When does the beach season start in Portugal? Climate in Portugal by months. Air and water temperature in different regions of the country. Active holidays in Portugal
Portugal is in the subtropical climate zone. It is characterized by significant seasonal temperature fluctuations: tropical summers and non-tropical winters. From other European countries, the climate in Portugal is diverse and depends not only on the region, terrain, but also on proximity to the ocean. The ocean is the foundation of everything. It exudes coolness in hot weather. summer days, and it also softens winters, especially in the south of the country, in the Algarve (port. Algarve).
Monthly weather in Portugal
Ocean water temperature
From February to May, about +18 degrees, then the temperature begins to rise. In summer, the ocean temperature is around +24º heat. Swimming is quite comfortable until January (+20º).
There are few sandy beaches on the islands, but there are many natural ocean pools.
The best time to visit the Azores
From July to November.
Madeira weather and climate
Madeira is a green subtropical paradise, perfect place attracts tourists throughout the year. It has a very mild climate without strong seasonal temperature fluctuations. Without sweltering heat in summer, with warm winters and the ocean, thanks to the Gulf Stream.
Residents good-naturedly call Madeira an island eternal spring, and for good reason. On the island, which is like a floating paradise garden, you can all year round admire flowers such as orchids, magnolias, anthurium and strelitzia, and a huge number of others of incredible beauty exotic plants with a pleasant aroma. Areas of untouched nature that can only be reached on foot, the peaks of volcanoes framed by lush green vegetation, and the white sandy beaches of Porto Santo. Visit this paradise in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ocean water temperature
There are almost no beaches in Madeira, the coastline is very rocky and there are many sheer cliffs. All thanks to the volcanic origin of the archipelago. So if you want beach holiday, it is better to choose another place.
Best time to visit Madeira
All year round. It is not for nothing that it is called the island of eternal spring.
One of ancient states Europe, famous for its rich historical heritage, Portugal is a quiet sunny country on the southwestern "outskirts" of the Iberian Peninsula, on the one hand stretching along the border with Spain, on the other - along the Atlantic coast. Find out on the Tour-Calendar why the most favorable time for a holiday in the "European province" is from late May to mid-September.
Portugal - ""the provincial outskirts of Europe"", favorite place a measured, respectable rest of tourists who are fed up with the standard beauties
Tourist season in Portugal
Portugal is perhaps the most attractive European country for environmentally friendly recreation. Magnificent climate, picturesque landscapes, impeccable beaches, marked with the Blue Flag for top quality waters and well-being of coastal zones, an abundance of unique antiquities, delicious cuisine, good shopping - all this annually attracts up to 10,000,000 tourists here. Such impressive figures give reason to conclude that Portugal, with its Azores and the Madeira archipelago, ranks 5th in Europe in terms of tourist flow. However, the measured, sedate rest inherent in it is available only to real gourmets with “above average” incomes, who, as a rule, have already seen many countries and are now looking for something unhackneyed and very interesting in Europe. Therefore, there is no talk of high demand for this tourist destination among Russians.
High season
The largest number admirers of Portuguese holidays come to the country in the summer, when the weather is moderately hot, favoring both swimming in the waters of the Atlantic and participating in various excursion programs. The two weeks of the New Year are also high season. Travelers book vouchers both to the continental part of the country and to the island of Madeira, where they rest all year round due to its warm climate. By the way, a magnificent carnival takes place here in February, so tickets are sold out several months in advance. Portugal is visited by travelers from absolutely different parts of the world, but on this moment leading tourists from Britain (the Queen of England is very fond of Portugal), America, Canada, Holland and Germany. There are never crowds in Portugal, even in the height of summer. Russians in high season quite a few. There is a lack of regular direct flights.
low season
The low season in Portugal falls on the period from November to the last days of April, with the exception of holidays and religious weeks. Thanks to warm climate, which is considered one of the most favorable in Europe, you can relax in this country even in winter. And Madeira is generally considered a year-round resort, but more suitable for eco-tourism, since good beaches there is practically none. Main advantage low season are very affordable prices for accommodation, excursions and meals in restaurants. So, the same hotel room in winter will cost about half as much. Reduced prices for SPA-procedures. Therefore, if the cultural and historical heritage of Portugal and its gastronomy are more important to you than a beach holiday, which, in principle, can be replaced by a luxurious heated pool, then do not waste time and book a tour now.
