Winter sales in Lisbon: the guide to skipping the queues and finding the best discounts

Save

If you’ve been strolling along Lisbon ‘s main shopping streets, or in the city’s various shopping centers, you ‘ll have noticed that their shop windows have changed, now covered in large notices with some of our favorite words: SALES, PROMOTIONS and DISCOUNTS.

January is synonymous with winter sales and, as soon as the Christmas holidays are over, the “Sales” and “Promotions” stickers take over the city. But in a scenario where discounts can reach up to 70%, the difference between a smart purchase and an impulse buy lies in the strategy you use.

Whether you’re planning to renew your closet, buy a new cell phone or TV or invest in designer pieces, this is the essential guide to navigating the best sales and discounts in the capital.

When do prices really drop?

Officially, the “madness” began on December 28th, but it’s in the first half of January that Lisbon experiences the peak of low prices:

• 1st phase (beginning of January)
  • Greater variety of sizes and stock. It’s the ideal time for wool garments and comfortable winter footwear;
• 2nd phase (from January 15th)
  • The “second lows” appear and prices drop dramatically, although the offer is becoming increasingly limited;
• The “golden week” (end of January)
  • It’s all or nothing! Unique opportunities for those who aren’t in a hurry and are looking for last-minute bargains.

Where to find the best sales: the three different routes

There are three main places where you can take advantage of the best winter discounts and promotions:

1. The axis of luxury: Avenida da Liberdade
   • If you’re looking for international brands like Prada, Gucci or Fashion Clinic, Avenida da Liberdade is the place to go, and during sales these stores become much more affordable.
     • Secret Lisbon Tip: many of these boutiques run pre-sales for registered customers. It’s worth popping in and asking if there are any items already on special sale .
2. The charm of local commerce: Chiado, Baixa and Príncipe Real
   • If you prefer to escape the fast-fashion stores, lose yourself in the streets of Chiado and Baixa. Here, stores like Pollux (for the home) or Burel Factory offer national quality products at significant discounts. In Príncipe Real, Embaixada is a must for design and designer fashion.
3. The efficiency of large shopping centers
   • There’s no doubt that these are the preferred places for most Portuguese to find the lowest prices at this time of year, especially if the aim is to optimize time. Centro Colombo and Vasco da Gama are unbeatable for their variety. However, for a quieter experience focused on premium brands at outlet prices, you can bet on Freeport Lisboa Fashion Outlet, located in Alcochete, 20 minutes from Lisbon.

5 golden rules for not losing your mind (or your money)

The sale season is spectacular, but it can bring some disappointment at the end of the month (never forget that January seems “endless”). So that you don’t spend your entire monthly budget on things you don’t need, follow these rules and everything will be fine:

1. Take stock of what you really need to buy
   • Open your closet and see what you really need. Buying a fifth knitted sweater just because it’s 10€ isn’t saving, it’s hoarding;
2. Pay close attention to labels
   • The old price should always be visible. Compare the actual discount percentage;
3. Go for “luxury basics”
   • Sales are for buying noble materials (cashmere, silk, leather) that will last for years;
4. Pay attention to timetables
   • In Lisbon, shopping centers become chaotic after 5pm and at weekends. Try to go between 10am and 12pm on a working day;
5. Return policies
   • Remember that in physical stores, the establishment is not obliged to accept returns unless the item is faulty. Always check the exchange policy before paying.

If you follow all these rules strictly, not only will you not have any nasty surprises at the end of the month, but you’ll also be able to buy things that last longer.

So try to focus your budget on technology and seasonal clothing, because if you don’t use it this year, next year you’ll already have the shopping done.

Don’t miss out! Follow us on Facebook,Instagram and now also on WhatsApp!