Lisbon
Portugal · Europe
Lisbon – What you should know
Lisbon is considered one of the sunniest capitals in Europe and even surpasses Barcelona and Madrid in sunshine hours. The climate is mildly Mediterranean with Atlantic influence: summers are warm and dry (typically 25–28°C), but not oppressively hot thanks to Atlantic breezes. Winters are mild and the main source of rainfall — with 11–15°C and occasional rain.
Spring (March to May) is Lisbon's most beautiful season: the city blossoms, temperatures are pleasant for extended walks through the hilly districts of Alfama and Mouraria, and the beaches of the Costa de Caparica are not yet crowded. In April, Lisbon's lively spring festival takes place.
The Atlantic off Lisbon is cooler than the Mediterranean even in summer: coastal water temperatures typically reach 17–18°C — pleasant for seasoned swimmers, but noticeably cooler than South European beach holiday visitors expect. Surfers appreciate the constant Atlantic swells off Cascais and Ericeira year-round.
Climate Overview
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
MAXMax Temp | 15° | 16° | 18° | 20° | 24° | 26° | 29° | 29° | 27° | 24° | 18° | 16° |
MINMin Temp | 9° | 9° | 11° | 13° | 15° | 17° | 19° | 19° | 18° | 16° | 12° | 10° |
☀️Sunshine | 5h | 6h | 8h | 9h | 10h | 10h | 11h | 10h | 9h | 7h | 5h | 5h |
🌊Water Temp | 15° | 15° | 15° | 16° | 17° | 18° | 18° | 18° | 18° | 18° | 17° | 15° |
🌧Rain Days | 6d68mm | 6d61mm | 6d65mm | 6d56mm | 3d30mm | 1d12mm | 0d1mm | 0d3mm | 2d24mm | 6d86mm | 8d102mm | 6d81mm |
Best travel time
The best time to visit Lisbon is June, July, August, and September. In summer, temperatures rise to 29°C; in winter they can drop to 8°C. During the best travel months, the sun shines up to 10 hours per day — ideal for beach and outdoor activities.
Travel Tips
May offers great weather in Lisbon with fewer tourists and lower prices — ideal for those who want to avoid the peak season crowds.
Events & Festivals
June
- Festas de Lisboa – Noite de Santo António12.–13. Juni
Das größte Volksfest der Stadt. Alfama und Mouraria füllen sich mit Musik, Sardinen vom Grill und Tanzenden die ganze Nacht.
- Rock in Rio Lisboavariabel (gerade Jahre, Juni)
Eines der größten Musikfestivals Europas findet in geraden Jahren in Lissabon statt (2024, 2026 …).
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Lisbon?
- The best time to visit Lisbon is June, July, August, and September. These months offer the most favourable combination of sunshine, temperatures, and low rainfall.
- How warm does it get in Lisbon?
- In summer, temperatures in Lisbon can reach up to 29°C. In winter, they may drop to 8°C.
- How much rain does Lisbon get?
- Lisbon has a relatively even rainfall pattern with an average of 4 rain days per month. The driest months are June, July, August, and September.
- How warm is the water in Lisbon?
- Water temperature in Lisbon ranges from 14°C (February) to 18°C (September). During the best travel months (June, July, August, and September), the water is most pleasant for swimming.
Best Travel Time by Vacation Type
🏖️
Beach Holiday
Warm, sunny, little rain
JulAugSep
🏙️
City Trip
Pleasantly mild, not too hot
JunJulSep
