In association with: Portuguese National Tourist Office
Portugal is full of life in the winter with vibrant attractions throughout the festive season
From one of Europe’s tallest Christmas trees to festive villages, yuletide markets, carol concerts and street parties, Portugal lights up in December with attractions across the nation. Traditional festive foods to try include bacalhau (salted cod) and Bolo Rei, or King Cake (cake filled with dried fruit).
Discover various age-old traditions, whether it’s catching a live nativity scene or lighting a bonfire on Christmas Eve. Some places go further by turning into entire Christmas villages. The medieval streets of Óbidos, for example, host festive performances, a grotto and other attractions throughout December, while in the Serra da Estrela mountains the Cabeca Aldeia Natal is a sustainable festival using materials sourced from the mountains for decoration.
Festive city breaks
There’s plenty to lure in the cities too. Lisbon’s famous Parque Eduardo VII turns into Wonderland Lisboa in December, with family-friendly draws including an ice rink, Ferris wheel, food stands and craft stalls, while Rossio Square hosts a Christmas Market with mulled wine, souvenirs and sweet treats aplenty. Streets light up with festive decorations across the city, and there’s plenty in the way of Christmas shopping, with an array of welcoming historic boutiques, antique shops and galleries.
Elsewhere, Porto brings its own brand of Christmas with lights illuminating the historic centre to magical effect. Shop windows get creative as part of a Christmas competition, while the Mercado da Alegria descends on Praça da Batalha with vendors selling crafts, jewellery and local delicacies.
Outside of the city, Matosinhos is famous for its Christmas market with artisans from across Portugal selling regional produce and handmade gifts, while Vila Nova de Gaia offers plenty of family-friendly fun – from a mini-Christmas train to live performances sure to get visitors feeling festive, Portuguese style.
Three of the best festivities in Madeira
1. Festive performances and light shows
From December 1 to January 8, capital Funchal is filled with lights and nativity scenes, while the Central Walkway on Avenida Arriaga hosts daily music performances.
2. Market night
On December 23, thousands gather at the Farmer’s Market for Christmas carols, folk bands and other festivities, as stalls fill the streets with regional specialities. Don’t miss poncha, a local drink made with brandy, honey and lemon juice.
3. Santo Amaro Festival
Santo Amaro is celebrated across the island on January 15 to mark the end of Christmas. Head to Santa Cruz for the best festivities, with a candlelit procession, live music and food stalls taking over the city.
PICTURES: Rui Rebelo/Turismo de Portugal; Henrique Seruca/Visit Madeira
