The best time to visit Lisbon

What is the best time to travel to Lisbon? If you are planning your next getaway and want to know the best time of the year to visit the capital of Portugal, you can't miss this article.

 

Lisbon is one of the favorite vacation destinations within the European continent, thanks to its history, culture, gastronomy and wonderful climate.

 

Although the Portuguese capital can be visited at almost any time of the year, the truth is that there are certain times that are more advisable than others to organize your vacation. Discover here the main pros and cons of going to Lisbon according to the season of the year.

The view of the Praça do Comércio with people strolling.

 

What is the best time to travel to Lisbon? The best of each season

 

Lisbon in winter

 

Although winter is not the best time to travel to Lisbon, the truth is that there is a certain profile of tourists who prefer to visit the city in low season, thus avoiding the crowds and high prices.

During this time of the year, temperatures are cool without being too cold, with frequent rains depending on the specific month. This, far from being negative, can be very pleasant, since it eliminates the problem of the stifling heat and the large flow of tourists flooding the streets.

Exploring Lisbon during the winter months is fantastic, because the main monuments and tourist attractions will be much less crowded. We are talking, above all, about St. George's Castle or the Belém Tower, where long queues can form.

In addition, during Christmas, Lisbon is filled with lights and decorations. Locals set up Christmas markets throughout the city, perfect for buying gifts, taking beautiful pictures and tasting sweets such as Belém cakes and typical Christmas drinks.

In addition, winter is a perfect time to savor some of the most delicious and comforting dishes of Portuguese gastronomy, such as cocido, caldo verde, or bacalhau.

Lisbon in spring

 

If winter is an ideal time to visit Lisbon in a quiet way, spring is undoubtedly one of the seasons in which the capital is more vibrant and full of life.

It would not be crazy to say that spring is the perfect time to travel to Lisbon, as the weather is mild and pleasant during the day and at night, and the activities and leisure alternatives in the city multiply.

On the one hand, we have the pleasure of exploring the city with an optimal temperature, while visiting some of its most emblematic places: the Praça do Comerço, the Alfama district, the Bairro Alto, etc. Not to mention the beauty of its parks and gardens as trees and plants bloom.

On the other hand, we have the activities, events and festivities that take place in the capital during the spring, such as the Lisbon Carnival, the International Film Festival and the Fado Festival. 100% recommendable to get to know the Lisbon culture and lifestyle first hand.

Finally, this time of the year is perfect to enjoy the lighter Portuguese gastronomy, with popular dishes such as salads and fresh grilled fish as a must. Delicious!

 

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Lisbon in summer

 

Like spring, summer is an ideal season to travel to Lisbon, as the capital is full of life, color, and a festive atmosphere.

However, it should also be noted that temperatures during this time of the year can be very hot and dry, which is especially uncomfortable if you intend to explore the city on foot. And don't forget that during the high season, the prices of services and of the trip itself also rise substantially.

Leaving the negative points behind, Lisbon in summer is a very attractive city thanks to its coastal location and beaches. During this season, you can enjoy a good swim and other activities such as surfing and other water sports at the Carcavelos Beach or Cascais Beach.

The nightlife is also growing, so fun is more than guaranteed in the numerous bars, clubs, discos and live music venues. If you like this plan, you can't miss a stroll through the Bairro Alto, the favorite partying area of the Lisbonites.

Finally, during the summer there are some very interesting festivals and cultural events in Lisbon, such as the Jazz Festival and the Lisbon Summer Festival, which attract artists and visitors from all over the world every year and are not to be missed!

Lisbon in autumn

 

If crowds are not your thing and you want to know when to travel to Lisbon to be more relaxed and not spend too much money, autumn is the ideal season.

During this time of the year, temperatures are pleasant and range between 15°C and 25°C. Be sure to bring an umbrella, however, as rainfall can be quite frequent.

Speaking of exploring, in autumn you won't have to waste too much time queuing to visit the city's main points of interest, such as the Jerónimos Monastery or the Belém Palace, among many other examples.

Similarly, the city's parks and gardens, such as the Eduardo VII Park, the Botanical Garden, or the Gulbenkian Garden will continue to be in bloom. Walking through them calmly and appreciating all the aromas of the plants is a pleasure for the senses, so don't miss this opportunity.

As for gastronomy, autumn is a perfect time to sit down in one of Lisbon's many restaurants and savor some of the best soups and stews of its gastronomy. Not to mention Portuguese wines, famous all over the world.

We hope you found this interesting, but above all, useful to discover what is the best time to travel to Lisbon.

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