The Mediterranean climate in the Algarve makes it a popular holiday destination with people from all over the world. With more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, the Algarve is, on average, technically sunnier than California! The easternmost parts of the region tend to be hotter than those on the west coast, such as Lagos, but the difference isn’t really big enough to make you want to change your travel plans.
For the hottest weather, fly to Faro and then hire a car to travel further east to Tavira. We’ve put together a quick overview of the sort of weather you can expect at the time of year you travel.
Spring
Temperatures lurk around the low 20s in spring, which is pleasant but not too scorching. There will be the odd rain shower so make sure you pack a lightweight jacket. The evenings can also be cool nearer the coast, so don’t expect to be going out in tiny dresses just yet. Spring is the best time of year to take an adventure holiday in the Algarve, as it’s warm but not too hot, so you won’t tire as quickly or run such a high risk of getting sunburnt.
Summer
It’s not uncommon to see temperatures well into the 30s in July and August, particularly inland, with average highs throughout summer reaching the high 20s. Be prepared for some sticky nights, with temperatures rarely dropping below about 18 degrees, though thankfully this tends to be a dry rather than humid heat. The wind direction can make a big difference, with winds from the south bringing extreme heat from Africa, while wind from the west has a cooling effect from the Atlantic. The sea temperature hits an average of 21 degrees, which while cooler than other parts of the Mediterranean, is still pleasantly warm.
Autumn
Deep into October and November, infrequent thunderstorms may pass over the Algarve from the Atlantic, but these don’t tend to hang around and shouldn’t be excessively heavy. While it is still fairly warm, up to around 23 degrees in October and 19 in November, the reduced temperatures see fewer tourists, meaning accommodation and attraction prices tend to be lower, and most parts of the Algarve are less busy. This is a good time of year for hiking and biking holidays in the region.
Winter
Winter is obviously the coolest part of the year, with daytime temperatures averaging 15 degrees and nights falling to a chillier 10 degrees. If the wind blows from the south, temperatures of up to 20 degrees aren’t particularly unusual. It’s very rare for the Algarve to see snow, though it’s possible that further inland some light frost may occur. Rainfall hits its peak during winter, but it tends to arrive in short, light bursts and pass over relatively quickly. Blustery winter weather can create excellent sailing conditions, so if you’re a boating buff you can take advantage of the Algarve’s coastal wind.
