Santa Cruz do Douro Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Santa Cruz do Douro.
Climate overview of Santa Cruz do Douro
The climate in Santa Cruz do Douro, Portugal, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 27°C (81°F) in August to 12°C (54°F) in January.
The city has a wet climate, receiving around 1324 mm (52 in) of rainfall per year. Despite the high annual total, it has a distinct dry season from July to August, with warm summers and cold winters. October is the wettest month. Sunshine peaks in July, when the city sees around 10.2 hours of sunshine per day.
Santa Cruz do Douro Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Santa Cruz do Douro - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Santa Cruz do Douro
In Santa Cruz do Douro, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. On average, daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 27°C (81°F) in August to a chilly 12°C (54°F) in January.
Nighttime temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in August to 3°C (37°F) in January.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Santa Cruz do Douro
Santa Cruz do Douro experiences significant rainfall throughout the year, averaging 1324 mm (52 in) of precipitation annually. The seasons in Santa Cruz do Douro bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, October, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 171 mm (6.7 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month, July, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 28 mm (1.1 in) over 7 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Santa Cruz do Douro Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Santa Cruz do Douro
In Santa Cruz do Douro, summer days are longer and more sunny, with daily sunshine hours peaking at 10.2 hours in July. As the darker season arrives, the brightness of the sun becomes less. January sees a soft sun for only 4.1 hours per average day.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Santa Cruz do Douro by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Santa Cruz do Douro.
The city experiences its highest humidity in January, reaching 81%. In July, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 73%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Santa Cruz do Douro
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: June, July, August and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: July and August
- Fewest rainy days: July and August
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from July to August, with warm summers and cold winters
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Santa Cruz do Douro
What is the best time to visit Santa Cruz do Douro?
June, July, August and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Santa Cruz do Douro. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Santa Cruz do Douro has a distinct dry season from July to August, with warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Santa Cruz do Douro?
Daytime highs range from 12°C (54°F) in January to 27°C (81°F) in August. Nighttime lows range from 3°C (37°F) to 15°C (59°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Santa Cruz do Douro get?
Annual rainfall is around 1324 mm (52 in). October is the wettest month with 171 mm (6.7 in), while July is the driest with 28 mm (1.1 in).
How sunny is Santa Cruz do Douro?
Santa Cruz do Douro receives around 2,465 hours of sunshine per year. July is the sunniest month with 307 hours, while January is the cloudiest with just 122 hours. Overall, Santa Cruz do Douro enjoys abundant sunshine.
Santa Cruz do Douro 3-Day Forecast
Santa Cruz do Douro on the map
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