Understand the Portuguese Weather
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min read
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Portugal's weather is one of the main reasons it is so popular with expats, retirees, and digital nomads.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year on average, the country has a diverse climate, ranging from the lush, wet north to the dry and warm south, as well as a distinct island environment in Madeira and the Azores.
This article will examine Portugal's seasonal weather fluctuations and provide a rundown analysis of each location, ensuring you're ready to choose where you'll live and everything Portugal's weather has to offer!
How is the weather in Portugal?
Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, with some variances throughout its areas.
The northern sections enjoy a temperate marine climate, while the south has a significantly hotter Mediterranean-influenced environment. Coastal areas are often colder than inland places because of the Atlantic Ocean's moderating effects.
Summing up, rainy days and sunshine are very well divided, with the North getting more rain and the South getting more sunshine.
- Hours of sunshine: Sunshine hours vary per location, ranging from 2,300 to 3,500 per year.
- Rainy days: Rainy days range from 50 in the south to 150 in the north.
How are the seasons in Portugal?
The four seasons are well-known in Portugal, yet their intensity and distinctness vary widely by region. Coastal seasonal variations are less noticeable than inland ones.
Spring in Portugal (March–May)
Spring is mild and pleasant across much of the country, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F-72°F).
Coastal areas such as Lisbon and Porto begin to experience more sunshine, while the northern regions remain somewhat moist with intermittent rain.
This is an excellent time to visit the country because the scenery is lush and the tourist crowds are still manageable.
⚠️ Pollen is more noticeable in the spring and affects those with allergies. Pollen alerts are often informed through media outlets.
⚠️ April is popularly considered a wet month, though it is officially outside the rainy months. When the month approaches, it's common to hear "Abril, águas mil" or "Abril, chuvas mil" (April, water in the thousands).
Summer in Portugal (June-August)
Summer in Portugal can be quite hot, particularly in the south and inland regions like the Alentejo.
The Atlantic Ocean keeps coastal places like the Algarve and Lisbon more mild, with typical temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F-86°F). Inland locations like Évora can attain temperatures of 40°C (104°F).
Rain is infrequent throughout this season, making it ideal for beachgoing and outdoor activities.
Autumn in Portugal (September–November)
Autumn is often warm at first, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 25°C (57°F-77°F).
Coastal areas, particularly in the south, have longer summers, with warm weather continuing until October.
In late October, the northern regions, particularly Porto, known for its wet autumns, see an increase in rainfall.
Winter in Portugal (December-February)
Winters in Portugal are moderate on the coast but can be cold inland.
The average temperature ranges from 8°C to 15°C (46°F-59°F). Snowfall is uncommon except in the mountainous sections of Serra da Estrela, where winter sports enthusiasts go to ski and snowboard.
Rain falls more frequently in the north, especially in Porto and Braga, where substantial rainfall can occur in December.
Coastal locations undergo smoother transitions between seasons with gentler fluctuations, whereas inland regions suffer more distinct seasonal shifts.
The Algarve and Alentejo, in particular, have lengthy, hot summers and mild winters, making seasonal boundaries less defined.
How is the weather in the regions of Portugal?
Portugal's climate varies greatly between locations due to its diverse geography and closeness to the Atlantic Ocean.
From the damp and cold north to the scorching and dry south, each region has a unique weather experience throughout the year.
How is the weather in the Norte region (Northern Portugal)?
Northern Portugal, which includes Porto, Braga, and the Douro Valley, receives more rain than the rest of the nation. It is cooler and wetter due to the Atlantic's impact, making it lush and green all year.
- Rainy days: average around 150 per year.
- Sunshine hours: around 2,200 per year.
(H4) Summer in Northern Portugal
Summers in the north are pleasant but not too hot, with typical highs of 25°C in towns such as Porto. Atlantic winds assist to soften the temperature, making northern Portugal an ideal summer resort for people seeking temperate heat.
Winter in Northern Portugal
Winters are chilly and damp, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C. December is the rainiest month in Porto.
What do I need to know about Northern Portugal's weather?
People frequently describe Porto as having "nine months of rain and three months of sun," particularly due to the continuous winter rainfall. But fear not, it's still considered way sunnier than most of Europe.
How is the weather in the Centro region (Central Portugal)?
Coimbra and the Serra da Estrela mountain range are located in central Portugal, which is known for its pleasant coastal climate and cold, snowy winters inland.
- Rainy days: average around 120 per year.
- Sunshine hours: approximately 2,500 hours per year.
Summer in Central Portugal
Summers in central Portugal are hot, with temperatures reaching 35°C inland. Coastal cities like Aveiro benefit from the Atlantic's cooling effects, making them attractive summer visitors.
Winter in Central Portugal
Winters in central Portugal are notoriously unpredictable. Coastal areas remain moderate, although higher elevations in the Serra do Estrela frequently receive snowfall, attracting people for winter activities.
What do I need to know about Central Portugal's weather?
Coimbra and Aveiro both have a balanced climate, with locals commending them for having distinct summer and winter seasons without the extremes of the Alentejo or the wet weather of the north.
How is the weather in the Lisboa region (Lisbon region)?
Lisbon (the region, not only the city!) has a Mediterranean climate that includes warm winters and hot, sunny summers. Its proximity to the Atlantic causes its climate to be more temperate than that of inland locations.
- Rainy days: average around 110 per year.
- Sunshine hours: More than 2,800 each year.
Summer in the Lisbon region
Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 28°C to 32°C. Even in the hottest months, the region enjoys cooler breezes from nearby beaches like Cascais and Estoril.
Winter in the Lisbon region
Winter in Lisbon is pleasant, with temperatures rarely falling below 10 degrees Celsius. Rain is most common between November and February, but there are still plenty of sunny days.
