Driving home for Christmas

The region of Center of Portugal offers its visitors a handful of enchanting Christmas celebrations that take place in cosy villages, inviting cities and places full of History. After 2 particularly challenging years, Christmas will be celebrated in a more intimate way, closer to the ones we love and to what really matters.

Due to the current energy issues, municipalities all over Portugal will implement some restrictions in terms of lighting system. Many will use alternative solutions such as LED lighting and Christmas lights will be lit for a shorter period during the festive season. The government of Portugal has put into action a crucial Energy Saving Programme headed to enterprises, public and private sectors and citizens.

This edition showcases absolutely one-of-a-kind Christmas celebrations held in Center of Portugal, namely in the charming Mountain Village Cabeça that every year turns into a 100% sustainable Christmas village, and in the cities of Águeda, made famous for its iconic umbrellas, Castelo Branco, Leiria, Viseu and Óbidos, a true icon of Christmas celebrations in Portugal!

Christmas is all about the endless pleasures of the table. Therefore, we will teach you some mouth-watering Christmas recipes created by the amazing restaurant DeRaiz, located in the charming city of Viseu. This magical season is all about sharing. And being grateful.

Confit codfish with cole rice

The almighty king of the Portuguese table also pays a visit on Christmas, namely on December 24th. Codfish can be cooked in 1001 different ways. This one is quite unique: codfish confit with cabbage rice!

Roasted lamb with oven rice

An unexpected lamb recipe to taste on Christmas time. This meat is highly appreciated in the inland of the country. Comforting food at its best!

Bolo-Rei

One of the most sought-after Christmas delicacies, "Bolo-Rei" is highly popular in Portugal. This tradition dates back to the 19th century. It was brought to Portugal by a Portuguese entrepreneur, Baltazar Júnior, who tasted this delicacy in Paris in 1840 and decided to bring the French recipe to Portugal. Initially it was only sold on Christmas Eve.

Closely related to the last years of the monarchy in Portugal, the Republicans prefer to call it "Christmas Cake" or "New Years's Cake", instead of "King Cake", "Bolo-Rei".

A perfect dessert, filled with candied fruits or dried fruits. A true Christmas classic! This one is paired with a delicious peanut ice cream!

Rabanadas with red wine sorbet

To make it simple: a sort of French toast. Aka “golden slices” or “egg slices”. This sweet is a true Christmas classic and an inventive way of using old bread that is fried and covered in sugar and cinnamon. Absolutely irresistible!