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Lisbon

Portugal’s capital Lisbon houses a host of delights without the hassle of other major European metropolises. With its quaint, narrow backstreets brimming with charms to discover, Lisbon is home to quirky museums, stoic monasteries and Gothic cathedrals to explore by foot. Set on hills which provide breathtaking views over the Rio Tejo, Lisbon is an under-rated gem of a city on the Iberian peninsula.

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What you’ll love most about Lisbon

  • Immerse yourself in the historic charm of Lisbon’s Alfama district, where winding alleys, colourful tiles, and ancient buildings create a picturesque maze that transports you back in time to Portugal’s Moorish past
  • Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Jerónimos Monastery and the nearby Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, which stand as iconic symbols of Portugal’s Age of Discovery and showcase exquisite Manueline architecture
  • Discover Lisbon’s vibrant street art scene in the trendy neighborhoods of Bairro Alto and LX Factory, where colorful murals and graffiti-covered walls provide a dynamic backdrop for contemporary art and urban culture
  • Take in panoramic views of the city from the historic São Jorge Castle, perched atop a hill overlooking Lisbon, where medieval fortifications and lush gardens offer a serene escape and breathtaking vistas of the Tagus River
  • Explore the historic district of Belém, where you can indulge in Portugal’s culinary delights with a visit to the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery for traditional custard tarts, and admire historic landmarks like the Monument to the Discoveries
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of Lisbon’s traditional markets, such as the Mercado da Ribeira and the Feira da Ladra flea market, where you can shop for local crafts, vintage treasures, and fresh produce amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life
  • Holidays to Portugal

  • Lisbon City Breaks

  • City Breaks to Lisbon

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 15℃
  • 16℃
  • 18℃
  • 20℃
  • 22℃
  • 25℃
  • 28℃
  • 28℃
  • 26℃
  • 22℃
  • 18℃
  • 15℃
  • 15
  • 15
  • 13
  • 12
  • 8
  • 5
  • 2
  • 2
  • 6
  • 11
  • 14
  • 14

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January brings a quieter, more contemplative vibe to Lisbon. The streets are less crowded, making it an ideal time to discover hidden gems like the historic Alfama district and cafes.

February

The cool breeze of February sweeps through the city, offering a fresh, invigorating atmosphere. Exploring iconic spots like Belém or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the Tagus River feels especially rewarding.

March

Spring begins to emerge in March, with blossoming trees adding a pop of colour to the city streets. Daytime temperatures average 17°C, making it a pleasant time to explore Lisbon’s unique viewpoints, like Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.

April

By April, the city takes on a vibrant charm as the sun warms the cobblestone streets. With highs around 18°C, locals and visitors alike enjoy sitting in outdoor squares, savouring pastel de nata and coffee.

May

Temperatures climb to about 22°C in May, and Lisbon begins to feel alive with festivals and open-air events. Days are perfect for exploring historic neighbourhoods like Baixa and Chiado or taking a tram ride through the hills.

June

The summer season kicks off in June, bringing sunny skies and daytime temperatures around 27°C. This is the best time for exploring Lisbon’s waterfront areas or heading to nearby beaches like Cascais and Estoril.

July

July is bustling, with temperatures reaching 30°C. The city is alive with street performers, festivals, and rooftop terraces offering amazing views of the Tagus River at sunset.

August

August is one of the hottest months in Lisbon, with highs often around 31°C. Many locals head to the beach, and the city has a slightly quieter, relaxed vibe. Exploring cultural museums or sipping chilled vinho verde offers a perfect way to cool down.

September

September brings a shift in the weather as temperatures settle into a comfortable 26°C range. The summer crowds begin to thin, and it’s an excellent time for walking the streets, enjoying local restaurants, and visiting the markets.

October

October offers mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures averaging 20°C. The cobblestone streets and historic squares are perfect for exploration, and it’s a great month to discover Lisbon’s art scene and cafés.

November

By November, Lisbon begins to embrace a more intimate atmosphere. The air cools to around 18°C, and the city’s holiday charm starts to emerge. Exploring museums, sipping coffee at local bakeries, or catching a Fado performance feels especially inviting.

December

As December rolls in, Lisbon becomes festive with twinkling lights and holiday markets. While the air is cool, it’s a perfect time to enjoy the warm hospitality of local restaurants and unwind with cultural activities like Fado performances.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Where to book


CroisiEurope Cruises has been pioneering European river cruising for over four decades and they now offer fly-cruise packages from the UK. Experience an unforgettable journey through Europe and see for yourself why CroisiEurope is the ultimate choice for travellers.

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Explore is a global adventure travel company with 40 years’ experience in providing exciting and authentic travel experiences. With over 350 trips in around 100 countries, Explore’s expertly crafted itineraries combined with award-winning tour leaders, small group sizes and a commitment to responsible travel ensure unforgettable travel experiences in extraordinary destinations.

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“At Just You, we’ve been crafting worldwide touring holidays specifically for solo travellers for over 20 years. There’s so much included in our tours: flights, accommodation (own rooms are guaranteed) and all breakfasts. We pack in amazing experiences, as well as free time to relax and explore. With expert Holiday Directors, we’re there for you throughout your trip.”

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Riviera Travel is the UK’s leading luxury river cruise & tour company with over 38 years’ experience in crafting worldwide tours, luxury river cruises, rail holidays and UK tours. Their commitment to quality & thoughtfulness has earned them a coveted Which? recommendation.

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