If you are planning a private trip to Portugal in December, here is what you can realistically expect. Daytime temperatures average 15°C (59°F) in Lisbon and 17°C (63°F) in the Algarve. Sunshine averages 5 hours per day, daylight stretches to about 9.5 hours, and the country generally feels quiet. Christmas markets, illuminated streets and warm Portuguese hospitality at its most personal.
FAQ
What festivals happen in Portugal in December?
Wonderland Lisboa; Madeira New Year fireworks; Festa de Santa Luzia (Lisbon). Many smaller villages also run their own local festas worth catching with a local driver.
Are restaurants and wineries open in December?
Yes. Most premium restaurants and signature wineries operate year-round, though some Algarve beach clubs run seasonal hours. A concierge or private driver can confirm specific opening days for the precise dates you have in mind.
Do I need a car or a driver in December?
Public transport works well inside Lisbon and Porto, but Portugal's most memorable moments are spread across the countryside. A private driver lets you visit a Douro quinta, an Alentejo wine estate or a hidden Algarve cove without losing half a day to logistics.