Portugal in February: Almond Blossom, Carnival and Winter Sun

February in Portugal brings the first signs of spring: almond blossom across the Algarve hills, longer days, Carnival parades and some of the lowest prices of the year. It’s drier than January, with plenty of sunny days, especially in the south. Here’s what to expect.

Quick answer: expect highs of about 15–16°C in Lisbon, 17°C in the Algarve and 19°C in Madeira, usually drier than January. Highlights: the almond blossom in the Algarve, Carnival (9 February 2027) in Loulé, Torres Vedras, Ovar and Madeira, and big waves at Nazaré. Great value for city breaks and walking.

Weather

• Lisbon: highs around 15–16°C.
• Porto: around 15°C, still fairly wet.
• The Algarve: around 17°C with lots of sunshine; the sea is at its coldest (about 14°C).
• Madeira: around 19°C.

What’s on

• Almond blossom: the inland Algarve hills turn white and pink, with a festival in Castro Marim.
• Carnival: parades in Loulé (the Algarve’s biggest), Torres Vedras (Portugal’s most Portuguese carnival), Ovar and Funchal. Carnival Tuesday is 9 February 2027.
• Nazaré’s big waves. See Nazaré.
• Skiing in Serra da Estrela.

Where to go

• The Algarve: almond blossom, cliff walks and golf. See the Algarve in winter and Algarve villages.
• Madeira: Carnival and mild weather. See Madeira.
• Lisbon and Porto: quiet sights and low prices. See 2 days in Lisbon.

Tips

• Carnival week is busy in Loulé, Torres Vedras and Madeira, so book early.
• Pack layers and a light waterproof.
• Low season prices for hotels and car hire.

More: January, Portugal in spring and the festivals calendar.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.