Lisbon is a middle of tradition and commerce in Western Europe, recognized for its peaceable mountains and charming sandy coast. From fantastically adorned streets to cozy cafes, cultural occasions, historic locations, and lots of breathtaking viewpoints, Lisbon in December will certainly seize your coronary heart.
In the event you’re questioning whether or not it’s a good suggestion to go to Lisbon in December, the reply is certainly YES! The town will get prepared for Christmas: the streets are lit up, there are craft markets, cultural occasions, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts and Bolo Rei permeates the air. That is the best time to benefit from the appeal of the little areas that distinguish the Portuguese capital as a particular journey vacation spot.
Learn on to seek out out what Lisbon in December is like! We record must-see options, issues to do, the place to remain, and extra!
Lisbon In December – Finest Locations To Go to
December in Lisbon gives a singular mix of festive cheer, cultural richness, and gentle winter climate. Listed below are among the greatest locations to go to in Lisbon throughout this enchanting month: Alfama, Castelo de São Jorge, Belém district, just a few breathtaking viewpoints, many museums, Jerónimos Monastery, and Carmo Convent.
Uncover the district of Alfama
📌 Location | Discover on map |
⭐ Highlights | ✦ Fado Museum ✦ Nationwide Pantheon ✦ Santa Luzia Viewpoint |
Probably the most historic and exquisite neighborhood in Lisbon is Alfama, which is a must-see when visiting Lisbon.
Discover the historic Alfama district, the place slim streets are adorned with Christmas lights, and the soulful sounds of Fado music fill the air.
Moreover, among the most iconic views and sights in Lisbon may be discovered right here, such because the Miradouro das Portas do Sol and the Miradouro de Santa Luiza.
Nevertheless, in different phrases, Alfama’s reputation and hills mix to make it a super vacation spot for exploration within the much less crowded, colder months of December, January, and February.
Discover São Jorge Fort
📌 Location | Discover on map |
👀 Why Go to? | It’s a window into Lisbon’s outstanding previous. |
December is the best time to go to the Castelo de São Jorge, one in all Lisbon’s high points of interest.
Strolling the partitions of Castelo de São Jorge in Lisbon is a fascinating expertise that provides not solely panoramic views of town but additionally a journey by means of centuries of historical past.
Nonetheless, the place is so common that, for almost all of the yr, there are traces to enter the grounds.
Kate, an enthusiastic traveler, advises – “It’s nice to have more space because the castle’s main attraction is walking around the ramparts, which are much less crowded in the winter.”
As well as, Castelo de São Jorge provides you a singular perspective on Lisbon’s present magnificence and allows you to make a reference to its historical past.
Go to the neighborhood of Belém
📌 Location | Discover on map |
⭐ Highlights | ✦ Belém Tower ✦ Monument to the Discoveries ✦ Pastéis de Belém |
Go to Belém, a captivating neighborhood recognized for its iconic landmarks. You’ll discover Belém Tower right here, standing particularly on the level the place the Tagus River empties into the Atlantic Ocean. A masterpiece of structure, Belém Tower is a illustration of Portugal’s maritime previous.
Apparently, Belem Tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Website. This legendary fortress embodies centuries of historical past and exploration legends.
Admire the views from Lisbon’s many miradouros
🏞️ Should-See Viewpoints | ✦ Gracia Viewpoint ✦ Miradouro das Portas do Sol ✦ Miradouro Nossa Senhora do Monte ✦ Panorâmico de Monsanto ✦ Miradouro Santa Catarina |
Constructed on 7 steep hills, Lisbon is understood for its many breathtaking viewpoints or miradouros.
Lisbon gives loads of breathtaking views, however it’s particularly worthwhile to go to the Miraodouro das Portas do Sol, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara, Miradouro da Graça, and the Miradouro da Santa Luzia.
Be ready for a pleasant leg exercise to achieve these stunning views!
See the gorgeous Jerónimos Monastery
📌 Location | Discover on map |
👀 Why Go to? | It’s a gorgeous instance of Portuguese Late Gothic structure, showcasing vaulted ceilings and complicated ornamental parts |
The Jerónimos Monastery, which dates again to the early sixteenth century, is taken into account a number one instance of the area’s Portuguese Gothic Manueline structure and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Website.
