The Best Towns To Visit On A Spring Trip To Portugal

Springtime unleashes a contagious excitement, especially within the travel space. The weather gets warmer, the days get longer, and would-be explorers have the chance to book a snow-free trip. The only problem with setting out during this season? It can be hard to pinpoint which destinations actually offer an agreeable climate. After all, even though you may love the May flowers that spring from April showers, you likely aren't eager to travel in the middle of a rainstorm. Luckily, Portugal provides a fantastic solution to this problem. With one of the mildest climates in all of Europe, the country offers visitors relatively warm temperatures in an overall pleasant environment — just one of the many reasons you should make Portugal your next adventure destination.

Although some of Portugal's' Northern Atlantic cities like Porto can be very hit-and-miss in the springtime, plenty of other destinations stay sunny — even throughout March and April. As a former resident of Portugal myself, I have plenty of experience exploring the region during this transitional season. Over the years, I have spent spring vacations lounging in beach towns, learning in historical centers, and even attending a local festival or two. Overall, my favorite spring spots offer some combination of fantastic weather and unique cultural events as winter transforms into summer.

In many parts of the Northern Hemisphere, spring doesn't necessarily translate to beach season. However, in Portugal's southernmost Algarve region, nothing could be further from the truth. Spanning  a crystal clear stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, this area boasts beautiful sunshine and limited rainfall. In March and April, travelers can expect highs in the low 70s — perfect for stretching out on the beach. Although you have no shortage of hidden gems to check out on a trip to the Algarve, the town of Lagos remains one of the best destinations around. Thanks to its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, Lagos makes the ideal location for hiking along the coastline or sun bathing in a secluded seaside cove.

Of course, Lagos offers more than fantastic beaches. The town's quaint and charming historical center boasts old white houses lined up along streets decorated with calçada Portuguesa, a type of tile pattern reminiscent of mosaics. Grab your camera, wander the pedestrian areas, and snap pictures of the centuries-old buildings. Main sites include the old city walls and a 17th-century fortress called Forte Ponta da Bandeira. If you feel tired after all your wandering, plop down at a local café and order a refreshing glass of sangria. Alternatively, you can try trincadeira, a red wine Lagos locals have enjoyed for years. Either way, you'll get to savor a well-crafted drink in a stunning city.

Algarve features more places brimming with charm than just Lagos. Located about half an hour from the Spanish border, the town of Tavira has a rich cultural history. Excavation in the historical center uncovered the ruins of a Phoenician settlement estimated to date back to 800 BC. While this site has not fully opened to the public, travelers can wander down the Largo da Misericórdia road and gaze down at the excavation below. Afterwards, they can head to the Museu Municipal de Tavira's Islamic Center to view artifacts from the era when Tavira was part of the Islamic Empire. Meanwhile, folks interested in Catholic history can enjoy upwards of 23 religious buildings in the town center.

Although Tavira offers an interesting blend of historic cultural experiences, beach lovers still have plenty of activities to choose from. For just €2.50 ($2.72), travelers can catch a public water taxi that will whisk them to the nearby island of Tavira to enjoy long stretches of sand. Walking enthusiasts will enjoy strolling down miles of uninterrupted beaches, while photographers can capture images of the island's historic lighthouse. Folks who just want to curl up with a cocktail and a good book can spend the afternoon lounging beneath a tiki umbrella and staring at the ocean.

Portugal has long been famous for its misunderstood green wine. However, vinicultural specialists will tell you that the country offers far more than this unique category of vino. To get a taste of some of Portugal's finest reds, head to Évora. Located just two hours from Lisbon by train, fantastic vineyards surround the city. Arguably the most famous among them is Cartuxa, a label known for its scientific partnership with the local Universidade de Évora. Head to the winery, enjoy a tasting, or even order a meal. Folks interested in sober tourism will not be disappointed by the option to taste olive oil rather than vino.

Beyond the agricultural elements of a trip to Évora, travelers can enjoy a number of historical sites. The town's 17th century Capela de Osses ("Chapel of Bones"), a hauntingly beautiful and macabre ossuary, is world-famous for using human bones as its primary building material. The Roman Temple of Évora, meanwhile, stands as a reminder of the region's ancient history. Stop by these destinations then wander the city center, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Springtime offers the perfect meteorological conditions to explore the city comfortably. Temperatures in the high 60s will likely save guests from the rainy conditions common in the winter and desert-style hot weather typical in the summer months.

