Lisbon blogs - Olá Daniela

Lisbon’s best beach day trips

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 09:21:00 +0000

A stone’s throw from Lisbon’s pastel streets lie cool surf towns, quaint fishing villages and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Pack sunscreen and a swimsuit and swap cobblestones and city buzz for soft sand and a slower pace of life with one of these Lisbon beach day trips.

From glamorous Cascais to laidback Ericeira, this article – written by someone who lives in Lisbon – is focused on great beach destinations near the capital. Lisbon’s coastline delivers a dozen different coastal moods – from boho Caparica to boujee Comporta – and these are the beach escapes locals actually head off to when the city gets hot, hot, hot.

That said, I’d also suggest these coastal destinations in the off-season, when the swell is up and the surfers are out. A crisp, blue-sky day at the beach is still a day at the beach. Crashing waves and paradise are closer than you think!

Best Lisbon beach day trip for…

First-time visitors – Cascais
Surfers – Caparica, Ericeira, Peniche or Nazaré
Nature lovers – Arrábida & Berlengas
Boujee crowd – Comporta

My definition of a day trip is anywhere I can reach by car in 20 to 90 minutes. Public transport might take slightly longer, and I’ve included the best options for each location too.

Which of these Lisbon beach day trips can you do without a car?

Without a car, the easiest beaches to reach are along the Cascais train line. You can jump on at Cais do Sodré in Lisbon, and then jump off anywhere along the line – or take it to the final station in Cascais (mentioned in detail below). All of the other destinations on this list require an Uber/Bolt, a slower city bus or a coach.

Best beaches close to Lisbon downtown

If you are just after a beach to visit while you’re visiting Lisbon, here are a few quick recommendations:

Cascais train line

Caxias Beach – Lisbon’s best closest beach by train (17min from Cais do Sodre). It has a cute little fort and beach bar.
Praia Velha – Lisbon’s closest dog-friendly beach. It’s in Paço de Arcos, which has great restaurants too.
Carcavelos beach – Lisbon’s biggest city beach – lots of restaurants, beach volleyball, surf schools.

South of the Tagus River – (I talk about the Caparica area below)

Praia de Santo António – and the other beaches in front of Costa da Caparica town are all relatively the same (small beaches divided by groynes). For that reason, I prefer…
Nova Praia – The last beach in downtown Caparica with the best beach bars and where it gets a little wilder.
Praia de São João – a great, wide beach closer to the river with top restaurants and bars.

Now, onto the best beach day trips near Lisbon…

Cascais: Chic marina, beaches and galleries

How to get to Cascais – 40-minute drive west from Lisbon, or hop on a gorgeous 50-minute train from Cais do Sodre. (It’s one of the most beautiful train journeys!). Very easy to reach from Lisbon.

A fishing village turned resort town, Cascais is the shining jewel of Lisbon’s coastline. This sophisticated seaside destination became popular with Portuguese royalty in the 19th century, and this heritage is reflected in the grand villas and museums dotted along the seafront. Head here to hop from beach to beach, explore the diverse Museum Quarter, witness the power of nature at Boca do Inferno, and wander the historic cobbled streets in search of the perfect long seafood lunch.

Things to do in Cascais

Wander the main streets of the Old Town – look up to see the grand 19th-century villas and look down for the ornate mosaic sidewalks.
Enjoy a long seafood lunch by the water. Cascais has fantastic fresh fish, and I love Portuguese seafood rice (arroz de marisco).
Go for a dip at one of the town beaches, such as Praia da Rainha.
Explore the Museum Quarter: Visit the historic Citadel of Cascais (fort); see contemporary works at the Casa das Histórias Paula Rego; and take in the view from the Santa Marta Lighthouse.
Visit Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), a dramatic cliff formation just outside of town where the Atlantic waves crash in with immense force. It’s a prime spot for sunset.
Cycle the coast for free: Grab a free ‘Bicas’ bike near the train station and follow the coastal path toward Boca do Inferno and out to Guincho.
Drive or walk around to Praia do Guincho, one of Lisbon’s most gorgeous, windswept beaches, perfect for surfing and kite-surfing.
Visit Cabo da Roca (car or bus needed), Europe’s westernmost point, for breathtaking, rugged coastal views.
Check out the Mercado da Vila (Municipal Market) for fresh local produce, fish and a vibrant atmosphere. The Saturday market is particularly good.

Ericeira: chilled out surf town

How to get to Ericeira – 40-minute drive north from Lisbon, or a slower coach bus with Mafrense from Campo Grande. Alternatively join this guided day trip that includes Mafra Palace.

If you’ve seen pictures of the whitewashed coastal architecture of Portugal, then you’ll love Ericeira. Most of the houses are white with a striking cobalt blue trim, which pops nicely in photos against the bright blue sky. Ericeira is home to Europe’s only World Surf Reserve, so this small fishing village has become a bit of a haven for surf and yoga-loving expats.

A day here might start with a fancy flat white and a yoga or surf lesson, then roll into a long, slow seafood-heavy lunch at a classic marisqueira (where you eat mostly shellfish by weight), or at the progressive and very cool Costa Fria –one of my favourite restaurants in all of Portugal. After lunch, laze on the beach and catch some sunshine or shop the old town and pause for an ouriço da Ericeira sweet with an espresso.

Things to do in Ericeira

Wander the old town and take a million photos of cute doors and cobalt-trimmed streets.
Catch a wave at the World Surf Reserve – book a lesson or BYO board and hit the break at Ribeira d’Ilhas.
Try the famous ouriço da Ericeira, a traditional local sweet named after the sea urchin.
Head to a clifftop bar like Mar das Latas for a sunset wine or cocktail overlooking the ocean.
Go for a swim or sunbake at the central and easy-to-access Praia dos Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach).
Enjoy a classic, long seafood lunch by the water at a traditional marisqueira, or go modern at the cool Costa Fria.
Skip the fancy places and eat a prego (Portuguese steak sandwich) at the old-school favourite, Taberna Lebre.
Combine your trip with a visit to the magnificent Palace of Mafra, a short drive inland, which features a vast Baroque complex. This guided day trip combines the two.

Bonus tip: On the way to Ericeira, you could pass through Mafra (mentioned below) to see its ginormous palace or wander trails in the Tapada da Mafra where you’ll see deer and wild boars.

Costa da Caparica: Lisbon’s best beaches

How to get to Costa da Caparica – 20-40 minute drive south from Lisbon, depending on which beach you want to explore. Public transport isn’t great – so it’s simpler to use a Bolt rideshare for €10-15 (use this link to get my discount code).

Costa da Caparica is almost 30 kilometres (18 miles) of ocean-facing coastline, south of Lisbon, where you’ll find the best beach clubs and most beautiful Lisbon beaches. You can reach the downtown 80s-vibe of the namesake town in as little as a 15-minute drive from the city. But the rule is simple: the further south you venture, the wilder and prettier the beaches of Costa da Caparica become, backed only by sweeping sand dunes and protected fossil cliffs.

Near the town centre, you’ll find lots of cafés, restaurants and a wide esplanade ideal for walking, running and biking. I love to come here early in the morning while my partner surfs, often seeing colourful, wooden fishing boats pulling up onto the shore. I watch as old ladies flock over with a plastic bag in hand, swapping cash for fresh fish before it hits the market. If you keep going just past the southernmost groyne, you’ll come upon some charming striped wooden fishermen’s huts tucked in the dunes.

