In the south of Portugal awaits the stunning region known as Algarve. Renowned for its incredible beaches, picturesque coastline, as well as plenty of opportunities to indulge in world-class golf, the Algarve is a popular destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking forward to exploring the vibrant cities of Faro, Tavira or Albufeira, or are dreaming of your big annual family holiday spent with toes dipped in the whispering waters of the ocean, the Algarve has plenty to offer all year round.
Being in the Mediterranean, the climate in the Algarve is typically comfortable and warm. However, there are differences throughout the year that you will need to consider before you book your vacation. Furthermore, there are some events throughout the year that should definitely be on your bucket list if you want to make the most of the destination, and enjoy an authentic experience of Algarve.
To truly make the most of your time away on the Algarve, our villas in Portugal promise a dream break to remember. With sun-drenched pools and shady alfresco dining terraces accompanied by inviting air-conditioned interiors, our luxury villas on the Algarve set the scene for a timeless getaway.
Not sure which month to visit? We’ve put together this handy guide to visiting Algarve all year round, so you can discover the best time to go to Algarve for the kind of vacation you are dreaming of.
Algarve in January
Algarve weather January
In January, Algarve, like the rest of Europe, is firmly in the center of its winter season. Though it is highly unlikely you’ll ever experience snow whilst in the Algarve, the weather in Algarve in January isn’t for you if you’re dreaming of lounging on a beach beneath a hot sun. Throughout January, Algarve can experience rain for a large portion of the month, and sometimes even thunderstorms and fog.
Temperature in Algarve in January
January in Algarve is often the coldest month of the year – though this doesn’t necessarily mean it is cold exactly. Thanks to its prime position deeply South in the Mediterranean, the region experiences an average low of 9 degrees Celsius (48F), and an average high of 16 degrees Celsius (61F). So don’t worry about packing your thermals, but do remember to bring a coat, some sweaters, and water-proof clothing.
Is January a good time to visit Algarve?
Despite the lower temperatures and potentially rainy and foggy weather, January can still be a good time to visit Algarve if you aren’t looking for a beach holiday. As it is in the low season, right after Christmas, you can expect the tourist crowds to be significantly smaller (and we mean significantly.) So not only does this mean you can enjoy the delights of the cities and explore the countryside (with a jacket packed in your backpack of course for the chillier days) without needing to elbow your way through the crowds, but it is highly likely that flight prices will be low, and hotel accommodation will be in abundance.
There are also a couple of events on in the Algarve in January, including the Festa das Chouriças in Querença, which celebrates St Luis with home-made Chouriço sausages, a parade, and music.
Algarve in February
Algarve weather February
Like in January, if you’re seeking a typical Algarve holiday spent basking in the sunshine, it’s best not to visit in February. This is another great month for those wanting to explore the cities, towns, and countryside of the region without getting a sunburn. The weather in February in Algarve can get quite rainy, with an average of 11 days out of the month experiencing rain, with around 55mm in total throughout the month.
Algarve temperature February
Though February is still very cool, as it is still within Europe’s winter season, the temperature does increase ever so slightly compared to the previous month.The average high typically reaches around 17 degrees Celsius (63F), and lows of around 14 degrees Celsius (57F). Again, you will still need your sweaters and coats, but you may find on some days that a long-sleeve shirt will suffice. Just make sure you remember your umbrella in case you visit during a rainy patch.
Is February a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, February is a good month to visit Algarve if you don’t mind a little bit of rain. It is slightly warmer than in January, but still in low-season, so you can expect flights and accommodation to be more reasonable than in peak times. We recommend visiting in February for those exploring the cities and countryside, as it is not quite beach weather yet. However, you may find that due to Valentine’s Day on February 14th, prices and crowds might increase around this point, both for couples and those traveling with families as schools in the UK are closed for a week. Be sure to avoid this date if you want the quietest experience possible.
Algarve in march
Algarve weather March
March is fairly similar to the month of February in Algarve. You can expect quite a lot of rain still, as the season slowly marches onward from winter to spring. The beaches are likely a no-go during this month, but as it gets slightly warmer, you can think about ditching the coats as you explore all the cities this region has to offer.
Temperature in Algarve, Portugal, in March
As another rainy month, you can expect the temperature to be fairly consistent with February. An average high in March can reach around 19 degrees Celsius (66F), with lows around 12 degrees Celsius (53.6F). Ensure you pack warm clothing in case the mercury hovers around the lower end of the temperature, but otherwise, you should do just fine with long pants and long-sleeved tops.
