Last updated: January 18, 2025
Braga, Portugal, is characterized by a Csb climate as defined by the Köppen-Geiger classification, marking it as a Mediterranean climate with oceanic influences. The region experiences a significant temperature range, with winter minimums dipping to -5°C (24°F) in January and reaching summer highs of 38°C (101°F) in August. The yearly average temperature hovers around 15°C (59°F), creating a comfortable environment that supports diverse ecosystems and agriculture. This climate profile contributes to Braga's rich cultural heritage and makes it a captivating destination for visitors year-round.
Braga, Portugal, exhibits distinct seasonal temperature patterns throughout the year, with marked variations between winter and summer. January and February feature the coldest months, with minimum temperatures falling to -5°C (24°F) and -3°C (27°F), respectively, while average temperatures hover around 8°C (47°F) and 10°C (51°F). As spring approaches, March and April see a gradual warming trend, with temperatures rising to maximums of 26°C (79°F) in March and 28°C (82°F) in April. The warmth continues into the summer months, peaking in August with maximums reaching 38°C (101°F), while average daily temperatures stabilize around 20°C (69°F). As autumn arrives, temperatures begin a subtle decline, with October's averages at 16°C (61°F) and sharp drops back into the lower ranges by December, resulting in a full cycle of variability that characterizes Braga's climate.
Guimaraes and Ponte experience a temperature range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in August, as detailed in their respective climate links: monthly temperatures in Guimaraes and monthly temperatures in Ponte. In contrast, Braga has a slightly milder minimum temperature of -3°C (27°F) in January while also reaching a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in August, as shown in its climate link: monthly temperatures in Braga.
Braga, Portugal, experiences a diverse precipitation pattern throughout the year, with significant rainfall occurring primarily in the winter months. January kicks off the wet season with 118 mm (4.7 in) of rain over an average of 8 days, but February peaks with 174 mm (6.8 in), making it the month with the highest precipitation. March and April follow closely behind, contributing 173 mm (6.8 in) and 160 mm (6.3 in), respectively, as spring approaches. As temperatures begin to rise, May sees a notable drop in rainfall to 96 mm (3.8 in), indicating a transition towards drier conditions.
The summer months of June, July, and August are characterized by significantly lower precipitation, with July receiving a mere 25 mm (1.0 in) over just 4 days, and August similarly recording 26 mm (1.0 in) across 2 days. The onset of autumn reintroduces wetter conditions, evident in September and October with 46 mm (1.8 in) and 143 mm (5.6 in) of rainfall, respectively. November marks a return to heavier rains, peaking at 192 mm (7.5 in), and December concludes the year with 226 mm (8.9 in), reinforcing Braga's profile as a region with a pronounced wet season and relatively dry summers.
Braga, Portugal, showcases a clear seasonal trend in sunshine duration, with marked increases from winter to summer. In the beginning of the year, January brings a modest 154 hours of sunshine, gradually rising to 204 hours in February. As spring unfurls, hours of sunlight surge dramatically, reaching 282 hours in March and peaking at 343 hours in April. May continues this upward trajectory with 402 hours, signaling the approach of summer and the longer daylight hours that accompany it.
The summer months truly shine in Braga, with July representing the zenith of sunshine at 427 hours, followed closely by 396 hours in August. As autumn arrives, the days begin to shorten, and sunlight diminishes, particularly in November with only 203 hours. December sees further reduction, dropping to 174 hours, marking the transition back into the winter months. Overall, the progression from winter's subdued light to summer's abundance illustrates not only Braga's dynamic climate but also its potential for outdoor activities and tourism during the sunniest months.
The UV Index in Braga, Portugal, reveals significant seasonal variations in sun exposure risk, closely correlated with changes in temperature and sunshine duration. January begins with a low UV Index of 2, allowing for 45 minutes of safe sun exposure, thereby posing minimal risk for skin damage. As spring unfolds, the Index rises notably—hitting 6 in March, which indicates a high risk and a burn time of just 25 minutes. April and May experience peak levels of 9, classified as very high, meaning that sun protection is essential within 15 minutes of exposure, making it crucial for outdoor enthusiasts to be vigilant during these months.
