Lisbon in February: Weather, Events, & Things To Do

Visit Lisbon in February and experience the city at its most relaxed and rewarding. This month offers mild weather, lighter crowds, and better value on flights, hotels, and activities, which makes it one of the smartest times of year to visit Portugal’s capital.

Lisbon is one of Europe’s oldest cities, built across seven hills overlooking the Tagus River. Its history stretches back thousands of years and is visible everywhere, from Moorish fortifications to grand riverfront squares shaped after the 1755 earthquake.

Even in February, you will find the widest selection of tours in Lisbon. Many travelers also take advantage of well-priced Lisbon travel packages that bundle hotels, experiences, and day trips.

With fewer crowds and a slower pace, it is also easier to follow thoughtfully planned Lisbon itineraries. Even if your focus is culture, food, or nearby excursions, February makes it simple to explore the city without feeling rushed.

What To Wear in Lisbon in February

Packing for Lisbon in February is all about flexibility. Temperatures are mild, but days can shift between cool mornings, warmer afternoons, and damp conditions, especially when walking around the city’s hills. Here’s a list of what you should wear in Lisbon in February:

• Use layers, not heavy winter gear: Light sweaters or long-sleeve tops paired with a medium-weight jacket work best for changing temperatures throughout the day.
• Wear practical walking shoes: Sturdy sneakers or flat boots with good grip are essential. Avoid heels—Lisbon’s cobblestone streets are uneven and can be slippery, especially after wet weather.
• Bring light rain protection: A compact umbrella or a water-resistant trench coat is usually enough for February conditions.

9. Attend the Antena 2 Music Festival

One of the most rewarding things to do in Lisbon in February is attend the Antena 2 Music Festival. Organized by Antena 2, Portugal’s national classical and cultural radio station, the festival brings the station’s on-air programming to the live stage, turning Lisbon’s historic theaters into intimate concert venues.

The program centers on classical and contemporary orchestral music but often expands into world music, jazz, choral works, and traditional Portuguese philharmonic bands. Many editions also include short “Palavras de Bolso” sketches for children and cultural talks, giving a thoughtful, community-focused feel.

Concerts are typically held at the Sao Luiz Teatro Municipal in Chiado or at the Centro Cultural de Belem. One of the biggest advantages of visiting Lisbon in February is that many of these performances are free or very low-cost, though tickets are limited and often require same-day pickup.

8. Shop the Winter Sales in Lisbon

If you are looking for a practical reason to visit Lisbon in February, the winter sales, known locally as Saldos, are a major draw. February is the final month of Portugal’s winter clearance season, when prices drop to their lowest point of the year, and retailers make room for spring collections.

By early February, most shops have moved into their second or final markdown phase. Discounts often reach up to 70 percent off, especially on winter clothing, leather goods, and home decor. Some of the best places to shop include:

• Avenida da Liberdade: You’ll find luxury brands and designer boutiques at a fraction of their usual prices.
• Chiado & Baixa: Spot with high-street favorites like Zara and Massimo Dutti, along with traditional Portuguese shops.
• Vasco da Gama & Colombo: Large indoor shopping malls, ideal on cooler or unsettled February days.

One of the smartest purchases during the Saldos is Portuguese leather. Portugal is known for its high-quality footwear and leather accessories, and February is the best time to find boots, shoes, or jackets at an excellent value.

As an insider tip, look for shop window signs that read “Oportunidades” or “Última Baixa,” which indicate final markdowns. Since this is the end of the season, popular sizes sell quickly, so if you find something you love, it is best not to wait.

7. Ride Lisbon’s Historic Trams and Funiculars

Lisbon’s vintage yellow trams are a defining part of the city and one of the most memorable ways to navigate its steep hills. Crowds are lighter in Lisbon in February than in summer, but these routes remain popular, so a bit of planning helps.

