WHEN TO TRAVEL TO PORTUGAL

Choosing the right period for your trip to Portugal can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and peak tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisé en Portugal

Location

Climate

January 5→13.6°C
2.07mm
7:47→17:36
February 5.5→15°C
2.44mm
7:23→18:10
March 7.2→17.3°C
2.67mm
6:48→18:49
April 9.5→19.8°C
2.69mm
6:53→20:12
May 12.2→24.4°C
1.56mm
6:17→20:41
June 14.5→27.9°C
0.5mm
6:05→21:02
July 16.5→31.9°C
0.12mm
6:18→20:58
August 16.6→32°C
0.14mm
6:45→20:28
September 15.5→28.5°C
1.24mm
7:13→19:42
October 12.9→23.4°C
2.76mm
7:35→18:47
November 8.6→16.8°C
2.91mm
7:15→17:20
December 6.5→14.8°C
2.84mm
7:43→17:13
5→13.6°C
5.5→15°C
7.2→17.3°C
9.5→19.8°C
12.2→24.4°C
14.5→27.9°C
16.5→31.9°C
16.6→32°C
15.5→28.5°C
12.9→23.4°C
8.6→16.8°C
6.5→14.8°C
Jan 7:47→17:36
Feb 7:23→18:10
Mar 6:48→18:49
Apr 6:53→20:12
May 6:17→20:41
Jun 6:05→21:02
Jul 6:18→20:58
Aug 6:45→20:28
Sep 7:13→19:42
Oct 7:35→18:47
Nov 7:15→17:20
Dec 7:43→17:13
2.07mm
2.44mm
2.67mm
2.69mm
1.56mm
0.5mm
0.12mm
0.14mm
1.24mm
2.76mm
2.91mm
2.84mm
Portugal is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, thanks to its pleasant climate, magnificent beaches, rich culture and historic heritage.

Temperatures and climate in Portugal

Portugal's Mediterranean climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures vary according to region and altitude:
  • In the northThe climate is wetter and cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 13°C in January to 25°C in August.
  • In the centerTemperatures are slightly higher, ranging from 15°C in January to 28°C in August.
  • In the south (Algarve region), the climate is typically Mediterranean, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C in January to 30°C in August.
The ideal time to enjoy the sun and beaches varies from region to region: May to October in the north and center, and April to November in the south.

Major cultural events

Portugal is a country rich in traditions and cultural events. Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main festivals and events not to be missed:
  • The Carnival (February or March): celebrated all over the country, with parades, masked balls and lots of festive entertainment.
  • La Semana Santa (March or April): a week of religious celebrations marking the Passion of Christ, especially in Braga and Porto.
  • Midsummer Festivities (June 23): a popular festival celebrated throughout the country, with bonfires, concerts, dances and parades. The biggest event is held in Porto.
  • Lisbon Fado Festival (June): a not-to-be-missed event for fans of this traditional Portuguese music.
  • Algarve International Film Festival (June): a film festival showcasing directors and films from around the world.
  • Madeira Wine Festival (September): a week-long celebration of wine and local produce, with tastings, concerts and exhibitions.

Public holidays in Portugal

Throughout the year, several public holidays are celebrated in Portugal. Here are the main dates to remember:
  • January 1st New Year's Day
  • April 25 Freedom Day, commemorating the Carnation Revolution of 1974
  • May 1st Labour Day
  • June 10 Portugal Day, celebration of the Portuguese nation and its culture
  • August 15 Assumption of Mary
  • October 5 Republic Day, commemorating the proclamation of the Republic in 1910
  • November 1st : Toussaint
  • December 1st Independence Day, marking Portugal's independence from Spain in 1640
  • December 8 Immaculate Conception
  • December 25 : Christmas
During these holidays, transport and shopping may be more limited, so it's important to take these dates into account when planning your trip.

Low and high season

As in most tourist destinations, Portugal has low and high seasons:
  • Low season (November to March): this period offers attractive prices on accommodation and flights, but temperatures are less favorable for enjoying the beaches. Nevertheless, it's an excellent time to visit the sights without the summer crowds.
  • Mid season (April, May, June, September, October): temperatures become milder, and prices remain relatively affordable. Cultural events and public holidays are also plentiful during this period.
  • High season (July and August): the most popular period for tourists, with ideal temperatures for enjoying the beaches. Prices of accommodation and flights rise, and tourist attractions can be very crowded.

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

Statistics on the foreign population in Portugal

According to Portugal's National Statistics Institute (INE), the country's resident foreign population has grown significantly in recent years. In 2020, there will be around 590,000 foreigners living in PortugalThis represents an increase of 12% over the previous year. The most represented nationalities were Brazilians, Cape Verdeans, Ukrainians, French and English.

The main reasons for installation

There are many reasons why foreigners choose to settle in Portugal:
  • Quality of life Portugal offers a very pleasant lifestyle with a mild climate, beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine.
  • Career opportunities : Certain sectors, such as tourism, technology and energy, offer numerous job opportunities for skilled workers.
  • Tax advantages Portugal offers tax advantages for non-habitual residents (RNH) and retirees, attracting many foreigners with strong purchasing power.

Most popular visas in Portugal

Portugal offers different categories of visas depending on the reason for stay:

Schengen short-stay visa

This visa allows you to stay in the Schengen area, of which Portugal is a member, for a maximum of 90 days over a 180-day period. It is mainly used by tourists and business travelers. In 2019, almost 298,000 Schengen visas issued by Portuguese consulatesrepresenting the majority of visas granted.

Work and student visas

These two visa categories are intended for people wishing to work or study in Portugal for more than 90 days. In 2019, there were around 21,000 work visas and 6,000 student visas issued.

Visa Golden (Golden Visa)

The Golden Visa program, launched in 2012, is a residency authorization scheme for foreign investors. To obtain this visa, investors must make a real estate investment of at least 500,000 euros or create at least 10 jobs. Since its inception, the program has attracted over 9,000 investors and generated nearly 5 billion euros investment in Portugal.

International tourism in Portugal

Tourism is a key sector of the Portuguese economy, accounting for around 17% of national GDP. In 2019, the country welcomed 27 million international touristsThis represents an increase of 7.3% over the previous year. The main visitor nationalities were British, Spanish, French, German and Brazilian.

Foreigners' favourite destinations

The regions most popular with tourists are :
  • The Algarve Portugal: This region of southern Portugal is famous for its golden beaches, spectacular cliffs and world-renowned golf courses.
  • Lisbon Portugal's capital seduces visitors with its historic charm, lively nightlife and proximity to the Atlantic coast.
  • Porto Located in the north of the country, this cultural and gastronomic city is particularly appreciated for its wines and its UNESCO World Heritage monuments.