Christmas in Lisbon – Lisbon itinerary during Christmas
Hello readers, so finally, Christmas is here…..and you might be excited to visit some vibrant place, right?
In case you are thinking about celebrating Christmas in Portugal, then you will get your answers here. First of all, feel relaxed about your plan; it’s a blast! This Lisbon itinerary during Christmas has covered everything to do during this festive season, making it magical.
From glittering decorations to twinkling streets, Christmas in Lisbon 2024 will definitely be a perfect experience. You are definitely going to feel the Christmas joy.
If you are looking for a place to spend your Christmas, then Lisbon is really a great choice. This itinerary has covered everything that should be on your travel list. Here you go!
Things to do in Lisbon during Christmas
Whether it’s 2 days in Lisbon during Christmas or more, there are so many different ways to make the most of your trip to Lisbon. If you are visiting Lixbõa, check out these things to make your trip exciting!
Christmas Events & Concerts
The foremost thing to be included in this Lisbon itinerary during Christmas is attending Christmas events and concerts.
- One of the most famous events, i.e., Christmas Wonderland Lisbon, takes place at the Marques de Pombal Square, transforming this place into a paradise. Boasting ice rink, thrilling wheels, and lots of Christmas events. This event runs from December to January, so if you are visiting Lisbon, make sure you try this event with comfort.
- Another event is Cirque du Soleil Crystal at Altice Arena which is definitely a treat if you haven’t seen Cirque du Soleil’s show. Performed on ice, this show really leaves the visitors mesmerized.
- Teatro Armando Cortez is also a great theatre to watch Christmas shows. The most famous Christmas musical is “O Feiticeiro de Oz,” which is fully enjoyed by the families here.
- And yes, don’t miss out on the Traditional Christmas Concerts which is held in several churches of this city. These concerts are a perfect blend of music and culture. If you are stuck with something to do in December in Lisbon, this experience is a must-have.
If you wish to travel to Lisbon and enjoy the activities, you need to apply for a Portugal Schengen visa.
Christmas Activities in Lisbon
Undoubtedly Lisbon itinerary during Christmas is incomplete without mentioning the activities to do. Here are the activities you can do during your Christmas vacation.
- Christmas walking tour: Being in such an enchanting city in Portugal, you can consider exploring by taking private tours during this festive season. This is really one of the best ways to explore every corner, learn about this city’s traditions and also see the beautiful attractions.
- Portuguese Christmas Desserts: Visiting Portugal and not trying Christmas desserts is just not fair to your trip. So, make sure you try the traditional Portuguese Christmas desserts, whether Bolo Rei or Rabanadas, as they truly serve your taste buds.
- Visiting Lisbon Christmas market: During this season, this city transforms itself into a winter wonderland where lights, music, activities, and festivities are stunning, adding a different charm. Lisbon’s Christmas markets bring together forever traditions, antique crafts, delicious foods, and exciting activities.
- Christmas lights in Rossio & Terreiro: The city’s historic square areas, including Rossio and Terreiro do Paco, are fully decorated with Christmas lights which transform the nights into magical ones.
- Natalis fair: The onset of Christmas not only brings pleasant weather but also enchanting fairs. During this season, the Natalis fair is held in Lisbon, which is a vibrant Christmas market offering delicious food, craft items, and fun activities. This is definitely one of the perfect places to see Portuguese kind of fun.
- Wonderland Lisboa: Every year, Marques de Pombal Square transforms into a vibrant Wonderland Lisboa, which is a must-visit Christmas fair. Boasting Christmas shows, it captivates the visitors and leaves them mesmerized with its decor too.
Christmas Decorations in Lisbon
What’s next in our Lisbon itinerary during Christmas is the list of top places to see Christmas decorations in Lisbon!
- Baixa and Chiado Neighborhood: Don’t miss strolling through the shopping streets of Lisbon. The Seasonal displays are worth a sight. There are lights that enhance the charm of the streets, creating a vibrant ambiance.