Beach season in Portugal
Opens mid-April beach season. Sun rays in the midday hours they already bake well, but at the same time they are quite safe. With patience, you can get a wonderful tan. But even the most seasoned holiday-makers do not dare to swim either this or next month - the water temperature is still about +14 °C .. +16 °C. The bathing season in Madeira begins first of all, since by mid-late May coastal waters oceans warm up to +20 °C..21 °C. In general, for many, Portugal will not seem like a suitable place for a beach holiday, because the maximum water temperature, usually reached in all resorts of its continental part, does not exceed +20 ° C under the influence of the cold Canary Current passing along the western shores. In addition, a cool wind constantly blows along the entire coast, which makes it rather chilly to go ashore after swimming. Well, if the desire to combine an excursion program with a beach holiday is great (after all, summer!), Then it is better to give preference southern resorts or the Madeira archipelago, where the maximum water temperature per season is approximately +23 °C.
Velvet season in Portugal
The velvet season, which falls in September in Portugal, is a relative concept, since the ocean significantly cools the perception of temperatures that are quite high for this time of year. Yes, and the water is somewhat invigorating - +20 °C .. +22 °C. If you are planning to improve your children's health during the velvet season, then this is unlikely to work out, it is best to prefer the same neighbor Spain, where there are still a lot of holidaymakers in September. In early autumn, they mostly book tours to the southern coast of the country, the Algarve province, or Madeira. In October, the ocean does not quite cool down -19 °C .. +20 °C, but more frequent rains and cold evenings can completely destroy hopes for a full-fledged beach holiday, so we advise you not to take risks and plan an appropriate vacation for more favorable months.
windsurfing season
The long coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, rarely completely calm, is amazing for all kinds of surfing. Enough low prices, safe undersea world, wonderful surf spots and professional instructors, and most importantly - great weather throughout the year have turned Portugal into one of the main centers of European surfing. Hundreds of thousands of fans of this sport visit the country every year. The advantage of boarding in this country is that the season here lasts all year round. In winter, Australians flock to the coast for "powerful pipes", and in summer - the inhabitants of the northern part of Spain in search of a moderate wave. The only disadvantage of local windsurfing is that in winter the water temperature does not exceed +14 °C .. +15 °C, however special suit saves the situation. The instructors themselves say that best conditions for windsurfing - the period from May to November, however, for those who feel confident on big waves, it is more expedient to prefer September - November and February - April. Among the popular surf spots in Portugal are Sintra, Sagres and Guincho. In winter, in Guincho, the wind speed reaches 30 m / s, which creates ideal conditions for advanced surfers.
fishing season
Fishing in Portugal has long been elevated to the rank of sport. Locals practically do not exchange for small fish, but “hunt” for big ones. If names like blue marlin, blue shark, golden mackerel, bigeye tuna, swordfish - caress your ears, then you definitely need to take part in this exciting action. Night fishing, jigging, trolling - the season is open all year round. The peak falls on July - October, when the catch is especially pleasing. If we are talking about lampreys, spearfishing for them opens in early spring.
The best time for excursions
Portugal was once a large kingdom that owned half the world. Today it has a huge number of architectural structures, historical monuments, taken under the protection of UNESCO. You will be amazed by the authentic atmosphere of ancient cities and the pristine beauty of the country's nature. In our opinion, the most favorable time for sightseeing in Portugal is April - the end of June and September - the beginning of November.
cruise season
In the middle of spring in Portugal, the navigation season opens, in which cruise ships deliver millions of tourists to the country's resorts. Portugal is one of the countries of entry during cruises, most often from St. Petersburg (via Denmark and the Netherlands), Copenhagen, Istanbul, Savona, Venice, Rome, Barcelona, etc. which stops are made in many cities of the country.
ski season
To date, Portugal can boast so far only one ski resort located almost in the very center of the country - "Serra da Estrela". It is superbly equipped, but most of all focused on beginners, although there is something for an advanced skier to do. Four red and one black track await them. The skiing season does not last long - from January to March. The largest influx of tourists is observed in February.
