months, with an average temperature range between 8°C and 15°C. Though not common, snow can be seen in places like the mountains, which is good news for those who love winter sports.
  • However, many people who visit Portugal prefer something other than this time as it generally experiences a cooler climate. Many tourist attractions, especially outdoor ones, have shorter working hours or may even be shut down completely.

Seasonal Travel Costs of Visiting Portugal from India

Travelling to Portugal from India can be affordable if you choose the right time of year. The cost of flights and hotels varies significantly between seasons. Below is a detailed table outlining the different months/seasons and their respective pricing for various parameters:

Season Average Flight Cost Average Hotel Cost per Night Description
Spring (March-May) ₹30,000 - ₹38,000 ₹5,000 - ₹9,000 Moderate prices; ideal for exploring cities and outdoor activities with mild weather.
Summer (June-August) ₹33,000 - ₹40,000 ₹6,000 - ₹10,000 Peak season with higher prices due to increased tourism. It is perfect for beach and hiking trips.
Autumn (September-November) ₹27,000 - ₹35,000 ₹6,000 - ₹8,000 Moderate to peak prices; great for sightseeing and experiencing the grape harvest season.
Winter (December-February) ₹25,000 - ₹37,000 ₹5,000 - ₹8,000 Low season with the cheapest prices; best for winter sports and indoor cultural activities.

Things to Know Before Visiting Portugal

Here are some aspects that you must know about before visiting Portugal to make your journey more enjoyable:

  • Dial the emergency number, 112, during any serious situation. You can communicate in English, Portuguese and French.
  • Although Portugal is a safe place, you must be responsible for your own luggage and purse to avoid being a victim of theft.
  • While travelling in the countryside, enable GPS on your phone so that you do not lose your way.
  • Try to stay with your own group during the night.
  • The person assisting you in parking your vehicle may want tips.
  • Carefully collect and keep your tickets for public transportation to avoid paying fines. The police may ask for the ticket randomly.
  • Stay attentive while swimming on the seashore or walking along sea beaches. Otherwise, massive waves may hit you, leading to unexpected mishaps.

Tips for Travelling in Portugal

Remember the following tips to get the most out of your international trip to Portugal:

  • Research about the places to visit in Portugal before going for exploration
  • Abstain from confrontation with any of the local public
  • Complete your vaccinations before going to the country
  • Bargain with local vendors responsibly
  • Maintain basic hygiene to avoid sickness during your travel
  • Carry mosquito repellents and apply them while travelling along the forests and countryside
  • Carry a padlock
  • Keep your government ID proofs, passport and visa during your journey

What Phrases Should You Know Before Travelling to Portugal?

Here are some common Portuguese phrases you must know to communicate necessary things to local people:

English Portuguese 
Hello/Hi Olá/ Oi
Do you speak English? Você fala inglês?
Yes Sim
No Não
I do not speak Portuguese Não falo português
Please  Por favor
Excuse Me  Com licença
Thank You Obrigada/ Obrigado
You are welcome De nada
No Worries Sem problemas
I need a doctor Eu preciso de um médico
Where is the bathroom? Onde fica a casa de banho?
I don't know Não sei
Today Hoje
Tomorrow Amanhã
Yesterday Ontem
Who? Quem?
What? Que?
Where? Onde?
When? Quando?
Why? Por quê?
Which? Qual?
How much? Quanto?
Left Esquerda
Right Direita
Help Ajuda
Police Polícia
1 um
2 dois
3 três
4 quatro
5 cinco
6 seis
7 sete
8 oito
9 nove
10 dez

 

Now that you know the best time to visit Portugal and all the things you can enjoy during this time, you can pack your bags to satisfy your wanderlust. However, before you travel to the country, make sure to get yourself covered with a travel insurance policy. It will help you get financial protection to bear accidental hospitalisation expenses. You can also get compensation after a flight cancellation, loss of checked-in luggage, etc.

FAQs about Best Time to Visit Portugal

What is the peak season in Portugal?

Peak season in Portugal typically spans from late June to early September, coinciding with European summer holidays and warmer weather across the country.

What is the moderate season in Portugal?

The moderate season in Portugal, when it's not too crowded but still quite pleasant, falls from March to May and September to October.

What is the off-season in Portugal?

The off-season in Portugal is typically during the winter months, from December to February.

What are the hottest and coldest months in Portugal?

Portugal's hottest months are typically July and August, while the coldest are January and February.

Is winter a good time to visit Portugal?

Yes, winter can be an excellent time to visit Portugal if you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, although some tourist attractions may have reduced hours or closures during this season.

What month is the rainy season in Portugal?

The rainy season in Portugal typically occurs during the winter months, from November to February.

