When does winter time start?
With the arrival of autumn comes the change to winter time, scheduled for Sunday, 26 October 2025. On this date,
the clocks will go back one hour: in mainland Portugal and Madeira, from 02:00 to 01:00; in the Azores, from 01:00 to 00:00.
This transition provides an extra hour of rest on the night of the change but brings shorter days and less natural light, altering the daily routine of millions of people.
Winter time is adopted to align human activity with the solar rhythm and the biological clock. With fewer daylight hours at the end of the day, the body tends to adjust its cycle of sleep, nutrition and physical activity. Specialists warn that the change may cause tiredness, mood changes and reduced concentration during the first few days.
How to minimise the effects on health and routine
To reduce the impact of the transition, it is recommended to adopt simple strategies:
• Gradually adjust bedtime and wake-up times;
• Maintain a consistent sleep routine, including at weekends;
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol or heavy meals before sleeping;
• Take advantage of natural light early in the morning to synchronise the biological clock;
• Practise light exercise during the day and schedule relaxing moments in the afternoon.
These practices help the body adapt to the new routine, improving sleep, mood and productivity.
Impact of the time change on the home and property market
The time change also affects the way we use our homes. With shorter days, bright and comfortable interior spaces stand out. Houses and flats with large windows, good solar orientation, efficient heating and cosy living areas become more appealing, as they allow for better use of daylight and maintain comfort even with fewer hours of sun.
Winter time adds value to properties with open-plan living rooms, spacious and well-lit kitchens. Outdoor areas such as balconies and gardens are less used at the end of the afternoon but remain important for leisure. Properties that combine functional indoor spaces and accessible outdoor areas tend to appreciate during this period.
Energy efficiency, safety and upcoming changes
With shorter days, the need for artificial lighting increases, making properties with good sun exposure and sustainable lighting systems even more relevant. Homes that balance comfort and energy efficiency stand out in the market, attracting buyers and tenants mindful of costs and quality of life.
The time change also affects the perception of safety in neighbourhoods. As night falls earlier, well-lit streets and active residential areas become key factors in choosing a property.
Winter time remains in effect until the following spring. In 2026, the return to summer time will take place on Sunday, 29 March, when the clocks will go forward one hour.
Until then, it is essential that residents adapt their routines, making the most of the shorter days to create habits of comfort, productivity and well-being at home.
The transition to winter time affects more than just the clocks: it influences sleep, health, household routines and even the value of properties. Well-designed homes, with functional interiors, natural light and usable outdoor areas, stand out as ideal options to face shorter days with comfort and quality of life.
Source:
SUPERCASA