15°C / 59°F highs; mild but rainy days with ~10–15 wet days
What to eat in Lisbon in December: Seasonal delicacies
December in Lisbon brings cozy charm to the city’s hills. Holiday lights twinkle across Baixa and Chiado, Christmas markets fill squares, and Fado bars glow with late-night warmth. Crowds are low until New Year’s Eve, making it a smart time for museums and cafes. Tip: many attractions close early Dec 24–25, so plan visits accordingly.
| Category | November | December | January |
|---|---|---|---|
Weather | 18 °C / 12 °C, wettest month | 15 °C / 9 °C, damp and mild | 15 °C / 8 °C, cool & damp |
Crowds & vibe | Low except during Web Summit | Quiet early; festive & busy late | Low; peaceful and post-holiday |
Key events | Web Summit, St. Martin’s Day | Christmas lights, Wonderland Lisboa | CCB New Year’s Concert, Dia de Reis |
Best for | Museum lovers, deal hunters | Holiday markets, local culture | Foodies, off-season travelers |
Book early? | Only during Web Summit | Yes, for Dec 24–31 restaurants/events | Not usually |
Transport notes | Some weather delays, no strikes | Holiday schedules on 24–25 & 31 | Limited service Jan 1 |
Budget | Low except Nov 10–13 spike | Low-mid; NYE week spikes prices | Lowest of the year |
| Event | Dates | Event Type | Location | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Wonderland Lisboa | 1 Dec 2025 – 1 Jan 2026 | Holiday Market | Parque Eduardo VII | Outdoor Christmas fair with ice rink, Ferris wheel, food trucks, and Santa’s Village. Free entry, festive all month. |
Natalis Fair | 4–8 Dec 2025 (TBC) | Christmas Market / Trade Fair | FIL Expo | Lisbon’s largest indoor Christmas market with crafts, wine, chocolate, and gourmet gifts. Weekdays are less crowded. |
New Year’s Eve Fireworks | 31 Dec 2025 | Public Celebration | Praça do Comércio | Free concerts start ~10 pm, fireworks at midnight over the Tejo River. Very crowded—arrive early, avoid driving. |
Fado in Chiado Christmas Concerts | 1–23 Dec 2025 (select nights) | Music Concert | Cine Theatro Gymnasio, Chiado | Holiday editions of the famed Fado show blending festive Portuguese songs. Weekends sell out—book early. |
International Organ Festival | Late Nov–early Dec 2025 (TBC) | Classical Music Festival | Historic churches citywide | Pipe organ concerts in venues like Igreja de São Vicente de Fora. Mostly free; bring warm clothing. |
1. Most museums and attractions close by 1 pm on Dec 24 & 31, and many are shut all day Dec 25.
2. Keep an umbrella handy—December averages 10+ rainy days, often with brief afternoon downpours.
3. Public transport runs on holiday schedules Dec 24–25 and 31–1; check Metro Lisboa and Carris apps.
4. Reserve NYE dinners and rooftop parties by early December; top spots fill up weeks ahead.
5. Wear non-slip shoes: cobblestones get slick in rain, especially in Alfama or Bairro Alto.
6. Avoid driving downtown Dec 31–1; many roads close early for fireworks setup.
7. Plan indoor afternoons: museums, shopping arcades, or a steamy hammam session.
8. Look for seasonal lights along Avenida da Liberdade and the riverside tree near Cais das Colunas.
9. Bring a scarf for churches: many are unheated and chilly inside.
10. Don’t expect snow—Lisbon stays mild, but festive charm comes from lights, music, and pastry aromas.
No, Lisbon stays mild for Europe. Expect highs around 15 °C / 59 °F and lows around 9 °C / 48 °F, with damp, rainy spells.
Yes. Most close early on December 24 and remain shut on the 25th. Plan ahead and book any festive meals well in advance.
Yes. Thousands gather downtown for concerts and fireworks. Expect crowds at Praça do Comércio and road closures after 6 pm.
Yes. December 26 is not a public holiday in Portugal, so shops, museums, and attractions resume regular hours.
No, but if you’re taking trains for day trips near Christmas or NYE, reserve tickets early as some fill up.
Baixa-Chiado or Avenida da Liberdade offer central access, lights, and easy transport. Belém is quieter but festive.
Yes. Lisbon is generally safe, even at night. Stick to lit areas and be alert in party zones or on NYE.
Yes. Most walking, food, and museum tours operate year-round. Early December is quieter and easier to book last minute.
Absolutely. Just wear layers—it’s colder in Sintra. Attractions stay open except on Dec 25.
Layers, a warm coat, scarf, and waterproof shoes. Streets are often wet and the wind near the river can feel chilly.
Yes. Most shops and restaurants accept cards, but carry some cash for trams, small cafes, or street snacks.
It can be if you plan multiple museum visits and transit rides over 2–3 days. Check included sights and hours.
Mostly with family meals on Dec 24, Mass, and Bolo Rei. Many spend the 25th at home, so streets are calm.
Yes! The best routes are Chiado to Baixa, down Rua Augusta, and along Avenida da Liberdade to the riverside tree.
Definitely. Look for bacalhau dishes, rabanadas, sonhos, and Bolo Rei in bakeries and restaurant menus all December.
Comforting green soup made from kale, potato, and chouriço—perfect on a damp day.
Where to eat: A Gina, near Parque Eduardo VII
Sliced bread soaked in milk and egg, fried, then dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Served warm during the holidays.
Where to eat: Confeitaria Nacional, Praça da Figueira
A ring-shaped cake with candied fruit and nuts, eaten from Christmas to Epiphany.
Where to eat: Pastelaria Versailles, Avenida da República
Golden doughnut-like fritters rolled in sugar and often served with egg cream.
Where to eat: Pastelaria São Roque, Bairro Alto
Street vendors roast them fresh; perfect for warming up your hands and stomach.
Where to eat: Vendors around Rossio Square and Baixa
