Christmas in Lisbon is an experience not to be missed! While the city doesn’t experience snow cover, decorated streets with twinkling Christmas lights, bedecked window displays, and an aromatic city center toasty with the scent of coffee, sweets, and roasted chestnuts create a festive atmosphere that puts you right in the mood.
If you want to experience the magical combination of festive modernity and historic charm, then spend your Christmas in Lisbon. Let’s get into the spirit and learn more about why this city deserves your attention during the holiday season!
Quick Jumplinks
Christmas In Lisbon – What Are Some Things To Do?
Go holiday shopping at Christmas markets
| 🎄 Best Christmas Markets in Lisbon | ✦ Wonderland Lisboa | Find on map ✦ Rossio Square | Find on map ✦ Campo Pequeno | Find on map ✦ Alvalade Christmas Market | Find on map ✦ Carnide Christmas Market | Find on map |
Lisbon’s Christmas markets are more than just markets. Get ready to see sparkling Christmas trees, skate on rinks, spend time with Santa Claus, and do some Christmas shopping during the holiday season.
➤ Campo Pequeno Christmas Market (Nov 30–Dec 3, Dec 7–10): Situated in a former bullring, this market offers a yearly gathering of numerous national artisans and producers. Over 100 exhibitors set up shop, selling everything from toys, clothing, and jewelry to vintage products. In addition, there is a restaurant area and an amazing ice skating rink for the more daring in the market.
➤ Rossio Christmas Market (Nov 18–Dec 23): The Rossio Christmas Market is located in Baixa, close to Bairro Alto, in the center of Lisbon. Visitors can anticipate beautifully decorated stalls, local artisans showcasing their crafts, a variety of seasonal goodies, and a joyful atmosphere. The market location makes it a prime spot for holiday celebrations, offering a mix of traditional and modern elements that contribute to the magical ambiance of Christmas in Lisbon.
➤ Wonderland Lisbon (Dec 1–Jan 2): Wonderland is a must-visit location if you want to experience Christmas the way it was when you were a child. This market features a Ferris wheel, a Christmas village, and several kid-friendly attractions in addition to its central location. Visitors can enjoy ice skating, amusement rides, and entertainment performances in a winter wonderland setting.
Joanna, an enthusiastic traveler, suggests – “I recommend staying warm while perusing the stalls on Christmas markets with a cup of mulled wine.”
See the tallest Christmas tree in Europe
| 📌 Where Is It? | 1100-148 Lisbon, Portugal. Find on map |
| 🛏️ Stay Nearby | Lisboa Prata Boutique Hotel | Check Availability |
Did you know Lisbon is home to the tallest Christmas Tree in Europe? Standing impressively at 76 meters tall, it’s located in the famous Commerce Square. It’s a sight that attracts both tourists and locals. People come from all over to see the beauty of this holiday centerpiece, which turns the square into a winter wonderland. Visitors can expect an impressive tree adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating a magical and festive atmosphere.
Enjoy a festive Christmas concert
| 💃 Best venues for Christmas shows | ✦ Cathedral Sé de Lisboa ✦ Basilica da Estrela ✦ MEO Arena ✦ Coliseum of Lisbon ✦ National Theatre of São Carlos |
Christmas in Lisbon offers a virtually unmatched option for music lovers seeking unique musical experiences: the “Natal Concerts.” These concerts feature a diverse range of performances, from traditional Christmas carols to more contemporary renditions of festive music. Churches, concert halls, and public areas are common locations for the concerts.
A great way for locals and tourists to embrace the musical and cultural traditions that make Christmas in Lisbon truly special is to attend Natal Concerts.
“I attended a young choir’s Christmas concert. Entry was free, the venue was amazing, the musical arrangements were amazing, and the repertoire was extraordinary” – says Jose, an enthusiastic traveler, “The choir’s young members were amazing and incredibly humble. Don’t miss it—there are lots of things to do in the Chiado after the performance.”
Taste the iconic Bolo Rei sweet
| 🥮 Must-Visit Spots for Bolo Rei | ✦ Confeitaria Nacional | Find on map ✦ Pastelaria Versailles | Find on map ✦ Pastelaria Califa | Find on map ✦ Pastelaria Careca | Find on map ✦ Pastelaria Garrett | Find on map |
Bolo Rei, a traditional king cake, is made with white dough, candies, and dried fruit. It is sold in December during Christmas. Nuts and fruits serve as the crown jewels, giving it a crown-like appearance. Taste this sweet treat and celebrate Christmas the way the locals do.
