Weather in Portugal in December

As the year comes to a close, Portugal travel in December has a festive, welcoming atmosphere. City streets are lit up, villages feel cozy, and there’s a seasonal buzz from Lisbon to the Algarve.

Here’s what you need to know about the weather in Portugal in December, and what to expect if you’re planning a trip during this time.

The weather in Portugal in December at a glance

• December in Portugal is mild but damp, with a bit of chill in the air.
• Temperatures usually range from 46°F to 61°F (8°C to 16°C).
• It’s the start of the festive season, so you'll see Christmas markets and decorations around the cities, adding to the seasonal charm.
• Expect some rain now and then, but the crowds are much smaller compared to summer, and it’s a quieter time to explore.

What is the weather like in Portugal in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal in December, be prepared for winter weather, with cooler temperatures, shorter days, and a fair chance of rain, especially in the north. While it’s not beach season, it’s a quieter, more atmospheric time to explore the country.

Lisbon and the southern coast are milder, with average highs around 59°F (15°C), while Porto and the north are cooler and wetter. Rainfall can reach up to 150mm in the north, so it’s smart to keep plans flexible and pack for wet weather.

The upside? Fewer tourists, lower prices, and cities glowing with Christmas lights and local festivities. It’s a great time to wander decorated streets, warm up in a café, or visit museums without the crowds.

While December isn’t the best time to visit Portugal for sun and surf, it’s ideal if you’re after a slower pace, cultural experiences, and a festive winter vibe; just don’t forget your umbrella.

Average temperatures in December

Portugal in December is in the early part of winter, with mild to cool weather depending on where you are. Daytime temperatures usually sit between 50°F and 64°F (10°C to 18°C), while nights can drop to 39°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C).

Compared to the hotter summer months, this is a cooler and wetter time of year, but still relatively mild for Europe. Rain is more frequent now, especially in the north, though you’ll still get some clear, crisp days.

Sea temperatures hover around 61°F to 63°F (16°C to 17°C), which can feel chilly for swimming unless you're used to colder water or wearing a wetsuit. Most people stick to walking along the beach rather than getting in.

Days are short in December, with about 9 to 10 hours of daylight depending on the region.

Is December a good time to visit Portugal?

If you're considering Portugal trips in December, expect a quieter, more laid-back vibe, with fewer tourists, festive city scenes, and milder weather than much of Europe. The weather in Portugal in December is cool and damp in places, especially up north, but the coast stays relatively mild, with Lisbon and the Algarve offering decent conditions for exploring.

It’s a great time to experience the country without the summer crowds. Cities like Porto, Coimbra, and Évora feel more local, and you’ll have time to linger over long lunches at some of the best restaurants in Portugal, many of which serve seasonal favorites like roasted chestnuts, bacalhau, and rich pastries.

Traveling in Portugal with kids? December brings lights, Christmas markets, and cozy cafés, making it a family-friendly time to visit. Just pack layers and be ready for a few rainy spells.

While it's not ideal for sunbathing, December offers a different kind of charm, more cultural, more relaxed, and just as memorable.

Why December is a good time to visit:

• A quieter pace: December is a slower travel month, which means less crowded streets, shorter lines at museums, and a more relaxed feel in cities and towns.
• Seasonal charm: Streets glow with lights, and local markets offer festive treats, crafts, and winter snacks. It’s a cozy, atmospheric time to explore.
• Lower travel costs: Outside of the Christmas and New Year period, early December often comes with better hotel rates and flight deals.
• Comfortable for exploring: While some regions see rain, much of the country remains walkable, with crisp air and fewer tourists clogging up popular sites.
• Perfect for indoor culture: From tile-covered palaces to world-class art museums and historic cafés, it’s an ideal time to dive into Portugal’s rich heritage, without the summer heat.

What about crowds and costs?

December is low season in Portugal, so things are noticeably quieter. Major sights stay open, but without the long lines or packed viewpoints of summer. Cities move at a slower pace, which can be a welcome change if you’re looking to avoid the crowds.