Is March a good time to visit Algarve?
It is a very similar experience traveling to Algarve in February as it is March. The region can experience anywhere between 8 and 15 days of rain, but the temperature is typically fairly comfortable, especially with long-sleeve clothing. The crowds of those visiting Algarve will still be nowhere near the levels you’ll find in peak season, which also means you will still find reasonably priced flights and accommodation at this time. March is a great time to travel to the Algarve for culture-focused vacations, with the added luxury of a more authentic experience with less tourists in the area.
Algarve in April
Algarve weather April
In April, the rain begins to ease up a little, with the rainiest months now past. Still, the Algarve can experience around 8 days worth of rain, and can be quite hard to predict as the winter season comes to a close and spring begins. It is worth packing your waterproofs still, if you plan to travel in April. Apart from the rain, you can expect the days to grow longer, and the temperatures to sit a little higher.
April temperature Algarve
Though it is still not yet hot at the start of spring, the temperatures do climb a little as the region leaves its cold season. It is comfortable during the day, and a little chilly at night. Make sure you bring a variety of clothing to suit both warm days, cool breezes, and crisp evenings. In terms of temperature the average high can sit around 20 degrees Celsius (68F), and in colder years, the average low can reach about 14 degrees Celsius (57F)- nothing a sweater won’t fix!
Is April a good time to visit Algarve?
Typically, yes, April is a great time to visit Algarve if you are looking for milder temperatures. In this month, you are likely to experience less rain than you would in the winter months of January, February and March, as well as slightly warmer temperatures. This means, especially if you are exploring the cities, you can enjoy long, sunny days with a bit of rain here and there, and without overwhelming heat.
Do keep in mind, however, that Easter is in April. This means that not only do celebrations take place that may get a little busy, but schools in the UK are broken up for two weeks, and some schools in the USA may start their spring breaks this month. That means that tourist crowds may increase significantly in this month, for those coming to experience Easter in Portugal, and those with children who are looking to get away while they can. Furthermore, some establishments, such as shops, could be closed, so check ahead if there is anything you absolutely do not want to miss out on during your vacation, to make sure it is open during this time.
On the other hand, Easter is a fantastic time to travel if you are looking to experience how the Portuguese celebrate this religious holiday. You can expect plenty of celebrations including an Easter Egg hunt in Quinta do Lago, and the Feast of the Sovereign Mother in Loulé, which also happens to be one of the biggest Easter processions in Portugal.
Algarve in May
Algarve weather May
We are fully on our way towards the warmer months in the Algarve in May. The weather is typically very mild, with a few scattered showers left over from the rainy season occurring throughout the month, with an expectation of around three to eight days worth of showers. You should be more than comfortable with a thin waterproof, long-sleeved shirts, and perhaps a jumper for when the temperature dips in the evenings. However, May can be warm and sunny, so you might not need long-sleeves at all during the day – though it’s best to bring them with you anyway during May.
Algarve temperature May
The temperature continues to increase as spring goes into full swing in the Algarve during May. There is an average high of 23 degrees Celsius (73F) and average low of 14 degrees Celsius (57F) in the nighttime. So the days are growing significantly warmer, with comfortable weather that is likely to mean you can wear t-shirts (with the odd chance of rain), and nighttime temperatures that can be made comfortable with a thin jumper.
Is May a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, May is definitely a good time to visit the Algarve for the first month of the year where you are likely to be able to enjoy the beautiful beaches in comfort (though the temperature of the sea may still be a little bit too cold for a long dip.) With the temperatures steadily climbing as we firmly enter spring, it is just warm enough to appreciate the beauty of the coast. However, if it is still a bit too chilly for you at this point, the temperatures are still low enough to make your city and countryside exploration comfortable yet still highly pleasant. Be sure to pack your suncream for the sunnier days, and be prepared for plans to change if you experience one of the region’s scattered May showers.
In May, we begin to move into peak season for travel, which means both prices and crowds are likely to start steadily increasing from now. Also, many institutions in the USA are likely to enjoy their spring breaks around now, which may impact the business of this destination. However, you may find it worth this increase in order to travel with a much higher chance of beautiful weather in Algarve.