While weather might motivate you to travel to Portugal during the springtime, you should consider other factors. Some Portuguese towns celebrate the onset of the season with charming local festivals that blend food, sweets, and history. Located just two hours away from Lisbon by public bus, Óbidos throws its International Chocolate Festival every year in late March and early April. With the live creation of chocolate sculptures, intense chocolate-making competitions, and hands-on chocolate workshops, this festival is a dessert-lover's dream. In fact, Óbidos might even be considered one of Portugal's best foodie destinations thanks, at least in part, to its legendary chocolate celebration.

Although the chocolate festival serves as a big draw, Óbidos offers plenty of other activities, such as a visit to the Castelo de Óbidos, which stands as an example of the region's gorgeous historical architecture. Wander through the old rooms, observe the stone walls, and gaze out of the ancient windows. Afterwards, grab lunch at one of the many restaurants located in the shadow of the castle. In the afternoon, you can stop at the Museum of Óbidos to see a fascinating collection of artwork dating back to the 15th century. Even in the weeks before or after the chocolate festival, there may be no better place to enjoy a relaxing day trip away from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon.

Portugal's Serra da Estrela may not be one of the most famous spring skiing destinations, but that's part of its charm. Hidden away in the Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela preserve, this rustic ski resort provides tons of mountainside fun at a relatively accessible price. With just three poma lifts and one chairlift, Serra da Estrela keeps its facilities relatively simple. However, when you consider that an adult day pass — including ski and equipment rentals — costs just €60 ($65), the experience is definitely worth it.

Skiers are not the only ones who will adore the ambiance in Serra da Estrela. Foodies also tend to enjoy this mountainside town thanks to its rich culinary traditions. Cozy up in one of the area's adorable old restaurants and sit down to a meal of cured meats and artisanal cheeses. If you want to learn more about Serra da Estrela's regional gastronomy, you can even sign up for a tour. Depending on your interests, you can make homemade goat cheese, stomp grapes, or even try your hand at shepherding. By the end of you trip, you might even be able to call yourself something of a local food aficionado. Skiing and delicious food: What's not to love?

If you're looking for a relaxing seaside town close to Lisbon, Setúbal might be the destination for you. Located just 45 minutes from the Portuguese capital, Setúbal boasts a stunning natural coastline surrounded by lush greenery. The town's Praia de Albarquel beach offers breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean, while its historic center invites visitors to discover a maze of brightly-colored buildings and historic fountains. Foodies will be particularly astounded by the incredible eats in Setúbal. The Mercado do Livramento traditional food market is the perfect place to buy fresh produce or even some swordfish steaks if that's your thing. And it's practically mandatory to sample the town's famous fried cuttlefish served in large, mouth-watering hunks.

Although Setúbal is gorgeous year-round, there really is no time like spring for a visit. Due to the town's close proximity to Lisbon, it can get crowded during the summer months when many Portuguese locals schedule their yearly vacations. Winter, meanwhile, is not exactly the ideal season to plan a coastal getaway. I recommend visiting in either April or May when the temperatures reach the high 60s and low 70s. This will not only allow you to catch some rays at the beach but also help you beat the crowds, making for a less hectic trip.

It's no secret that riding a gondola in Venice is a bucket list classic, but the famed "City of Bridges" is not the only European locale where you can boat through the center of town. Aveiro, Portugal also offers a network of canals that connects the city's most popular neighborhoods and provides a whole new perspective on the area, earning the romantic and trendy city the nickname of "Portugal's Venice." Simply hop into one of the colorful moliceiro and take a waterside tour of the city. Social media lovers will find the experience totally photographable, while history buffs will appreciate the old-timey importance of the moliceiro. All in all, the experience is a fantastic way to relax and take in the spectacular Art Nouveau buildings that line the canals.

Although the moliceiro tours are certainly a highlight, you'll find other attractions of note in town. The Museu de Aveiro municipal museum offers a wide collection of religious artwork, while the Passadiços de Aveiro boardwalks make for an excellent place to observe the region's natural ecosystems. Day trips to the Paiva Walkways and the Arouca Suspension bridge are also a must — especially for anyone who enjoys a good view. The best part is that spring offers the ideal weather to enjoy all these outings. March and April temperatures generally linger in the 50s and 60s during the day, allowing visitors to soak up the great outdoors without suffering from extreme weather.