Wellness season
Magnificent climate, virgin nature, clear fresh air, intoxicated with the aromas of mountain herbs and flowers, abundance thermal springs, healing golden sands - all these innumerable riches of Portugal serve for the benefit of human health. The country has over 40 large balneological resorts and dozens of SPA complexes offering a wide range of health and beauty restoration services - from simple cosmetic procedures and anti-stress programs to treatment courses to correct the functioning of the musculoskeletal system, digestive tract. The best time to take care of your own health is early autumn and the second half of spring - early summer.
religious season
The Portuguese, especially those who live in the north of the country, are very religious people. They mark all dates according to the Catholic calendar. Religious processions and masses across the country are held on holidays such as Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the Feast of the Body of the Lord (exactly 60 days after Easter), St. John - June 24, Day of the Assumption of the Virgin - August 15, All Saints Day - November 1, Day Immaculate Conception- 8 December and Christmas - 25 December. Pilgrimage trips are very popular and hiking tours to holy places and miraculous springs, of which there are quite a few. For example, the city of Fatima is known throughout the world for the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary at the beginning of the 20th century, who predicted the near future of Russia. After that, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from all over the world began to flock here. Their largest influx occurs on March 13 and October 13 - these are the first and last dates of the phenomenon. Holy Mother of God. People also come here on the 13th of the summer months and on September 19th. In July, the Orthodox of Portugal traditionally carry out a pilgrimage, following in the footsteps of the Apostle James, in which believers from Russia and Ukraine also take part. Today, Russian tour operators are developing a wide variety of routes with visits to the holy places of Portugal. As a rule, they also include Spain.
football season
The Portuguese love football football teams there are a lot in the country. But Porto, Benfica and Sporting are among the most titled, forming the Big Three. The next season of games opens in September and ends in May.
theater season
Particular attention in cultural life Portugal occupies theatrical art. Ballet troupes and actors from different countries the world, including from Russia. The opening of the theatrical season falls on the beginning of May, and the end takes place in the middle - the end of October. In September, Porto traditionally hosts the "International Festival of Puppet Theatres", which "attracts" tens of thousands of fans from all over Europe.
Time for holidays and festivals
Portugal is famous for its noisy carnivals, and in each province the holiday has its own "color"
to the most significant public holidays The following events are attributed to Portugal: Carnival ("Fat") Tuesday, preceding the day of the beginning of Lent, Freedom Day - April 25 (the first day of the anti-fascist revolution against the regime of Antonio Salazar), Portugal Day - June 10 (the day of the death of the author of the epic about the history of Portugal ), the anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic - October 5 and Independence Day - December 1. For a whole year, the Portuguese walk either at noisy carnivals, or at fairs, or at several dozen festivals of various themes. The most magnificent festivities take place during the February carnival, which captures the whole country in a pleasant captivity. Particularly loud celebrations take place in Funchal on the island of Madeira, in the province of Lule and in Lisbon: huge platforms decorated with flowers, garlands and topped with huge papier-mâché dolls are moving along the streets, all this action is accompanied by a costumed procession, music and incendiary dances. In April, Madeira hosts a dazzling 4-day festival of exotic flowers, a similar festival is expected in September in Campo Maior. The whole of June is marked by a series of Festas de Lisboa events in honor of the Portuguese capital, which usually drag on until mid-July. In the middle of summer, one of the streets of Agueda turns into a real kingdom of colored umbrellas; an enchanting installation “Umbrella Sky” is arranged here, the beauty of which is breathtaking. The Portuguese know a lot about good food. Famous gastronomic festivities of the country include the Lisbon Fish & Flavors seafood festival in Lisbon in April and the chocolate festival in Obidos in the second half of February.
Climate in Portugal
The weather in Portugal is dictated by its location in the zone of influence of the subtropical Mediterranean climate, but it has moderate features. This means that sudden temperature changes are not typical for the country. Summers in southern Portugal are dry and not very hot, while winters are cool and damp. In the north of the country, most of the area occupied by hills, the average air and water temperatures are several degrees lower. There is often snow on the hills in winter. The climate of Madeira and the Azores is milder - there is no heat in summer, and very warm in winter. In general, the main volume of precipitation falls from November to April, the northern regions of the country receive them in greater quantities.
