Snowbirds: 5 Reasons Why Lisbon Is the Ultimate Winter Escape

Want to discover an alternative destination to classic Snowbird spots like Florida, Mexico, and Spain? Head to Lisbon, Portugal's charming capital, which will warm your heart and soul all winter long! This dream destination offers you the chance to stroll along beautiful beaches, wander through picturesque streets, and savour a glass of exquisite wine every day!

So, pack your bags and let yourself be seduced by this metropolis that promises to make your winter unforgettable. Here are five great reasons to move to Lisbon for a whole season!

1. To warm up in the sun at all times

If it’s sunshine you’re looking when you escape Canada for the winter, you’re sure to find it in Lisbon, with an average of 300 days of sun per year. That means even with average temperatures of 15-18 degrees Celsius between December and February, you’ll be warm.

As temperatures tend to drop in the late afternoon, it’s best to pack a light coat or merino wool sweater. This way, you can comfortably enjoy an apero by the ocean at sunset without being too cold.

If you’re already on the ice bath trend, you can even swim in the ocean with water temperatures that are about the same as the outside temperature, between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius.

2. To enjoy a low cost of living

Europe is probably not the first region that comes to mind when considering a cheap destination. If you decide to settle in Lisbon, you’ll be surprised to realize that compared to the rest of Western Europe, Portugal is actually a relatively affordable country.

To give you an idea, although rents may seem expensive, you can get by for about $2,000 per month for a small studio in the central neighbourhoods of Lisbon and $1,500 if you live a bit further from the centre.

Luckily, groceries and restaurant meals are cheap, compensating for the more significant portion of the budget taken up by accommodation.  A dinner for two people, including a bottle of (very good!) local wine, will cost you less than $50. And that’s even if you order specialties like fresh fish or grilled octopus.

3. To relax on magnificent beaches 

If relaxing for you means sunbathing with your feet in the sand, discover super accessible beaches around Lisbon to enjoy sunny days. 

‍Here are three favourite beaches you can get to without a car:

Cascais

Head to Cascais, which is only a 55-minute ride by train from Lisbon. You’ll travel along the coast to arrive at this charming seaside town. 

Wander through the historic centre, and if you’re a bit hungry, stop at House of Wonders. The colourful rooftop terrace and their vegetarian menu will delight you.

Costa da Caparica

Board one of the famous orange boats (the cacilheiros) that take you across the Tagus River to the port of Trafaria. From there, you can walk or take the bus to Caparica Beach. 

Stroll on the boardwalk that runs along the beach to watch the surfers, have a little coffee, or simply bask in the sunshine.

Setúbal

It will take you about an hour by train to reach this destination, but you won’t be disappointed. Go to the Mercado do Livramento, a public market for fish and seafood in a building decorated with azulejos, the ceramic tiles that Portugal is famous for. 

Don’t leave Setubal without tasting Choco Frito, an authentic fried cuttlefish dish that will leave you asking for more.

Bonus: the Algarve

While visiting this part of the world, why not explore the beaches of the Algarve, in the south of the country and only 3.5 hours from Lisbon? 

With the spectacular cliffs of Sagres and the peaceful secluded coves of the east coast, the beaches of the Algarve are undoubtedly among Portugal's best places to visit.

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4. To Discover the Iconic Wine Routes of Portugal

Spending the winter in Portugal is a dream if you’re a wine and port lover. With a choice of 31 picturesque wine regions, the wine routes of Portugal promise you an unbeatable cultural experience.

When you’re based in Lisbon, the most accessible region is the Alentejo. Whether it’s for its incredible wines or its tasty cuisine, like olive oil and cheese, you’ll fall under the charm of its golden plains and varied landscapes.

Visit the historic city of Évora or opt for a romantic getaway to L’And Vineyards, an exclusive hotel with modern architecture that offers you a daily wine tasting during your stay.

5. To Enjoy an Excellent Quality of Life

There’s everything you need to live peacefully in Lisbon. You’ll find yourself wanting to stay once winter is over.

‍Indulge your inner foodie and let yourself be tempted by the mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine that emphasizes on dishes with fish, seafood, and fresh produce.

Are you an art and culture lover? Discover the many museums, festivals, free events in parks, and Fado performances in intimate settings. 

Don’t be intimidated to venture to places off the beaten track—the Portuguese are really friendly people who will welcome you with open arms to make you appreciate the subtleties of their culture.

Lisbon, nicknamed the city of seven hills, will undoubtedly keep you active. Everything can be reached on foot or by public transport.

‍Travel tip: use the Bolt app (the equivalent of Uber in Portugal) to pay less for your taxi ride.

Escape to Lisbon for a Sun-Soaked Winter

Spending the winter in Lisbon means enjoying 300 days of sunshine a year, an affordable cost of living, breathtaking beaches, and picturesque wine routes, all in a city rich in culture and history.

Before packing your bags for a winter under the Portuguese sun, don’t forget to plan the essentials: your travel insurance with soNomad.

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