- Walking Tour: At the end of December, you will get to see Christmas decorations everywhere around Lisbon. Consider taking the walking tours to catch sight of festive decor and get to know about the traditions.
- Christmas Market at Campo Pequeno: One of the most vibrant decorations is seen in the Christmas market at Campo Pequeno. This market comprises 150 stalls selling everything from retro jewelry to brand-new books, and clothing, and of course have the best Christmas decorations!
- Nickolaus: Full of Christmas treasures, decorations, and gifts, this place is really a treasure. Famous for festive gifts, you will definitely find something interesting to buy here.
- Natalis at Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL): This popular market takes place in late November or early December. There are lots of vendors offering aesthetic festive items, and this place also captivates visitors with its unique decorations.
- Saudade Flores: Known for its beautiful Christmas wreaths and amazing creations, you will love visiting this place. If you are looking for a place filled with Handmade Christmas decorations, then this is the spot.
Christmas in Lisbon: Tastes & Treats
Portuguese are always famous for their gastronomy and hospitality, making them a wider choice for the Christmas holidays. Loaded with robust flavors, delicious servings, and delicate nuances, they create a legendary culinary. When you visit Christmas in Lisbon 2024, you must consider trying traditional Portuguese food or hands-on baking classes.
Traditional Sweets – Traditional sweets are undoubtedly a temptation for our taste buds. When it comes to breakfast, french toast with Portuguese flavors is good to have, like Rabanadas or Golden slices. With some crispiness and creamy texture, stale baguette is a true Christmas dessert.
If you like sweet sensation, then Tinto or Port, not quite French toast Rabanada is a must try. Coated with cinnamon and soaked in sugar & milk, this is infused with a pinch of Portuguese wine.
Portugal’s world-famous egg custard tarts (Pasteis de Nata), deep-fried balls (Sonhos Fritos), and rice pudding (Arroz Duce) are definitely must-try.
Traditional Dishes – For festive gatherings, traditional dishes are a must that enhances the gatherings. The star of Christmas Eve is the most preferred one and is the renowned national dish of codfish.
Being there during this festive season, you must try the classic preparation, Bacalhau. Bacalhau is fried with olive oil and served with boiled potatoes & cabbage.
In case there are any codfish leftovers from Christmas Eve, this is served again the following day i.e., Christmas lunch.
Round like a Christmas wreath, there are king cake and queen cake. King cake is stuffed with nuts and fruits, whereas the queen cake is loaded as bolo rei. And lastly, the family feats complete with fine Portuguese wine and liqueurs.
*** However, Christmas in Lisbon Portugal is not just a celebration but a wonderful experience for the visitors. Indeed!!!
Taxi or Uber to Lisbon airport on Christmas
Another thing which our Lisbon itinerary during Christmas wants to mention is the public transportation.
During this festive season, public transport to and from Lisbon airport is a bit different due to the festive schedule. The good thing is both taxis and Uber are fully available, but still you must know some things.
- Taxi: Taxis run throughout the year, but their ratio might get lower during major festivities at Christmas. If you are visiting Lisbon on the day of the festivities, it is recommended to book a taxi in advance. Taxis are easily available at Lisbon’s airport, so fret not!
- Uber: Like taxis, Uber is also easily available in this city during Christmas. But the thing to be noted here is the price surge due to festivities and abundant visitors. If you want to book Uber, then must check the current fairs on the app and book at your convenience.
Weather in Lisbon around Christmas
Snowy days…Snowy days…Snowy days…!!! One thing is for sure: it won’t! In Lisbon, you will not see a white Christmas and the weather will not at all be frightful. During Christmas, the climate is quite pleasant in Portugal, and you can enjoy the fullest without wrapping yourself fully.
