The Best Time To Visit Portugal

Portugal, a land of charming cities, breathtaking landscapes, gastronomic wonders and centuries-old traditions, is a captivating destination for travelers seeking unique cultural, culinary and outdoor experiences.

While it is possible to enjoy Portugal year-round, our preferred activities like city exploration, whale watching, private boating and vineyard tours, are best enjoyed during the summer or shoulder months.

Portugal’s Highlights

Portugal is known for its vast collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites, lush vineyards, world-class restaurants, charming medieval towns and verdant landscapes.

Portugal’s capital city, Lisbon, is a vibrant metropolis that offers historic neighborhoods, architectural gems, a collection of art galleries, and gastronomical excellence.

Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, is known for its iconic riverfront, historic wine cellars, and stunning bridges. It’s a place where wine lovers can indulge in some of the world’s finest port wines while soaking up the scenic beauty along the Douro River.

One of the world’s most beautiful wine regions and a UNESCO world heritage site, the Douro Valley is the jewel in the crown of Portugal’s immaculate countryside. Explore the valley by boat, hiking through the hills, or simply by visiting the numerous vineyards for exclusive tasting experiences

Nestled off the coast, you’ll find the Azores, a group of volcanic islands with otherworldly landscapes. With lush greenery, geothermal springs, and dramatic crater lakes, the Azores are perfect for adventure journeys and tranquil escapes alike.

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The Best Time To Visit Lisbon

The best time to visit Lisbon is from March through November as you avoid Europe’s winter chill. If you want to avoid the scorching temperatures that often come during the peak summer months, journey to Lisbon from March through June or September through November.

During these shoulder months, daytime temperatures range from 52 – 79°F, while this can increase to 82°F during July and August.

The milder weather conditions are ideal for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Palacio Ludovice, as well as the Jerónimos Monastery and Tower of Belém which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

You can also visit Sintra’s fairytale-like Pena Palace. We can arrange for a private tour before it opens to the public so you can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site in private.

From March through November, we recommend visiting the coastal city of Cascais. Here, you can discover some of Lisbon’s most beautiful beaches before wandering through highlights like Rossio Square, the Church of Saint Roque, Castelo de São Jorge and the Se Cathedral.

A great way to enjoy a break from the summer’s peak temperatures is with visits to some of Europe’s most famous museums, such as the Calouste Gulbenkian and the Berardo Collection.

Journey to Lisbon in June and you might catch a glimpse of the city’s annual Festas de Lisboa where the streets come alive with parades, live music, and delicious local food.

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The Best Time To Visit Porto

The best time to visit Porto is from March to November, with the city offering slightly milder conditions than Lisbon. Average temperatures during this time range from 46-75°F, with May through October offering average lows above 50°F.

To experience Porto with fewer crowds, consider visiting in spring or fall as the weather is still pleasant, yet Porto’s charming streets and nearby vineyards are less frequented.

It is possible to enjoy the highlights of Porto from March through November. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy visiting nearby Coimbra where it is possible to visit the Baroque style Joanina Library at the Universidade de Coimbra. Here, we can arrange for a private experience in the library, including exclusive access to the Sao Miguel Chapel and books from the 16th century.

Porto is known for its exquisite food scene. Throughout the year, you can embark on gastronomic sightseeing tours with food tailored to your tastes. As you explore the city, passing by the historic UNESCO status waterfront neighborhood, stop at small boutique shops to sample traditional dishes of cheese, salami, sardines, bread and local wine.

No luxury tour to Porto would be complete without a VIP port tasting. Graham’s Port Lodge can be visited year round and we can organize a VIP tour and tasting before a delicious dinner with views overlooking the Luís I Bridge.

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The Best Time To Visit The Douro Valley

We recommend visiting the Douro Valley from March through November, although the landscapes will offer something different throughout the year.

Visit the Douro Valley from April through June for vibrant greenery and blooming flowers. Expect daytime temperatures ranging from 60-77°F, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and private boat tours along the Douro River.