Nestled within the historic district of Belém in Lisbon, this gorgeous monastery invitations guests to step again in time and marvel on the intricate particulars of its design and the historic significance it holds.
The monastery is an excellent place to go to any time of yr as a result of it’s crammed with superb element and is much more beautiful inside.
Megan, an enthusiastic traveler, advises – “Still, the less crowded winter months are a great time to enjoy it because it’s one of the most popular things to do in Lisbon. In case there are any lines, get your ticket in advance.”
Take a look at Carmo Convent
📌 Location | Discover on map |
👀 Why Go to? | The gothic ruins of Carmo Convent are a strong reminder of the devastating 1755 earthquake that just about destroyed Lisbon. |
Constructed between 1389 and 1423, the Carmo Convent is a singular Gothic church in Lisbon on account of its lack of a roof!
Lisbon, with its labyrinthine streets and wealthy tapestry of historic landmarks, unfolds tales of resilience and endurance. One in every of my greatest points of interest in Lisbon, this church was destroyed within the well-known earthquake of 1755 and was by no means totally rebuilt. It opens out to the sky. Nevertheless, the Carmo Convent invitations you to pause, replicate, and recognize the enduring spirit of Lisbon!
Take a break from the rain at one in all Lisbon’s greatest museums
🏛️ Should-Go to Museums | ✦ Berardo Assortment Museum ✦ MAAT Berardo Assortment Museum Nationwide ✦ Museum of Modern Artwork ✦ Museu Calouste Gulbenkian ✦ Museu Nacional do Azulejo |
Not surprisingly, Lisbon, the vigorous capital of Europe, gives an superb choice of museums! From historic artifacts to fashionable masterpieces, Lisbon’s cultural establishments provide a kaleidoscopic journey by means of the ages.
Wonderful locations to begin are the Museum of Artwork, Structure, and Know-how (MAAT), the Nationwide Azulejo Museum, the Fado Museum, and the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum.
Lisbon In December – The Climate
Lisbon climate experiences comparatively gentle, with lows of 8 or 9 levels Celsius and highs of 15 or 16 levels. December is a good time to go to Lisbon as a result of there are fewer vacationers and extra time to discover.
The temperature in Lisbon in December solely drops to eight or 9 levels Celsius, and it nonetheless reaches highs of 15 or 16 levels. Lisbon will in all probability see a fast change in climate in December, even whether it is overcast or raining. It additionally gained’t be extraordinarily chilly.
For wet and sunny days although, be prepared with an umbrella and some indoor actions in thoughts. Lisbon has tons to supply on this regard.
Furthermore, December in Lisbon is a singular and charming expertise, mixing the festive spirit of the vacation season with town’s gentle Mediterranean local weather. The town adorns its streets with dazzling lights and decorations, making a heat and welcoming ambiance.
It’s the most effective time to benefit from the metropolis’s landmarks as a result of there are fewer guests on the vacationer points of interest.
Lisbon’s New 12 months’s Eve festivities, candlelit processions, and scenic viewpoints make for an unforgettable December go to to this charming European metropolis.
Lisbon In December – What to Pack And Put on
Packing layers — quite a lot of sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and a water-resistant jacket—will make it easier to accommodate fluctuating temperatures. For touring Lisbon’s stunning streets and viewpoints, don’t overlook necessities like snug sneakers.
December is a yearly chilly interval in Europe the place the temperature is predicted probably to fall to zero or under (at the very least by Lisbon requirements). December was the 2nd wettest in Lisbon after November however the complete rainfall within the month may differ from yr to yr.
Lisbon is a hotter winter vacation spot in Europe, so that you gained’t must pack additional for a go to throughout the colder months.
Nevertheless, we created a packing record with a spread of things so that you can guarantee you’re prepared for any type of climate throughout the wintertime in Portugal.
Right here’s what you’ll must pack for winter in Lisbon:
✦ Throughout the day, put on a light-weight coat and scarf.
✦ A hotter winter jacket for cold evenings, days, or day journeys to areas like Sintra.
