Lisbon fills with lights and life during the Christmas season, or "Natal" as it is called in Portuguese. The season's cultural calendar includes street markets, fairs with rides for the whole family, concerts, and shop windows featuring Christmas specialties every year.
Below you'll find the 5 things to do and see at Christmas in Lisbon.
Christmas decorations in the squares
Every year, themed Christmas decorations are installed in Lisbon's main squares. In Rossio, one of Lisbon's main squares, a large tree is put up, surrounded by different decorations each year. Some years include a couple of fairground rides that children love. The Praça de Camões, in the neighborhood of Chiado is also lit up.
Christmas at Praça do Comércio
In recent years, a stunning video mapping show has joined the traditional Christmas Tree at the Praça do Comércio (Lisbon's main square), bringing December nights to life for locals and visitors alike. Animated images are projected onto the Arco da Rua Augusta — a spectacle you won't want to miss if your visit falls during the projection dates. An ice-skating rink is also often set up here.
A Trip to Óbidos
There are two times of year when we recommend visiting Óbidos: during the Chocolate Festival and at Christmas. Both are perfect times to visit because this small medieval village is completely transformed into a charming destination for visitors. Inside the castle and its walls, a beautiful Vila de Natal (Christmas Village) is set up, with a market, traditional dishes, and special activities.
Bolo Rei from Confeitaria Nacional
Bolo Rei is the Portuguese equivalent of the traditional kings' cake. You can find it in many of the city's pastry shops and cafés. However, there's no better place to buy it than at Confeitaria Nacional , founded in 1829. It's also a wonderful spot to soak up the history of the Portuguese capital.
Eating Traditional Dishes
Roasted cod with potatoes, roasted octopus, and roasted kid are three of the most beloved Christmas dishes among the Portuguese. You'll find all three at any traditional restaurant. One thing to bear in mind: many restaurants remain closed over Christmas (the evening of the 24th and part of the 25th), so it's very important to either find a restaurant that stays open on those days, plan ahead, or eat at the hotel/or apartment where you're staying.
+1 Midnight Mass
If you are religious, you may want to stop by the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé) for midnight mass.
