Visiting Lisbon in February offers several advantages:
Fewer Crowds: Compared to the peak summer months, February is a relatively quiet time for tourism. You’ll encounter smaller crowds at popular attractions, allowing for more leisurely exploration.
Affordable Accommodation: Hotel rates tend to be lower during the off-season, making it an excellent time to secure a comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation.
Historical and Cultural Events: February coincides with the celebration of Carnival, a lively festival filled with parades, costumes, and music. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness this vibrant tradition.
Opportunity for Outdoor Activities: Despite the cooler temperatures, many outdoor activities remain accessible in Lisbon during February. You can enjoy strolls along the scenic waterfront, explore the charming Alfama district, or take a leisurely bike ride in the Parque das Nações.
Unique Culinary Experiences: Winter is an excellent time to savor traditional Portuguese cuisine. Sample hearty dishes like Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá (codfish casserole) or Caldo Verde (Portuguese green cabbage soup), which offer a comforting escape from the chilly weather.
Weather In Lisbon During February
Average Weather Conditions in Lisbon, Portugal in February:
Temperature:
- Average high: 14°C (57°F)
- Average low: 9°C (48°F)
- Average daily temperature: 11-12°C (52-54°F)
Rainfall:
- Average monthly rainfall: 71 mm (2.8 inches)
- Rain occurs on an average of 10 days in February
Humidity:
- Average humidity: 78%
Sunshine:
- Average daily sunshine hours: 6 hours
- Sunshine percentage: 50%
Wind:
- Average wind speed: 17 km/h (11 mph)
Description:
February in Lisbon is generally a mild and pleasant month, with cool and crisp mornings and evenings, and moderate temperatures during the day. Rainfall is common, but it typically occurs in short bursts, and the sun often shines in between showers. The city is less crowded during this time, which can make it a great time to visit for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
Things To Do In Lisbon In February
February-Exclusive Events:
- Carnival: (late February to early March) Lisbon’s Carnival is one of the biggest and most colorful in Europe, featuring parades, live music, and street performers.
Cultural Attractions and Events:
- Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo (National Tile Museum): Explore the world of Portuguese tiles, from traditional designs to contemporary artwork.
- Attend a Fado Performance: Experience the soulful music of Fado, a traditional Portuguese genre, at venues like Tasca do Chico or Alfama Fado Experience.
- Explore the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery: Admire the iconic Manueline architecture of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, symbolizing Lisbon’s maritime history.
Other Activities:
- Stroll through the Alfama District: Get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets and discover charming cafes, historic buildings, and panoramic viewpoints.
- Take the Elevador da Bica: Ride the charming funicular tram to the Bairro Alto neighborhood, offering stunning city views.
- Visit the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology): Explore cutting-edge exhibitions and learn about Lisbon’s artistic and technological heritage.
- Indulge in Portuguese Cuisine: Sample traditional dishes like bacalhau (cod), arroz de marisco (seafood rice), and pastel de nata (custard tarts) at local restaurants.
Additional Tips:
- February weather in Lisbon is typically mild and sunny, with average temperatures around 50-60°F (10-15°C).
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially if visiting during Carnival.
- Learn a few basic Portuguese phrases to enhance your interactions.
- Take advantage of the public transportation system, which is efficient and affordable.
Tourism In Lisbon, Portugal During February
Lisbon offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and charm during the quieter months of February, allowing visitors to experience its vibrant essence without the summer crowds.
Strolling through the historic Alfama district, one can soak up the enchanting atmosphere as fado music drifts from open doorways, evoking the city’s soulful past. Alfama’s narrow, winding streets lead to hidden courtyards and panoramic viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of the red-tiled rooftops and the Tagus River below.
Exploring the imposing São Jorge Castle, perched atop a hill, grants a panoramic perspective of the city’s landmarks. Its ancient walls and towers exude a sense of history, inviting visitors to delve into Lisbon’s rich heritage.
The Belém district, home to the iconic Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, showcases the city’s maritime past. The elaborate architecture of these UNESCO World Heritage sites pays homage to Portugal’s era of exploration, when intrepid sailors set sail from Lisbon.
For art enthusiasts, the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian houses a renowned collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from around the world, providing a glimpse into the diverse influences that have shaped Lisbon’s artistic landscape.
As the sun sets, Lisbon’s nightlife scene comes alive in the vibrant Bairro Alto district. Here, one can indulge in traditional Portuguese cuisine at cozy restaurants, sip cocktails at trendy bars, or enjoy live music in intimate venues, immersing themselves in the city’s lively atmosphere.