Top Things to Do in Lisbon in Winter

As winter descends on Europe, the charming city of Lisbon remains a vibrant destination. Visitors will find it brimming with warmth, culture, and a wide variety of activities. Lisbon is one of the best places to visit in Portugal in winter, offering unique experiences, ranging from exploring rich historical sites to soaking in the local culture and gastronomy. Here’s why you should consider visiting, what you can expect from the weather, and our top recommended things to do in Lisbon in winter.

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Is It Worth Visiting Lisbon in Winter?

Absolutely! Lisbon’s winter is milder than in most European capitals. While days are shorter and there is more rain than in summer, it is an ideal escape from the harsher winter climates of northern Europe and North America. The season brings fewer tourists, which means more space for you to explore at your leisure, from quiet moments in Lisbon’s famed museums to unhurried meals in its top-notch restaurants. Additionally, winter often brings lower prices, from accommodations to activities, making it a budget-friendly option for travelers. If you decide to visit Portugal in winter, consider also visiting Porto or heading south to the Alentejo, Algarve, or even to the island of Madeira.

Lisbon Weather in Winter

Lisbon enjoys one of the milder winters in Europe, characterized by temperate days and cooler nights. From December to February, temperatures typically range from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). While the city does experience more rainfall during the winter months, it usually comes in short bursts and is often interspersed with bright, sunny days, providing ample opportunity to explore both indoors and out.

Highlights of Lisbon in Winter

• Explore the Museums and Galleries
• Enjoy a Night at the Opera
• Taste Lisbon’s Culinary Delights
• Historic Tram and Funicular Rides
• Visit Belém
• Experience Lisbon and Fado at Night
• Holiday Festivities
• Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo and Take a Tile-Making Class
• Go to the Oceanário de Lisboa and Explore Parque das Nações
• Visiting the Cristo Rei  (Christ the King) Statue
• Day Trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra
• Visit the Charming Walled City of Óbidos
• Day Trip to Cascais
• Day Trip to Évora

Top Things to Do in Lisbon in Winter

1. Explore the Museums and Galleries

Winter in Lisbon provides the perfect backdrop for delving into the city’s thriving arts and culture. The cooler, quieter months invite leisurely exploration of Lisbon’s renowned museums and galleries, where you can admire everything from ancient artifacts to modern art. Here are a few must-visit venues that promise enriching experiences away from the bustling summer crowds. Don’t miss also taking a day trip to visit Cascais–with the museum card, visitors can take the train along the river to Cascais, visit unlimited museums, and take the train back, all for one low cost.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is one of Lisbon’s most celebrated institutions, housing an extensive collection that spans from the Ancient Egyptians to the early 20th century. Visitors will find masterpieces from the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens, and Monet, as well as Asian and Islamic arts, amongst others. The serene gardens surrounding the museum provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for a winter stroll.

Pavilhão do Conhecimento – Ciência Viva

A haven for children and science enthusiasts, the Pavilhão do Conhecimento (Knowledge Pavilion) is a vibrant interactive science and technology museum located in the Parque das Nações. This museum is particularly engaging for younger visitors, with exhibits designed to spark curiosity and encourage hands-on learning about various scientific and technological topics. From physics experiments to live demonstrations and interactive games, it’s a place where science comes to life and ignites a passion for discovery among all age groups.

Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga

The National Museum of Ancient Art, set in a stunning 17th-century palace, holds Portugal’s national collection of art from the 12th to the 19th century. Its galleries are filled with significant works, including the Panels of St. Vincent by Nuno Gonçalves that depict the arrival of Portuguese traders to Japan in the 16th century. The museum’s location, overlooking the Tagus River, offers a picturesque setting that enhances the visitor experience.

Berardo Collection Museum

For lovers of modern and contemporary art, the Berardo Collection Museum in Belém is definitely worth a visit. This museum boasts an impressive collection of artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries, featuring pieces by Picasso, Warhol, and Dali, among others. The exhibits are well-curated and provide a comprehensive overview of the major movements and figures in modern art.

MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology

The MAAT is a relatively new addition to Lisbon’s cultural scene but has quickly become a favorite for its innovative exhibitions and striking architecture. Situated along the river in Belém, the museum’s sleek, futuristic building is a work of art in itself. Inside, the focus is on contemporary art, architecture, and technology, with a strong emphasis on environmental and social themes. The rooftop offers breathtaking views of the Tagus River, making it a perfect spot for reflective moments after enjoying the exhibits.

2. Enjoy a Night at the Opera

The historic São Carlos Theater offers a splendid lineup of operas and concerts during the winter season. Enjoy an evening of exquisite music in one of the city’s most opulent settings.

3. Taste Lisbon’s Culinary Delights

Lisbon’s food scene is robust and varied. Winter is the perfect time to enjoy hearty Portuguese dishes like “bacalhau” (salted cod), stews, and other local specialties that will warm you from the inside out. Cervejaria Romiro is a classic and great choice for Portuguese seafood specialties. Don’t miss the chance to visit Time Out Market, a food hall featuring some of the city’s best chefs. There are a number of great food tours in Lisbon included below. Give these a try to get insider insights as you explore town!

One of the ways to get off the beaten path in Lisbon is to join a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Portuguese dishes such as “caldo verde” (kale soup) and “arroz de pato” (duck rice). It’s a fun and engaging way to immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Check out a few options below.

4. Historic Tram and Funicular Rides

Take Tram 28 for a historic tour of Lisbon’s most picturesque neighborhoods. It’s an affordable and charming way to see the city’s hills, colorful buildings, and essential landmarks.

And, don’t miss taking one of the three funiculars, Elevador do Lavra, Elevador da Glória, and Elevador da Bica.

Tuk Tuk tours are a more customized way to explore the city in style, don’t miss these experiences!

5. Visit Belém

Winter or not, no trip to Lisbon is complete without visiting Belém. Here you can explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Jerónimos Monastery and Belém Tower. Some of the other top things to see and experience in Belém are:

• Fábrica dos Pastéis de Belém: Just down the street from the monastery, enjoy a “pastel de nata” from its original home at Pastéis de Belém;
• Centro Cultural de Belém, which hosts the Berardo Museum mentioned previously;
• Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries) along the riverfront;
• MAAT museum, with free access to its rooftop for incredible views;
• Palácio de Belém, or the Palace of Belém, the residence of the Portuguese President, has limited tours available.

6. Experience Lisbon and Fado at Night

Experience the soul of Portuguese music with a night of Fado. This traditional music genre, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, is best enjoyed in the historic Alfama district over a glass of vinho verde.

7. Holiday Festivities

If you’re visiting during the holiday season, Lisbon lights up with Christmas decorations and markets, bringing festive cheer and the perfect opportunity for unique holiday shopping. Some of the Christmas attractions in and around Lisbon to visit are:

• Rossio Square Christmas market
• Praça da Figueira Christmas market (primarily focused on foods)
• Wonderland Lisbon in Parque Eduardo VII with ice skating and a ferris wheel
• Praça do Comércio’s huge artificial Christmas tree

Outside of Lisbon, don’t miss:

• Reino Natal in Sintra
• Obidos Christmas village
• Cascais Christmas Village

8. Visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo and Take a Tile-Making Class

Discover the art of Portuguese azulejos (tiles) at the National Tile Museum. After exploring the beautiful exhibits, participate in a tile-making workshop where you can create your own tile as a unique souvenir.

9. Go to the Oceanário de Lisboa and Explore Parque das Nações

The Lisbon Oceanarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe. It offers a captivating deep dive into marine life and is one of the highlights of the modern Parque das Nações. This expansive park, originally developed for the 1998 Lisbon World Expo, is a showcase of contemporary architecture and urban planning along the scenic Tagus River. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along its wide promenades and a gondola ride over the river. The promenade features an array of educational exhibits that blend seamlessly with leisure spaces. Don’t miss visiting the giant cat statue made of recycled plastic by Bodalo II.

