Lisbon in May is beautiful because it’s just before the big summer rush of tourists from June to August.
You have beautiful weather, so you can go to the beach without freezing and just enjoy the weather, sand, and cold water. The water is always cold in Lisbon and the beaches around.
May is also the perfect time to get some coffee outside, walk down Avenida da Liberdade to do some shopping, and just relax in the many parks.
This is the list you need for your May to Lisbon.
10 Things to Do in Lisbon in May
I could make a list of 40 things, and probably more, but I’ve tried to limit myself so you have a curated list of the best things to do in Lisbon in May.
1. Brunch on Mother’s Day
The first Sunday in May is Mother’s Day, so if you’re in Lisbon with your mom, why not celebrate it with brunch?
My go-to brunch place is Dear Breakfast. They make incredible food, coffees, and pastries and are good at changing their menu.
Bread and Friends is another great choice if you want more local brunch.
Here is a full list of my favorite brunch places in Lisbon.
2. Celebrate Workers’ Day
The first day of May is Worker’s Day, and it’s a public holiday in Portugal. If you should be in doubt, it is celebrated.
Throughout the country, you can experience parades organized by the two Portuguese trade unions, Alameda D. Afonso Henriques (CGTP) and Belém Tower (UGT).
3. Indie Lisboa Film Festival
For 11 days, you can experience Indie Lisboa, a film festival celebrating the movie industry.
You can see documentaries, shorts, and experimental film exhibitions (Portuguese and foreign) of all genres.
It usually happens in the first 11 days of May, and it’s all over the city, with Sao Jorge Cinema being one of the centerpieces.
4. Lisbon Under Stars
Lisbon Under Stars is a show that happens in Carmo Convent, and it happens for multiple months, but that doesn’t stop you from experiencing it in May.
Can you imagine Carmo Convent, with no roof, covered with the star show? It looks incredible.
It costs from €15 to experience, and it’s well worth it.
5. Out Jazz Festival
From May to September, you can experience the Out Jazz Festival in multiple places.
You get to listen to jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop music in the public gardens of Lisbon, and it’s such a cool experience.
It starts at 5 pm every Sunday, and it’s completely free to attend.
In May, you can experience it in Parque Dos Poetas, west of Lisbon. However, this location has changed in recent years, so remember to check their website.
6. ARCO Lisboa
If you’re into contemporary art, this fair is for you.
ARCO Lisboa attracts international artists who show their art, which promises to impact the Portuguese contemporary art market.
7. Picnic in the Park
May is the perfect month for a picnic in one of the many parks around Lisbon. Jardim da Estrela is an incredible place to do this, but it could also be the park in Principe Real.
It’s such an amazing moment to sit down, relax, and enjoy the moment. Bring some nice food from the supermarket, and eat some food and drink some good wine while enjoying the weather.
It’s still not baking hot, so you can manage to sit in the sun and still enjoy a nice day in the park.
8. Enjoy Portuguese Cherries
May is the beginning of the cherry season in Portugal. You can try the early-season cherries at local fruit shops and supermarkets.
9. Enjoy Lisbon’s Floral Display
You really get to see the parks blossom in May, especially the purple trees known as Jacaranda Mimosifolia.
If you want to see these beautiful trees, I recommend exploring the streets of Saldanha.
10. Listen to Music in Chiado
In Chiado you have the oldest café called A Brasileira, it’s right in the center of Lisbon.
What I love about this place is that right next to it, you can see it from the outside seats; there are often performers either singing or dancing to music.
It’s such a vibe, and you get to enjoy your coffee or snack while seeing it at A Brasileira.
Weather in Lisbon in May
The average high temperature during the day is around 23°C (73°F), while the average low temperature at night is approximately 14°C (57°F).
If you take a day trip to Sintra, for example, the weather might be very different.
You won’t experience much rain in May, and I often experience much higher temperatures during that month.
What to Pack for Lisbon in May
Summer is here, so it’s time to pack dresses and shorts and prepare for the baking sun, which is amazing in Lisbon.
I recommend to pack the following at least:
- Sunglasses
- Sun protection
- Electric adapter
- Shorts
- Dresses
- Comfortable shoes and sandals
- An electric socket (For charging multiple devices)
- A backpack or tote bag for day trips
Here are the best things to do in Lisbon In October 2025
I’ll send you a list of the best things to do in October and every month moving forward from today.
It’s based on my personal experience of living and traveling around Lisbon for years. I’m sharing a lot of hidden gems.
Wrap-Up
Lisbon in May is just as beautiful as the many summer months about to come. The coldest months are officially over, and the average wind speeds are lowering.
You should get outside and really enjoy the warm weather. You can stay outside much longer now due to the warmer weather and many hours of daylight.
I love the outdoor activities in May, like picnics in the park, eating outside, and exploring Lisbon. You can also enjoy a beach day in May. The daily temperatures allow for it.
If you want my favorite beaches in Lisbon, get the list here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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