Christmas trees are one of the biggest attractions of the Christmas season, sharing the limelight with the lights in the city, the markets and fairs and the Santa Clauses who appear all over the city.
After we’ve suggested a guide for each of these themes and, by the way, an itinerary of what to do with the little ones in the city at this time of year, it’s time to show you a guide to the Christmas trees in Lisbon or around the capital, so you can remember them later.
This season is synonymous with magic and joy, and you can see it all over the faces of children and adults alike, who are always “euphoric” with the typical decorations at this time of year.
The highlight of this magic is the twinkling star at the top of every Christmas tree. And that’s precisely the route we’re going to take you on next.
The first Christmas tree in Portugal
Before that, we want to share with you what was the first Christmas tree in the country.
Both the tree and the greeting card are part of Portugal’s Christmas traditions and are about to turn two centuries old, having been introduced by King Ferdinand II, based on an idea brought from Central Europe.
The tree you see in this photo is a replica of the country’s first Christmas tree and can be seen at the Pena Palace in Sintra until next Kings Day (January 6).
As you can also see, the presents around the tree were unwrapped, as this was how they would be given directly to the person to be gifted.
Christmas trees in Lisbon
In Lisbon, Christmas trees are one of the main symbols of the Christmas season and can be found in various places, both public and private.
After all, as the month of December approaches , we start making preparations for the festivities, including, of course, setting up the Christmas tree.
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Armazéns do Chiado
The Christmas lights and, of course, the giant Christmas tree at Armazéns do Chiado are always the first to be inaugurated during the Christmas season.
And the moment brings thousands of people to Rua Garrett, which this year took place on November 11 at 6pm, marking the arrival of Christmas in downtown Lisbon and Chiado.
Praça do Comércio
The Christmas tree set up in Praça do Comércio/Terreiro do Paço marks the start of the Christmas festivities in the Lisbon capital.
It’s the largest tree in the city and it’s always a highlight of the season when it’s inaugurated, which this year happened on December 1 and with some new features, namely a music concert with the duet Anjos.
Rossio
The Rossio Christmas tree takes on a new glow when the lights are switched on, highlighting the decorations in the shape of hot air balloons.
Around this tree you’ll find the Rossio Christmas Market, a market full of food and drink stalls and, of course, lots of handicrafts.
Eduardo VII Park
The tree set up in Parque Eduardo VII is part of one of the city’s largest Christmas entertainment parks, Wonderland Lisboa.
You can visit it at the top of the park’s main staircase, which will give you access to a panoramic view of the city and all the park’s amusement equipment, such as the Ferris Wheel.
Other Christmas Markets
During the Christmas period, there are several Christmas markets set up in different parts of the city.
These markets are the perfect place to find Christmas trees in the city, as well as being the place to shop for your Christmas presents.
If you haven’t bought them all yet, you really must take a look at our last-minute suggestions.
Christmas trees in shopping centers
Moving on to the Christmas trees set up in shopping centers, there are some that are worth a longer visit, if only to take a photo of the little ones next to Santa Claus.
Amoreiras Shopping Center
Located on the central staircase of the Amoreiras Shopping Center, this Christmas tree, together with its famous nativity scene, are the main attractions during this festive season. After all, it’s a giant tree, six meters high.
In addition to these attractions, one of the oldest shopping centers in the city (and even in the country) has prepared the presence of the famous Santa Claus.
Colombo Center
The Christmas tree that is set up every year in one of Centro Colombo‘s atriums is huge, and the big novelty is the little train that surrounds it, making all the children happy.
El Corte Inglés
El Corte Inglés’ Christmas tree is outside, next to the main door. The whole tree is decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments, not least the huge star at the top.
Inside the shopping center you’ll also find decorations appropriate to this time of year, as well as a wide range of Christmas gift ideas.
Loures Shopping
The largest shopping centers in Lisbon, or on the outskirts of the city, have the most impressive Christmas trees you can visit.
This is the case with the one set up at Loures Shopping, just a few minutes from the city. It’s huge, very beautiful and next to it you’ll find an almost life-size representation of a Christmas nativity scene.
UBBO Shopping Resort
One of the largest shopping centers in Greater Lisbon could only have one of the most incredible Christmas trees in the city, which even leads through a tunnel to Santa’s House.
Christmas trees around Lisbon
As well as finding some of the most impressive Christmas trees in Lisbon, you’ll find other specimens that won’t disappoint you on the outskirts of the capital, in nearby towns and villages.
Sintra
About 30 km west of Lisbon, Sintra is known for being one of the most romantic places in the country and, at this time of year, it dresses up for Christmas.
As well as the well-known Christmas market, its Christmas tree, installed next to the Sintra Palace, is a must-see.
Cascais
Also 30 km from Lisbon is Cascais, known at Christmas time for its Christmas Village.
During the Christmas period, you can find Christmas trees in various parts of the city, but the one that stands out the most is the one next to Cascais Bay.
Christmas in Lisbon: plans to start planning the festive season now