Lisbon climate in December is characterised by gentle temperatures, reasonable rainfall, and overcast skies, making it a super time to go to the town’s festive environment and sights. Historic local weather information and professional opinion recommend that the town experiences a gradual local weather transition throughout this era, with temperatures starting from 9 to 14 levels Celsius. This gradual transition has a big affect on the town’s actions and festivals, making it an thrilling time to discover Lisbon’s distinctive tradition and traditions.
Lisbon’s December climate can be marked by excessive ranges of rainfall, with a median of 15 wet days all through the month. Nevertheless, this doesn’t deter vacationers and locals alike, as the town transforms right into a winter wonderland, providing a singular expertise that’s not like every other time of the 12 months.
Exploring Lisbon’s Climate in December
Lisbon, the capital metropolis of Portugal, experiences a light oceanic local weather because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. In December, the town’s climate is usually characterised by cool temperatures and occasional rainfall. Understanding the historic local weather information and professional opinion can present helpful insights into what to anticipate throughout this time.
December is among the cooler months in Lisbon, with common excessive temperatures starting from 14°C (57°F) to 17°C (63°F) all through the month. In a single day temperatures can drop considerably, starting from 6°C (43°F) to 9°C (48°F). Town receives a median of 14 wet days monthly, with most rainfall occurring through the latter a part of the month.
Rainfall and Sunshine
Rainfall is a big facet of Lisbon’s local weather in December, with a median of 120mm (4.7 in) of precipitation all through the month. The rain showers are often temporary, lasting for a number of hours, and are sometimes adopted by brilliant sunshine. Nevertheless, it is important to notice that the rain could be fairly heavy at occasions, inflicting occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
- In keeping with the Portuguese Meteorological Institute (IPMA), the common variety of wet days in Lisbon in December is 14. This represents about 45% of the whole days within the month.
- The typical annual rainfall in Lisbon is round 770mm (30.3 in), with December being one of many wettest months.
Excessive Climate Occasions
Whereas uncommon, Lisbon can expertise excessive climate occasions, akin to robust winds and thunderstorms, through the winter months. It is important to remain knowledgeable about climate forecasts and warnings to keep away from any potential disruptions.
- The European Centre for Medium-Vary Climate Forecasts (ECMWF) experiences that Lisbon experiences a median of 12 days with wind speeds exceeding 30 km/h (18.6 mph) in December.
- In keeping with the Portuguese Nationwide Authority for Civil Safety ( Autoridade Nacional de Proteção Civil), a median of 5 thunderstorm occasions happen in Lisbon through the winter months (December, January, and February).
Winter Festivities
Regardless of the cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, Lisbon is a good place to expertise the festive environment through the winter months. Town’s Christmas markets, illuminations, and festivities make it a beautiful time to go to.
- The Lisbon Christmas Market (Mercado de Natal de Lisboa) usually takes place from late November to early January and options quite a lot of stalls promoting native handicrafts, meals, and drinks.
- Town’s historic neighborhoods, akin to Bairro Alto and Alfama, are significantly magical through the winter months, with many buildings and streets adorned with festive lights and decorations.
Lisbon’s climate in December could also be cooler and wetter than what you are used to, but it surely’s nonetheless a superb time to go to, particularly should you take pleasure in gentle winters, festive environment, and exploring the town’s wealthy historical past and tradition.
The Finest Actions in Lisbon throughout December
Lisbon in December is an ideal mix of festive environment and comfortable winter vibes. Regardless of the occasional rain, the town has a lot to supply, from vacation markets to scenic winter walks. When you’re planning a visit to Lisbon through the winter months, listed below are some actions to take advantage of your go to.
Expertise Lisbon’s Christmas Lights
The Portuguese capital transforms right into a winter wonderland with its mesmerizing Christmas lights. Take a stroll by the historic neighborhoods of Alfama, Bairro Alto, and Chiado, and marvel on the twinkling lights adorning the buildings, church buildings, and streets. The Lisbon Christmas Lights Competition is a must-visit, with over 300,000 lights illuminating the town’s primary streets.