A ticket to Lisbon's Tram 28 gives you access to the city’s most famous line, and February works in your favor, as you are far more likely to find a window seat. Skip boarding at Martim Moniz, where queues still form, and start instead from Campo de Ourique for a better experience.

6. Visit the World’s Oldest Bookstore

Logo of Livraria Bertrand. Source: official Facebook page.

Tucked into the Chiado district, Livraria Bertrand is a must-stop for book lovers visiting Lisbon in February. Founded in 1732, it holds the official Guinness World Record as the oldest operating bookstore in the world and remains an active part of the city’s cultural life.

Stepping inside feels like entering a literary time capsule. The bookstore unfolds through a series of interconnected rooms with vaulted ceilings and dark wooden shelves, spaces once frequented by writers such as Fernando Pessoa and Eca de Queiros.

One of the best souvenirs in Lisbon comes with a purchase here. If you buy a book, simply ask the cashier to stamp it. They will add an official embossment, available in English or Portuguese, certifying that your book was purchased at the world’s oldest bookstore.

Because the shop is surprisingly deep and indoors, it makes an ideal refuge during a February rain shower. At the back, you will find Cafe Bertrand, where you can sit with a coffee and your new book. As you walk through the store, look down at the floor for a built-in timeline that traces nearly three centuries of Portuguese history.

5. Explore the National Tile Museum in Lisbon

If there is one museum that captures the visual identity of Portugal, it is the National Tile Museum. Dedicated to the azulejo, the iconic ceramic tile seen across the country, the museum follows the art form’s development from the fifteenth century to the present day.

The museum occupies the former Convent of Madre de Deus, founded in 1509. The highlight is the Great Panorama of Lisbon, a tile panel measuring about 75 feet (23 meters) in length. Created around 1738, it shows the city’s skyline before the devastating earthquake of 1755.

The collection also includes modern works, showing how tile art continues to evolve in contemporary Portuguese design. Before leaving, consider stopping at the museum cafe, often praised as one of the most beautiful museum restaurants in Europe, with traditional tiles and views over a quiet courtyard.

If you want to go beyond the museum, join a Lisbon tiles tour to see azulejos around the city. An azulejos tile workshop in Lisbon is a good option if you prefer a hands-on experience and want to paint your own tile.

4. Spend Time at Oceanario de Lisboa

Consistently ranked among the best aquariums in the world, the Oceanario de Lisboa is one of the most rewarding things to do in Lisbon in February. Located in the modern Parque das Nacoes district, it offers a fully indoor, weather-proof experience that is well-suited to breezy or damp winter days.

An Oceanario de Lisboa ticket will grant you access to the main attraction: the Global Ocean tank. This 1.3-million-gallon (5-million-liter) centerpiece brings together rays, sharks, and the rare sunfish in a single, immersive space.

Around the central tank, four different marine habitats represent major ocean regions. You can move from the cold waters of the North Atlantic to the Antarctic penguin habitat, continue through the Temperate Pacific with its playful sea otters, and end in the warm colors of the Tropical Indian Ocean.

Do not miss Forests Underwater by Takashi Amano. This 131-foot-long (40-meter-long) freshwater aquarium blends aquatic life and artistic design, creating the impression of a living landscape rather than a traditional exhibit.

3. Enjoy Lisbon’s Golden Viewpoints (Miradouros)

Lisbon is often called the City of Seven Hills, and its miradouros, public viewpoints, are some of the best places to take in the city from above. February’s clearer air sharpens the view, which makes pastel buildings, red-tiled roofs, and the Tagus River stand out.

Some of the most rewarding viewpoints to visit in Lisbon in February include:

• Miradouro da Graca: A classic sunset spot beside the Graca Church, with wide views over Sao Jorge Castle and the river. In February, sunset falls between about 17:50 and 18:30, so you can catch the golden hour and still have time for dinner or Fado afterward.
• Miradouro de Santa Luzia: Often considered Lisbon’s most romantic viewpoint, with the lush greenery and blue-and-white azulejo tiles. It looks out over the winding streets of Alfama, where church domes and the river create a calm, photogenic scene in the cooler winter light.
• Miradouro da Senhora do Monte: The highest viewpoint in the city, reached by a short uphill walk from Graca. It is quieter, more spacious, and offers sweeping views across Lisbon all the way toward the Atlantic.