The coast stretches from Caparica town down to Praia da Fonte da Telha. On the many beaches in between, you’ll find some of the coolest beach bars and restaurants around. If you’re after a long, lazy seafood lunch by the sea, this is the spot to kick back. In summer, look for special events and DJ parties that often start in the afternoon and go until dawn.

Things to do in Costa da Caparica

Go to the beach, anywhere between Costa da Caparica town to Fonte da Telha. Despite being long, wide and sandy, you’ll almost always find an open café or restaurant and many rent sun loungers and umbrellas.
Book in a surf lesson – consistent breaks make this the go-to spot for beginner surfers near Lisbon.
Drink sangria and watch the day slip away at a beach bar – Kailua, Inha and Irmão usually have a good vibe.
Enjoy a seafood lunch by the water – Praia Princesa is a favourite spot for grilled fish. (Book ahead!)
Hike the Paisagem Protegida da Arriba Fóssil to see the ancient, fossil-rich cliffs that stretch inland.
Visit Convento dos Capuchos, a 16th-century monastery perched on the cliffs for an amazing viewpoint.

Arrábida Natural Park: turquoise bays & limestone cliffs

How to reach Arrábida – 45-minute drive south from Lisbon, or take a train to Setúbal and then board a bus or book a water taxi, or join a guided tour (recommended if you don’t have a car).

The wild paradise of Arrábida Natural Park is one of Portugal’s most spectacular coastal reserves – a protected stretch of limestone cliffs, secret coves and forested hills that tumble down to waters so turquoise you’ll swear you’re in the Mediterranean.

Spend your day beach-hopping between Portinho da Arrábida, Praia dos Coelhos and Praia de Galápos, or lace up for a cliffside hike with sweeping views of the Tróia Peninsula and the Sado Estuary. Half the fun is on the water, so hire a kayak or board a boat to meet dolphins and snorkel among fish.

You can easily combine Arrábida with time in Setúbal, Sesimbra or Azeitão.

Things to do in Arrábida Natural Park

Beach-hop (or stay put) – Bring sneakers and a towel and spend the day exploring Portinho da Arrábida, Praia de Galápos and Praia dos Coelhos.
Hike the Serra da Arrábida trails – Lace up your boots for panoramic coastal walks through pine forest and scrub-covered hills with great views.
Enjoy a long fish lunch – My favourite spot is O Farol in Portinho da Arrábida. Message ahead to book a table!
Visit the Convento da Arrábida – A 16th-century Franciscan monastery clinging to the mountainside, with serene views over the park and ocean. Tours must be pre-booked, but are totally worth it.
Hire kayaks – Paddle along the limestone cliffs and into hidden sea caves. Local operators leave from Setúbal and Portinho da Arrábida.
Board a dolphin-watching tour – Boats from either Setúbal or Sesimbra venture into the marine park, where you can meet the best locals.
Stop at the viewpoints – Drive the winding Estrada de Escarpa road and pull over at Miradouro do Portinho da Arrábida for the best panoramas.
Go snorkelling or diving – The calm, clear waters are part of the Arrábida Marine Reserve. You’ll spot fish darting through seaweed forests just a few metres from shore.

Sesimbra: pretty fishing town with stunning beaches

How to get to Sesimbra – 40-minute drive south from Lisbon, or choose slower options with public buses from Lisbon. You could also take a ferry to Cacilhas, then catch a bus. Google Maps is your bestie.

Just over a 40-minute drive from Lisbon, the hard-working fishing village topped by an ancient castle can feel like a world away from the busy streets of the city. When I pulled up for lunch recently, the first thing I saw was a scraggly old scuba diving instructor wearing a wetsuit and smoking a pipe. Meanwhile, the fishermen’s bar nearby was overflowing with locals back from a hard morning’s work.

While it sounds rough around the edges, Sesimbra actually has more of a holiday or vacation feel to the town, just without being overly commercial. The beachfront promenade is a gorgeous spot to grab an ice cream and wander along, but not before you’ve chosen from the variety of options to eat freshly caught seafood.

Things to do in Sesimbra

Hike up to the Sesimbra Castle (Castelo de Sesimbra) above the town for amazing views of the bay and coastline.
Walk, kayak or boat to the spectacular Praia do Ribeiro do Cavalo, often considered one of Portugal’s most beautiful hidden coves. It’s not an easy hike down, so book a taxi boat if in doubt.
Or just pop up an umbrella at the central beaches, Praia do Ouro or Praia da Califórnia, known for their calm, clear and family-friendly waters.
Drop into the Municipal Mercado to discover the catch-of-the-day and what’s in season.
Sesimbra is a renowned diving and snorkelling hub. Book an excursion to explore the underwater world of the Luiz Saldanha Marine Park in the nearby Arrábida Natural Park.
You can also jet off on a dolphin-watching excursion to meet the best locals.
Enjoy a serious long seafood lunch – Sesimbra has some of the freshest fish in the country.

Combine Sesimbra with…. exploring the UNESCO World Biosphere of Arrábida Natural Park, it’s neighbour! Or, on the way there, stop in Azeitão for a wine tasting at José Maria da Fonseca or Quinta da Bacalhôa, famous for their Moscatel dessert wine. Another great detour is Cabo Espichel, a dramatic cliff-top sanctuary nearby, where you can see fossilised dinosaur footprints visible on the rock faces.

Read next… Tile of the day: Sesimbra

Sintra: secret coast of wild beaches & mist

How to reach Sintra’s beaches – 45-minute drive from Lisbon. You’ll need a car (public transport doesn’t reach most beaches). Bring layers for Sintra’s cooler microclimate.

Just beyond the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra lies an entirely different kingdom – one where shifting tides, Atlantic mist and dramatic cliffs rule. The rugged coastal edge of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park hides stretches of barely-touched sandy coves that are raw and a little wild.

There are half a dozen beaches to explore. Start at Praia da Adraga, a cinematic cove framed by towering sea stacks, or try Praia Grande, a huge sweep of sand with a 100m-long saltwater pool. Praia das Maçãs (Apple Beach) has a small seaside village vibe, with cafés, a surf school and a tram that occasionally runs down from Sintra town. Further north, Praia das Azenhas do Mar has a small tidal pool.

Things to do on Sintra’s Coast

Hike down to Praia da Ursa – One of Portugal’s most spectacular wild beaches, backed by jagged cliffs and sea stacks shaped like a bear (ursa). It’s a steep 30-minute hike.
Watch the waves at Praia da Adraga – A photographer’s dream with dark cliffs and wild Atlantic energy. The oceanfront seafood restaurant is excellent.
Take the tram from Sintra village to Praia das Maçãs – A laid-back seaside village where locals come to surf, swim and eat. It’s a cute vintage tram ride through nature!
Catch the sunset at Azenhas do Mar – A postcard-perfect cliffside village where whitewashed houses tumble down toward a natural seawater pool carved into the rocks.
Visit Europe’s westernmost point, Cabo da Roca – A bucket-list item for many.
Explore the trails of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park – The beach is too windy? Venture inland to find trails.

Berlengas Islands & Peniche: Raw, rocky islands and a surf town

How to reach Peniche – 75-minute drive north from Lisbon, or take a 90-minute Rede Expressos coach from Sete Rios. Boat trips to Berlengas leave from Peniche (pre-booking recommended).

A day trip to the Berlengas Islands is real Portuguese bucket-list material. These are some of the only islands off the continental Portuguese coast, and this tiny archipelago is a protected nature reserve known for its raw, rocky landscape and stunning turquoise waters. During the summer months, you can easily jump on a half-day boat trip out there to see the famous historic fortress and the caves.

