Portugal in February : Weather Insights & Travel Tips
February is a great time to visit Portugal if you’re looking to escape the cold winter weather and enjoy some sunnier days. Though it’s still the off-season, Portugal has a mild Mediterranean climate that makes for pleasant weather even in the winter months. Read on to know about how Portugal weather in February will be, travel tips, top destinations and things to do in Portugal in February.
Portugal Weather in February: Insights & Travel Tips
- North Portugal
The north of Portugal tends to be rainier and cooler than other regions in February. Expect daytime highs around 12-15°C (53-59°F) and nighttime lows of 5-9°C (41-48°F). Pack warm layers, waterproof shoes and an umbrella. Popular destinations like Porto and Douro Valley may have frequent rain showers.
- South Portugal
Southern Portugal enjoys warmer and sunnier weather. Temperatures in the Algarve range from 12-17°C (53-63°F). While rain is possible, you’re likely to experience plenty of dry sunny days to explore beaches and sights along the coast.
- Coastal Portugal vs. Inland Portugal
Coastal areas have milder weather compared to inland regions. Along the coast, highs reach 15-18°C (59–64°F). Inland and at higher elevations, expect cooler temperatures around 10-13°C (50-55°F) during the day. Overnight lows drop to 3-6°C (37-43°F).
This is how you’ll find the weather in Portugal in February. So, apply online Portugal Visa and plan your vacation accordingly!
Portugal Tourist Destination – Quick Overview
Portugal sees fewer tourists in February compared to the summer months. The off-season means lower prices on flights and hotels. The rainy weather keeps crowds away, so popular sights and attractions are less busy. Expect warm sunny days mixed with occasional rain showers. Pack warm clothes and an umbrella, and you’ll be comfortable exploring Portugal’s cities, countryside and beaches.
Advantages of Visiting Portugal in February
- Lisbon – Portugal’s capital enjoys pleasant weather in February. Expect Highs of around 15°C (59°F) with a mix of sun & clouds and occasional rain showers.
- Porto – Cool and often rainy weather. Average highs of 13°C (55°F). Bring an umbrella and waterproof shoes for sightseeing.
- Lagos – A popular resort town in the Algarve. Enjoy mild Portugal Weather in February with highs of 16°C (61°F) and about 5 rainy days.
- Évora – An inland city with a well-preserved medieval center. It’s Cooler than the coast, with average highs of 13°C (55°F).
- Coimbra – A historic university city with an average February temperature of 12°C (54°F). Expect a mix of rain and sunshine here.
- Sintra – This city of palaces and castles sees mild weather, with average highs around 14°C (57°F). Occasional showers.
- Faro – A gateway city to the Algarve region. Temperatures around 14-16°C (57-61°F). Decent sunshine mixed with some rain.
- Braga – An ancient city rich in history and architecture. Temperatures are typically 12°C (54°F) with a few rainy days.
Packing Tips for Portugal Holiday in February
- Light jackets & sweaters
- Waterproof shoes
- Umbrella
- Layered clothing
- Swimwear if visiting the Algarve
- Rain jacket
Pack warm clothes that you can wear or remove comfortably as the weather changes. A light jacket, sweater, long sleeves and pants along with t-shirts should be enough. Bring a rain jacket and umbrella as occasional showers are likely.
Also see, 10 Best Things to Do in Albufeira, Portugal
Things to Avoid While Visiting Portugal in February
- Avoid going to the beach in the north where strong winds and cool rainy weather make it unpleasant
- Skip outdoor sights and activities on very rainy or stormy days
- Avoid hilly, high elevation areas in winter as roads may be closed due to ice or snow
- Don’t pack only summery clothes. Portugal Weather in February calls for warm layers and waterproof clothes like raincoats
If you want to visit Netherlands then you need to read the complete Netherlands visa requirements first.
Tourist Crowds While Visiting Portugal in February
February is low season in Portugal so popular tourist sites and cities will be less crowded than in summer. You may have top attractions all to yourself. Places like Sintra, Algarve Lisbon & Porto in February won’t be overrun with tourists. Expect smaller crowds at landmarks, museums, restaurants and beaches.
What to Do & Best Places to Visit in Portugal in February!
- Explore Lisbon
Mild weather and fewer tourists make February a good time to wander charming neighbourhoods like Alfama without the crowds.
- Relax on the Algarve in February
Enjoy sunshine and warmth in resort towns like Albufeira and Lagos with fewer peak-season tourists.
- Surf in Peniche & Nazaré
Catch some waves at these coastal towns that offer excellent surfing conditions.
- See Beautiful Porto
Portugal’s second largest city boasts pretty bridges, winding alleyways and riverside cafes. Wander the hilly streets of the Ribeira district, visit the imposing cathedral, and taste your way through the port wine cellars across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia. While rain showers are common, the atmospheric charm of Porto’s historic center shines any time of year.
