Christmas in Lagos: The Algarve in December Is Not What You Think

December in the Algarve is misunderstood. Temperature averages 16-18 degrees. The light is extraordinary — golden hour lasting most of the afternoon. The beaches are empty. Ponta da Piedade without the boat queues is a completely different experience.

The old town in December operates at a pace summer makes impossible. The live music does not stop: Stevie Ray's runs shows through winter, Mullens is open, Casa do Jazz programmes into the new year.