Lisbon in December: 10 Things To Do In This Magical Time

December is such a magical month in Lisbon, I simply love the city around this time because you have the many lights throughout the city light up this beautiful place.

Christmas is everywhere in Lisbon in December, and you can feel that, not only in the lights but in the people, the decorations, and the vibe around the city.

I love being in the city center of Chiado during this time, and I feel the Christmas stress of buying gifts and feeling happy.

If you want to experience the same, get your notebook ready. Here are some things you can do.

10 Things to Do In Lisbon in December

There is so much to do in the Portuguese capital during December, but I’ve tried to collect 10 things I love to do when I’m in Lisbon in December.

If you love Christmas, the first 3 are must-do things.

1. Christmas Markets

There are a couple of Christmas Markets I always visit, and that’s the one at Rossio Square, Wonderland Lisboa, and Figueira.

However, that’s just one of 11 Christmas Markets you can experience in Lisbon, and if you’re here in December, I really recommend you do it.

Try some roasted chestnuts as well; they are what the Portuguese love to eat in the winter months in the Portuguese capital.

2. Biggest Christmas Tree in Europe

Now, this is a fun fact. Europe’s biggest Christmas tree is right here in the Lisbon District, more precisely in Chiado on Praca do Comercio (Terreiro do Paco).

It’s by the Tagus River, and it’s a beautiful, large tree that changes design every year and just adds to how much Portugal does for Christmas.

3. Christmas Lights

If you stroll through the narrow streets in Lisbon, you’ll find the beautiful Christmas lights lighting up your way.

You can find them everywhere, from the Lisbon Airport all the way to the center, but especially in the center.

You can also stroll by Avenida da Liberdade to experience the lights they’ve set up here. In general, you can find Christmas lights everywhere in Lisbon during December.

4. See the viewpoints

There are many viewpoints in Lisbon, but officially, there are seven—that’s the seven hills of Lisbon.

You don’t have to target this for a day, but wherever you are in this beautiful city, you’re always close to a viewpoint. Do yourself a favor and stop by, look at the city, and take it all in.

If you set it as a goal to see all viewpoints, then bring comfortable shoes, because even though you can explore the city on foot, it’s still super hilly.

5. Take a Food Tour

The food in Lisbon is amazing, and the Portuguese wines are as well. It’s of such high quality, but you pay a fraction of what you would in France and Italy, for example.

So plan a food tour in Lisbon. Visit some Lisbon restaurants, wine bars, and cafés, and eat a little bit at each place to enjoy a variety of food.

Some of the things to eat could be:

• A bifana
• A pastel de nata
• Chestnuts
• Francesinha
• Timeout Market(Multiple restaurants in one place)

6. Visit some beautiful Parks

Even though it’s winter and there might not be green leaves everywhere, it doesn’t change the fact that the parks and gardens in Lisbon are still super beautiful.

I still remember the many date nights I had with my partner in Jardim da Estrela in the winter months; it’s just magical.

Bring a coat, and then enjoy a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa on a bench in one of the many beautiful parks in Lisbon, a European city.

7. Shop at Flea Markets

The flea markets don’t stop just because it’s December and getting a little cold. You’ll still be able to experience Feira da Ladra and the flea market at Avenida da Liberdade.

So, if you’re on the lookout for something special, visit the flea markets because you always find something interesting.

Just be there when it all starts, so all the good things are still available.

8. Day Trip To Belem

Belem is just 20 minutes from Chiado, and here you get to experience the famous Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Pasteis de Belem, and much more.

It’s a perfect place to enjoy a day in these winter seasons, where you combine food and monuments and have an enjoyable time.

Skip the line and buy your tickets in advance.

9. Day Trip To Sintra

Sintra is another magical hotspot, 1 hour by train(Often faster), where you can experience beautiful nature and castles as well.

Get here early so you don’t waste too much of the daylight in these winter days; it’s all worth it.

10. Celebrate New Year

Lastly, we have the New Year because it is still December.

The new year in Lisbon is special because it is one of the warmer winter destinations in Europe.

You will hear traditional music(Fado), watch beautiful fireworks over the Tagus River, and celebrate with the Portuguese people. It is truly a wonderful experience.

Weather in December in Lisbon

The weather in December in Lisbon is surprisingly mild, with temperatures around 15°C (59°F) during the day and 4°C (41°F) at night.

However, December is also the second wettest month in Lisbon, with an average rainfall of 127 millimeters (5 inches).

So if your accommodation doesn’t provide you with umbrellas, bring one or buy one upon arrival. Bring a raincoat, but more on that in the next section.

What to Pack and Wear for Lisbon in December

When the weather gets a little chilly, depending on how much you freeze, you need to pack to meet your needs.

I usually pack a medium-thick jacket, it’s very important that it’s not too thick, and then pants and some sneakers. I also bring a winter jacket, but I rarely use it.

A fun fact: I’ve often walked in long pants and a short-sleeved T-shirt in the baking sun in December in Lisbon.

However, you want to be prepared, so some of the things you can think about bringing are:

• Boots (Not too warm)
• A thin scarf
• Some thin gloves
• A hat
• Umbrella, if your hotel doesn’t offer you one to borrow.
• Long pants
• Bring a mix of fall and winter clothes. Bring a few short-sleeved tops as well, or buy them in Lisbon, a great place to shop.

Wrap Up

December in Lisbon is magical with the Christmas markets and festive lights. To see how it compares to other months, check my best time to visit Lisbon guide.

I recommend everyone visit Lisbon in December because it doesn’t freeze over like many other European cities, and you can experience the hilly capital with fewer tourists.

December is magical in Lisbon, where they go the extra mile with Christmas celebrations, featuring lights, a huge Christmas tree, events, and more.

You can also extend your trip to nearby cities such as Sintra, Cascais, or Belém.

I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful trip with the guidance you’ve just read.

Now, back to the Christmas Markets, there are 11 you need to know about.

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