Lagos in December: Why Lagos, Portugal is the Best European Winter Destination
Thinking about visiting Lagos, Portugal in December?
I know how you feel! Finding the best places to visit in Europe in December can be tricky, especially if you’re looking for specific weather patterns (not that those are exactly predictable), things to do, or are trying to stick to a certain budget.
Lucky for you, Lagos is easily one of the best European winter vacation destinations and I’m here to tell you why.
In this post, you’ll learn all about the weather patterns you can expect, activities you can do, and even where to stay, some amazing tours that are available, and more!
Visiting Lagos in December is absolutely worthwhile and I hope this article helps you prepare for your winter trip to Portugal.
Should I Visit Lagos in December?
Yes! You should absolutely be considering the idea of visiting Lagos in December. Ignoring the fact that the weather won’t be as warm as in the summer months (obviously), there is still SO much you can do and enjoy in the region.
Plus, in the winter months, it will be 1000x easier to score a fantastic deal on flights, hotels (I’ve provided you with the best hotels to stay at in Lagos in December below!), tours, car rentals, and even food!
Not to mention the beaches and towns won’t be crowded so you’ll actually be able to snap some insanely beautiful photos without crowds of tourists in them. And yes, you will still be able to enjoy the Lagos beaches in December! But, we’ll get more into the weather in the next section.
Lagos in December Weather
The month of December does have the largest number of days, on average, with rainfall. But, just like many southern European destinations, these rainstorms tend to be brief and on the lighter side.
Mild temperatures and partial clouds are the most prominent of days you are likely to experience during this timeframe in Portugal.
Temperatures in Lagos, Portugal in December typically range between 50-61 degrees Fahrenheit (10-16 degrees Celsius). This means you’ll be quite comfortable throughout the day (no need for a winter jacket) and will be free to explore the beaches and the towns with ease.
What to Pack for Lagos in December
Okay, now that you know what you can expect the weather to be like in Lagos in winter, let’s jump into what you should be packing.
Rain jacket. Rain boots. And lots and lots of layers. Nothing more, nothing less.
You’ll still want to be sure to remember that cool new bathing suit you bought since rogue days of increasingly hot weather have been known to occur. Plus, a bunch of the hotels I have recommended below have pools and hot tubs!
Also, now that you know that it is likely going to rain for at least one day of your Portugal itinerary, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared with a rain jacket and waterproof (or at the very least water resistant) boots.
Pack on the layers because it could be sunny and 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the day while you’re picking up seashells on the beach, then it could drop an astounding 10 degrees in a mere hour while you’re eating tapas by the beach at an outdoor restaurant.
Always, always, always, keep some layers in a small daypack (this one is my favorite and goes with me everywhere) while you’re out exploring. The sun can go in any minute, and when it does, you’ll be wishing you had some layers to keep you warm before you return to your hotel.
Here is a quick rundown on what you should be packing for your trip to Lagos in December:
We also have this complete packing list for Portugal if you want a more detailed list.
Of course, what you decide to pack will depend on your travel style to some degree. If you aren’t sure what you’re travel style, take my free quiz below!
Where to Stay in Lagos in December
Whoo! If you’ve gotten this far, it’s probably because you’re considering visiting Lagos in December which truly excites me. Not many people choose to visit, and it’s such a shame cause they’re missing out on one of the most beautiful regions in Europe come wintertime.
If you’re looking to visit Lagos, Portugal this winter, here are some of the best hotels and accommodations you can stay at.
Some of them even have hot tubs (incredible during those chilly nights!), so take a peek and start thinking about what you’d be looking for out of your stay.
Hotels in Lagos with a Swimming Pool
Lagos Avenida Hotel
This contemporary 4-star hotel offers guests a variety of amenities and services, including an outdoor pool that overlooks the beautiful Faro marina and Atlantic Ocean.
Just 10 minutes from Meia Praia Beach Lagos, the Lagos Avenida Hotel is the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour front desk service, room service, as well as an amazing breakfast each morning.
Lagos Atlantic Hotel
Located near some of the most gorgeous beaches Portugal has to offer, Lagos is a stunning destination that should be visited at least once in your lifetime. If you’re looking for comfortable accommodations while adventuring around Lagos, look no further than the 4-star Lagos Atlantic Hotel.
Not only does this hotel provide proximity to pristine beaches, but amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, full bar, and garden are also available on site. Looking to explore beyond the hotel grounds? Take advantage of bike or car rental from the front desk!
You’ll never go hungry here either with options like continental or buffet-style breakfasts offered daily. And if you need anything else during your stay, the room service has wonderful reviews!
Beachfront Hotels in Lagos, Portugal
Palmares Beach House Hotel – Adults Only
If you’re looking for a relaxing and romantic getaway in Lagos, Portugal, the Palmares Beach House Hotel is a perfect choice. This adults-only hotel is located close to Meia Praia Beach and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
On-site amenities include a restaurant, bar, and pool, and all rooms have a private balcony or terrace with beautiful ocean views. Plus, breakfast is included daily and this beachfront hotel in Lagos has everything you’ll need during your visit right on-site.