Portugal in spring
Spring in Portugal comes quite early - already in last days February. Nature is renewed with fresh greenery thanks to the land, which is “drunk” enough during the winter with an abundance of precipitation, and a subtle, subtle aroma of almonds and the sweet smell of acacia hovers in the air. Rains happen less and less, and the weather more often indulges in sunny days. Although in the north of the country residual manifestations of winter are still possible. Best of all at this time in Madeira, where tourist season lasts all year round. There, the thermometer can easily reach +20 ° C. In April, there is still enough precipitation, but it becomes much warmer, the first rays of the sun gently warm, gently gliding over the skin. Many rush to the beaches to lie a little on the sand and sunbathe, and someone dedicates a fine day to sightseeing. In May, very warm weather. The piercing blue of the bottomless sky is only occasionally disturbed by fluffy clouds floating across it, a light breeze blows. It can still rain, but very rarely. The only thing that can cause inconvenience at this time is a sharp cold snap immediately after sunset.
Temperature and weather in Portugal in spring
| March weather | April weather | May weather | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisbon | +17 +15 | +19 +16 | +22 +17 |
| Madeira | +19 +18 | +19 +18 | +21 +19 |
| Algarve | +18 +16 | +20 +17 | +22 +18 |
| Porto | +16 +14 | +18 +14 | +19 +15 |
| Coimbra | +17 | +19 | +21 |
| Evora | +17 | +19 | +22 |
| Faro | +18 +16 | +20 +17 | +22 +18 |
Portugal in summer
June is the most comfortable summer month in terms of weather with an average daily air temperature of about +25 °C. The sun shines up to 10 hours a day, its rays are already baking, but it is absolutely not hot, so, without any doubt, you can go on long excursion trips. The first days of summer are also marked by a decrease in precipitation and an increase in daylight hours. However, the ocean is still quite cool, so the bulk of tourists can be observed on land. On the islands, the situation is somewhat different. There, thanks warm current The Gulf Stream, the water warms up to +20 °C .. +21 °C, but because of the fresh ocean breezes that blow over the entire coastline, long bathing is not yet possible. At the height of the season, the air temperature in the continental part of Portugal warms up on average from +27 ° C to +30 ° C. Fortunately, these temperatures are well tolerated due to dry weather and low levels of relative humidity. Less hot in Madeira, this is an ideal holiday destination for those who do not tolerate the summer heat. In the northern regions it is much cooler, and in the mountains (by the way, we recommend going there on an excursion), the maximum temperature of the thermometer does not exceed +18 ° C. Keep in mind that evenings throughout Portugal are quite cool, so some warmer clothes in your suitcase are not crazy, but a reasonable necessity.
Temperature and weather in Portugal in summer
| June weather | July weather | August weather | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lisbon | +25 +18 | +27 +19 | +28 +20 |
| Madeira | +22 +20 | +24 +21 | +25 +23 |
| Algarve | +25 +19 | +29 +21 | +29 +22 |
| Porto | +22 +17 | +25 +18 | +25 +19 |
| Coimbra | +26 | +28 | +29 |
| Evora | +27 | +31 | +31 |
| Faro | +25 +19 | +29 +21 | +29 +22 |
Portugal in autumn
The first days of autumn in Portugal mark the beginning of the velvet season. Restrained warm weather, invigorating water and the prevailing amount sunny days in a month - the maximum that you can count on in September. The ocean has a significant influence on the weather, due to which even the most high temperatures in autumn they are felt quite moderately. Closer to October, the intensity of precipitation increases, more and more fogs make themselves felt, and as the evening approaches, it becomes noticeably cool. Unlike continental Portugal, in Madeira the summer festival continues. The weather here does not even think of spoiling, and many tourists are still swimming, however, the water and air temperatures are the same at this time - about +22 ° C. In November, her whims are more and more pronounced, and even on the islands, where the massive beach season is coming to an end. cold rains and strong winds become frequent guests. If you arrived in Portugal in late autumn, choose for your routes the central regions, remote from the Atlantic coast, which is very turbulent during this period.
Climate of Portugal
Portugal is a country on the westernmost coast of continental Europe with a mild Mediterranean subtropical climate. Half of the state border of the country is washed by the Atlantic Ocean, which completely determines the climate in all seasons, making summers not hot and winters warm. Negative temperatures there are only in the mountains.
