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How to Enjoy Winter in Portugal

If you fancy a European trip during the winter, then Portugal is worth a look.

In terms of temperature, it is a country of contrasts at this time of year – the beaches remain open in the southern Algarve region, while skiing is available in Serra de Estrela in the east.

If you fancy something in between, New Year's Eve in Lisbon is lively and friendly. Here are my three suggestions for making the most of Portugal this winter.

Winter Walking in the Algarve

Cliff Walk in the Algarve
Cliff Walk in the Algarve

Winter is a great time to visit the traditionally touristy Algarve region, served by Faro Airport.

Rail links are good in Portugal. Inexpensive car hire can also be picked up during winter and is a great way to see the region.

Although some restaurants and shops will close, most remain open, with the only nod to the season being slightly reduced opening hours.

The climate during the winter is excellent for walking. 

Try the rugged cliff-top paths between Salema and Luz or, for the more committed walker, the Algarve Way runs across the region, from the Spanish border in the east to Cape St Vincent, where Portugal's south and west coasts meet.

New Year's Eve in Lisbon

Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal (photo: Yudis Asnar)

New Year's Eve in the capital Lisbon centers on Praça do Comércio (Commerce Square), or Terreiro do Paço (Palace Square), as confusingly it is often still known due to the palace that stood here until the late 18th century.

Located by the River Tagus, the evening typically involves a big-name band performing and fireworks to mark the beginning of the new year.

You don't have to be in the square to enjoy the fireworks – somewhere near the river is probably best and less crowded.

Afterward, it's a good plan to head to the Bairro Alto district, about a 15 to 20-minute walk away, where it's still lively, but a better selection of bars will be open through the night.

Skiing in Serra da Estrela

Fresh snow in Serra da Estrella, a popular area for skiing during winter in Portugal
Fresh snow in Serra da Estrella (photo: Luis Fonseca)

The Serra da Estrela National Park in western Portugal boasts the country's largest mountains, and during winter, there is skiing available.

It's not the biggest ski resort ever, but there are four lifts and nine runs, and it is ideal if you're into snowboarding or maybe just fancy a day or two on the slopes as part of a more extensive trip around the country. Even if you don't ski, the park looks stunning this time of year.

I love Portugal in the winter as it offers infinite possibilities, particularly in the south where the weather is temperate and the coast less crowded than at other times of the year.

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About the Author: This post was written by Duncan Constable.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

Détours du monde

Monday 3rd of December 2012

I highly recommend you to explore Portugal walking along the coastline. Rota Vicentina is a newly created long distance path along the Sw coast of Portugal, between the city of Santiago do Cacém and the Cape of St. Vincent, totalling more than 340 km to walk along one of the most beautiful and best preserved coast lines of southern Europe. http://detoursdumonde.wordpress.com/2012/09/03/jai-teste-la-rota-vicentina-episode-2/ http://detoursdumonde.wordpress.com/2012/08/24/jai-teste-la-rota-vicentina-episode-1/

Julika

Tuesday 27th of November 2012

Portugal is the very best European winter destination I could ever imagine! Unfortunately, Portugal had to cut down a lot of the Christmas lights (and the tree!) as well as most of the New Year's Eve fireworks recently, because of the country's severe financial crisis... But visiting the Algarve in January was one of the best things I ever did - it's gorgeous, low budget and you can still lay on the beach, which you have all for yourself! :)

Linda

Tuesday 1st of December 2015

I'm planning to be in Portugal this January (2015). Where did you stay in the Algarve that was near the lovely beaches and low budget? Any recommendations you suggest will be appreciated. I'm 66 solo, female, fairly experienced traveler.

Andi of My Beautiful Adventures

Tuesday 27th of November 2012

I've always wanted to spend NYE in Lisbon!

Michelle

Tuesday 27th of November 2012

Looks so pretty! I need a passport badly.

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