Christmas Markets in Porto

Christmas markets worldwide embody the essence of this magical and festive season, creating charming streets and squares filled with twinkling lights, Christmas decorations, and a joyful atmosphere of excitement. More than just shopping venues, Christmas markets provide an opportunity for the community to meet, where people of all ages gather to share the Christmas spirit and create long-lasting memories. This festive atmosphere can be felt throughout the city and its outskirts. These markets combine cultural traditions, showcasing local handicrafts and adding a welcoming atmosphere that evokes the joy and magic of this unique time of the year.

Experience the charm of Porto’s Christmas Markets 

Mercado da Alegria, Praça da Batalha
Surrounded by an eclectic mix of architecture, from historic buildings like the Monument to the Dead of the First World War and the Parish Church of Santo Ildefonso to more contemporary structures such as the famous Teatro Nacional São João and the renovated Centro de Cinema da Batalha, this square is a dynamic reflection of the fusion between tradition and modernity. For those interested in visiting this market (free of charge), it’s open from Sunday to Thursday, from 10 am to 8 pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 10 am to 9 pm.

Urban Market Christmas Edition, Ateneu Comercial do Porto
Established in 1868, the Ateneu has a long tradition as a space dedicated to promoting culture, education, and social activities. Walking inside is like traveling back in time, with the imposing staircase in front of you, steps covered with a red carpet, and an imposing mirror spanning from one wall to another. On the left, you can access the museum and the private club, and on the right, the fantastic C’alma, where you can enjoy one of the best coffee shops in Oporto. As you ascend the staircase, several stalls offer a wide range of festive products, and in the center, a room is filled with items perfect for Christmas gifts. This Christmas market will be open from December 15th to 23rd, from 10 am to 8 pm.

Feira de Natal, Mercado do Bolhão
Mercado do Bolhão is considered by many as a historical and cultural landmark that represents the vibrant tradition of this city’s commercial life. It first opened in 1914 and is known for its lively atmosphere and stalls offering fresh goods, from fruit and vegetables to fish, meat, and other typically Portuguese products. For the first time, this historic market will host a Christmas market on December 14th, 15th, and 16th, from 11 am to 10 pm. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy 22 temporary stalls dedicated to traditional Christmas goods, 18 of which are dedicated to food categories, and 4 temporary stalls dedicated to non-food products.

Mercado de Natal do Porto, Jardim da Cordoaria
Jardim da Cordoaria is an idyllic meeting place for this Christmas, hosting a regional market full of stalls and exhibitors. There’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout December, from the 14 Christmas trees painted by talented urban artists to Santa’s House. This Christmas market will be open from Monday to Thursday, from 2 pm to 7 pm, and from Friday to Sunday, from 2 pm to 8 pm.

WOW é Natal, World of Wine (WOW)
On the other side of the river but not to be missed is the Christmas market at WOW (World of Wine). With its majestic Christmas tree and the presence of a carousel, this space will feature several attractions, from a Christmas train to a Post Office where children can write their letters to Santa Claus, as well as Santa’s own House and an unmissable Gingerbread house, with several spaces for workshops and traditional games. In what is known as the Street Market, this Christmas Market will reinforce its usual offer, with dozens of artisans promoting their products at the various stands available. This Christmas Market is open from November 25th to January 7th.

Mercado de Natal de Matosinhos
Last but not least, Matosinhos Christmas Market takes place from November 24 to December 23 in Basílio Teles Park in Matosinhos. In this market, you can find more than 80 talented artisans presenting a variety of products and handicrafts, from the most diverse products of our gastronomy to design products, books, fashion, and jewelry. The market is open from Sunday to Thursday, between 11 am and 7.30 pm, and on Fridays, Saturdays, and national holidays between 12 noon and 11 pm.

There is tremendous joy in Christmas that brings communities together—families, and friends, often overcoming differences and fostering a collective sense of joy and peace. All this, and much more, can be perfectly felt as you wander through all these Christmas markets in Porto and visit these unique and exciting places.