Lisbon has become one of Europe's most visited capitals. June through September is warm and dry, with temperatures reaching 27C to 32C in July and August. The city is genuinely busy in summer; the beaches of Cascais and Sintra draw day-trippers and the Alfama and Belem districts fill with tourists. Book accommodation at least two months ahead for July and August. The popular Festas de Lisboa in June, particularly around the feast of St. Anthony on June 12 and 13, fills the Alfama neighbourhood with grilled sardine smoke, folk music, and street parties. May and October are the sweet spot: warm (18C to 24C), smaller crowds, and full access to all sites. April is pleasant for visits to Sintra's fairy-tale palaces and Cabo da Roca without summer queues. November through February is mild by northern European standards, 10C to 15C, with rain possible but manageable. Lisbon's light in winter, the fado music venues, and the city's cafe culture make it worthwhile even in the rainy season.