If you have a bit of the Grinch in you, one of the funniest movies to watch during the festive season, then you probably can’t bear to hear about Christmas. However, if you love elves, the ‘white-bearded old man’ and the magic of the lights, it’s time to take a ride and celebrate Christmas on rails.
Trips aboard a streetcar or on historic trains are some of the experiences available. So, get ready to parade through the streets of Porto, or to be transported to other destinations to photograph the “biggest Christmas tree in the country” or to see the “biggest and smallest Santa Claus in the world”. Let’s go?
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Historic Christmas Steam Train
Traveling on rails this Christmas is one of the most magical ways to experience the season. The Historic Christmas Steam Train departs from the iconic São Bento Station towards Ermesinde, where the so-called “Largest Christmas Tree in the Country”, measuring over 50 meters, awaits.
The experience, which includes trips aboard a steam locomotive with luminous elves and goblins, promises enchantment and nostalgia on every journey.
📍 Location: From Porto (São Bento) to Ermesinde.
🗓️ Dates: From December 13, 2025 to January 4, 2026.
Christmas Tram
The historic Christmas Tram returns to Porto for another magical edition, inspired by the theme “Around the table”. On board this iconic vehicle, you can embark on a unique experience that mixes tradition and art, with the creative trait of Dutch artist Eva Halfers.
The initiative will include activities such as “Santa’s Ride”, “Building Wishes” and trips with “A Special Passenger”. With lights, music and memories, Christmas comes alive on the rails.
📍 Location: Lines 1 (Infante – Passeio Alegre) and 18 (Clérigos – Passeio Alegre).
🗓️ Dates: From December 3, 2025 to January 6, 2026.
Vouga Historic Train
The Vouga Historic Train – Christmas Edition is one of the most enchanting experiences of this season.
On board the old carriages towed by a historic locomotive, passengers travel from Aveiro to Macinhata do Vouga with an obligatory stop in Águeda, where the World’s Biggest and Smallest Santa Claus shine .
It’s a unique opportunity to celebrate Christmas on rails, combining tradition, lights and festive spirit in a memorable journey.
📍 Location: Aveiro, Macinhata do Vouga and Águeda.
🗓️ Dates: From December 7, 2025 to January 4, 2026 (weekends).
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