Europe · December
Best time to visit Portugal in December 🇵🇹
December in Portugal is off-season — extreme weather or closures. generally a tough month — extreme heat, monsoon, deep cold or widespread closures. Plan carefully or pick another country.
Last updated June 2026
Is December a good time to visit Portugal? Quick answer
Not ideal — consider another month or country.
| Verdict for December | Off-season — extreme weather or closures |
| Average temperature | 15°C high / 8°C low |
| Rainy days | ~12 days |
| Crowds | med |
| Prices | high |
| Events this month | Christmas (Madeira famous), NYE Funchal |
| Peak months overall | April, May, June, July, September, October |
| Insider tip | Algarve resorts get fully booked in August — go in June or September instead. |
Portugal year at a glance
The absolute peak months for Portugal are April, May, June, July, September, October. December isn't one of them — consider shifting your dates or seeing alternatives below.
What Portugal is like in December
Mild for a European December; Madeira NYE fireworks legendary. Mar–Jun & Sep–Oct best for cities. Algarve beaches Jun–Sep. Madeira and Azores are mild year-round.
Insider tip
Algarve resorts get fully booked in August — go in June or September instead.
Where to go in December instead
Thailand in December
A tale of two coasts and three seasons.
Philippines in December
7,000 islands, one dry season.
Cambodia in December
Cool & dry for Angkor.
Laos in December
Mekong country, cool dry winters.
UAE in December
Desert winters are magical; summers brutal.
Switzerland in December
Two seasons, both spectacular.
FAQs: Portugal in December
Is December a good time to visit Portugal?
Not really — most travellers should shift dates or pick another country. December in Portugal is off-season — extreme weather or closures. Expect average highs around 15°C and lows near 8°C, with roughly 12 rainy days.
What is the weather like in Portugal in December?
Average daily high around 15°C, low around 8°C, with about 12 rainy days. Mild for a European December; Madeira NYE fireworks legendary.
What events or festivals happen in Portugal in December?
Key events in December include Christmas (Madeira famous), NYE Funchal.
Are flights and hotels cheaper in Portugal in December?
Prices in December are typically high — book early, with moderate crowds.
Should I book Portugal in advance for December?
You can usually book closer to your travel dates in December — supply is plenty and prices stay reasonable.