All of these viewpoints are free to visit. To stay warm while waiting for sunset, grab a coffee or a glass of wine from the small kiosks at the miradouros and enjoy one of the most rewarding things to do in Lisbon in February.

2. Experience Traditional Fado Music in Lisbon

To understand the cultural soul of Portugal, spending an evening listening to fado is essential. This expressive, melancholic music, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, is traditionally performed in small, dimly lit taverns, especially in the Alfama neighborhood.

February is a particularly good time to experience Fado. With fewer crowds, performances feel more intimate and closely tied to local tradition.

You can experience a fado night in Lisbon with dinner in a fado house, where music and food are part of the same ritual. Joining an Alfama tour and live fado with traditional dinner also works well in February.

1. Celebrate Carnival in Lisbon

If you are visiting Lisbon in February, Carnival is the month’s biggest highlight. From February 13 to 17, 2026, the city shifts from its calm winter rhythm to a lively, playful atmosphere filled with costumes, satire, and street celebrations.

You can catch organized events like the Chapito Parade, a long-running, circus-inspired procession that winds through historic areas such as Alfama and Castelo. It adds a theatrical touch to the city’s otherwise free-form celebrations.

As evening arrives, the focus moves to Bairro Alto and Cais do Sodre, where informal street parties form in narrow lanes and open squares. Music spills out from bars, and dancing continues late into the night to a mix of Brazilian samba and Portuguese pop.

Fat Tuesday, known locally as Terca-feira de Carnaval, marks the final and most energetic day of Carnival. The name reflects a European tradition of celebration before the start of Lent. Although it is not a national holiday, many locals take the afternoon off.

Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa) in February

Rising above the Baixa district, the Santa Justa Lift is one of Lisbon’s most recognizable landmarks. This neo-Gothic iron structure's original purpose was practical, connecting the lower streets of Baixa with the higher Largo do Carmo, but it has since become a symbol of the city.

Even in February, when crowds are lighter than in summer, you may still face a wait of around twenty minutes for an ascent that lasts less than a minute. Visiting in winter improves the odds, but it is still one of Lisbon’s most visited attractions.

The real appeal lies in the details and the view. The ornate ironwork features delicate filigree that looks closer to lace than heavy metal, and the observation deck offers sweeping views over Rossio Square, the Baixa rooftops, and Sao Jorge Castle in the distance.

If the line at street level feels too long, there is an easy alternative. Walk uphill to the Carmo Convent and access the lift’s upper walkway from the back. You will enjoy the same panoramic views without waiting in line or paying for a ticket.

Praca do Comercio (Terreiro do Paco) in February

Praca do Comercio is Lisbon’s grand riverfront square and the city’s historic front door. In the past, marble steps led directly to the Tagus River, welcoming royalty and foreign dignitaries arriving by ship. Today, it remains one of Europe’s most impressive public squares, framed on three sides by yellow Pombaline buildings.

The scale and setting are striking, especially with the river stretching out in front of you. In February, the open layout can feel windy, so it works best as a place for a brisk walk and a quick stop for photos, including the bronze equestrian statue of King Jose I, before moving into the sheltered arcades.

One of the highlights is the Arco da Rua Augusta, the triumphal arch at the northern end of the square. For a small fee, you can climb to the top for views over the Tagus River and the orderly grid of Baixa. February’s clear air often makes these views particularly sharp.

Under the northern arches, you will find Martinho da Arcada, Portugal’s oldest cafe, founded in 1782 and closely associated with the poet Fernando Pessoa. It is an ideal place to step inside, warm up with a coffee, and take in nearly two and a half centuries of Lisbon’s literary history before continuing your walk.

