Visiting Lisbon in December: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Visiting Lisbon in December gives you a softer, more intimate look at Portugal's capital. The city feels calm, the lights feel inviting, and the cooler air adds a pleasant winter mood without being harsh. This guide will help you plan a December trip to Lisbon with clear, practical advice for a smoother and more enjoyable visit.

December in Lisbon brings a quieter charm. The streets are bright with holiday decorations, and the mix of mild days and cooler nights creates an atmosphere that’ll make you want to plan your December trip to Lisbon. It’s a comfortable month for joining the best tours in Lisbon, and it still offers plenty of daylight to enjoy long walks.

Early winter also gives visitors a chance to see the city at a slower pace. Popular attractions, even those near Lisbon’s top hotels, are easier to visit, and everyday life continues in a gentle rhythm that feels welcoming to newcomers.

The sections ahead will guide you through what to expect from the weather, which events to look for, how to prepare, and the most enjoyable things to do during a December visit to Lisbon.

Quick Overview: December Weather in Lisbon

• Daytime temperatures: 57 to 61 F (14 to 16 C)
• Nighttime temperatures: 46 to 52 F (8 to 11 C)
• Rainfall: 3 to 4 inches (80 to 100 mm), usually short showers rather than all-day rain
• Sunshine: 5 to 6 hours per day, with shorter daylight. Lisbon's daylight in December runs from around 7:30 to 17:30
• Humidity: Moderate, around 60 to 70 percent

Even on rainy days, breaks in the clouds make it possible to enjoy indoor and outdoor activities in a single day. Temperatures in Lisbon in December rarely prevent sightseeing, and the soft winter light brings out the city's colorful buildings and historic tiles. Mornings and early afternoons are ideal for long walks or visits to viewpoints.

Packing Tips for Lisbon in December

Knowing what to pack for Lisbon in December ensures you stay comfortable throughout your visit. A warm jacket, a cozy sweater, and shoes with good grip make exploring easier. An umbrella or a light waterproof layer is helpful for sudden showers.

Style Tips for Lisbon in December:

• Stick to neutrals and layers, which help you blend in with locals and adapt to the variable weather.
• A light scarf or accessory adds warmth and a stylish touch.
• Comfortable yet polished shoes are a must for cobbled streets and hills.
• Minimal jewelry or bold patterns keep your look versatile for both daytime sightseeing and evening outings.

Key Dates to Watch

• December 8 (Immaculate Conception): A national public holiday. Some churches, museums, and attractions may have shorter hours, but it can be a quieter day to experience local traditions.
• December 24 (Christmas Eve): Shops and museums often close early. Many restaurants also close in the evening so staff can spend time with family.
• December 25 (Christmas Day): Limited options; only selected restaurants, museums, and cafes remain open. Special masses or services at Lisbon Cathedral and other historic churches offer a memorable look at Lisbon’s holiday traditions.
• December 26 (St. Stephen's Day): Some smaller local observances. Most attractions reopen, but a few restaurants or cultural sites may still be closed.
• December 31 (New Year's Eve): Public transport operates but may be less frequent. Some restaurants and shops close early to prepare for celebrations.
• January 1 (New Year's Day): Many businesses remain closed or open later. For public transport in Lisbon, check the official sites of Metropolitano de Lisboa (metro), Carris (buses, trams, funiculars), CP trains (urban & suburban rail), or Transtejo & Soflusa (Tagus ferries).

Crowds and Accommodation

Early December feels calm, giving visitors a relaxed atmosphere to explore Lisbon. The final week of the month is busier because of the holidays, though it's still gentler than peak summer. Accommodation prices typically rise near Christmas and New Year, so booking early helps secure better choices and value.

If you want to explore the best neighborhoods in Lisbon, popular areas include Baixa, Chiado, Alfama, Principe Real, and Parque das Nacoes. Each offers different experiences, from historic streets and lively nightlife to riverside walks and local shops.

Planning ahead is key during the holiday season. Booking accommodations early ensures better availability, especially if you want to stay in central neighborhoods or near the river. With thoughtful preparation, you can enjoy Lisbon’s charm without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by holiday crowds.

Tips for Enjoying Lisbon During the Holidays

Enjoying Lisbon during December’s festive season is about balancing sightseeing, local traditions, and holiday charm. With a little planning, you can experience the city at a relaxed pace while taking in seasonal events, decorated streets, and the warmth of Portuguese hospitality.

