What Is The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
Activities In Portugal are based in Lisbon, we live and work here and are blessed in knowing this city like the back of our hands. Let us confidently answer What is the Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
Is Spring The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
Is spring the best time to visit Lisbon? Typically during the spring (April to June) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded? During these months, you can expect comfortable temperatures, with averages ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
The city comes alive with vibrant colors, and the gardens and parks are in full bloom.
Streets smell sweet with the Jacaranda mimosifolia is a stunning tree known for its vibrant purple-blue flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Lisbon is truly beautiful during this period, however, over the last few years, this season has become busier and busier.
The season is very popular with stag and hen parties, which you may or may not enjoy depending on your tastes. It is getting more difficult to find reasonable accommodation and the weather is still unpredictable. One weekend may be glorious yet the next torrential rain. Spring has become a gamble
The city comes alive with vibrant colors, and the gardens and parks are in full bloom.
Streets smell sweet with the Jacaranda mimosifolia is a stunning tree known for its vibrant purple-blue flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
Lisbon is truly beautiful during this period, however, over the last few years, this season has become busier and busier.
The season is very popular with stag and hen parties, which you may or may not enjoy depending on your tastes. It is getting more difficult to find reasonable accommodation and the weather is still unpredictable. One weekend may be glorious yet the next torrential rain. Spring has become a gamble
Is High Season The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
High season, which typically occurs during the summer months of July and August, is a popular time to visit Lisbon due to the warm weather and lively atmosphere. During high season, Lisbon experiences warm temperatures with averages around 28°C (82°F), making it ideal for beach visits and outdoor activities. If you enjoy the sun and warm weather, high season might be the best time for you.
Lisbon hosts various festivals and cultural events during high season, such as the Lisbon Book Fair, Festas de Lisboa (June festivities), and music festivals like NOS Alive. If you’re interested in participating in these events, high season would be a great time to visit.
Keep in mind that high season attracts a significant number of tourists, and popular tourist spots can become crowded and you will become hot and sweaty. Expect longer lines at attractions and higher hotel prices.
Due to the higher demand, accommodations and flights tend to be more expensive during high season. If you’re on a budget, you might find better deals during the off-peak seasons.
Lisbon hosts various festivals and cultural events during high season, such as the Lisbon Book Fair, Festas de Lisboa (June festivities), and music festivals like NOS Alive. If you’re interested in participating in these events, high season would be a great time to visit.
Keep in mind that high season attracts a significant number of tourists, and popular tourist spots can become crowded and you will become hot and sweaty. Expect longer lines at attractions and higher hotel prices.
Due to the higher demand, accommodations and flights tend to be more expensive during high season. If you’re on a budget, you might find better deals during the off-peak seasons.
Is Winter The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
Lisbon has a mild winter compared to many other European cities. Temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), and while it can be chilly, it’s generally not extremely cold. If you prefer cooler weather and don’t mind the occasional rain, winter can be a pleasant time to explore the city. Winter is considered the low season in Lisbon, meaning fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.
This can be advantageous if you prefer to explore attractions without large crowds and want to have a more relaxed experience. Since winter is the off-peak season, you can often find better deals on accommodations, flights, and attractions. Hotels and rentals tend to offer lower rates, and you may have more flexibility in terms of availability and options. Winter in Lisbon also coincides with the Xmas, which brings a festive atmosphere to the city. Christmas markets, decorations, and events can add a special charm to your visit.
The city is full of fun and charming Christmas markets.
You have the Wonderland Lisboa, Located in Eduardo VII Park, Wonderland Lisboa is one of the city’s most iconic markets. This event combines a traditional market with attractions such as an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and a Christmas village.
Rossio Christmas Market. Situated in Praça Dom Pedro IV (Rossio Square), this market offers a variety of stalls selling traditional Portuguese products, handicrafts, and seasonal delicacies.
Mercado da Baixa. Located in Praça da Figueira, this market offers a variety of stalls selling crafts, food, and Christmas gifts.
Thanks to these delightful markets Lisbon has become quite busy, with festive shoppers.
This can be advantageous if you prefer to explore attractions without large crowds and want to have a more relaxed experience. Since winter is the off-peak season, you can often find better deals on accommodations, flights, and attractions. Hotels and rentals tend to offer lower rates, and you may have more flexibility in terms of availability and options. Winter in Lisbon also coincides with the Xmas, which brings a festive atmosphere to the city. Christmas markets, decorations, and events can add a special charm to your visit.
The city is full of fun and charming Christmas markets.
You have the Wonderland Lisboa, Located in Eduardo VII Park, Wonderland Lisboa is one of the city’s most iconic markets. This event combines a traditional market with attractions such as an ice rink, a Ferris wheel, and a Christmas village.
