Weather in Algarve in July

How July compares

July is the 2nd warmest month of the year in Algarve and ranks 53rd of 134 destinations we compare for July - see where else is hot in July. Within Portugal it is 4th of 13 (Portugal in July). Against London's average high of 21.8°C in July, Algarve is 7.3°C warmer by day and 5.6°C warmer at night.

Daytime and night-time in July

The typical July day in Algarve peaks at 29.1°C, but that is an average: the warmest 10% of days reach 32.7°C or more. About 91% of days top 25°C and 1 in 3 pass 30°C. Nights average 19.1°C; one night in ten drops to 16.7°C or lower, so pack a layer for evenings. Between 1991 and 2020 the hottest July day here reached 41.7°C (1991-07-14) and the coldest night 13.7°C (1997-07-03).

Rain in July

Dry (3 rainy days or fewer): about 0 days with 1 mm or more, 1 mm in total. Year to year it varies a lot - the wettest July was 1997 with 18 mm, the driest 1992 with 0 mm. Humidity averages 59%.

Sea temperature in July

The sea averages 20.0°C - bracing (18-22°c). Depending on the year it ranges from 18.7°C to 21.3°C. For the warmest sea here, come in August (20.7°C).

Sunshine and daylight

Around 12.7 hours of sunshine a day (estimated from cloud cover), 14.3 hours of daylight: the sun rises about 06:24 and sets about 20:51 local time in mid-July. Average cloud cover is 11%.

Is July a good time to visit Algarve?

Yes - it is one of the better months: hot days, little rain and long sunny days. The best months for Algarve on our scoring are July, August, June; months averaging 25°C or more: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep.

Reliable heat, with some hotter days

July is among the Algarve’s warmest months, so pack for heat rather than mild summer weather. Days reach 25°C on 91% of occasions, while 39% reach 30°C. That makes early starts sensible for walks or anything strenuous, leaving the middle of the day for shade and a slower pace. The hottest days can be more demanding: the warmest 10% reach 32.7°C or above. Lightweight, loose clothing, sun protection and regular drinks should be part of your routine. If you find sustained heat tiring, July is less suited to an activity-heavy holiday than a relaxed trip with plenty of breaks.

Very little rain and long sunny days

Rain is unlikely to be the deciding factor for a July trip. The monthly average is about 0 rainy days, which makes outdoor plans a reasonable default, though it is not a promise of completely dry weather. There are about 12.7 hours of sunshine within 14.3 hours of daylight, giving you plenty of room to move activities away from the hottest part of the day. A hat and sunglasses are more useful priorities than bulky wet-weather clothing. The main trade-off is exposure: long, sunny days are welcome for a relaxed holiday, but you will need to be deliberate about shade and sun protection.

Warm air does not mean warm water

The sea is the main reason to temper expectations. Its July average is 20°C, with a year-to-year range of 19°C to 21°C, so expect a bracing entry rather than bath-like warmth. That may feel refreshing after time in the heat, but travellers who dislike cool water should not choose July solely for long, comfortable swims. Back on land, average night lows of around 19°C mean the heat generally eases after daytime highs. A light layer is still sensible for sitting out late, particularly if you feel the cold. Pack mainly summer clothes, but leave room for something to put on after swimming.