You’ll set off for the islands from Peniche, a very relaxed seaside town about 75 minutes north of Lisbon. This entire region, known as the Oeste (West), is a paradise of seafood, sunshine and epic surf – but be aware that it is also prone to fog, especially in the mornings. In Peniche town, round out your day with a visit to the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom within the old fort or explore the beach at Supertubos or Baleal.

Things to do in Peniche and the Berlengas Islands

Catch a ferry or speed boat from Peniche to Berlenga Grande, the main island. A handful of companies offer the same service. (Book ahead!)
On Berlenga Grande, walk across the stone causeway to explore the famous Fort of São João Batista, take a small boat tour into caves, hike island trails, or laze at the only beach during your 3-4 hours on the island.
In Peniche, drive around the scenic headland of Cabo Carvoeiro to check out the dramatic cliffs, lighthouse and the beautiful Nossa Senhora dos Remédios sanctuary.
Spend time at the National Museum of Resistance and Freedom, located within the imposing old fort, a former political prison (free for Portuguese residents).
This coast is home to world-class surf. Watch professionals catch a wave at the famous Supertubos beach (known for its powerful, barrel-shaped waves) or visit the beautiful, smaller peninsula of Baleal.
Peniche is a working fishing port. If you’re there in the morning, explore the Mercado de Municipal or just head straight for lunch at legendary Tasca do Joel or the more chill A Sardinha.

Comporta: boujee beach escape

How to reach Comporta – 75-90-minute drive south from Lisbon. You’ll need a private car or transfer.

Just over an hour south of Lisbon, Comporta is a long, laid-back stretch of coast where rice fields, pine forests and little villages meet endless dunes where the Atlantic rolls in. Starting at the southern edge of the Tróia Peninsula, the villages of Comporta have gained an international reputation for delivering barefoot luxury to the jet-set crowd. Artists, architects and designers have descended on a few sleepy fishing villages to build private resorts, restore thatched cabanas and open concept stores.

Admittedly, Comporta’s beaches are gorgeous – but lunch on the sand here now comes with a luxury pricetag. It probably won’t shock Europeans with stronger economies, and you can still dine at cheaper, local restaurants tucked in villages off the beach. While here, you could spend the morning riding horses through the rice paddies and pine forests or spotting flamingos, storks and even dolphins in the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, one of Portugal’s richest wetland ecosystems.

Stop for lunch, then claim a spot on Praia da Comporta, Praia do Carvalhal or Praia do Pego. Late in the afternoon, go shopping in Comporta village, where you’ll find dozens of boutiques and little galleries.

Things to do in Comporta

Relax on Praia da Comporta, a vast, pristine beach with soft sand and turquoise water.
Ride horses through the rice paddies and pine forests, and over dunes onto the beach.
Go birdwatching – flamingos, herons and storks are common sightings in the wetlands.
Lunch by the sea at Sal or Comporta Café, or try Dona Bia for Portuguese flavours.
Shop the chic boutiques and design stores that make Comporta famous for its understated style.
Add the Tróia Peninsula, where you can visit Roman ruins or go dolphin-watching.

Nazaré: big waves, 7 skirts & sun-dried seafood

How to reach Nazaré – 90-minute drive north from Lisbon, or more like 2 hours with a Rede Expressos coach.

The once-sleepy seaside town of Nazaré has two main seasons. While people have always flocked here for the striped beach huts, grilled sardines and racks of seafood drying in the summer sunshine, now the coastal town is world-famous for its record-breaking winter waves, which draw big-wave surfers from across the globe. But beyond the surf, Nazaré keeps its old soul – a whitewashed fishing town where elderly women often still wear the town’s traditional seven-layered skirts.

The town sits in two parts. Praia da Nazaré is the lower, main beachfront strip, lined with restaurants and cafés. Ride the funicular up to the Sítio district on the cliff above to find epic views from the Miradouro do Suberco, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré (a pilgrimage site since the 14th century) and the dramatic Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo. From the fort, you can see the famous Praia do Norte, home to the Nazaré Canyon, a deep underwater trench that amplifies Atlantic swells into waves over 30 metres high (100 feet). In 2011, surfer Garrett McNamara rode his world-record wave, putting Nazaré on the global surf map.

Things to do in Nazaré

Watch the waves at Praia do Norte, best viewed from the Fort of São Miguel Arcanjo or the upper cliffs. Check the radar for big wave alerts – the best chances are between October and March, but if there’s no alert, expect to see almost flat ocean!
Ride the funicular from the beachfront up to Sítio for sweeping views and historic landmarks.
Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Nazaré, with its richly tiled interior and centuries-old devotion legend.
Explore traditional fishing culture – look for colourful wooden boats on the beach and women selling dried fish in summer.
Stroll along Praia da Nazaré and stop for a sweet or lunch at one of the cafés or seafood restaurants.
Check out the Nazaré Canyon Interpretation Centre at the fort for a quick dive into the science behind the giant waves. It’s crazy what lies beneath the ocean surface!

Let me know in the comments if you went on any beach day trips from Lisbon – I’d love to hear about your highlights!

More Lisbon day trip ideas

The post Lisbon’s best beach day trips appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Best day trips from Lisbon for history lovers

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:12:40 +0000

While Lisbon is a history-lover’s dream to explore, some of Portugal’s richest stories lie just beyond the city limits. Within an hour or so, you can wander medieval walled towns, stand before Roman ruins, trace the path of the Knights Templar, or get lost among the turrets of pastel palaces.

I’ve lived in Lisbon since 2018, and below I’ve shared my favourite tips and ideas for where to go on a day trip from Lisbon – plus I have published deeper guides for a lot of these Portuguese destinations. Have a scroll and take your pick – whether you’re into royal romance, sacred sites or secret stone circles, you’ll step through history on one of these easy, top day trips from Lisbon.

My definition of a day trip is anywhere I can reach by car in 20 to 90 minutes. Public transport might take slightly longer, and I’ve included the best options for each location too.

Which of these Lisbon day trips can you do without a car?

No car, no worries – a lot of these historic destinations are well connected to Lisbon by train, or otherwise, there may be a public bus or Rede Expressos coach. From Lisbon, the train will easily reach Sintra, Évora, Tomar and Vila Franca de Xira.

Map of Lisbon’s best day trip destinations

Read my complete Lisbon day trips guide here or dive into Lisbon’s best beach day trips

Sintra: Palaces, a Moorish castle & mountain magic

How to reach Sintra – 30-minute drive west from Lisbon, or 40-minute train from Rossio Station (I don’t recommend driving if you just visit the historic village).

There’s something mystical about Sintra, a historic mountain village filled with grand palaces and topped with an ancient 10th-century castle. Once a summer playground for the rich during the 19th century, the romance of a bygone era is still alive here, and it’s fun to dress up and wander about palace halls. You’ll have no shortage of those: from Pena Palace to Monserrate to Quinta da Regaleira to the National Palace.

Equally, Sintra’s micro-climate makes the mountain an interesting place to explore. Giant boulders covered in green moss and off-road tracks offer a different kind of exploring on this top day trip from Lisbon.

But take note – this is Lisbon’s most popular day trip, and some palaces have timed entry tickets. A day trip to Sintra requires prior planning. I have two in-depth guides to help: a 1-day Sintra itinerary, and a list of 30+ cool things to do in the region.

