THE BEST CITIES TO VISIT FOR
CHRISTMAS IN PORTUGAL IN 2024
Christmas in Portugal is a magical time where ancient traditions and festive celebrations blend harmoniously to create an unforgettable holiday experience. From the shimmering lights that illuminate the cities to the warmth of local customs, Christmas markets, and delightful cuisine, Portugal’s cities transform into enchanting winter wonderlands. In this guide, we’ll take you through five of the best cities to visit for Christmas in Portugal in 2024, where you can truly experience the charm and joy of the season. Plus, we’ll recommend the best places to stay so you’ll be at the heart of the festivities.
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LISBON - A GLITTERING CAPITAL CELEBRATION
Lisbon’s festive spirit is undeniable during the holiday season, making it one of the best cities to visit for Christmas in Portugal in 2024. As the capital, it offers a magical Christmas atmosphere with an impressive display of lights, lively markets, and holiday events spread throughout the city.
Highlights:
Wonderland Lisboa: Held in Eduardo VII Park, this Christmas market is a festive hub offering everything from artisanal gifts to outdoor ice skating and rides for children. November 29, 2024 – January 5, 2025.
Lisbon’s Christmas Lights: Walk along Avenida da Liberdade and Baixa-Chiado to admire the dazzling Christmas lights that give the city its festive glow. November 24, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
Natalis Fair: A family-oriented fair at FIL (Lisbon International Fair) featuring indoor ice skating, concerts, and stalls selling holiday treats and gifts. Early December 2024.
Where to Stay:
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa – A luxury hotel ideally located near the city's main Christmas attractions, offering stunning views of the festive lights.
Hotel Santa Justa – Situated in the heart of Baixa-Chiado, it’s perfect for exploring Lisbon’s Christmas markets and main shopping streets.
Christmas Food to Try:
Bacalhau de Consoada: Portugal’s traditional Christmas Eve dish, featuring salted cod with boiled potatoes, cabbage, and egg.
Rabanadas: Portuguese-style French toast, typically flavored with cinnamon and sugar, a Christmas must-try.
Insider Tip: Make sure to take the Eléctrico 28 tram in the evening for a scenic ride through the beautifully lit streets of Lisbon.
For a detailed itinerary, check out our ultimate Lisbon guide, featuring top activities, hotels, and day trips.
PORTO - A CHRISTMAS BY THE DOURO RIVER
Porto, with its charming medieval streets and the iconic Douro River, is one of the best cities to visit for Christmas in Portugal in 2024. The city takes on a magical atmosphere during the festive season, combining rich traditions with modern celebrations.
Highlights:
Christmas Village at Avenida dos Aliados: Porto’s central square turns into a Christmas village, complete with festive lights, a giant Christmas tree, and market stalls selling crafts and seasonal treats. December 1, 2024 – January 7, 2025.
Porto Christmas Market at Jardim do Palácio de Cristal: Nestled in one of the city’s most scenic parks, this market offers local handicrafts, food, and a festive atmosphere with stunning views over the Douro River. November 30 – December 23, 2024.
Christmas Concerts at Casa da Música: The city’s modern concert hall hosts special Christmas performances, featuring classical music and holiday-themed shows throughout December.
Where to Stay:
Pestana Vintage Porto – Located on the riverfront, this hotel offers stunning views of the Douro and is close to Porto’s Christmas market.
InterContinental Porto - Palácio das Cardosas – A luxurious hotel in a restored 18th-century palace near Avenida dos Aliados, offering elegant rooms and top-tier service during the holiday season.
Christmas Food to Try:
Filhós: Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon and sugar, popular during the holiday season in Porto.
Bolo Rei: A traditional Portuguese Christmas cake filled with dried fruits and nuts, often served at family gatherings.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Avenida dos Aliados, which is scheduled for December 1, 2024. The event will feature live performances and fireworks, attracting tens of thousands of people to celebrate the official start of the holiday season in Porto.
For a detailed itinerary, check out our ultimate Porto guide, featuring top activities, hotels, and day trips.
MADEIRA - A FESTIVE ISLAND GETAWAY
Madeira is renowned as one of the best places to visit for Christmas in Portugal, thanks to its spectacular holiday and New Year’s Eve celebrations. Funchal, the island’s capital, transforms into a festive wonderland with one of the world’s most beautiful New Year’s Eve fireworks displays.
Highlights:
Funchal Christmas Market: The main market in Funchal’s center features handicrafts, food stalls, and live music performances. You’ll find everything from local wines to traditional Christmas sweets. December 1, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
New Year’s Eve Fireworks: One of the most famous fireworks displays in the world, held in Funchal’s harbor. The celebration attracts visitors from around the globe. December 31, 2024.
