New Year's Day in Lisbon
Start the Year with Sun, Sea & Portuguese Charm
Wake up to a fresh start in Lisbon! Whether you're recovering from last night's celebrations or ready for adventure, discover the best ways to spend January 1st in Portugal's sunny capital.
A Fresh Start in Lisbon
New Year's Day (Dia de Ano Novo) is a public holiday in Portugal. While many locals spend it recovering at home with family, Lisbon still offers plenty for visitors to enjoy. The city has a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere – perfect for starting the year right.
Traditional New Year's Swim
Start 2026 with a Refreshing Dip
Join thousands of brave souls for the 'mergulho do ano novo' – a traditional New Year's Day ocean swim. It's believed to bring good luck, energy, and health for the year ahead. The water is cold (around 14-15°C), but the experience is unforgettable!
The most popular spot for the New Year's swim near Lisbon. Hundreds gather for an organized event with music, hot drinks, and a festive atmosphere. Easy to reach by train from Cais do Sodré.
Long sandy beach on the south bank with organized New Year's swim events. More space than Carcavelos, popular with local families. Beautiful wide beach perfect for a post-swim walk.
Charming setting in the picturesque fishing town of Cascais. Smaller, more intimate swim in the sheltered bay. Perfect if you want to combine with a day exploring this beautiful coastal town.
Closer to Lisbon with a friendly local atmosphere. Less touristy option with a genuine Portuguese New Year's swim experience.
- •Bring a towel and warm clothes to change into
- •Wear flip-flops or water shoes for rocky areas
- •Don't stay in too long – a quick dip is enough!
- •Warm drinks are often available at organized events
- •Check local social media for exact times (they can vary)
- •Go with friends – it's more fun and safer together
Brunch & Breakfast Spots
Fuel Up for the First Day of the Year
Many Lisbon restaurants are closed on January 1st, but these spots typically welcome guests for a late breakfast or brunch. Always check ahead as hours may vary.
The famous food hall has reduced vendors on January 1st, but you'll usually find coffee, pastries, and some food stalls open. Great central location.
Famous for their incredible chocolate cake. Perfect for a sweet start to the year. The LX Factory location has a lovely atmosphere.
Beautiful brunch spot in a greenhouse setting. Known for healthy options, great coffee, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Specialty coffee and light breakfast options. Scandinavian-inspired with excellent coffee – perfect for caffeine lovers.
Many hotel restaurants remain open on holidays. Try Four Seasons, Pestana Palace, or boutique hotel restaurants for a special brunch.
Local bakery chain with pastéis de nata, sandwiches, and coffee. Not fancy but reliable and authentic Portuguese breakfast.
What's Open & Closed
Plan Your Day Right
January 1st is a public holiday, so many businesses close. Here's what to expect:
- ✓Miradouros (viewpoints) – always accessible
- ✓Beaches and waterfront areas
- ✓Some museums (check hours online)
- ✓Oceanário de Lisboa (reduced hours)
- ✓LX Factory – most shops and cafés open
- ✓Time Out Market (limited vendors)
- ✓Hotel restaurants and bars
- ✓Some tourist-area restaurants
- ✓Christmas markets (Wonderland Lisboa until Jan 6)
- ✓Public transportation (holiday schedule)
- ✓Parks and gardens
- ✗Most local shops and supermarkets
- ✗Banks and government offices
- ✗Many traditional restaurants
- ✗Small family-owned businesses
- ✗Some museums (verify online)
- ✗Most pharmacies (except duty pharmacies)
Walks & Outdoor Activities
Fresh Air for a Fresh Start
January 1st is often sunny in Lisbon (average 15°C). Take advantage of the peaceful streets and beautiful light for a walk.
Walk along the Tagus from Cais do Sodré to Belém. Pass the MAAT museum, see the Monument to the Discoveries, and end at the iconic Belém Tower. Stop at Pastéis de Belém if open!
Wander through Lisbon's oldest neighborhood. Start at Praça do Comércio, climb through Alfama's narrow streets, and visit the viewpoints of Santa Luzia, Portas do Sol, and Senhora do Monte.
Modern waterfront district perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Oceanário may be open, and there are usually some cafés operating. Great for families with playgrounds and open spaces.
Explore the beautiful botanical garden (if open) and the charming Príncipe Real neighborhood. The garden has exotic plants and peaceful paths – perfect for quiet reflection.
First Sunset of the Year
Watch the Sun Set on Day One
There's something magical about watching the first sunset of a new year. Lisbon's famous miradouros offer perfect spots. Sunset on January 1st is around 5:30 PM.
The highest viewpoint in Lisbon with 360° panoramic views. Less crowded than others, perfect for a peaceful moment. Watch the city light up as darkness falls.
Beautiful views over downtown and the river. There's a kiosk that might be open for drinks. Popular with locals and visitors alike.
Romantic viewpoint with beautiful azulejo tiles and bougainvillea. Overlooks Alfama's rooftops and the river. Quintessentially Lisbon.
Next to Santa Luzia with sweeping views over Alfama. Usually has a kiosk open for drinks. Great spot for photos.
The undulating rooftop of the MAAT museum in Belém offers unique views over the river and 25 de Abril bridge. Free to walk on even if museum is closed.
Recovery & Relaxation
Take It Easy After Last Night
If you celebrated hard last night, January 1st is the perfect day to recover. Here are some gentle options:
Several hotel spas welcome non-guests. Try Four Seasons Spa, Corinthia Spa, or smaller boutique options. Book ahead as they're popular on holidays.
Find a cozy café that's open, order a galão (Portuguese latte), and watch the world go by. Simple pleasures for a slow start to the year.
Sometimes the best plan is no plan. Find a sunny bench along the Tagus and just sit. The winter sun in Lisbon is gentle and warming.
Lisbon's churches are peaceful refuges. The Jerónimos Monastery (if open) or São Roque Church offer quiet, beautiful spaces for reflection.
Christmas Markets Still Open
Festive Fun Until January 6th
Good news! Lisbon's Christmas markets typically stay open until January 6th (Three Kings Day), so you can still enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Lisbon's main Christmas event with ice skating, Ferris wheel, market stalls, and food vendors. Perfect for families or anyone wanting festive vibes.
Inside the historic bullring, this market offers crafts, food, and a covered space perfect if the weather turns.
Practical Tips
Make the Most of January 1st
Metro, buses, and trains run on a Sunday/holiday schedule. Less frequent but operational. Check Carris/Metro websites for exact times.
January in Lisbon averages 12-15°C with plenty of sunshine. Dress in layers – mornings can be cool but afternoons warm up nicely.
ATMs are available but some may run low. Withdraw cash on December 31st if possible. Many places accept cards.
Most are closed, but duty pharmacies (farmácias de serviço) operate 24/7. Check online or look for the green cross sign.
Book ahead! The few restaurants open will be busy. Hotel restaurants are your most reliable option.
There's no rush. January 1st is meant to be relaxed. Don't try to do too much – enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.