• Check the official websites of Lisbon attractions for the latest opening hours and holiday schedules.
• Attend church services on holiday mornings to experience authentic local traditions.
• Schedule sightseeing for mornings or early afternoons to avoid crowds at popular landmarks.
• Allow flexibility in your plans for restaurants and tours, as holiday hours can change.

Outdoor Activities in Lisbon During December

These outdoor activities in Lisbon make the most of the city’s winter light, mild temperatures, and open-air viewpoints, making them ideal for sunny days when the weather is clear.

Take in Lisbon’s Winter Viewpoints (Miradouros)

Lisbon’s viewpoints are especially beautiful in winter. Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Miradouro de Santa Luzia in Alfama, along with Miradouro da Graca in Graca, offer calm mornings with soft light and clear views of the river, making them perfect for unhurried photography or a peaceful start to the day.

All three viewpoints are free to access, though some paths involve stairs or uneven cobblestones. For travelers with mobility considerations, guided tours in Lisbon using vehicles such as tuk-tuks, electric bikes, or small vans provide a comfortable way to enjoy these vistas without navigating steep hills. These tours also let you combine multiple viewpoints in a single outing, ideal for shorter winter days.

Top Lisbon Viewpoints Tours:

• Lisbon Highlights and Viewpoints E-Bike Tour: Glide through historic neighborhoods effortlessly on an electric bike, stopping at top miradouros for panoramic winter views without climbing steep hills.
• Explore Lisbon's History and Viewpoints by Tuk Tuk: Enjoy a private ride through Lisbon’s hills and viewpoints, including Alfama, Mouraria, and Belem, with a knowledgeable guide sharing local stories.
• Lisbon Sunset Walk Through Hidden Viewpoints With a Local: Discover Miradouro das Portas do Sol and Santa Luzia on a 2.5-hour walking tour, perfect for sunset photography and an intimate look at hidden corners of the city.

Walk Through Belem’s Monuments and Riverside Paths

Belem is perfect for a winter stroll, with riverside paths, gardens, and historic monuments to explore. Highlights include Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery, both of which can be admired from the outside for free.

Tickets are required to enter Belem Tower and the cloisters of Jeronimos Monastery. Travelers can use the Lisboa Card for access to multiple attractions or book a Belem tour with skip-the-line tickets to Jeronimos Monastery to avoid waiting in line and make the most of shorter winter days.

In Belem, visitors can also enjoy the Monument to the Discoveries, a highlight of many historical tours in Lisbon, or go on a self-guided exploration of the Coach Museum. The riverside promenade that links these sites provides a relaxing route even on cooler December days.

Top Belem Tours:

• Belem Tour by Tuk Tuk: Glide through Lisbon’s historic Belem district in a private electric tuk tuk, visiting iconic landmarks. Stop at the famous Pasteis de Belem bakery and enjoy a personalized experience with a local guide who shares the city’s rich history.
• Belem Motorcycle Side-Car Tour: See Lisbon from a vintage motorcycle sidecar, combining adventure with cultural exploration. Pass iconic sites like the Tower of Belem, MAAT, and Carmo Church while enjoying panoramic views along the Tagus River.
• Helicopter Tour over Belem: Take a thrilling helicopter flight over Belem to view UNESCO sites from above. Capture stunning cityscapes and the winding Tagus River for a unique perspective of Lisbon’s maritime heritage.

Ride the Historic Tram 28 Through Winter Streets

Tram 28 is a charming way to explore Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, especially on crisp December days when the city’s hills and narrow streets feel peaceful. This iconic red tram winds through Alfama, Graca, Mouraria, and Baixa, offering glimpses of tiled façades, traditional squares, and hillside streets with panoramic views.

The route passes notable sights such as Castelo de Sao Jorge, Lisbon Cathedral, and scenic miradouros including Graca, Senhora do Monte, Portas do Sol, and Santa Luzia.

Tickets often come as part of a 24-hour public transport pass, such as the Tram 28 24-Hour Pass, which provides unlimited access to trams, buses, funiculars, and the Santa Justa Lift. Options with audio guides, like the Red Tram Tour by Tram 28 Route 24-Hour Ticket, offer multilingual commentary and discounts at select shops and attractions.

Trams generally operate from early morning until late evening, with minor adjustments on public holidays like December 25 and January 1. Note that historic Tram 28 cars have high steps and narrow doors, which may make boarding difficult for travelers with mobility challenges.

