Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, so there’s no truly bad time to go. The choice is between beach weather, festivals, sightseeing comfort and price. This guide goes through the year.
Lisbon weather and crowds by month
| Month | Average high (approx.) | Rain | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | Wetter | Low |
| February | 16°C | Wetter | Low (Carnival) |
| March | 19°C | Some | Medium |
| April | 20°C | Some | High at Easter |
| May | 23°C | Little | High |
| June | 26°C | Very little | High (festivals) |
| July | 28°C | Almost none | Very high |
| August | 29°C | Almost none | Very high |
| September | 27°C | Little | High |
| October | 23°C | Some | Medium |
| November | 18°C | Wettest | Low |
| December | 15°C | Wetter | Low, busy at New Year |
Temperatures are typical averages; the Atlantic sea stays cool (about 15–20°C) even in summer.
Seasons explained
Spring (March–May)
Jacaranda trees bloom purple in late May and early June, terraces fill up and days are warm without the summer heat. Easter week is busy. A great time for the Sintra day trip.
Summer (June–August)
June is festival month: the Festas de Lisboa, peaking on the night of 12–13 June (Santo António), fill Alfama and Graça with music, street parties and grilled sardines. July and August are hot and crowded, but great for beaches at Cascais and Costa da Caparica. Ride Tram 28 early in the morning to avoid queues.
Autumn (September–November)
September and October are excellent: warm days, warm-ish sea and fewer visitors. November brings more rain but low prices.
Winter (December–February)
Mild by European standards, with sunny days between rainy spells. Christmas lights and New Year’s Eve at Praça do Comércio draw crowds; the rest of winter is quiet and cheap.
Best time for…
| If you want… | Go in |
|---|---|
| Best weather for sightseeing | May, late September–October |
| Beaches | July–September |
| Festivals | June (Santo António, 12–13 June) |
| Lowest prices | November–February (outside holidays) |
| Fewest crowds | January–February, November |
Tips for any season
- Book hotels early for June and summer — see where to stay in Lisbon or compare hotels for your dates.
- Bring a light jacket: evenings by the river can be windy.
- Wear shoes with grip — the stone pavements get slippery.
- Budget for the €4 per night tourist tax.
- Combine Lisbon with Spain: see our Madrid and Barcelona guides.
More Lisbon guides
- Lisbon itinerary
- Best things to do in Lisbon
- Where to stay in Lisbon
- Sintra day trip from Lisbon
- Tram 28 guide
- Lisbon airport to city centre
- Lisbon tourist tax
- Lisbon travel guide
FAQ: Best time to visit Lisbon
What is the best month to visit Lisbon?
May and late September–October offer warm weather with fewer crowds.
Is Lisbon too hot in summer?
July and August are hot (often around 28–30°C or more) but usually bearable thanks to the Atlantic breeze.
What is the cheapest time to visit Lisbon?
November to February, outside Christmas and New Year.
When are the Lisbon festivals?
Throughout June, peaking on the night of 12–13 June for Santo António.
Can you swim in Lisbon?
Yes, at nearby beaches like Cascais and Costa da Caparica, best from July to September.
Plan your trip to Lisbon
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