There are two ways to explore Sintra. You can take the train from Rossio or Sete Rios stations (driving is not recommended) and stroll through the historic village and visit the palaces nearby. Or you can extend the fun to explore nature – crossing Sintra-Cascais Natural Park to reach the ocean at Cabo da Roca (Europe’s westernmost point), take in some viewpoints and visit beaches.

If you’re visiting from abroad, I highly suggest joining a small-group or private guided tour for this – my picks are a private tour with Fernando (book via GetYourGuide or go direct and say I sent you!) or a small-group off-road tour with the fun guys at FlaminGO who have an army of vintage UMM jeeps.

Best things to do in Sintra

Hike or bus up to the yellow-and-red fairytale Pena Palace to explore its fantastical gardens (requires pre-booked, timed tickets if you want to see inside).
Wander the walls of the ancient Moorish Castle and uncover the underground tunnels and Initiation Well at Quinta da Regaleira or half a dozen other palaces (seriously, no shortage of palaces here).
Eat a travesseiro de Sintra from the most famous bakery, Piriquita
Extend your trip to cross the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park and reach Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.
Discover the rugged Atlantic beaches like Praia Grande or the stunning sea-pool village of Azenhas do Mar.
Go for an off-road small-group Jeep adventure with the fun guys at FlaminGO Experiences.
Carry a jacket or light sweater at all times – Sintra’s micro-climate means it can be cold and foggy even when Lisbon is sunny.

Óbidos: medieval walled village from a picturebook

How to reach Óbidos – 1-hour drive north from Lisbon, or take an express bus called the Rapida Verde (the regional train takes more than two hours).

Imagine receiving a small walled city as a wedding gift? Portugal’s King Dinis gave Queen Isabel the little village of Óbidos to mark their wedding back in 1282. This super cute medieval walled city is just over an hour north, making it one of the best day trips from Lisbon.

Wander inside the fortified walls and you’ll find a Portuguese village of typical white-washed buildings with yellow or blue trims. Usually, you can also climb the stone walls and cut most of a lap around the town. If you have time, explore deeper with a walking tour that reveals secret spots and medieval tales.

While in Obidos, be sure to taste the local liqueur, ginjinha – made from the ginja sour cherry. It’s one of Portugal’s most famous, and you can drink it from a tiny and delicious chocolate cup.

Sleep in the castle: This gem is a popular day trip from Lisbon, so if you want to see the village without the crowds, consider sleeping in the 14th-century castle for your own royal moment. The Pousada Castelo de Obidos is a dream stay! If it’s out of the budget, Óbidos has plenty of cute guesthouses.

Things to do in Óbidos

Walk around the medieval village and castle walls. The full lap is 1.5km. Right by the entrance, if the staircase is open, you can just go for it at your own peril! (There are no safety railings.)
Stop by a window to taste ginjinha liqueur, a traditional drink from the village.
Get lost in the narrow, winding streets of the whitewashed village within the walls. Admire the bright blue and yellow trim on the houses and the care locals take by adding cute flower pots.
Pause at the magnificent Porta da Vila (main gate), which is famously lined with beautiful 18th-century blue and white tile panels (azulejos) that depict the Passion of Christ.
In the main square, visit the beautiful Church of Santa Maria (Igreja de Santa Maria), built over a former mosque and known for its richly decorated interior and historical importance.

Guided day trip from Lisbon: If you have a few days in Lisbon, Óbidos makes for a good day trip. Take a look at this top-rated guided tour that combines the walled village with the towns of Fátima, Batalha and Nazaré.

Read next… Lisbon’s best beach day trips

Évora: Roman temple, wine & a bone chapel

How to reach Évora – 90-minute drive or train south-east from Lisbon. Note: for a day trip, the last train back to Lisbon often leaves quite early! Better to do an overnight stay by train.

Located about a 90-minute drive or train ride east of Lisbon, Évora is the magnificent, UNESCO-listed capital of the Alentejo region. A living time capsule, the whitewashed city centre is steeped in history, bearing the marks of Roman, Moorish and medieval influences – and yet the small yellow-toned city pulses with a youthful energy, thanks to its historic university.

Personally, I think Évora deserves a full weekend itinerary to soak up history and enjoy the Alentejo’s famously relaxed, slow pace. But it’s only a 1.5-hour drive, so you can dash out there for a day trip from Lisbon.

Things to do in Évora

Visit the legendary Bone Chapel (Capela dos Ossos) – one of Portugal’s most striking and solemn sights. Located next to the Church of St. Francis, the chapel’s walls and columns are lined entirely with the skulls and bones of over 5,000 human remains.
Admire the Roman Temple – the 1st century AD relic is set on the highest hill with Corinthian-style columns.
Climb onto the roof of the largest cathedral in Portugal. A winding staircase leads to the best panoramic views over the city’s terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Alentejo plains.
Seek out the 16th-century Água de Prata Aqueduct that runs for over 18 kilometres, portions of which are famously built directly into the structure of houses within the city walls.
Feast on Alentejo cuisine – you always eat so well in this region, one of my favourites for dining out. Enjoy a traditional, long lunch at an institution like O Fialho or Botequim da Mouraria.
Look beyond the pastel de nata and try Évora’s traditional convent sweets (doces conventuais). Look for Pão de Rala (stuffed almond cake) or Sericaia (a fluffy sponge cake).
Those Alentejo plains produce bold, tannin-heavy reds. Stop to sample local wines at Enoteca Cartuxa, or venture out to a vineyard like Herdade do Esporão or Fitapreta for a cellar door experience and lunch.
Visit the Cromlech of the Almendres: Just outside the city, explore one of Europe’s largest collections of standing stones, a fascinating Neolithic site that pre-dates Stonehenge.

Read next… Évora is so much fun, and I have some in-depth guides with more ideas for things to do, where to shop, where to eat and how to spend 48 hours in the small city.

Tomar: Follow the trail of the Knights Templar

How to reach Tomar – 90-minute drive north of Lisbon, or the train takes two hours from Santa Apolónia Station.

Tomar, a city steeped in the legends of the Knights Templar, is a cool inland destination located about a 90-minute drive north of Lisbon. It holds a unique place in Portugal’s history as the city was founded by the Grand Master of the Knights Templar, Gualdim Pais, in 1160 to serve as their headquarters. When the Templars were suppressed across Europe, they simply rebranded in Portugal as the Order of Christ and continued their influence, notably supporting Portugal’s famous Age of Discoveries (with Prince Henry the Navigator as their Grand Master).

There’s soooo much history and beauty to explore here, and while you can cross most of it off in a day, I’d recommend this one as a weekend trip too.

Things to do in Tomar

Explore the Convent of Christ and Templar Castle – this UNESCO World Heritage site is the single most important reason to visit Tomar. Give yourself at least two hours to explore the sprawling complex, which includes the iconic circular chapel (Charola), pictured above, and the extraordinary Manueline Window, carved with maritime motifs.
Step through Tomar’s Old Town, including the central Praça da República with its 16th-century town hall and the Igreja de São João Baptista church.
Walk atop the jaw-dropping 16th-century Pegões Altos Aqueduct, a five-minute drive outside town (again, no railing, so be careful).
Escape the heat at the peaceful river island park, Mouchão Park, surrounded by the Nabão River.
For something unique, visit the Museu dos Fósforos (Matchbox Museum), housed in the old convent, which holds Europe’s largest collection of matchboxes – more than 60,000 of them!
Pop into Tomar’s many free museums – there are loads to explore, including an arts centre in an old flour factory.

Read next… Best day trips from Tomar

Mafra: mega palace, wolves & wild boars

How to get to Mafra – 35-minute drive north from Lisbon, or catch a coach with Mafrense from Campo Grande.