The Oceanarium itself is home to a vast array of marine species, displayed in beautifully designed habitats that mimic different oceanic environments. The experience is educational and fascinating for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal family outing. The combination of Parque das Nações and the Oceanarium provides a perfect blend of nature, science, and recreation, making it a must-visit on any winter trip to Lisbon.

10. Visiting the Cristo Rei  (Christ the King) Statue

A trip to Lisbon in winter is enhanced by a visit to the Christ the King statue, an inspiring monument across the Tagus River. Modeled after Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, this towering figure offers a panoramic view of Lisbon’s stunning cityscape. Reachable via a scenic ferry ride from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas and a subsequent short bus trip, the statue presents a unique vantage point from its elevated platform. Be sure to stop by the Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Paz at the base, which is free to enter.

11. Day Trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sintra

Just a short train ride away from Lisbon, Sintra is an ideal day trip during the cooler winter months. The town is renowned for its Romantic architectural marvels, such as the Pena Palace with its vivid colors and the mysterious Quinta da Regaleira with its enchanting gardens and hidden tunnels. Winter often brings fewer tourists and a mystical fog that blankets the town, enhancing the fairy-tale ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend a day wandering through the historic center, exploring the castles, and enjoying traditional Portuguese pastries in a local café.

12. Visit the Charming Walled City of Óbidos

A day trip to the charming walled city of Óbidos is a must when exploring Portugal in winter, especially to experience its famous Christmas market. Located about an hour from Lisbon, this picturesque town transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with traditional decorations and a vibrant market selling everything from unique crafts to seasonal treats like the local ‘ginjinha’ cherry liqueur. Stroll the cobblestone streets, admire the Gothic architecture, and soak in the festive atmosphere. The Christmas market, coupled with Óbidos’s rich history and warm hospitality, provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of Lisbon and a deeper glimpse into Portuguese culture and traditions during the holiday season.

13. Day Trip to Cascais

Escape Lisbon’s winter chill with a day trip to Cascais, a glamorous seaside town where the Atlantic meets old-world charm. Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Cascais offers a delightful mix of sandy beaches, historic fortresses, and lively cobblestone streets. Winter in Cascais is quieter but no less beautiful, with fewer tourists and crisp sea air. Explore the picturesque town center, visit the Santa Marta Lighthouse Museum, the Paula Rego museum, or one of the other museums all included on Cascais’ museum card. Bundle up on a colder day for a walk along the coast past the marina, the Citadel, and the Boca do Inferno cliff formation. Cascais’s seaside eateries provide cozy retreats where you can sample fresh seafood while overlooking the ocean.

14. Day Trip to Évora

A day trip to Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city in the heart of the Alentejo region, offers a journey through history amidst the tranquility of the Portuguese countryside. About an hour and a half from Lisbon by train, Évora is famous for its well-preserved Roman Temple, the eerie Chapel of Bones, and a beautifully intact old town center encircled by medieval walls. Winter days are typically mild and sunny, ideal for wandering through Évora’s narrow streets lined with white-washed houses. Don’t miss the chance to taste local Alentejo cuisine, renowned for its rich flavors and hearty dishes, which perfectly complement the region’s robust wines. For those interested in seeing the nearby megaliths, taking a tour to see the highlights of Évora and the neighboring megaliths may be the best choice.

Lisbon in Winter Wrap-Up

By embracing Lisbon in the winter, you can enjoy the city’s seasonal charm without the crowds, all while experiencing its rich history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether it’s rain or shine, Lisbon has something to offer every traveler during the winter months. When you plan your Lisbon winter getaway, consider extending your trip to visit the many other wonderful Portugal winter destinations!

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