Portugal is one of the oldest states on the Iberian Peninsula and therefore the most famous. The Portuguese territories were invaded and fought over several times. Given its history, Portugal also has many wonderful places to visit.
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December, People from all over the world come to Portugal to experience these Places in Portugal. Portugal is quite affordable, which makes an even more interesting destination, and another reason is the climate.
Which is best if you are looking for sightseeing. Portugal also has many mountains, vineyards and many fields and medieval villages.
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Reasons:
The best thing about Portugal in winter is that the country is not surrounded by dark skies, which sets it apart from other European countries.
The country does not even experience frost in winter due to which tourists can visit the country during the winter months. Although it snows inland, the beaches are famously sunny. So, prepare a vacation to Portugal in December Not a bad idea.
Weather In December:
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December has a Mediterranean climate, so winters are generally mild to warm. The average daily temperature is 15°C. However, bring warm clothing as the temperature drops to 8°C at night.
The chance of rain is lower and if you head towards the Algarve you will see the drier and sunnier side of Portugal. To answer your questions: Does it snow in Portugal in December? Yes, it snows regularly in winter, mostly in the northern region.
Portugal has twice as pleasant weather in December and is extremely convenient if you’re looking forward to a sightseeing trip during the day and sitting around a campfire at night.
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Fewer crowds:
During the winter months, Portugal’s most popular tourist destinations are much quieter, meaning you can spend less time queuing for attractions and more time enjoying them!
For example, on a recent trip to Porto in the summer, I couldn’t climb the Torre dei Chierici without a pre-booked ticket – and the tickets were sold out for three hours.
That wouldn’t happen in the winter months!
Even the Algarve, which is a serious contender for the title of warmest place in Europe in March, is virtually deserted this month and at the start of winter.
Weather is Cooler in winter:
In many parts of Portugal it can be very hot during the summer months, which is why the locals appreciate the low winter temperatures!
Summers in Portugal are quite hot, so in the winter months you can enjoy the Portuguese nature in exceptional comfort thanks to the mild climate.
Summers can be hot and humid here, but winter temperatures are much more pleasant (though distinctly milder than in northern Europe).
More accommodation availability:
Fewer tourists in Portugal means more accommodation! There are many other hotels, guesthouses and short-term rentals available in Portugal during the winter.
In the low season you will find that not only is there more availability, but it also costs a little less and allows you to book more at the last minute. You can travel more flexibly as you don’t have to book your accommodation long in advance.
Things are cheaper in winter:
Since winter is the tourist low season in Portugal, the demand for accommodation, excursions, restaurants and other tourist things is lower.
As a result, prices fall slightly. You will find that hotel booking prices are better and travel prices are slightly lower in winter. If you book in advance you will also benefit from an additional discount. It is therefore worth planning your trip several months in advance.
Depending on the departure location, airlines reduce prices for flights to Portugal in winter. Since the demand for these flights is lower, the prices become cheaper by combining all the costs of a winter trip to Portugal with a summer trip and an off-season trip, the costs will be much lower.
Christmas:
Portugal is a Catholic country and although it is not as religious as other European countries, there is a strong Christmas spirit here.
If you want to spend a Christmas holiday in the city and stay warm, go to Lisbon or Porto!
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal:
Lisbon:
Lisbon, Portugal’s dynamic capital and largest city, is full of art, culture and history day and night. There’s a lot to see here, from the winding streets of Alfama to the historic district built after the 18th century earthquake.
Although Lisbon is popular in the summer months, it can be very, very crowded and sweaty, so I prefer Lisbon in the winter. Trip to the viewpoint to admire the city (much more pleasant in the mild winter climate!).
Discover history in the Belém Tower, brighten up your winter vacation on Pink Street, stroll through the fairytale castle of Sintra, get lost in the winding streets of Alfama and eat as many Pasteis de Nata as possible.
1: Sé de Lisboa
The Sé de Lisboan commemorates Portugal’s Christian Reconquista after several years of Moorish-Islamic rule. It was originally built in the Romanesque style by Afonso I, the supreme king of Portugal.
After the Christian conquest of Lisbon in 1147. Over the centuries, the building was significantly expanded and redesigned. The interior of Self is surprisingly dark and spacious. It leaves guests with an atmosphere linked to the serious and profound role of religion in Portuguese history.
Location: Largo da Sé, 1100-585 Lisbon, Portugal
2: Igreja de São Roque:
One of the most important Jesuit holy sites in the world: St. Peter’s Church. Rocha is an interesting recommendation. Although the exterior reflects austerity. Its interior is one of the most magnificent and progressive spaces in Lisbon due to its ancient wealth and Jesuit influence.
Sights include the fascinating Capella de São João Baptista, which was considered the most expensive church in Europe at the time of its construction. It was collected in Rome in by the Italian builders Nicola Salvi and Luigi Vanvitelli, then dismantled and sent to Lisbon for installation.
Place: Largo Trindade Coelho, 1200-470 Lisbon, Portugal
3: Mosteiro dos Jerónimos:
The Jerónimos Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a fascinating insight into the glory and prosperity of the Portuguese Age of Discovery. This was supported by the return of profitable new exchange rates that linked Lisbon to African and Indian products.
The monastery is a great example of the unique Portuguese compositional style known as Manueline or Late Portuguese Gothic. Additionally, it is the final resting place of authentic and artistic titans such as
de Vasco da Gama, Luis de Camões and Fernando Pessoa and a must-see on every Lisbon traveler’s itinerary.
