The best time to travel to the Algarve
Discover the breathtaking coast of southern Portugal
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Our expert recommendation
The best time to visit the Algarve is in spring or fall, when pleasant temperatures and a wonderful climate are particularly inviting for hiking and exploring the region.
Raphaela Wedel
Travel expert for Portugal
Updated on 11/24/2025
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The climate in the Algarve can be divided into four seasons. Summer is particularly inviting from June to September with maximum temperatures of around 86° F and fantastic water temperatures of around 68° F for sunbathing and swimming. Spring and fall, on the other hand, are perfect for exploring the beautiful region on extensive hikes, a city trip or other rewarding outdoor activities. Even the winter months of December to February promise a fantastic relaxing vacation in the Algarve with temperatures of around 59° F. However, you should take a rain jacket with you in the Algarve at this time of year as a precaution.
Algarve in the high season
The high season in the Algarve runs from June to September and coincides with the summer vacations. This attracts not only Portuguese but also numerous international visitors to the picturesque coastal region, making it very busy. At the same time, temperatures of around 86° F, up to 12 hours of sunshine, virtually no rain and, last but not least, pleasant water temperatures make the Algarve the perfect destination for a relaxing summer and beach vacation during these months.
Algarve in the off-season
Spring and fall are considered the shoulder seasons in the Algarve and guarantee optimal climatic conditions for an unforgettable vacation. From March to May and in the months of September and October, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures of around 68° F, plenty of sunshine and only the occasional rain shower. This is therefore the best time to go hiking in the Algarve or to spend a unique relaxing vacation on Portugal's fantastic coast.
Algarve in the low season
From December to the end of February, the Algarve becomes noticeably quieter. Temperatures here also drop to a maximum of 61° F, there is more rainfall and the sun only warms the coastal region for around six hours a day. Nevertheless, the Algarve is still worth a relaxing vacation in winter. What's more, you can now enjoy the region's beautiful nature at particularly attractive prices.
Golf
The Algarve not only boasts a breathtaking coastal region, but also offers fantastic golf courses. However, if you want to play golf in the Algarve, you should plan a trip in spring or fall, when temperatures hover between 61 and 68° F and there is only occasional rainfall.
Hiking
The best time to go hiking in the Algarve is in spring or fall. Between March and May, as well as from September to the end of October, you can expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant temperatures between 61 and 77° F. These are ideal conditions for exploring the unique natural surroundings on long hikes or challenging treks.
Surfing
Midsummer from June to September is particularly suitable for a beach vacation. This is also the best time to travel if you want to surf in the Algarve. Water temperatures above 68° F, plenty of sunshine, glorious temperatures of up to 86° F and, last but not least, optimal wind conditions create the perfect atmosphere for surfing or wave riding.
Diving & Snorkeling
Would you like to explore the dream region of the Algarve while diving or snorkeling? Then a trip between June and September is particularly recommended, when the water temperatures slowly climb above 68° F and the underwater visibility gives you a fantastic insight into Portugal's underwater world. What's more, you can not only enjoy the region while swimming or relaxing on the beach, but also explore the surrounding area.
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