Does it Snow in Portugal? Winter Weather in Portugal Explained

Last Updated on December 5, 2023

Landscapes and altitude vary all throughout Portugal. As a result, temperatures vary, too! But does it snow in Portugal? Lets find out.

While lots of tourists visit Portugal during the summer for the warm weather, traveling Portugal in winter comes with special benefits. The weather is generally mild, there are fewer crowds, and prices for flights, accommodations, tours, and more tend to be a little lower. 

I’ve traveled to Portugal twice during winter, and from personal experience I can say …I’ve never seen snow in Portugal! In fact, when I’ve visited during the winter months, the weather has been mild and sunny. That said, I’ve only traveled to regions at lower altitudes. So, let’s set the record straight.

barriga beach in the algarve during winter in portugal
Barriga Beach during winter in Portugal.

Does it Snow in Portugal?

Yes, it snows in the mountainous region of Portugal, during the winter. The most common region where snow falls in Portugal is the Serra da Estrela mountains. This is the highest mountain range in Portugal, with it’s highest point reaching 1,993 meters (6,538 feet).

At this altitude, snow is likely from late fall to early spring. In fact, there’s enough snow that you can ski in the Serra da Estrela mountains during winter!

It may also snow in a few other high altitude regions, particularly in the north of Portugal. When it does snow in regions outside of the Serra da Estrela mountain, it’s sporadic snowfall that doesn’t tend to stay long. After a cold burst, the snow will usually melt.

Unfortunately, global warming is changing climates all over the world, including Portugal. With a warming planet, Portugal is seeing less snow over time. Given this, it’s not recommended to travel to Portugal with the goal of seeing snow. For that, I would travel to a region of the world where the winter temperatures are colder and snow is more guaranteed.

What is winter in Portugal like? 

During winter, most of Portugal continues to have sunny days, and the temperatures remain mild. There may be a few rainy days, but for the most part, the skies are blue. The average temperature range during winter in Portugal is between 6°C (42°F) and 15°C (60°F). These temperatures vary slightly, depending on where you are in the country. If you go into Portugal’s mountains during winter, it will be significantly colder. 

rocky cliffs and sandy beach, right by the ocean, at Praia da Marinha in Algarve, portugal
Praia da Marinha in Algarve, Portugal

Where to Find Snow in Portugal 

The only place you’ll find snow in Portugal is at Serra da Estrela. It is the highest mountain range in Portugal, with its highest point at 1,993 meters (6,539 feet) above sea level.

Snow falls in the mountain range during Portugal’s winter months, from November to March. The most snow will be found at the highest point, which is known as “Torre” (tower, in English). The summit of the region is accessible by a paved road, and it’s up there that you’ll find a ski resort. 

Skiing in Portugal

Portugal has snow in some regions during winter. Let’s dive into whether or not it’s possible to ski! 

Can you go skiing in Portugal?

Yes, you can go downhill skiing in Portugal. There is a ski resort in the Serra da Estrela mountain range, about 300 kilometers (190 miles) east of Lisbon and close to the Spanish border. Ski Serra da Estrela is a small resort that has 4 ski lifts and 130 meters (426 feet) of vertical descent. 

The skiing in this mountain region of Portugal isn’t as good as the skiing in other parts of Europe. That said, if you’re a beginner, or just looking to do a day or 2 of relaxed runs while traveling Portugal, it’s worth a stop. 

It’s possible to rent all snowboard and ski equipment at the resort. If you drive up to the resort, be careful in the winter conditions as roads can be slippery. 

Does it snow in Portugal? People skiing in Portugal at a ski resort at Serra da Estrela shows that it does
Sking in the mountain Serra da Estrela, Portugal

Escaping the Snow in Portugal

If the snow in Portugal doesn’t interest you, don’t overlook visiting Portugal in winter. While the mountains have snow from late fall to early spring, the weather in most of Portugal stays mild throughout winter, and most of the country has no snow at all. 

Popular Portuguese destinations like Lisbon, Porto, Sintra, and the Algarve still see sunny skies and above zero degree weather. And since winter is the off-season in Portugal for tourism, there are far less crowds, and rates for accommodations, tours, transport, and flights are usually lower.  

Tips for Visiting Portugal in the Winter

Planning to visit Portugal during the winter months? Here are some tips to keep in mind. 

1. Research weather conditions for each region. 

While the weather conditions are mild throughout most of Portugal during winter, it’s important to remember that differing altitude across the country can impact temperatures. 

For example, in the southern coastal region of Portugal, the Algarve, temperatures tend to be a bit warmer than the more northern regions, like Porto. 

If you’re traveling to Portugal in winter, check what the conditions are in each place you’ll be visiting ahead of your trip. This way, you’re prepared for any changes in weather as you travel around.

2. Pack layers for winter in Portugal.

Temperatures in Portugal during winter range from 6 degrees celsius (42 degrees fahrenheit) and 15°C (60°F), depending on where you are and how sunny that day is. 

Given this, you’ll want to pack appropriately. For mild weather like this, layers are your best friend. Bring everything from t-shirts, to long sleeve shirts and sweaters, as well as a jacket. 

This way, you’re able to adjust your layers throughout your day according to how you feel. You’ll also find that the temperature drops once the sun goes down, so have warmer clothes for the evenings. 

aerial view of a yellow beach surrounded by cliffs on the ocean, which is Tonel beach in Algarve Portugal
Surfers at Tonel Beach in Algarve, Portugal

3. Expect some closures in the Algarve region.

Since winter is off-season for tourism in Portugal, some regions outside of Portugal’s main cities become quiet during this time. 

For example, Lagos and other towns throughout the Algarve rely heavily on tourism during the peak summer months. When tourism quiets down, some restaurants, businesses, and tour operators move to reduced hours or close. 

Don’t let this hold you back! Because there are less tourists in Portugal during the winter, the reduced business isn’t too noticeable. You’ll still be able to book key experiences, like Benagil Cave Tours

4. Enjoy indoor experiences in Portugal.

It’s good to be prepared for rainy days when you visit Portugal in winter. Luckily, there’s plenty of great indoor activities to do, particularly in Portugal’s cities. 

Research churches, museums, and historical sites in the region you’re visiting. That way, you can head there if the weather isn’t ideal for spending time outdoors. 

5. Don’t expect to swim, but consider surfing!

Portugal in winter becomes a surfing destination at beaches all along its western and southern coast. Praia do Norte in Nazare, Portugal is one of the most famous surfing beaches in the world because it has some of the largest waves in the world. 

During Portuguese winter you can take lessons at many of the best Algarve beaches. Tonel Beach is a particular favourite for surf lessons. 

There are a couple surfing schools that operate out of Sagres, a small town right by Tonel Beach. They provide the equipment as well as an instructor to help you get the basics of surfing down. 

view of Porto and the douro river from a bridge, showing boats on the river and blue skies
Porto and the Douro River

Does it Snow in Portugal? Final Thoughts

While yes, there is snow in Portugal, it isn’t common. Snow only appears in the highest altitude region of the country. 

This is a great perk for anyone hoping to see snow and get in some skiing while in Portugal during the winter months. But for the most part, the weather is mild throughout the country during winter. 

Portugal is definitely not a destination for anyone looking to experience snow. If that’s what you’re after, consider Ontario in winter!

Ready to plan your visit to Portugal in winter? Here’s more from Pina Travels: