Travel Tips: Spending Christmas In Lisbon, Portugal

Christmas in Portugal seems oh-so-warm, especially in the city of Lisbon where Christmas markets are turning up in time for the holidays. Exhibitions, nativity scenes, and concerts are just some of the events you can look forward to.

For families who would be spending their vacation in Lisbon, a Christmas village is set up in Parque Eduardo VII. Events are made and celebrated for children and parents to enjoy. Delicacies are also available around the corner.

In fact, Lisbon is a city with lots of delicious treats. Locals would suggest that you have to try Bolo Rei or King Cake, the country's version of their fruit cake. Boro Rei is a ring-like brioche pastry that was made with port wine, and filled with dried and crystallized fruit.

Other Christmas treats travelers ought to buy are Rabanadas do Minho, a Portuguese French Bread made with warm wine and honey syrup, and Sonhos, a doughnut-like pastry that is famously served during the Holidays.

A couple of restaurants also accommodate international cuisines along the way. So, remember, when you're in Lisbon, prepare your tummy when eating lots of snacks and cakes for Christmas.

For culture vultures who has the spirit of the holidays, if you could visit Estrela Basilica, turnsMártires Basilica, Lisbon Cathedral, the National Museum of Ancient Art and the National Tile Museum, they'll be setting up nativity scenes in every nook and turn.

But, what everybody is looking out for is the Natalis, Lisbon's Christmas market being put up five days in December. During this period, various activities and entertainment for everyone is made available. Workshops for Arts and Crafts are being held, and competitions for best nativity scene and Christmas decorations as well as a Santa race.

This year, Lisbon will be having 11 musical concerts in their churches starting from December 3 to 17.