May is one of the best months to visit Lisbon, and you should go if you get the chance.

The city is alive with the energy of late spring, the weather is glorious, and Lisbon's outdoor culture has fully awakened.

The weather in May is among Lisbon's finest, with bright sunny days that have shaken off the unpredictable rains of mid-spring, but not yet scorched by the summer heat. This is the perfect time for sightseeing, exploring and activities, and towards the end of the month you may even be considering trips to the beaches.

Visiting Lisbon in May is fantastic as the city is geared up for summer but not yet overwhelmed by the crowds of tourists arriving by cruise ships or for holidays.

As May is not quite yet the peak season, flights and accommodation will not be fully sold out or pushed to exorbitantly high prices. There may not be bargains, but it is an excellent month for last-minute holidays and city breaks.

This article will explain why you should visit Lisbon in May and help you get the most from your trip.

Lisbon’s outdoor café culture starts in earnest during May – this is the Miradouro da Graça viewpoint

Lisbon is blessed with some of its best weather in May, and boasts some the finest weather of mainland Europe. May is the transition from the unpredictable rains of mid-spring to the hot summer months.

Official statistics for Lisbon in May state a daytime high of 22.1°C (72°F) and a nighttime minimum of 14°C (57°F). There are nine days with some rain, and an average of 9.6 hours of sunshine per day, with a UV index of 8.

Monthly averages mask possible variabilities, but the key point is that there is an average of almost ten hours of sunshine every day, with the UV index pushing up to a strong 8. There is a chance of the occasional grey or wet spell, blown in by the strong Atlantic winds, but these will pass as quickly as they arrive.

Every day in May gradually becomes warmer as the city approaches summer. At the end of May, the weather will be warm enough to head to the wonderful beaches of Cascais or Costa da Caparica.

The sun will be gloriously shining, but it won’t be as intensely hot as in the peak summer months. In the evenings, it cools down, and on sunny days, there will be a pleasantly strong evening breeze that refreshes the city.

Simply put, May offers some of the best of Lisbon weather.

May is an outstanding month to discover Lisbon and its surrounding region. Some of the highlights which you should not miss include:

• Exploring the ancient labyrinthine streets of Alfama, which wind their way up steep hillsides to the imposing São Jorge Castle with its panoramic city views
• Browse the eclectic stalls of the Feira da Ladra flea market, where antiques, vintage treasures and local crafts create a vibrant atmosphere (Tuesdays and Saturdays)
• Discovering the historic riverside district of Torre de Belem and the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery, both testament to Portugal's Age of Discoveries
• Escaping to the golden beaches of Cascais on warm sunny days, where Belle Époque elegance meets Atlantic coastline charm
• Socialising with locals and fellow travellers in the buzzing bars of Bairro Alto, where the famous nightlife spills onto cobbled streets (Lisbon nightlife guide)
• Taking a day trip to magical Sintra with its fairy-tale palaces and romantic villas, including the whimsical multicoloured Pena Palace set high in wooded hills
• Riding the powerful Atlantic swells at Costa da Caparica, Portugal's premier surfing destination with miles of pristine coastline
• Savouring Portugal's distinctive cuisine in traditional tascas and modern restaurants, from fresh seafood to hearty regional specialities (Lisbon food guide)
• Discovering the vibrant street art and murals that transform the walls of the Graça district into an open-air gallery
• Marvelling at sweeping views of the city and iconic 25 de Abril suspension bridge from the towering Cristo Rei statue across the river
• Watching spectacular sunsets unfold during a romantic boat cruise along the Tejo Estuary, as the city's hills glow in golden light

A sunset cruise passing the Padrão dos Descobrimentos in Belem

Lisbon in May is fantastic, and it is one of the best months to visit the city.

The improving weather gives a boost of energy to the city – people start visiting the beaches, outdoor dining venues open, and Lisbon's outdoor culture begins. The city itself also looks its best, with parks lush and green, flowers in full bloom, and the distinctive purple jacaranda trees flowering.

Lisbon fully opens up to tourism after Easter, though in reality, it never truly shuts down. May represents a slight lull in tourist numbers between Easter and the start of the peak season, which begins with the Popular Saints festivities (first two weeks of June) and the arrival of the first cruise ships.

This means the city will be pleasantly busy, with enough people to create a buzzing atmosphere, but not so busy that you're endlessly standing in queues or jostling with cruise ship passengers to explore Alfama.

In May the nightlife of Lisbon picks up considerably. Every night, the bars and clubs of the Bairro Alto neighbourhood and Pink Street are packed with tourists and locals having a good time. At the weekends, the socialising spills onto the streets.

The purple jacaranda trees of Rossio plaza

May is a fantastic time to visit Lisbon, but it's important to book your accommodation early to secure the best prices. While May is not quite the peak season, demand for hotels and rentals can still be high as the city gears up for summer.

