Porto's climate in brief
The city feels the influence of the Atlantic: hot, dry summers, mild winters, and plenty of rain from November to February. In summer, the morning can be overcast by the ocean while the centre is sunny. Always pack a light layer and a raincoat, even out of season.
| Month | Highs and lows (order of magnitude) | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| January | 14° / 6° | Rainy, few people |
| February | 15° / 7° | Cool, low prices |
| March | 17° / 8° | First fine days, showers |
| April | 19° / 10° | Easter, changeable weather |
| May | 21° / 12° | One of the best months |
| June | 24° / 14° | São João, festivals |
| July | 26° / 16° | Hot and very busy |
| August | 26° / 16° | High season, high prices |
| September | 25° / 15° | Very pleasant, grape harvest |
| October | 21° / 12° | Mild, first rains |
| November | 17° / 9° | Rainy |
| December | 14° / 7° | Christmas lights |
Spring: May, one of the best choices
In March and April, the weather is still changeable and it can rain several days in a row. May is an ideal compromise: terraces are open, the temperature suits walking and the city is not yet full. The days are long, which leaves time for the Gaia cellars and the viewpoints.
Summer: festivals, heat and crowds
June is the month of festivals. On the night of 23 to 24 June, São João in Porto is the city's biggest popular event: packed streets, grilled sardines, fireworks over the Douro. Book accommodation very early, as it is then full and expensive. Primavera Sound Porto also takes place in June.
July and August are the hottest and busiest months: visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and book the Livraria Lello and the cellars in advance. The beaches of Foz and Matosinhos are then at their most pleasant, but the water stays cool, as the Atlantic hardly warms up.
Autumn: September and October
September is often the best month to visit Porto: the temperature stays mild, the crowds recede and the light is lovely at the end of the day. It is also the grape-harvest period in the Douro valley, which can be explored on a day trip. October keeps some fine days, with rain increasingly frequent. November is decidedly rainy.
Winter: quiet, rain and Christmas lights
From December to February, Porto is quiet and hotels are cheaper. It often rains, but museums, cafés and the Bolhão Market suit the weather. The city lights up for Christmas and New Year, with markets, illuminations and fireworks. For rainy days, see our guide What to do in Porto when it rains.
Our advice by profile
| You are looking for | When to come |
|---|---|
| Good weather without crowds | May or September |
| Festivals and atmosphere | Late June (São João) |
| Beach and heat | July and August |
| Lowest prices | January and February |
| Photos and light | September and October |
Further reading
To plan your stay, see Porto in 3 days and Porto on a budget. If you are unsure about accommodation, read where to stay in Porto.
