It’s officially Christmas in Porto come December 1 when the holiday lights switch on, illuminating main streets like Avenida dos Aliados and Rua de Santa Caterina. December is packed with Christmas markets, celebratory concerts, and other family-friendly activities in Porto.
Find handmade gifts and try bolo rei (Portuguese Christmas cake) at the Cordoaria’s Garden Christmas Market, combine a Santa meet–and–greet with a wine tasting at WOW Porto, or enjoy a traditional Portuguese dinner on the scenic Douro River. Here are six festive ways to enjoy the best things to do in Porto at Christmas time.
Everything you need to know about Christmas in Porto
Best holiday market: Porto Christmas Market in Cordoaria Garden
Average temperature: A high of 14 C (58 F) and low of 7 C (44 F)
Key holiday days: On Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8), Christmas Eve and Christmas Day (December 24–25), and Feast of the Holy Innocents (December 28) most businesses are closed.
Best Christmas activities for kids: WOW Porto and the Christmas Village in Matosinhos