Christmas time is all about family, friends, and good food – and Christmas markets have a little bit of everything!
Christmas markets first appeared in Germany at the end of the 14th Century quickly became popular spreading all over Europe. Merchants from Portugal also began to set up stalls in the central squares of the cities and villages. The Christmas markets were so popular that they became an annual event.
Nowadays, Christmas markets (or “Mercado de natal” in Portuguese) are held all over Lisbon, but there are some places where you can find them every year:
- Wonderland Lisboa in the park of Eduardo VII
- Rossio Christmas Market
- Campo Pequeno Christmas Market
- and of course The Christmas tree and Market on Praca do Comercio.
These markets offer traditional Portuguese food like bacalhau as well as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. And of course, you will be able to try some Christmas desserts like the famous Portuguese pudding or “bolo rei”.
Most Lisbon Christmas markets are open from 11.30 am to 9 pm starting from early December. Some of them stay open later, especially on weekends. Make sure you visit at least one of these Christmas markets in Lisbon to capture the Christmas spirit!
Christmas Market in Rossio square
This Christmas Market is one of the oldest markets that started in Lisbon. It is located in Rossio square, in the old city center.
There you will find around 60 stalls with Christmas products from all over Portugal and Europe. There is also a stage for Christmas concerts. The Christmas Market in Rossio has been taking place every Christmas since the 19th Century, making it a cherished tradition.
Dates: all December
Opening hours: midday – around 10 pm
Market in Figueira Square
It’s close to the Christmas Market in Rossio square, and so you can visit them both.
You can buy Christmas gifts here and sample Christmas food and drinks (the best mulled wine I’ve tried in Lisbon can be found here).
I mentioned this Market because it’s located just above the parkade (Estacionamento da Praça da Figueira), which is very convenient if you want to come to central Lisbon by car.
Wonderland Lisboa in Parque Eduardo VII
This Christmas Market is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the Portuguese capital. It is located in Parque Eduardo VII, a beautiful park near Marques de Pombal Square.
Not only are there more than 100 Christmas stalls with national and international products, but there is also a Christmas carousel, an ice skating rink, an “enchanted forest,” and sparkling lights every night. At the highest part of the Parque Eduardo VII is a viewpoint with a beautiful panorama view of Lisbon and the Tagus river.
Wonderland Market is the perfect place to visit with the whole family. Kids love it for the variety of attractions and parents for a variety of gifts and Christmas treats.
Dates: 1 December 2021 – 2 January 2022
Opening hours: Midday – 9 pm on weekdays and 10 am – Midnight on weekends
Contacts: https://www.facebook.com/wonderlandlisboaoficial/
Small Market at El Corte Ingles Entrance
This Market is pretty small, it consists only of two or three stalls and a Christmas tree, located at the entrance of El Corte Ingles Mall. But it is still worth visiting because you can do Christmas shopping in El Corte Ingles and visit another Christmas Market – Wonderland Lisboa, just across the road.
Campo Pequeno Christmas Market and Shopping Center
This Christmas Market is located in the Campo Pequeno bullring. Actually, it’s not a Christmas Market itself but a shopping center with many attractions – a cinema, and restaurants offering different cuisine.
At this market, you will find Christmas gifts, food, and drinks from all over Portugal and pick up almost anything, because, as I mentioned, it’s a shopping mall that is open throughout the year.
Opening hours: 10 am – 11 pm
Contacts: https://www.campopequeno.com/
BONUS - Christmas Tree in Praca do Comercio and restaurants on Rua Augusta.
Praca do Comercio is the main square in the Portuguese capital. A Christmas tree with thousands of twinkling lights is set up every year and is different from previous years. It is one of the most spectacular Christmas trees in Lisbon!
The square is surrounded by restaurants and bars, where you can have a Christmas drink or dinner while enjoying the Christmas atmosphere. If you walk through the decorated Rua Augusta you will come to the Christmas Market in Rossio.
Things to consider before going to the Markets
- Some of the markets require a negative COVID test of proof of vaccination
- It’s mandatory to wear masks in Portugal when in crowds
- You can find all the restrictions and updates here www.visitportugal.com
Christmas markets in Lisbon are a great way to experience Christmas spirit and find Christmas gifts without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for traditional Portuguese Christmas decorations or international Christmas souvenirs, there is something for everyone at these events. If you want to maximize your time during this busy season of shopping, make sure to visit one of these amazing Markets in Lisbon!
Check my other post about where to see Christmas Decorations, Lights and Trees in Lisbon.
Pin this post
