Spring in Portugal: Top 10 Best Places to Visit!
Updated: Sep 14, 2023
Thinking about visiting Portugal in the spring? It is the best time to find cheap flights and cheap accommodations. I'll show you the top ten destinations in Portugal and the months to visit each destination!
March
Average Temperature H65° / L51°
6 Days of Rain 🌧️
April
Average Temperature
H68° / L53°
7 Days of Rain 🌧️
May
Average Temperature
H72° / L57°
5 Days of Rain 🌧️
March
Average Temperature
H62° / L46°
9 Days of Rain 🌧️
April
Average Temperature H65° / L48°
9 Days of Rain 🌧️
May
Average Temperature
H68° / L53°
9 Days of Rain 🌧️
March
Average Temperature H64° / L51°
8 Days of Rain 🌧️
April
Average Temperature
H66° / L53°
5 Days of Rain 🌧️
May
Average Temperature
71° / 57°
4 Days of Rain 🌧️
Weather data from NOAA: https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/
Spring Holidays in Portugal
1. Holy Week: March-April (The date changes every year)
2. Freedom Day: April 25th
3. Labor Day: May 1st
10 Best Places to Visit Portugal in Spring
1. Ericeira
2. Nazaré
3. Funchal
4. Lagos
5. Douro Valley
6. Aveiro
7. Sintra
8. Porto
9. Lisbon
10. Monsanto
[FTC Disclosure: Hey, trying to provide free guides & recommendations, but a girl gotta eat too. Well, some of the links you click on are what are known as “affiliate links.” So if you do buy something, I’ll probably earn a few bucks. Thanks in advance ✍︎]
My experience...
Spring is the ideal season to visit Portugal due to fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and warm weather throughout the day. It is recommended to travel during this season, as the summer months can be very crowded. However, it is essential to note that early spring in Portugal can have some disadvantages.
Although spring is the best time to visit Portugal, visiting at the beginning of the season is not as pleasant. The end of winter and the beginning of spring in Portugal tend to be rainy, and it is best to avoid traveling during this time unless you are lucky. I experienced this firsthand during my trip to Porto, Portugal, in March, where it rained continuously for seven out of the nine days I was there. Portugal has a significant temperature and weather difference between the North and South regions, even though it is a relatively small country.
To avoid experiencing the same situation as I did, it is best to come prepared for the rain. Bring waterproof clothing, including shoes, pants, and a jacket, or purchase a poncho in Portugal. They sell them in many places throughout the country.
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Portugal in Spring
If you're a surfer, Ericeira in Portugal is a must-visit destination you won't want to miss! This surfing haven is the European surfing capital and a global surf reserve, with thrilling waves that even the most experienced surfers will enjoy. March is the ideal time to catch these amazing waves, as the crowds haven't arrived yet, and pro surfers can have the waves all to themselves. And the views from the cliffs? They are stunning! You won't want to miss watching the sunset from the cliffs of Ericeira.
If you're looking for a glimpse of the past, you may come across fishmongers in Nazaré who still wear seven skirts. I'm not joking - it's a real tradition! For those planning a visit, consider going during the shoulder season before summer starts. This way, you can enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Nazaré without the crowds and with great weather. It's the perfect destination for beach lovers and those seeking solitude. Nazaré is your ticket to a peaceful and joyful escape.
Imagine yourself enjoying a lovely late spring afternoon in Funchal on Madeira Island. You can bask in the charming atmosphere and take in the stunning sights of the Flower Festival in May, where you will be surrounded by a vibrant array of colors in the lavish gardens. While walking around the streets, you will discover the grandeur of the city, which is like an amphitheater, showcasing the Gothic and Romanesque styles of the Funchal Cathedral, which has stood for centuries.
Are you an avid traveler looking for a new adventure? Look no further than Lagos, Portugal. This charming town on the Algarve coast is a hidden gem boasting a rich history, picturesque beaches straight out of a travel magazine, and breathtaking cliffs perfect for the adventurous. And let's not forget about Praia do Camilo, a stunning sandy cove that can only be reached by climbing a stairway to heaven - a sight that even Led Zeppelin forgot to sing about. So why wait? Pull up your socks and get ready for an unforgettable vacation in Lagos.
Lagos is located in the southern region of Portugal. Spring is the perfect time to visit because of the mild temperatures before the hot summer.
The Douro Valley in Portugal is a work of art created by Mother Nature and perfected by dedicated vintners over centuries. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a prestigious honor recognizing its uniqueness. The best time to experience this wonder is in the spring, when the weather is pleasantly mild, and the vibrant colors of spring are in full bloom as you savor the world-renowned Port wine as old as your great-great-grandparents. You will feel transported to a realm of splendor and beauty.
Step aside Italy's Venice and make way for Aveiro, the true gem of central Portugal! Bursting with charm in every colorful nook and cranny, Aveiro is the 'Venice of Portugal' – but without the hordes of tourists elbowing through St. Mark's Square. Now imagine navigating the vibrant canals in a traditional 'barco moliceiro,' (which, by the way, were once seaweed-harvesting boats, talk about recycling!). And the best part? From April to May, the pleasantly temperate springtime warms Aveiro just enough to unfurl the city's true colors.
