Portugal enjoys one of Europe’s sunniest climates, with distinct north-south and coastal-inland variations. Lisbon averages 11°C in January and 24°C in July, with rain concentrated from November to March. The Algarve sees 300 days of sun annually, summer highs of 28-30°C, and winter temperatures rarely below 8°C, making it Europe’s warmest mainland winter destination. Porto and the Douro Valley are cooler and wetter, with Atlantic influence bringing rain through winter and pleasant 20-25°C summers. Madeira offers eternal spring at 17-24°C year-round, while the Azores are mild (13-22°C) but wet with frequent rain. The best months for city visits to Lisbon and Porto are April, May, September, and October. Beach season on the Algarve runs May through October, with July and August being the busiest and hottest.