Sometimes I remember facts that truly have little value, like this one: Palácio Nacional de Mafra is home to Europe’s longest palatial corridor. The 232-metre-long gallery is just one of the many outsized features of this Baroque giant – an architectural 18th-century statement built by King João V when Portugal’s gold-rich colonies were at their height. Completed in 1755, it has more than 1,200 rooms, 156 stairways and a library considered one of the most beautiful in Europe, filled with over 36,000 leather-bound volumes plus bats.

Exploring the palace and its basilica will only take you half a day, so spend the other half in nature at Tapada Nacional de Mafra, the former royal hunting ground established in 1747. This vast, forested park is now a protected reserve with trails where deer, wild boar, and foxes roam freely among cork oaks and pines. Nearby is the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre (Centro de Recuperação do Lobo Ibérico) – a sanctuary dedicated to protecting and rehabilitating the endangered native wolves of Portugal and Spain (book visits in advance).

Or organise a wine tasting or picnic at Quinta de Sant’Ana, a family-run estate just outside Mafra that produces elegant, small-batch wines amid rolling hills. You can combine Mafra with the charming surf town of Ericeira, just 15 minutes away (mentioned above).

Things to do in Mafra

Wander the halls of Palácio Nacional de Mafra, taking time to visit the library, basilica, and the 232-metre corridor.
Organise a wine tasting or picnic at Quinta Sant’ana.
Lunch at Adega do Convento, a cosy spot serving hearty Portuguese dishes near the palace.
Walk the trails of Tapada Nacional de Mafra. Keep an eye out for wild boar and deer.
Visit the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre, a sanctuary devoted to the conservation of Iberian wolves (advance booking required).
Combine Mafra with a day trip to Ericeira, for beaches, surf and seafood with Atlantic views. This guided day trip combines the two.

Fátima: a sanctuary of faith

How to reach Fátima – 80-minute drive north from Lisbon, or a direct Rede Expressos coach from Sete Rios.

FFátima is one of the most significant Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world, drawing millions of visitors annually. This is the location where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. While the site is a major cultural and religious landmark for believers, there’s not much else to the town that may pique your interest. Plus, once you leave the new and old basilicas, you’re met with religious gift shops that detract from the spirit.

Day trip tip: I’d suggest combining a visit to Fátima with a side quest to somewhere nearby. Depending on your interests, you could continue the religious theme at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Mosteiro da Batalha (Batalha Monastery), or bounce over to Nazaré for seaside vibes and (potentially) mega waves. You can also combine Fátima with a visit to Óbidos, Caldas da Rainha or Tomar.

Things to do in Fátima

Visit the Chapel of the Apparitions (Capelinha das Aparições) – a small, simple chapel at the heart of the sanctuary built on the exact spot where the Virgin Mary appeared.
Explore the neo-baroque Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary (which holds the tombs of the three shepherd children) and the modern, immense Basilica of the Holy Trinity (one of the largest Catholic churches in the world).
Time your visit to join a candlelit procession – the biggest dates are May 13 and October 13. Expect big crowds.

Caldas da Rainha: creative city of ceramics

How to reach Caldas da Rainha – 70-minute drive from Lisbon, or 80-minute bus with Rede Expressos.

There’s something romantic about Caldas da Rainha, a charming and artistic small city in the centre of Portugal. Maybe it’s the leafy Parque Dom Carlos I with its elegant lakes and the 19th-century thermal hospital that gave the city its name. Queen Leonor, who discovered the curative sulphur springs in 1484, ordered a hospital to be built for the sick and poor. Now, Caldas remains the oldest thermal town in the world still in operation.

If not the park and thermal water, maybe it’s the Art Nouveau and Art Deco façades that line Caldas da Rainha’s boulevards, or the whimsical ceramics of Rafael Bordallo Pinheiro, whose humorous and surreal pieces helped shape the city’s creative soul. Either way, it’s easy to spend a day here exploring the mix of spa heritage, ceramic artistry and small-town charm before unwinding at Foz do Arelho, where the Óbidos Lagoon meets the Atlantic.

Things to do in Caldas da Rainha

Stroll through Parque Dom Carlos I, a peaceful green heart once reserved for spa patients. Wander its shaded paths, feed the ducks, and if you’re feeling romantic, hire a paddle boat on the ornamental lake.
Follow the Bordallo Pinheiro trail, a self-guided walk through the city that reveals the artist’s legacy – from giant ceramic frogs, cabbages and sardines scattered across town.
Buy ceramics at the Bordallo Pinheiro factory outlet. You can find seconds and bargains on the top floor, above the store.
Pay a visit to the Museu do Ce râmica, housed in a graceful 19th-century mini-mansion surrounded by gardens. Inside, you’ll find centuries of Portuguese pottery.
Lose yourself in the city’s art scene, with half a dozen small galleries, museums and craft studios showcasing local contemporary artists.
Shop at the daily farmers’ market at Praça da República, one of Portugal’s largest open-air markets. Come early (7am–3pm) to browse stalls overflowing with local produce, cheese and flowers – Saturday and Monday are best.
Admire the 17th-century azulejos (tiles) decorating the tiny Ermida de São Sebastião.
Explore the curious Jardim de Água, a surreal ceramic park created by sculptor Ferreira da Silva over the course of a decade.
End your day at Foz do Arelho, a wide sandy beach where the calm lagoon waters meet the surf of the Atlantic – ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or sunset watching.

Vila Franca de Xira: birdwatching and bullfighting traditions

How to get to Vila Franca de Xira – 30-minute drive north from Lisbon, or 23-minute train from Santa Apolonia Station.

Vila Franca de Xira is a small riverside town just 30 minutes north of Lisbon by train, set along the Tejo (Tagus) River. Though often overlooked (few tourists venture here), the historic core is charming (especially the market hall), and it has a distinct identity rooted in bullfighting traditions. Start with a stroll along the riverfront promenade, where you can get coffee or watch locals fish, then visit the azulejo-covered Mercado Municipal to admire the tile panels and shop for local produce.

In the 21st century, bullfighting is a controversial topic, but for Vila Franca de Xira, the tradition is core to its identity. The town’s early 20th-century bullring still hosts events, particularly during Colete Encarnado (the “Red Waistcoat Festival”) each July (expect parades, music, bull runs). Around town, you’ll see statues, posters, murals and the Casa-Museu Mário Coelho celebrating this heritage. Fortunately, in Portugal, the bull is not killed in the arena – but still, the sport uses animals for entertainment.

Vila Franca sits where the Tagus begins to widen into the Ribatejo estuary, a landscape of wetlands and fields that attracts flamingos, storks, and herons. If you’re into birdwatching or quiet nature escapes, it could be a peaceful escape.

Things to do in Vila Franca de Xira

To market, to market: don’t miss the amazing azulejos (tiles) on the Mercado Municipal.
Admire the azulejos at the train station too, where you’ll see scenes of life in the town.
Relax by the riverfront, with cafés, benches and views across the Tagus estuary.
Wander through town, taking notice of the historic links to bullfighting: the statues, posters, murals.
If you’re interested, visit the Casa-Museu Mário Coelho to learn about a famous bullfighter.
Explore the Museum of Neo-Realism, which showcases Portugal’s socially engaged art and literature of the 20th century.

