Travel advice for Portugal
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I'm not sure where to send this so I'll start here. My parents just reached out to me to ask whether I'd told you how exceptional our experience was in our...
Inspired?February is certainly not the most popular month to take a trip to Portugal. That said, this can be a great time to take a trip and avoid the masses of tourists. It's also a festive time with plenty of festivals and events, including colorful Carnival parades. Here's our guide to the weather in Portugal in February.
The weather in January can be a bit cold for Portugal, but not bone-chilling.
Rain pops up here and there across the country, so you’ll definitely want to keep that umbrella handy. On average, Portugal sees about 3.15 to 4.72 inches (80-120mm) of rain in February, but it varies depending on where you are. While it's not as rainy as earlier in the winter, expect a few wet days during your visit.
When it comes to outdoor plans, February might throw a wrench in things. While indoor attractions are still great to visit, outdoor activities (especially hiking or going to the beach) might be limited due to the weather.
February marks the low season for tourism in Portugal. With the holiday crowds long gone, you'll find quieter streets and less crowded attractions. Plus, you'll likely snag some good deals on lodging and travel, which is great news for budget-conscious travelers.
Overall, February can be a solid time to visit Portugal if you're looking for a peaceful escape without the crowds. Just be sure to pack for cooler weather and be ready for the occasional shower, especially if you've got outdoor activities on your agenda.
Tips from Joel
Portugal Travel Expert
Absolutely, if you’re coming to Portugal this February, I totally recommend taking some time to explore Lisbon. Just something you should be aware of is that the cobblestone streets can get quite slippery when it rains.
Definitely don’t let that discourage you from visiting, because this is really a good time to skip the crowds. Just make sure you have the right footwear, preferably flat shoes with good traction.
In February, Portugal experiences cool and sometimes rainy weather, particularly in the northern regions, while the southern areas tend to be warmer. Daytime temperatures typically range from 54°F to 64°F (12°C to 18°C) across the country, with cooler temperatures in the evenings, dropping to around 43°F to 50°F (6°C to 10°C).
In Porto and northern Portugal, February remains cool with average minimum temperatures range from 41°F to 48°F (5°C to 9°C) and maximum temperatures average between 52°F to 59°F (11°C to 15°C). While rainfall persists, there may be fewer rainy days compared to January, and the early morning fog characteristic of this region may start to diminish as spring approaches.
Moving down to Lisbon and central Portugal, February continues to offer mild temperatures. Average minimum temperatures are around 46°F to 54°F (8°C to 12°C), while highs range from 59°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C). Rainfall remains possible, but the frequency of showers tends to decrease compared to January.
In the southern region of Portugal, including the Algarve, February brings pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. Average lows range from 48°F to 54°F (9°C to 12°C), while highs reach around 61°F to 66°F (16°C to 19°C). Rainfall continues to be low, and sunny days become more frequent.
The island of Madeira maintains its mild and subtropical climate throughout February. Average lows range from 55°F to 59°F (13°C to 15°C), while highs average between 64°F to 68°F (18°C to 20°C). Rainfall remains possible but tends to be less frequent compared to mainland Portugal.
February in Portugal is still winter, but things start to warm up a bit compared to the chillier months of December and January. The weather is still mild enough that you can comfortably explore cities, and historic sites, and even hit the coast without dealing with the summer crowds.
But here's the thing about February – the weather can be a bit unpredictable. So, it's a good idea to have a backup plan for indoor attractions like museums, art galleries, and historical sites.
If you're around towards the end of February, you're in for a treat with Carnival celebrations in cities like Lisbon, Porto, and Loulé. Get ready for vibrant parades, flashy costumes, and street parties that'll keep you dancing all night long (more on this below).
For those who love wine, February is a prime time to explore Portugal's wine regions, like the Douro Valley, where you can sip on some fine vino and take leisurely vineyard tours.
Just a heads up: February days are a bit shorter, so plan your activities accordingly.
Compared to the bustling summer and early autumn seasons, February brings a welcome break in tourist traffic to Portugal. This means you can explore popular attractions without the usual throngs of visitors, making for a generally more relaxing trip.
Plus, with fewer tourists around, accommodation and transportation costs tend to be lower, making it a budget-friendly time to explore Portugal's charms.
That said – February isn't entirely without events that draw crowds. Carnival, in particular, can bring a surge of visitors to certain areas. So, while you may encounter increased crowds during these festivities, overall, February promises a quieter experience compared to the peak seasons.
If you are hoping to catch the festivities, you’ll want to be sure to book far in advance to get the best rate.
If you’re seeking similar crowds, but with a slightly better climate, you might want to consider visiting during the slightly later shoulder season starting in March.
Ready to explore Portugal? Start preparing by finding out how to get there.
As you prepare for your journey to Portugal in February, check to see if any of the wonderful festivals are taking place in town during that month. Just be sure to make your reservations well in advance. If you need more ideas for your trip, explore our specially selected list of the best things to do in Portugal.
Lisbon Carnival is a dazzling schedule of parades, music, and dancing that fills the streets of the capital city with color and excitement. Participants don elaborate costumes and masks, joining processions that wind through the city center, accompanied by samba rhythms and cheerful revelry. It's a celebration of joy and creativity that brings communities together in the spirit of carnival.
Festa do Fumeiro in Vinhais is a culinary celebration of traditional smoked meats, showcasing the rich flavors and culinary heritage of the region. Visitors can sample a variety of smoked sausages, hams, and other cured meats, prepared using age-old techniques passed down through generations. Cooking demonstrations, tastings, and cultural performances add to the festive atmosphere.
Looking for even more options for your winter getaway? Explore our guide to the best places for a February vacation.
Essência do Vinho wine festival is a paradise for wine lovers, offering the opportunity to taste and discover Portugal's finest wines from various regions. Held in Porto, this prestigious event gathers renowned winemakers, sommeliers, and wine enthusiasts for tastings, masterclasses, and wine-pairing experiences. It's a chance to explore the diversity and quality of Portuguese wines while enjoying surrounding views of the Douro River.
Fantasporto International Film Festival in Porto is a cinematic celebration that showcases the best of fantasy, horror, and science fiction cinema from around the world. Filmmakers and film lovers gather to screen and discuss innovative and daring films that push the boundaries of the imagination. With screenings, Q&A sessions, and awards ceremonies, it's a thrilling experience for fans of alternative cinema.
Feira de Março, held in Aveiro, is one of Portugal's oldest and most traditional fairs, dating back centuries. This lively event features amusement rides, games, food stalls, and live entertainment, attracting visitors of all ages. From Ferris wheels to cotton candy, it's a nostalgic celebration of springtime fun and community spirit that delights locals and tourists alike.
Why not skip the hours of research and planning and instead allow us to handle the details? Our tailor-made trips are created by local travel experts and are completely customizable. Plus, while on your trip, you’ll have 24/7 support. Here are some of our Portugal trips:
Or browse our other Portugal itineraries.
Not sure when to go to Portugal? See our guide to other months:
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Portugal
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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 12.08.2024
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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