If you’re looking for one of the most luxurious places to stay in Lagos in December, look no further than the Palmares Beach House Hotel!
Hotel Vila Galé Lagos
The Vila Gale Lagos Hotel is a 4-star beachfront luxury resort located on the beautiful Meia Praia Beach. The hotel offers guests a range of amenities, including its very own Satsanga Spa complete with a gym, sauna, massage room, and even a steam bath!
Spend some time at the indoor swimming pool or the massive outdoor swimming pool surrounded by an incredible 12,000+ square foot garden. Top-notch cuisine at the restaurant is sure to please all palates, while the Kids’ Club will keep the little ones entertained for hours on end.
There are also 3 tennis courts onsite for those who love to stay active during their holidays. And finally, no holiday would be complete without breakfast – luckily, the Vila Gale Lagos Hotel offers an amazing morning setup!
Luxury Hotels in Lagos, Portugal
Boavista Golf & Spa – Bela Colina Village
The 5-star Boavista Golf & Spa Hotel overlooks its own private 18-hole golf course (lessons available at an extra charge), with luxury villas and apartments providing exceptional views of Lagos Bay and the resort’s lovely garden.
All accommodations come complete with a furnished balcony and kitchen, while the onsite spa features include a hot tub, sauna, steam room, and fitness center.
The hotel also offers an on-site car rental service and offers free parking for guests, and a delicious breakfast is served daily in the restaurant. If it’s a luxury hotel in Lagos, Portugal that you’re searching for, then this is the only hotel you should be considering!
Getting Around Lagos in December
Wondering if Lagos will still have public transportation in December? You’re in luck! The Algarve region of Portugal has public transportation year-round that’s very affordable.
You can find very affordable buses and shuttles that take you all over southern Portugal including to and from Tavira, Lagos, or Faro, but the downside is that they are going to take you far longer to get around than if you were to rent your own car.
For example, taking the bus from Lagos to Faro usually takes between an hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. But, that same distance will only take you less than 1 hour by car.
So, if you’re trying to get the most out of your vacation time, getting a rental car is the best option for getting around Lagos in December.
Especially in December when the bus and shuttle routes may be more limited, you’ll want to be careful not to waste your precious vacation time on a bus…
Plus, a one-week rental from the Faro Airport in Portugal in December (I used December 7th-14th to get this quote) costs as low as $63 for a mini. For a standard-size economy vehicle, the price only increased to $71 for the entire week.
Considering the buses and shuttles are going to cost you a few euros each way and a single journey shuttle from the Faro Airport to Lagos costs upward of $90 or more (you can get price quotes on Hoppa)… well, you do the math.
Renting a car in Lagos is by far the most cost and time-efficient method of transportation!
Best Winter Tours in Lagos in December
If you do decide to visit Lagos in December, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best tours in the Algarve… nearly free of other tourists!
This is by far one of the biggest reasons to consider Lagos as a winter European vacation destination.
With most tourists leaving by the end of September and incoming tourists sticking around the big cities of Lisbon and Porto, most of these tours will become “small-group tours”, instead of the typically 20+ people they normally have.
Check out these amazing tours for your December trip to Lagos:
Kayak Adventure – Inside the Ponta da Piedade Caves
Ever wanted to explore the inside of the Ponta da Piedade Caves and Grotto? Well, the best way to do that is by kayak!
This exceptional tour has been awarded the Badge of Excellence by Viator and includes roundtrip transportation by catamaran. If you’ve been looking for a great spot to go kayaking in the Algarve, this is it!
If you want more kayaking tours to choose from, check out these 9 BEST Lagos Kayak Tours to Experience in 2024!
Sunset Sagres & Jeep Off-Roading in Algarve Natural Park
Jeep tours are one of the best, temperature-controlled, methods of seeing the Algarve region! This 4-hour tour does an exceptional job bringing its guests to off-the-beaten-path locations to watch an incredible Portuguese sunset.
They also include hotel pick-up and drop-off between Lagos and Sagres, so you can rest assured you’ll be well taken care of!
Dolphin-Watching in Marina de Lagos
Ever wanted to see dolphins up close and personal without seeing them behind glass in a zoo or aquarium? Well, now is your chance! This is one of the best tours for spotting dolphins in their natural habitat with a 95% success rate!
Plus, with a view like the Algarve coastline, this is sure to be one of the most beautiful experiences of your life.
FAQ
Is December a Good Time to Go to Portugal?
Contrary to popular belief, December happens to be one of the best months to visit Portugal whether you want to spend Christmas in Lagos or New Years in Porto!
It doesn’t matter whether you plan on joining one of the 9 top-rated wine tours from Porto or you want to scope out the best beaches in Cascais, there is something for everyone at this festive time of the year in this culturally vibrant nation!
