May in Portugal lands squarely in spring. Expect average daytime highs of 23°C (73°F) and overnight lows around 14°C (57°F) in Lisbon, with the Algarve typically two to three degrees warmer at 24°C (75°F). The Atlantic sits at roughly 17°C (63°F), and you can plan for about 9.5 hours of sunshine on a normal day. Nearly ten hours of sun per day. Long, golden evenings until almost 9pm.
FAQ
Is May a good time to visit Portugal?
Yes. The sweet spot. Warm enough for swimming in the south, cool enough to walk all day. It's one of the more rewarding times to travel here, with light crowds, soft light and authentic local life.
What should I pack for Portugal in May?
Layers you can shed during the day, a light jacket for cooler evenings, sunglasses and comfortable shoes. The light is strong even when temperatures are mild.
Will it rain a lot in Portugal in May?
On average, May sees around 5 days with some rain in Lisbon, often short showers between long sunny spells. The south is consistently drier than the north, and the Algarve in particular stays sunny on most days even in winter.