Are you planning a winter trip, and found yourself wondering if it snows in Portugal? Most people consider Portugal a summer destination, so you might be surprised to hear that yes it does snow in Portugal!
While you’re unlikely to see snow in any of the popular cities, with just a short trip to the mountainous central and northern regions you’ll notice how different the landscape is.
In this post, I’m going to walk you through the best places to ski in Portugal, and important things you need to be aware of when travelling through Portugal in Winter.
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When Does It Snow In Portugal
Winter runs from December to February, and while the weather is mostly mild, Central and Northern Portugal does experience some snow during this time.
However, the mountain ranges can get fresh snow as early as October, and right through to April.
Where Can I See Snow In Portugal
Portugal doesn’t get as much snow as other countries in Europe, with only a handful of areas getting varying amounts of snow each year.
Here are some of the best places to see snow in Portugal, including activities available and where to stay in each area.
Serra Da Estrela Mountains
Located 3 hours north of Lisbon, the Serra Da Estrela mountain range is considered the snowiest place in Portugal.
It’s also the only place to consistently see snow in Portugal during winter.
The area is popular with locals and tourists who flock to the mountains for various winter sports, including sledging, skiing and snowboarding.
With plenty of hiking trails and things to do nearby, Portugal’s highest mountain (1,993 metres at the highest point) is a great place to visit all year around.
During the winter months it’s also Portugal’s most popular, and only, ski resort!
If you’re not interested in skiing, that’s ok! You should still visit the region to taste its famous cheese and hams.
Getting to Serra Da Estrela
Getting to Serra Da Estrela is quite straightforward, since there is a sealed road that takes you right to the top.
It’s roughly 3 hours north from Lisbon, and a little over 2 hours south of Porto. Google maps will get you there on the easiest route, and you don’t need to worry about toll roads.
If you’re travelling in a larger van, you will want to double check that it isn’t taking you through any narrow streets of the traditional rural villages.
In winter, you will also want to check the road conditions.
Snow chains may be required if there is fresh snow or ice on the roads. We were able to drive up in January without them, but that isn’t always the case.
Public transport to this part of Portugal is limited to non-existent, restricted only to taxis/Uber which can be expensive. If you don’t have your own car, you may want to consider a short rental so you can experience the snow.
Where To Stay In Serra Da Estrela
There are several quaint and traditional villages in the Serra Da Estrela mountains, so you’re not short of accommodation options.
At the top of Serra Da Estrela is a large car park that allows overnight camping when it isn’t overly busy. After nearby businesses close, there are no facilities available but it offers beautiful sunrise views!
Below is a map of other accommodation options in the area closest to the National Park, from budget to luxury.
Serra do Gerês
Close to the Spanish border, the next place to see snow in Portugal is the mountain ranges of Serra do Gerês.
Snow here is much less predictable, which is why there isn’t a ski field, but it’s still a good spot for hiking and beautiful waterfalls, and it’s much quieter than Serra Da Estrela.
Getting to Serra do Gerês
Serra do Gerês is almost 2 hours north from Porto, straddling the border between Spain and Portugal.
This area has a lot of narrow, winding roads that are less travelled than in Serra Da Estrela but you’re less likely to get extreme ice or snow.
However, it’s always worth checking the weather reports and road conditions before setting off!
Where To Stay Near Serra do Gerês
There are fewer options for accommodation near Serra Do Geres if you’re looking for hotels or paid accommodation, however, there are more free campsites if you’re road tripping around the country. For those, we recommend checking out Park4Night or one of the other road trip Apps.
Below is a map of what’s available if you’re looking for hotels or private rentals.
Best Time For Skiing In Portugal
According to snow-forecast, the best time for skiing in Portugal is February and March.
We’ve visited twice through different January’s and have vastly different experiences each time. The first time, there was barely any snow left from the first dusting of the year.
The second time around, there was a lot and it was much busier with families.
It’s clear that snowfall is becoming increasingly less predictable in mainland Portugal, so we don’t recommend holidaying there if all you want to do is visit a ski resort. There are better European countries for that, such as Austria or Switzerland.
Does It Snow In Lisbon?
Lisbon does get snow, but it’s very very rare.
The last time it happened was in 2006, It’s so rare that many locals experienced it for the first time, making it a historical event.
January and February are Lisbon’s coldest months, with temperatures dropping to around 8’cm. In the last 2+ years of living in Portugal, we haven’t seen Lisbon experience so much as a heavy frost.