The summer months intensify UV exposure, with June peaking at an extreme UV Index of 11, reducing safe exposure time to only 10 minutes. In July, the Index slightly drops to 10, followed by 9 in both August and September, indicating a continued need for protective measures in the sun. As fall sets in, the UV Index wanes, with October recording a high of 6 but extending burn time back to 25 minutes. The cycle concludes with lower readings in November and December, returning to 2 in the latter month, which emphasizes the importance of understanding seasonal UV patterns for safe sun practices throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
Daylight duration in Braga, Portugal, showcases a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the changes in the Earth's tilt and its effects on solar exposure. In January, residents experience only 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March as spring approaches. April marks a significant shift with 13 hours of daylight, leading into May when daylight peaks at 14 hours. June delivers the longest days of the year, offering 15 hours of sunlight, allowing ample time for outdoor activities and gatherings.
As summer wanes, daylight hours begin to recede, gently transitioning back into shorter periods of light. July retains 14 hours of daylight, but by August, it decreases to 13 hours, followed by a further reduction to 12 hours in September. The decline continues into autumn, with October providing 11 hours before returning to 9 hours in both November and December. This cyclical pattern highlights the importance of seasonal changes in daylight for residents and visitors alike, impacting lifestyle, agriculture, and recreational opportunities throughout the year.
The climate in Apulia, Portugal, features mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from 0°C (33°F) to 20°C (69°F), while July sees highs of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is highest in the winter months, peaking in December with 190 mm (7.5 in), whereas summer months are relatively dry, particularly July and August. Sunshine is abundant, especially in July with 427 hours, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere year-round. For more detailed information, visit Apulia climate.
Braga, Portugal experiences a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool winters. January temperatures range from -3°C to 22°C, while July sees highs of 36°C. Precipitation is significant, peaking in December with 218 mm, while the driest months are July and August with just 24 mm. The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in summer, with July receiving about 427 hours of sunlight. For more details, visit Braga climate.
The climate in Goaes, Portugal, varies significantly throughout the year, with January temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) to a maximum of 20°C (68°F), leading up to much warmer months like August which can reach 36°C (98°F). Precipitation is at its highest in the winter months, particularly in December with 299 mm (11.8 in), while summer sees much lower rainfall, especially in July and August. Sunshine is abundant in the summer, peaking in July with 427 hours, creating a warm and pleasant atmosphere. For more detailed insights, visit Goaes climate.
Guimaraes, Portugal experiences a diverse climate characterized by warm summers and mild winters. Temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C (25°F) in January to a maximum of 38°C (101°F) in August, with an annual average around 16°C (61°F). Precipitation is highest from December to February, with December receiving up to 257 mm (10.1 in) of rain, while summer months see significantly less, peaking at only 29 mm (1.1 in) in July. The city enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in June and July, with over 400 hours of sunshine each month. For more detailed information, visit Guimaraes climate.
Ponte, Portugal, experiences a varied climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January temperatures range from a minimum of -4°C to a maximum of 21°C, while July sees highs up to 35°C. Precipitation is highest in winter and early spring, peaking in December at 257 mm, and sunshine hours are most abundant in summer, with July averaging 427 hours. This makes Ponte an appealing destination for those seeking a blend of scenic weather conditions throughout the year. For more detailed information, visit Ponte climate.
The climate in Real, Portugal, features a range of temperatures throughout the year, with January's average at 8°C (47°F) and peaking at 38°C (101°F) in August. Rainfall is significant, especially in the winter months, with December receiving the highest average precipitation at 218 mm (8.6 in). Sunshine hours are abundant in the summer, with July boasting 427 hours of sunshine, while January sees only 153 hours. Overall, Real experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cooler, wetter winters. For more detailed information, visit Real climate.
In conclusion, Braga, Portugal, presents a rich tapestry of climate characteristics that influence the region's lifestyle and activities throughout the year. With its distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight hours, Braga offers a dynamic environment for both residents and visitors. Understanding these patterns allows for informed decisions regarding outdoor pursuits, sun protection, and agricultural practices. As such, Braga's climate not only defines its natural beauty but also enhances its cultural and social experiences, making it a unique destination for exploration and enjoyment in all seasons.