Since the country is significantly elongated in the direction from north to south, the weather in continental Portugal differs in its different extremities. In the north, the temperature is winter months ranges from +5 to +10 degrees. In summer it is dry and sunny, but somewhat cool - about +20 degrees. In the southern tip of the state in the summer on the hottest days it can be up to +30.
The Portuguese live mainly on tourism, so almost all cities and small towns position themselves as resorts. It will be interesting and informative for inexperienced travelers to start their exploration of the country with an acquaintance with the capital of the country - Lisbon, and large, famous cities - Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, Brasa, Funchal and others. The mild climate makes Portugal extremely convenient for tourism, both in winter and in summer. The only thing that can interfere with the traveler and this should be taken into account - a large number of rainy days of the year mountainous areas.
Portugal in winter
Winter in the Portuguese subtropics will remind the inhabitant of temperate latitudes, rather, his usual, soft and warm spring. There is a lot of precipitation at this time of the year, but the number of sunny days will still be so significant that you will not notice the discomfort from occasional rains and fogs. But for this season, of course, you need to take an umbrella and warm clothes with you. bathing season closed for the winter, of course. However, in December, the water near the coast has not yet cooled down and its temperature on the finest days can reach +17-20 degrees. And this is quite comfortable for a seasoned person for swimming. By the end of winter, the number of rainy days steadily decreases, giving way to sunny days, for which Portugal deservedly breaks many world records.
Portugal in spring
The Romans called the country "terra de luz" - the land of eternal spring, and already in the spring one can fully agree with such an assessment of the weather in Portugal. For three months from March to May, the air temperature manages to rise from 12-15 degrees to 20-24 degrees, depending on the region of the country. During the day it is quite possible to swim. The water temperature on the south coast reaches 21 degrees, on the west it will be slightly lower. Humidity is significantly lower than in the winter months, which means that the weather most often remains sunny. In the evening and at night, the air temperature drops to 10 degrees Celsius, and therefore it is worth taking care of a warm sweater.
Summer in Portugal
Summer in the country is characterized by exquisite softness. During the day, even on the hottest days, the air warms up to barely 30 degrees Celsius. At night, the temperature drops to +20 or even slightly lower. Therefore, in summer months Europeans and residents of other countries of the world are so eager to come here. The tourist village of Europe is the name of this country. And quite understandable. Only a few cities in Portugal (less than a dozen) can boast a population of more than two hundred thousand people. The rest are small settlements, according to the number of inhabitants, more related to urban-type settlements and even villages. A mild, not hot summer should be devoted to visiting small in size, but rich in history, towns and villages in Portugal. Also, summer is favorable for the swimming season. The water in the ocean warms up to +23 degrees and is very comfortable for swimming.
Portugal in autumn
Autumn in Portugal begins with warm September +21-27 degrees and ends with cool November +11-17 degrees. On the Portuguese islands, this temperature transition is not as noticeable as on the mainland. The water temperature remains quite high until the beginning of November and allows bathers to extend the swimming season as much as possible. The humidity of the air gradually increases and in autumn cloudy and rainy days are no longer uncommon. In general, the impression autumn weather in Portugal it is as bright and pleasant as at any other time of the year.
Weather in Portugal today
The climate of Portugal is Mediterranean, with a pronounced influence of the ocean (which keeps the temperature in the country lower than at the same latitudes in the Mediterranean). The north of the country, especially the mountainous region, is distinguished high humidity, with average annual amounts precipitation from 1 to 2 m or more. To the south, the humidity gradually decreases, the climate becomes much drier, with long, clear and hot summers; in the south, the average annual rainfall is less than 500 mm in places. Portugal is the country with the largest number of sunny days in Europe. In the southern regions, the number sundial reaches 3000 per year. In northern Portugal, the high-altitude climatic zonality, mountainous areas have a cool climate, in winter there is a snow cover for several months. The greatest number of sieges is observed on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela, the top of which is covered with snow in November-May.
Portugal is the country with the largest number of sunny days in Europe. In the southern regions, the number of sunny hours per year reaches 3000.
