7 Suggestions for What to do during Christmas and New Years in Porto?

Visiting Porto during Christmas can be a charming and unique experience. The festive atmosphere during this time of the year r is unparalleled. Porto is already spectacular, but Christmas gives the city a different and magical ambiance.

1) Visit plenty of Christmas Markets:

Explore the Christmas markets throughout the city, from Batalha Square to the street leading from the Cathedral to São Bento Station. The Crystal Palace Gardens hosts also a Christmas Market from December 1 to 18th. Enjoy the Christmas market in the Cordoaria garden, where the carousel is located. Also, cross to Vila Nova de Gaia to experience the Christmas market at WOW, where you can delight in mulled wine while enjoying unparalleled views of Porto. Christmas markets are great fun with local products, warm wine, creppes and christmas decorations, and even attractions in some of them.

2) Enjoy Christmas Decorations on a Night Free Tour:

Stroll through the streets of the city center to enjoy the stunning Christmas decorations and lights. Join the Porto Free Tour starting at 2:30 pm every day from Largo Amor de Perdição Square. You can also enjoy Christmas decorations along the river with the Old Town and Ribeira Tour starting at 3 pm. The beauty of it is that you'll start the tour during the day and finish it at night, witnessing the fantastic city decorations. What a better plan? You can book those tours clicking here.

Christmas Tree in Aliados Avenue, Porto.

3) Ice Skating in Porto city centre (Largo Amor de Perdição Square):

Since 2019 Porto hasn't enjoyed an ice skating rink! But is back this year!

What's more Christmassy than ice skating? They have set up an ice rink in the square where the Free Tours start from December 1. 

4) Christmas Circus at Coliseu Porto:

The Circus is coming to town like every year during Christmas Season! This show will be available from December 10th to January 2nd. It is a circus with various acrobatics, magic shows, and clowns. This is a fantastic family activity!

5) Seasonal Gastronomy:

Indulge in a festive meal, such as "Bacalhau à Consoada" or roasted turkey. You can try Christmas sweet delights like "Bolo de Rei" or "Sonhos" (small balls of fried dough, sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon). 

6) Attend a Christmas Concert in one of Porto's many churches:

During the festive season, many churches have orchestras performing concerts. It can be a special experience.

7) New Year's Eve Toast at Liberty Square and Street Party:

If you're spending New Year's Eve in the city, don't miss the toast at Liberty Square and the street party that day. In addition to the massive fireworks display that night at 00:00.

Bonus Tip: Perlim Park! This Christmas theme park is not exactly in Porto. It can be reached by car and is about half an hour away. But if you are a Christmas fan or want a great plan with children, it is highly advisable to visit this Christmas theme park. It is located in Santa Maria da Feira and is the largest Christmas theme park in the country. 

We hope all these suggestions help you fully enjoy this wonderful city during the festive season.