✦ A woolen hat particularly in the event you’re feeling chilly or happening day excursions.
✦ Gloves, particularly in the event you really feel the chilly.
✦ Cozy winter sneakers or boots and heat socks.
✦ Keep in mind to pack a small umbrella and a water resistant backpack in case of rain.
Need to know extra? Learn our information on what to put on in Lisbon.
Lisbon In December – Issues To Do
Lisbon throughout December transforms right into a metropolis of enchantment, mixing its wealthy cultural tapestry with the festive spirit of the Christmas season. Right here’s a listing of the most effective issues to do in Lisbon throughout this magical month: go to a Christmas market, take a meals and Portuguese wine strolling tour, take a stay Fado & Alfama tour, Take a Pastel de Nata Baking Class, and stick round for New 12 months’s Eve.
Go to a Christmas Market
🎄 Advisable Christmas Markets | ✦ Wonderland Lisboa ✦ Rossio Sq. ✦ Campo Pequeno ✦ Alvalade Christmas Market ✦ Carnide Christmas Market |
Immerse your self within the festive ambiance by exploring Lisbon’s Christmas markets. Locals and vacationers collect at these seasonal markets, which turn out to be hubs of celebration.
It’s a wonderful place to seek out distinctive presents for family members as a result of most retailers and shops promote handcrafted items and vacation accents. As well as, Christmas markets function kid-friendly leisure, stay music performances, and meals demonstrations.
Go on a Meals and Wine Strolling Tour
💲 Approximate Charges (costs are topic to fluctuations) | Meals and wine strolling excursions in Lisbon can price anyplace from €68 to €90 (round $70 – $100) per grownup, relying on the size of the tour, the variety of tastings included, and the corporate you ebook with. |
Expertise the soul-stirring melodies of Portugal by cozying up at night time with a Fado present in Lisbon.
Fado is a music usually sung in crowded bars or cafes with the intent to precise and provoke intense feelings of longing, nostalgia, and unhappiness.
Take pleasure in a fascinating night because the haunting tunes and heartfelt lyrics transport you to the center of Portuguese feelings, making it a memorable night time out within the charming capital metropolis.
Take a Reside Fado & Alfama Tour
💲 Approximate Charges (costs are topic to fluctuations) | ✦ €20-€50: That is the value vary for a primary Fado present ticket, with none extras. ✦ €50-€100: It will get you a Fado present with a drink or a light-weight snack included. ✦ €100+: That is the value vary for a extra complete tour that features a strolling tour of Alfama, dinner, and a Fado present. |
Expertise the soul-stirring melodies of Portugal by cozying up at night time with a Fado present in Lisbon. Fado is music often sung in crowded bars or cafes with the intent to precise and provoke intense feelings of longing, nostalgia, and unhappiness.
Take pleasure in a fascinating night because the haunting tunes and heartfelt lyrics transport you to the center of Portuguese feelings, making it a memorable night time within the charming capital metropolis.
Attend a Pastel de Nata Baking Class
💲 Approximate Charges (costs are topic to fluctuations) | The price of attending a Pastel de Nata baking class in Lisbon can fluctuate relying on the particular class, however you may anticipate to pay someplace between €50 and €80 (round $55 and $90). |
Bask in a candy and interactive expertise by taking a Pastel de Nata Baking Class in Lisbon. This hands-on culinary journey invitations you to delve into the artwork of crafting Portugal’s iconic custard tarts. Led by expert instructors, the category unfolds the secrets and techniques behind the fragile pastry and creamy custard filling.
This pleasant class meals tour ensures a tasty and unforgettable reminiscence out of your keep within the vibrant capital, combining culinary exploration with cultural immersion.
Stick round for New 12 months’s Eve
👀 Issues to do in Lisbon throughout New 12 months’s Eve | ✦ Cruise on River Tejo ✦ Social gathering at a New 12 months’s Eve Gala ✦ Gamble at On line casino Lisboa ✦ Absorb the sounds of Fado ✦ Watch fireworks gentle up the skies |
Have fun the New 12 months with Fireworks and Free Live shows. See the magnificent fireworks in Praça do Comércio (Terreiro Do Paco), a big plaza within the coronary heart of Lisbon that’s crowded with eating places and bars.
