Discover the top 10 activities to enjoy in Lisbon this January, ensuring a memorable experience in Portugal's vibrant capital. Read more to plan your trip!
If you’re wondering what to do in Lisbon in January, the answer is: more than you think. Visiting Lisbon in winter means mild weather, fewer tourists, and a calmer version of the Portuguese capital that everyone gets to enjoy. The city slows down just enough for you to breathe—without ever feeling boring. Rooftops are still open, pastel de nata still warm, and cafés still buzzing with laptops and good WiFi. It’s the sweet spot between holidays and spring crowds, perfect for work and wandering. Plus, January is a great time for easy day trips—think misty castles, empty beaches, and no lines anywhere. So yes, pack a jacket. But leave space for surprises. Lisbon in January? We’re into it.
If it’s your first trip to Lisbon, January might surprise you. While it’s the coldest month of the year, Lisbon still manages to stay relatively mild. Daytime temperatures usually hover between 8°C and 15°C, which is downright dreamy compared to other European cities. It’s the kind of good weather that lets you take long walks without overheating—or freezing. You’ll need warm clothes, but snow boots? Leave them behind.
Yes, Lisbon in January comes with some rainy weather—around 13 wet days, according to historical averages. But Lisbon is also typically sunny, with 5 to 6 hours of sunshine on most days. That means you'll likely start your morning under a grey sky and end the day with golden light bouncing off the city’s tiled façades. It’s all part of Lisbon’s charm: a little moody, a lot magical.
One of the best perks of visiting Lisbon in the low season is simple: fewer tourists. That means quieter viewpoints, shorter lines, and a better chance of finding a seat at that café you’ve been stalking on Instagram. January lets you explore Lisbon the way locals do—calm, unhurried, and blissfully crowd-free.
This is ideal weather for mixing work and wandering. Settle into a coworking spot, sip coffee between calls, then stretch your legs with a walk through Alfama district. And when the drizzle hits? Use it as your excuse to indulge in a hot espresso and a couple of pastéis de nata. Honestly, this season was made for guilt-free focus.
Lisbon may be a coastal town, but in January, it trades beach towels for moody miradouros and cozy wine bars. It's the best of both worlds: the energy of a capital city, with the laid-back rhythm of winter by the sea. And for nomads who value balance, that’s a great advantage.
So you're in Lisbon in January. Good call. The winter months here still come with street music, local traditions, and enough things going on to make your trip feel anything but slow. Here's what's happening and how to make the most of it (without ending up in long queues).
Let’s start big. If you're in the city for New Year’s Eve, head straight to Praça do Comércio. It’s where thousands gather to dance, drink, and watch fireworks explode over the river. Music kicks off around 10PM and keeps going into the early hours. Best part? It's free. Just show up and soak it in.
Pro tip: Book your hotel nearby if you want to avoid a long walk—or worse, a long wait—for transport after midnight.
This one’s all about food and tradition. On January 6th, Portugal celebrates the end of the holidays with Bolo Rei (King Cake) and parades around the city. Head to Rossio Square or nearby bakeries to grab a slice.
If someone hands you a piece with a tiny fava bean inside—congrats, you’re buying the next cake.
Even in January, Lisbon stays loud—in the best way. There are Fado nights (soulful Portuguese music that feels made for winter), jazz clubs, and cozy concert venues where you can escape the chill.
Here’s a quick list of places worth visiting:
Fado in Chiado – short, powerful, and walkable from anywhere central.
Hot Clube de Portugal – Lisbon’s oldest jazz club, open late.
Tasca do Chico – tiny, crowded, authentic. Expect music and wine.
Think everyone’s hiding indoors? Nope. Lisbon’s digital nomad community is still moving. January has fewer crowds but just as many Slackers-in-the-wild.
Join a coworking day, happy hour, or casual event hosted by Lisbon Digital Nomads (search on Meetup or Facebook).
You’ll meet people who also travel with warm clothes and external monitors.
In short: Lisbon in January isn’t sleepy—it’s just slower in the right ways. The Portuguese capital still delivers on culture, food, music, and new connections. It’s one of the best times to enjoy the city without the chaos that makes popular destinations a little too much.
If Lisbon in January hands you mild temperatures and quiet streets, you take it. This is the time to lean into Lisbon’s art, history, and that slightly nerdy joy of wandering museums without elbowing through crowds. Most of these spots are open year round, walking distance from key areas, and honestly? Totally worth it—even if you’re just in it for the photos.