Take a December Day Trip to Sintra

A day trip to Sintra remains enchanting in winter and is widely regarded as one of the best day trips from Lisbon. The cooler air suits the forested hills, and the palaces feel even more atmospheric under crisp December skies. Clear days offer the best visibility from viewpoints like Pena Palace.

This excursion fits naturally into a 3-day itinerary in Lisbon. Sintra can be reached by train from Rossio Station, by renting a car in Lisbon, or via organized tours and excursions.

Top Sintra Experiences From Lisbon:

• Pena Palace and Park Entrance Ticket: Step into Pena Palace and its lush parklands, where vibrant colors and romantic 19th-century architecture create an unforgettable setting. This ticket grants access to the palace, the surrounding gardens, and the hidden Chalet of the Countess of Edla, allowing you to explore at your own pace with optional audio guides.
• Sintra and Cascais Small-Group Day Trip: Combine history, coastal views, and UNESCO heritage on this small-group day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and Cascais. Explore the lush trails of Pena Park, admire Pena Palace, take in the dramatic cliffs of Cabo da Roca, and stroll through Cascais’ charming seaside streets, all in one seamless, guided adventure.
• Sintra Full-Day Private Tour: Discover Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces, mystical gardens, and historic castles on a tour tailored to your interests. With skip-the-line access to Pena Palace, visits to Quinta da Regaleira, and stops at Cabo da Roca and Cascais, this tour combines scenic landscapes, local history, and personalized guidance for a complete experience.

Indoor and Rainy-Day Activities in Lisbon

When the weather turns wet or windy, you can explore museums, cultural attractions, and other rainy-day activities in Lisbon without interrupting your plans.

Spend a Day at Lisbon’s Museums

Museums provide cozy indoor experiences during December, and with cheap entry tickets & passes in Lisbon, it’s easy to explore a variety of attractions without stretching your budget. These tickets allow visitors to enjoy rainy days in Lisbon, making it simple to mix art, history, and immersive experiences on a winter visit.

Top Lisbon Museum Experiences:

• Oceanario de Lisboa Entrance Ticket: Ideal for families, offering a peaceful winter activity among marine life.
• MAAT Gallery and MAAT Central Entry Tickets: Combines contemporary architecture with rotating exhibitions.
• National Tile Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: Dive into Portugal’s rich artistic traditions.
• Luz Stadium Tour & SL Benfica Museum Entry: Explore football history at one of Portugal’s most iconic stadiums.
• Banksy Museum Permanent Exhibition Entry Ticket: Discover thought-provoking street art in Lisbon.

Try Lisbon’s Food Halls and Indoor Markets

Food halls such as Time Out Market provide a comfortable, indoor space to sample a wide variety of dishes without having to move around in bad weather. Smaller neighborhood markets like Mercado de Campo de Ourique or Mercado de Santa Clara offer quieter atmospheres and a chance to explore local flavors and artisanal products, giving visitors a taste of Lisbon life.

Many of these markets remain open year-round, though hours can be slightly shorter in December, so checking ahead is recommended. Travelers looking for culinary tours in Lisbon can explore local flavors in covered markets, participate in hands-on cooking classes, and enjoy tastings at wineries, perfect for cooler December days or rainy weather.

Top Culinary Tours With Market Visits:

• Lisbon Market and Food Tour with Cooking Class and Lunch: Explore a covered local market before heading indoors for a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll prepare a Portuguese meal and enjoy it with local wines.
• Lisbon Cooking Class with Market Experience: Visit a market that may include open-air and indoor stalls, then spend the majority of the experience indoors in the kitchen, learning to cook classic dishes.
• Winery Visit & Setubal Fish Market Tour: Sample local wines at the indoor winery tasting room and stroll through Mercado do Livramento, a covered fish market, before exploring outdoor historic sites in Setubal.

Evening and Cultural Experiences in December

Evenings in Lisbon remain lively throughout December, offering cultural experiences, live performances, and festive walks that suit both relaxed and active travelers. Cooler nights make indoor events especially cozy, while holiday lights add a warm glow to the city streets.

Attend Fado Performances After Sunset

Traditional Fado houses in neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto offer intimate evening shows. December is ideal for attending Fado shows, as the cooler weather creates a cozy atmosphere indoors, and many venues host special seasonal concerts.

