December In Lisbon: A Festive Walk To See The Lights Of Lisbon

1. Introduction: Embracing Lisbon’s Holiday Magic in December

A Festive Walk To See The Lights Of Lisbon: So, friends, December is coming. Do you want to go to such a place with your family which will absolutely fascinate you? So stay tuned to this blog.

Today I have brought a place in front of you. After going there, you will feel like this. Yes, the name of that place is Lisbon.

Many people had asked me in the comment section that December is coming and we want to go to such a place with family which is very nice and family friendly.

So suddenly I remembered my last year’s tour, which I went with my family. My family also likes to travel with me.

So last year we came to this place and I have compiled all the memories of this place and written this blog only for you. So that after reading this blog, you can plan for this place in December.

So let’s start our Lisbon’s Holiday Magic blog and find out what’s new this time in this new blog.

2. When and Where to See Lisbon’s Christmas Lights

You are going to Lisbon with your family for Christmas celebration. So let me tell you, you have chosen the right destination. Now it is time to do some research.

You can do that through this block because I am going to tell you a lot of things in this block.

By the way, this place is very famous for its Christmas lighting. This place becomes very beautiful even before Christmas starts here and there is a lot of positivity in the atmosphere here. This place seems like a winter wonderland to me.

By the way, if you are planning to come here, then let me tell you that you can come here around the first week of December.

At this time, I would say, it becomes very beautiful. And you can also visit many other places here like Baixa, Chiado, and Avenida da Liberdade.

All these destinations are very popular and iconic. And the beauty of this place during the festival will win your heart. The people here are very friendly.

If you interact with them well, they will also tell you about the many good shops here, from where you can do a lot of shopping.

This topic is my favorite because when I was exploring the streets of this place, I am telling you the truth.

The night lighting and these streets entertained me so well that I did not even realize when the time passed and I am thinking that this year also I am here to celebrate Christmas.

Speaking from experience, a visit to the lights of Lisbon is best commenced in historic Baixa. Going here, the natural flow of the route goes down the most beautifully lit streets of the city.

1. Praça do Comércio: These are the beginnings of the Praça do Comércio, Lisbon’s huge riverfront square every year.

It is decorated with an extraordinary light display that consists of one very tall Christmas tree and luminous characters towering above the visitors. This seems almost film set-like with the glinting Tagus River at the back.

2. Rua Augusta at a Walking: From Praça do Comércio, take on Rua Augusta, Lisbon’s main pedestrian street; let the lights grasp a canopy that leads your path, even as if the stars are out to guide you.

Adding to this festive energy are street performers, live music, and the hum of excited chatter.

3. Visit Rossio Square: Head further to Rossio Square, the center of Lisbon, and you will again find more lights, one big Christmas tree, and sometimes a few other displays too.

The square is always full of life, with locals and tourists alike, commonly with kids absolutely enchanted by the holiday wonders.

4. Head up to Chiado: The already sophisticated vibe of Chiado, combined with its elegant holiday lights, makes it a little more magical. Window displays from high-end stores are decked out for the season, making this part of town quite chic and festive.

Head into one of Chiado’s original cafes-say A Brasileira-to warm up with a drink before you continue.

5. Conclude on Avenida da Liberdade: The last stretch of this walk leads you down Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s grand avenue. Trees and lampposts are garlanded with sparkling lights, making it a fairy tale holiday scenario.

It is like walking into a scene from a holiday movie as each step wraps you closer in the festive spirit of Lisbon.

4. Highlights of Lisbon’s Christmas Light Displays

Every December, Lisbon transforms into holiday lights and creates an atmosphere you’ve never experienced in your life. Such a positive environment.

Praça do Comércio: Known for its impressive Christmas tree, Praça do Comércio feels like the heart of Lisbon’s holiday celebrations. The last time I went.

I spent over an hour here, literally just looking at that huge tree and how the lights light up the square. It is one of those places that manages to make you feel the festive atmosphere, even when traveling alone.

Rossio Square: Rossio Square during this period of the year is simply unforgettable. The square comes with an equally tall Christmas tree, and lights are placed across the square.

The atmosphere is full of excitement amongst natives and visitors alike. Rossio is an excellent place to catch the feel of Lisbon’s holiday celebrations.

And, do not forfeit the many giant nativity scenes that often line the square.