High temperatures go around 15.3 ℃ (about 60 ℉) and as low as 9.4 ℃ (49 ℉) by late December. Late at night, the temperatures go cool, so prefer wearing jackets.
| The Weather in Lisbon Around Christmas | Average Temperatures | Rainfall | Sunlight | Historical Data | Clothing Advice |
| Daytime | 16°C (61°F) | Short heavy showers | Generally sunny days | Christmas Day 2018: 14°C (67°F), Sunny | Warmer clothes and layers recommended |
| Nighttime | 9°C to 10°C (approximately 48°F to 60°F) | Can also be very foggy | Christmas Day 2018 & 2017: 11°C (52°F), Sunny | Big Jacket, hate, gloves, scarf |
What to wear in Lisbon in December
This Itinerary for a trip to Lisbon tried updating you about everything in this city. So, as you know, the climatic conditions too, it is crucial to pack the bags accordingly. For easier navigation, here is a list of what to wear during this season.
Women – Winter essentials for women are:
- Hat, Scarf, & Gloves
- Trousers
- Skirts & dresses
- Blouses
- T-shirt
- Layers
- Pashmina
- Warm undergarments & Socks
- Ankle boots or sneakers
Men – Winter essentials for men are:
- Winter jacket
- Hat, Scarf, & Gloves
- Chinos/Jeans
- Layers
- Warm undergarments & Socks
- Ankle boots or sneakers
What is open in Lisbon on Christmas Day
The next thing we covered in this Lisbon itinerary during Christmas is the open places during this festive season.
There are several restaurants that remain open on Christmas Day in Lisbon. Here are some of the best places to have a festive meal.
- Flor-de-Lis
- Sacramento do Chiado
- Mensagem
- Varanda de Lisboa
- Rua do Benformoso
- Lumbini
- BAHR & Terrace
- La Paparrucha Steakhouse
Where to stay during Christmas in Lisbon
On your Holiday to Lisbon Portugal, you might be searching for the perfect place to stay. You can pick the best ones from the given places offering Christmas packages too:
- Hotel Lisboa Plaza: This is truly a gem of the Heritage collection. This place provides the perfect Christmas holiday experience for the visitors.
- Hotel Portugal: If you are seeking accommodations just in the center of the city, this place is best. The Varanda de Lisboa at this property offers a friendly ambiance to the tourists.
- Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon: If you are seeking luxury & comfort, then this property is perfect. Adorned with artworks during Christmas, Almada Negreiros Lounge leaves travelers mesmerized.
- Lisbon Marriott Hotel: If you wish to stay in accommodation where luxury, comfort & packages meet, then this place is perfect. This hotel offers a special Pcakge during this festive season including dinner buffets, late check-out, etc.
- Bairro Alto Hotel: With a jazz tone, this place sets a different space at the bohemian BAHR, and if you are willing to have a cozy, delicious dinner, this place is perfect.
- Lisboa Carmo Hotel: Located in the heart of Lisbon, this hotel has a stunning interior, luxury rooms with a modern pinch, and a magnificent view of the Tagus River.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Christmas is the most amazing and joyful time of the year. And undoubtedly, Lisbon is a wonderful palace to spend this vacation. To help you spend your days at best, this Lisbon itinerary during Christmas tries to cover everything from festivities to weather.
Whether it’s your first time or it’s your subsequent trip, you’ll find uniqueness in every celebration here. So, yes do come and celebrate Christmas in Lisbon.
But wait, make sure you have applied for a Portugal visa from UK timely because delaying in visa can spoil your winter vacations. Apply with us early and plan your Christmas joy.
Merry Christmas to you & your family!!!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Don’t expect snow in Lisbon during this festive season. Temperature is also mild, around (46-59 F).
Christmas is really a great time to visit Lisbon. This capital of Portuguese offers a great time to visitors, which has culture, tradition, decor, and delicious foods.
1. Wonderland Lisboa
2. Campo Pequeno Christmas market
3. Grande Arraial Lumiar
4. Christmas market at Rossio Square
