Portugal or the Portuguese Republic is located in the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is one of the oldest states of the Iberian Peninsula making it also the most famous. Portugal’s territories were invaded and were fought for quite a number of times. With all the history in the past, Portugal also has a number of beautiful destinations, and people from all over the world pay their visits to Portugal in order to check these places out. Portugal is quite affordable and this makes it even more of a place visited by many, another reason being its climate which is the best if you are looking for a trip full of sightseeing. Portugal also has a number of mountains, vineyards and a number of farmland and medieval villages. People looking for great landscapes and a walk through the vineyard have Portugal at the top in their bucket lists. If you are planning a visit to this beautiful place full of lush green mountains and various another natural phenomenon, Portugal in December can be a good idea.
Portugal Weather In December
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Portugal experiences a Mediterranean climate which is why it generally has mild to warm winters. The average high rises up to 15°C during the daytime. Although, you must keep some warm clothes with you as the temperature drops to 8°C at night. There are fewer chances of rainfall and you’ll see the driest and sunny side of Portugal when you head toward Algarve region. So, to answer your questions like, does it snow in December in Portugal? Yes, snowfall can be experienced regularly in the winter, usually in the northern region. Portugal in December witnesses dual condition weather, and is extremely favorable if you looking forward to a trip full of sightseeing during the daytime and sitting by the fire during the nights.
Why Visit Portugal In December?
One of the best things about Portugal during the winter season is that the country is not covered by the dark skies – this makes it stand apart from other countries in Europe. The country does not even observe freezing weather during the winters, which makes it bearable for the tourists to explore the country in the winter months. However, it does snow in the internal regions but the coastlines are covered with bright sunshine. Therefore, planning a vacation in Portugal in the month of December won’t be a bad idea.
Places To Visit In Portugal In December
Here are some lovely sites you must visit in Portugal to explore this beautiful country on your next trip:
1. Lisbon
The capital city is famous for mouthwatering food and cheaper markets in Portugal. Pastel De Nata is one of the authentic dishes from the bakeries of Portugal which you must try. It has a lot of famous places which you wouldn’t try to miss out on like, Belem Tower, Jeronimos Monastery, Alfama and a lot more places. The city can be easily explored on foot and it is considered to be the best way to do so. While traveling on foot the narrow streets of this classy city, you can see many fado singers which would give you a feeling of the old beautiful times.
Nearest Places To Visit: Sintra (29 kilometers), Cascais (25 kilometers), Évora (132 kilometers)
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2. Ericeira
For delicious seafood, adventurous surfing and to spend time by the side of the sea, Ericeira is a small fishing village where you can reach easily from Lisbon. It is located on the central coast of Portugal, the temperature in Portugal in December being highly Mediterranean surfing here can be a very good time pass. Ericeira is considered to be the mecca of Europe, due to its exceptional coastline.
Nearest Places To Visit: Mafra (10 kilometers), Foz do Lizandro (3.4 kilometers)
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3. Algarve
For trendy warm water bath, beautiful sightseeing and hiking expedition is what Algarve is famous for. Visiting here will make you believe that heaven exists on earth. If you are a person who would love playing golf right by the beach, this is a must visit for you. This place offers scenic beauty. You could find numerous bar, restaurants, and hotels right by the coast which makes it very much accessible.
Nearest Places To Visit: Lagos (90 kilometers), Albufeira (46 kilometers), Portimão (71.4 kilometers)
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4. Óbidos
One of the most romantic cities to visit in Portugal in December, Óbidos, you will find beautiful white houses, romantic and charming scenery. Along with that cluster of souvenir shops, flower shops, and bookshops is what made Óbidos called the city of book lovers. If you are on a trip during winter months in Portugal with that one special person, this city is going to be loved by you both. It lets you go on book reading dates, where you can have unique coffees at these beautiful little cafes. This is a place literally for lovers.
