Lisboa Iluminada – Christmas Lights

If you’re thinking of visiting Lisbon, but not sure whether it’s worth it during the Christmas period, what with the cold and all, hopefully this post will give you all a bit of encouragement. There are markets and stalls selling everything from the usual farturas (think churros, but stuffed with chocolate, cream or strawberry sauce), to wines, to ginjinha (pleasantly warming on a cold night!), to local craft beer. And lots more besides.

A couple of years ago, one of my first posts about living here was about the amazing Christmas light show that the local authorities put on in Terreiro do Paço. Well, they’re not doing that this year (as far as I know!) but it’s clear that they have been putting the revenue gained from the increased tourism here in Lisbon to good use, as there are some truly spectacular Christmas lights allover the downtown area of the city. Here are some to whet your appetite.