The final stretch of the year arrives, and Portugal takes on a different glow. Known as the warmest winter corner of Europe, it's no wonder: you can always count on pleasant winter sunshine, mild weather and light winds from December to February. It is not out of the question to walk on the beach at Christmas time, or to spend the afternoon on a beautiful esplanade.

But the whole country comes alive with Christmas entertainment, starting with the lights that bring joy and colour to urban centres - and not only. Christmas carols can be heard, the delights of the season can be seen filling the windows of pastry shops, from Bolo Rei to Filhoses, not forgetting Rabanadas (French toast); it is magical to experience Christmas in Portugal.

Óbidos Vila Natal, ©Câmara Municipal de Óbidos

And at the centre of this magic are the Christmas markets and fairs, which animate localities from north to south of the country. Among sweets, local products, handicrafts and Christmas gifts, it is possible to find everything at these events, which usually have a Father Christmas present, often elves and other entertainment dedicated to the theme, providing unforgettable moments for the whole family.

The markets have another glow, very Portuguese; a welcoming people, with their own genuineness that reaches the stalls. The sweets are made with love, delivered with a smile; the souvenirs are for life and are sustainable, as the local handicrafts are made from materials unique to our country, such as cork and recyclable fibres. And this year, the big holiday events are really returning to Portugal!

Aldeia Natal de Cabeça, ©Pedro Ribeiro

In Lisbon, Wonderland returns to the heart of the city, in Eduardo VII Park, between November 29th and January 5th, 2025, and with it the huge Ferris wheel and the ecological ice rink. In the downtown area (Baixa), the Rossio Christmas Market is back until December 22th, promising lots of fun for the whole family, as well as traditional handicraft and gastronomy stalls. Take the time to attend one of the various Christmas concerts that return to the city with the “Natal em Lisboa” (Christmas in Lisbon) programme.

Near Lisbon, Cascais transforms into a true "Christmas village" from November 23rd t to January 5th, 2024, featuring the Christmas Market, Santa's House, an ice rink, and, of course, the usual Ferris wheel in Cascais Bay. In Setúbal Natal, which runs from November 23rd to January 5th, 2025, features as its main highlight the market on Avenida Luísa Todi, offering regional products, handicrafts, gastronomy, Casa do Pai Natal, a food court, and a program full of activities for the whole family

©Henrique Seruca/Visit Madeira

In Porto, throughout December, a program full of activities promises to bring all the magic of Christmas. Among the attractions are ice rinks, music performances, light displays, and various entertainment events, in addition to the traditional fairs and seasonal markets In Viseu, from December 8th to January 7th, 2025, the city once again experiences the magic of Christmas through a programme full of initiatives, including the Christmas Market, workshops, shows, and concerts for both kids and adults.

But in other parts of the country, the same Christmas atmosphere can be found: in Bragança, the "Land of Nativity and Dreams" returns from November 30th to January 6th, 2025, with a vast program throughout the city.  Its main attractions include a natural ice rink and a 40-meter ramp, both sure to provide plenty of fun. In Santa Maria da Feira, it's "Perlim - A Dream Farm" that returns once again with various attractions promising a lot of magic. In Águeda, the famous and welcoming umbrellas and the "World's Largest Santa Claus" await you from November 16th to January 12th, 2025.

In Seia, the Christmas Village of Cabeça is a unique celebration, using only decorations made from nature and managed by residents, welcoming visitors from December 7th to January 1st, warmed by wool from the Serra da Estrela. And of course, Óbidos Christmas Village cannot be missed, which will turn into the School of Wizards to welcome all the little and big magic apprentices, from November 30th to December 31st.

In Penamacor, from December 7th to 25th, "Vila Madeiro" celebrates Christmas with various attractions, but the highlight is the arrival of the "madeiro" (large log) and the lighting of the bonfire in the church square, bringing together not only the locals but also tourists.

On the island of Madeira, from December 1st to January 7th, the atmosphere is festive, and the entertainment is daily, with a highlight on the Market Night, December 23rd, and of course, the famous fireworks in Funchal Bay, December 31.

Check our agenda for more suggestions, but one thing is certain, no matter which region of Portugal you visit: you will experience a Christmas season full of colour and tradition.