Portugal Tours in December 2025

What our customers ask about Portugal Tours in December 2025

• What is the weather like in Portugal during December?

  Portugal's December climate shows distinct regional patterns. The island of Madeira maintains temperatures of 15-20°C (59-68°F) creating good conditions for exploring. Mainland cities like Porto and Lisbon cool down to 8-15°C (46-59°F) with occasional rain showers. A TourRadar traveler mentioned "Even in December we had several clear days perfect for outdoor activities though we did experience some rain in Porto." The southern Algarve stays relatively mild making it suitable for coastal activities and city walks.

• What special Christmas events and festivities can I experience in Portugal during December?

  December transforms Portuguese cities into centers of holiday activity. Funchal's Noite do Mercado draws crowds for its nightlong Christmas market where visitors can try local specialties like sandes de carne vinho alhos. The city's Town Hall square hosts a Christmas Village complete with wooden stalls a festive train and Santa's sleigh. A TourRadar traveler noted "The Christmas lights and festivities added a wonderful bonus to our December trip." Porto's old quarter features extensive light displays while Lisbon's main squares fill with seasonal markets and music.

• What are the best places to stay in Portugal during December?

  Portugal offers varied winter accommodation options. The Hotel Muthu Raga in Funchal provides ocean views and heated amenities perfect for December stays. Lisbon's Lisboa Plaza puts guests near the heart of holiday activities. In Porto The Editory House Ribeira Hotel offers rooms in the historic center. As noted by a TourRadar traveler "The hotels were excellently located for enjoying the Christmas festivities especially in Funchal where we could watch the fireworks from our hotel."

• What unique food and wine experiences are available in Portugal during December?

  December brings special seasonal dining across Portugal. Porto's historic wine cellars offer warming Port tastings while restaurants serve Christmas variations of bacalhau. Madeira's Farmers' Market features holiday liqueurs and local Christmas foods. According to a TourRadar traveler "The food markets in December were exceptional with vendors offering special Christmas treats and hot wine that made the experience magical."

• How crowded are popular tourist sites in Portugal during December?

  December visitors find fewer crowds at major attractions except during the Christmas and New Year's period. Sites like Lisbon's Jerónimos Monastery and Douro Valley wineries offer more peaceful visits early in the month. A TourRadar traveler shared "We enjoyed having many places almost to ourselves in early December though it got busier closer to Christmas."

• Are major tourist attractions open during December in Portugal?

  Most Portuguese attractions maintain regular operations in December with adjusted winter schedules. Key sites including Porto's Stock Exchange Palace Lisbon's Belém Tower and Sintra's Pena Palace welcome visitors year-round. TourRadar travelers note the importance of checking winter hours as some locations like the Jerónimos Monastery close at 5pm and certain Douro Valley wineries run limited tasting sessions.