April is a great month to visit Lisbon, despite the Portuguese saying "Abril, águas mil" (April brings a thousand waters) whenever rain clouds gather. While the weather can be unpredictable, with brief but intense Atlantic showers sweeping across the city, Lisbon provides abundant indoor attractions and covered activities for those inevitable wet spells.

The secret to a successful April visit lies in maintaining flexibility. Rather than rigid daily schedules, plan a range of options that adapt to the weather forecast. On sunny days, you might find yourself exploring the magical palaces of Sintra or strolling along Cascais' elegant coastal promenades. When rain arrives, you can easily shift between museums, traditional restaurants, and covered markets without feeling your holiday has been ruined.

The main advantage of visiting Lisbon in April is that it is considered the low season. This means popular attractions remain uncrowded, reservations are not needed for tours or restaurants, and there can be bargains with flights and accommodation. The Easter weekend is the notable exception, when visitor numbers surge to near-peak levels

This guide will help you make the most of an April visit to Lisbon, whatever the weather brings.

The Arco da rua Augusta - Lisbon will have significantly less tourists in April than in the peak Summer months

Before visiting Lisbon in April, you should be fully aware of the weather, and not be seduced by glossy summertime images, especially if visiting from outside of Europe.

Official statistics state a daytime high of 19.8°C (67°F), a nighttime minimum of 12°C (53°F), with 13 days that have some rain and 8.3 hours of sunshine per day.

These values simply mask the possible variability that Lisbon experiences in April. It could be delightfully sunny and warm, or overcast and wet. Fortunately, the spells of weather change very rapidly in April, and no block of rain ever lasts more than two days.

Insight: Typically, Lisbon has the best weather of any major European city in April. This makes the city a great choice for a city break at this time of year.

April is a wonderful time to visit Lisbon, offering plenty of activities that work well in both sunshine and showers. Here are some highlights to enjoy:
Alfama: Lose yourself in Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, with its winding alleys, traditional houses, and excellent viewpoints over the city.
Tram 28: Take a ride on the historic yellow tram as it climbs through Lisbon's cobbled streets and atmospheric old quarters.
Sintra day trip: Experience the extraordinary palaces and villas, including the colourful Palacio de Pena - ideal when April delivers fine weather.
Belém district: Explore this appealing riverside area, home to the magnificent Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and excellent maritime museums.
Lisbon nightlife: Enjoy cocktails in stylish bars on Avenida da Liberdade, or head to Pink Street for late-night entertainment.
Museums: Visit some of Lisbon's outstanding cultural attractions, including the tile museum, coach museum, and Gulbenkian art gallery.
Oceanarium: See diverse marine life in this impressive aquarium - perfect for April's unpredictable weather days.
TimeOut Market: Join other visitors at this bustling food market, sampling dishes from various vendors under one roof.
Cascais: Walk along the coastal promenade on sunny days, enjoying the seaside atmosphere just outside Lisbon (Cascais guide).
Graça district: Discover authentic local life in this neighbourhood, known for its vibrant street art and traditional character.

April's frequent showers needn't disrupt your plans. Lisbon's excellent indoor attractions mean wet days often become the most rewarding part of any visit.

The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian deserves several hours, with its remarkable collection spanning centuries of art from ancient Egypt to Impressionist masterpieces. Equally compelling is the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, where Portugal's distinctive tile-making tradition unfolds through beautiful displays that tell the story of this quintessentially Portuguese art form. The Museu dos Coches provides a different perspective on royal history through its collection of elaborate ceremonial carriages.

Rainy weather offers the perfect opportunity to ride Tram 28 without the usual crowds, watching the city's neighbourhoods drift past from dry comfort. Consider booking a pastel de nata workshop to learn the techniques behind Portugal's beloved custard tarts, or spend time exploring the diverse food stalls at the Time Out Market.

For more active pursuits, the Pavilhão do Conhecimento science centre keeps families engaged for hours, while the Quake museum delivers a surprisingly gripping recreation of Lisbon's devastating 1755 earthquake. Those seeking culture and creativity will find plenty to explore among LxFactory's independent shops, galleries and cafés, all conveniently housed under one converted industrial roof.

April represents excellent value for visiting Lisbon, but securing accommodation early ensures you get the best rates and locations.