Dinner cruises and Fado reveals, which function conventional music, at Café Luso, Clube de Fado, or Adega Machado, are one other two Lisbon New 12 months’s Eve actions. Everytime you select to go, you positively may have an unforgettable time!
Lisbon In December – Locations To Keep
The neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Principe Actual, and Barrio Alto are glorious selections to contemplate when looking for lodging. A few of our high picks for Lisbon are WOT Lisbon Nomad, The Editory, and The Lumiares Resort & Spa.
One of many many advantages of touring to Lisbon in December is that lodging can be considerably cheaper than they might be in the summertime — and Lisbon is already one in all Europe’s most reasonably priced capital cities!
Leonor, an area boy, advises – “While there are many wonderful neighborhoods in Lisbon to stay in, I suggest choosing a place in the heart of the city with easy access to public transportation.”
When searching for locations to remain, maintain the neighborhoods of Alfama, Baixa, Chiado, Principe Actual, and Barrio Alto in thoughts.
WOT Lisbon Nomad is a good, central choice for these searching for a price range hostel expertise and need to reap the benefits of the recreation alternatives.
The situation and glorious opinions of The Editory Riverside Santa Apolonia are unbeatable at a mid-range worth.
Within the temper for some luxurious? You gained’t quickly overlook the breathtaking views at The Lumiares Resort & Spa. This resort gives a spa, which gives massages, physique remedies, and facials. Additionally, there’s a sauna and a 24-hour health heart.
Discover your good lodging and ebook your keep in Lisbon right this moment!
Often Requested Questions
Is it time to go to Lisbon in December?
Sure, it’s time to go to Lisbon in December! The climate is gentle, with common highs round 15°C (59°F) and lows round 4°C (39°F). There are fewer crowds than in the summertime months, so you may anticipate shorter traces at points of interest and higher offers on flights and inns. Moreover, Lisbon transforms right into a winter wonderland in December, with festive lights twinkling all through town and Christmas markets popping up in squares.
What’s the climate like in Lisbon in December?
Lisbon enjoys a Mediterranean local weather, with gentle winters and heat summers. December is among the coolest months of the yr, however it’s nonetheless fairly nice. You’ll be able to anticipate common highs round 15°C (59°F) and lows round 4°C (39°F). There’s a likelihood of rain, so be sure you pack an umbrella or raincoat.
What to do in Lisbon Portugal in December?
- Discover town’s Christmas markets, the place you could find distinctive presents, scrumptious meals, and festive drinks.
- Absorb the festive ambiance by taking a stroll by means of town heart and admiring the Christmas lights.
- Go to one in all Lisbon’s many museums, such because the Jerónimos Monastery or the Nationwide Tile Museum.
- Take a day journey to Sintra, an attractive city situated within the hills exterior of Lisbon.
- Take pleasure in a scrumptious meal at one in all Lisbon’s many eating places, serving up every little thing from conventional Portuguese delicacies to worldwide fare.
What ought to I pack for a visit to Lisbon in December?
You’ll want to pack snug strolling sneakers, as you’ll be doing loads of exploring on foot. You’ll additionally need to pack layers of clothes, so you may modify to the altering temperatures. A raincoat or umbrella is a should, as there’s a likelihood of rain. And don’t overlook to pack your swimsuit! Though the climate will not be ideally suited for swimming within the ocean, you may have the ability to get pleasure from a dip in a resort pool.
How a lot does it price to go to Lisbon in December?
Lisbon is a comparatively reasonably priced metropolis to go to, particularly throughout the low season. You’ll be able to look forward to finding decrease costs on flights and inns in December than you’d throughout the peak summer time months. The price of meals and drinks can be cheap. Nevertheless, understand that costs could go up barely round Christmas and New 12 months’s.
Will or not it’s too chilly to get pleasure from out of doors actions when visiting Lisbon in December?
By no means! The climate in Lisbon in December is ideal for exploring town on foot. You’ll be able to comfortably stroll across the historic neighborhoods, go to the various museums and galleries, and benefit from the stunning views from town’s many hills. Simply be sure you gown in layers so you may modify to the altering temperatures.