Top Fado Tours:

• Fado Show with Port Wine at Historic Lisboa em Fado: Experience authentic Fado in a historic Baixa venue with award-winning singers and musicians, limited to just 45 guests for an intimate performance. Enjoy a complimentary glass of Port wine while learning about Fado’s origins and the Portuguese guitar in a cozy, unamplified setting.
• Fado Show and Wine inside Medieval Walls: Discover Portugal’s soulful music in an atmospheric venue within Lisbon’s Castle Quarter, surrounded by medieval walls and historic stone arches. Each performance includes stories and insights into Fado’s heritage, paired with a glass of Portuguese wine for a memorable cultural evening.
• Tapas & Drinks with Fado Live Performance: Enjoy a 3-hour evening of live Fado music at Associacao do Fado Casto, combined with traditional Portuguese tapas and local wine. The intimate setting and communal tables create a warm atmosphere that highlights Lisbon’s musical and culinary traditions.

See Lisbon’s City Lights from the Water

Evenings in December are ideal for sunset cruises in Lisbon. Glide along the Tagus or Tejo rivers as the city lights come alive, capturing illuminated monuments and bridges while enjoying a calm, scenic setting that complements daytime sightseeing.

Top Sunset Cruises:

• Sunset Boat Party Cruise with DJ and Open Bar: Celebrate Lisbon at sunset on a lively boat party along the Tagus River, complete with an onboard DJ setting the soundtrack as the city lights emerge. Enjoy unlimited drinks while gliding past landmarks like Commerce Square, Belem Tower, and the 25th of April Bridge in a small, festive group.
• Sunset Cruise on a Traditional Boat: Experience Lisbon’s historic waterfront aboard a charming 1947 traditional boat, with hand-painted details and complimentary wine as the sun sets. Glide past iconic sights including Sao Jorge Castle, Alfama, Belem Tower, and the Monument to the Discoveries.
• Sunset Catamaran Cruise, Music and Open Bar: Set sail on the River Tejo for a sunset catamaran cruise, enjoying live music, an open bar, and pastries while admiring illuminated landmarks. Highlights include Belem Tower, Padrao dos Descobrimentos, and Cristo Rei, offering spectacular views from the water.

Experience Holiday Concerts and Cultural Events at Night

Churches and cultural centers host holiday concerts and classical music performances throughout December. These events offer a quieter alternative to nightlife and a chance to enjoy local traditions in historic settings.

When attending performances in Lisbon’s churches, visitors are expected to follow a few simple guidelines. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees, keep voices low, avoid flash photography unless clearly allowed, and remain seated during concerts or services.

The Lisbon Classical Nights Concert at Saint Paul’s Church is a wonderful option for an intimate cultural experience. This 50-minute classical guitar performance takes place in a beautifully preserved Pombaline interior and is limited to just 20 seats. Talented musicians share brief stories behind each piece, creating a warm and personal atmosphere that feels authentically Portuguese.

Stroll Through Decorated Streets After Dark

Lisbon feels especially festive in December, with illuminated avenues, decorated plazas, and lively holiday displays throughout the city. The cooler evenings make it ideal for slow, atmospheric strolls where you can enjoy the lights without daytime crowds.

Start on Avenida da Liberdade, where elegant trees and upscale storefronts glow with seasonal lights. Continue toward Restauradores and Rossio Square, both known for photogenic Christmas installations and a lively winter atmosphere.

Walk into Baixa, where Rua Augusta’s arch and surrounding streets are fully illuminated, then finish in Chiado, a lovely area for window-shopping, cafes, and views over the decorated lower town.

This route is flat, family-friendly, and easy to enjoy before or after dinner. It's ideal for exploring at your own pace, but guided Christmas lights tours can add value through expert commentary, comfortable transportation, and access to quieter viewpoints.

Top Lisbon Christmas Lights Tours:

• Lisbon's Christmas Lights Tour: A two-hour guided route through Baixa, Rossio, Restauradores, Bairro Alto, Bica, Cais do Sodre, Principe Real, and Santos. It features many of the city’s most photogenic displays, and small-group departures allow for frequent stops to enjoy the lights.
• Christmas Lights Tour of Lisbon in Private Eco Tuk Tuk: A one-hour experience ideal for those who prefer a quicker, private overview. The route typically includes the Baixa district, Chiado, and Campo de Ourique Market, offering a comfortable way to see the main light displays without walking long distances.

Enjoy Bars and Nightlife Later in the Evening

December brings a more relaxed, local atmosphere to Lisbon's nightlife, with bars less crowded than summer months but still maintaining excellent energy. Many venues add subtle festive touches without losing their authentic character.

