Last updated: January 18, 2025
Porto, Portugal, experiences a Csb climate classification, characterized by a Mediterranean oceanic influence. This coastal city is notable for its mild winters with minimum temperatures dipping to -5°C (24°F) in January, while summer months deliver warm days, peaking at 38°C (101°F) in August. The annual average temperature hovers around 15°C (59°F), contributing to the region's appealing weather and lush landscapes. These climatic conditions not only shape the local ecosystem but also enhance Porto's reputation as a vibrant destination throughout the year.
Porto, Portugal, showcases a distinctive temperature pattern across the seasons, beginning with cold winters where January experiences minimums that can plummet to -5°C (24°F), gradually rising through February and March as average temperatures reach 11°C (52°F) and 12°C (54°F) respectively. Spring ushers in warmer weather, with April temperatures jumping to an average of 14°C (57°F), culminating in May's highs of 32°C (89°F). The summer months of June through August are characteristically hot, with July and August seeing maximum temperatures soar to 36°C (96°F) and 38°C (101°F) respectively, while evenings remain mild. As autumn approaches in September and October, temperatures begin to cool, averaging around 20°C (68°F) in September and dipping to 16°C (62°F) in October, before the winter chill returns. This cyclical shift underscores Porto's dynamic climate, marked by warm, dry summers and cooler, wet winters.
Porto experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F) in January and a maximum of 36°C (98°F) in August monthly temperatures in Porto. Nearby, Matosinhos sees slightly milder conditions, recording a January minimum of 3°C (38°F) and an August maximum of 30°C (87°F) monthly temperatures in Matosinhos. In contrast, Vila Nova de Gaia can get even colder in January, with temperatures dipping to -1°C (31°F), while matching Porto's summer peak of 36°C (98°F) in August monthly temperatures in Vila Nova de Gaia.
Porto, Portugal, is marked by a significant seasonal variation in precipitation, predominantly concentrated in the fall and winter months. January starts the year with 93 mm (3.7 in) of rainfall across approximately 8 days, while February sees a noticeable increase to 140 mm (5.5 in) over 11 days. The trend continues through March and April, where precipitation peaks at 144 mm (5.7 in) and 148 mm (5.8 in) respectively, contributing to the region's lush landscapes. The wettest months emerge in late autumn and early winter, with November delivering a striking 161 mm (6.4 in) over 13 days, followed closely by December with 192 mm (7.5 in) and 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the late spring and summer months experience a marked decline in precipitation, providing a respite from the earlier downpours. Notably, June sees just 51 mm (2.0 in) while July and August are the driest months, receiving only 23 mm (0.9 in) and 19 mm (0.8 in) respectively, each with just 3 days of rainfall. This dry spell in the summer allows for predominantly clear skies and warm temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. As autumn approaches, precipitation levels gradually rise again, reflecting Porto's distinct climatic cycle that balances wet and dry seasons beautifully.
Porto, Portugal, experiences a noticeable increase in sunshine duration from winter to summer, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere as the year progresses. January starts the year with a modest 159 hours of sunshine, but this figure steadily climbs as spring approaches, reaching 287 hours in March and peaking at 345 hours in April. May marks a significant leap to 405 hours, indicating the approach of more favorable weather. The sunny trend continues into June with 406 hours, setting the stage for summer.
The warmest months of July and August see sunshine durations reach their peak, with an impressive 427 hours in July, followed closely by 396 hours in August. As summer gives way to autumn, sunshine hours begin to taper off, dropping to 346 hours in September and further declining to 302 hours in October. The latter part of the year presents a resurgence in cloud cover as November and December yield only 207 hours and 182 hours respectively. This distinct seasonal variation highlights Porto's transition from bright, sun-drenched summers to the cooler, cloudier months, emphasizing the city's dynamic climate.
The UV Index in Porto, Portugal, illustrates a clear seasonal pattern, reflecting the increasing intensity of solar radiation as the year unfolds. Beginning in the winter months, January and February present a moderate UV Index of 3 and 4 respectively, allowing for relatively safe outdoor activity with a burn time of 30 minutes. As spring arrives, there is a marked shift; by March, the UV Index escalates to 6, categorized as high, indicating that individuals should begin to take precautions. The most significant increases occur in April and May, where the UV Index peaks at 9, categorized as very high, and necessitating shade or protective measures within just 15 minutes of exposure.
