When and where to see shooting stars in Portugal?

Over the next few days, we'll have two meteor showers passing through the skies of Portugal:

  • Alpha Capricornids: This meteor shower reaches its peak on July 29th and 30th.
  • In August, you'll be able to witness the famous Perseid meteor shower, especially between August 12th and 13th, when the phenomenon will reach its peak.

If you don't want to miss a second of this natural spectacle, here are some of the best places in Portugal to watch, according to idealista.

  • Cabo Espichel, Serra de Sintra, or Alcochete;
  • Sintra, on August 2nd, will host a night hike departing from the Convento dos Capuchos. The event is already sold out, but the organizers advise bringing suitable footwear, water, appropriate but light clothing, a flashlight, and some snacks.
  • Lagoa de Óbidos, where Greentrekker is organizing a 13km hike under the Perseids peak on August 12th. This experience begins at 8:30 pm and will last four hours;
  • Madeira's mountainous areas: If you're in the Pearl of the Atlantic, the island's mountainous areas are excellent spots for observing shooting stars, thanks to the clear skies and altitude;

What time can I see the meteor shower?

As for the ideal time? You can watch the July and August meteor showers between midnight and 5:30 am. Before that, the sky isn't yet dark enough, and after that, you'll see the first rays of sunlight.