Go to Lisbon’s Vacation Markets
Lisbon’s vacation markets are a client’s paradise, providing a variety of native handicrafts, festive meals, and distinctive souvenirs. Essentially the most well-known one is the Christkindlmarkt, held within the Rossio Sq., that includes conventional Portuguese delicacies, mulled wine, and handmade decorations. Remember to strive some conventional sweets like pastéis de nata and biscoitos fios.
Take a Scenic Winter Stroll, Lisbon climate in december
Whereas the rain could be a bit chilly, it is nonetheless a good time to discover Lisbon’s scenic neighborhoods and parks. Take a winter stroll alongside the Tagus River, go to the picturesque neighborhood of Belém, or discover the plush Jardim Botânico. The cool winter air will invigorate you, and the surroundings will depart you in awe.
Go to the Lisbon Christmas Tree
The Lisbon Christmas Tree, situated within the Avenida da República, is a logo of the town’s festive spirit. This majestic tree is adorned with lights, ornaments, and a surprising star, making a magical environment. Take a photograph alternative with the festive backdrop and absorb the vacation vibes.
Bask in Conventional Portuguese Winter Meals
Lisbon’s winter delicacies is all about hearty, comforting dishes that’ll heat your stomach and soul. You should definitely strive some conventional Portuguese winter meals like caldo verde (a soup made with cabbage, potatoes, and kale), arroz doce (a candy rice dessert), and cozido à portuguesa (a stew made with beef, pork, and greens). Remember to pair it with a glass of Port wine!
Discover the Museums
Whereas the rain could be a bit gloomy, it is an amazing excuse to go to Lisbon’s many museums. The Nationwide Museum of Historic Artwork, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, and the Berardo Assortment Museum are only a few of the various establishments providing a glimpse into Lisbon’s wealthy cultural heritage. Study in regards to the metropolis’s historical past, artwork, and science whereas staying dry.
Navigating Lisbon’s Climate Challenges

Lisbon’s December climate could be fairly unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and cooler temperatures. To make sure a snug and pleasant journey, it is important for vacationers and expats to be ready for the challenges that include Lisbon’s winter climate.
Relating to navigating Lisbon’s climate challenges, there are a number of important suggestions that may make an enormous distinction. From dressing in layers to profiting from indoor actions, listed below are some professional suggestions that will help you keep forward of the sport.
Layer Up and Keep Heat
Dressing in layers is essential in Lisbon’s December climate, as temperatures can fluctuate considerably all through the day. Goal to put on a number of layers of sunshine clothes, together with a base layer, a sweater or fleece, and a water-resistant jacket. This won’t solely maintain you heat but additionally permit you to alter to altering temperatures with ease.
Keep Dry with a Waterproof Jacket
A water-proof jacket is a must have in Lisbon’s wet December climate. Search for a high-quality jacket that’s each waterproof and breathable, holding you dry and cozy even on the wettest days.
Take Benefit of Indoor Actions
Whereas Lisbon’s outside sights could be a pleasure to discover, the town additionally gives a plethora of indoor actions to take pleasure in. From world-class museums to historic castles, Lisbon has a lot to supply when the climate outdoors is lower than good. Contemplate visiting the Nationwide Pantheon, the Lisbon Metropolis Museum, or the Citadel of São Jorge, which supply a glimpse into the town’s wealthy historical past and tradition.
Uncover Lisbon’s Cozy Cafes
Lisbon is legendary for its cozy cafes, which supply the proper refuge from the rain. Seize a scorching chocolate or a cup of espresso and indulge within the metropolis’s wealthy caffeine tradition, which is bound to heat your spirits. Some well-liked cafes to go to embrace Café Comércio, Café Nicola, and Martinho da Arcada.