The summer months bring the highest UV readings, with June reaching an extreme UV Index of 11 and a dangerously short burn time of just 10 minutes. This intensity remains present in July, where the UV Index is 10, and in August, it drops slightly to 9, still requiring vigilant sun protection. As autumn approaches, by September, the UV Index lowers to 8, still classified as very high, before further reducing to 6 in October, indicating high exposure risk. By November and December, the UV Index declines significantly to 4 and 2 respectively, reflecting the decrease in sunlight and a corresponding increase in safe exposure times, ultimately promoting awareness of sun safety throughout the year.
UV Risk Categories
In Porto, Portugal, daylight duration exhibits a distinct seasonal rhythm, with noticeable variations as the year progresses. Beginning in January, the city experiences around 9 hours of daylight, which gradually increases to 10 hours in February and 11 hours in March. This upward trend continues into spring, culminating in 13 hours of daylight in April and reaching an impressive 14 hours by May, reflecting the growing warmth and activity of the season. The longest days occur in June, with a peak daylight duration of 15 hours, providing ample time for outdoor exploration.
As summer transitions into autumn, daylight hours begin to taper off, starting with 14 hours in July, then gradually decreasing to 13 hours in August and 12 hours in September. This decline continues into the fall, where the daylight duration drops to 11 hours in October. By November and December, Porto experiences shorter days once again, each with just 9 hours of daylight. This cyclic pattern highlights the stark contrast between the long, sunlit days of summer and the brief days during winter, giving residents and visitors alike a taste of Porto's diverse seasonal character.
Amarante, Portugal enjoys a diverse climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -5°C to 19°C, while August can reach up to 37°C. The region experiences significant rainfall, particularly in February (145 mm) and November (148 mm), with the driest months being July (26 mm) and August (20 mm). Sunshine hours peak in July at 428 hours, contributing to the warm and pleasant summer atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Amarante climate.
Lavra, Portugal experiences a mild Mediterranean climate characterized by warm summers and cool, wet winters. Average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July, with a yearly peak reaching 30°C (87°F) in August. The region receives significant rainfall, especially from November to April, with December recording the highest precipitation at 161 mm (6.3 in). Sunshine hours vary, peaking in July at 426 hours and decreasing to 161 hours in January. For more detailed climate information, visit Lavra climate.
Matosinhos, Portugal experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July and August, with maximums peaking at 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly in November and December, while summer months see significantly less rainfall, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Sunshine hours peak in July, averaging around 426 hours, contributing to the city's pleasant summer atmosphere. For more detailed information, visit Matosinhos climate.
Porto, Portugal experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 9°C (49°F) in January to 21°C (70°F) in July, with peak highs reaching up to 36°C (98°F) in August. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly in November (156 mm) and December (187 mm), while summer months like July and August see significantly less rain (23 mm and 19 mm, respectively). The city enjoys ample sunshine, especially during summer, with July averaging 427 hours of sunshine. For more detailed information, visit Porto climate.
Póvoa de Varzim, Portugal, experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. January sees temperatures ranging from 0°C to 20°C, while July peaks around 31°C. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, with December recording 190 mm, and drops significantly in summer, reaching just 19 mm in July. The region enjoys ample sunshine, boasting over 400 hours in both June and July, making it ideal for summer activities. For more detailed information, visit Povoa de Varzim climate.
Vila do Conde, Portugal features a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 11°C (52°F) in January to 20°C (68°F) in July and August, with maximums reaching up to 30°C (87°F). Precipitation is heaviest in the winter months, particularly in November (144 mm) and December (161 mm), while summer sees significantly less rainfall, with just 18 mm in July. The region enjoys ample sunshine, peaking at 426 hours in July and August. For more information, visit Vila do Conde climate.
Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal, experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasonal variations. Winters are cool, with January temperatures ranging from a chilly -1°C to a mild 21°C, while summers can be quite warm, reaching highs of 36°C in August. Precipitation is highest in the winter months, particularly in December and November, with an annual total that complements the sunny summers, which boast around 427 hours of sunshine in July. This combination of warmth and rainfall creates a lush environment, making Vila Nova de Gaia a picturesque area. For more detailed information, visit Vila Nova de Gaia climate.
In conclusion, Porto, Portugal, offers a rich tapestry of climatic characteristics throughout the year, showcasing distinct seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV Index, and daylight. As the city transitions from the chilly months of winter to the vibrant warmth of summer, locals and visitors alike can experience the marked differences in weather patterns and outdoor conditions. Understanding these dynamics not only enhances appreciation for Porto's unique climate but also reinforces the importance of seasonal awareness for planning outdoor activities and ensuring sun safety. Ultimately, Porto's diverse climate contributes to its charm, making it a captivating destination year-round.