Portugal remains a year-round travel destination, but choosing the right season can help visitors avoid crowds and reduce costs. According to a report by Condé Nast Traveller, spring and winter months offer the best mix of weather and value as tourism pressure continues to rise across the country.

March remains among the best months to visit Portugal, as spring brings mild weather before peak tourist traffic begins. February and early April also offer pleasant conditions for sightseeing. Beach travellers heading to the Algarve are advised to plan trips between July and October, though July and August see heavy crowds and high temperatures.

Cheapest travel window runs from November to March

For budget-conscious travellers, the report points to November through March as the most affordable period. Hotels typically offer low-season rates during these months, although visitors should expect cooler weather and higher chances of rain, particularly along the coast and in northern Portugal.

Peak season stretches from May to September

As reported by Conde Nast Traveller, Portugal’s peak tourist season now runs from May to September, driven by demand for coastal destinations. July and August are the busiest months for beach regions, while September and October attract visitors to the Douro Valley during the wine harvest. Travellers visiting during peak months should stay outside city centres and explore countryside accommodation.

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For first-time visitors, travellers must visit Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley, with the Algarve added for beach travel. A stay of about 10 days allows enough time to explore multiple regions.