How many days are enough for Portugal?

Around 7 to 10 days is sufficient to explore the main highlights of Portugal, allowing you to visit Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve region, and some additional destinations like Sintra or the Douro Valley.

Is Portugal a tourist-friendly country?

Yes, Portugal is known for being a tourist-friendly country. It offers excellent infrastructure, welcoming locals, relatively low crime rates, and a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions catering to tourists worldwide.

What currency to take to Portugal?

The currency used in Portugal is the Euro (€). It is recommended that Euros be carried when travelling to Portugal for ease of transactions and wider acceptance.

Is Portugal expensive to visit?

No, Portugal is generally affordable compared to other Western European countries, offering good value for money in accommodations, dining, and attractions.

When to go to Lisbon?

The best time to visit Lisbon is typically around March to May or September to October when the weather is mild and pleasant, and fewer tourists are around than in the peak months.

Do Indians need a visa for Portugal?

Yes, Indian citizens typically need a visa to visit Portugal. They can apply for a Schengen visa, which allows entry into Portugal and other Schengen Area countries.

Which month is there snow in Portugal?

Snow in Portugal is most common during the winter months, from late December to early March. It primarily falls in the higher altitude regions of the interior, such as the Serra da Estrela mountains.

Which month is good for Portugal?

May, June, and September are generally good months for visiting Portugal. The weather is usually warm and pleasant during these months, making it ideal for exploring cities.

Why is Portugal worth visiting?

Portugal is worth visiting for its rich history and culture, stunning landscapes from coastlines to mountains, delicious cuisine and wines, warm hospitality, and relatively affordable travel costs compared to other European countries.

Is Lisbon worth visiting?

Yes, Lisbon is worth visiting for its rich history, beautiful architecture, delicious cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere.

Is Lisbon hot or cold?

Lisbon generally has a mild and temperate climate, with warm summers and mild winters.

Is it safe to go to Lisbon at night?

Yes, Lisbon is generally considered safe to visit at night. Like any major city, it's advisable to exercise general precautions such as avoiding poorly lit places and being cautious.

Is Portugal good for nightlife?

Yes, Portugal, especially in Lisbon and Porto, hosts a nightlife scene with various bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night entertainment centres, making it a famous destination for those seeking nightlife experiences.

What is the speciality of Portugal?

One of the specialities of Portugal is its rich culinary tradition, known for delicious seafood, pastries like Pastéis de Nata, and regional dishes such as Bacalhau (salted cod). Portugal is also sought for its world-class wines, especially Port wine from the Douro Valley and Vinho Verde from the north.

What is the most visited place in Portugal?

The most visited place in Portugal is Lisbon, the capital city. It is renowned for its historic neighbourhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto, cultural attractions such as Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, and vibrant atmosphere.

What is the prettiest place in Portugal?

One of the prettiest places in Portugal is Sintra, known for its fairy-tale palaces, lush gardens, and romantic atmosphere amidst the Sintra Mountains.

What to buy from Portugal Lisbon?

From Lisbon, popular items to buy include Portuguese tiles (azulejos), wines (especially Port and Vinho Verde), cork products, canned sardines, and Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts).

What foods is Portugal famous for?

Portugal is well-known for its seafood, like Bacalhau (salted cod), grilled sardines, and seafood rice. Additionally, it is renowned for its Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts), hearty stews like Caldo Verde, and regional specialities such as Francesinha in Porto.

What are 5 facts about Portugal?

Here are the five facts about Portugal:

  • Portugal is the oldest nation-state in Europe.
  • It's known for its rich maritime history and exploration, including Vasco da Gama's discovery of the sea route to India.
  • Lisbon is one of the oldest cities in the world.
  • Portugal produces Port wine, which is renowned globally for its quality.
  • The country boasts stunning coastline and beaches, attracting visitors worldwide.

Is Portugal good for shopping?

Yes, Portugal is good for shopping, offering various options from high-end boutiques and shopping malls to local markets and artisanal shops, especially for items like ceramics, textiles, wines, and fashion.

Is there Indian food in Portugal?

Yes, Indian food is widely available in Portugal, particularly in larger cities like Lisbon and Porto, where restaurants offer a variety of Indian cuisine.

Is it good to buy jewellery in Portugal?

Yes, buying jewellery in Portugal can be a good choice, as the country is known for its quality craftsmanship and unique designs in gold, silver, and traditional filigree work.

Which is better, Lisbon or Porto?

Choosing between Lisbon and Porto depends on personal preferences: Lisbon offers a vibrant cosmopolitan vibe with historical sites and diverse cultural attractions, while Porto captivates with its charming riverside setting, port wine cellars, and authentic Portuguese atmosphere.