7 magical villages to visit in Portugal at Christmas [travel guide with tips]

Updated on September 18, 2025

Christmas is a magical time filled with traditions. If you're someone who can’t resist the charm of the season, join us on an unforgettable journey through Portugal.

No matter where you’re starting from, renting a car to visit Portugal at Christmas lets you choose the vehicle that best suits your needs and gives you the freedom to plan your own route.

Keep reading and discover 7 villages that look like they’ve come straight out of a Christmas story:

• Sabugueiro
• Celorico da Beira
• Videmonte
• Sortelha
• Monsanto
• Piódão
• Lousã

Why visit Portugal at Christmas by car?

Many of the most enchanting villages to visit in Portugal at Christmas — such as Piódão, Sabugueiro or Sortelha — have limited access by public transport.

That’s why renting a car in Portugal is the most flexible and comfortable way to reach these unique destinations and enjoy the festive season without limitations.

Which villages should I visit in Portugal at Christmas? [7 suggestions]

The most enchanting villages to visit in Portugal at Christmas are Sabugueiro, Celorico da Beira, Videmonte, Sortelha, Monsanto, Piódão and Lousã. Each one comes to life with festive traditions, twinkling lights, and landscapes straight out of a Christmas storybook.

1. Sabugueiro (Seia): the highest village in Portugal

Located in the heart of the Serra da Estrela mountains, Sabugueiro — the highest village in Portugal — looks like it was taken from a Christmas fairy tale. It’s one of the most popular places to visit in Portugal during the holiday season, especially for families.

Surrounded by mountain scenery, this village offers the comforting scent of lit fireplaces and traditional smokehouses, along with stunning viewpoints and natural waterfalls that are a feast for the eyes.

Sabugueiro is part of the Mountain Villages route – image source

2. Celorico da Beira: tradition, snow and Serra cheese

Celorico da Beira is a historic village that offers authentic flavours and Christmas traditions that reflect the spirit of the local community.

The smell of smokehouses, burning firewood and hearty meals on the table makes the experience unforgettable. And if winter is particularly cold, Celorico is often blanketed in snow.

Tip: If you choose to rent a car in Portugal, make sure to book a 4-wheel drive vehicle to safely navigate Serra da Estrela’s mountain roads in winter.

This small mountain village is known as the “Capital of Serra da Estrela Cheese.”

3. Videmonte (Guarda): mountain authenticity at Christmas

Still within the Serra da Estrela region, Videmonte is a charming and traditional village — perfect for those seeking authenticity and a strong sense of community during a Christmas visit to Portugal.

The region’s traditional stone houses are well preserved, and some have been converted into cosy guest accommodations — ideal for spending a few days immersed in the Christmas spirit. Here, you can truly experience mountain hospitality, with warm fireplaces and timeless festive traditions.

Fun fact: Despite its rustic charm, the village features a modern coworking space — perfect for anyone who wants to work remotely while surrounded by the peace and quiet of the mountains.

In the heart of the village, the Casas Retiro de Xisto offer the perfect place to stay

4. Sortelha: a journey through time in the heart of Beira Interior

Continuing through Beira Interior (Guarda), if your holiday plans include peaceful walks through historic scenery, Sortelha should be at the top of your list of things to do in Portugal at Christmas.

The state of preservation of this small medieval village is truly remarkable. And at Christmas, its stone houses and ancient walls are lit up with festive lights, making it even more magical.

If you’re starting your itinerary in Guarda, find out where to rent a car in the city to visit Sortelha and other medieval villages.

Sortelha has been used as a filming location for various productions, including the recent movie Damsel, available on Netflix – image source

5. Monsanto: the most Portuguese village in Portugal at Christmas

Want to visit the most Portuguese village in Portugal this Christmas? Monsanto, in the district of Castelo Branco, is exactly what you’re looking for. Its rustic charm and breathtaking landscapes leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

What makes Monsanto truly unique are its granite houses built between giant boulders — a setting that resembles Santa’s elves’ homes, made even more magical by festive decorations.

Monsanto is an irresistible choice for anyone looking to visit Portugal at Christmas.

Discover the magic of Monsanto — a fairytale setting where every stone tells a story

6. Piódão: a living nativity scene in the Serra do Açor

Are nativity scenes your favourite Christmas tradition? Then you need to visit Piódão. This schist village, nestled on the slopes of the Serra do Açor, looks just like a real-life nativity scene.

The stone houses and dark rooftops lined along the hillside create a truly unique atmosphere. This destination is perfect for a Christmas experience full of magic.

The stone nativity scene comes to life amid the lights and magic of Christmas – image source

7. Lousã and the schist villages: Christmas surrounded by nature and tradition

Looking for nature and tradition? The typical schist houses create a warm, timeless setting. The villages of Talasnal and Candal, nestled on the mountain slopes, take on a special charm with festive lights and decorations.

It’s the perfect setting for an authentic Christmas experience, where tradition meets the peacefulness of nature.

Discover more schist villages to visit in Portugal in this article.

Candal, Schist Village – discover the essence of Christmas in the beauty of life’s simple things

FAQs about visiting Portugal at Christmas and car rentals

What type of car should I rent to visit Portugal at Christmas?

It depends on your destination. For villages in the Serra da Estrela region, it’s best to rent a pick-up or a more robust model due to snow and ice. For other areas, a family car rental is usually enough.

Where can I pick up my rental car to visit Portugal at Christmas?

To visit Portugal, Drivalia offers several car rental locations, including Lisbon, Porto, Faro and inland cities. This way, you can choose the most convenient starting point for your Christmas road trip.

Do I need to book my rental car in advance for Christmas?

Yes. Car rental demand in Portugal is high during the Christmas season, especially in snowy areas or tourist hotspots. Booking in advance ensures better prices and availability of your preferred vehicle.

Car rental to visit Portugal at Christmas with Drivalia

Now that you know what to see and do in Portugal at Christmas, all that’s left is to ensure you travel in comfort and safety.

That’s where Drivalia’s car rental service comes in. We offer a diverse fleet — perfect for discovering the charming villages and festive traditions that make Portugal a unique destination this time of year.

Booking is simple and done online. Just choose the vehicle that best suits your travel style, along with your preferred pickup location and date.

Get ready to experience magical moments and create unforgettable memories in Portugal this Christmas!