Welcome to our complete guide on the best time to visit Lisbon! The Portuguese capital is a city that shines all year round. With its mild climate, lively festivals, and stunning views, there is never really a bad time to go. Still, each season in Lisbon has its own charm. Some months are perfect for sunny walks and rooftop bars, while others are ideal if you want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Whether you’re chasing warm weather, looking for cultural events, or just want the best deals on accommodation, this guide will help you plan your Lisbon trip with confidence. Let’s take a closer look at what each season and month offers.
Spring in Lisbon (March to May)
Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year in Lisbon. The city wakes up after winter, with blooming flowers, longer days, and average temperatures ranging between 14°C and 20°C. It’s a great season for walking through Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods like Alfama and Chiado, where outdoor cafes start buzzing with life.
Tourism picks up in spring, but it’s not yet as busy as summer. Easter celebrations add a festive mood, though you might notice hotel prices climbing during this period. By May, purple Jacaranda trees cover many streets, giving Lisbon an extra magical touch. If you enjoy mild weather, lively streets, and fewer crowds than summer, spring might be your best bet.
Summer in Lisbon (June to September)
Summer is the most popular season in Lisbon. With long sunny days and temperatures often between 26°C and 32°C, the city turns into a stage for festivals, music, and outdoor dining.
June is especially lively thanks to the celebrations of Santo António, the city’s patron saint. Expect street parties, music, dancing, and the smell of grilled sardines filling the air. This is one of Lisbon’s biggest highlights of the year.
July and August bring hot days, crowded tourist attractions, and higher accommodation prices. Many locals leave for coastal towns, so while Lisbon is still busy with visitors, some neighborhoods feel quieter. If you can handle the heat, this is also the best time to head to nearby beaches like Cascais or Costa da Caparica.
September is a wonderful month to visit – warm but less humid, with fewer crowds compared to July and August. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and cultural events continue into early autumn.
Autumn in Lisbon (October and November)
Autumn in Lisbon is calm and comfortable. Temperatures range between 18°C and 23°C in October, dropping slightly in November. The days are often sunny, with cooler evenings that are perfect for cozy dinners in local taverns.
Tourist numbers drop after summer, which means cheaper hotels, shorter lines at attractions, and a more relaxed city pace. Sintra, just outside Lisbon, is especially beautiful at this time with colorful autumn leaves decorating its palaces and gardens.
November is one of Lisbon’s wetter months, so you’ll want to pack a light raincoat. Still, the lower crowds and softer light make this season a favorite for photographers and those looking for a quieter experience.
Winter in Lisbon (December to February)
Lisbon’s winters are much milder than in most European capitals. Temperatures rarely fall below 10°C, and daytime highs usually stay around 15°C. Rain is more common, but you’ll still enjoy plenty of clear days.
December is full of festive charm, with Christmas lights, markets, and seasonal events. It’s a wonderful time for travelers who enjoy a cozy holiday atmosphere without freezing temperatures.
January and February are the quietest months of the year in Lisbon. Prices drop, the city slows down, and you can enjoy museums, galleries, and historic attractions without the long lines. If you want a calm, budget-friendly trip while still enjoying mild weather, winter is a surprisingly good choice.
Month-by-Month guide to visiting Lisbon
To give you a more detailed perspective on the best times to visit Lisbon, let’s break down the year into each individual month. This will help you plan your visit with precision, allowing you to align your travel with both the weather conditions and the various events that Lisbon has to offer throughout the year. From the festive atmosphere of winter to the vibrant, sunny days of summer, each month has unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences and interests. Here’s a closer look at what each month in Lisbon has in store for travelers.
January: January is one of the coldest and wettest months in Lisbon, but it’s also a great time to enjoy the city without the crowds. Average temperatures hover around 15°C, and while you may need a warm jacket, you’ll often find that the city feels more authentic without the throngs of tourists. This quiet period is perfect for visiting museums and indoor attractions like the Oceanário de Lisboa, the largest indoor aquarium in Europe.
