If you’re looking for a European escape in December, Portugal should be at the top of your list. This beautiful country is home to stunning coastal towns, jaw-dropping mountainous landscapes, and vibrant cities that are perfect for a winter getaway. Plus, with temperatures hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit during December, it’s the perfect destination to escape the extreme cold weather while still enjoying some winter air.
How Much Are Tickets To Portugal from the USA in December?
The average price of a round-trip flight from the USA to Portugal in December is $1,000. However, prices can vary depending on your departure city and airline. So be sure to shop around for the best deal!
Portuguese Visa
If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a visa to enter Portugal for tourism or business purposes. However, you will need a valid passport. For more information on entry requirements, please visit the website of the Portuguese Embassy.
Is Portugal a good place to visit in December?
Absolutely! Portugal is a great place to visit at any time of year, but December is a particular time to be in the country. If you’re looking for some winter sun, the Algarve region is the perfect place to go. And if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, be sure to visit the markets in Lisbon and Porto. We loved our time in Lisbon and have written a Stress-Free Guide to Visiting Lisbon.
How Much Are Tickets To Portugal from the USA in December?
The average price of a round-trip flight from the USA to Portugal in December can get up to $1,000 if you are traveling closer to Christmas dates. However, prices can vary depending on your departure city and airline. I am seeing some great flight deals to Lisbon thanks to Scott’s Cheap Flights.
If I was traveling to Portugal in December, I would aim to keep my ticket under $700 and probably only take a carry-on.
What to do In Portugal In December?
1. Visit the capital city of Lisbon and explore its charming streets and architecture.
2. Head to the coastal town of Cascais for some beach time and incredible views.
3. Drive through the stunning mountains of Sintra for some breathtaking scenery.
4. Take a few days and visit Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city, and explore its lively streets and vibrant atmosphere.
5. Spend some time in the Algarve region of Portugal, where you can find beautiful beaches and quaint villages.
6. Visit Coimbra, Portugal’s oldest university town, and explore its charming medieval streets.
7. Drive through the Douro Valley for some of Portugal’s best wine country scenery.
8. Head to the island of Madeira for some incredible hiking and stunning views.
9. Finally, don’t miss out on the Christmas markets in Lisbon and Porto, where you can find unique gifts and enjoy a festive atmosphere.
cities to visit in Portugal in December
- Porto
- Lisbon
- Matosinhos
- Algarve
- Douro Valley
- Madeira
- Coimbra
Christmas Markets in Portugal
1. The Christmas Market in Lisbon is located in the Praça do Comércio and runs from December 1-23. This market features a wide variety of stalls selling everything from handmade jewelry to Portuguese Christmas decorations.
2. The Porto Christmas Market is located in the Ribeira district and runs from December 1- January 9th, but usually, on November 30th, they light up the tree, and it’s magnificent. This market is the perfect place to find unique gifts, as it features a wide variety of stalls selling handmade goods from local artisans.
3. Matosinho’s Christmas Market. Matosinhos is a town not too far from Porto known for its seafood restaurants. I had the best cod of my life there, and you can read about it in this blog post. 1 Day Porto Itinerary.
As per Portoalities
” The market can be visited every day, with free entry, at Parque Basílio Teles, in front of the Town Hall of Matosinhos. Take my advice and after / before going to this Christmas market, have a sweet or savoury pastry at Padaria Ribeiro. Everything there is to die for, trust me on this!
Address: Parque Basílio Teles, in Matosinhos.
4. The Algarve Christmas Market is located in the town of Albufeira and runs from December 1-23. This market features a wide variety of stalls selling traditional Portuguese Christmas decorations and gifts.
5. Madeira, Portugal Christmas market will occur From 1st December 2022 to 8th January 2023. As per European’s Best Destination:
Finally, the Madeira Christmas Market is located in the capital city of Funchal and runs from December 1-23. This market is the perfect place to find unique gifts, as it features a wide variety of stalls selling handmade goods from local artisans.
What should I pack for a December trip to Portugal?
Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing, as well as sunscreen and a hat if you’re planning on spending time in the sun. If you’re visiting the Christmas markets, don’t forget to bring some cash so you can buy gifts and souvenirs. I would also pack cardigans, warm socks, hats, a scarf, and gloves. I am usually very cold, so I like to bundle up. To save some room in my carry-on, I wouldn’t take boots and I would get this new travel backpack from Target.
And finally make sure you have a valid passport and travel insurance before you go!
Portugal in December Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Lisbon:
Check into your hotel and explore the city. Be sure to visit some of the historic sites, such as the Castle of Sao Jorge and the Jeronimos Monastery. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal. Check out my Lisbon blog post, where I share my top Lisbon restaurants to try.
Day 2: Explore Lisbon
Spend the day exploring all that Lisbon has to offer. Visit the historic center, ride the tram, and enjoy the views from one of the city’s many hills. In the evening, head to a Fado bar to listen to some traditional Portuguese music.
Day 3: Day trip to Sintra
Take a day trip to the town of Sintra and explore the Palace of Pena and the Castle of the Moors. Make sure you check out the streets for shops and food.
Day 4: Day trip to Belem area.
Here you can see the historical monument and the Belem tower and best of all, try the original Pasteis de Belem, which is that delicious Portuguese Pastry.
Day 5: Drive to Porto
Start your drive to Porto and make a stop in Coimbra to visit the University of Coimbra. Continue on to Porto and check into your hotel.
Day 6: Explore Porto
-Spend the day exploring Portugal’s second-largest city. Visit the historic center, ride the funicular, and enjoy the views from the top of the Clerigos Tower. Make sure you check out the food market on the other side of the river.
Day 7: Drive back to Lisbon
-Start your drive back to Lisbon and make a stop in Obidos to explore the medieval castle. Continue on to Lisbon and check into your hotel.
Day 8: Depart Lisbon
Best places for shopping in Portugal?
Some of the best places for shopping in Portugal include the Rua Augusta in Lisbon, the Chiado district in Lisbon, and the El Corte Ingles department store. Portugal is also well-known for its leather goods, so be sure to pick up a new bag or pair of shoes while you’re here! And if you’re looking for a bargain, be sure to visit one of the many markets.
What are some of the best Portuguese dishes?
Some of the best Portuguese dishes include bacalhau (codfish), francesinha (a sandwich made with meat and cheese), and pastel de nata (custard tart). Be sure to try some of these traditional dishes while you’re in Portugal! Some of the best Portuguese wines include Vinho Verde (green wine), port wine, and Madeira wine. Be sure to visit a vineyard or two while you’re in Portugal to sample some of these delicious wines!
Overall, Portugal is a fantastic destination for a trip in December or to spend Christmas and New Years with your family, European style, of course.
