Lisbon in spring: How to make the most of your visit

Lisbon awakens in spring, greeting visitors with a burst of color, lively events, and mild weather. The city's historic architecture, panoramic vistas — such as the breathtaking view of São Jorge Castle — and mouthwatering cuisine invite exploration of its millennias-old history. Whether it’s the plethora of festivals catering to every kind of traveler, or the clear skies offering the best conditions for boat tours and sunset picnics, the spring season presents Lisbon in the best light. From walks in Parque Tejo to the street celebrations of Festas dos Santos Populares, discover all the best things to do in Lisbon in spring.

Lisbon's best spring activities at a glance

The best places to see spring flowers in Lisbon: Parque Tejo, the Botanical Garden.

Top things to do for kids and families visiting Lisbon in spring: Take a scenic boat tour or enjoy a picnic by the Tagus River.

Unique events in Lisbon in spring: Festas dos Santos Populares, Open Day in Lx Factory.

1. Experience Lisbon's Festas dos Santos Populares

The Festas dos Santos Populares, or Popular Saints Festival, honors three major saints with citywide events throughout June, reaching its festive peak on the 12th of June. One of the main attractions is the Marchas Populares parade along Avenida da Liberdade, where various neighborhoods prepare a charismatic song-and-dance performance complete with custom outfits, with the hopes of taking home the top prize. Visitors can participate by cheering on their favorite neighborhoods. Head to the neighborhood of Alfama to absorb the buzz of the town and enjoy traditional sardine feasts and pimba music (a catchy music genre known for its playful lyrics).

2. Explore Lisbon's beautiful botanical garden in full bloom

Spring is one of the best times to visit Lisbon’s lush gardens. Start your tour with the Lisbon Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the heart of the city, perched atop a hill in the trendy Príncipe Real neighborhood. This 4-hectare garden houses an impressive variety of plants from around the world. Nearby, visitors can enjoy charming cafes like Bettina Corallo, a cafe known for its artisanal chocolates, or Café Jardim da Estrela, located near the Estrela Garden. Or continue your tour of nature with a stop at the National Museum of Natural History.

Address:

R. da Escola Politécnica 58, 1250-102 Lisbon.

Opening hours:

Open daily, 10:00 AM-17:00 PM.

3. Explore Lx Factory’s creative hub

Located in Lisbon's Alcântara district, Lx Factory occupies a repurposed 19th-century industrial complex. This creative space houses unique shops, restaurants, and art spaces in former warehouses. It’s a great opportunity to nab accessories, art, and gifts made by local artists. Key attractions include the Ler Devagar bookstore and Rio Maravilha, a rooftop bar and restaurant which offers views of the Tagus River. If you’ve yet to see the nearby Belém Tower, you’ll also want to take advantage of your proximity to the famed fortification.

Address:

R. Rodrigues de Faria 103, 1300-501 Lisbon.

Opening hours:

Opening hours vary.

4. Embark on a sailing tour of Lisbon

Spring is an ideal time for a boat tour, a scenic way to appreciate both the Tagus river and Lisbon’s landmarks from a unique vantage point. Get up close and personal to the 25th of April Bridge, whose stark red color has long drawn comparisons to San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Or take in Belém Tower the way visitors centuries ago once did — as a ceremonial gateway to the city. This season is ideal for experiencing the river’s tranquil waters, with longer daylight hours allowing for extended cruises.

5. Celebrate Lisbon's medley of culture and food festivals

Spring in Lisbon makes its entrance known through numerous festivals showcasing the city's traditions and creativity. The Lisbon Fish and Flavours Festival, for one, highlights Lisbon’s maritime heritage in the most delicious way, including tastings of sardine pie, smoked skewered eel, and salted codfish, all prepared by top chefs. If you’re the type to travel with a suitcase full of books, you might enjoy the Lisbon Book Fair, where you’ll find novel activities such as a “reading consultancy” offering bespoke book suggestions, book signings, and more. Don’t forget to check out Arco Lisboa for Lisbon’s own take on a contemporary art fair.

Address:

Jazz im Goethe-Garten, Campo dos Mártires da Pátria 37, 1169-016 Lisbon.

Lisbon Book Fair, Parque Eduardo VII, 1070-099 Lisbon.

Arco Lisboa, Av. da Índia 1300-598, Lisbon.

6. Enjoy Lisbon's spring views from scenic hilltop spots

Lisbon's seven hills provide panoramic city views, especially beautiful in spring when flowers bloom alongside the historic architecture. Embrace your inner explorer as you discover popular miradouros, or scenic spots, like Miradouro das Portas do Sol, with expansive views over Lisbon's old quarters, Miradouro de Santa Luzia, known for its charming tile-covered terraces overlooking the Alfama district, and Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, which showcases central Lisbon, the Baixa district, and São Jorge Castle.

7. Enjoying a picnic by the Tagus river

Spring is an ideal time for a picnic by the Tagus River where you can enjoy local specialties like nêspera (loquat fruit), favas (broad beans), and Vinho Verde wine. April 9th Garden (also known as Albertas garden) offers a cozy spot for quiet afternoons, while Parque do Tejo has a boardwalk offering views of Europe's longest bridge. Spring and summer bring longer days and better weather for enjoying the Tagus riverfront. Unlike rainy winters, these seasons are ideal for family outings with kids where everyone can take in the scenic views and enjoy the many nearby playgrounds.

Address:

April 9th Garden, National Museum of Ancient Art, R. das Janelas Verdes, 1200-870 Lisbon.

Parque Tejo, Passeio do Tejo, Lisbon.

Opening hours:

Open 24 hours

FAQ

1. How warm is Lisbon in spring?

In spring, temperatures in Lisbon typically range from 55 F (13 C) to 68 F (20 C), making it pleasantly warm for outdoor activities.

2. How long should one stay in Lisbon?

A long weekend in Lisbon can offer a taste of the city's highlights such as Belém, some of its scenic vistas, the historic Alfama district, and a sampling of local cuisine while immersing oneself in the city's unique ambiance.

3. Where can I see spring flowers in Lisbon?

Spring flowers can be seen in various locations throughout Lisbon, including the Botanical Garden, Jardim da Estrela, and public parks like Gulbenkian Gardens, which burst with color during the season.

4. What do you wear in Lisbon in spring?

For spring in Lisbon, it's best to bring clothes you can layer. The weather can change during the day, so pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings.

5. What is the purple flower in Lisbon?

The purple flowers you see in Lisbon are from Jacaranda trees. These trees bloom in spring, adding rich color to the city's historic streets.