What do I need to know about Lisbon's weather?
Lisbon is particularly appealing to expats due to its superb environment, which combines warm summers with mild winters and around 300 sunny days each year.
How is the weather in the Alentejo region (Alentejo region)?
Alentejo, an inland region, is noted for its hot summers and moderate winters. Évora, for example, is among the warmest cities in the country.
- Rainy days: approximately 70 days.
- Sunshine hours: approximately 3,000 hours per year.
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Nomad Gate Community (Portugal Golden Visa section)
People interested in the Portugal Golden Visa program particularly benefit from the Nomad Gate Community, which caters to global citizens looking for residence or investment options.
The forum discusses legal and financial advice on gaining residency through investment, real estate prospects, and negotiating Portuguese bureaucracy. It's a go-to portal for professionals and investors seeking extensive information on this particular visa option.
Internations (Regional groups)
Internations maintains a strong presence in Portugal, with specific groups in major cities like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve.
Aside from online discussions, they host in-person events where expats can interact, network, and form personal and business connections.
Just Landed (Portugal section)
Just Landed is a comprehensive resource for expats moving to Portugal, including guidance on important areas such as
- finding housing in Portugal
- creating a bank account in Portugal
- and accessing healthcare in Portugal.
The Portugal-specific forum is lively, with users frequently sharing their experiences with visas and legal papers while integrating into local society. It's a wonderful beginning place for anyone who has just arrived in Portugal and is looking for practical guidance from other expats.
Expats Portugal Forum
The Expats Portugal Forum, one of the most well-known forums for expats in Portugal, is a go-to place for in-depth talks about relocating, purchasing property, and navigating the Portuguese healthcare and tax systems.
The site has current conversations about post-Brexit restrictions for British expats, visa possibilities for non-EU people, and community-building events. It is particularly popular among seniors and families, as it provides both practical advice and social networking opportunities.
British Expats (Portugal section)
British Expats, a very active platform with a particular section for Portugal, provides a plethora of information specifically for UK citizens.
The topics range from residency after Brexit and tax ramifications to locating British goods in Portugal and settling there with children. This forum is ideal for UK citizens seeking a friendly group that understands the specific issues that British expats experience in Portugal.
Expat Exchange Forum (Portugal section)
Expat Exchange offers a broader expat perspective, with an emphasis on community-driven advice.
The Portugal forum is extremely active, with people discussing issues such as locating foreign schools, adjusting to Portuguese culture, and real estate investments.
The forum includes country guides and extensive user experiences, making it a valuable resource for both long-term and short-term expats.
Expat Focus (Portugal section)
Expat Focus provides in-depth articles and recommendations on relocating to Portugal, as well as a dedicated community where expats may discuss their experiences. The forum discusses important themes such as learning Portuguese, navigating local bureaucracy, and getting healthcare.
The forum, which heavily emphasizes practical guidance and tools, is particularly beneficial for novices navigating the challenges of living as an expat in Portugal.
Easy Expat (Portugal section)
Easy Expat is a well-known platform that helps expats settle into their new home country. The Portugal area includes guidance concerning important topics such as housing, work, banking, and moving logistics.
The site is fairly involved, with users talking about everything from finding lodgings in Lisbon to dealing with Portuguese bureaucracy. Easy Expat also provides city guides with helpful recommendations for expats relocating to major cities such as Lisbon and Porto, making it a must-have resource for anyone looking for thorough assistance throughout their move to Portugal.
Reddit Forums
r/PortugalExpats
This Reddit community offers the most comprehensive and suitable forum for any immigrant seeking to settle in Portugal or those who are already there.
Users in this forum regularly discuss a variety of topics, from housing and neighborhood tips to tax and visa clarifications. This should be one of your essential forums to consult.
r/Portugal
Both expats and locals use this subreddit. Expect conversations (in Portuguese, as well) about current events, recommendations for local services, cultural tips, and guidance on managing bureaucratic processes.
There are many firsthand accounts of Portuguese traditions, daily life, and shifting logistics.
r/Expat
Although broader, r/expat contains regular posts about migrating to Portugal, with people discussing many facets of expat life, such as taxes, legal paperwork, housing, and health insurance.
r/WantOut
If you're still considering a relocation or searching for country comparisons, this subreddit is a wonderful place to obtain input on why people chose to relocate to Portugal over other countries.
Are there any Chat Groups for expats in Portugal?
These platforms are best suited for more localized and niche debates.
These groups, which are frequently available on WhatsApp and Telegram, encourage smaller communities and allow for more intimate and quick talks. Here are a few notable:
- Lisbon Freelancers & Digital Nomads (Whatsapp/Telegram): This group is for digital nomads and freelancers based in Lisbon. It's an excellent resource for finding co-working locations, networking events, and advice on obtaining a stable internet connection.
- Algarve Real Estate (WhatsApp): A WhatsApp group for those interested in buying, selling, or renting property in the Algarve region. Real estate professionals and foreigners who have purchased property frequently post on the site.
- Porto Foodies (Telegram): A fun group for food enthusiasts in Porto. Members exchange restaurant ideas, recipes, and information about food markets and events in the city.
- Central Portugal Homesteaders (WhatsApp): For individuals relocating to Portugal's more rural, central regions, this group is an excellent resource for learning about farming, sustainability, and off-grid life.
Final words
Joining expat forums, Facebook groups, WhatsApp, and Telegram channels is one of the most effective ways to make your move to Portugal easier and more pleasurable. Whether you're relocating to a bustling city like Lisbon or a quiet village in Alentejo, these communities provide everything from housing advice to social events to help you adjust to your new life.
By actively engaging and following group rules, you'll gain access to a wealth of practical knowledge and make crucial connections, making your trip to Portugal easier and more satisfying.
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