At first, Christmas in the Algarve might sound like a strange proposition. This undeniable summer and well known beach destination for Christmas? Well read on to find out what Christmas is like in the Algarve and why it might be worth a visit at that most magical time of the year!
What’s the Weather like in the Algarve at Christmas?
First up, lets explore the weather and whether the ‘winter sun’ really exists. The Algarve is often called a winter sun destination, a place people can escape colder climates with some beautiful Algarve sunshine! However, it might be sunny, but that doesn’t mean its always warm. At its simplest, the Algarve is mild during winter, especially during December.
How Hot is the Algarve at Christmas?
Temperatures are usually mild, with an average maximum of 17°C. The average minimums are around 10°C, but you’ll want to keep an eye on the wind. You’ll rarely find frost anywhere near the coastline, but head inland to some of the hill towns and you may find frost on the odd morning. This means that during the day, and during the bright sunshine it might even be warm enough for t-shirts and shorts! However, during evenings, and on windy days by the coast you’ll want a jacket or jumper!
Does It Rain During Christmas in The Algarve?
December is one of the wettest months of the year in the Algarve. However, rain is often heavier, and showers much shorter. A stark contrast to the days of continual light rain and showers experienced in the wetter climates of northern Europe. On average, there’s only 11 days of rain during December in the Algarve. With a bit of luck, not many of those 11 days will fall on Christmas or New Year!
Where to Visit and Stay in the Algarve at Christmas?
As a popular summer tourist destination, the Algarve is affected by seasonality. You’ll find some of our usual recommendations – the smaller towns and villages – are at their quietest and in some cases almost closed for the quiet season. It’s for this reason we recommend visiting the larger towns and cities to experience Christmas in the Algarve. Here’s a few of our favourite towns to visit during Christmas:
Faro: Despite being the capital of the Algarve and the main entry route into this tourist hotspot, the city keeps a distinctly low-key and traditional Portuguese feel. At Christmas its historic streets are lit up, and there’s plenty of locals to keep the bars and restaurants lively in the evening.
Lagos: In the west Algarve, Lagos is widely considered a gem. At Christmas its much much quieter than usual, but its town centre is still buzzing. With beaches within walking distance from the town, a Christmas day walk on the beach is a real possibility.
Loule: A traditional market town with a historic core. It’s well known in the area for its Christmas fair (Feira da Serra de Natal) and Christmas lights. Although it’s not quite on the coastline, it’s well worth a day, or evening trip to catch some of its Christmas magic.
Christmas Markets in the Algarve?
Yes, there’s even Christmas markets. Although they’re not traditionally associated with Portugal. You’ll now find typical Christmas markets in several of the major towns in the Algarve, like Faro and Loulé. You’ll be able to pick up local produces like cheese and wine, enjoy a vinho quente (Portuguese mulled wine), and appreciate the Christmas displays.
What do the Portuguese do for Christmas in the Algarve?
The traditional Portuguese Christmas might look a little different to where you’re from. The first and one of the biggest differences is actually the day it’s celebrated. The traditional Christmas lunch is celebrated on the 24th of December, not the 25th. The 24th is the traditional day to gather with your family, exchange gifts, and eat some traditional delicacies – like Bacalhau or Bolo Rei. The celebrations will finish late, and some families will go on to a midnight mass service in their town or village. Following midnight mass is the traditional time to exchange gifts.
The following day, the 25th, is a national holiday, and is treated as a day of rest. You’ll find many bars, restaurants, and public services closed. It’s a day to relax and enjoy some time with your family. In the days leading up to Christmas, you’ll find festas or small celebrations. Towns and even villages will have an array of Christmas decorations and people will gather to explore them. It’s actually one of our favourite things to do – explore all of the towns and their individual Christmas lights!
Why Visit the Algarve for Christmas?
There’s plenty of reasons to visit during Christmas, but perhaps the biggest are the weather, value – it’s the low season and cheap, and of course to experience a different side to the Algarve. Not to mention the festivals and events many of the towns hold for Christmas! Each town lights up rather magically with their own array of Christmas lights! Where else can you find castles and boats covered in sparkling Christmas lights?
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