Can you tan in Portugal in May?

In May the average maximum temperature is 25 degrees during the day. These are gorgeous summer temperatures where you can hit the beach and go tanning. The sea water is about 17 degrees Celsius, so do get a cold and refreshing dip in between your tanning sessions.



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Seasonality plays a part: May through August are typically the strongest months, UV-exposure-wise. But, as the Sun Safety Alliance states, “UV rays reach Earth every day—including wintertime. Snow can reflect 85% to 90% of the sun's UV rays.” So, lather up the SPF year round.

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If, however, you want to go swimming and sunbathing every day, and enjoy nightlife and other touristy activities, then it's best to come between May and September – October. April weather is perfect for exploring the coastline of Algarve, but not always warm enough for sunbathing and beaches.

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In the north of the country, you can expect highs of 54°F (12°C), though some showers should still be expected. It's balmier and drier as you move further south to Lisbon, where highs around this time can reach 72°F (22°C).

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Sea temperatures, which range from 18 to 20°C, are still not suitable for swimming. The average daytime temperature in Lisbon is around 22°C during this month, while nights do not go below 13°C. Porto sees temperature shooting up to 20°C during the daytime, while evenings see the mercury drop to 12°C.

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Casual attire (e.g. barefoot, beachwear) is inappropriate in public and can make one seem unsophisticated. Similarly, it is important to speak respectfully and politely. Portuguese place high importance on being polite. Reciprocating this politeness will be appreciated by your Portuguese counterpart.

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The hottest place is Portugal in May is Évora (24ºC) in the beautiful Alentejo region between Lisbon and the Algarve. Both Lisbon (22ºC) and Faro (22ºC) on the Algarve coast will feel warm in May, with temperatures likely to reach the high 20s.

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On the coast and especially in the tourist resorts of the Algarve, dress is far more casual. Shorts, t-shirts and camisoles are perfectly acceptable. In the summer wear plenty of sunscreen (we love the Riemann P20 range for 10 hour protection) and a sunhat. Pack sunglasses whatever time of year you go.

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How Often Does It Rain in May? During May, Lisbon will feature about 17 mostly sunny, 4 partly sunny, and about 10 mostly cloudy days. You can also expect that 9-10 days will record some rainfall. However, only about 5 days record at least 1 mm (0.04 inches) or more, and only 2 days will see 10 mm (0.4 inches) or more.

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It's balmier and drier as you move further south to Lisbon, where highs around this time can reach 72°F (22°C). Beach days get likelier in May as temperatures in the Algarve, in Portugal's south, hit up to 72°F (25°C).

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Shorts are fine on the beach, but if you wear them around the city, you'll quickly brand yourself as a tourist. At nicer restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you'll want to follow the local lead and dress things up a bit.

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