February: The city remains quiet in February, with cool and sometimes rainy weather. Average temperatures are slightly milder than January, around 16°C. It’s a good month for cultural visits and enjoying Lisbon cozy cafes and restaurants without the wait. The streets start to show the first signs of spring, and there are fewer tourists, making it a peaceful time to explore.
March: March sees the beginning of spring with the city slowly warming to average highs of 18°C. The tourist season hasn’t fully started, making it a great time to explore the city’s landmarks without much interference. The almond trees start to blossom, adding a splash of natural color to the historic sites.
April: By April, spring is in full swing with temperatures around 20°C. This month is popular for Easter celebrations, bringing a festive atmosphere but also slightly higher accommodation prices. The streets become livelier, and outdoor dining begins to be more appealing with the warmer days.
May: May is arguably one of the best months to visit Lisbon. With temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C, the city blooms under the soft purple hues of Jacaranda trees. It’s warm enough for long walks through the city’s quaint neighborhoods and the nights are perfect for enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar.
June: June is buzzing with energy as the city celebrates the Popular Saints’ festivals, particularly St. Anthony’s Day. Expect lively street parties, music, and traditional dining throughout the month. Temperatures often reach up to 28°C, making it ideal for enjoying the vibrant nightlife and outdoor events.
July: Summer is well underway by July, with average highs of around 28°C. The city is busy, and the warm weather is perfect for exploring the beaches nearby or the historic districts early in the morning before it gets too hot.
August: August is the peak of the tourist season and the hottest month, often reaching 30°C. Many locals leave the city, which can give parts of Lisbon a deserted feel, but the main tourist areas will be very crowded. It’s the best time for beach outings as the Atlantic waters are at their warmest.
September: As autumn begins, September offers warm days with less humidity and average temperatures around 26°C. The city regains its regular pace after the summer rush, making it a pleasant time for visitors looking for a less hectic experience. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, and there are numerous cultural events as the city gears up for fall.
October: October is a beautiful month with mild weather and fewer tourists. Average temperatures range from 19°C to 23°C. The city is quieter, and you can enjoy all it has to offer more leisurely, from its historical sites to the late-night spots in Barrio Alto.
November: November sees a dip in temperatures with averages around 18°C. It’s one of the wettest months, so packing a raincoat is wise. However, the lower number of tourists and softer light make it a fantastic time for photography and enjoying the city’s cafes and museums.
December: December brings the holiday spirit to Lisbon with festive lights and markets. Though one of the wettest months, the temperatures rarely fall below 12°C. The city is festive and less crowded, offering a tranquil yet charming holiday experience.
When is the best time to visit Lisbon?
The truth is that Lisbon is a fantastic destination all year. If you want sunshine and street parties, choose June or early summer. If you prefer fewer crowds and colorful scenery, May and September are perfect. For budget travelers or those who like a quieter atmosphere, January and February offer excellent deals. And if you love festive charm, December brings holiday lights and markets that fill the city with magic.
No matter when you visit, Lisbon welcomes you with warm hospitality, stunning views, and an endless list of things to see and do. The best time is the one that matches your travel style – whether that means long sunny days by the beach, cozy evenings with wine, or lively festivals that spill into the streets.
FAQs about the best time to visit Lisbon
Is Lisbon worth visiting in winter?
Yes! Winter in Lisbon is mild compared to most European capitals, with average highs around 15°C. It’s a quiet season with fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. December is especially charming with Christmas lights and markets.
What is the hottest month in Lisbon?
August is the hottest month, with temperatures often reaching 30°C. It’s also the busiest for tourists, but the Atlantic waters are at their warmest, making it great for beach trips.
When is the cheapest time to visit Lisbon?
The cheapest months are January and February. Flight and hotel prices are at their lowest, and you’ll find far fewer crowds at major attractions.
What is the rainiest month in Lisbon?
November is usually the rainiest month, but showers are often short and followed by sunny breaks. With fewer visitors, it’s still a great time to enjoy museums, cafes, and cultural experiences.
When is the best overall month to visit Lisbon?
May and September are often considered the best months. The weather is warm but not too hot, the city is lively but not overcrowded, and it’s the perfect balance between comfort and atmosphere.