Weather & Climate

Setúbal is located on the Atlantic coast in a Mediterranean climate zone (Köppen classification: Csa). Mild winters, hot dry summers, and over 2,800 sunshine hours per year make the city comfortable for living and visiting virtually year-round.

Monthly Temperatures

Data based on IPMA climate normals (1981–2010) for the Setúbal / Estação de Fruticultura station.

Precipitation

Annual precipitation: approximately 620–750 mm. The rainy season runs from October to March; summers (July–August) are virtually rain-free.

Sunshine Hours

Total: approximately 2,800–3,100 sunshine hours per year — one of the sunniest regions in Europe.

Sea Water Temperature

Water in the sheltered coves of Arrábida is usually 1–2°C warmer than on the open Atlantic coast.

Best Time to Visit

Beach (June–September)

The hottest period: July and August (up to 30°C air, 20–21°C water). The beaches of Arrábida and Tróia are the region’s finest. August is peak season — book accommodation in advance.

Hiking & Active Recreation (April–June, September–October)

Ideal temperatures for walking the Arrábida trails (20–25°C). Spring is especially beautiful: wild orchids and lavender bloom in the Serra da Arrábida.

Sightseeing (March–June, September–November)

Comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists. March–April is an excellent time to visit monasteries, the Tróia ruins, and museums.

Festivals & Gastronomy (Year-round)

• June: Santos Populares — sardines and folk festivities
• July–August: Semana da Sardinha, Moscatel Festival
• September: Vindimas in Palmela — grape harvest
• December–January: Círculo de Jazz

Winter (December–February)

Mild but rainy. Temperatures rarely drop below 5°C. Winter is the best time for a quiet exploration of the city without crowds.

What to Pack

Summer (June–September)

• Light clothing, shorts, sandals
• Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, sunglasses
• Swimsuit, beach towel
• Light jacket for evenings (Atlantic breeze can be cool)

Spring & Autumn (March–May, October–November)

• Layers: T-shirt + light sweater + windbreaker
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Umbrella or rain jacket (especially October–November)
• Sunscreen (the sun is strong even in spring)

Winter (December–February)

• Warm jacket (a heavy down parka is unnecessary — medium insulation is enough)
• Waterproof shoes
• Umbrella is essential
• Layers: temperatures can swing from 8°C in the morning to 16°C by midday

Climate Characteristics

• Nortada wind: a northern wind common in summer along the coast. It cools beach temperatures but can be strong — hold on to your hats
• Sea fog: morning fog (nevoeiro) is typical in spring, usually clearing by noon
• Heat waves: in July–August, extreme heat periods (35–40°C) are possible, caused by Saharan winds. They typically last 3–5 days
• Arrábida microclimate: the Serra da Arrábida mountains create a sheltered zone — the coves on the southern slope have warmer water and calmer winds

See Also

• Arrábida Natural Park — 1,450 plant species in a Mediterranean climate
• Galapinhos Beach — Europe’s best beach (2017)
• Arrábida Trails — hiking routes
• Transport — how to reach the beaches and natural parks