Rossio Christmas Market. Situated in Praça Dom Pedro IV (Rossio Square), this market offers a variety of stalls selling traditional Portuguese products, handicrafts, and seasonal delicacies.
Mercado da Baixa. Located in Praça da Figueira, this market offers a variety of stalls selling crafts, food, and Christmas gifts.
Thanks to these delightful markets Lisbon has become quite busy, with festive shoppers.
Is Autumn The Best Time To Visit Lisbon?
In our opinion Autumn is by far the best time to visit Lisbon.
Autumn in Lisbon, which spans from September to November, offers pleasant temperatures with averages ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is generally mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Lisbon locals start hitting the beach in May and stop when the weather gets a little cooler at the end of October. In my opinion the best month to take a dip in the ocean is September when the sea temperatures are around 20 degrees.
During autumn, the cityscape of Lisbon is adorned with vibrant colors as the leaves on the trees change to shades of red, orange, and yellow. This creates a picturesque backdrop for your visit and adds to the overall charm of the city. After the peak tourist season of summer, autumn brings fewer crowds to Lisbon. You can enjoy popular attractions, such as Belem Tower, the Alfama district, and the Jeronimos Monastery, without the large crowds and long queues that are common during high season.
Autumn in Lisbon also coincides with various harvest festivals and cultural events. The city celebrates events like the Lisbon Wine Harvest and Feira da Luz, which showcase local traditions, food, and music. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience Portuguese culture and traditions.
As the demand for accommodations and flights decreases during autumn, you’re more likely to find better deals and lower prices for hotels, vacation rentals, and flights. This can make your trip more budget-friendly compared to the peak summer months.
Autumn combines pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making it an excellent time to visit Lisbon. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing local festivals, autumn offers a delightful and well-rounded experience.
Autumn in Lisbon, which spans from September to November, offers pleasant temperatures with averages ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The weather is generally mild and comfortable, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Lisbon locals start hitting the beach in May and stop when the weather gets a little cooler at the end of October. In my opinion the best month to take a dip in the ocean is September when the sea temperatures are around 20 degrees.
During autumn, the cityscape of Lisbon is adorned with vibrant colors as the leaves on the trees change to shades of red, orange, and yellow. This creates a picturesque backdrop for your visit and adds to the overall charm of the city. After the peak tourist season of summer, autumn brings fewer crowds to Lisbon. You can enjoy popular attractions, such as Belem Tower, the Alfama district, and the Jeronimos Monastery, without the large crowds and long queues that are common during high season.
Autumn in Lisbon also coincides with various harvest festivals and cultural events. The city celebrates events like the Lisbon Wine Harvest and Feira da Luz, which showcase local traditions, food, and music. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to experience Portuguese culture and traditions.
As the demand for accommodations and flights decreases during autumn, you’re more likely to find better deals and lower prices for hotels, vacation rentals, and flights. This can make your trip more budget-friendly compared to the peak summer months.
Autumn combines pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, fewer crowds, and lower prices, making it an excellent time to visit Lisbon. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions, enjoying outdoor activities, or experiencing local festivals, autumn offers a delightful and well-rounded experience.
Do you agree with us? Tell us when is your best time to visit Lisbon.
Lisbon Weather
LISBOA WEATHERHow To Get To Lisbon
By Air ✈️
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) is Lisbon’s main international airport.
Direct flights from major European cities and worldwide destinations.
Take the metro (Red Line), a bus, or an Bolt to the city centre, expect to pay around 10-15 euros.
By Train 🚆
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
From Porto, Algarve, and other Portuguese cities: Take the Alfa Pendular (AP) or Intercidades (IC) train to Lisbon’s Oriente or Santa Apolónia stations.
From Spain: Night trains and connections via Madrid or Vigo offer routes to Lisbon.
By Bus 🚌
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
Companies like FlixBus, ALSA, Rede Expressos provide routes from major cities across Portugal and Europe.
Buses from Porto to Lisbon take about 3-4 hours.
By Car 🚗
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
From Porto, take the A1 motorway (about 3 hours).
From Spain, the A6 and A5 motorways connect Lisbon to Madrid and beyond.
By Boat 🚢
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
Cruise ships dock at Lisbon’s Port, near the city center.
Tagus River cruises are a great way to arrive in style from nearby coastal towns.
When To Visit Lisbon?
What are the Best Months To Visit Lisbon?
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Late April, May, June & July
* The weather is warm but not too hot: May (18-22°C), June (20-25°C), July (25-30°C).
* You will get sunny days with little rain, that are perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the Douro River.