There's nothing like wandering through the center of a medieval city — especially in a town as picturesque as Bragança. Situated near Portugal's northeastern border with Spain, Bragança thrusts visitors into a historical world characterized by castles, ramparts, and towers. Climb to the highest part of the Castelo de Bragança castle and look out over nearby farmland. Then, duck into the Igreja de Santa Maria church to experience a religious environment that historians can trace back to the 11th or 12th centuries. As you marvel at the gorgeous paintings decorating the church ceilings, you may even feel like you've traveled back in time. 

While you can't go wrong visiting Bragança at any time of year, spring offers unique perks. Every year during the first weekend of May, the city celebrates the lively Feira das Cantarinhas festival. At this exciting event, locals gather in the streets and gift each other "cantarinhas" — or tiny clay jugs meant to symbolize romantic love. Feel free to partake in the cantarinha exchange, or simply wander the open-air marketplace. Shopping enthusiasts will be happy to know that vendors attend the festival to sell handcrafted artisan goods ranging from clay plates to cooking trays. Folks who don't have room in their luggage for souvenirs can still enjoy food stands and local musical performances. All in all, springtime in Bragança is perfect for diving into Portuguese culture.

When it comes to surfing in Portugal, the town of Nazaré has claimed the most fame. Yet, Nazaré caters more to world-ranked professional surfers; more typical athletes will likely find it too extreme. Instead of trying to tackle one of the town's iconic 100-foot waves, surfing enthusiasts can head to Viana do Castelo, a coastal town that boasts gorgeous beaches with waves perfect for surfing year-round. Although plenty of folks jump in the water during the wintertime, the slightly warmer spring temperatures make the experience all the better.

More than just surfers will enjoy the energy in Viana do Castelo. History buffs can dig deep into the city's fascinating past: A visit to the Citânia Santa Luzia will give you the chance to walk over ancient Celtic ruins that pre-date the Roman era, while a stop at the nearby Basilica of Santa Luzia will whisk you back to the early 20th century. Folks interested in the elaborate historical dresses once made in Viana do Castelo will love the Museu do Traje clothing museum. Foodies, meanwhile, may gravitate towards one of the region's four Michelin-recognized restaurants or Fábrica do Chocolate, its amazing chocolate-themed hotel. The best part? Spring does not attract as many tourists to Portugal as during the bustling summer months, meaning you'll have the chance to experience Viana do Castelo in relative peace.  

Some people travel to surf. Others travel to eat. If you fall into the second category of explorer, you might want to add Valença do Minho to your springtime travel itinerary. In spring, this idyllic town in Northern Portugal throws a massive gastronomic festival. The theme selected for 2025 was "The taste of lamprey from the Minho River." Visitors can try several different preparations of this unique fish like Lamprey rice in a risotto-like dish and stuffed lamprey filled with eggs and prosciutto. Folks who don't care for lamprey can still enjoy other traditional Portuguese staples, such as cod.

Naturally, more than just the food stands out in Valença do Minho and the surrounding region. Following the festival, visitors should stick around to explore the Fortaleza de Valença fortress. Wander the old military structure, then head into the historic city center where plenty of old tiled houses abound. Indulge in some shopping at one of the local fairs or set out on a stroll down the Rio Minho. Valença do Minho is a great place to eat, walk, relax and enjoy the European rhythm of life.

As a former resident of Portugal, it thrilled me to share some of the hidden gems visitors often forget to include on their spring itineraries. When compiling my recommendations, I paid special attention to the weather, choosing locations like Lagos, Tavira, and Aveiro that tend to offer mild temperatures during this time of year. I also wanted to highlight the spots that feature unique festivals during Portugal's shoulder seasons. Thus, Óbidos, Bragança, and Valença do Minho all made the cut.

Although great weather and fascinating festivals often make for a fantastic spring getaway on their own, some travelers hope to enjoy the outdoors on their vacations. With this in mind, I recommended Serra da Estrela for spring skiing and Viana do Castelo for spring surfing. Foodie culture is also very important to me. In the spirit of promoting Portuguese eats, I selected Évora for its unforgettable olive oil and wine culture. Setúbal, meanwhile, appeared for its fantastic food market and legendary fried cuttlefish restaurants.