Nearest Places To Visit: Nazaré (40 kilometers), Coimbra (134 kilometers), Evora (197 kilometers)
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5. Serra da Estrela
Want to stay in some snow mountains? Then Serra da Estrela, the home of the highest mountain range of Portugal is a must visit. Portugal weather in December and rest of the winter months result in snowfall in the northern areas, this makes Serra da Estrela the only place in Portugal that offers skiing. If you are a lover of snow and would be interested in playing with the snow and making snowmen this is the destination for you.
Nearest Places To Visit: Gardunha (46 kilometers), Serra do Açor (54.2 kilometers)
6. Madeira
Start your new year by waking up to this subtropical island with hiking and spending time by the sea. New year’s eve parties will give you all the festive vibe without any cold. Visiting the Madeira Wine Museum has been in your bucket list. This place is known for the namesake wine and the subtropical climate it provides. Madeira is comprised of 4 islands at the northwest coast of Africa. Weather in Portugal in December 2022, is expected to be as good as always, and people have already started preparing for the Christmas and New Year Parties. Put your party hats on when you visit this place because you are definitely going to have some great time here.
Nearest Places To Visit: Funchal (16.5 kilometers), Porto Moniz (59.1 kilometers), Porto Santo Island (68 kilometers)
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7. Porto Santo Island
This is a small but amazingly beautiful island in Portugal, it is known for its warm water, dive sites for you to have some fun in the water, and the very pretty beach it has. This place is home to the Christopher Columbus House Museum. The attraction which brings a lot of people searching for serenity is its viewpoint. The viewpoints give you awestruck views and if you lack peace of mind, you will definitely find it here.
Nearest Places To Visit: Madeira (68 kilometers), Vila Baleira (2.6 kilometers), Desertas Islands (66.2 kilometers)
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Portugal in December is the place for you to be this winters. The green mountains, splendidly beautiful vineyards, narrow streets with singers, islands where the party never stops. Summing all this up, Portugal is a complete package and has everything required to make you December well spent. Plan an international trip to Europe and to give a great start to the new year.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Portugal In December
How hot is Portugal at Christmas?
Temperatures are generally mild, with an average maximum of 17°C and an average minimum of 10°C. Frosts are generally absent near the coastline although they occasionally crop up in the hillier northern parts of the region.
What are the festivals celebrated in Portugal In December?
Kizomba New Year’s Eve Fest is one of the last Portugal festivals of the year and is celebrated for three long days starting from December 28th.
Which is the best location to stay in Portugal in winter?
It is best to be based along the Algarve coastline, for a relaxing winter holiday, as this region offers better weather. Other popular resort areas such as Albufeira, Lagos, Vilamoura and Praia da Rocha that are perfect of winter stays.
Where should I go for Christmas in Portugal?
Tavira, Lisbon, Alentejo, Serra da Estrela, and Porto are some of the best places that you should head to if you are looking forward to the festivities and celebrations of Christmas.
What is a Christmas meal like in Portugal?
A traditional Christmas meal in Portuga is called ‘Consoada’, and is eaten during the evening of Christmas Eve and consists of codfish with green vegetables and boiled potatoes. This is normally followed by shellfish, wild meats or other expensive foods.
Does it snow in Portugal in December?
Usually, during the time period between December and March, the country of Portugal receives snowfall.
Is Lisbon nice in December?
The month of December in Lisbon is mild and there are some sunny days too during this time but it is obviously colder as well as wetter.
Is December a good time to go to Portugal?
The weather in Portugal during this time of the year fluctuates a bit. However, visiting Portugal in December will be a great idea, as sightseeing can be fun!
Where to go in Portugal during winter?
There are many place in Portugal that you can visit to make your winter vacation here memorable. Some of them are: 1. Lisbon 2. Alentejo 3. Porto 4. Serra da Estrela
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Anjana is a writer, journalist, and a full-time wallflower. She holds a Master’s degree in Media and Mass Communication and firmly believes that travel blogging is nothing less than art. Combining her love for writing with her passion for globetrotting, she brings to you some amazing tips on traveling perfectly, be it any season of the year! In her spare time, she loves reading, listening to obscure indie bands, and writing poetry – all of this while being a crazy dog lady.