*Santo António Festival (June 12-13): Lisbon’s biggest celebration fills the streets with vibrant parades, lively music, and the delicious aroma of grilled sardines. Join the fun as people dance, sing, and enjoy the city’s most festive night! This is one of the best things to do in Lisbon.
*Summer Sunsets in Lisbon: During these months, the sun sets around 9 PM, giving you extra time to explore the city’s viewpoints, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tagus River, and discover hidden gems in Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 1 Day
1️⃣ Visit Rossio Railway Station – Admire its stunning neo-Manueline architecture.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
2️⃣ Discover Sé de Lisboa – Lisbon’s historic cathedral with breathtaking views of the city.
3️⃣ Step Inside São Roque Church – A hidden gem with one of the most extravagant baroque interiors.
4️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Wander through the charming, narrow streets of Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
5️⃣ Walk Across Ponte 25 de Abril – Lisbon’s iconic suspension bridge, often compared to San Francisco’s Golden Gate.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Taste Portugal’s famous custard tarts at the legendary Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Cruise – Enjoy Lisbon’s skyline from the water at sunset.
8️⃣ Find One of Lisbon’s Best Hidden Gems – The secret viewpoint at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view.
Lisbon Itinerary Ideas 2 Days
Day One – Exploring Lisbon
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
1️⃣ Discover Belém – Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, two of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks.
2️⃣Explore LX Factory – A trendy creative hub filled with street art, unique shops, and great cafés.
3️⃣ Stroll Along the River to Cais do Sodré – Enjoy a scenic walk along the Tagus River, passing street performers, cafés, and great viewpoints.
4️⃣Walk Along Praça do Comércio – One of the most beautiful squares in Europe, right by the river.
5️⃣ Explore Alfama District – Stroll through the oldest and most charming neighborhood of Lisbon.
6️⃣ Try Pastel de Nata – Indulge in Lisbon’s famous custard tart at Pastéis de Belém.
7️⃣ Take a Tagus River Sunset Cruise – Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the water.
8️⃣ Hidden Gem Alert! – End your day at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a secret viewpoint with stunning sunset views.
Day Two – Day Trip to Sintra
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
1️⃣ Visit Palácio da Pena – Sintra’s fairy-tale palace with colorful towers and breathtaking views.
2️⃣ Explore Quinta da Regaleira – A mystical estate with hidden tunnels and the famous Initiation Well.
3️⃣ Check Out Castelo dos Mouros – A medieval hilltop fortress with panoramic views.
4️⃣ Wander Through Sintra’s Historic Center – Discover charming streets and traditional Portuguese pastries.
5️⃣ Visit Palácio de Monserrate – A lesser-known gem with stunning architecture and lush gardens.
6️⃣ Try Travesseiros de Sintra – A delicious local pastry you can’t miss.
7️⃣ Relax at Praia da Adraga – If time allows, head to this breathtaking beach just outside Sintra.
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Things to Know Before You Go
The Weather Can Be Unpredictable During Winter & Spring
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Lisbon enjoys a mild climate, but the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the winter and spring months.
It’s always a good idea to carry a light jacket or an umbrella, even if the forecast looks clear, and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Lisbon is Walkable, But Be Ready for Hills, 7 of them Actually
Lisbon is a fantastic city to explore on foot, but be prepared for steep hills and cobblestone streets! Neighborhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado have plenty of inclines, staircases, and narrow alleys.
Top Lisbon Travel Tip, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and get ready for a bit of a leg workout as you discover the city’s hidden corners and breathtaking viewpoints. 🚶♂️
Tipping is Appreciated but Not Obligatory
In Lisbon, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 5-10% is common, especially if the service is good. In cafes and bars, leaving a few coins is also a nice gesture, given the minimu wage in Portugal is still under 900 euros in 2025.
Credit Cards Not Widely Accepted
While Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere, American Express, UnionPay, and Discover may not be accepted at smaller shops or restaurants. It’s a good idea to carry cash or use payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay as alternatives.
Safety In Lisbon
Lisbon is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like trams and markets. Avoid dark, isolated spots at night, and always keep an eye on your belongings.
In case you need them the Tourist Police Station in Lisbon is located near the Cruise Ship Docking, which is a central and busy area for tourists. The specific address is:
Polícia de Turismo
Doca, Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Edifício SW, R. do Jardim do Tabaco, 1000-651 Lisboa
Written by Clara R.
“I’ve been lucky enough to call Portugal home since 2011, living in the Algarve, Lisbon, and the Porto area. Every year, I make it a mission to travel around this beautiful country, discovering new places, hidden gems, and the best local spots. Portugal never stops surprising me!.”
