Winter In Lisbon: The Best Time Off-Season (Travel Guide)

The Winter in Lisbon is incredible because it’s not that cold(It’s actually often sunny), it’s less crowded, and most attractions are still open.

I love visiting Lisbon during the winter because of these reasons, and many more which I’ll come in on.

The weather in the winter is usually around 10°C-15°C (50°F – 59°F), so it’s not as cold as you might think.

So, if you’re thinking about experiencing winter in Lisbon, I can only tell you that you should.

Why Visit Lisbon in The Winter?

When you think of Lisbon, you might think of summer and sun, but winter is just as romantic and has many benefits.

I’ve been to Lisbon during the winter multiple times, and it’s super cozy.

Of course, you can experience Christmas, but it’s also cheaper and not as cold as you might think.

Travel Expenses

The winter is off-season in Lisbon, and this also means you’ll be able to get cheaper flight tickets and accommodation.

I like to stay at hotels, but you still get better prices on both hostels and Airbnb as well.

Be aware that if you travel around Christmas, you might see some expensive stays, so ensure you navigate around those days if you want to keep costs down.

But if you’re visiting in January or February, there is no problem with flight tickets or accommodation.

Winter Weather

During the winter in Lisbon, the weather varies a lot, but it’s not as cold as where I’m from, for example(Denmark).

The official temperatures stay around 10°C-15°C (50°F – 59°F), but I’ve experienced temperatures higher than that.

I’ve often been walking around in pants and a T-shirt, and even with the many funny looks from the Portuguese, it feels good when the sun is out.

Don’t get distracted by the many wearing scarves and thick jackets. It’s quite a fun experience.

Fewer People

Another benefit of visiting Lisbon in the winter months is that it is less crowded than in the summer.

Of course, going to the beach is not something you might do. But the wait time at restaurants and the many monuments is minimal, and it’s quite surreal to experience if you’ve been to Lisbon during the summer.

You can just walk to any restaurant or place without a reservation and get right in.

Things To Do During Winter in Lisbon

The Portuguese capital is yours when you visit during the winter season. You get to do so much more because you avoid the summer crowds.

Here are some of the things I recommend you do in these magical winter days of your trip to Lisbon.

• Praça do Comércio: This is a beautiful square in Chiado surrounded by Portuguese restaurants that serve great Portuguese food. It’s a bit touristy, but you won’t see many people during the winter. You have a view of the Tagus River one way and Chiado in the other direction.
• Botanical Garden: If you’re into beautiful gardens, visit the Botanical Garden in Lisbon. It’s located super central in Principe Real. It’s beautiful, and whatever the weather is outside, I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.
• Belém: 20 minutes by car or a short trip by train, and you’re in Belem, right next to central Lisbon, where you have endless things to do. Visit Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, and taste a delicious Pasteis de Belem. You can easily spend an entire day in Belem.
• The 7 Hills in Lisbon: Lisbon is known for its beautiful sights, and there are 7 hills in Lisbon. While I don’t recommend you make it a mission for a day unless you want to, just be aware of where they are so that when you explore the city, you stop by the viewpoints to take some photos; it’s magnificent.
• Alfama: The oldest part of Lisbon is Alfama, and if you’re into small, narrow streets with a romantic vibe, then this is the place to be. You also have monuments like the Sao Jorge Castelo, multiple beautiful churches, and the famous flea market Feira da Ladra.
• Day Trips From Lisbon: You can make a day trip to Sintra, Coimbra, or Cascais. With fewer tourists in Lisbon and the surrounding areas, you can get to these places quickly and experience everything without having to wait in line and be back on the same day.

What to Wear During Winter in Lisbon

It’s important you pack a variety of clothing as the temperatures switch a lot.

If you’re lucky, you might have sun your entire time in Lisbon, but prepare for every scenario.

I usually pack:

• An umbrella (Unless the hotel I’m staying at has one)
• Pants
• T-shirts
• A jacket (Not too thin, not too thick)
• Comfortable shoes (It might be slippery because of the weather)
• A backpack you can bring around on your excursions.
• If you’re freezing easily, bring a warm jacket, boots, scarf, and gloves.

Travel Tips For Visiting Lisbon in The Winter

I’ve just collected some quick tips if you’re thinking about visiting Lisbon in the winter.

1. Bring a variety of clothing as the temperatures switch a lot during this season.
2. It might rain a lot, but don’t let it stop you from exploring the city; there are also a lot of indoor things to do in Lisbon.
3. Bring shoes that are not too slippery; when it rains, the cobblestones get extremely slippery (Trust me, I’ve been close to falling many times).
4. Try all the things you’ve dreamed of, now where there are no queues. That means Santa Justa Lift, Tram 28, Belem Tower, and more.
5. If you’re in Lisbon during Christmas, check out their many markets and experience the lights in Chiado; it’s magical.

Wrap-Up

If you’re unsure whether to visit Lisbon in the winter, I can tell you that you must do it.

You get to experience Lisbon less crowded, not as hot, but still beautiful and super sunny.

When I’m in Lisbon during the winter, I often wear a T-shirt and pants, and I’m comfortable. It’s not as cold as you may think.

So book that trip now to Lisbon. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. If you’re there for Christmas, make sure to check out the Christmas markets and many activities; it’s a beautiful sight to experience the Winter in Lisbon.

FAQ