Start your evening in Bairro Alto, Lisbon's historic nightlife district, where narrow cobblestone streets come alive with small bars spilling warm light and conversation onto the sidewalks. This bohemian neighborhood is perfect for bar hopping, with most venues opening around 19:00-20:00.

Don't miss trying ginjinha, a traditional Portuguese cherry liqueur served in tiny glasses. This sweet, warming drink is a local ritual, especially welcome on cooler December nights. Many locals enjoy it as a quick aperitif before dinner or between bar stops.

As you head downhill toward Cais do Sodre, the vibe shifts from rustic taverns to creative cocktail bars and eclectic music venues. This formerly gritty port district has transformed into one of Lisbon's trendiest nightlife areas, blending renovated warehouses, former sailors' taverns, and modern cocktail bars.

Note that most bars open 18:00-20:00, but the real action starts after 22:00. Plan for late dinners (21:00-22:00 is normal in Lisbon) if you want to experience nightlife like a local. Bars typically stay open until 02:00-03:00 on weekends.

For those wanting expert guidance and social connections, guided pub crawls offer hassle-free ways to discover hidden gems, taste local drinks, and meet fellow travelers while learning about Lisbon's vibrant after-dark culture.

Top Lisbon Pub Crawl Tours:

• Pub Crawl with Open Bar: Join a lively pub crawl through Bairro Alto, Cais do Sodre, and Pink Street with unlimited beer or sangria and complimentary welcome shots. Skip the lines at each venue and enjoy VIP entry, a fun social atmosphere, and a chance to meet fellow travelers.
• Evening Local Food Crawl with Drink Pairings: Savor 10 authentic Portuguese petiscos paired with local wines while exploring Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods. Your local guide shares insider stories and takes you to hidden culinary gems off the beaten path.
• Non-Alcoholic Pubcrawl in Lisbon: Discover Lisbon’s nightlife without alcohol with a 5-hour tour featuring soft drinks and mocktails. Visit highlights like Praca Luis de Camoes and Pink Street while enjoying guided insights and a social, immersive evening experience.

Who should visit Lisbon in December?

• Travelers who prefer authentic local experiences over beach weather
• Culture enthusiasts interested in history, architecture, and Portuguese traditions
• Food and wine lovers wanting to explore without tourist-heavy restaurants
• Photographers seeking beautiful light and atmospheric conditions
• Anyone who enjoys festive holiday atmospheres
• Budget-minded travelers looking for excellent value

Who might prefer other months?

• Beach and swimming enthusiasts (the water is too cold for most swimmers)
• Those requiring guaranteed sunny weather every day
• Travelers uncomfortable with occasional rain
• Anyone seeking long daylight hours for extended sightseeing

Is Lisbon cold in December?

Lisbon in December is generally mild compared with much of Europe. Daytime temperatures average 57–61 F (14–16 C), while nights fall to 46–52 F (8–11 C), so a warm jacket and layers make exploring the city comfortable.

Does it rain a lot in Lisbon in December?

Rain in Lisbon is more frequent in December, with around 10–15 days of showers. Most are brief, allowing you to enjoy indoor and outdoor activities on the same day, and bringing a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket is recommended.

Are Lisbon's Christmas markets open throughout December?

Yes, Christmas markets in Lisbon run from early December until just after New Year. Wonderland Lisboa at Parque Eduardo VII is the largest, while smaller artisan markets appear in Baixa, Chiado, and other neighborhoods.

Are Lisbon's museums and attractions open on Christmas or New Year's Day?

Many museums and attractions in Lisbon close or reduce hours on December 25 and January 1. Some restaurants, cafes, and cultural venues remain open, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.

Is December expensive in Lisbon?

Visiting Lisbon in December is generally less expensive in early December than in summer or the peak holiday period. Prices rise closer to Christmas and New Year, but the festive events and light displays make the trip feel especially rewarding.

What should I pack for Lisbon in December?

Packing for December in Lisbon means layers, a warm jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and rain gear. Accessories like a scarf and light gloves help on chilly evenings, while sunglasses are handy on bright days.

Can you do day trips from Lisbon in December?

Yes, day trips from Lisbon are still enjoyable in December. Locations like Sintra, Cascais, and the beaches of Costa da Caparica remain accessible, with cooler weather making hiking and sightseeing more comfortable, though some attractions may have shorter hours.