Abstract The notion of comfort applies to productivity, hygiene and air treatment and to the dimensions of sustainability and energy saving. This research analyzes thermal sensation and microclimatic conditions at several outdoor spaces with different combinations of parameters: artificial cover, vegetation cover and without cover. The evaluation scale used in this study is the seven-point ASHRAE scale, which is used to determine people’s psychological reactions to these spaces. The results show that the cover material affects the air temperature and thermal conditions of the spaces. The best thermal comfort conditions were found under trees and a tensioned membrane structure. These cover materials act by blocking radiation and projecting shade on pedestrians, the floor and the walls, which influences the thermal sensation. The results of this research are intended to contribute knowledge for the development of urban design guidelines that take into consideration the microclimatic conditions of tropical cities.