To find the perfect place to stay, use the map below to see the location of hotels and rental rooms in Lisbon. Adjust the dates to fit your trip, and the map will display current availability and prices:

Booking.com

The bright warm weather of May is ideal for sightseeing. This could be simply wandering the city and discovering the many varied districts or adventuring further afield via day trips. There are many fantastic excursions from Lisbon which include:

Sintra – Wondrous palaces, ruined castles and opulent villas all set within the wooded hills of the Serra de Sintra. This UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping into a fairy tale – Sintra guide
Cascais – The most elegant beach resort near Lisbon, combining beautiful sandy beaches with grand Belle Époque architecture and a sophisticated resort atmosphere – Cascais guide
Setúbal – An authentic fishing port where traditional Portuguese life continues unchanged, renowned for exceptional seafood restaurants and a genuine working harbour atmosphere – Setúbal guide
Évora – A captivating city in the heart of the Alentejo region, where Roman ruins, medieval streets and Renaissance palaces tell the story of Portugal's layered history – Évora guide
Óbidos – A perfectly preserved medieval walled town where narrow cobbled streets wind between whitewashed houses and ancient ramparts – Óbidos guide
Sesimbra – A charming fishing village turned beach resort, dramatically positioned between golden sands and the rolling hills of the Serra da Arrábida Natural Park – Sesimbra guide
Costa da Caparica – Portugal's premier surfing destination, offering miles of Atlantic beaches and a lively modern resort atmosphere popular with both locals and visitors

Óbidos is a tradition Portuguese walled city

May's warmer weather and calmer seas make this the ideal month for outdoor adventures along Lisbon's dramatic coastline.
Coasteering at Sesimbra – Experience Portugal's rugged coast through this exhilarating activity that combines cliff scrambling, sea swimming, and jumps from heights up to 8 metres into crystal-clear Atlantic waters - Coasteering by GetYourGuide

Kayaking the Sesimbra Coast – Rent a kayak and paddle along one of Portugal's most beautiful stretches of coastline to reach the secluded Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, or onwards to the Boca do Tamboril sea cave. Kayak tour from Lisbon

Surfing at Costa da Caparica – May's consistent swells and warmer weather create perfect conditions for surfing at Portugal's most famous surf destination. The expansive beaches offer gentle beginner breaks alongside more challenging waves, while numerous surf schools provide expert instruction and equipment rental.

Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo beach

Climbing down the cliffs for the first jump into the freezing sea

This six-day itinerary takes full advantage of May's excellent weather, balancing Lisbon's essential sights with coastal escapes and regional excursions. The warmer, more reliable conditions make this the perfect month for outdoor exploration and day trips beyond the city.

Day 1: Baixa, Alfama, and Graça
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, then explore the vibrant street art that transforms Graça's walls into an open-air gallery.

Day 2: Sintra Day Trip
Sintra deserves a full day and May's reliable weather makes this the perfect time to explore Portugal's most magical town. Begin at the extraordinary Pena Palace, where whimsical architecture and vibrant colours create a fairy-tale setting against the wooded 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.

Day 3: Belém, Alcântara, and Príncipe Real
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, home to the iconic Torre de Belém, 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.

Continue 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. End your day in the affluent Príncipe Real district, renowned for its vibrant food scene and upmarket shopping, perfect for an evening stroll through its elegant gardens.

Day 4: Cascais or Beach Day
May's warm weather makes this the perfect time to escape to the coast, though be warned that Atlantic waters remain refreshingly chilly even in late spring. You have several excellent coastal options depending on your preferences.

For sophisticated seaside charm, take the scenic train journey to Cascais, the elegant former royal retreat that seamlessly blends Belle Époque grandeur with beautiful sandy beaches. Stroll along the tree-lined avenues, browse the boutiques, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many excellent restaurants overlooking the Atlantic. The town's sheltered beaches offer golden sands and calmer waters, perfect for sunbathing even if swimming requires some courage.

Alternatively, head to Carcavelos Beach, easily accessible by train and popular with both locals and visitors. This expansive stretch of sand offers excellent facilities, beach bars, and reliable waves for bodyboarding, making it ideal for a relaxed beach day close to the city.

For surfing enthusiasts, Costa da Caparica provides Portugal's premier surf destination with miles of Atlantic coastline and consistent swells. The modern resort town offers surf schools, board rentals, and a lively beach culture, though the powerful waves and cooler waters are better suited to those comfortable in the ocean.

Day 5: Estrela, Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodré, and Parque das Nações
Day 5 starts in the tranquil Estrela neighbourhood, where authentic Lisbon life unfolds around the imposing Estrela Basilica. From here, explore the bohemian Bairro Alto quarter, riding the charming Elevador da Bica funicular and visiting the surprisingly ornate Igreja de São Roque, whose modest exterior conceals breathtaking baroque interiors.

Head down to Cais do Sodré for lunch at the bustling TimeOut Market, where Lisbon's finest food vendors gather under one roof. This converted market hall offers everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to modern fusion cuisine.

Spend your afternoon experiencing 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 finale to your urban exploration.

Day 6: Évora or Setúbal Day Trip
Your final day offers two distinct Portuguese experiences beyond Lisbon. Évora, the jewel of the Alentejo region, captivates visitors with its remarkably preserved Roman temple, haunting bone chapel, and medieval streets that earned UNESCO World Heritage status. This ancient city tells the story of Portugal's layered history through Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and Renaissance palaces, all surrounded by rolling countryside dotted with cork oaks.

Alternatively, Setúbal offers an authentic glimpse into traditional maritime life. This working fishing port 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. The nearby Arrábida Natural Park provides stunning coastal scenery and pristine beaches for those seeking a final taste of Portugal's natural beauty.

When packing for Lisbon in May, 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 maybe needed for the occasional showers. For bottoms, comfortable jeans or trousers are suitable, and towards the end of May, you might also consider shorts or a skirt.

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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