Use the interactive map below to explore available accommodation across Lisbon's different neighbourhoods. Simply adjust the dates to match your travel plans, and the map will show current availability and pricing for your stay:

Booking.com

Portugal observes a national holiday on 25th April, commemorating the 1974 revolution that brought down the authoritarian Estado Novo regime. This peaceful uprising became known as the Carnation Revolution after soldiers placed carnation flowers in their rifle barrels, demonstrating their commitment to non-violence.

The anniversary brings festivities to Lisbon's streets. A military parade proceeds along Avenida da Liberdade on the day itself, while the evening before features a commemorative concert in Praça do Comércio. The atmosphere throughout the city reflects both celebration and remembrance of this pivotal moment in Portuguese modern history.

Insight: The Lisbon suspension bridge, originally named after dictator Salazar, was renamed Ponte 25 de Abril following the revolution.

The “Peace Guard” mural in the Graça neighbourhood, commemorating the events of the revolution.

This six-day itinerary has been designed with April's changeable weather in mind, balancing outdoor exploration with indoor cultural attractions. The schedule covers Lisbon's essential historical sites alongside local experiences and modern districts. Plan your Sintra day trip for the sunniest weather forecast.

Day 1: Alfama and Baixa
Start your Lisbon adventure in Baixa, the grand downtown district rebuilt after the devastating 1755 earthquake. The magnificent Praça do Comércio opens like a royal gateway to the city, while nearby Rossio Square displays the elegant Pombaline architecture that characterises this area. Walk along the lively pedestrian street of Rua Augusta, take the ornate Elevador de Santa Justa for panoramic views, then sample ginja, the traditional cherry liqueur, at the historic A Ginjinha bar.

Spend your afternoon exploring Alfama, Lisbon's oldest neighbourhood, where narrow cobbled streets climb steeply from the Tejo towards the castle. Within this atmospheric maze, discover the imposing São Jorge Castle with its sweeping city views, visit the fortress-like Lisbon Cathedral, and pause at the panoramic Miradouro da Graça viewpoint. Complete your day aboard the charming Tram 28 as it rattles through these ancient quarters.

Day 2: Belém and Alcântara
The waterfront district of Belém stretches along the western banks of the Tejo, where Portugal's Age of Discoveries began in the 15th century. Start at the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, whose elaborate Manueline stonework was funded by the wealth of the spice trade. From here, walk to the iconic Belém Tower, the fortress that once guarded the estuary, then visit the towering Padrão dos Descobrimentos monument honouring Portugal's great explorers. Don't miss the original pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém, where these beloved custard tarts have been made using the same secret recipe since 1837.

For the afternoon, head to Alcântara's innovative LX Factory, where converted industrial buildings now house independent boutiques, art galleries, and trendy cafés. This vibrant cultural hub represents Lisbon's creative renaissance and contemporary spirit. If weather permits, consider joining an evening sunset boat tour to see the city from the water as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

Day 3: Sintra day trip
Sintra ranks as the finest day trip from Lisbon, so choose your sunniest day for this excursion. Begin at the extraordinary Pena Palace, where whimsical architecture and vibrant colours create a fairy-tale setting against the Sintra hills. The palace's opulent staterooms and terraces offer breathtaking views across the surrounding landscape.

After lunch, explore the enigmatic Quinta da Regaleira, where mysterious tunnels and enchanting gardens invite discovery at every turn. Time permitting, Sintra offers additional treasures: the atmospheric ruins of the Moorish castle with panoramic vistas, the historic Sintra National Palace with its distinctive twin chimneys, or the exotic Monserrate Palace with its Arabian-inspired architecture. There is so much to see in Sintra that you could easily spend two days here.

Day 4: Estrela, Príncipe Real and Bairro Alto,
Begin your day in the tranquil Estrela neighbourhood, where authentic Lisbon life unfolds around the imposing Estrela Basilica. This calm district offers a genuine taste of local culture away from the tourist crowds.

Continue to the affluent Príncipe Real district, renowned for its vibrant food scene and upmarket shopping. From here, head down to Cais do Sodré, where the bustling TimeOut Market brings together Lisbon's finest food vendors under one roof. This converted market hall offers everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to modern fusion cuisine, making it perfect for lunch regardless of the weather.