Algarve in June
Algarve weather June
Summer is on its way! Algarve in June is a beautiful time to travel, with the days getting longer, more sunshine throughout the day, and still not quite in the peak season of July and August. The amount of rain expected in this month is about the same as in May – unlikely but not impossible, with anywhere between three and eight days of rain expected. THat means, whilst it is likely you will experience good weather during your trip in June, you should also bring what you need to prepare for scattered showers. However, it still isn’t cold, so if you don’t mind getting a little bit wet at times, this shouldn’t impact your vacation.
Temperature in Algarve in June
June is the first month where it starts to get hot, which makes it a very popular time to travel to the Algarve. Temperatures can climb to a high of 28 degrees Celsius (82F), and drop to a low of 20 degrees Celsius (68F). This means you can expect to be able to wear light clothing throughout the day, and need no more than a long-sleeved shirt or thin jumper in the cooler evenings.
Algarve water temperature June
In June, it is possible to start thinking about enjoying the glistening waters of the region. Previously, it was likely too cold to think about dipping in for too long, but in June, the average temperature of the sea hovers around the 21 degree Celsius (70F) mark. Although this is still considered fairly chilly for a sea swim, it is possible to get in to swim for short periods of time. We recommend doing so when the sun is shining, so that once you get out, you can quickly warm up.
Is June a good time to visit Algarve?
We begin to move towards peak season in June, with spring slowly melting into summer. Though June offers beautiful weather, the sea temperature isn’t quite where we would want it to be for regular swimming and beach visits just yet, so if you travel in June, it is best for a combination of beachgoing and city exploration. Though of course, as we get closer to summer, the days will get warmer and sunnier, and beach visits are likely highly possible towards the end of the month. If it is beach visits you are dreaming of, but you don’t want the crowds and prices of the true peak season of July and August, then late June is the ideal time to travel. Many do travel to the Algarve at this time, but typically, as schools are still in session in many places across Europe and the USA, the crowds are not what they will be in the next few months.
Algarve in July
Algarve weather July
Summer is well and truly here in the Algarve by July. You can expect beautiful hot weather, with balmy and comfortable evenings and nights where you can stroll around in a t-shirt and shorts. The days are very long with plenty of hours of sunshine, and the chance of rain is at a minimum, so no need to worry about umbrellas or waterproofs. Instead, make sure you pack plenty of sunblock and moisturizer to make sure your skin is rehydrated after a day in the sun. In July, you can expect the best weather for beach visits.
Algarve temperature July
July is when it starts to get truly toastie in the Algarve. You can experience a daytime temperature high of up to 33 degrees Celsius (91F) with nighttime lows of around 20 degrees Celsius (68F). This means you need plenty of cool clothing during the day, as well as access to suncream, and in the nighttime, you may be perfectly comfortable in a t-shirt. If not, a long-sleeved shirt will certainly do.
Algarve water temperature July
July is fully in summer, and offers the first month where the water is warm enough for regular and consistent swimming, without getting too cold. The average temperature of the sea in this month hovers around 21 degrees Celsius (71F), with plenty of sunshine to help keep you warm once you get out to dry off, if you do find the temperature a little bit too chilly still.
Is July a good time to visit Algarve?
Although the temperatures in July are utterly beautiful, and at the level where many would choose to travel to this region to enjoy, peak season begins in July. THat means many schools are broken up, and families are much more likely to be visiting Algarve at this time, which could drive up prices and mean the beaches are a little busier. However, this is not to say the region is too busy. If you don’t mind some tourist crowds, then July is the perfect time to truly appreciate summer in Algarve, with beautiful weather, beaches at their prime, and lovely, balmy nights where you can dine al fresco. UK schools typically don’t break up until the latter half of July, so if you would like to travel in this month to enjoy the beautiful weather, we would recommend traveling in the first half.
July is also a popular month for events in the month as tourism increases, such as the Market of Cultures by Candlelight, in which a market offering local produce is lit up by 12,000 candles, which takes place in Lagoa, as well as the Alameda Beer Festival in Faro, and the Festa da Ria Formosa which celebrates seafood.
Algarve in August
Algarve Portugal weather August
The heat continues into the second peak month of summer, with plenty of sunshine, extra long days with sunlight from early morning until late evening, and balmy nights and evenings. There’s a good chance that August will be humid, and there may be one or two scattered showers throughout the month, but it is still very hot. For a true beach holiday in a Mediterraneandestination, August is a fantastic time to go, as the ocean will be a very comfortable temperature and the beach season will be in full swing. Make sure you focus on keeping your skin safe from the strong sunlight, and you keep yourself hydrated with plenty of water to hand.
