New Year’s Eve in Lisbon – Celebrations, Traditions and Tips
How to Spend New Year’s Eve in Lisbon – Places to Visit and Lisbon Traditions
Spending New Year’s Eve in Lisbon means experiencing fireworks over the Tagus River, live music in Praça do Comércio and beloved traditions like eating 12 raisins at midnight. Lisbon, with its festive atmosphere and exciting events, provides an unforgettable way to bid farewell to the past year and welcome the next. This guide covers everything you need to know about how to celebrate New Year’s in Lisbon and discover the best places for tourists.
Lisbon New Year’s Eve Traditions
In Lisbon, New Year’s Eve often begins as a family affair, with a special dinner at home featuring traditional Portuguese dishes, mainly salted cod (bacalhau). After dinner, many locals head out to join the public celebrations, usually around Praça do Comércio, where people gather to watch the fireworks and listen to live music.
It’s common for Portuguese people to have a glass of champagne ready for the midnight toast as well as the tradition of eating 12 raisins at midnight, one for each stroke of the clock, to bring good luck for each month of the upcoming year.
It’s slightly easier than the tradition of full size grapes that you see in Spain, as the raisins are smaller and more manageable to eat quickly without the danger of anything going wrong. It’s a fun, simple tradition that adds a bit of magic to the New Year’s celebrations!
Other New Year’s customs in Portugal include jumping off a chair at the first bell, symbolising a leap into a fresh start, toasting with a coin in the pocket, called propiziatorio, a quirky ritual believed to attract prosperity for the year ahead, and wearing brand new blue underwear, for good luck.
Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lisbon
If you’re looking to ring in the New Year in Lisbon, one top spot is Praça do Comércio, right in the heart of the city. This grand riverside square is transformed into a lively celebration area with a big stage for live music.
As midnight gets closer, the energy really picks up. The countdown ends with an impressive 15-minute fireworks show over the Tagus River. There’s live music that goes on for hours and a great crowd with a fun mix of locals and tourists all celebrating together.
If you’re up for more after that, it’s just a short walk to Pink Street, one of Lisbon’s most iconic nightlife spots with plenty of bars and clubs to keep the night going.
Other popular choices are the Belém district, near the iconic landmarks like Tower of Belém and Jerónimos Monastery, or Parque das Nações. The waterfront offers panoramic views of the river and a slightly more relaxed ambiance to enjoy the fireworks.
At these popular spots, you’ll find street vendors selling drinks, snacks and packets of 12 raisins for the traditional midnight wishes.
For a truly memorable experience, consider the Lisbon New Year’s Eve cruise on the Tagus River. These elegant celebrations typically include a multi-course dinner, free drinks and live music on board, as you sail past illuminated landmarks like Ponte 25 de Abril and Belém Tower, with the midnight fireworks beautifully reflected on the water. You can find more information on our Tagus River cruises page.
Some of Lisbon’s hotels and rooftop bars host exclusive New Year’s Eve parties with dinner, DJs and stunning views of the fireworks. If you’re staying at a hotel, make sure to check ahead as many events are ticketed and tend to sell out quickly.
Restaurants for New Year’s Eve In Lisbon
Many restaurants in Lisbon go all out for New Year’s Eve, offering special set menus, live music and even rooftop firework views. In historic neighbourhoods like Bairro Alto, Chiado and Alfama, you’ll find everything from traditional Fado venues to upscale dining rooms. Keep in mind that many locals celebrate at home until midnight, so smaller family-run eateries may close early.
Along the Tagus River and in Baixa, many elegant restaurants host glamorous NYE dinners featuring DJs, bands and views of the midnight fireworks. These venues typically require reservations well in advance and offer set menus ranging from €100 to €300 per person.
If you’re planning a memorable Lisbon New Year’s Eve, here are five of the best restaurants to consider:
| Restaurant | Description | NYE Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via Graça | Upscale Portuguese cuisine with panoramic city views. Ideal for watching fireworks. | From €290 per person | Visit Via Graça website |
| Zambeze | Mozambican-Portuguese fusion with rooftop views over Lisbon and the river. | From €260 per person | Visit Zambeze website |
| Monte Mar | Elegant riverside venue with a 1920s-style NYE party, fine seafood and wine. | From €185 | Visit Monte Mar website |
| Grenache | Refined French-Portuguese NYE tasting menu near the castle, with luxurious ingredients and wine pairings. | From €260 per person | Visit Grenache website |
| Aprazível | Chic Baixa-Chiado spot that offers good value gourmet NYE menus with drinks. | From €125 per person | Visit Aprazível website |
Lisbon New Year’s Eve: Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Year’s Eve in Lisbon family-friendly?
Yes, New Year’s Eve in Lisbon can be enjoyed by all ages. The main event at Praça do Comércio is open to everyone and features live music and fireworks in a friendly atmosphere. Families often start the evening with a special dinner at home or a restaurant and then head out for the countdown. If you’re traveling with kids, consider watching the fireworks from quieter spots like Belém for a more relaxed experience.
Do I need to book restaurants for New Year’s Eve in Lisbon?
Yes, in New Year’s Eve, many restaurants, rooftop bars, cruises, and hotel events require reservations well in advance so it’s best to book as early as possible to secure your spot.
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