What to Expect When Visiting Lisbon in January

Short Summary of What Lisbon is like in January

Regarding weather, visiting Lisbon in January can be a bit of a mixed bag. Some days may be sunny and mild, while others can bring cold, rainy weather.

In 2024, I experienced more rain than sunshine, but it’s been a balance of both in previous years. Either way, Lisbon’s winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers and be ready for anything.

One of the biggest advantages of coming to Portugal in winter is exploring the main attractions without the typical crowds. 

This is especially true for popular spots like Sintra, where you can enjoy its stunning palaces and gardens with far fewer tourists. (More on that later!)

It is also a time to stay at that fabulous boutique hotel for a fraction of the price it would cost during summer. 

This holds especially true in a town like Cascais, where I only paid €150 euros a night to stay at the Grande Real Villa Italia. This five-star hotel charges around €630 per night in August. 

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Everything You Can Expect Visiting Lisbon, Portugal in January

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Weather in Lisbon in January: Mild Winter Weather & Occasional Rain

In January, Lisbon experiences a relatively mild winter compared to many European cities. Average daytime temperatures hover between 10°C and 15°C (50°F to 59°F), though occasional sunny days can feel warmer. Evenings tend to be cooler, so it’s a good idea to have a warm jacket on hand.

Rain is common in January, with an average of 10 to 15 rainy days throughout the month. Showers can be sudden, but they’re usually brief. Despite the chance of rain, you’ll still find plenty of clear or partly sunny days to explore.

Compared to Lisbon’s warmer months, winter is obviously chillier and wetter, but it’s far from frigid. While summer brings highs around 30°C (86°F) and near-constant sun, January’s milder weather offers a quieter, more relaxed way to enjoy the city.

PRO TIP: Lisbon streets are slippery as hell when it is raining; be extra careful!

Weather in Lisbon in the Winter Months

• November: Mild, with occasional rain; temperatures around 12–18°C (54–64°F).
• December: Cooler and wetter, averaging 10–15°C (50–59°F).
• January: Coldest month, often rainy; temps between 8–15°C (46–59°F).
• February: Slightly warmer, still some rain; averages 9–16°C (48–61°F).
• March: Warmer and drier as spring approaches; 10–18°C (50–64°F)

Fewer Tourists, Quieter Streets (kinda)

I’ll be honest, I was expecting the city to be empty, and it was not. There was a noticeable drop in the crowds, but it was far from empty. 

That means you should still plan ahead if you want to eat at some of Lisbon’s most famous restaurants.

You may not need to get a reservation as far in advance, but you will likely still need one to visit restaurants like Prado and Rocco.

If the weather is less than ideal, you will experience a more reasonable wait to visit places like Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, but I have yet to see the empty places. 

Excellent Off-Season Prices

One of the best reasons to consider visiting Lisbon in January is to take advantage of the lower hotel prices. 

While you may not get to use some of the amenities like a rooftop pool, you will be able to experience the comforts of a centrally located fancy hotel. 

One of my favorite hotels, The Bairro Alto Hotel, offers much more reasonably priced rooms in the winter you want to take advantage of!

This hotel has a rooftop deck overlooking the Tagus River that is open year-round. The perfect place to watch the sunset. 

Is Lisbon a Good Place to Visit for New Year’s Eve?

New Year’s Eve in Lisbon is a fantastic place to ring in the New Year. One of the main highlights is the fireworks display at Praça do Comércio, where locals and visitors gather to watch the sky light up over the river.

Live music, food vendors, and street parties will last well into the early hours.

For the best experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, as the square fills up quickly. If you prefer something a bit more intimate, many restaurants and bars host NYE parties with set menus, drinks, and live entertainment.

Rooftop bars are also popular, offering a unique view of the fireworks from above; check out Java Rooftop.

Remember that hotel prices tend to spike around New Year’s Eve, so if you’re planning a holiday stay that includes December 31, it’s wise to book early.

Outside of this peak holiday, January hotel rates return to more budget-friendly levels, making it a great time to explore Lisbon at a lower cost.

And if you like Christmas Markets, there will still be a few that are open that first week of January.

Top Things to Do in January in Lisbon

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Explore the Alfama Neighborhood

In January, exploring Alfama and ascending those hills is easier because the weather will be milder. 

There should also be a much shorter line to get into the Castelo de São Jorge. It is a must-visit if you are a history lover. 

But if I am honest, you are missing out if you don’t have the time to get inside. It is a great place to get views of the city, but there are also other views in the Alfama neighborhood like:

Miradouro de Santa Luzia: You might recognize these tiled walls and lush bougainvillea, seen from many Instagram posts about Lisbon. This spot offers breathtaking views over Alfama and the river. It’s gorgeous at sunset.