It’s also a good time to save money. Flights, hotels, and transport often come with lower rates, and last-minute reservations are easier to manage. Some spots even offer winter deals.

There are a few trade-offs. Smaller-town attractions may close earlier or shut completely around the vacations, so check opening times before you go.

For similar crowd levels but milder weather, consider March or October, still off-peak, but with a bit more sun.

Where to go in Portugal in December

The weather in Portugal in December is cooler but milder than much of Europe, making it a solid choice for a winter escape. While rain is more common up north, the south stays relatively pleasant, which is ideal for city breaks and scenic drives.

From festive streets in Lisbon to coastal charm in Madeira, here are some of the best places to visit in Portugal in December.

Lisbon

Lisbon feels relaxed and festive in December. Avenida da Liberdade glows with lights, and Praça do Comércio and Rossio Square put up big, maritime-themed displays. Wonderland Lisboa takes over Eduardo VII Park with an ice rink and vacation market.

If rain hits, head to the older neighborhoods, some of the best areas to stay in Lisbon, like Alfama or Baixa. Duck into a cozy tasca for a plate of bacalhau and a glass of ginjinha, and enjoy the slower winter pace.

Madeira Island

Madeira stays mild in December, with Funchal lighting up for the vacations. Stick around for New Year’s Eve, and you’ll catch one of Europe’s best fireworks shows.

Earlier in the month, visit Mercado dos Lavradores for seasonal fruits, flowers, and candy. Levada walks are cooler and less crowded, and the island stays green and vibrant, making it a tempting winter extension for 11-day Portugal trips that go beyond the mainland.

Óbidos Vila Natal

Óbidos turns into a festive medieval village in December, with skating, lights, market stalls, and fairground rides. The scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, and locals line for ginjinha in chocolate cups.

It’s a favorite for families but also makes a great low-key day trip. The cobbled streets and castle walls feel extra atmospheric; just bring warm layers and good shoes.

What to do in Portugal in December

The weather in Portugal in December is cooler and wetter than in summer, but the slower pace and festive atmosphere make it a rewarding time to visit. Crowds thin out, small towns light up, and you’ll see a more local side of the country. If you’re looking for relaxed, seasonal things to do in Portugal, here are a few that stand out.

Browse Christmas markets

In December, town squares across Portugal transform into Mercados de Natal. Lisbon’s Campo Pequeno hosts a large indoor market with crafts and regional snacks, while smaller towns like Vila Real de Santo António keep things cozy but charming. Expect handmade goods, sweet treats, and hot drinks, some spiked, some not.

Hear live fado

Fado fits the winter mood: slow, soulful, and intimate. Catch a performance in Lisbon’s Alfama or Bairro Alto, where traditional fado houses pair dinner with live music. Coimbra has its own version, often performed by students, with a slightly different tone.

Soak in thermal baths

Chilly days are perfect for hot springs. Head to São Pedro do Sul, Chaves, or Caldas da Rainha for naturally warm waters, often around 95-104°F (35-40°C). Some spas offer massages and treatments, making it an easy way to unwind.

Plan your trip with our Portugal itineraries

If you’re planning a trip to Portugal in December, a sample itinerary is a great place to start to make sure you make the most of your trip. Here are some of our favorite Portugal itineraries:

• 5-day Portugal itinerary: Spend 2 days in Lisbon, visiting Alfama, Belém, and Baixa. Then, head to Porto for 3 days to explore Ribeira, visit wine cellars, and enjoy a scenic river cruise.
• 7-day Portugal itinerary: From Foz do Minho to Nazaré, Caparica, Galapos, Comporta, and the Algarve beaches, you’ll get a great mix of coastlines.
• 10-day Portugal itinerary: A 10-day journey through Lagos, Évora, Elvas, Lisbon, Coimbra, Serra da Estrela, Porto, and Peneda-Gerês National Park gives you the full picture of Portugal.