Lisbon Weather

Overview

Lisbon is famous for its sunshine, bright skies, and comfortable climate all year round. The Portuguese capital enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Thanks to its location on the Atlantic coast, Lisbon avoids the extreme heat that affects southern Portugal while maintaining pleasantly warm conditions ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and seaside escapes.

With an average of 280 to 300 days of sunshine per year, Lisbon is often called the “City of Light.” Even in winter, sunlight reflects beautifully off the city’s pastel facades and ceramic tiles, creating the golden glow that photographers and travelers adore.

Quick Climate Facts

• Climate Type: Mediterranean (Csa — Köppen Classification)
• Average Annual Temperature: 17°C (62°F)
• Hottest Months: July and August (average highs 28–30°C / 82–86°F)
• Coldest Months: December and January (average lows 8–10°C / 46–50°F)
• Wettest Month: November
• Driest Months: July and August
• Average Annual Rainfall: Around 700 mm (27.5 inches)
• Average Sea Temperature: 17–20°C (63–68°F)
• Sunshine Hours: Over 2,800 annually

Season by Season Weather

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Spring is one of the best times to visit Lisbon. The city awakens with fresh blooms, lively street cafés, and comfortable temperatures between 17°C and 24°C (63–75°F). March can bring a few rainy days, but by April, sunshine dominates. Outdoor terraces reopen, the parks of Eduardo VII and Estufa Fria are lush, and walking up Lisbon’s famous hills becomes pleasantly breezy rather than tiring.

Light jackets and layers are perfect for evenings. The Atlantic waters remain cool for swimming, but beach walks in Cascais and Costa da Caparica are already popular.

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Summer in Lisbon is warm, dry, and sunny almost every day. Daytime highs average 28–30°C (82–86°F), with occasional peaks above 35°C (95°F) during heatwaves. However, the **Atlantic breeze** keeps the heat manageable — it’s rarely as hot as inland southern Portugal. Nights are pleasantly mild, around 18–20°C (64–68°F), making alfresco dining a delight.

June welcomes the famous Festas de Lisboa (Saint Anthony Festival), filling Alfama’s streets with music, sardine grills, and decorations. It’s a festive, lively period when the city truly shines under warm night skies.

For beachgoers, this is the high season: Carcavelos, Estoril, and Cascais beaches are packed, while ocean temperatures hover around 19°C. Always wear sunscreen — UV levels can be extremely high.

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Autumn brings golden light and fewer crowds. Temperatures remain ideal for sightseeing, averaging 22–26°C (71–79°F) in September and 18–22°C (64–72°F) in October. Rain becomes more frequent in November, but sunshine is still common between showers. Locals often describe autumn as Lisbon’s “second spring.”

This is also the perfect time for photographers: sunsets over the Tagus River become more dramatic, and miradouros (viewpoints) like Senhora do Monte and Santa Catarina offer spectacular evening light. It’s a comfortable time for walking tours and tram rides without the summer heat.

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Winter in Lisbon is mild compared to most European capitals. Average highs range from 14–17°C (57–63°F), while nights seldom drop below 8°C (46°F). Rain showers are more frequent but usually brief, and sunny intervals are common. It’s the ideal time for budget travelers — fewer tourists, lower hotel rates, and cozy indoor attractions like museums and Fado houses.

Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella, and enjoy quiet mornings exploring Belém or sipping coffee in Chiado. Snow is virtually unknown in Lisbon, though nearby Sintra’s hills can occasionally get misty and cool.

Monthly Averages (°C)

When to Visit Lisbon

For ideal conditions, plan your trip between April and June or September and October. These months combine pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation. Spring brings colorful jacaranda trees and local festivals, while autumn offers golden sunlight and warm evenings.

Summer (July–August) is best for beaches but expect higher hotel prices and busy attractions. Winter is ideal for cultural travel, photography, and food lovers seeking authentic Lisbon without tourist rush.

What to Pack for Lisbon’s Weather

• Spring: Light jacket, sunglasses, umbrella for occasional showers.
• Summer: Sunscreen, hat, breathable clothing, reusable water bottle.
• Autumn: Layers, light raincoat, comfortable shoes for walking hills.
• Winter: Warm sweater, waterproof jacket, closed shoes — no need for heavy coats.

Weather Tips for Travelers

• Lisbon’s seven hills can be tiring under strong sun — plan sightseeing in the morning or evening.
• Always carry sunscreen; UV levels are high even in spring.
• For day trips to Sintra, expect slightly cooler and mistier conditions.
• Evening sea breezes can be cool in summer; carry a light sweater.
• Check local forecasts on IPMA (Portuguese Meteorological Institute) for updates.

Climate Change & Environmental Awareness

Lisbon’s authorities actively promote sustainability and monitor climate adaptation strategies. Summers have become slightly hotter and drier in recent years, reflecting wider Mediterranean patterns. The city encourages eco-friendly travel — electric trams, cycling paths, and solar-powered ferries reduce emissions while keeping air quality excellent.

Travelers can support sustainable tourism by choosing reusable water bottles, using public transport, and staying in certified eco-accommodations.

Nearby Coastal Microclimates

The Lisbon region’s weather varies subtly by location:

• Cascais & Estoril: Slightly cooler due to Atlantic winds — great for surfing.
• Sintra: Cooler and more humid, with misty mornings ideal for photography.
• Setúbal & Arrábida: Warmer and sunnier, perfect for beach lovers.

These microclimates mean you can experience three different weather moods in a single day — city sun, coastal breeze, and forest mist — all within an hour’s drive.

Best Activities by Season

• Spring: Alfama walking tours, tram 28 rides, cherry blossom photography.
• Summer: Beach trips, rooftop bars, open-air concerts, and night festivals.
• Autumn: Wine tastings, food markets, sunset photography from Miradouro de Santa Luzia.
• Winter: Fado evenings, cultural museums, Christmas lights on Avenida da Liberdade.