
Lisbon, Portugal in May is a treat. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average highs of 22°C (72°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F).
You can expect 10 hours of sunshine per day, making it perfect for exploring the city's many neighborhoods.
The Azulejo tiles that adorn the buildings throughout Lisbon are a must-see, and May is a great time to appreciate them as the weather is cool and dry.
The city's famous tram 28 is a great way to see the sights, and you can hop on and off at your leisure.
The Lisbon Oceanarium is a great place to spend a rainy day, or any day for that matter, and is home to over 20,000 marine animals.
Weather in Lisbon
Lisbon in May is a wonderful time to visit, with pleasant and warm temperatures making it perfect for exploring the city.
The average temperature in May is around 17°C, with highs reaching up to 22.1°C and lows dipping to 14°C.

You can expect to feel the temperature rise above 21°C for over half the month, and at least five or six days it will range between 26°C and 30°C for highs.
There's a slight chance of rain, but don't worry, it's usually just a brief thunderstorm that passes quickly.
The sun shines brightly in May, with an average of 9.6 hours of sunshine per day and a UV index of 8, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
You'll get about 14 hours of daylight during May, giving you plenty of time to explore the city and its surroundings.
To pack for your trip, consider bringing lightweight clothing, including short sleeve shirts and long pants or jeans, as well as a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings.
Here's a quick reference guide to help you prepare:
- Average High: 22ºC / 72ºF
- Average Low: 14ºC / 57ºF
- Average Rainfall: 54 millimetres / 2.13 inches
The wind blows at about 16 km/hr in May, so it's a good idea to pack a jacket that can withstand a gentle breeze.
Things to Do

Lisbon, Portugal in May is a treat. The city is filled with exciting things to do, and I'm excited to share some of my favorites with you.
The Parque das Naçoes, or Lisbon Nations Park, is a must-visit in May. This park is situated around the River Tagus and houses the Oceanário de Lisboa, which contains a huge range of sea life as well as a life-size exhibit of extinct sea creatures.
One of the most important Christian sites in the world, the Sanctuary of Fatima, is worth a day-trip from Lisbon. It's located about an hour's drive from Lisbon to the North and is open to the public 24 hours a day.
May is an excellent time to explore Lisbon's ancient streets, such as those in Alfama. These streets meander up to the castle and offer a glimpse into the city's rich history.
If you're interested in history, you might also want to check out the Museu do Oriente, which contains exhibits related to Portugal's historical ties to Asia. It's located on the Doca de Alcantara.
For a unique cultural experience, consider taking a Secret Food Tour of Lisbon. This 3.5-hour walking tour will give you lots of insight into the local culture through its food and drinks.
Here are some other highlights of Lisbon in May:
- Browsing the varied stalls of the Feira da Ladra market (Tuesdays and Sundays)
- Discovering the delightful riverside district of Belém, home to the charming Torre de Belém
- Heading to the stunning beaches of Cascais on a warm sunny day
- Socializing with new friends in one of the many bars in Bairro Alto
- Watching the sunset on a romantic boat tour along the Tejo Estuary
Travel Planning
Lisbon in May is a wonderful time to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. You can expect average highs of around 18°C (64°F) and lows of 14°C (57°F).
The shoulder season in May offers great value for accommodation prices, which are lower than during the peak summer months. I've found that booking a room in a central location can make a big difference in terms of convenience and overall experience.
Here's a breakdown of the average temperatures in Lisbon throughout the year:
Travel Guide: Tips & Highlights
Lisbon has a mild climate, with temperatures not getting too low in winter (typically around 10°C) and not getting too high in summer (peaking around 35°C on some days, but more like 30°C on average).

The city's average temperatures throughout the year are quite consistent, with the warmest month being July, averaging 24°C, and the coolest month being January, averaging 11°C.
Spring is an excellent time to visit Lisbon, with the average number of rainy days dropping from around 12 in March and April to 8 in May and just 5 in June.
One of the best things about visiting Lisbon in the spring is the Jacaranda trees, which begin to blossom and turn the city's squares and avenues purple, creating a breathtaking sight.
You can expect the weather to be mild in spring, with average highs of 18°C in May and 19°C in June.
Some of the highlights of visiting Lisbon in May include exploring the ancient streets of Alfama, browsing the Feira da Ladra market, and discovering the delightful riverside district of Belém.
Here's a rough guide to the average temperatures in Lisbon throughout the year:
Keep an eye on the weather reports, especially in November, as it's one of the wettest months of the year.
Hotels
If you're planning a trip to Lisbon, finding the right hotel can make all the difference.
The Hotel Mundial is a great option if you have a car, as it offers free parking in the Baixa Pombalina district.
Located right by Rossio Square, you'll be in the heart of the action.
The Beautique Hotel Figueira is another centre city hotel worth considering, with its rooftop spa and stunning views of Sao Jorge Castle.
It's close to the Rossio Train Station, making it easy to get around.
For a longer stay or a larger space, try the VIP Executive Eden, which offers large studios and apartments with well-equipped kitchens.
A rooftop pool and solarium are just the icing on the cake.
If luxury is your thing, the InterContinental Lisbon is a 5-star hotel located by Eduardo VII Park.
It has all the amenities you'd expect from a high-end hotel, including several restaurants and lounges.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider The Famous Crows, which offers both private and shared accommodations near the Jeronimos Monastery.
It's a great location and includes a continental breakfast, making it a fantastic value.
Events and Activities
Lisbon, Portugal in May is a wonderful time to visit, with a plethora of events and activities to enjoy. May is a public holiday in Portugal, with Workers' Day celebrated on the first day of May, often marked with parades and demonstrations.
One of the highlights of May in Lisbon is the Indie Lisboa film festival, an 11-day event showcasing documentaries, shorts, and experimental films of all genres. You can catch a glimpse of the festival's offerings at various venues across the city.
For those interested in immersive experiences, Lisbon Under Stars is a must-visit, combining visual effects, virtual musicians, and actors in a virtual journey through 600 years of Portuguese history. The show takes place at the historic Carmo Convent's Ruins.
If you're looking for some free entertainment, head to the gardens next to Belém Tower every Sunday in May, where you can enjoy jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop music as part of the Out Jazz Festival. Concerts start at 5pm, and admission is free.
Lastly, art lovers will appreciate the ARCO Lisboa international contemporary art fair, which brings together emerging and renowned artists, promising to have an impact on the Portuguese contemporary art market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How warm is Portugal in May?
Portugal's daytime temperatures in May range from 68°F to 79°F (20°C to 26°C), while nights are around 50°F to 64°F (10°C to 18°C). Enjoy mild and pleasant weather perfect for outdoor activities.
Featured Images: pexels.com