Spend your afternoon exploring Bairro Alto, the bohemian quarter famous for its evening transformation. During the day, ride the charming Elevador da Bica funicular and visit the surprisingly ornate Igreja de São Roque, whose modest exterior conceals breathtaking baroque interiors. As evening approaches, position yourself at the Miradouro de Santa Catarina viewpoint for spectacular sunset views.

Come nightfall, Bairro Alto reveals its legendary character as narrow streets fill with locals and visitors alike. The neighbourhood's vibrant nightlife spills from cosy bars onto cobbled streets, creating an infectious energy that thrives even during April's quieter season. This is also where you'll find authentic Fado venues featuring Portugal's traditional music.

The number 24 tram passing through Príncipe Real

Day 5: Cascais or Setúbal Day Trip
Your second excursion offers two distinct Portuguese experiences. Elegant Cascais provides sophisticated coastal charm, seamlessly blending Belle Époque grandeur with inviting sandy beaches. This former royal retreat maintains its refined character through tree-lined avenues, excellent seafood restaurants, and beautiful coastal walks that epitomise the Portuguese Riviera's enduring appeal.

Alternatively, Setúbal offers an authentic glimpse into traditional maritime life. This working fishing port south of Lisbon celebrates its seafaring heritage through exceptional restaurants serving the day's fresh catch, while its historic centre and bustling daily market pulse with genuine local character.

Day 6: South of the Tejo and Parque das Nações
Start your day by crossing the Tejo to explore the southern shore. Take the ferry from Cais de Sodré to Cacilhas, famous for its excellent yet inexpensive seafood restaurants. From here, visit the towering Cristo Rei statue for stunning views across the estuary, or if the sun is shining, head to the golden beaches of Costa da Caparica for a coastal stroll.

For the afternoon, experience Lisbon's futuristic side at Parque das Nações, where the legacy of the 1998 World Expo continues to demonstrate the city's ambitious vision. This striking waterfront district features sleek contemporary architecture that contrasts dramatically with Lisbon's historic quarters. The spectacular Lisbon Oceanarium, one of Europe's most impressive aquariums, provides the perfect indoor activity regardless of April weather. Conclude your Lisbon journey at the prestigious Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, whose impressive collection spanning ancient treasures to modern masterpieces provides a fitting cultural finale to your Portuguese adventure.

Easter (Páscoa)
Portugal is a religious country; however, Easter celebrations are much less pronounced than in many other Catholic countries. Both Good Friday and Easter Sunday are national holidays, but all restaurants, cafes and bars will remain open. Many tourist attractions will be closed, but for most visitors, it will just feel like a regular Friday or Sunday.

Peixe em Lisboa
Peixe em Lisboa is the annual fish festival held in the Parque Eduardo VII. The focal point is Portugal’s best chefs showcasing their finest fish and seafood dishes, but it also features many traditional stalls, places to eat, and serves as a fun place to hang out in the evenings.

April's transitional season presents excellent opportunities for securing budget-friendly flights and accommodation deals.

Flight booking requires both advance planning and flexibility. Securing flights at least three months ahead provides access to the best prices, while choosing Tuesday through Thursday departures can yield substantial savings.

April proves ideal for securing accommodation bargains, particularly in mid-range and luxury hotels. Properties often introduce last-minute promotions or special offers to maintain occupancy levels, with discounts frequently reaching 30-40% off standard rates. These deals demand patience and thorough comparison shopping across multiple booking platforms to identify the best opportunities.

Booking fully refundable rooms provides valuable flexibility, allowing travellers to take advantage of better deals that may emerge closer to their travel dates. This approach requires active monitoring but can result in significant savings for those willing to invest the time.

When packing for Lisbon in April, it's important to consider the city's mild but variable spring weather. To stay comfortable, focus on layering: pack lightweight, breathable items such as t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and a medium-weight sweater or cardigan. A waterproof or light raincoat is essential for the occasional showers. For bottoms, comfortable jeans or trousers are suitable, and towards the end of April.

Footwear should prioritize comfort and versatility, as Lisbon's cobbled streets and hills can be challenging to navigate. Comfortable walking shoes, preferably waterproof, are a must, and you might want to include a pair of more formal shoes for evening outings. Lisbon's nightlife and dining scenes are vibrant yet relaxed, so pack a smart-casual outfit for these occasions.

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