Suggestions: Discover what to do in Lisbon in the winter

Even if the weather is bad, watching a cultural show is an experience that many people enjoy. And doing it in what is considered the largest concert hall in the country raises expectations. At the Belém Cultural Center you can see classical music concerts, opera, jazz or theater plays and dance shows. It is one of the most iconic facilities and one of the main centers of cultural and leisure activities in Lisbon. The CCB Museum of Contemporary Art enhances the connection between visual, performing arts and architecture.

Visiting Lisbon and not listening to Fado, recognized as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2011, is almost like going to Rome and not seeing the Pope. There are several Fado houses in some of the capital's city historic neighborhoods, like the Fado in Chiado that offers live Fado shows daily, Sundays are an exception at the Cine Theatro Gymnasio. You certainly won't be indifferent to this originally Portuguese style of music, in which Fado singers are accompanied by the sound of Portuguese guitars.

A good idea of what to do in Lisbon in the winter is to watch a live Opera and what better place to do this than the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos? Inaugurated in 1793 by Queen D. Maria I, this beautiful building, with neoclassical characteristics, is classified as a National Monument and is the only theater in Portugal dedicated to the presentation of Opera, symphonic and choral music. Its resident artistic groups are the Portuguese Symphony Orchestra and the Choir of the National Theater of São Carlos. It is also part of the European Route of Historic Theatres.

Whether it's raining, sunny or cold, the Oceanário is always a must-see when you're in Lisbon. It brings together more than eight thousand marine creatures and plants from 500 species, and is considered one of the best aquariums in the world. Sharks, penguins, puffins, sea otters, clownfish or beautiful corals are some of the species that can be observed. The central aquarium alone has five million liters of salt water.

Fernando Pessoa is, unquestionably, one of the best-known Portuguese writers of all time, and visiting the house where he lived for the last 15 years of his life is the next suggestion on this list of what to do in Lisbon in winter. The exhibition about the work and life of the poet, whose estate is classified as a National Treasure, takes place across the three floors of the building, which also has a library where world poetry is highlighted.

Footballer Eusébio da Silva Ferreira or Fado singer Amália Rodrigues are some of the Portuguese personalities who are buried in this building that impresses with its architectural beauty, being considered one of the most beautiful monuments of the Baroque style in Portugal. The tomb rooms also house some former Portuguese Presidents and prominent writers. In addition to the symbolism it assumes, the National Pantheon is also known for the magnificent views over the city and the river, which its terrace allows you to enjoy.

Lisbon is the capital city of a country indelibly marked by the Discoveries, and it is not surprising that it has remarkable monuments from that era. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the neighboring Torre de Belém, the Jerónimos Monastery is a remarkable work of architecture from the 16th century. Located close to the banks of the Tagus River, it impresses with its imposing façade and is considered the "jewel" of the Manueline style, which combines architectural elements from the Gothic with the Renaissance. Nearby, also enjoy the iconic Monument to the Discoveries.

Located right next to the Tagus in the Belém area, the Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology stands out for its distinctive and contemporary architecture. Opened to the public in 2016, the museum includes a thermoelectric plant and a contemporary building, which are connected by a garden. It has permanent exhibitions, as well as temporary exhibitions and activities. Even if you visit Lisbon in winter and have some luck with the weather, don't miss the sunset that you can watch from the top of the Museum.

The National Coach Museum has a very interesting collection of royal vehicles used between the 17th century and the end of the 19th century and is on the list of most visited museums in Lisbon and even in Portugal. It boasts one of the most outstanding collections of royal coaches and carriages in the world and there it is possible to observe the notable technical evolution in animal-drawn transport, as well as in the decoration and ornamentation of these vehicles.

Relaxing in a Spa is an experience enjoyed by many and a great idea if you are in Lisbon in winter. Spa and Wellness Services at the Ritz Four Seasons include massages, body treatments, signature treatments, specialty treatments or facials. There are several program options for a full day, half day or relaxation experiences that will certainly be a balm for the body and mind. Also take the opportunity to take a dip in the 18 meter long heated indoor pool.