For views of grapevines in full growth and verdant landscapes, visit the Douro Valley from July through August. Temperatures will be at their highest, and could exceed 83°F. This is a great time of year to enjoy delicious dining and wine tasting experiences.

During harvest season, from September to October, the vineyards transform into a golden tapestry as the lush green leaves turn to rich hues of gold, amber, and crimson. This is a fantastic time to witness harvesting firsthand as you enjoy tours of local vineyards.

Visiting the Douro Valley between March and November opens the door to plenty of incredible outdoor activities and culinary experiences.

Enjoy a private tasting of rare Tawny ports at a local, exclusive vineyard, enjoy fresh homemade bread at a bakery in the heart of the picturesque village of Provesende, indulge in an exclusive lunch and wine pairing on the terrace of a charming wine estate, and experience a private cooking demonstration at a stunning historical quinta.

If you’re ready for adventure, embark on a private boating excursion down the Douro River and venture out on a 3-mile downhill hike through local vineyards and vibrant terraces.

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The Best Time To Visit The Azores

The Azores are known for their world-class hiking trails, bustling sealife, UNESCO listed volcanic vineyards and charming towns. Set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this Portuguese archipelago is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The best time to visit the Azores is April through October as these months bring pleasant weather, longer daylight hours, and perfect conditions to enjoy the islands’ outdoor activities…

São Miguel Island

Visit São Miguel Island and embark on a bespoke itinerary of epic adventures. We recommend a moderate hike towards Pico de Carvao, passing stunning lakes, the Muro das Nove Janelas ancient aqueduct, and Sete Cidades, a massive volcanic crater. Along the way, stop at a viewpoint of the magnificent Azul and Verde Lake. Make the most of the ideal weather conditions and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Other highlights, including the village of Mosteiros, natural pools, black sand beaches and Ferraria, a unique thermal pool, can also be enjoyed from April through October.

Another incredible hike for this time of year is the trek around the foothills of Lagoa das Furnas. This beautiful lake is surrounded by captivating forests, hot springs and fumaroles. Break up the excursion with a stop in the village of Furnas to try cozido das Furnas, a local speciality of meats and vegetables cooked in a cauldron which is lowered into volcanic vents in the ground.

São Miguel is the only place in the world where pineapples are grown in greenhouses and is home to over 6,000 plantations. Throughout the year, it is possible to visit one of the few plantations that are open to the public for a private tour.

While the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden can be enjoyed year round, we particularly love the vibrant colors on display from April through May as many of the plants are in full bloom.

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Pico Island

Pico Island is another great region for outdoor adventures in the Azores for journeys taking place between April and October.

Before heading to Pico Island, visit the highlights of Faial, including the outstanding Capelinhos Volcano and Natural Reserve of the Caldeira of Faial. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness an impressive variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Azores which are particularly eye-catching from April through October.

Pico Island is known for its world-class whale and dolphin watching experiences as the area is said to host over 24 species of resident and migratory cetaceans. Peak season for this adventure is April through October.

Embark on a private whale and dolphin watching tour between April and June to catch migratory species like blue whales, fin whales, and sei whales. Visit from June to October and keep an eye out for common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and sperm whales, residents of the Azores that can be seen throughout the year, common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins, are also frequently sighted.

The unique landscapes of Pico Island have something to offer year round with highlights like the volcanic vineyards transforming with the seasons. Enjoy a private trek and take in incredible views of the vineyards, orchards and breathtaking landscapes throughout the year.

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Discover The Best Time To Visit Portugal

Portugal’s beautiful natural landscapes, rich culture, epic outdoor adventures, and exquisite food scene can all be enjoyed most of the year. Based on your travel preferences and unique interests, your Blue Parallel Travel Expert can advise the best suited regions and the best time of year to visit.

For more information on our bespoke Portugal tours, contact one of our Travel Experts today.

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