Feliz Natalia familia, and welcome to Portugal, one of the most magnificent countries in the world! It is the perfect place to visit if you want to get into the festive spirit, and is known to have some of the most vibrant Christmas markets in all of Europe. This is no surprise because the Portuguese love Christmas and celebrate the holidays thoroughly. So, it is only expected that the Christmas markets held here are something out of this world.
There is so much to do and see while you’re in Portugal. However, if you happen to be here during the festive season, visiting a Christmas market is an absolute must. So, lets find out more about some of the best Christmas markets in Portugal. Worry not, I’m about to give you a detailed guide into Portugal’s best kept Christmas secrets.
The Best Christmas Markets in Portugal
Christmas is a special time of the year in most places around the world. In Portugal the traditions are strong and have been passed down for generations. The nativity scenes, mass nights, traditional food and wonderful Christmas markets are a staple in this beautiful country during December. The Portuguese sure know how to have a fun Christmas! It is also a time that brings families, friends, colleagues and other loved ones closer together. There is no better place to be during the festive season, as you feel the true meaning of the holidays in this country. Let’s discover some wonderful places you can visit in Portugal this festive season.
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1. Wonderland Lisboa
First up in our guide to Portugal’s best kept Christmas secrets, we have Wonderland Lisboa. This is one of the most anticipated Christmas events in Lisbon. People wait all year long to attend this magical Christmas market because it offers the best of everything! This is the perfect Christmas themed fun fair for all ages and has become a beloved tradition for the city to host the Wonderland Lisboa every year. The locals love it, and it attracts more and more new faces from all over the country and the globe every year.
Furthermore, this market begins on the 30th of November 2024, and ends on the 1st of January 2025. Therefore there is enough time for you to plan your trip to this phenomenal Christmas market. It is located in Eduaordo VII Park in Lisbon. This is the ideal location for this event because you can easily reach it via various methods of public transport. The entrance into this market is free, however some attractions inside may require you to purchase tickets.
There are various fun activities you can enjoy at Wonderland Lisboa, and attractions include an ice-skating rink, Santa’s villages, a ferris wheel, live entertainment, as well as food, drinks and Christmas stalls. You can enjoy Portuguese Christmas treats such as bacalhou which is salted cod, sonhos, a fried dough and ginjinha which is a lovely sweet cherry liqueur. This is the perfect way to shop and enjoy the festivities, with some delicious Portuguese delights.
The local bands and dj’s, as well as the carollers fill the air with sweet sounding music, that puts you in that festive groove. Enjoy the performances and tasty treats, while you shop for your Christmas ornaments and gifts at the various stalls and booths available here. These are just a few reasons why this is one of the best Christmas markets in Portugal.
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2. The Magic of Christmas in Sintra
Next up on our list of the best Christmas markets in Portugal, we have The Magic of Christmas in Sintra. This market takes place in Liberdade Park & Terreiro Rainha D. Amélia in Sintra. If you’re looking for a fun day out for your kids, then look no further, as The Magic of Christmas in Sintra Market is typically aimed to entertain school children. It is the perfect place to enjoy a day out during the festive season during the holidays. But that doesn’t mean parents can’t enjoy it too.
This Christmas market in Portugal starts on the 1st of December 2024, and ends on the 31st of December 2024. The operating hours of this market vary, depending on the day of the week or what holiday it is. During the week the operating hours are from 9 am to 5 pm, and on weekends and holidays it is open from 11 am to 7 pm. However, on Christmas Eve and New Years Eve the market will close by 5pm, regardless of the day of the week. So, if I were you, I’d start planning my day out now.
There are many fun activities and exciting entertainment for you and your kids to enjoy here. You can visit the various stalls to buy unique treats and gifts. There is guaranteed entertainment for both young and old. The musical and theatrical events will leave you feeling nostalgic and appreciative about this special time of year. Circus performances, Christmas plays and Christmas parades filled with mascots will instill all the joy you need this festive season. And you can even give back this Christmas by donating goods to charitable organisations that are present at the market. So, you are guaranteed a feel-good time here. This is why you must visit this Christmas market in Portugal. It is one you won’t forget.
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Let’s Visit Some of The Best Christmas Markets in Portugal
Portugal has so much to offer this Christmas for you and your family. The Christmas markets mentioned above both have their own unique specialities to offer. Each of which make your holiday season so much more special and memorable. There is no better way to spend this special time of year in Portugal. And if you plan to be around Europe this December, why not visit a Christmas Market in London while you’re at it! A European Christmas is always a fantastic idea, so let’s get planning.