Does It Snow In Porto?
Snow in Porto is almost as rare as Lisbon, happening on average once every 5-6 years.
According to my research, the last time it happened was 2009 but it was barely enough to create snowballs. More of a flutter than proper snowfall.
In reality, Central Portugal is going to be your best chance for seeing snow more so than anywhere along the coast where cool weather quickly turns to rain.
Does It Snow In The Algarve?
Snow in the Algarve is going to be incredibly rare. Almost impossible in fact, due to the Mediterranean climate that is a stark contrast to that in Northern Portugal.
While temperatures in the Algarve sit around 18’c during the winter, December is considered the wettest month for this region. You’re more likely to experience a soggy Christmas here, than a white one.
Tips For Visiting Portugal In The Snow:
For the most part, your trip to Portugal in winter won’t be overly impacted by snow. Main roads between towns and cities, away from the mountains, are rarely icy.
However, here are some important things to know if you plan to head into the mountains or colder regions of Portugal we’ve discussed in this guide:
Emergency Numbers
Portugal’s emergency number is 112. However, if you dial the number from your home country it will still connect you.
If you don’t speak Portuguese, that’s ok, even via the 112 number you’ll be able to be connected to an English speaking operator.
Safe Communities Portugal is a good resource for tracking general safety alerts across the country
Road Conditions
We’ve touched upon this briefly, but whenever you’re heading into the mountains you will want to check the road conditions. Especially if you’re in a large vehicle that might struggle with ice on hilly roads. You can use Via Michelin to keep track of the conditions.
If you are hiring a car, remember to ask about snow chains. If you’re driving to the mountains when there’s snow, there’s a good chance you’ll need them.
Weather Conditions
Whichever weather app you prefer to use, you’re going to want to check it before heading into the mountains. Even if the weather is ok in the lower towns, up in the mountains things change quickly.
Winter Clothes
Of course, if you’re going skiing you’re going to want to pack ski clothes. Aside from that, you will want to pack layers. Winter in Portugal brings hit and miss weather, warm and sunny in the day but bitterly cold if there’s a wind or heavy cloud cover. Layers will help you adjust as the weather switches and changes throughout the day.
Tips For Taking Dogs To The Snow In Portugal:
If you’re travelling with your pup, chances are you’re going to want to take them to see the snow too!
When Lilly first joined our family, it was one of our first trips with her. Here are a few tips we picked up while we were there:
Pack A Coat
We didn’t stay long out in the snow at all because we hadn’t yet got a coat for Lil. With Portugal’s snow being restricted to the mountains, they’re not something many pet shops seemed to stock around us so we had to go without.
While Lil was totally fine, the wind can be bitterly cold so we wouldn’t have wanted to keep her out in it for long without a warmer layer.
Of course, Lilly is a Portuguese Podengo so she’s bred for working in hot weather rather than the cold. In fact, now that she’s older anything below 15’c is cold for her!
If you have a Husky or something more suited to the snow, this won’t necessarily be an issue for you!
We really like Ruffewear’s collection of winter coats and harnesses, although she hasn’t had any other opportunities to wear it! Her raincoat, however? She wears that alot!
Foot Protection
Everyone knows about protecting their feet from hot concrete (or avoiding them completely) but protecting their feet from the ice and grit is equally as important.
Dog shoes are probably the most well known foot protection, but we actually really like Musher’s Secret Paw Wax. This wax soaks into their paw pads to form a protective layer against extreme temperatures – including heat!
You only need to apply it a few times a week too, so it’s much easier for them than having to learn how to walk in shoes. Something that many dogs find stressful at first.
Limited Access
While most of this part of Portugal is dog friendly, dogs are not allowed inside the shops or cafes at the top of Serra Da Estrela. You will need to have an alternative plan for pup while you go and explore what’s on offer.
Avoiding Snow In Portugal
It isn’t hard to avoid snow in Portugal, even if you’re visiting during the middle of winter.
Coastal regions rarely get cold enough, so if you’re visiting any of the popular spots such as Porto, Lisbon or the Algarve you’ll still be able to enjoy a mild winter.
These regions rarely get below 0’s, particularly in the South.
Final Thoughts About Snow In Portugal
Overall, if you’re heading to Portugal in winter and have your own vehicle there’s a good chance of seeing snow on the mountains.
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