While there are many similarities between Christmas in Portugal and other European countries, there are also some unique traditions and characteristic to discover. Here are five of the best places to enjoy Christmas in Portugal.
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Vila Real de Santo Antonio
Sitting on the border with Spain, the charming town of Vila Real de Santo Antonio transforms into a winter wonderland every December.
The picturesque square, and the town’s focal point, is where more of the festivities occur. Here you’ll find a magical Christmas market selling handcrafted gifts as well as an ice rink and even Santa’s grotto!
Vila Real de Santo Antonio nativity scene – Mauro Rodrigues / Shutterstock.com
However, it is the impressive nativity scene that really steals the show. The beautiful nativity scene is said to be the largest in Portugal and features over 5000 tiny figures, complete with beautiful lighting. It is exhibited each year at the Centro Cultural António Aleixo.
And the town’s offerings don’t end there – it is just 40 minutes from Faro airport, and only 90 minutes to Seville in the opposite direction. With both Spanish and Portuguese beaches and amenities on hand, it’s a true “best of both worlds.”
Faro
Capital of the Algarve and the location of the region’s main airport, many people often pass through Faro without giving it a second look. But this classy city has so much to offer and is a great place to visit at Christmas time.
Come December, the whole city sparkles as Christmas lights and glistening trees line the streets and buildings. There is a fantastic shopping centre too that has its own spectacular light display – it is an excellent place to buy Christmas gifts!
With the airport being just ten minutes from the city centre, a property in Faro would be easily accessible all year. What’s more, it is a great base to explore the rest of the Algarve from.
Why not split the cost and double the fun of owning a holiday home in Portugal by buying with family or friends? Read our guide to Buying Abroad with Family
Tavira
Head just 40 minutes east of Faro and you’ll reach the pretty city of Tavira. While the city has long been a popular spot for holidaymakers in the summer, it has plenty to offer in the winter too.
It is a gorgeous place, and the addition of twinkling lights at Christmas time just add to the charm. The narrow, cobbled streets are the perfect place to browse for presents, eat festive treats and sip on some mulled wine.
The city also boasts some beautiful architecture, including a “Roman” bridge and an amphitheatre.
Lisbon
Arguably the best place to enjoy Christmas in Portugal is in the capital city of Lisbon. Here you’ll find several large Christmas markets as well as a similar event to London’s Winter Wonderland. At Wonderland Lisboa, you’ll find all the usual attractions, including ice skating and a chance to meet the big man himself, but entry is free and it feels less commercialised than the London event.
Lisbon at Christmas
The city is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and is a great year-round destination – a property there would be a brilliant investment. Property is more affordable than many other cities in Europe and the rental potential is incredibly high.
Along with a rich history, there is a buzzing nightlife and the weather is mild throughout the year.
Óbidos
Finally, we take a look at the medieval town of Óbidos. Just an hour from Lisbon and extremely close to the popular beaches along the Silver Coast, this town has a festive feel about it all-year long.
This is probably due to the magnificent stone wall that encompasses the town, making the whole place feel like a hidden Christmas wonderland.
At Christmas time, there are plenty of festivities including ice-skating, an ice slide and concerts and performances.
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