Portugal, Europe
Porto in December
Christmas lights on the Avenida dos Aliados and New Year's fireworks on the river. One of the wettest months.
The straight answer
December is a month of real tradeoffs in Porto. Christmas lights on the Avenida dos Aliados and New Year's fireworks on the river. One of the wettest months.
- Weather
- Cool and wet, highs near 58F (14C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What December is like in Porto
December is cool and one of the wettest months, with highs near 58F (14C). Christmas lights brighten the Avenida dos Aliados, and on December 31 fireworks light up the Douro while concerts fill the Aliados. Crowds are low for most of the month, and prices stay reasonable outside the New Year week.
It suits couples and families who want a festive, affordable city break, and anyone keen on a New Year's Eve by the river. Rain is likely, so plan indoor time. For dry weather and Douro trips, come back in May or September.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Porto this month.
Christmas lights on the Aliados
The grand avenue is lit up for the season. An evening walk from there down to the river is a nice way to end a day.
New Year's Eve on the Douro
Fireworks over the river and concerts on the Aliados bring the whole city out on December 31.
Winter food
Hearty local dishes and warm port make chilly evenings cozy.
What to pack for December
- A warm waterproof coat
- Waterproof shoes
- Hat and scarf for the riverside wind
- An umbrella
Our timing tip
For New Year's Eve, book your hotel early and find a riverside spot on the Gaia side for a clear view of the fireworks.
Book Porto for December.
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- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in PortoOpens a hotel search for Porto in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in PortoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in PortoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Porto for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in December
New Year's Eve on the Douro
December 31 every year
Fireworks over the river and concerts in the Avenida dos Aliados.
Things to do in Porto
Ribeira and the Dom Luis I Bridge
Walk the upper deck at sunset for the classic view, then eat along the waterfront or cross into Gaia.
Port lodges in Vila Nova de Gaia
Taylor's, Graham's, Sandeman, and others offer cellar tours and tastings. Book ahead in summer.
Livraria Lello
A famous neo-Gothic bookshop with a crimson staircase. Entry is ticketed and timed; the first slot beats the lines.
Torre dos Clerigos
The Baroque bell tower with a climb to one of the best views over the city.
Serralves Foundation
A contemporary art museum, an Art Deco villa, and large gardens west of the center.
Palacio da Bolsa
The 19th century stock exchange with its gilded Arab Room, visited by guided tour.
Beat the crowds
- Book Livraria Lello for the first time slot of the day. By late morning, the line wraps around the block in summer.
- Stay in Cedofeita, Bonfim, or Boavista rather than the Ribeira for quieter nights and more local restaurants.
- Visit the Douro Valley on a weekday and go by train or with a small tour to avoid the big coach groups.
- Walk the Ribeira and bridge early in the morning. Cruise and tour groups arrive later in the day.
Know before you go
- Porto's major sights, port lodges, and museums are open all year. Winter hours are sometimes shorter.
- Some Douro Valley quintas and river cruises reduce operations in winter; check before planning a winter valley trip.
- Many museums close on Mondays. Public holidays like June 24 (Sao Joao) close many businesses in the city.
- Some restaurants close on Sundays, especially family-run places outside the tourist core.
Porto in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Porto?
December is a month of real tradeoffs in Porto. Christmas lights on the Avenida dos Aliados and New Year's fireworks on the river. One of the wettest months.
What is the weather like in Porto in December?
Cool and wet, highs near 58F (14C).
Is Porto crowded in December?
December is one of the quieter months in Porto; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Porto in December?
New Year's Eve on the Douro (december 31 every year).
Keep planning Porto.
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