Avenida da Liberdade: The lights on Avenida da Liberdade are so striking; it feels like an endless avenue since every single tree is on, and it is really magical just taking a slow walk around there.

Walking up the boulevard lined with twinkling lights, it felt like I was part of Lisbon’s festive tapestry.

5. Additional Festive Attractions and Activities Along the Walk

Besides the lights, Lisbon has many holiday activities to discover by a walk around the city.

Christmas markets: You will find some really charming markets at the time of Christmas in the town, which includes the Mercado de Natal.

You can pick up unique gifts, handmade crafts, and seasonal treats. Last December, I once stumbled on a market near Rossio where I bought a hand-painted ornament that reminds me of Lisbon during every holiday season.

Pop-Up Stalls and Food Carts: The roast chestnut odor is again one of the compulsory Lisbon winter traditions.

You will see them along the route selling freshly roasted chestnuts-a treat impossible to resist given both the warming of your hands and your soul.

Other food stalls are selling traditional Portuguese sweets like the delicious pastel de nata, which goes so well with a warm glass of mulled wine.

Holiday Shows and Activities: There are holiday performances all over Lisbon, from Christmas carolers in the streets to live music at city squares.

On my walk, I happened upon a local choir singing traditional Portuguese Christmas songs, their voices nice against the historic buildings of Lisbon. It is a simple yet unforgettable experience.

6. Lisbon’s Iconic Christmas Tree: Praça do Comércio

In the Praça do Comércio stands Lisbon’s tallest Christmas tree, proudly upwards, full of thousands of sparkling lights.

This is one of the most oversized Christmas trees in Portugal and has come to be a landmark in itself.

Visiting this towering tree at night, when it is all lit up, will never be forgotten: crowds, laughter, and the joyous holiday spirit come all together.

Best Time to Visit: Vist the area a little earlier in the evening will compromise on fewer crowds.

Although sunset is a beautiful backdrop, the lights really shine at night, casting a warm, golden glow on all visitors.

7. Tips for Experiencing Lisbon’s Festive Lights Like a Local

Timing Your Walk: Starting just before sunset allows you to capture the lights flickering on in a magical transition from day to night. This timing lets you experience Lisbon’s festive lights both in daylight and then lighting up the night.

Avoiding the Crowds: Weekday evenings tend to be quieter than weekends. A Monday evening walk through Baixa and Chiado proved that it gave me just enough elbow room to really appreciate the lights with not too many people around.

The Local Warm Drink Spots: You will not leave a single stone unturned as far as cozy cafes are concerned on your way.

I recommend stopping at a local café, like in Chiado, to grab a warm drink. Indeed, places like Café A Brasileira and Fábrica Coffee Roasters provide solid enough reason to take a break during your festive walk.

8. Winter Weather in Lisbon and What to Wear

Winters in Lisbon are quite cold. So whenever you are planning to come here, you should keep warm clothes with you and it will be good if you have some extra clothes.

If you are travelling with your family and there are small children in it, then you have to make sure that you take care of their clothes.

Dress them in warm clothes so that their health does not deteriorate. And you can make your trip enjoy properly. Drink warm water, eat warm things and tell your family about it too.

You have to keep thick clothes with you. Like sweaters, jackets for winter, gloves, comfortable water proof shoes. You should also have some styling accessories with you.

If you have a child younger than 2 years with you, then you can keep him in your child backpack. What will happen with this is that the child will stick to your chest.

9. Extending the Festive Experience: Other Must-Visit Spots

To make Lisbon’s festive vibe even more spectacular, you can explore nearby areas, such as Belém and Sintra. Both places offer not only decorations but also historical and cultural experiences that make your holiday trip even more special.

Belém for Holiday Lights and History

Belém, one of Lisbon’s most iconic neighborhoods, is even more beautiful during the holiday season. There are several historical landmarks here, such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, which are decorated with festive lights, creating the perfect combination of Portuguese history and holiday spirit.

Belém Tower: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its waterfront location is even more enchanting with festive lights. The tower is even more beautiful at night, and is a perfect backdrop for holiday photos.

Jerónimos Monastery: This architectural masterpiece is even more beautiful with holiday lights. There are also some festive decor and light displays around the monastery that make the area even more charming.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument of the Discoveries): This monument is also decorated with holiday lights, offering a unique combination of history and seasonal festivity.