Looking for more Lisbon day trips? Read my complete Lisbon day trips guide

Read next…

The post Best day trips from Lisbon for history lovers appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Where to stay in Lisbon: Best neighbourhoods & hotels

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Mon, 26 May 2025 09:04:00 +0000

Lisbon – it’s a city of cobbled streets, clattering trams, tiled façades, and surreal light that I currently call home. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, choosing where to stay in Lisbon can feel a little overwhelming – not because of a lack of good options, but because each neighbourhood has its own personality.

The good news? Lisbon is fairly compact and walkable, so wherever you stay, you’ll be well-connected with your next adventure just around the bend (or more likely, over the hill). The bad news? Lisbon is a historic city with lots of hills, so your hotel might be up a cobblestone staircase, or your apartment might lack heating, cooling and an elevator. Plus, the colourful Portuguese capital is firmly on the tourist radar, so expect big crowds at the most popular sights and locations.

I’ve lived in Lisbon since 2018, so I know the city like the back of my hand. At the top of this guide, I’ll give you some quick recommendations for top neighbourhoods and my pick of 5- and 4-star hotels. Then, if you have more time, I’ll describe the best areas to stay in Lisbon – from relaxed leafy neighbourhoods to buzzing downtown hotels. I’ll tell you where to stay if you’re here for the food, history, or nightlife – and where to avoid if you like a good night’s sleep.

Let’s find your Lisbon home.

Heading to the Algarve too? Where to stay in the Algarve

Quick guide to Lisbon’s neighbourhoods

I’ll describe each of these neighbourhoods in depth and give hotel suggestions below.

Baixa & Chiado – Central, historic, and walkable. Great for first-timers who want to be in the middle of it all
Príncipe Real – Leafy, stylish, and a little bougie. A real neighbourhood feel with great restaurants, city views, and chic boutiques
Alfama – Old-world charm, tight winding alleys, evenings of Fado music. Plenty of charm and history
Bairro Alto – This historic neighbourhood is super charming, but go for hotels on the fringes to avoid the party streets. Check reviews for noise complaints before booking.
Avenida da Liberdade – Wide boulevard with luxe hotels. Popular with business travellers and luxury shoppers
Santos & São Bento – two chic neighbourhoods with bookshops, charming streets, and cool bars for after dark
Anjos & Intendente – Cool, creative neighbourhoods with natural wine bars, hip restaurants, a younger crowd, and a mix of locals and internationals
Belém – Quiet riverside packed with history. A quieter base – ideal for families, museum lovers, or those with a car
Avenidas Novas – The “new avenues” where you’ll find new-build hotels and more of a 20th-century business district

Map of where to stay in Lisbon

A note on choosing your accommodation: Lisbon is experiencing overtourism and a housing crisis, with locals being driven out of the city due to high rental prices. If you can, choose to stay in hotels or larger guesthouses over apartments.

My 5-star hotel picks in Lisbon

Bairro Alto Hotel – Central 5-star Lisbon stay where historic digs meet contemporary design. Great rooftop terrace, top breakfast with the best pastel de nata, and an excellent restaurant, BAHR. Received one ‘Michelin Key’ in 2025
Memmo Príncipe Real – Sleek, minimalist design in a local neighbourhood with panoramic views over the city. Quiet and stylish
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon – Lisbon classic with grand views and a rooftop running track. A splurge-worthy 5-star stay for timeless glamour. Received two ‘Michelin Keys’ in 2025
Torel Palace (pictured below) – Dreamy 5-star historic hotel with sweeping Lisbon views, Michelin dining, and a leafy outlook
The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – Think spacious suites with kitchenettes, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views, and a relaxing spa in lively Bairro Alto

Read next… 48 hours in Lisbon

My 4-star hotel picks in Lisbon

Hotel da Baixa – Boutique 4-star gem in Baixa neighbourhood, close to Rossio train station, high street shopping, Praça do Comércio, and Lisbon’s main sights
Lumen Hotel & The Lisbon Light Show – Modern hotel in the easy-to-access Avenidas Novas area, with an immersive light show in the central courtyard each night, and a rooftop pool for sunny days
Memmo Alfama Hotel – Surprise 4-star gem with a stunning pool terrace in a quiet location in historic Alfama
H10 Duque de Loulé – Restored historic building near Marquês de Pombal with a chic, Mediterranean-inspired rooftop bar with amazing views
1908 Lisboa Hotel – A restored Art Nouveau building close to top historic sights, hip nightlife, and natural wine bars

➼ Want to ask a local? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help people cut through the noise and plan their perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more her

Where to stay: best neighbourhoods in Lisbon

Baixa & Chiado – Great for first-timers

Ideal for: First-timers and anyone who wants to wake up with Lisbon literally on their doorstep.

Vibe: You’re in Lisbon’s pastel-coloured heart. Think grand plazas, symmetrical streets, and all the downtown shopping you could wish for. These two neighbourhoods are often paired together – Baixa (meaning ‘low’) is a flat neighbourhood with well-priced hotels in the heart, while Chiado is up the hill and a little more high-end.

Chiado is home to some of the best shopping in Lisbon, with a mix of high-street brands and Portuguese labels. It’s a spot to pick up locally made rugs at Burel and Portuguese souvenirs with heart at A Vida Portuguesa. You’ll also find four of the best pastel de nata shops, which I’ve detailed here.

Baixa, jammed between the hills and big plazas, was once filled with traditional commerce – think jewellers and haberdashery. And, while you’ll still find some of these, nowadays it’s more hotels, restaurants, ramen bars and trendy brunch spots. Overall, expect a bustling mix of charm and seriously good people-watching.

Sightseeing highlights: In Baixa, you can explore the expansive, yellow-hued Praça do Comércio, admire the Rua Augusta Arch, and snap a picture of the historic Santa Justa Lift. See the May jacarandas around Rossio Square, or find a market in Praça da Figueira. In Chiado, take a selfie with a bronze Fernando Pessoa outside the historic A Brasileira café, explore the Carmo Convent ruins, and buy a book at Livraria Bertrand, the world’s oldest operating bookshop.

Pros:

Right in the middle of everything (and I mean everything)
Easy to get around with public transport links (metro, tram, bus)
Historic architecture and famous sights close by
Endless choice of cafés, bookshops, boutiques, and restaurants

Cons:

Not much of a “local” neighbourhood feel, more inner-city vibe
Busy and can be noisy with street performers, suitcase wheels, and constant traffic and people
Lots of one-way streets to navigate in a taxi or Uber/Bolt

Where to stay in Baixa

Tesoura da Baixa by Shiadu – Charming boutique hotel set across two 19th-century Pombaline buildings
My Story Hotel Figueira – Clean, compact, 4-star, and right on one of the prettiest squares with a bit of personality. Some rooms have castle views!
Hotel da Baixa – Stylish 4-star stay in the heart of the city
Hotel Santa Justa – 4-star hotel with modern interiors and an unbeatable location next to the famous elevator and close to Rossio train station
Be Poet Baixa Hotel – Friendly 3-star modern hotel in the city centre
Hotel Mundial – A classic 4-star Lisbon stay with one of Lisbon’s best rooftop bars (hello, sunset drinks) and trams right outside the door

Read next… Where to eat in Baixa, Lisbon

Where to stay in Chiado

The Ivens, Autograph Collection – Bold, luxurious 5-star stay with airy rooms and maximalist common areas. Bonus: one of Lisbon’s most popular hotel restaurants, Rocco
Bairro Alto Hotel – Five-star views, a dreamy rooftop restaurant, and interiors that straddle Lisbon tradition and contemporary cool
Lisboa Pessoa Hotel – 4-star literary Lisbon in hotel form. Quiet, cosy, and home to one of the city’s best little rooftops. Family friends stayed here as it has private parking
Lisbon Carmo Hotel – Boutique stay close to the Carmo Convent ruins
Nicola Rossio Hotel – Chic stay with friendly staff between the best of Chiado and Baixa
The Visionaire Apartments – Spacious, design-forward apartments perfect for longer stays with style
Pousada de Lisboa – Grand, historic luxury 5-star hotel with serious charm and a killer location on the main waterfront square. Received one ‘Michelin Key’ in 2025
Dear Lisbon – Charming House – Tucked away but central, with 19 individually styled rooms and serious B&B charm

Príncipe Real – for the leafy neighbourhood vibe

Ideal for: A colourful neighbourhood vibe with cool concept stores, great dining, and leafy parks.