Start here if you’re into color, patterns, or tile envy. This museum celebrates Portugal’s iconic ceramic tiles—azulejos—in a way that makes you stare at walls like they’re masterpieces (because they are). It’s housed in a 16th-century convent, and the café has a cute little rooftop terrace that’s usually empty in winter.
A short walk or quick cab from the Alfama neighborhood.
Entry has an extra cost, but it’s under €10. Worth every cent. You can purchase tickets through their website.
Bring your camera. These are not just wall tiles, they’re screen-saver-level breathtaking views.
Art lovers, this one’s for you. MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology) sits right by the Tagus River in Belém. The building alone is a sculptural dream—and yes, there’s an observation deck with river views. While you’re there, pair it with the Jerónimos Monastery and Belem Tower. All three in one afternoon = chef’s kiss.
Then head to the Gulbenkian Museum. It’s in a leafy part of town and feels more “hidden gem” than tourist magnet. From Persian carpets to Rembrandt paintings, this place is classy without trying too hard.
Pro tip: Both museums are great for working breaks. Sit, wander, recharge. Skip the email for an hour.
Yes, it’s touristy. But Lisbon in January means fewer tourists—and that’s your cue. The climb up through the hills and winding streets of Alfama neighborhood is half the fun. Once you’re up top, the breathtaking views over the city and Tagus River are unbeatable. Even if you’ve seen Lisbon from every angle, this one still hits.
Open late, so you can catch sunset and stick around into the night.
Great for photos. Your phone will ask if it’s in Europe mode.
Think of an abandoned factory turned creative hub. Add bookstores, record shops, co-working cafés, and indie restaurants, and you've got LX Factory. It’s located under the 25 de Abril Bridge, and gives off serious Brooklyn-meets-Lisbon vibes.
It’s also walking distance from Belém, so if you’re out by the Belem Tower or Jerónimos Monastery, take a detour. Grab lunch or a coffee, browse the shops, and get some work done in a spot that feels more studio than tourist trap.
Nomad tip: The rooftop bar at Rio Maravilha is low-key one of the best views in the city.
If you're staying in a central hotel, most of these places are a short walk or a quick tram away. This is the side of Lisbon that’s just as impressive as the famous hills and pastel buildings—only quieter, warmer, and better for actually soaking things in.
Let’s be real—food is half the reason most people fall in love with Lisbon. And in January, when the streets are cool and your hands are cold, comfort food hits differently. Think stews, pastries fresh from the oven, and cozy spots that don’t make you wait an hour for a table. Here’s where to eat when you’re hungry, tired, and need more than just a decent espresso.
Caldo Verde (kale and potato soup) is the unofficial hug-in-a-bowl of Portugal. Pair it with Bacalhau à Brás (shredded cod with potato and egg) and you’ve got yourself a winter win. These dishes are simple, honest, and greatly appreciated by locals—especially during the colder months.
Where to try them:
O Velho Eurico (Alfama): Affordable, loud, and absolutely delicious.
Adega da Mó (Baixa): All you can eat, classic neighborhood vibe, no tourist fluff.
Expect to pay €10–15 for a meal.
Yes, you can get a pastel de nata anywhere—but not all of them are life-changing. In Lisbon, the best ones are warm, flaky, and slightly caramelized on top. Pair with an espresso. Repeat.
Favorite spots:
Manteigaria: Better than Belém, no lie.
Pastéis de Belém: A destination on its own. Touristy, yes. Worth it, also yes.
Café Janis: Stylish brunch with solid pastéis and nomad-friendly tables.
Nomad tip: Manteigaria stays open late. Perfect post-Santa Justa Lift snack.
This is the best part about Lisbon in winter: tables are available. The food hasn’t changed, the restaurants are still buzzing, but you don’t have to queue behind 27 people with suitcases.
Perfect places for lunch, dinner or laptop breaks:
Taberna da Rua das Flores (Chiado): Seasonal dishes, handwritten menu, no reservations—go early.
Time Out Market (Cais do Sodré): Tourist trap? We don't think so. Tasty? Without a doubt.
Prado (near Sé): New Portuguese cuisine, sleek space, not cheap—but worth a splurge.
A Cevicheria (Principe Real): Peruvian twist on portuguese ingredients, small but big on flavor.
Bonus: Some spots have spectacular views over the city. Check out Lost In in Bairro Alto for sunset vibes and a chill atmosphere. Also a great place to reflect on your trip with a glass of wine and questionable decisions.
