Why does Portugal attract so many tourists, and when is the best time to visit

A small country on the map of Europe, Portugal recorded a record number of travelers last year. In May 2023 alone, its visitors exceeded 1.8 million. Despite its small size, this country has a variety of tourist destinations.

If you want to experience urban culture, enjoy the wonders of nature and beaches, and delve into the gastronomic offerings, you should consider the best time to visit, as Travel and Leisure writes.

Experts in the Portuguese tourism industry shared their thoughts on the best time to visit Portugal. In their opinion, the best time to visit is spring: from April to June. Alternatively, you can also consider September or October, when the weather is still fine.

Tourists can expect four seasons, but it is never too cold. However, prices for hotels and excursions may vary depending on the time of year.

The period from June to August is considered the high season. At the same time, the least popular time is from December to April.

When is it better to travel to Portugal with a small group

Avoid the crowds and enjoy the tourist experience when visiting Portugal from December to April. During this time, you will find fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the half-empty streets in peace. Although the weather may be cool along the coast, it is the perfect time to explore the cultural riches of Lisbon and Porto.

From Lisbon's Trade Square and Belém Tower to Porto's unique Wine World, each city is filled with historical gems. In winter, you can fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere and enjoy exclusive cultural and wine experiences, feeling the warmth of Portugal's hospitality even on cold days.

When is the best time to travel to Portugal in good weather

For those looking for warmth and long days, the summer months in Portugal are the perfect time to visit. From mid-June to mid-September, the country experiences a warm season that brings average daily highs of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. The hottest month is August, with temperatures around 83 degrees.

However, it is worth noting that the wind can be strong in summer, and many people prefer to use protective screens on beaches to avoid sand in the air while relaxing in the sun.

When prices are low in Portugal

For those looking to save money on a trip to Portugal, the off-season and low season are ideal times. From December to April, tourists will find more reasonable prices. In tourist areas such as Lisbon, Faro, and Porto, the crowds are significantly smaller, and the weather is still beautiful. The off-season is the perfect time to look for discounts on hotels and excursions. In addition, during this time of year, you have a better chance of booking a seat in popular restaurants.

If you prefer cooler temperatures and love to enjoy the beauty of spring blooms or fall landscapes, you should consider a visit to Portugal in the off-season. This is the period when the days can be warm or even hot, and nature blooms with bright colors.

The best time to visit Portugal for festivals

In the summer, Lisbon comes to life with Festas de Santo Antonio, dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Santo Antonio. From June 11 to 13, the streets are filled with fun and the aroma of fried sardines, and fabulous parades attract attention. During these days, the whole city turns into a place of celebration, where parties last all night and the streets are filled with people.

In winter, the country is immersed in a Christmas atmosphere. Twinkling lights and Christmas decorations adorn Lisbon and Porto, and Christmas markets invite you to cozy walks along the streets. Travelers can enjoy this magical atmosphere and see how Portugal celebrates the holiday season.

The worst times to visit Portugal

Portugal attracts with its charm at any time of the year, offering a variety of benefits in each season. Although each period has its own characteristics, October and November are considered the rainy season, which may not be suitable for those who prefer sunny days. At this time of year, the days are shorter, and the temperature can drop significantly.

However, there are always plenty of things to do and places to see in Portugal, even during the rainy season. Therefore, while there is no bad time to visit this country, everyone can choose a season that suits their preferences and interests.