Portugal’s first Christmas lights – The city begins to glow

There’s a moment, every year, when Lisbon changes. The days get shorter, the air gets cooler, and then — without warning — the first Christmas lights turn on.

And just like that, the whole city begins to glow.

If you’ve ever wondered what Lisbon feels like at the start of the festive season, let me take you there.

The magic begins earlier than you think

Late November in Portugal is soft and calm.

The rush of summer is long gone, the autumn colours still linger, and the streets begin to prepare for the most festive time of the year.

You walk through Avenida da Liberdade and suddenly the trees sparkle.

You turn into Chiado and the façades shimmer with warm light.

Rossio Square smells of roasted chestnuts, cinnamon, and the first hints of Christmas markets setting up their wooden stalls.

It’s not loud.

It’s not rushed.

It’s a slow, gentle start — the kind that makes you smile without noticing.

Where to see the first Christmas lights in Lisbon

• Avenida da Liberdade:

  This is usually the first spot to light up. Elegant, wide, lined with illuminated trees — it feels like Lisbon is dressing up for the season.

• Rua Augusta & the Arco da Rua Augusta:

  The downtown pedestrian street becomes a glowing corridor leading to the river. The lights stretch from shop to shop until they reach the arch — a perfect place for photos at night.

• Chiado:

  Stylish, musical, full of movement. Chiado mixes traditional Portuguese charm with festive sparkle. Sometimes you’ll even catch carol singers in the evenings.

• Rossio Square:

  The heart of the city. When the Christmas stalls begin to appear and the lights reflect on the patterned pavement, it feels like a postcard.

• Belém:

  Quieter, wider, and incredibly beautiful when the monuments light up. The Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery get an extra touch of magic at this time of year.

Why is the start of the season special?

• Because it’s peaceful. No big crowds yet, no lines, no hurry. Just locals and travellers enjoying the first glow.

• Because the weather is gentle. Cool evenings, but mild compared to the rest of Europe. Perfect for wandering with a warm drink.

• Because traditions come alive. Chestnut vendors on corners, cafés offering bolo rei, and families strolling through Baixa after work to “see the lights” — a tradition as old as the decorations themselves.

• And because Lisbon shines differently in winter.Golden light by day, warm lights by night. It feels intimate, almost nostalgic.

Beyond the lights: what else to enjoy?

Pair the lights with:

✨ A cozy dinner in Alfama

✨ A fado night on a quiet street

✨ A visit to the Christmas market in Rossio or Campo Pequeno

✨ A walk by the river at sunset

✨ A warm glass of ginginha on a cold night

This is the time of year when Lisbon feels like a warm scarf — comforting, familiar, and full of small joys.

Planning a December trip to Portugal?

If you want to experience Lisbon’s first Christmas lights, the festive mood, the slow evenings, and the beauty of Portugal in winter, I’d be happy to guide you.

Let’s design a journey filled with seasonal flavours, warm corners, glowing streets, and the stories behind each neighbourhood.

👉 Book your private Lisbon experience at www.portugaljourneyswithpeppe.com

Because Portugal in December isn’t just beautiful — it feels like home.

Day tours from Lisbon

• Sintra & Cascais Tour: Palaces, gardens, ocean views, and pastel de travesseiro? Say less. I’ll guide you through Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and we’ll end the day by the sea.

• Fátima, Nazaré & Óbidos: Spiritual peace, monster waves, and medieval charm in one perfect day. You won't regret it.

• Évora & the Cork Trees: History, wine, and a side of something unexpected.

• Setúbal - Palmela: Wine, views, and the stunning Arrábida coastline — with dolphins if we’re lucky. It’s the kind of day that makes you fall in love with Portugal all over again.

• Remember: I can also take you on a Lisbon half day tour — quick, fun, and packed with hidden gems only a local would know

With Portugal Journeys With Peppe, all you have to do is show up ready to smile, eat, explore, and maybe dance a little.

My Fleet

No matter your group size or travel style, I’ve got the wheels to match — from comfy SUVs to spacious minibuses and a full-size bus for the party people. Let’s ride in comfort and style!

Check our prices HERE.

Book your private tour with Portugal Journeys With Peppe — and discover Portugal the way locals live it: slowly, warmly, and with heart.

Visit www.portugaljourneyswithpeppe.com or send me a message to plan your perfect Portuguese adventure.

Let’s make it personal. Join me for a private journey through Lisbon, Alentejo, or the Douro Valley — where every stop tells a story and every season has its own soul.

Peppe.