Admire twinkling Christmas lights as you walk the streets
| ✨ Spots For Christmas Lights Viewing | ✦ Parque Eduardo VII ✦ Avenida da Liberdade ✦ Chiado Neighbourhood ✦ Praça do Comércio |
Do you enjoy basking under the Christmas Lights? Lisbon is breathtaking to see during Christmas when the streets are decorated with lights, displays, and carousels. You can see places like Eduardo VII Park, Praca do Comercio, Marques de Pombal Square, and the entire Baixa lit up for Christmas, which seems to emphasize the unique vibe of the city even more. Even after your trip, you will long remember this unmissable sight.
Have a delicious Christmas Day lunch
| 🍗 Best Places For Christmas Lunches | ✦ Flor de Lis | Find on map ✦ Sacramento do Chiado | Find on map ✦ Mensagem | Find on map ✦ Varanda de Lisboa | Find on map ✦ BAHR & Terrace | Find on map |
Families reunite for lunch on December 25, Christmas Day. However, this is usually a more relaxed day, with lots of families choosing to dine out rather than host celebrations at home. Many of the city’s restaurants and eateries offer special holiday menus, featuring traditional Portuguese dishes alongside festive delicacies. Don’t forget to reserve a table in advance!
Christmas In Lisbon – What’s The Weather Like?
The city in the southern Mediterranean experiences mild winters with occasional rains and cool evenings. The average daily temperature in Lisbon is around 15°C (60°F), with a nighttime low of 8°C (45°F). For evenings, bring a warm scarf, a coat, and a fuzzy sweater. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella, since Lisbon in December experiences occasional rainfall.
Christmas In Lisbon – Where To Stay?
➤ For an enchanting Christmas stay in Lisbon, consider booking accommodations in the historic district of Baixa. The location is perfect for exploring the city.
Grape Harbor Prata Apartments is a great place to spend for rooms with air conditioning and kitchenettes featuring ovens and refrigerators. Free wireless internet access keeps you connected, and 52-inch flat-screen TVs with digital programming.
➤ For a more tranquil escape, Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest district, offers a charming setting with narrow streets and a romantic atmosphere.
The ideal choice is Emporium Lisbon Suites, offering kitchenette features, free wireless internet access that keeps you connected, and TVs with cable programming. A daily housekeeping service is also offered along with conveniences like microwaves and safes.
➤ For a more lively atmosphere, the Bairro Alto neighborhood is ideal for exploring holiday nightlife and enjoying the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Another place you may consider staying in Lisbon is 9Hotel Mercy. This hotel offers free wireless Internet access and digital programming. Complimentary toiletries and rainfall showerheads are featured in private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers. Enjoy the views from the terrace and benefit from unlimited wireless internet access and concierge services, among other features.
Plan to stay in Lisbon in advance because Christmas is always the busiest time of the year!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the atmosphere like during Christmas in Lisbon?
Lisbon transforms into a winter wonderland at Christmas. Expect beautiful decorations, festive lights, Christmas markets, and a warm atmosphere.
Is it worth it to celebrate Christmas in Lisbon?
Lisbon is worth visiting during Christmas for its mild winters, vibrant markets, delicious local specialties, and charmingly illuminated streets.
What are some things to do during Christmas in Lisbon?
Visiting Christmas markets, enjoying the festive decorations and lights, attending Midnight Mass at a historic church, sampling traditional Portuguese Christmas dishes, relaxing on the beaches, and attending Christmas shows – there’s much to see and do during Christmas in Lisbon.
Does it get crowded during Christmas in Lisbon?
Yes, Lisbon is a popular Christmas destination, especially for those seeking a milder European Christmas. Booking flights and accommodation well in advance is recommended.
What’s open on the day of Christmas in Lisbon?
Most shops and restaurants close on Christmas Day. However, churches (where you can attend Midnight Mass), Christmas markets, and some cafes might remain open.
Are there Christmas markets in Lisbon?
Yes, Lisbon has several Christmas markets offering traditional food, drinks, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
How many days are enough to experience Christmas in Lisbon?
Four or five days are enough to fully enjoy Lisbon’s Christmas festivities, which include markets, concerts, festive cuisine, and cultural attractions.
