Spring in Portugal: Warm Days & Active Lives

Portugal is widely recognised for its mild climate throughout the year. Compared to much of Northern Europe, the country enjoys a clear advantage in terms of weather, with average annual temperatures of around 10°C in Porto and 12°C in Lisbon, alongside plenty of sunshine.

Spring follows the winter months and typically runs from March 20^th to June 21^st, marking one of the best times of year to experience Portugal. As temperatures rise and the days grow longer, the country comes to life with blooming flowers, birdsong and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.

In this article, we explore what spring looks like in Portugal and highlight some of the best ways to make the most of this vibrant and welcoming season.

Spring in Portugal begins on March 20^th and lasts until June 21^st, in line with the rest of the Northern Hemisphere. During this period, days become longer and temperatures gradually rise, bringing life back to outdoor spaces across the country. Cafés and esplanades fill up once again, reflecting the return of warmer, sunnier days.

Spring is one of the best times to visit Portugal. Beyond the pleasant weather and blue skies, visitors can enjoy quieter beaches in the Algarve and the Lisbon region, flowering trees and gardens, and a variety of seasonal festivals that celebrate the arrival of spring.

Spring is one of the most enjoyable times to be in Portugal. The season brings mild, comfortable temperatures and creates ideal conditions for exploring the country’s gardens, parks and outdoor spaces, all brought to life by blooming flowers, green countryside and sunny coastal days.

During spring, average temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C in March, rising to around 20°C to 25°C by June, depending on the region. Southern areas such as the Algarve tend to experience warmer conditions, while northern regions are generally cooler, offering a pleasant contrast across the country.

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Spring in Portugal brings a balanced mix of sunshine and occasional rainfall. Northern regions generally experience more rainy days, while the Lisbon area and the Algarve tend to enjoy milder, drier conditions, with an average of six to seven rainy days per month. If you plan to travel between regions, it’s wise to pack both sunscreen and a light umbrella to be prepared for changing weather.

Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterised by mild winters and warm, dry summers. During spring, the city benefits from longer days, frequent sunshine and comfortable temperatures, creating ideal conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Average spring temperatures in Lisbon typically range between 20°C and 25°C, making it especially appealing for those who enjoy sunny weather without the intensity of peak summer heat. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean helps maintain a pleasant atmosphere throughout spring and autumn, contributing to its high quality of life.

While Lisbon is a year-round destination, spring marks the return of lively outdoor spaces and cultural attractions, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the city at its best before the summer crowds arrive.

Porto, Portugal’s charming second-largest city, is known for its mild winters and warm summers, with spring serving as an ideal transition between the two seasons. During this time, the city enjoys increasing amounts of sunshine alongside comfortable temperatures, making it a pleasant period to visit or live in the north of Portugal.

Rainfall is more frequent in Porto than in southern regions, though spring typically brings brighter days and refreshing Atlantic sea breezes. Temperatures generally range between 15°C and 25°C throughout the year, with spring offering a balanced mix of mild warmth and fresh coastal air. Combined with its rich history, striking architecture and picturesque neighbourhoods, Porto remains an appealing destination all year round.

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging between 15°C and 28°C. Known for its extensive coastline and abundant sunshine, the region is particularly appealing to beach lovers and those seeking outdoor living.

During the spring months, the Algarve benefits from warm, comfortable weather that is ideal for exploring the coast, relaxing on the beach and enjoying outdoor activities without the intensity of peak summer heat. Light and comfortable clothing is generally sufficient, making spring an excellent time to visit. Overall, the Algarve’s favourable climate and scenic beaches make it a standout destination during the spring season.

Read more:
Portugal’s Weather: A Year-Round Climate Guide

Spring is an excellent time to explore Portugal’s natural beauty, culture and history. With milder temperatures and longer days, wandering through gardens, parks and historic monuments becomes one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the country.

From relaxing with a coffee at an outdoor esplanada to strolling through parks filled with blooming flowers, spring offers endless opportunities for outdoor leisure. The country’s pleasant climate makes it ideal for walking, sightseeing and discovering Portugal’s diverse landscapes.

Visitors should take the opportunity to explore Portugal’s many green spaces during this season. In Lisbon, highlights include the Lisbon Botanical Garden and the city’s tree-lined avenues as they come into bloom. Nearby, Sintra’s Quinta da Regaleira stands out as a must-visit destination, particularly in spring. One of Lisbon’s most distinctive seasonal features is the blooming jacaranda trees, which add vibrant colour to the city’s streets and parks.

Introduced from Brazil during the colonial period, jacaranda trees are known for their distinctive purple blossoms and delicate fragrance. Each spring, typically from late April to early May, their blue and violet tones transform Lisbon’s streets, creating a romantic and visually striking atmosphere.

Some of the best places in Lisbon to admire the jacarandas include the neighbourhoods of Alcântara, Lapa and Campo de Ourique, as well as Jardim da Estrela and Parque Eduardo VII. Beyond their beauty, these trees also contribute to the city’s biodiversity, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Seeing Lisbon in bloom during jacaranda season offers visitors a truly memorable experience, where nature blends seamlessly with historic architecture and the city’s vibrant culture.

Yes, spring is an excellent time to visit Portugal. The season offers a pleasant combination of mild weather, beautiful landscapes and a wide range of activities to enjoy. Portugal’s rich history, vibrant culture and renowned cuisine add to its appeal, making spring an especially rewarding time to explore the country.

With comfortable temperatures and longer days, spring is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and sightseeing. It is also a season filled with colour and celebration, creating memorable experiences for visitors across the country.

Spring festivals are a particular highlight. From the Cherry Festival in Fundão to Festa da Primavera in Aguiar, and Santos Populares in Lisbon, which marks the transition from spring to summer, there are numerous events that showcase local traditions and bring communities together.

If you’d like to explore Portugal throughout the year, Portugal Homes offers detailed guides to spring, summer, autumn and winter in Portugal.

Click on the relevant section below to discover seasonal activities, weather insights and travel tips to help you plan your visit or relocation with confidence.