Sintra, a beautiful and historic town located in Portugal, is the stuff of fairytales. Nestled in the shadows of the Sintra Mountains, it boasts stunning pastel-colored villas and palaces that would make Cinderella jealous. No wonder UNESCO has recognized it as a World Heritage site. Plus, it's just a quick train ride from Lisbon, making it the perfect day trip destination. But beware, you may fall in love with Sintra and never want to leave.
Porto is a city in northern Portugal that exudes charm and captivates visitors with its vibrant colors and lively streets. The historic center of Porto boasts some of Portugal's most iconic attractions, including the stunning bridges spanning the Douro River, the picturesque terracotta rooftops overlooking the waterfront, and the world-renowned port wine lodges. Everywhere you turn in this city, there is something beautiful to admire, and its unique atmosphere is almost magical, transforming with the changing light and time of day. Porto's charm can only be experienced, not described in words!
It is still considered the rainy season in the early spring of March. To properly enjoy Porto in March, wear waterproof clothing or a poncho!
P.S. The inspiration for Harry Potter was from J.K Rowling, who lived in Porto in the 1990s. You will see many resemblances of Harry Potter while visiting.
Discover Lisbon, the city of seven hills, where you'll be amazed by the uphill climbs and the stunning views that follow. The pastel-colored buildings are not just charming, but they're also reminiscent of your dream vacation. Ride on the iconic yellow tram, a theme park for urban explorers. As the sun sets, visit Alfama, Lisbon's oldest district, to enjoy Fado, a captivating Portuguese music genre with such depth and soulfulness that UNESCO has recognized it as World Heritage.
It is a great time to visit Lisbon in the spring because even though it is still a little chilly and windy, you will soon find yourself warm from walking up and down the hills & stairs.
Looking for hotels in Lisbon? Stay in these Unique Boutique Hotels in Lisbon!
If you want to experience the essence of Portugal, then Monsanto is the perfect place for you. This beautiful village is in Portugal's serene and often overlooked eastern region. It boasts breathtaking historical structures and the delightful sounds of local life that define traditional Portuguese culture. Monsanto has earned the title "Most Portuguese Village in Portugal," and it's easy to see why. This village is proud of its heritage and has won the hearts of many. So, forget about the nearby Spanish border and immerse yourself in the beauty of Monsanto.
Things you might be thinking about...
Should I go to Portugal in March?
Visiting Portugal in March might require you to pack a raincoat and some warm clothes, especially if you are heading north. However, the joy of experiencing Portugal's early spring days without the crowds of tourists is worth it. You can find last-minute cheap flights and cheap accommodations. You can enjoy the charming cobbled streets of Porto, the mystical ancient sites of Sintra, and the ornate architecture of Lisbon all by yourself. In the southern region, the weather is pleasant, with warmer temperatures and occasional showers that make every tile in the Algarve shine brighter. So, a trip to Portugal in March is highly recommended for travelers who don't mind rain. Make sure to pack your umbrella and a sense of adventure!
Should I go to Portugal in April?
Is Portugal worth visiting in April? Absolutely! It's like indulging in a freshly baked pastel de nata - warm, delightful, and perfectly sweet. During this time, the spring season is in full bloom, painting the landscape with a spectrum of colors, and the sun is shining bright, making every Instagram post look like a postcard. Although you might encounter a few chilly days, it's a perfect opportunity to snuggle up in a cozy café and enjoy divine Portuguese coffee. Additionally, every town, big or small, has local events and festivities that will bring a smile to anyone's face. So pack your bags because Portugal is waiting to give you an unforgettable experience this April!
Should I go to Portugal in May?
Have you considered visiting Portugal in May? It's the perfect time to experience the country before the summer heat sets in. The days are longer, warmer, and perfect for outdoor activities like a stroll or a picnic. It's not too hot, not too cold, but just right. Additionally, May is before the peak season, so you'll have the opportunity to experience the country without overwhelming crowds. Portugal is ready to welcome you with open arms during this charming pre-summer season. Don't hesitate to pack your bags and explore Portugal's offers!
Portugal in Spring Isn’t for You If…
You do not enjoy rain at all, especially in the early spring months in Portugal. You may encounter rainy days while traveling throughout Portugal in March. It can be frustrating and hard to enjoy your vacation. Try to go to Portugal in April or May before the crowds start returning, while the weather is still mild with fewer rainy days out of the month!
Visiting Portugal in the Spring
So, you are still unsure when to plan your trip to Portugal, right? Let me squeeze in a juicy bit of advice! Spring is the absolute best season to visit, and I'll tell you why.
It's not just because the weather is as perfect as the first bite of a ripe orange. No, it's more than that. Imagine strolling through a grove of orange trees, their blossoms scenting the air, their vibrant fruit winking at you from the branches. Not to mention, the orange trees in the Algarve region are the best I've ever had.
Portugal's spring is like being invited to Mother Nature's garden party; you bet she knows how to throw a good one! So pack your bags, dust off your sunglasses, and get ready to fall in love with the Portuguese spring. You'll come for the oranges, but stay for the charm!