Vibe: Príncipe Real is a beautiful, central neighbourhood with soul. It’s filled with elegant 19th-century mansions, rainbow-colored apartments, lush green spaces, antique shops, and design-forward boutiques.

You’ll find a local crowd of Lisboetas sipping natural wine on sun-drenched terraces and shopping for treasures. It’s walkable to Bairro Alto, Chiado and Avenida da Liberdade, but it feels like its own quiet little bubble of calm.

Sightseeing highlights: It’s more about the vibe than the monuments. Here you can sit in a kiosk on the edge of the Jardim do Príncipe Real, stop by the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for gorgeous views, and shop along the main street where you can’t miss the Embaixada, a neo-Moorish palace turned mini mall of independent brands.

Pros:

Gorgeous, leafy streets and romantic, pastel-coloured buildings
Excellent boutique shopping and local concept stores
A more local vibe while still being close to downtown
LGBTQIA+ friendly and progressive energy
Great restaurants and wine bars

Cons:

Uphill from everything – the main street is set on a ridge
More upscale, so hotels fetch a higher price

Where to stay in Príncipe Real

Memmo Príncipe Real – A sleek 5-star hideaway with a secret entrance, outdoor infinity pool, and serious style points
1869 Príncipe Real – Boutique, homely hotel in heritage digs with parquet floors, antique azulejos, and warm service
Hotel das Amoreiras – A 4-star newcomer with Parisian elegance and views of a leafy garden square
Casa do Príncipe – Romantic and regal 19th-century boutique guesthouse with big bay windows overlooking the park
Hotel Alegria – 3-star affordable boutique hotel with charming heritage features, just off Avenida da Liberdade
Casa de Sao Mamede Hotel – 3-star stay on the main street of Príncipe Real with heritage features and quirks
Casa do Jasmim by Shiadu – A leafy, affordable guesthouse with boho interiors and warm local service

Alfama – for charming cobblestone lanes

Ideal for: Romantics and history lovers seeking Lisbon’s older side.

Vibe: Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood – a tangled maze of cobbled alleys where hanging laundry and the soulful echo of fado music fill the narrow streets. While these days, you’ll find more guesthouses than local families, it still charms with winding streets, cats napping in the sun, and postcard-worthy photos around every corner.

But the real magic of Alfama is in the aimless wandering. Get gloriously lost in its backstreets, find hidden miradouros, and uncover a perfect little tasca with grilled sardines and cold vinho verde. It’s a place to just follow your heart, letting yourself get lost in the wild maze of historic streets. Keep an eye out for old ladies selling ginjinha liqueur, hidden elevators, and fado clubs.

Sightseeing highlights: There’s the Castelo de São Jorge atop the hill, for sweeping views over the city and the Tagus River, and the Sé Cathedral, the city’s oldest Gothic church. My favourite lookout in Lisbon is Miradouro de Santa Luzia, which has beautiful tiles, blooming bougainvilleas, and acoustic buskers most afternoons. Pop into Museu do Fado to learn more about the music genre. From then on, it’s all about getting lost – just stumble around to see what you can find.

Pros:

Very atmospheric and full of character, despite the suburb being a tourist magnet
Walkable to many of Lisbon’s top sights
The best place to experience fado music in Lisbon

Cons:

Lots of stairs and steep cobbled streets – not ideal for heavy luggage with wheels or mobility issues
Limited public transport
Can feel crowded and touristy during the day

Where to stay in Alfama

Santiago de Alfama – Elegant, romantic, and perched just below the castle with 5-star services. Received one ‘Michelin Key’ in 2025
Memmo Alfama Hotel – Rooftop pool, red-and-white decor, and views for days at this 4-star stay
Solar do Castelo – Set inside the castle walls with peacocks and garden courtyards. Lots of charm, but it is tricky to get cars into the castle zone
Hotel Convento do Salvador – Affordable and renovated 3-star stay, and just a few minutes from the best viewpoints
Tandem Palacio Alfama Suites – 27 suites with a kitchen, laundry room and living area, plus an outdoor pool with views of the Pantheon

Bairro Alto – gritty, fun and a little wild

Ideal for: Night owls and party people.

Vibe: This residential neighbourhood above Chiado is a place of contradictions. By day, it’s a quiet and charming grid of skinny, colourful streets to explore – I love taking my camera here as every corner is a postcard, and the light bounces beautifully off the glazed tile buildings.

But after dark? Every door opens to reveal tiny bars. It’s a cheap, cheerful place to drink, where students, bachelor parties and younger locals gather to knock back Super Bock beers and jumbo caipirinha cocktails in plastic cups.

The party shuts down by 2am, when revellers filter down to Cais de Sodré clubs – but you’ll want to choose your hotel wisely. The bars are limited to just a couple of streets, so if you’re on the fringe, you’ll be able to sleep at night. Basically: read the reviews!

Sightseeing highlights: Bairro Alto itself isn’t packed with sights, but just nearby, you’ll find a handful. Walk to Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara for one of the best views in the city. Next to that, ride the historic Elevador da Glória funicular or explore the nearby Church of São Roque, a gilded gem that’s home to the most expensive chapel in Europe. Or in the other direction you’ll find Rua da Bica and its funicular. Within Bairro Alto, you’ll find some quirky boutiques on Rua Dom Pedro V and Rua da Rosa.

Pros:

Charming neighbourhood with plenty of gritty, real character
Lots of bars, clubs, and live music for fun evenings
Great location between Chiado and Príncipe Real
Walking distance to… well, everything

Cons:

Noisy at night – bring earplugs or book a hotel on a quieter side street (read the reviews!)
Steep with cobblestone streets
I wouldn’t recommend this area for families

Where to stay in Bairro Alto

Palácio das Especiarias – Old-world glamour in a converted palace with a hidden garden and spa
The Lumiares Hotel & Spa – Boutique, modern 5-star luxury – the rooftop bar has one of the best views of Lisbon
Le Consulat – Art-filled suites with great food and a central Lisbon location
Raw Culture Arts & Lofts – Industrial-chic lofts in the heart of it all
Inn Bairro Alto B&B – Quiet, central stay, ideal for couples on a mid-range budget

Avenida da Liberdade – leafy, luxury avenue

Ideal for: Those seeking the 5-star life, with luxury boutiques, high-end shopping, and fancy restaurants and bars all set along a beautiful avenue.

Vibe: Avenida da Liberdade is Lisbon’s most elegant address. This established leafy boulevard is lined with designer boutiques and grand hotels. It feels oh so European, so it’s not surprising to learn it was designed in the 19th century to mimic Parisian avenues.

