Visiting the Algarve in April

The weather in April can be very unpredictable both in the Algarve and across the whole of Portugal. Although most weather reports don’t record a noticeable increase in rain, April is known for being a wet month. There’s even a Portuguese saying for it: em Abril águas mil (literally: in April, a thousand waters). 

If you’re lucky with the weather, though, this is a great month to visit the Algarve. It’s the start of “the season” here which means many of the bars and restaurants that were closed for the winter are now open again. And, because it’s not that popular a month to visit, accommodation prices are a lot lower than what they will be in the summer. 

Reasons to visit the Algarve in April

• The bars, restaurants, and resorts down by the coast are starting to swing into action but aren’t too crowded.
• Hotel prices are still low, even for those travelling during the Easter Break. Some hotels will be 50% what they would cost in July and August.
• The weather is warm and sunny but not scorching hot, so you can still enjoy a few hikes and rounds of golf if lounging on the beach isn’t your thing.
• You can expect eight or nine hours of that beautiful Algarve sunshine every day.

What to Pack

• Lightweight Clothing: If it isn’t raining, April days in the Algarve are typically warm and sunny, making it ideal for wearing t-shirts and even shorts during the daytime.
• Light Jackets or Sweaters: While the Algarve generally enjoys mild temperatures in April, evenings and occasional overcast days can bring cooler weather. Having a light jacket or sweater with you allows for layering to stay comfortably warm.
• Rain Gear: April is known for at least the occasional shower, so it’s a good idea to pack a raincoat or carry an umbrella just in case.
• Sunscreen: Although the peak of summer warmth hasn’t arrived yet, the sun can still be strong during the day in April. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection to shield your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
• Comfortable Shoes: The Algarve is perfect for exploring on foot, with charming towns and villages waiting to be discovered. Ensure you have comfortable and durable shoes suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It’s advisable to avoid high heels, as Portugal’s cobblestone streets may not be heel-friendly. Instead, opt for a comfortable pair of flat-soled shoes.
• Layered Clothing: While April weather in the Algarve is generally warm, it can be variable, with alternating sunshine and clouds throughout the day. To stay comfortable in changing conditions, bring lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove, especially during the cooler evenings.

What’s on in the Algarve in April?

FIESA Sand Sculpture Festival

Fiesa, the giant sandcastle festival, takes place every year between March and October. The festival attracts artists from Portugal and all around the world, who travel to the Algarve to take part in the event.

The theme varies from year-to-year so, if you’ve been before, there’ll be something new to see.

For more information about FIESA, dates, and ticket prices, visit fiesa.org.

Festival Al-Buhera

Festival Al-Buhera takes place in Albufeira. The festival features market stalls selling local produce such as food products, crafts, and locally-made alcohol as well as live music and food stalls.

Admission is free, and the festival usually takes place in the evenings towards the end of April. For more information can be found on Facebook.com/festivaldalbuhera

Liberation Day (25th April)

This public holiday celebrates a very special moment in Portuguese history, when Salazar’s Estado Novo dictatorship was overthrown on the 25th April 1974. The military coup was bloodless, and known as the Carnation Revolution. It brought nearly 50 years of the autocratic rule to an end.

In Albufeira, you can expect firework displays and street performances, and in Lagos, the day begins with canons and ends with a fireworks display. The biggest celebrations are normally to be found in Faro, where the celebrations start on the 24th and continue through the next day.

Weather in the Algarve in April

In March, the temperatures in the Algarve typically range from 16°C to 20°C (61°F to 68°F), providing a comfortably warm but not excessively hot environment. While there is a possibility of occasional rain, with an average of only eight rainy days throughout the month, it’s unlikely that your entire holiday will be affected by bad weather. It’s advisable to pack a jacket and cardigan for the evenings, as the temperature tends to drop noticeably after the sun sets, especially if you’ve been enjoying the poolside during the day.

Have you visited the Algarve in April? Would you recommend visiting at that time of year? Share your thoughts, tips, and reviews by leaving a comment below.