Lisbon has an advantage few European capitals can offer: more than 2,800 hours of sunshine a year and a mild climate even in winter. This means that, unlike destinations such as London or Berlin, there isn't really a "bad time" to visit — but there are better times depending on what you're looking for in your trip. Here's what to expect in each season.
Spring (March to May) — the local's favourite
Temperatures between 15°C and 22°C, long days, gardens in bloom and still without the intense heat of summer. It's also when accommodation prices start to rise, but they're still far from the July and August peaks. If we had to pick just one season to recommend, this would be it — especially May, with warm days but still-cool nights.
Summer (June to August) — heat, festivals and crowds
June is the month of the Santos Populares, the city's biggest celebration: Saint Anthony (on the 13th), with street parties in every neighbourhood, grilled sardines and Alfama's streets decorated with colourful bunting — an unmissable experience if it happens to coincide with your visit. July and August bring the highest temperatures of the year (easily above 30°C) and the biggest tourist crowds — book accommodation and tours in advance. It's also when the Tagus river and the nearby beaches (Cascais, Costa da Caparica) most reward a half-day escape.
Autumn (September to November) — the best-kept secret
September keeps the summer warmth but with fewer crowds and prices already dropping. October and November bring more rainy days, but stay mild (15-20°C) and with a particularly beautiful golden light for photography — late afternoons in Alfama and at the viewpoints get especially cinematic at this time of year.
Winter (December to February) — mild and crowd-free
Lisbon's winter rarely drops below 8°C, and days of full sunshine in the middle of January are not uncommon — it's normal to see terrace cafés full even in February. It rains more than in the other seasons, but the showers tend to be short. It's the season with the lowest prices and the shortest queues at the monuments — great for anyone who prefers Lisbon without the crowds and doesn't mind bringing a jacket.
And the tuk-tuk — does it run in any season?
Yes — our tuk-tuks are 100% electric and covered, which makes them comfortable both on a hot July day (without the heat of a combustion engine or the direct sun) and on a cooler winter day. The only time we recommend checking the weather before booking is during heavy autumn/winter showers — in that case, we always get in touch to reschedule at no cost.
Lisbon à la Carte — from €120, 1h to 5h
Choose the duration and itinerary that best fits your trip, whatever the season.
Whatever the season of your visit, we have a tour to match — from the 2-hour Belém tour to the 5-hour Full Lisbon for those who want to see it all. Booking ahead is especially recommended between June and August.