Lisbon In January: The Best Landmarks & Hidden Gems

Are you searching for an amazing opportunity to travel during the off-season? Why not visit Lisbon in January?

Yes, it’s probably a good idea. The advantage of visiting such a great city right after the busy and expensive holiday season is that Lisbon enjoys a significant decrease in flight and hotel rates after the New Year.

You’ll be able to see a whole new side of the city without the tourist crowds, even though it might be the coldest month. Let’s look at some awesome things to do, see, and wear when visiting Lisbon in January!

Lisbon In January – Things To Do

Catch up on the last few days of Christmas Markets

Early January is a great time to visit the Christmas markets! With Christmas markets opening in the first week of January, Lisbon maintains a festive atmosphere well into the month.

Furthermore, there might be winter sales because they are going to close. In the city center, Rossio Square is host to one of the most well-known markets.

Also, don’t miss the chance to visit Christmas Market Wonderland in January before it closes until the following year.

Jennifer, an enthusiastic traveler, advises – “You will also get to skate on the ice rink, which is something I highly suggest if you’re visiting Lisbon with kids—they’ll love it!”

Visit Jerónimos Monastery

Explore Jerónimos monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a magnificent example of Manueline architecture.

It is situated in one of Lisbon’s most aristocratic neighborhoods with a view of the Tagus River and a historically significant and monumental environment. The Portuguese architect Diogo de Boitaca created the religious building to honor Vasco da Gama’s return from India.

So put it on your winter travel list as a must-see during your trip to Lisbon.

Taste the Bolo Rei of Three Kings Day

A national celebration known as Dia de Reis, or Three Kings’ Day, happens on January 6th in Portugal, and if you happen to be in Spain during the winter, you’ll also get to witness this.

On this day, people celebrate the biblical story of the three wise men, or kings, who visited the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem and gave him presents.

Bolo Rei is the star of the show on Dia de Reis. A key part of the celebrations is this “King Cake,” a round piece of sweet bread with candied fruits on top to resemble a crown.

Antonio, a local boy, says- “My recommendation is to book your bolo rei in advance, as on January 6 the pastry shops are only open to deliver orders and, in addition, there is usually a lot of demand for these cakes, so you don’t want to miss out on one!”

Take advantage of the January sales to do your shopping

January in Lisbon brings a shopaholic’s dream to life with the much-anticipated winter sales. Prices drop everywhere in Lisbon, from luxury brands to local shops.

The January sales offer affordable prices to purchase products you’ve been eyeing, like Portuguese leather shoes, designer essentials, or traditional cork bags. So, take advantage of unbeatable deals that make Lisbon a true shopper’s delight during winter.

Visit several museums and indoor activities

Another advantage of visiting Lisbon in January is the lack of crowds when visiting the museums. Lisbon is a very artistic city with museums being categorized by historical eras and stylistic movements that cater to a wide range of tastes.

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is stuffed to the brim with European masterpieces, Islamic orientalism, Greco-Roman art, and Egyptian treasures. This museum stands out as a testament to the cultural richness and artistic diversity of Lisbon.

Additionally, don’t miss visiting the National Azulejo Museum if you’re eager to learn more about Lisbon’s obsession with azulejos, the shining ceramic tiles that adorn the city’s façades.

There are many more museums to suit all tastes, such as the Fado Museum, the Carmo Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology (MAAT), and the Maritime Museum, all worth your time.

Take amazing photos of Alfama’s viewpoints

You may not need to rise so early to avoid the crowds at the viewpoints or districts if you visit the Portuguese capital in January. The districts of Alfama and Mouraria, famous for their colorful buildings and winding lanes have fewer crowds, which makes for more stunning photos!

Photographers can clearly capture the blend of modern energy and historic charm by exploring Alfama’s viewpoints during the winter months.

Lisbon In January – The Weather

Lisbon is famous for having mild temperatures all year round. As most people visit Lisbon in the spring or summer, you should be aware that the temperatures are lower this month.

Average temperatures during the day will be about 15°C, however, there may be cooler temperatures at night. Days in Lisbon during January are characterized by a mix of sunshine and occasional rainfall.

Lisbon In January – What To Pack And Wear

Consider the occasional rainy and mild weather when preparing for a winter trip to Lisbon. Don’t forget to bring walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and warm layers for the evening to explore Lisbon’s famed cobblestone streets. Bring a mix of sweaters, long-sleeved shirts, and comfortable trousers for daytime exploration.

Also, bring one or two lighter layers as well. If you happen to witness one of Lisbon’s sunny winter days, you might find that the warmer parts of the day do not necessitate a heavy coat.

Want to know more? Read our guide on what to wear in Lisbon.

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