Museums & Attractions

Lisbon in winter: Attractions and Things to do in winter

Have you considered a winter trip to Lisbon? Absolutely brilliant! Despite the fact that most tourists go there in the summer, Lisbon is still worth a visit in the winter. Because of the lack of visitors, prices in comparison to other European destinations are lower, and the weather is preferable. You understand it; winter in Lisbon is a wonderful time to visit! But then, what ought one to do there? Here's a selection of great winter activities in Lisbon.

Watch a fado performance

The Portuguese folk music known as fado is deeply rooted in the country's culture. The music is typically played on guitars and mandolins, and it has a slow tempo and features a solo singer. A sensation of saudade, a wistful longing for the past, is captured. Although fado is enjoyable at any time of year, it is more effective when played in an atmosphere that appropriately reflects the song's underlying melancholy. Dinnertime fado performances are a popular attraction for diners. If you're looking to hear some fado, you should visit the Alfama neighborhood.

fado lisbon

Admire the Christmas markets

It would be a shame to visit Lisbon around Christmas and miss out on the city's famous Christmas markets. From about the middle of November to the beginning of January, you may find them all throughout town. Since the majority of Portuguese are Catholic, the city of Lisbon is often elaborately decorated. Find seasonal treats you can't get any other time of year, along with handmade toys, ornaments, and other knickknacks at these holiday markets. The best Christmas markets in Lisbon may be found in Campo Pequeno, Wonderland Parque Eduardo VII, and Natalis.

christmas decoration lisbon

Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Enjoy Lisbon's New Year's Eve festivities! What an incredible adventure! Make your way to Praça de Comercio, the city's central square! There will be fireworks at midnight and live music all night long! There are mini-celebrations all across the city, and beer and wine are being served at pop-up stands. This is an opportunity you shouldn't pass up.

Visit Alfama

One of Lisbon's most well-known areas is Alfama. It's the oldest part of town, and the only part that was still standing after the devastating earthquake of 1755. This once-dismal neighborhood has been transformed into a hipster haven thanks to its gorgeous tiled buildings and cobblestone streets. Alfama is reminiscent of a quaint Portuguese town. Spend some time strolling around this picturesque neighborhood.

Alfama, Lisbon: A Guide to the City's Charming Old Quarter District

A Vox City guided walking tour of Alfama, Lisbon's historic neighborhood, is a great way to get your bearings and see some of the city's most impressive buildings as soon as you arrive in the city. The Augusta Street Arch, Lisbon's most famous landmark, is located on the Tagus Strait beachfront between the two renowned yellow ministry buildings and is where all tours begin. Stop by Martinho da Arcada, Lisbon's oldest cafe, for a cup of coffee and a rest before continuing on your way. Once you've rested up, head out to the Portas do Mar Arch and Alfama Tower in the Old Town to see remnants of Moorish rule. As soon as you arrive, set aside some time to wander the area's winding alleys, which are lined with blue-tiled homes and host a variety of charming galleries, cafes, and shops. This location is absolutely breathtaking and smells like antiquity.

Check out bairro alto

To really experience Lisbon's nightlife, a visit to Bairro Alto is a must. There is an exceptionally high density of drinking establishments and dining options in that area. Simply explore the area until you find a place to eat or drink that appeals to you. Bairro Alto is a great place to hear live music, eat delicious tapas, enjoy fresh seafood, and drink excellent wine. Going to Bairro Alto in the winter is ideal since it is far less crowded than in the summer, and the crowd is slightly more mature.

bairro alto lisbon

Enjoy the Portuguese food

The popularity of Portuguese cuisine among tourists is much below its true potential. Don't forget to save room for some of Portugal's wonderful regional delicacies. One of the most well-liked wintertime meals is calbo verde. It's a green soup that typically includes local pork sausage in addition to potatoes, garlic, kale, onions, olive oil, and a few other ingredients. But in order to fully appreciate the cuisine of the area, take a food tour of the city and learn about some incredible specialties.

pastel de nata lisbon

Have a wine tour

If you're going to appreciate the Portuguese cuisine, you might as well try some of the local wine as well. You must visit the various vineyards in Portugal that are producing excellent wine, especially in the north. It can be interesting to discover more about Port wine, a sweet red wine from Portugal that is typically consumed with dessert.

Walk the Miradouros

Miradouros are vantage points on the city's higher elevations that provide stunning panoramas of Lisbon below. Winter is an excellent time to hike these hills because it is not only cooler, but also less busy. The most well-known are the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, the Miradouro da Graça, and the Miradouro de Sao Pedro de Alcantara, however Lisbon is home to 16 total miradouros.

miradouro lisbon

Shop at the feira da ladra

The Feira da Ladra is Lisbon's first and longest-running flea market. It has been open on Tuesdays and Saturdays, rain or shine, from early morning to early afternoon since it first opened in the 17th century. Books, music CDs, rarities, and useless clutter can all be found there. As a matter of fact, you'll see far fewer foreigners than locals.