Location: Praça do Império 1400-206 Lisbon, Portugal
4: Igreja de Santa Catarina:
For reasons unknown, this parish remains mysterious and rarely visited, despite being on the edge of Barro Alto and generally one of the largest churches in the city.
The magnificent interiors are among Lisbon’s most notable design elements, from the Rococo stucco ceiling to the paneling work completed in 1727. Two of the most famous Portuguese artisans of the 18th century, Vieira Lusitano and André Gonçalves, created artistic masterpieces. Overlays
Location: Calçada do Combro 82, 1200-452 Lisbon, Portugal
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Ericeira:
If you’re looking for delicious seafood, adventurous surfing and time by the sea, Arrears is a small fishing village near Lisbon. It is located on the central coast of Portugal and the temperature in December in Portugal is very Mediterranean.
Surfing can be a great way to pass the time. Erira is considered the Mecca of Europe because of its unique coastline.
Nearest attractions: Mafra (10 km), Foz do Lizandro (3.4 km)
3 Things To Do In Azores Islands:
1. Chill out in Natural Pools:
Azores Islands is a volcanic region, hence adorned with hot pools everywhere, which remain full during high tides. Azores Islands weather in January is pretty cold. So, dipping your feet and relaxing in any of the geothermally heated pools is one of the most popular activities in Azores Islands.
2. Where to stay in Azores Islands:
Tourism in the islands of the Azores is well developed in terms of accommodation and other attractions. There are many good hotels in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel. The most popular are the Hotel Ponta Delgada, the Casa das Palmeiras and the Hotel Marina Antico.
3. Island Hopping:
Sailing the beaches and discovering the nine volcanic islands is a fun and exciting activity. You can stop at any of them, walk around, sunbathe on the beaches and taste authentic local dishes of the Azores such as grilled limpets, locally produced pineapples, cheese, seafood and locally produced wine.
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Serra da Estrela:
Would you like to stay in snow-capped mountains? Don’t forget to visit the Serra da Estrela, the place where Portugal’s highest mountain range was formed.
The weather in Portugal brings snowfall to the northern regions in December and the rest of the winter months, making Serra da Estrela the only place in Portugal that offers skiing. If you are a snow lover and want to play with snow and build snowmen, you have come to the right place.
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Madeira:
Start the New Year by waking up, hiking and spending time by the sea on this subtropical island. New Year’s Eve parties create a festive atmosphere without making you catch a cold. A visit to the Madeira Wine Museum was on your wish list.
This place is known for the wine of the same name and the subtropical climate it offers. Madeira consists of 4 islands on the northwest coast of Africa. The weather in Portugal is expected to be nicer than ever in December 2022 and people have already started preparing for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
If you visit this place, put on your party hat because you will definitely have a great time here.
Nearest attractions: Funchal (16.5 km), Porto Moniz (59.1 km), Porto Santo Island (68 km)
4 Best Places To Visit:
1. St George’s Castle:
It is one of the best attractions that make a trip to Portugal and one of the most popular places in Lisbon. Located on a hill near Alfama, its walls, museums and exceptional archeology make this castle a must-see for every tourist.
Location: R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon, Portugal
hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entrance fee: €15 per day
2. Monserrate Palace:
No list of item to do in Portugal can be perfect without mentioning the magnificent gardens of Monserrate. If you are honeymooning in Portugal, this must be at the top of your list. A walk with your partner on a sunny day is one of the most romantic things you can do in Portugal.
Location: 2710-405 Sintra, Portugal
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm
Entrance fee: 8€ per day,
3. News Museum:
One of the most fascinating places in Portugal is the Information Museum, located in the same building as the Toy Museum. It shows what role information, media and communication play in the modern world.
Location: R. de Santa Cruz do Castelo, 1100-129 Lisbon, Portugal
Hours: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
4. Porto Bridge:
One of the less traditional places in Portugal is the Porto Bridge. Porto Bridge Climb organizes guided tours of this iconic structure, where participants wear harnesses and lifelines to climb to great heights in comfort and safety.
Location: PTE Luis I, Porto, Portugal
Opening times: Open all day
Also read about, Renting an Apartment in Portugal: Tips for a Smooth Process>>
Porto Santo Island:
It is a small but incredibly beautiful island in Portugal, known for its warm waters, diving spots where you can have a great time in the water and its beautiful beach. Christopher Columbus’s house museum is located here.
One attraction that attracts many people seeking peace and quiet is the view. The viewpoints offer breathtaking views and anyone looking for peace and quiet will definitely find it here.
Nearest sights: Madeira (68 kilometers), Vila Baleira (2.6 km), Wüsteninsel (66.2 km)
Most Famous places to visit in Portugal in December Óbidos:
Óbidos, one of the most romantic cities in Portugal to visit in December, offers beautiful white houses, romantic and enchanting landscapes. With this collection of souvenir shops, florists and bookstores, Óbidos has become the city of book lovers. If you’re taking a trip to Portugal with someone special during the winter months, you’ll both love this city. This allows you to take part in reading sessions and drink unique coffee in these wonderful little cafés.
Óbidos, one of the most romantic cities in Portugal to visit in December, offers beautiful white houses, romantic and enchanting landscapes. With this collection of souvenir shops, florists and bookstores, Óbidos has become the city of book lovers. If you’re taking a trip to Portugal with someone special during the winter months, you’ll both love this city. This allows you to take part in reading sessions and drink unique coffee in these wonderful little cafés.
This is literally a place for lovers.
Nearest sights: Nazaré (40 km), Coimbra (134 km), Evora (197 km)