Public transportation is still running (though you may find some routes are more limited), the costs of accommodations and flights have dropped immensely, and tourist crowds are spread thin.
Want to stay at a fancy hotel in Lisbon with a rooftop pool that you normally wouldn’t be able to afford? Well, then you better consider visiting in Portugal in winter!
Between the festive Christmas markets and the mild temperatures for those fair weather vacationers, Portugal truly has it all.
Is Lagos Worth Visiting in December?
Most tourists are familiar with the Algarve region due to its stunning beaches and breathtaking natural rock formations that make up the southern Portuguese coastlines.
But, what if you aren’t up for swimming in chilly waters or were hoping for hot and sunny temperatures?
Well, then perhaps you may want to consider the Caribbean for your winter vacation. But, in my opinion, Algarve is 100% worth visiting in December!
Going back to what I mentioned before, you’re going to find amazing travel deals, experience some of Portugal’s most beautiful sights without the swarms of tourists, and you’ll actually get the opportunity to connect with the locals.
Many tour operators are still running and you’ll be able to snag an insanely beautiful table overlooking the beach to enjoy your wine and tapas. Sure, you may need a sweater while you eat, but that doesn’t take away from the experience, in my opinion. In fact, I truly believe it adds to it!
Experiencing Algarve, Portugal in the off-season is well worth the hype and it should be a strong consideration of yours if you are currently planning a winter vacation.
Is Faro Worth Visiting in December?
If you’re looking to add a bit of color to your winter vacation in Portugal, then Faro is absolutely worth visiting in December.
Known for its stunning, colorful architecture and white-washed neighborhoods, Faro has so much to offer its visitors, even in the winter months! Being a major city, you will want to know these specific Algarve safety tips, but nonetheless, it is amazing.
The weather is also quite mild and comfortable, so it makes for a fantastic time to enjoy outdoor activities for those who don’t enjoy hours on end of beating sunshine and high heat (hello, my fellow autumn lovers!)
Don’t get me wrong, Faro, Portugal in the summer is absolutely gorgeous, but the heat can be a lot for those who aren’t used to it. So, if you are hoping for weather that you can do practically anything in, well, then Lagos in December should be your next trip!
What is There To Do in Faro in December?
You could spend a day exploring the Igreja de Santa Maria, the Ria Formosa Nature Park, or even take a ferry to one of the beautiful islands off the southern coast of Portugal!
There are endless activities to enjoy in Faro in December that shouldn’t be missed. For history enthusiasts, take a trip to the Roman Ruins of Milreu or the Municipal Museum of Faro.
For the beach bums, stroll the Ilha do Farol, Barrinha Beach, or Praia da Barreta in search of seaglass and unique seashells while you snap some fun photos of the windsurfers!
And if you enjoy shopping, make your way through the Jardim Manuel Bivar and the Faro Municipal Market to pick up some beautiful, local produce to use for dinner.
Faro, Portugal is a lively region year-round and there is always something going on here. It doesn’t matter if you visit in July or December, you are bound to find something you enjoy!
Is Lagos Open in Winter?
While there are a few business owners who decide to close their doors once the summer sun starts to cool down just a tad, there are a dozen to one other business owners keeping their doors open!
Lagos is open in winter as well as the rest of the year, so don’t let that keep you from coming in December.
From the shores of Lagos, through Portimão, and all the way to Faro you’ll find plenty of restaurants, bars, and unique shops with their doors still open through the winter months.
Since many Americans and northern Europeans choose to vacation in the south of Portugal come the wintertime, many locals keep their doors open to cater to the tourists that do decide to visit.
While you’re out shopping in Lagos’ beautiful Old Town, you’ll also be able to score some incredible deals on souvenirs from Portugal since it’s one of the best times of the year to take a minute to chat with the locals about what they may recommend buying.
Most of the year, there are too many tourists to ever get a word in with a local, so December is extra special since many of the shop owners will have far more time to help you pick something special out!
Can I Swim in Lagos Portugal in December?
Of course you can swim in Lagos in December! That’s not to say the ocean temperatures won’t be on the cooler side (around 63 degrees Fahrenheit or 17 degrees Celsius), but it’s not uncommon to spot brave seafarers bracing the waves from the sea’s edge.
Surfing, swimming, parasailing, boating, and fishing are all popular water activities to do in Lagos, Portugal in December.
If you plan on taking a dive, however, you might want to consider renting a wet suit from one of the water sports equipment rental shops in town. Especially if you plan on being in the water for over 10-15 minutes, this could save your skin (literally).
Visiting Lagos in December is unlike any other experience you can have in Europe. A unique opportunity awaits where you can connect with the locals and truly escape from the crowds chaotically swarming the Christmas markets found throughout the other popular countries in Europe.
If you do decide to visit Portugal this December, be sure to include Lagos as it may just be your favorite spot you visit during your travels!