Miradouro das Portas do Sol: Just a short walk away, this viewpoint (seen below) has views of Alfama’s rooftops and the iconic São Vicente de Fora monastery. It’s one of my favorites, thanks to its wide-angle views and morning light.

Also located in the Alfama district, the Lisbon Cathedral (Sé de Lisboa) is a must-visit. For a €5 entry fee, you can explore the upper levels, including the High Choir and the Museum of the Treasury.

Dinner & A Fado Show

A great way to spend a winter evening in Lisbon is to watch a Fado show while enjoying a 3-course meal. 

I can highly recommend Fado ao Carmo! It is very well located in the center of Chiado and has excellent food. 

The price is very reasonable at €58 per person which includes the food and show. (alcohol not included).

Eat Portuguese Comfort Food Dishes

If you’re visiting Lisbon in winter, cozying up with some Portuguese comfort food is a must. Here are three perfect spots where you can dig into those warming, local dishes.

1. A Taberna da Rua das Flores – Tucked away in Chiado, this little tavern serves up Portuguese classics like caldo verde (that comforting kale and potato soup) in a cozy, no-fuss atmosphere.
2. Cervejaria Ramiro – Known for its seafood, Ramiro is an absolute staple. While you’re here, try a Portuguese stew like feijoada for something rich and hearty.
3. Adega Machado – A great place in Bairro Alto to enjoy a plate of bacalhau à brás (the ultimate salt cod comfort dish). It’s the perfect combo for a winter night in Lisbon!

Ride the 28 Tram 

Take advantage of the fact that fewer people will be waiting to ride tram 28 through the most iconic neighborhoods in Lisbon. 

But please remember that locals use this line as their everyday transportation. It is not simply a tourist attraction. 

For the best experience, hop on early morning to avoid crowds, especially at the Martim Moniz starting point. 

PRO TIP: You will need cash if you don’t already have a ticket. The trams do not take credit cards. 

Visit the Belém Tower & Jerónimos Monastery

January is an ideal time to check out Lisbon’s famous Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery—two of the city’s most iconic UNESCO sites. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy these spots without the usual crowds and endless lines.

The Belém Tower is a fortress right on the riverbank, originally built to guard the city. It’s got those classic Manueline-style details and a great view of the water. In January, you’ll actually have space to take it all in without a ton of people in your photos.

Just a short walk away is the Jerónimos Monastery, another must-see. This place is a masterpiece of Portuguese architecture, and trust me, wandering through its cloisters without the usual tourist rush makes the experience even more magical. 

Plus, after you’re done, you’re right by Pastéis de Belém—the original home of Portugal’s famous custard tarts. Fewer people in January means a shorter line here, too, so you can grab a couple of warm pastéis and keep exploring!

Things to Do in Lisbon if it’s Raining

Winter Day Trips From Lisbon

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Visit Sintra

One of the best things to do in Lisbon in January is to leave the city and go to Sintra! But please keep your expectations in check as Sintra won’t be empty in the winter; it will be slightly less crowded. 

Instead of needing to plan your visit a month in advance, you can get away with a few days in advance. But be warned, tickets will sell out, so don’t get lazy. 

You can also score a great deal on accommodation in Sintra in the winter. I stayed at the Lawerence Hotel, an idyllic property in the center of Sintra for €150 a night, which would be €300+ in peak season. 

Do not forget your layers and winter gear for visiting Sintra in January. Even if the weather is dry, sunny, and warm in Lisbon, it could be a totally different experience in Sintra. 

Visit Cascais

Choosing between Sintra and Cascais can be difficult in the summer, but if you’re in Lisbon in the winter and the weather isn’t great, you could skip Cascais.

However, if the weather is dry and sunny, I’d definitely recommend heading to this coastal town for the afternoon. Visiting Cascais from Lisbon is a really easy day trip to make.

You can check out my full-day trip guide from Lisbon, which fully recaps how to spend the day in Cascais.

January Packing Guide for Lisbon

• 1. Warm Layers
• 2. Waterproof Jacket or Umbrella
• 3. Comfortable Walking Shoes
• 4. Scarf, Hat, and Gloves
• 5. Travel Adapter
• 6. Daypack for Day Trips
• 7. Evening Attire for Fado or NYE Events

Conclusion: Why You Should Visit Lisbon in January

In my humble opinion, as someone who lives in Lisbon, I think it can be a great month to experience the city. 

Cities are typically better destinations in the off-season months; I find this true of places like Athens as well. 

You will have fewer crowds to compete with and more comfortable weather to see all the sights. Leave the summer months to explore places in the Algarve.