A holiday season filled with charm
No Christmas holiday plans yet? Here are some ideas! Portugal comes to life at the year’s end with a vibrant blend of cultural traditions and scenic beauty, from sparkling lights adding color to city centers to festive activities across the country, all inviting you to enjoy some well-deserved rest.
Enjoy shopping at local stores and markets, and savor traditional holiday treats such as Bolo-rei, filhoses (fried pastries with sugar and cinnamon), and rabanadas (Portuguese-style French toast). After sampling these seasonal specialties, dive into Portugal’s renowned cuisine. From the iconic pastel de nata to some of the best fish in the world, our cuisine features many hallmarks of the World Heritage Mediterranean Diet.
How about some family fun? With over 300 sunny days a year, winters here bring mild temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the streets of Lisbon. Stroll up to a viewpoint or take a tram ride to discover the city’s landmarks, from the historic Belém area to the modern Parque das Nações. Nearby gems such as Sintra, Cascais, and Mafra are perfect for day trips, showcasing palaces, coastal views, and scenic strolls.
If you hire a car, it’s a short drive from Lisbon to Ericeira, Peniche, or Nazaré, each famous for waves that attract surfers of all levels. Other options include UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Tomar, Alcobaça, Batalha and Coimbra. If you point your GPS southwards, the Alentejo region has many not-to-be-missed sites, including Évora, Elvas, Marvão and huge Alqueva Lake, all perfect to relax and slow down.
In the opposite direction lies the northern city of Porto, renowned for its wine. The city blends historic charm with modern attractions, from the Ribeira to Foz district, where old monuments contrast with contemporary gems like Serralves and Casa da Música. Take a boat trip along the river to enjoy the stunning Douro Valley. Further north, explore UNESCO sites and charming cities including Guimarães, Viana do Castelo, and Braga.
Head to the Algarve for beautiful beaches, a mild winter perfect for golfing, and lively nightlife. Explore the charming towns of Faro, Tavira, Silves, and Lagos, with options for boat rides, biking, scenic trails, and spa days — all blending relaxation with cultural exploration.
With direct flights to the Azores, there’s no excuse not to explore this stunning mid-Atlantic archipelago, featuring nine unspoiled islands perfect for leisurely exploration. Start in São Miguel to explore its lush green landscapes and lakes, or visit Ilha Terceira, home to Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Madeira is also a top New Year’s destination, with the entire island adorned in vibrant lights and a spectacular fireworks display that welcomes the year and attracts cruise ships and visitors from around the world. Another pleasant surprise is the climate, with temperatures from 20ºC to 25ºC — perfect for enjoying the island’s landscapes. Can you think of a better way to start the New Year?
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Winter in Algarve
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Christmas in Lisbon
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Roman Temple in Évora
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Mosteiro de Alcobaça, Centro de Portugal.
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Fogo lake Trail in the Azores
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Come to Portugal and play golf during winter
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Cerdeira Village, Aldeias do Xisto
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New Years Eve in Funchal, Madeira
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