If your hotel has breakfast included, cool. But don’t miss the chance to visit a local bakery in the morning. Grab a pastel de nata, hit a nearby miradouro, and call it a win before logging in.
In a city full of tiled walls and steep streets, a warm meal can be your best reset. Whether you're exploring the main attractions or just trying to recover from one too many Zoom calls, Lisbon's food scene is there to catch you. And in January, you won’t need a reservation to find your favorite spots.
Let’s talk money. Lisbon isn’t the cheapest spot in Europe, but come January? It gets pretty close. Flights drop, hotel prices mellow out, and you’ll finally be able to walk through the streets without tripping over someone’s rolling suitcase. Here’s how to make your trip work for your wallet—without cutting corners.
January is deep in Portugal’s off-season, which means airlines and hotels are basically begging you to come. Roundtrip flights from most European cities can dip under €100 if you plan ahead. And a stylish, centrally located hotel that costs €180 per night in summer? You’ll likely snag it for half that.
Check the areas around Cais do Sodré, Príncipe Real, and Alfama—close to coworking spots, good restaurants, and very walkable.
You won’t need a car in Lisbon. The metro, trams, and buses are all efficient, clean, and—shocker—not packed in winter. That charming yellow tram? Still running. Just without the selfie mobs.
Pro tip: Get a Viva Viagem card at the airport or any metro station. It costs €0.50 and loads up with zapping credit for rides that are way cheaper than paying cash.
Sure, some attractions have an extra cost—like museums or tours—but prices are generally low. And because there’s less demand, you’ll often find winter deals on things like:
Coworking day passes
Walking tours
Museum entries
Rooftop drinks without the minimum spend
Look out for specials posted in coworking spaces or cafés. Everyone knows winter = slower business, so discounts pop up without warning.
Most restaurants don’t change their menus seasonally—but they do have more tables. That means you can skip the overpriced touristic places and explore spots at your own pace. Also, don’t ignore lunch specials. The menu do dia (daily menu) often gives you a starter, main, drink, and espresso for under €12. That’s basically magic in Europe.
If you’re thinking of Lisbon as your next destination, January is the time to go. You’ll get the full experience of the city, spend less on your journey, and actually enjoy the luxury of space—without paying luxury prices. That’s a win no matter how many spreadsheets you’re working on.
Remote work isn’t just about WiFi—it’s about where you’re sitting when you crush that to-do list. The good news? Lisbon gets it. The city is stacked with stylish cafés and coworking spaces that don’t feel like office purgatory. You get good coffee, ergonomic chairs, and other people who also forgot what day it is. Here’s where to plug in.
Yes, it’s pretty. Yes, the pancakes are photogenic. But Dear Breakfast is more than a brunch destination—it’s a legit place to post up for a few hours. The Bica location is usually quiet in the mornings, with good coffee, strong WiFi, and a relaxed vibe.
Bonus: Plenty of light for Zoom calls and photos that scream “I work remotely, but tastefully.”
This is a coworking-meets-coliving hub built for digital nomads. It’s the type of place where you’ll meet people running their own startups, writing books, or casually managing marketing campaigns from three time zones away.
Fast WiFi
Great location in Cais do Sodré
Events and community vibes, if you're into that
Pro tip: Ask about day passes—some months they’re open, some they’re not. If you're staying elsewhere, they won’t always advertise availability.
Need something more focused and less avocado toast-y? Heden is your spot. The Lisbon outpost in Santa Apolónia is flooded with natural light, filled with art, and equipped with actual ergonomic chairs (not the folding kind). It feels creative but productive.
They also have a rooftop with views of the river and the train station. Get there early and it’s all yours.
What makes Lisbon such a great destination for remote workers isn’t just the infrastructure—it’s the balance. You’ll be typing away one minute, then walking along the river the next. Cafés understand that you’re there to work, not just sip slowly. Coworkings respect your space, and often have silent rooms, call booths, and even workshops to break the day.
In a world where finding the right work vibe can be hit or miss, Portugal’s capital delivers. The city makes it easy to stay productive without locking you in. Whether you’re team espresso or team oat flat white, there’s a place here with your name on it (and solid WiFi).
January in Lisbon is like finding a first-class seat at economy prices. With the city in its off-peak season, you can snag high-end accommodations without the high-end price tag. Whether you're here for a short stay or setting up a remote work base, the streets are quieter, the restaurants more accessible, and the overall experience more relaxed.
For digital nomads, RentRemote offers apartments tailored to your work-life balance needs. Think ergonomic desks, ultrawide monitors, and blazing-fast WiFi—all set in charming neighborhoods that let you experience Lisbon like a local.
