When to come?

Are you planning a stay in Portugal and wondering when to go to Porto? In the South of Europe and France, Porto is nevertheless in the North of Portugal, would we tend to forget that? Located at the mouth of the Douro River, the city and its coastline are exposed to humid winds from the Atlantic Ocean. It is surrounded by hills and mountains, in the Douro valley (where the vines of the famous Port wine are located), which retain the wind and precipitation, sometimes creating periods of intense rain, but of short duration! Porto's climate is nevertheless temperate Mediterranean, which makes it a pleasant city to visit all year round.

The best times to visit Porto

Spring and autumn

The off-seasons are without hesitation the best times to visit Porto. From the month of April, there is less precipitation and the climate is particularly mild and pleasant (although the risk of rain is never excluded in Porto). While in France and Northern Europe, we struggle to get rid of our coats, in Porto we can already walk around in short sleeves! With the days getting longer, strolling along the quays at the end of the day is really pleasant. Listen to street music concerts on the grassy esplanade the “Jardim do Morro”, sip a Porto on the terrace, in the historic center facing the river… The city and its many parks and gardens open up in spring and nature is particularly beautiful in this season.

In spring and until June, you will avoid the hordes of tourists (although the Spanish take advantage of their many holy festivals in May and the holidays that go with them to visit the city). You can take the opportunity to go on an oenological escapade in the vineyards, it is the period of pruning and the first work on the vines after winter. In June, Porto has several festivities such as the Feast of Saint John (June 24, Festivities of São João) and the National Day of Portugal (June 10). There will be people, but the atmosphere is great!

Summer in Porto

Summer is a perfect time to enjoy Porto's beaches, boat rides and happy, lively evenings. The party is in full swing and there is a palpable holiday atmosphere, with a characteristic hustle and bustle that will appeal to those who are not afraid of crowds! Be aware that we often see an increase in prices during this season... For accommodation, but also for meals, it is better to know this in order to calculate your budget correctly (consult our article on your first visit to Porto, for good tips for save during the summer in Porto). Temperature wise, it can be hot, very hot. Light clothing, hydration and good shoes (you don't visit Porto in flip-flops, even if it's tempting in summer) to cope with the city's elevation, without forgetting to go for a nap in parks like the Palácio de Cristal or the Porto City Park.

The beaches of Foz do Douro and Matosinhos

Winter in Porto

Don't be reluctant to visit Porto in winter. It is a season where the climate is certainly rainy (you have to water the vines, right?), yet there are many advantages to going there in the low season. Less popular than the rest of the year, winter allows tourists to benefit from lower prices, both in restaurants and hotels. Some attractions are not available, but you will always find something to occupy you between cultural places, shows, walks, cellar visits...

Porto is a pleasant city which knows how to satisfy its holidaymakers all year round and in all configurations: rain, cold, wind, nothing will spoil your visit (equip yourself accordingly), even if Porto in the sun remains the most beautiful postcard!

Porto in the rain? We still love it! The cold is no obstacle to discovery either

What to pack in your suitcase to visit Porto?

Porto has many shops, this might be an opportunity to do a little shopping! Don't overload your suitcase, you will find something to protect you from the rain on site at a lower cost. In winter, the temperatures are rather mild, pants, sweater and a jacket (waterproof!) will be sufficient. In summer, the heat will allow you to dress lightly, take a pair of sunglasses, a cap or treat yourself to a useful souvenir on site such as a hat or cap made of cork, the city's emblematic material! Think about sunscreen because the sun is strong, as well as mosquito repellent for evenings by the river or near the sea. A swimsuit won't be too much to enjoy the ocean and its beautiful beaches just minutes from downtown.

In all seasons, wear good, comfortable shoes that hold your feet well. Porto is a city on a human scale, which can be explored on foot, particularly the historic center. The city is in permanent decline! It goes up, it goes down... There are stairs and streets with cobblestones that become slippery in the rain. Forget flip-flops, heels, clogs, to protect your knees and ankles!

We recommend that you bring a backpack, you will find it easier to store food, belongings and souvenirs; you will have your hands free to take photos.