Plan Forward with Indoor Occasions
December is a good time to take pleasure in Lisbon’s cultural scene, with quite a few indoor occasions and festivals going down all through the month. From concert events and theater performances to artwork exhibitions and markets, Lisbon has one thing for everybody. You should definitely test the town’s occasions calendar to plan your journey accordingly.
Keep Secure within the Rain
Throughout Lisbon’s heavy rain showers, it is important to remain protected and conscious of your environment. Keep away from touring throughout peak rain hours, and take further precautions when strolling on moist streets or steps. Think about using public transportation or a taxi as an alternative of driving, as visibility could be poor throughout heavy rain.
Take Benefit of Lisbon’s Christmas Markets
Lisbon’s Christmas markets are a beautiful technique to get into the vacation spirit. That includes a spread of native merchandise, from handmade crafts to conventional delicacies, the markets provide a singular purchasing expertise. Some well-liked markets to go to embrace the Lisbon Christmas Market on the Rossio Plaza and the Feira de Natal on the Parque das Nações.
The Science Behind Lisbon’s Rainfall in December

Lisbon’s rainfall patterns in December are influenced by the town’s geographical location and its place within the path of moisture-rich air from the Atlantic Ocean. Portugal’s local weather is mostly categorized as Mediterranean, with influences from each the oceanic and continental local weather sorts. This mix of influences contributes to Lisbon’s distinctive rainfall patterns, which are inclined to peak within the winter months.
The first explanation for Lisbon’s rainfall in December is the presence of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), which brings heat, moist air from the equatorial area in direction of the Iberian Peninsula. This phenomenon is accountable for almost all of Portugal’s rainfall through the winter months, with the ITCZ’s affect peaking in December.
Regional Rainfall Patterns
The Azores Excessive, a high-pressure system that dominates the North Atlantic, performs a vital function in Lisbon’s rainfall patterns. Because the Azores Excessive strikes eastward, it blocks the trail of the westerly winds, resulting in a rise in rainfall alongside the western coast of the Iberian Peninsula, together with Lisbon. This phenomenon is usually noticed in December, leading to elevated rainfall alongside the western coast.
Town’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean implies that it’s vulnerable to the results of coastal climate patterns. Lisbon’s rainfall is influenced by the onshore movement of moist air from the ocean, which brings heat and moisture to the area. As this moist air rises, it cools and condenses, leading to rainfall.
“The Azores Excessive is a big think about figuring out Lisbon’s rainfall patterns in December.”
Month-to-month Rainfall Distribution
In keeping with information from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Environment (IPMA), December is among the wettest months in Lisbon, with a median rainfall of round 122 mm. The vast majority of this rainfall happens within the type of frontal methods, which convey heavy downpours and powerful winds to the area.
| Day | Common Rainfall (mm) |
| — | — |
| 1-10 | 30-40 mm |
| 11-20 | 40-50 mm |
| 21-31 | 50-60 mm |
Conclusion

In conclusion, Lisbon’s climate in December gives a singular mix of rain and sunshine, making it a super time to discover the town’s festive environment and sights. Guests can take pleasure in a spread of actions, from visiting the town’s well-known landmarks to taking part in its vibrant cultural occasions.
Important FAQs: Lisbon Climate In December
What’s the common temperature in Lisbon in December?
The typical temperature in Lisbon in December is round 11 levels Celsius, starting from 9 to 14 levels Celsius.
How a lot rainfall can guests count on in Lisbon in December?
Lisbon experiences a median of 15 wet days in December, with a median rainfall of 112 mm all through the month.
Are there any well-liked festivals or occasions in Lisbon in December?
Sure, Lisbon hosts a spread of festivals and occasions in December, together with the Lisbon Christmas Market, the Festa de Natal, and the Lisbon Jazz Competition.
What are the perfect actions to do in Lisbon in December?
Guests can take pleasure in a spread of actions in Lisbon in December, together with visiting the town’s well-known landmarks, taking part in cultural occasions, and exploring the town’s vibrant nightlife.