Why Travel to Lisbon in the Off-Peak Season?

Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital, is a city full of charm, history, and innovation. While Lisbon attracts tourists year-round, off-peak travel (October through March) offers unique opportunities to experience the city’s magic at a fraction of the cost. Here’s why Lisbon is a perfect off-peak destination.


Year-Round Pricing for Airbnb and 4-Star Hotels

MonthAirbnb (Monthly Average, €)4-Star Hotel (Per Night, €)Flight Prices from Europe (Round-Trip, €)Flight Prices from the USA (Round-Trip, $)
January850100120550
February850110130520
March900120150560
April1,000150200600
May1,200180250700
June1,500200300750
July1,700220350850
August1,700220350850
September1,400190300700
October1,100150200600
November850120150500
December850120130550

High Seasons and Most Expensive Days

  • High Season: Summer (June–August) and during major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s.
  • Most Expensive Days: Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Easter Week see spikes in accommodation and flight prices.

Weather and Rainfall Throughout the Year

MonthTemperature (°C)Rainfall (mm)Best Activities
January8-15100Indoor activities, cozy cafés, and tram tours
February9-1690Exploring museums and the historic Alfama area
March10-1870Riverfront walks and outdoor terraces
April12-2060Visiting castles and springtime gardens
May14-2340Alfresco dining and beach day trips
June16-2620Attending local festivals and enjoying nightlife
July18-285Relaxing at beaches and rooftop bars
August18-295Beach escapes and day trips to Sintra
September17-2720Exploring markets and sunset cruises
October14-2360Strolling through parks and vineyard tours
November12-18100Sampling local wines and exploring street art
December9-16120Experiencing Lisbon’s Christmas markets

Benefits of Off-Peak Travel to Lisbon

  1. Lower Costs:
    • Accommodation: Airbnb and hotel rates are significantly lower in the off-peak months (October–March), with potential savings of up to 40%.
    • Flights: Tickets are more affordable, especially in February and November, with average round-trip costs from Europe at €120–€150 and from the USA at $500–$550.
  2. Fewer Crowds:
    • Major attractions like Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and Sintra are far less crowded, offering a more enjoyable experience.
  3. Mild Weather:
    • Even in winter, Lisbon enjoys mild temperatures, making it one of Europe’s most comfortable destinations year-round.
  4. Unique Cultural Experiences:
    • Off-peak seasons feature local festivals like Carnival in February and cozy holiday markets in December.

Tips for Off-Peak Travel

  1. Pack Layers: Weather can vary; bring layers to stay comfortable during cooler evenings.
  2. Book in Advance: While off-peak offers better deals, popular accommodations can still fill up quickly during the holidays.
  3. Take Advantage of Deals: Many attractions and tours offer discounts during the low season.
  4. Explore Beyond Lisbon: Use the lower cost of flights and accommodation to explore nearby gems like Sintra, Cascais, and the Alentejo wine region.

Why Lisbon in Off-Peak?

Traveling to Lisbon during the off-peak season lets you immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm without the stress of crowds and high prices. From its mild winters to its vibrant cultural events, Lisbon offers digital nomads and travelers a perfect blend of affordability and unforgettable experiences.

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