Christmas Lights Display: The streets of Funchal are covered with an impressive light display that illuminates the entire city, creating a truly magical atmosphere. December 1, 2024 – January 7, 2025.
Where to Stay:
Belmond Reid’s Palace – A luxurious clifftop hotel offering panoramic views of Funchal and a front-row seat to the New Year’s fireworks.
The Vine Hotel – A modern, centrally located hotel perfect for exploring Funchal’s Christmas market and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Christmas Food to Try:
Bolo de Mel: A rich and dense honey cake, traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season in Madeira.
Espetada: Skewered meat grilled over an open flame, a festive favorite for Christmas gatherings.
Insider Tip: Book your accommodation early if you plan to stay in Funchal for New Year’s Eve, as it’s one of the island’s busiest times of year.
For a detailed itinerary, check out our ultimate Madeira guide, with activities, accommodations, and day trip recommendations.
COIMBRA - A HISTORIC CHRISTMAS IN PORTUGAL'S ACADEMIC HEART
Coimbra is one of the best cities to visit for Christmas in Portugal in 2024. Known for its historic university, the city offers a quieter yet equally charming Christmas experience. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with festive lights and local traditions, makes it a perfect destination for a festive escape.
Highlights:
Christmas Lights at Praça 8 de Maio: The heart of Coimbra comes alive with twinkling lights and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, creating a picturesque setting for holiday strolls. December 1, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
Coimbra Christmas Market: Set in the city’s historic center, this market offers a variety of crafts, food, and Christmas decorations. December 2, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
Fado de Coimbra Christmas Concerts: Experience Coimbra’s traditional fado music with special Christmas-themed performances in the city’s historic halls. Throughout December 2024.
Where to Stay:
Hotel Quinta das Lágrimas – A luxury boutique hotel set in beautiful gardens, perfect for a peaceful Christmas getaway.
Sapientia Boutique Hotel – Located in the historic center, this hotel offers easy access to Coimbra’s main Christmas attractions.
Christmas Food to Try:
Arroz Doce: Creamy rice pudding flavored with cinnamon, a festive dessert often served during Christmas in Coimbra.
Broas Castelares: Sweet, pumpkin-based cookies, popular during the holiday season.
Insider Tip: Visit Coimbra’s University for its holiday concerts and events, which are often held in its grand halls, adding a touch of history to your Christmas celebration.
For a detailed itinerary, check out our ultimate Coimbra guide, with activities, accommodations, and day trip recommendations.
EVORA - A CHRISTMAS IN THE ALENTEJO REGION
Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best cities to visit for Christmas in Portugal in 2024. With its peaceful and historic backdrop, the city’s medieval charm and relaxed pace make it an ideal destination for a traditional Christmas getaway. The cobblestone streets and ancient architecture offer a magical atmosphere perfect for the holiday season.
Highlights:
Evora Christmas Market: Set in the city’s Praça do Giraldo, this market features local crafts, seasonal food, and live performances, creating a festive atmosphere in the heart of Alentejo. December 10, 2024 – January 6, 2025.
Christmas Lights in the Historic Center: Wander through Evora’s ancient streets, which are beautifully illuminated with Christmas lights during the holiday season.
Three Kings Parade: Evora’s intimate Three Kings Parade is a local favorite, taking place on January 5th, 2025 and bringing the city together to celebrate.
Where to Stay:
Pousada Convento de Evora – A historic convent-turned-hotel located in the heart of Evora’s old town, perfect for a quiet and cozy Christmas.
Albergaria do Calvário – A charming boutique hotel set within Evora’s medieval walls, offering a warm and welcoming holiday retreat.
Christmas Food to Try:
Sericaia: A traditional Alentejo dessert made from eggs, cinnamon, and sugar, often served with plums.
Azevias: Fried pastries filled with a sweet mixture of chickpeas, sugar, and cinnamon, popular during Christmas in the Alentejo.
Insider Tip: Evora’s ancient Roman temple looks especially magical when illuminated by Christmas lights, so make sure to take a walk in the evening to capture the festive charm.
For a detailed itinerary, check out our ultimate Evora guide, with activities, accommodations, and day trip recommendations.
READY FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS IN PORTUGAL?
From the twinkling lights of Lisbon to the peaceful charm of Evora, Christmas in Portugal promises something special for every traveler. If you're drawn to vibrant festive markets, traditional holiday feasts, or spectacular New Year’s celebrations, these cities offer an unforgettable experience. To make the most of your trip, plan early and choose accommodations near the heart of the festivities for a truly magical Christmas in Portugal.