The swimming season on the west coast lasts only three months, but even during this period swimming is not for everyone - the water temperature is about +18. The water warms up more near the southern coast (up to +21), where the bulk of the resort towns are concentrated.
Portugal is known for its subtropical, Mediterranean and mountain climate. very strong climate change not observed here in winter and summer. In the summer in Portugal, the air temperature ranges from nineteen degrees to twenty-five plus in the plains, and only a few degrees less in the mountains. In winter, the temperature does not fall below five degrees in the mountains, and in the plains it does not fall below eight degrees. Therefore, we can say that the climate in Portugal is warm, but not hot.
The Madeira Islands, which are located in the Atlantic Ocean, are distinguished by their long swimming season. Here the air temperature never falls below seventeen degrees. But it is never very hot here either, since the maximum air temperature can increase up to twenty-five degrees.
The climate is mostly subtropical, oceanic, very warm and mild. Azores, which are part of Portugal, are also distinguished by their even temperature. It’s not that it’s too hot here, but it’s not too cold either. The water temperature during the year never crosses below 10 degrees, so the swimming season here can almost never stop.
Precipitation falls more in the autumn-winter season, so if you decide to spend your holidays in Portugal, it is best to do this from July to September. During this period, the least amount of precipitation falls, and the water and air temperatures are optimal for recreation. Precipitation in Portugal mostly falls in winter. In addition, there are significant differences between the northern and southern part countries. If there is little precipitation in the south, then the north almost never thirsts for moisture. Here it is either rain or snow, and the mountain peaks are constantly covered with snow. Quite a different situation in the valleys. Here precipitation is much less frequent. And in the hot season, they are completely absent. Coastal landscapes delight the eye with their rich greenery, while valley landscapes are more like a constant drought. It rains very rarely in the east of Portugal, and the air masses that come into these valleys are already completely devastated. There is practically no moisture left in them. As a result, the average rainfall in the mountains is 1000 mm, on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela - 2500 mm per year, and in the east of the country - 600 mm per year. Central and southern Portugal is characterized by the following indicators - 400-800 mm per year, and on the coast - 300 mm per year.
Portugal is known for its large number of magnificent sandy beaches, but, unfortunately, West Coast Northern Portugal is not rich in large resort holiday destinations. This is due to the fact that cold water currents allow you to enjoy water procedures in the Atlantic Ocean only three months a year. But closer to the south there are many magnificent resort villages and towns. You can swim here almost all year round. The water warms up much better, as it is removed from the Canary Current.
In general, we can say that the climate of Portugal is pleasant. The absence of sweltering heat and icy cold makes it convenient for relaxation and life in general. Due to the mild climate, the nature of Portugal is very peculiar and beautiful.
Best time to visit:
The best time for a beach holiday on the mainland of Portugal is from July to September, when the water temperature reaches +19...21 o. In general, the climate of Portugal is very favorable, and it can be visited at any time. It is interesting to visit the country in February, when the Carnival takes place.
Climate and weather in Portugal (Azores)
The Azores are subtropical climate zone. Throughout the year, they are the area of formation of the Azores anticyclone. The influence of the warm Gulf Stream and the anticyclone provide the Azores with a relative temperature equilibrium. During the winter months, daytime temperatures fluctuate around +16o, at night around +13o. In summer, the heat is never suffocating. by the most warm month is August with an average daytime temperature of +23o and +18o at night. Maximum temperatures reach +30o. From September to April it often rains, after which the sun peeps out again, there are fogs. The maximum monthly rainfall is 110 mm. Annual rainfall increases westward from 700 mm on San Miguel to 1600 mm on Flores. Dry and partly cloudy weather prevails from June to September. The water temperature during the year ranges from +17 to +23o.
An interesting feature is the climate on the island of Santa Maria. On one part (where the airport and the city of Vila do Porto are located), the sun always shines, and it rains very rarely. In the other part of the island, the climate is more humid and it rains more often. In Floris and Corvo, the westernmost islands, the weather is very changeable, even within the same day.
