1 Freezing Cold February: Weather in Portugal

January and February Weather in Portugal is typically humid, wet, and chilly, but don’t let that deter you! Compared to many parts of the U.S., especially the Northeast or Midwest, Portugal’s winter weather feels relatively mild. You’ll still get daytime highs in the 50s Fahrenheit(10ºC) or even low 60s °F (around 15ºC), depending on the region. However, the minimum temperature can be quite low, as you will see in the next section.

One advantage of visiting Portugal during the off-season is that there are fewer tourists, lower prices, and a chance to experience a more authentic side of Portugal, including cozy cafés, and hearty winter dishes. The exception is the Serra da Estrela Region that might receive more visits during this time.

With that in mind, let’s dive into the weather in Portugal focusing on February. We will share a few tips on how to make the most of your winter trip!

Cold February Weather in Portugal with Rainy Days

What is the temperature of Portugal in February?

Temperatures in February typically range between 46º Fahrenheit (8ºC) and 61º Fahrenheit (16ºC), usually colder and windier at night. The further inland and higher inland, temperatures can reach negative temperatures, but usually no more than 23ºF (-5ºC). January in Portugal can be slightly colder.

On the other hand, coastal cities benefit from milder temperatures, while interior regions face more extreme temperatures. The disadvantage of cities and towns near the sea is that it can become very windy. As March approaches, the weather starts to get slightly warmer. See some hearty Portuguese dishes to keep warm this winter.

Does it snow in Portugal in January and February?

Sometimes, Portugal is affected by a cold front that makes temperatures drop to 0ºc (25 º F), or even to negative temperatures. Cold places like the Serra da Estrela and others at high altitudes, offer plenty of snow. Do be careful, there’s always the possibility of slipping during a walk or drifting on black ice during a road trip. It is especially humid and cold during the morning in many places in Portugal, and ice can form on the road or frost on the grass. 

Even though it might be cloudy, UV rays can still harm you. Use a SPF 50+ sunscreen if you plan on doing a lot of walking or venturing yourself in the snow. Did you know snow reflects sunlight? Use special goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes too. With that said, if you want to enjoy the snow in Portugal, see this article

Does it rain in Portugal in January and February?

As December progresses to January, the probability of rain and snow increases, so an umbrella or rain coat will come in handy. It can either not rain at all, rain a little or rain a lot in January and February. With global warming, sudden changes in weather also occur more frequently and there can be predictions of heavy rainfall. Coastal areas can seem colder, especially in the North due to the humidity and wind.The islands usually register milder temperatures, but are not immune to hurricanes and storms. See IPMA for any important alerts about the weather in Portugal.

What to pack for the February Weather in Portugal

• Shirts and warm sweatshirts/jumpers
• Warm Jackets
• Skirts and dresses (perhaps with tights and adequate to cold, humid weather) 
• Warm Trousers 
• Comfortable sneakers (preferably impermeable for the rain)/boots (avoid high heels to walk long-distances on the streets, as the cobblestone gets quite slippery with rain/humid weather)
• Pajamas/Pyjamas
• UV sunscreen
• Sunglasses/winter sports goggles (if you plan on skiing or snowboarding)
• Umbrella and Warm Raincoat
• Water container (to fill up, if you plan on hiking)
• Other amenities

Dealing with Extreme January and February Weather in Portugal

During the Autumn and Winter months, there can be storms, with rain and thunder. Generally, they last 1 to 3 days and there can be sudden showers of heavy rainfall. Avoid critical areas, like beaches, rivers, tunnels and low city areas. Wind can also be very strong, especially in coastal areas. So, be careful with possible falling objects or trees. Drive defensively and don’t pass through flooded areas. There’s a possibility that your car gets stuck or gets dragged away. Finally, during the critical period, avoid or limit travel to only what is strictly necessary.

If it snows, drive defensively and use rain chains if necessary.

Also, check the recommendations of IPMA, Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere, and see if there are any yellow, orange or red alerts. The red one is the most severe. Stay safe!

Tips for February Weather in Portugal 

If have Mild Weather in Portugal:

Some weeks or days, the weather appears to be relatively mild with temperatures around 15 ºC (59º F).

• Explore historic towns

Take a stroll around the centers of Évora, Coimbra or Sintra, when the weather is cooler and there is little to no rain. You can walk without sweating (like in Summer) and avoid crowds of the peak season. 

• Enjoy Markets, fairs and others

Some Christmas markets are still open at the start of January, and there are local markets (open year-round) where you can get fresh produce. Each city has their own typical pastries and sweets which can be sold in cafés, fairs or markets. See some examples of fairs, expositions and markets in Lisbon, right here in our article.

If you have Raining/Snowing Weather in Portugal:

• Visit museums or palaces

Visit the Royal Treasure museum or the Ajuda Palace in Lisbon. If you’re in Porto, visit the Soares dos Reis Museum or Serralves Museum, among many others. Portugal is a country full of history, so you’ll find many museums and palaces to visit.

• Read in a Historic Café

Relax in a café and read your favourite book. Look here for some of our suggestions.

• Visit indoor markets

Time Out Market in Lisbon and Porto offer a big variety of food, including Michelin-star dishes, traditional cuisine or vegan options. Additionally, Mercado do Bolhão is one of the markets you can’t miss in Porto. Try the fresh local produce with your family. Discover what to eat in Porto.

• Go winetasting

There are many places with options of wine tasting in Portugal. Explore the different wine regions in Portugal in our upcoming article (we will leave a link here when its ready).

• Go to a cooking or art workshop

Have fun making local pastries or let your creativity fly in cool art projects. There are many schools and organizations offering these types of activities around Portugal.

• Enjoy the snow

Practice snow sports, like skiing or snowboarding in the Serra da Estrela Resort. See more details in the link of the box below and see where it snows in Portugal.

The February weather in Portugal is not the best, but it does present its advantages.

One benefit of traveling in January and February is that there will be fewer tourists and plenty of markets, fairs and activities to enjoy. In addition to this, you will probably find reduced prices and more hotel rooms available. And thirdly, you’ll be able to enjoy the snow in highest regions of Portugal!