Algarve temperature August
You can expect to find more peak temperatures in August, as we are in the height of summer in Algarve. It is very similar to the temperature in July, hovering over an average high of around 30 degrees Celsius (86F), and average lows of around 24 degrees Celsius (75F) in the nighttime. In this month, temperatures can rapidly climb, and on some occasions can reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius (104F), so pay extra attention to keeping yourself safe and healthy if you travel in this month.
Algarve sea temperature August
The sea temperature in August is ideal for long, lazy days on the beach dipping in and out of the glittering water. It hovers around 22 degrees Celsius (72F), which means it is beautifully warm. If you start to get chilly after a while, the powerful sunshine is sure to warm you up.
Is August a good time to visit Algarve?
For the best beach weather you could possibly find on the Mediterranean, August is a great time to visit Algarve. The beaches in this region are renowned for their beauty, so it is a great month to travel to take full advantage of the scenery. However, as mentioned, the temperatures can soar, so if you do want to travel in August, you need to be prepared for some fairly extreme heat if the region experiences a heatwave. Ensure you pack cool, light clothing, and everything you need to keep your skin healthy and your body hydrated. Furthermore, as August is in peak season and schools across Europe and the US have broken up for the summer, it is likely to get quite busy here. So keep this in mind if you plan to travel in the height of summer. Furthemore, you may find that you will get too hot if you want to spend a lot of time exploring, so keep in mind you will need to factor in plenty of breaks and rest from the sun.
Algarve September
Algarve weather September
The Algarve is still very hot in September. At the start of the month, as we just leave August, you can enjoy the benefit of weather reminiscent of the height of summer, which means hot days, long hours of sunshine, comfortable water temperatures, and warm nights. As you get further into the month and begin to approach October, the days do start to shorten, and the temperatures begin to drop. That being said, you shouldn’t expect to find it cold at any point in this month. Rather, it is simply starting to cool down from the soaring temperatures of the summer season.
Algarve water temperature September
It is still very comfortable and pleasant to swim in the ocean in September. As it is only just moving out of summer, there is still plenty of sunshine, which means the water is still thoroughly heated. The average temperature of the sea sits around 22 degrees Celsius (72F), which means you can enjoy long days of swimming, floating, and dipping your toes in.
Algarve temperature September
The temperature during the day in September remains very high, though it dips a fair amount from the peak temperature of July and August. You can expect the average high to hit around 26 degrees Celsius (78.8F), and the low to sink to around 19 degrees Celsius (66F). It will be hotter at the start of the month as the days are closer to the peak of summer, and cooler towards the latter half as you approach fall. This means the daytime is still perfectly hot, and the evenings are mild and balmy, though you may find it more comfortable to wear something long-sleeved for the cooler breezes.
Is September a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, September is definitely a good time to visit Algarve. You will get the benefit of high temperatures on the tail-end of summer, with the added bonus of lower crowds, as schools return and tourists head home. As it is directly after peak travel season, you may be able to get some fantastic deals on accommodation and flights, and you’ll get to travel at a time when you will still see the Algarve absolutely blooming with sunshine, and when the beaches are still perfectly hot, and the sea temperature high enough to swim as much as you like.It is still quite hot in September, so be sure to take good care of yourself.
Algarve in October
October weather in the Algarve
Temperatures continue to drop as we move through fall towards the winter season, though it is still not yet considered particularly cold. Instead, you will find shorter days, slightly less sunlight, and an increase of rain, which as a general rule, is expected to occur for around half the month. October is a great time to travel especially if you wish to explore the popular cities and countryside without the worry of overheating or sunburn. Just be sure to bring your waterproofs and umbrella for the moments the rain does make an appearance.
Algarve portugal temperature October
As mentioned, the temperatures start to fall off around October, as summer is but a distant memory at this point. However, by European standards, it is not cold. You can expect an average low of around 17 degrees Celsius (64F), and an average high of 22 degrees Celsius (72F). This means you won’t find yourself shivering, but you may need long-sleeved clothing or thin jumpers to keep the chillier edge to the air off your skin.