Sao Jorge Castle (Castelo de Sao Jorge) in February

A Sao Jorge Castle ticket opens access to Lisbon’s most prominent hilltop landmark, offering sweeping views and a direct link to the city’s medieval history. This Moorish fortress dates back to the 11th century, and walking along its thick stone walls and towers feels like stepping into a different era of Lisbon’s history.

From the elevated terraces and battlements, you get a sweeping perspective over the Tagus River and the terracotta rooftops. You can explore Sao Jorge Castle with an audio guide for added historical context, or choose a guided tour of Sao Jorge Castle for deeper insight.

If wind or rain sets in, head inside the Tower of Ulysses, which houses a Camera Obscura. This optical system uses lenses and mirrors to project a real-time, panoramic view of Lisbon onto a darkened screen, offering a sheltered way to enjoy the city from above.

Sao Jorge Castle is also a strong sunset option in February. With closing times typically extending into the early evening, you can watch the sun drop toward the river as the city takes on warm golden tones, provided the weather cooperates.

Belem Tower (Torre de Belem) in February

Standing at the mouth of the Tagus River, Belem Tower is one of Lisbon’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of Portugal’s Age of Discovery. Built in the early 16th century, it functioned as both a defensive fortress and a ceremonial gateway for departing ships.

The interior is compact, with narrow staircases that can feel tight at busy times. Even so, the tower’s historical importance and Manueline architecture, defined by Portuguese maritime details, make it worth visiting.

The surrounding park is a pleasant place to enjoy a pasteis de Belem, the iconic Portuguese custard tart made at the historic bakery just behind the tower. You can take Lisbon’s Age of Discoveries tour or an e-bike tour of Belem to explore the area’s maritime landmarks at an easy pace.

Jeronimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jeronimos) in February

Often considered the finest example of Portuguese architecture, the Jeronimos Monastery is a highlight of any visit to Lisbon. The wealth of the spice trade funded this UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as the most complete expression of the Manueline style.

February is an especially rewarding month, as fewer visitors and softer winter light create a calm, almost hushed atmosphere. In the cloisters, the light reflects gently off the pale stone, which makes it easier to appreciate the scale, symmetry, and finely carved details of the structure.

Part of the monastery, you can enter the Church of Santa Maria and find the tombs of Vasco da Gama and the poet Luis de Camoes, surrounded by elaborate stonework. You can join a Belem walking tour with a monastery access, which adds historical context and simplifies access to one of Lisbon’s top landmarks.

Carmo Convent (Convento do Carmo) in February

Carmo Convent is one of Lisbon’s most atmospheric landmarks and an outstanding choice for a February visit. Once the city’s largest Gothic church, its roof collapsed during the 1755 earthquake while Mass was underway.

What remains today is a dramatic open-air structure, where tall stone arches and pillars frame the sky. Rather than being rebuilt or removed, the ruins were preserved as a memorial to the earthquake.

Walking through the exposed nave offers a powerful sense of history, which continues inside the Archaeological Museum housed in the former altar area. Its collection includes Roman mosaics, Visigothic stonework, and even Egyptian and South American mummies.

Sintra

Sintra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels especially atmospheric in winter. In February, a Pena Palace ticket allows you to explore the palace and its gardens at a calmer pace, along with Quinta da Regaleira, without heavy queues.

Before leaving, stop at Casa Piriquita to order travesseiros, the town’s signature flaky almond-filled pastries. Many visitors opt for a Sintra day tour from Lisbon, which simplifies transport and timing during winter conditions.

Sintra is often about 9 F (5 C) colder than Lisbon and can be foggy even when the city is sunny. Always check the Sintra forecast and bring an extra layer before heading there.

Cascais

Just a 40-minute scenic train ride from Lisbon, Cascais is a former royal summer retreat that retains a refined feel year-round. One of the most striking stops is Boca do Inferno, or Hell’s Mouth. A roughly 20-minute coastal walk leads to this dramatic sea arch, where winter swells crash into limestone cliffs.

