Portugal, Europe
Porto in February
Still rainy, still cheap. Carnival brings some color in the region.
The straight answer
February is a quiet, good-value month to visit Porto. Still rainy, still cheap. Carnival brings some color in the region.
- Weather
- Mild and wet, highs near 59F (15C)
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What February is like in Porto
February stays mild and rainy, with highs near 59F (15C). Crowds are thin, and prices remain low. Carnival brings a bit of color to the region, and the city runs normally, with cafes, markets, and museums all open. Streets are steep and cobbled, so wet days make for slippery walking.
It suits travelers who want a cheap, easy city break with good food and wine, and who can handle showers. Families will find the indoor sights enough for a few days. If you want to spend time outdoors or in the Douro Valley, spring and early autumn are much better, with May and September the standouts.
Make the most of February
What is especially good about Porto this month.
Mercado do Bolhao
The restored city market is a great rainy-day stop for local produce and snacks. Go in the morning when it is liveliest.
Palacio da Bolsa's Arab Room
The gilded room in the old stock exchange is visited by guided tour. Winter tours are small and relaxed.
Sao Bento's tile panels
The station hall's blue and white tiles are worth a slow look, and they are free to see.
What to pack for February
- A rain jacket
- Grippy, waterproof shoes
- Warm layers
- A compact umbrella
Our timing tip
Book Palacio da Bolsa tours for the afternoon, when showers are more likely, and remember many museums close on Mondays.
Book Porto for February.
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- Hotels for February
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PortoOpens a hotel search for Porto in February, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in PortoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in PortoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Porto for February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
Things to do in Porto
Ribeira and the Dom Luis I Bridge
Walk the upper deck at sunset for the classic view, then eat along the waterfront or cross into Gaia.
Port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia
Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, and others offer cellar tours and tastings. Book ahead in summer.
Livraria Lello
A famous neo-Gothic bookshop with a crimson staircase. Entry is ticketed and timed; the first slot beats the lines.
Torre dos Clerigos
The Baroque bell tower with a climb to one of the best views over the city.
Serralves Foundation
A contemporary art museum, an Art Deco villa, and large gardens west of the center.
Palacio da Bolsa
The 19th century stock exchange with its gilded Arab Room, visited by guided tour.
Beat the crowds
- Book Livraria Lello for the first time slot of the day. By late morning, the line wraps around the block in summer.
- Stay in Cedofeita, Bonfim, or Boavista rather than the Ribeira for quieter nights and more local restaurants.
- Visit the Douro Valley on a weekday and go by train or with a small tour to avoid the big coach groups.
- Walk the Ribeira and bridge early in the morning. Cruise and tour groups arrive later in the day.
Know before you go
- Porto's major sights, port lodges, and museums are open all year. Winter hours are sometimes shorter.
- Some Douro Valley quintas and river cruises reduce operations in winter; check before planning a winter valley trip.
- Many museums close on Mondays. Public holidays like June 24 (Sao Joao) close many businesses in the city.
- Some restaurants close on Sundays, especially family-run places outside the tourist core.
Porto in February, quick answers
Is February a good time to visit Porto?
February is a quiet, good-value month to visit Porto. Still rainy, still cheap. Carnival brings some color in the region.
What is the weather like in Porto in February?
Mild and wet, highs near 59F (15C).
Is Porto crowded in February?
February is one of the quieter months in Porto; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Porto.
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