Lisbon, bright sunny days, wine bars, trams breezing through historic streets. It’s safe to say, December is not often a month that’s associated with Lisbon. So, what does Lisbon offer in December? It’s firmly the low-season and the weather has got chilly, but as Christmas approaches things in Lisbon start to feel quite special. You’ll find dazzling light displays, Christmas markets, and the smell of chestnuts roasting on charcoal grills. Keep reading to find out why you should visit Lisbon for your next winter getaway!
Why trust me? I’ve now lived in Lisbon for two years and have been able to experience everything this incredible city offers year-round!
What’s the Weather Like in Lisbon in December?
Lisbon’s mediterranean climate means temperatures typically range from 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F) during December. Providing a pleasant escape from harsher climates elsewhere, during the day time these are great temperatures to be outside and exploring.
On average though, December is often the rainiest month of the year, so although the temperatures are mild things can get wet. Bring an umbrella or pack a waterproof jacket!
Why Visit Lisbon in December? 5 Great Reasons
We’ve covered the weather above, so now let’s dive into 5 more reasons Lisbon is a fantastic destination to visit in December.
1. It’s quieter – giving you the freedom to explore Lisbon fully
December is firmly the low season. Mass tourist crowds are gone and won’t be returning to the city any time soon. A side effect here is the prices are often at their lowest during this time. You can get some great deals on some of the best hotels outside of the peak Christmas and New Year days of 24th, 25th, and 31st.
Lisbon’s biggest tourist attractions? Feel free to wonder around them at a relaxed pace with almost none of the usual crowds. I’ve rarely seen queues at São Jorge Castle and Jerónimos Monastery during December.
2. Christmas Light Displays
Now for my favourite reason of what makes Lisbon so special during December. The Christmas light displays. Each parish in Lisbon (a type of local council) does it displays differently which means you can wonder from area to area and discover a new Christmas light display on almost every corner.
Lisbon is a pretty walkable city, and my favourite December activity is to explore it by foot. Each praça has its light displays, the historic buildings and churches? Also covered in Christmas lights.
Find out more: Here’s my favourite walking route to admire lots of displays!
3. Christmas Markets and Winter Wonderland
Once again, Lisbon might not be the first place you think of when it comes to Christmas markets. Yet, each neighbourhood has its very own. Rossio, Alvalade, Campo Pequeno to name just a few. You’ll find your traditional German style Christmas huts serving local delicacies and lots of local outlets for you to do some Christmas shopping!
The biggest and best is perhaps Winter Wonderland in Parque Eduardo, it’s much bigger than a Christmas market and its star attraction is its large ferris wheel that operates for the whole of December.
Find out more: Christmas Markets in Lisbon
4. Lisbon’s Food Scene and Portuguese Christmas Food
Lisbon’s food scene is now world famous, the likes of Pasteis de Nata, Ginjinha and Bifana gracing every guide to Lisbon’s food. However, during December things take a more festive turn.
Chestnuts over charcoal grills, buckets of Vinho Quente (Portugal’s take on mulled wine), and food trucks selling Faturas and Rabanadas – Portugal’s very churros! Visiting Lisbon in December gives you the opportunity to experience its usually great food scene as well at its festive food scene!
Read More: Portuguese Christmas Food
5. New Years Eve in Lisbon
As the clock strikes midnight, the city’s iconic Praça do Comércio becomes the focal point of Lisbon’s celebrations. Thousands gather in this iconic plaza to watch the biggest fireworks display in Portugal and listen to live music afterwards. If the celebrations at Praça do Comércio are too hectic for you, then you can head up, or down the river to quieter viewing spots.
You’ll also find smaller parties at all of Lisbon’s famous miradouros, as people gather to watch the many firework displays that take over the cities skyline at midnight.
Does it Snow in Lisbon in December?
It doesn’t, at least it hasn’t since 2006, and before that it was 1956! Don’t expect snow in Lisbon anytime soon. Due to its mild wet climate, temperatures rarely fall low enough for it to freeze or get snowfall. IF you’re looking for snow, you can head
Will you be Visiting Lisbon this December?
Got more ideas you’d like to add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!
