Best Time To Visit North Portugal
Portugal, being located on the Atlantic coast, experiences oceanic influence and enjoys a Mediterranean climate; it is quite damp, but sunny. Portugal's mild climate is the main reason for its immense popularity as a favored holiday destination. Furthermore, within Portugal, with its beautiful mountain ranges and natural scenic beauty, it is the northern region (North) that tops the tourists' lists.
However, the best time to visit north Portugal is entirely a personal preference; and depends on various factors. The primary factor is a person's vacation schedule. Another factor that it may depend on is off-season bargains (i.e. saving on the pocket). The Last factor, but not the least, which plays a role in this decision-making, is a person's weather tolerance or preference.
Following is a weather summary of north Portugal to help you decide on the best time for your visit there.
Everywhere in Portugal, including the northern part, the months between June and September, offer quite a warm climate. Wavering around 30 degrees centigrade, it is usually hot and sunny. The temperature of Upper Douro, in July and August, can rise as high as, a whopping 45 degrees centigrade. So, in case you wish to travel around that time, it is best recommended to carry your sunscreen along; or risk spoiling your vacation with sun burns and blisters.
It is from November up till March that Portugal experiences most of its showers. The areas near the coast, central and northwest regions in particular, happen to be mild. However, the chance of rain in the northern Portugal is present throughout the year.
There are several mountain ranges in northern as well as central Portugal. As is known, the higher the altitude, the lower the temperature is going to be. Chill, fog or even rain may surprise you here. Therefore, readiness in terms of range of clothing is highly recommended.
January and February may be accompanied with covering of inland mountain areas with snow; that too with a good amount it. This in turn makes possible the running of a small ski resort at Torre.
If you love flowers and the spring season, February should be a great season for you to visit Portugal. It is around this time that the region is in full "bloom", with its wide array of beautiful flowers; including the pretty almond blossoms, decorating the landscape.
If you prefer a little less crowd, plus a decent weather, early autumn is your best bet same time as traveling to paris. The temperature around this time is quite moderate i.e. it may still be warm but, it's not too hot. And what's even better is that the crowds of holidaying tourists somewhat dissipate around now.
If waters or beaches are your weakness, you may then decide on a visiting date between the months of June to mid of September. This is when the official swimming season is on at the coast. However, caution should be exercised, against the strong undertow of the Atlantic Ocean, when swimming in the sea.