Water temperature Algarve october
Although everything is starting to cool down in Algarve as we come firmly into fall, the water is still warm enough for swimming, though you may get a little chilly after a while. The temperature of the sea tends to hover around 21 degrees Celsius (70F), particularly early in the month. The later into the month we go, the cooler the water gets, so keep that in mind if you plan to indulge in a bit of swimming.
Is October a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, in October, you won’t experience the soaring temperatures of the summer just passed, but it is still plenty warm enough to enjoy a good vacation in this region. The rain does pick up at this time of year, so it is best to visit in October when you are hoping for a vacation that combines both pleasant beach trips, and city wandering, where you can pop into a café if it does start to rain. In October, you can expect small crowds of tourists, as schools are still in session and the main peak season for travel has come to a close. This also means some great deals on flights and accommodation, and in October, the most popular city in Algarve, Faro, celebrates its biggest festival complete with carnival rides, music, and fairs, which is well worth a visit. However, around Halloween, schools break up for a while which may mean an increase in traveler numbers around this time.
Algarve in November
November weather in Algarve
While there is still plenty of sunshine in this region of Portugal, the days are quite short, averaging around six hours of good sunlight. The likelihood of rain is quite high, so be sure to pack all you need to keep yourself dry, including waterproof clothing and umbrellas. Despite this, Algarve isn’t necessarily cold yet, though you may find it to be quite chilly, certainly compared to the summer months.
Temperatures in the Algarve in November
November does start to offer some fairly chilly temperatures in the Algarve. In the middle of the main city, Faro, the high averages around 19 degrees Celsius (66F), and at nighttime, it can even drop as low as 10 degrees Celsius (50F). That means if you’re traveling at this time, you should expect to keep a jumper or coat handy. Similarly, the temperature of the ocean lowers significantly at this point, and is likely too cold for swimming.
Is November a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, November is still a good time to visit if you want to explore the area without any expectations of lounging on a beach – it will be a little bit too cold for that, both in air temperature and sea temperature. Instead, this is the prime time to explore the stunning gem of a city, Faro, which is packed full of sights and cultural treasures, as well as enjoy activities such as biking around the countryside. It may be a little busy at the start of the month as schools are broken up around halloween time in many places, but the further into the month you go, the quieter it will be – this also means fantastic deals on flights and accommodation, so be sure to snap them up! In November, there are also plenty of events in Algarve, including some more unusual ones such as the Sweet Potato Festival in Aljezur.
Algarve in December
Weather in December in Algarve
Unfortunately, December is often the rainiest month of the year, with heavy showers expected for much of the month. As we are deep into winter at this point, the sunshine is at a minimum, and temperatures are very cool. However, similarly to the other winter months, this offers a very comfortable experience if your main plan is to explore the cities of the region, as it is unlikely you will be made uncomfortable by the heat. Just ensure you bring what you need to keep yourself from getting wet.
Algarve temperature December
Despite the rain and the lack of sunshine, the temperature still does not get overly cold. You can expect it to reach a low of around 9 degrees Celsius (48F), and a daytime high of 18 degrees Celsius (64F) (though the typical temperature tends to hover around 14 degrees Celsius (57F). This is chilly, but definitely not cold, and as long as you have a coat or thick jumper handy, you should be plenty comfortable on vacation here at this time of year.
Is December a good time to visit Algarve?
Yes, the Algarve is great for travel in December if you don’t mind the cooler temperatures. Although it is the festive season, a visit here in the holidays is still slightly warmer than other destinations in Europe, which means you won’t need to expect any frost-bitten fingers as you try and open your presents. As many people will be celebrating the festive season, and both work and schools often go on break, you can expect the crowds to increase towards the latter half of the month, and for prices to go up. But if you book early you may be able to get a great deal.
So, in summary, for the perfect balance of decent weather, and reasonable prices combined with less crowds, we think the best time to visit Algarve, Portugal, is in spring and fall. For high temperatures and the best beach season possible, July and August are the times to go, though you should expect more crowds and higher prices. If you are hoping to explore the cities and countryside of Algarve with low, comfortable temperatures, and you don’t mind a bit of rain, then winter is the time to travel here.
We hope you have identified the best time to travel to Algarve, Portugal, to ensure you have the vacation you’re dreaming of. If you have decided when to visit Algarve, the next step is to sort out your accommodation. We offer an incredible selection of villas in Algarve, complete with incredible views, stunning pools, the utmost of privacy and luxury interiors, to ensure your vacation is complete and memorable. Explore our full range by clicking the button below. Enjoy your vacation!