According to recent data, Lisbon ranks as one of Europe's most affordable destinations in January. The average cost for a two-night stay in a three-star hotel is approximately £152, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
LX Boutique Hotel: Located near the Belém Tower, this hotel offers stylish rooms with views of the Tagus River.
Hotel Gat Rossio: Situated close to the city's main attractions, it's a perfect base for visiting Lisbon.
Casa de São Mamede: Experience traditional Portugal in this charming hotel nestled in the heart of Lisbon.
These options provide comfort and convenience, ensuring your stay in Lisbon is both enjoyable and productive.
In January, Lisbon transforms into a haven for travelers seeking comfort, focus, and affordability. With fewer crowds and more opportunities to explore, it's the perfect time to experience the city at your own pace.
Need a break from your keyboard? Good news: some of the best things to visit in Portugal are just a short train ride from Lisbon. And January is honestly one of the best times to go—no lines, cheaper tickets, fewer crowds, and that soft winter light that makes your photos look unintentionally artsy.
Here are three winter-friendly day trips that are 100% worth bundling up for:
Yes, it’s touristy. But going off-season can feel like you have it all to yourself. Pena Palace sits high up in the hills, often surrounded by low-hanging clouds that give it a spooky fairytale vibe. The colorful exterior pops even more in the grey light, and the views are stunning—even if you’re sharing them with a bit of fog.
How to get there:
Take a 40-minute train from Rossio Station.
The palace is a steep uphill walk or a €3 shuttle ride.
Pro tip: Bring comfy shoes. The streets are cobbled and slippery when wet—but that’s part of the charm.
Cascais in summer = packed beaches. Cascais in January = peaceful walks by the sea, cheap seafood lunches, and space to breathe. This old fishing village has turned into a stylish little coastal escape, and it’s still lively in winter without feeling sleepy.
Things to do:
Stroll along the promenade
Grab a fresh fish lunch at Mar do Inferno
Take photos at Boca do Inferno, a dramatic cliffside spot just outside the center
Train from Cais do Sodré, 35 minutes. Cheap, easy, scenic.
Want to feel like you're discovering a secret? Setúbal is it. It's got great food, riverside views, and some of the best seafood in Portugal. The vibe is much more local, and during winter, it's relaxed without being dead.
Try:
Oysters and white wine at Casa do Mar
A walk through the quiet marina
Wine tasting at a nearby vineyard
How to get there:
Comboio from Lisbon to Setúbal, around 1 hour.
Or rent a car if you're feeling adventurous (hello, hills and coastal roads).
Whether you’re craving castles, coastline, or comfort food, these day trips will scratch the itch without eating up your whole weekend. And in this corner of the world, even the off-season has its perks.
Pack snacks, bring layers, and don’t forget your camera—the photos you’ll get on these quiet winter adventures might just be the best of your entire visit.
If you’re wondering whether it’s a good idea to visit Lisbon in January, here’s the answer: absolutely. The city is quieter, the views are still incredible, and the food somehow tastes better when it’s cold outside. You’ll skip the lines, find better places to work, and visit spots locals actually go to this time of year.
It’s not the postcard-perfect summer version of Lisbon—and that’s exactly why it works. It’s slower, cheaper, and honestly, more real. You’ll have space to think, visit museums, streets to yourself, and cafés that feel like second homes.
So go ahead. Pack a jacket. Book that flight. January in Lisbon might not come with beach days—but it comes with everything else that matters.
Yes—January is actually a great time to visit Lisbon. You’ll enjoy fewer tourists, cheaper flights and hotels, and shorter lines at popular attractions like Belém Tower and Pena Palace. Plus, the city’s winter events and cozy food scene make it feel both relaxed and alive.
Lisbon in January has mild temperatures, usually between 8°C and 15°C. You can expect some rainy weather, but also typically sunny days perfect for exploring the city’s quiet streets or heading out on a scenic day trip. Just bring warm clothes and you’ll be set.
Yes—Lisbon’s main attractions are open year round, including places like the Jerónimos Monastery, Castelo de São Jorge, and museums like MAAT. Winter is the low season, so you’ll get all the culture with none of the long queues.
Digital nomads love Lisbon for its cozy cafés and fully-equipped coworking spaces. Top picks include Heden Santa Apolónia, Outsite Lisbon, and Dear Breakfast (Bica). In January, these spots are calmer, making it easier to find a seat, focus, and meet other remote workers.
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