Best time to visit:
The Azores are almost a year-round resort, but the best time to relax on the beach is from June to September. At this time, water and air warm up to almost the same temperatures - up to +23 - 24. In July and August it is sometimes hot, up to +30. If you want to take a walk and enjoy the nature of the islands, then the most suitable time is spring. The air temperature at this time of the year is +15 - 17 degrees. There are rains, but they only last a few hours. You can admire the whales, the main natural attraction of the archipelago, in June and May, during their migration to the summer feeding areas. Swimming with dolphins is organized from June to October. Many ornithologists and bird watchers come to the Azores. The best time to travel for this purpose is from August to December.
Climate and weather in Portugal (Madeira)
Madeira belongs to the subtropical climate zone. Due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, the air coming from Africa is humidified, and the climate on the island is milder than in the nearby Canary Islands. Average daily temperature in summer + 21 - 23o, night - +17 - 20o. In winter, during the day, the thermometer rises to + 15 - 17 o, and by night it drops by 2 - 3 o. Most of rainfall occurs in autumn and winter, with November being the rainiest month. average monthly amount rainfall 100 mm. The driest months are July and August, when the amount of precipitation does not exceed 3 mm. Porto Santo has a drier climate due to the flatter terrain. In general, there are about 20 microclimates on the islands, so you need to be prepared for anything. If the sun is hot in Funchal, it can be quite cool and rainy in the mountains.
Best time to visit:
Madeira is a year-round resort. In summer there is no sweltering heat, in winter it is warm, and the water temperature does not drop below +17o. The hottest month is August, for which the characteristic daytime temperature is +25o, and the night temperature is +20o.Water temperature in Funchal (Portugal, Madeira)
Continental Portugal has a Mediterranean climate. climatic conditions this country is significantly influenced by the proximity of the ocean. In the northern regions of Portugal, due to the mountainous terrain, the climate is characterized by high humidity; closer to the south, the humidity decreases. Precipitation in the south of the country is also less. The main share of precipitation falls on the autumn-winter period.
January
This is the most cold month in a year. Depending on the region, the air temperature during the day ranges from +13 to +17 °C. Night air temperature can drop to +6…+12 °С. There are no more than 15 sunny days per month, the rest of the time it is overcast weather rain is likely.
Coastal regions are much warmer than mountainous regions. The Serra da Estrela mountains often experience snowfalls, and at the top the air temperature drops below 0 ºC.
February
It is also cool in February, the average air temperature is 2-3 °C higher than in January. On the coast this month can be five or six rainy days.
March
In March, spring begins in most of the country, and the number of sunny days increases. Frosts are possible only in mountainous areas. The warm sun in some places warms the air up to +19 °С. However, the nights are still cold, at night the thermometer can drop to +10 °C. It rains three or four times a month.
April
The weather in April is already truly spring. However, for a beach holiday it is still quite cool. Daytime air temperature reaches +20 °С, and at night it drops to +12…+13 °С. Rainy days are possible.
It usually doesn't rain in May. During the day the air warms up to +20…+22 °С. And at night, the thermometer, as a rule, does not fall below +15 ° С. In the second half of the month, the beach season begins.
June
June pleases with quite warm and stable weather. There are no sultry heat this month, and precipitation is a rare occurrence. The air warms up to +24 °С during the day, and the night temperature is +17…+19 °С. The swimming season in the south of the country is already in full swing. Water in the Atlantic warms up to +20 °C.
July
Usually July is the warmest and driest month of the year. Daytime air temperature can reach +27 °С. July is also the most solar month. Lisbon has up to 29 sunny days this month.
August
This month is great for a beach holiday. It is still warm during the day, the air warms up to +28 °С, and the water in the ocean reaches +24 °С. There can be one rainy day for the whole month.
September
In September for beach resorts in the southern part of the country, the velvet season begins, and in the north of the country there is no longer a summer heat. It can be quite hot in Lisbon during the day, the air warms up to +26 °C. Water near the coast can warm up to +22 °C.
October
This warm autumn month still offers plenty of fine days, but it gets chilly for a beach holiday. Daytime air temperature this month ranges from +18 to +21 °C.
November
The weather in November reminds that autumn is already in Portugal. It may rain for several days in a row. However, there are no cold weather in November. The average daily air this month is +17 °С
December
In the coastal regions of Portugal, December is characterized by cool weather. Day air temperature +14…+17 °C. There are 10-12 rainy days this month. And snow falls in the mountains. The ski season begins on the slopes of the Serra da Estrela.