Weather and light in August
| Marker | August |
|---|---|
| Temperatures | about 16 to 26 °C, heatwaves possible |
| Rain | rare |
| Sunset | from 20:55 in early August to about 20:15 at the end |
| Sea | about 17 to 18 °C: cool |
| Crowds | the highest of the year |
What to do in August
Plan the day around the heat: monuments in the morning (cathedral, Stock Exchange Palace), a break in the afternoon, then the river at the end of the day with the six bridges cruise. The Foz and Matosinhos beaches are at their best, with cool water. For the Douro, choose a trip with a cruise and air-conditioned cellars, leaving early: see which Douro trip to pick. The Gaia cellars offer cool air by day. When the crowd weighs, try the Crystal Palace gardens.
Events of the month
- 15 August: Assumption, public holiday, a Sunday in 2027.
- Wildfires: in northern Portugal they can disrupt some roads and excursions in summer; follow local advice before you set out.
Prices and booking
August is the most expensive month: book the hotel several months ahead (where to stay in Porto), and the Lello tickets and the cellars a few days before. Budget: travel budget for Porto.
What to pack
Light, pale clothes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle, a swimsuit, a thin jacket for the river at the end of the day.
Going further
Porto in July, Porto in September and the best time to visit Porto.