Also see, Portugal Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
- Drink Vinho Verde Wine
Vinho Verde is a light, refreshing white wine that comes from Portugal’s northern Minho region. It’s the perfect drink for cooler rainy days. Visit the green rolling vineyards outside cities like Braga, Guimarães and Porto to tour wineries and taste different varieties of this popular wine.
- Visit Royal Palaces
Just outside Lisbon lies the fairy tale town of Sintra with several spectacular palaces. Explore the colorful Pena Palace perched atop a hill, the Moorish-style National Palace in the town center, and the whimsical Quinta da Regaleira with its intriguing gardens and initiation wells. So, why wait? Just meet the Portugal visa requirements, get your visa and jet off to Portugal!
- Go on Walking Tours
Joining walking tours is a great way to explore Portugal’s top destinations with a knowledgeable local guide. Go on food and wine tours, historic neighborhood tours, or scenic coastal walkways. Tours run year-round and allow you to see the sights while keeping active.
- Check Out Churches and Cathedrals of Portugal
Catholicism has shaped Portugal’s history, evident by the many beautifully designed cathedrals across the country. Admire the imposing Romanesque architecture of Braga’s Cathedral, the iconic white façade of Lisbon’s Jerónimos Monastery and Porto Cathedral with its splendid blue ceramic tiles.
- Explore Coimbra
Known for its prestigious university, Coimbra features striking historic architecture dating back centuries. Walk through the medieval old town, visit ancient churches and convents, and see historic university buildings. On rainy days, duck into cafes, museums, libraries and more to experience this multifaceted city.
- Catch Fresh Seafood Along the Coast
February is a great time to indulge in fresh, locally caught seafood as fishing season is in full swing. Coastal cities like Lisbon, Cascais, Nazaré and the Algarve serve up dishes with fish and shellfish straight from the sea. Try the iconic salted cod, grilled sardines, clams in garlic sauce and much more. Don’t wait anymore! Book your Portugal visa appointment today to relish these delicious delights!
- See Migratory Birds in Protected Wetlands
Over 200 species of birds like flamingos, herons and ducks stop in Portugal’s wetlands during their migration in February and March. Pack binoculars and visit nature reserves along the Tagus Estuary, the Sado Estuary and Castro Marim salt pans to spot beautiful aquatic birds in their natural habitats.
- Spot Dolphins or Whales off the Algarve Coast
The temperate waters off Portugal’s southern coast make for excellent whale and dolphin sightings. Hop on a dolphin watching tour boat and keep an eye out for these friendly, intelligent mammals. Other wildlife like sea turtles may also make an appearance on calm February days.
- Enjoy Local Carnival Festivities
In February, Portuguese towns liven up with colorful carnival parades, lively concerts, street food and parties before the period of Lent. Celebrate in style at major carnival festivals in Lisbon, Porto, Loulé and Madeira among other carnival-loving destinations.
- Take a Road Trip Through Wine Country
A self-drive holiday allows you to immerse yourself in Portugal’s renowned wine regions. Tour through areas like Dão Wine Region, Douro Valley and Alentejo to marvel at vineyards draped over rolling hills, visit wineries and enjoy leisurely tastings along the way.
- Relax in Open-Air Thermal Springs
Take advantage of Portugal’s many geothermal springs found across the country. Soak sore muscles in the warm mineral-rich waters at spa towns like Caldas da Rainha, Luso, Penacova while breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the peaceful natural setting around you.
Also see, 10 Schengen Countries Where You Can Easily Apply & Get Visa
Where to Stay in Portugal ?
- Coastal destinations like Lisbon, Cascais, Porto, the Algarve and Peniche offer the mildest weather and most sunshine in February.
- Southern Portugal tends to stay warmer and drier. Opt for the Algarve and Alentejo regions.
- Urban sightseeing works well in February too. Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra and Évora all have plenty to see and do.
- Avoid very remote, hilly or high elevation destinations where rain or snowfall can cause closures and slippery driving conditions.
- Staying in cities allows easy access to indoor attractions, restaurants and sights in case of bad weather.
Conclusion
February brings fewer crowds, lower prices and pleasant sunny escapes from winter. While cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers are likely in Portugal, packing the right layers and attitude ensures a great experience. With sunny coastal escapes, vibrant cities and charming towns to explore across Portugal, February makes for an ideal off-season European holiday. Get your Portugal Visa UK to enjoy a memorable vacation in Portugal!
FAQs
The Algarve enjoys mild weather in February, with average high temperatures around 16°C (61°F). You can expect a mix of sunny days along with some rain showers.
Overnight low temperatures in Lisbon typically drop to around 8-10°C (46-50°F) in February, so bring some warmer layers for going out at night.
Yes, February is still part of Portugal’s regular tourism season. You’ll find restaurants, main attractions, museums and tour operators running as normal.
Pack versatile layers like light jackets, sweaters, long sleeves and pants. Have waterproofs like an umbrella and rain jacket handy. Swimwear if you plan to visit coastal resort towns.
Beaches along Portugal’s southern coast can still be enjoyed in February when sunny. However, Atlantic-facing northern beaches are generally too cold and wet in winter.