Enjoy the Pastéis de Belém: A visit to Belém is complete only when you enjoy the famous pastel de nata. This custard tart is served with warm cinnamon and is perfect for the winter weather of December.

Sintra’s Christmas Magic

Just a short distance from Lisbon, Sintra feels like a fairytale town and becomes even more magical during the holiday season.

Its romantic palaces and lush forests are decorated with festive decorations and lights that make the place even more special.

Pena Palace: This colorful palace is beautiful during all seasons, but it is even more enchanting during December.

Combined with winter mist and festive lights, it creates a magical ambiance that makes your holiday memorable.

Sintra Village Christmas Market: Sintra’s town center hosts a charming Christmas market where you can find local crafts, holiday treats, and seasonal decor.

The market’s traditional feel and festive lights make the experience even more special.

Quinta da Regaleira: This mystical estate is famous for its intricate gardens, hidden tunnels, and towers, and it’s even more magical in the winter.

The gardens and decorations here create a secret holiday garden feel that’s wonderful to explore in the cool of December.

10. Practical Tips for Visiting Lisbon in December

To make your trip to Lisbon even more enjoyable in December, some practical tips are helpful so that you can have a comfortable and safe experience.

Here are some tips that will make your holiday even more convenient and memorable.

Public Transport Options

Lisbon has a great public transport system, which easily reaches the festive lights and popular areas.

Metro: Lisbon’s metro system is reliable and affordable, connecting main areas such as Baixa, Chiado and Rossio Square. This is a quick and economical option if you are exploring the various decorated neighborhoods.

Trams: Lisbon’s iconic trams, especially Tram 28, take you on a festive route through the historic Alfama district. These can be crowded, but during the festive season offer a nostalgic experience of walking through the narrow and decorated streets.

Buses and Trains: Lisbon’s trains are also efficient for day trips to Belém and Sintra. The Cascais Line takes you to Belém and the Sintra Line connects Lisbon to Sintra, ideal for festive day trips.

Viva Viagem Card: This reloadable card can be used on the metro, trams, buses and trains, making it an even more convenient and economical choice for transfers. This is best for those planning multiple rides.

Dining Recommendations Along the Route

Lisbon is famous for its culinary delights, and the holiday season also offers seasonal dishes and festive dining spots. Here are some recommended spots you can try along the festive route.

Café A Brasileira: Located in Chiado, this historic café is perfect for a warm drink and pastel breakfast. With a classic and cozy ambiance, it makes a relaxing stop during the festive walk.

Confeitaria Nacional: This bakery near Rossio Square is famous for its holiday pastries. In December, you can find Portuguese treats like bolo-rei (king cake) that taste special during the holiday season.

Mercado da Ribeira (Time Out Market): If you are in the Cais do Sodré area, a visit to the Time Out Market is a must. Here you can try seasonal menus and festive dishes that make a festive meal a pleasure.

Bota Alta: This traditional Portuguese restaurant in the Bairro Alto district serves warm ambiance and hearty dishes. Here you can enjoy traditional Portuguese flavors like bacalhau and caldo verde.

Staying Safe and Secure

Lisbon is a safe city, but some safety tips are helpful for crowded tourist areas or nighttime outings.

Beware of Pickpockets: Like popular cities in Europe, pickpockets can be found in tourist areas of Lisbon. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas such as Praça do Comércio, Rossio Square and on trams.

Use Well-Lit, Busy Streets: It’s safe to stay in well-lit and populated areas while exploring Lisbon’s holiday lights, especially if you’re solo. Main areas are safe but staying on busy streets is always better.

Plan Your Transportation in Advance: If you’re enjoying the lights late at night, plan your accommodation’s transportation options in advance. You can use Uber or Bolt if planning a late-night return.

Stay informed on local health guidelines: It’s also important to follow local health guidelines for festive events or crowded spots, especially if there are large crowds.

Conclusion

So friends, how did you like this blog? Do tell me by commenting. This time please those people also comment who have already visited this place once.

And they can share their experience with us. By the way, my job was to provide you the best information in this blog, which I have done.

If you feel that you want to go to some other place in December. Then you can tell me by commenting on this post.

I will make a detailed and fresh blog on that different place for you so that you can plan your journey by reading it. Till then be safe. Thank you.