The weather in Lisbon is determined by its broader geographical location and immediate local surroundings. Its predominant Mediterranean climate, based on its geographical location, is moderated by the ocean's proximity. At the same time, the mouth of the Tagus River and the surrounding hills make the city's climate unique.
From March to November, a short-sleeved polo shirt is the norm
In terms of temperatures, the weather in Lisbon also makes the city a very pleasant place. From March to November, the average daily temperature – not the daily maximum – is above 15°C (~60°F). On the hottest days, the temperature dares to exceed 30°C (~85°F), in winter it rarely drops below 10°C (~50°F). It is a warm city with a pleasant climate, where you can walk around in a T-shirt for most of the year, with a maximum of sweaters.
Due to the proximity of the ocean, the humidity is high and precipitation is measured 112 days a year, although a third of this is not real rain, but rather just precipitation. In July and August, it practically does not rain at all. You can expect rainy periods from mid-November to mid-February, and April is wetter than average. The annual precipitation is 750-800 mm (~30 inches).
Fog is a frequent guest of the weather in Lisbon, which especially haunts the river that winds through the city. A few times a year, the fog separates the two banks of the river like a wall: while the weather can be clear on both sides, you cannot see through to the other side.
March, May, June, September, and October are therefore the most suitable months for a general visit to the city. In July and August, the weather is dry and hot, which is more difficult for people to bear in the city.
December, January, and February are riskier. Sometimes the weather is particularly pleasant, almost summery, and then Lisbon is wonderful: the sun is shining, you can sit out on the terraces and there are hardly any tourists. Other times, the weather is cool, windy, and rainy for a long time, and people don't feel like being outdoors.
April is the black sheep of the team: the temperature is pleasant, but it rains relatively often, so it's good to have a plan B and an umbrella.
Beach season
The beach season and the bathing season are sharply separated in Portugal. There is always life on the beaches, surfers take possession of the shores in winter and summer. On warmer February days, young people in swimsuits play beach volleyball and there are always some brave ones who venture into the water. However, it is important to point out that even in summer it is not always allowed or possible to swim in the sea due to the big waves, it is rather good for splashing around.
It's cool for splashing though. The sea is warmest at the end of August and beginning of September, at which time approx. 20-22°C (~70°F). It is not a great consolation that it is not cooler than 15°C (~60°F) even in winter. Locals use the spas for classic bathing from May to September.
The unique climate of Sintra
One of Lisbon's must-sees is Sintra. Sintra is located in the mountains that separate the Portuguese capital from the ocean. It can rain in Sintra at any time. Anytime. If the weather is completely clear in Lisbon, there may still be clouds over Sintra. You don't have to be afraid of that, the gloomy weather perfectly suits the atmosphere of the city, which is especially refreshing in the summer months. Compared to the weather in Lisbon, Sintra is always a few degrees cooler.
Add comment
Comments