The Spring in Portugal: Warm days & Active life

Portugal is well known worldwide for its mild climate during all seasons. Compared to Northern Europe weather, the country shows a great advantage, presenting an annual average temperature near 10ºC in Porto and 12ºC in Lisbon. The Spring season comes after the Winter and this year starts on March 20th and goes until June 21st, one of the best times of the year to enjoy Portugal. The period represents the love season, bringing back the blooming of the flowers, the singing of birds and the long and hot days. Through this article, we will discover what spring looks like in Portugal, and the best activities to enjoy this lovely season fully.

Look at Lisbon's landscape from below a blossoming tree in spring time.

Spring in Portugal - when does it start?

The Spring season in Portugal starts on March 20th and lasts until June 21st, following the rest of the northern hemisphere. During this time, the days spread longer with the temperatures beginning to warm up - it is during this period that we can see the esplanades being occupied again throughout the Portuguese territory. Spring is a great time to visit Portugal; if the hot weather and the blue skies are not enough to convince you, then try the amazing beaches in the Algarve and Lisbon Region, as well as the blooming flowers and trees, and the several Spring Festivals.

Tram passing by jacaranda tree in Lisbon.

What’s the weather like in spring in Portugal?

Being in Portugal during the spring season could be the best choice one can make. The season brings a comfortable and pleasant climate, the perfect opportunity to discover the city's gardens and parks and its vivid colours from the blooming flowers, the countryside and the beaches. As said before, the country stands with an average temperature of 15°C - 20°C (59°F - 68°F) in March, and gets up to 20°C - 25°C (68°F - 77°F) in June, depending on the region. For example, the Algarve can reach higher temperatures, while the North of the country tends to chill.

Is it sunny or rainy during spring?

Spring in Portugal will bring a mix of sunny and rainy days, while the northern part of the country generally receives more rain, the Lisbon region and the Algarve delivers mild and dry weather with only 6-7 rainy days per month on average. If you pretend to be travelling between the regions, the suggestion equip yourself with sunscreen and an umbrella for whatever the weather brings.

Weather in Lisbon

The gorgeous capital of Portugal, Lisbon, is blessed with a wonderful Mediterranean climate that offers mild winters and warm, dry summers from June to September. During the Spring, the city boasts long, sunny days, clear blue skies, and high temperatures averaging between 20°C to 25°C, making it a haven for sun worshippers and beach enthusiasts. Lisbon's Spring season is awesomely enjoyable and offers its visitors and residents a great quality of life. The city's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean adds to its charm a good atmosphere during spring and autumn. Lisbon is an ideal destination year-round, but during summer time the city offers the best popular attractions, as a reward after the winter.

Weather in Porto

Porto, the charming second-largest city in Portugal, is characterized by mild winters and warm summers - the Spring period being the perfect transition with sunny skies and hot weather. The city experiences frequent rainfall throughout the year, and the range of temperature annually goes from 15°C to 25°C. Visitors and residents of Porto during the Spring months can look forward to the refreshing sea breezes, comfortable sights and sounds. With a rich history and culture, picturesque neighbourhoods, and stunning architecture, Porto appears as a charming destination worthwhile year-round.

Weather in the Algarve

The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is blessed with a wonderful Mediterranean climate with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 28°C throughout the year. Its stunning coastline features gorgeous beaches and year-round sunshine, an ideal location for beach enthusiasts and sun worshippers. Visitors to the Algarve during the Spring months should pack comfortable clothing and spect the amazing weather to enjoy the beaches. Overall, the Algarve's fantastic climate and breathtaking beaches make it a perfect destination during the Spring period.

Algarve's beaches already look sunny in the springtime.

Spring Activities - Best things to do during the spring in Portugal

Spring is an excellent time to visit Portugal and explore the country's natural beauty, culture and history - as the weather cools down, strolling through the gardens, parks and monuments becomes one of the best things to do. Whether it's a coffee on the esplanadas, or a walk in the shade of flowery parks, there's always something to do during this season. Portugal's mild spring weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's landscapes. Visitors to Portugal during spring should not miss the opportunity to stroll through the country's beautiful parks.

In the Portuguese capital, for example, we have several attractive options, such as the Lisbon Botanical Garden and the city's boulevards, which are beginning to bloom. In Sintra, Quinta da Regaleira is emerging as one of the main tourist destinations. One of the biggest attractions of spring in Lisbon is the jacaranda trees.

Portuguese cities look marvelous during the blossoming season.

These beautiful trees brought from Brazil during the colonial period produce a purple flower, with a fragrant smell, which transforms the city streets into veritable catwalks. Purple and blue tones appear in late April and early May, creating a romantic atmosphere. The best places in Lisbon to see these trees are in the streets of Alcântara, Lapa and Campo de Ourique, as well as in Jardim da Estrela and Parque Eduardo VII. Jacaranda trees also play a crucial role in maintaining the city's biodiversity, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors during spring, an incredible parallel of nature mixed with local architecture and vibrant culture.

Is it worth visiting Portugal in spring?

Portugal is worth visiting in the spring as the country offers its residents a delightful mix of mild weather, stunning scenery and fun activities. Portugal's rich history, vibrant culture and delicious cuisine all add to its unique charm. With pleasant temperatures, spring is the ideal time to practice outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and sightseeing.

It is an outstanding season and will certainly create unforgettable memories for visitors, especially those who decide to visit the countless festivals that appear throughout the country. From the Cherry Festival, in Fundão, to the Festa da Primavera in Aguiar and Santos Populares, in Lisbon, marking the end of Spring and the beginning of Summer; there are several events that deserve the attention of visitors to Portugal.