For a sheltered cultural stop, head to the Citadel Art District inside the walls of the Cidadela de Cascais. This 16th-century fortress now houses contemporary art galleries and studios. Another worthwhile spot is the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum, which is one of the most photographed spots in the area.

Cascais also fits easily into broader day plans beyond the city. Some choose a Sintra and Cascais small-group day trip from Lisbon, which allows time in both destinations without needing to coordinate trains, schedules, or return logistics on a winter day.

Nazare

Nazare is a world-famous site for big-wave surfers, and February is when its reputation peaks. The North Canyon effect funnels Atlantic swells toward the coast, producing some of the largest surfable waves on the planet.

The dramatic cliffside views center on the Forte de Sao Miguel Arcanjo, the lighthouse and fort where many of the iconic big-wave photos are taken. For a small entry fee, you can step inside to see a display of surfboards donated by legendary riders, including Sebastian Steudtner and Maya Gabeira.

Nazare is sometimes paired with nearby historic towns on longer excursions. Some travelers choose a Nazare and Obidos tour from Lisbon as a convenient way to see this stretch of the coast and the surrounding countryside without planning the logistics themselves.

Evora

Evora is a compact, walled city that works like a living museum of Portuguese history. It sits in the dry plains of the Alentejo and often feels sunnier and less humid than the Lisbon coast. For this reason, some travelers choose a Lisbon to Evora private tour as a comfortable winter day trip inland.

The historic center is marked by the Roman Temple of Diana, whose Corinthian columns are among the best-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. One of the most striking sights is the Capela dos Ossos, or Chapel of Bones, located inside the Church of St. Francis.

Built in the seventeenth century, the chapel is lined with the bones and skulls of around 5,000 monks. The inscription above the entrance, which translates to “We bones that are here, for yours we wait,” gives the visit a somber, reflective tone.

Is Lisbon expensive in February?

Not at all. In fact, February is arguably the most budget-friendly month to visit. Accommodation and flights to Lisbon are at their lowest prices of the year. Many high-end hotels offer significant discounts, and you can enjoy gourmet meals at popular restaurants without the "peak season" premiums.

Is Carnival a public holiday in Lisbon in February?

Terca-feira de Carnaval (Fat Tuesday) is technically an optional holiday in Portugal, but it is widely observed. In 2026, it falls on February 17th. While most shops and restaurants in Lisbon remain open, government offices and some smaller local businesses may close.

Can I see fado in Lisbon in February?

Yes! Fado is a year-round tradition. In fact, February is the best time to experience it because the small taverns in Alfama and Mouraria are less crowded, which makes the "silence" during the performance feel even more intimate and powerful.

Are the winter sales still on in Lisbon in February?

Yes. February marks the final phase of the winter sales, known locally as saldos. Many stores often offer between 50 and 70 percent off.

Avenida da Liberdade is best for luxury brands, while Baixa and Chiado offer high-street fashion and Portuguese labels. It is also an excellent time to buy Portuguese leather shoes and bags.

What is there to do in Lisbon in February around Valentine's Day?

On Valentine's Day, or Dia dos Namorados, Lisbon’s viewpoints, historic neighborhoods, and candlelit restaurants create a romantic setting. Sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte or dinner in a Chiado courtyard are popular choices. Reservations should be made at least a week in advance for this date.

What should I not miss seasonally in Lisbon in February?

February is orange season, when Portuguese oranges are at their sweetest. Ordering a sumo de laranja natural, freshly squeezed orange juice, at breakfast is a simple way to enjoy local produce and add a vitamin C boost during winter travel.

Are day trips from Lisbon worth it in February?

Yes. February is an excellent month for day trips and excursions from Lisbon. Sintra is less crowded, Nazare often has big waves, Cascais feels calmer, and inland destinations like Evora tend to be sunnier than the coast. Lighter traffic and fewer tour buses make these trips more relaxed than later in the year.