It’s here you’ll find luxury stores like Prada, Gucci and Dior jammed between 4- and 5-star hotels and upmarket restaurants. Wander down the black-and-white mosaic calçada and you’ll soon reach Baixa and downtown. If you like your city breaks with a touch of luxe, this is the spot. That said, I love that if you step back a block or two in any direction from the main avenue, you’ll return to rustic, charming Lisbon with its tascas and cheap, cheerful dining.

Sightseeing highlights: Avenida is itself an attraction with high-end restaurants, rooftop bars, and luxury shopping. A short stroll north, you’ll reach Parque Eduardo VII, or head south on the avenue towards Restauradores and Rossio squares.

Pros:

Super central and easy-to-reach while still surprisingly calm and charming
Good public transport links and walkable to both downtown and uptown Lisbon
Luxe hotels and upscale shopping, yet hidden gems just a block or two away
Beautiful architecture and leafy, historic and clean street

Cons:

Hotels and restaurants here lean luxury, though at the northern end, you’ll find some mid-range stays around the Marquês de Pombal roundabout
Can feel a little too polished for some tastes

Where to stay in Avenida Liberdade

Valverde Hotel – Classic 5-star Lisbon elegance with a leafy courtyard and impeccable service
Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa – A 5-star Lisbon institution with a rooftop bar that locals actually go to
The Vintage Lisbon – Stylish, modern, and 5-star – full of chic mid-century design details
Hotel Hotel – Leafy modern 4-star hotel just off the avenue
The One Palácio de Anunciada – Historic and central 5-star oasis with a spectacular rooftop pool. Received one ‘Michelin Key’ in 2025
Altis Avenida – 5-star hotel in the most central location with an amazing rooftop bar, Rossio Gastrobar
POSTCODE Liberdade – 4-star apart-hotel with everything you could want for longer stays
Lisbon Wine Hotel – 4-star hotel with spacious rooms and comfy beds
Hotel Alegria – 3-star boutique hotel with a chic, homely, heritage feeling

Santos & São Bento – polished, cool area of Lisbon

Ideal for: Creative types, foodies, and digital nomads who want to stay somewhere a little different.

Vibe: Santos and São Bento are cool, creative neighbouring areas filled with wine bars, design studios, all-day cafés, and cool boutiques. Both have an eclectic inner-city neighbourhood buzz.

São Bento is home to Palácio de São Bento (Portugal’s parliament house), but the streets surrounding the impressive building, where the country’s biggest decision-makers work, are relaxed and fun, filled with gorgeous tiled buildings, antique stores, thrift shops, and cool bars.

Santos, closer to the river, has a few concentrated streets jam-packed with design studios, natural wine bars, and all-day cafés where locals spill out onto the cobbled footpaths. You could start your morning with rooftop yoga and a flat white, then end the day with a late dinner in a moody bistro before kicking on with a cocktail.

Sightseeing highlights: In Santos, visit the National Museum of Ancient Art, then walk along the riverside towards the Docas de Santo Amaro, where old warehouses are now restaurants and bars. São Bento has the parliament building to admire; otherwise, just have fun exploring a handful of cool vintage stores and admiring the charming residential streets.

Pros:

Young, creative, and design-forward feeling
Fantastic restaurants, wine bars, and cafés
Less touristy, more local and residential
Walkable to the river and central neighbourhoods

Cons:

Not ideal if you want to be steps from major sights
Some steep hills around São Bento (bring comfy shoes)

Where to stay in Santos & São Bento

The Verse – Newly opened apart-hotel with 15 chic suites
Casa do Bairro by Shiadu – Warm, welcoming, and a solid value in a quiet corner
York House Lisboa – A former convent turned serene, design-forward hotel with a lush terrace
Palácio Ramalhete – A dreamy 18th-century townhouse with tiled walls and a courtyard pool
Dear Lisbon – Gallery House – Boutique comfort tucked into the quiet hills of São Bento

Anjos & Intendente – the gritty, cool area of Lisbon

Ideal for: Travellers who want that unpolished neighbourhood full of creative, cool things to experience.

Vibe: Anjos and Intendente are two great neighbourhoods with serious character – a little rough around the edges, super multicultural, and filled with curious places to explore. Both are transforming fairly rapidly, but each offers an off-beat mix of bold street art, multicultural eats, vinyl bars, and secondhand shopping.

The two neighbourhoods lie along Almirante Reis Avenue, a main arterial road that has amazing tram, bus and metro connections. It means you’re never far from the action, plus this is a great place to wine bar hop or enjoy a more laid-back nightlife.

Sightseeing highlights: You won’t find big-name monuments here. Grab a table in Intendente Square for top-tier people-watching, then go dance at Casa Independente, a cultural hub set in a crumbling palacete. The Monte Agudo viewpoint is a bit of a local gem (pictured above).

Pros:

Young, cool, and full of creative energy
Great restaurants, wine bars, cocktail bars, etc
More affordable than central Lisbon
A real mix of locals and internationals
Feels lived-in and full of personality

Cons:

Not postcard-perfect – some streets feel a bit run-down
Less central (but still well-connected)
No major sights to explore
Can be noisy at night in certain areas

Where to stay in Anjos & Intendente

1908 Lisboa Hotel – A striking, design-focused 4-star hotel in a restored Art Nouveau building
The Indy House – Stylish, budget-friendly, and ideal for sociable travellers
Upon Angels – 4-stay adults-only hotel with funky, bright interiors
Sant Jordi Hostels Lisbon – Budget double rooms and hostel dorms in an amazing building with a lush garden terrace (complete with antique tiles)
Numa Lisbon Anjos – 4-star apart-hotel with kitchenettes and pops of colour

Belém – quiet, historic neighbourhood

Ideal for: History buffs, museum lovers, families and travellers who want space, sunshine, and a bit of breathing room.

Vibe: Belém is a laid-back, grand-feeling neighbourhood just west of the city centre. Follow the riverfront past the red bridge to this monument and museum-rich suburb with wide boulevards and manicured gardens.

By day, Belém is rammed with tourists visiting some of Portugal’s most iconic monuments, while by night, it’s a quiet stay with just enough good dining to be interesting.

You could start each morning with pastry runs to Pastéis de Belém, enjoy riverside strolls or morning jogs by the water, and experience a more local vibe. Belém is flat, so this could be a good base for young families.

Sightseeing highlights: Belém is packed with Lisbon’s most iconic sights – the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, and Monument to the Discoveries. Don’t skip the MAAT museum, and if you have time, the Coach Museum is a favourite filled with regal historic carriages. Finally, you can’t skip Pastéis de Belém – and don’t worry, the queues move very fast.

Pros:

Home to some of Lisbon’s most famous sights – an essential stop on any Lisbon itinerary (read my Belém guide here)
Spacious, leafy, and relaxed, with lots of gardens for picnics or to let kids run around
Gorgeous river views and golden hour walks along the waterfront
Excellent for families and slower-paced travellers
Feels very safe and well-kept

Cons:

Not super central – about 20–30 mins into the city by train (fastest), tram (slowest), or taxi.
Very quiet at night, so lacks a vibe
Neighbourhood has some local streets behind the monuments, but it feels like a museum district.
Gets packed with tourists during the day

Where to stay in Belém

Altis Belém Hotel & Spa – Sleek, modern 5-star waterfront hotel with a rooftop pool and Michelin-star dining
Palácio do Governador – A 16th-century palace turned boutique hotel with a beautiful spa
Famous Crows Guest House – Friendly, budget guesthouse next to Pastéis de Belém
Wine & Books Lisboa Hotel – Modern, boutique 5-star stay in neighbouring Ajuda area

Avenidas Novas (Marquês de Pombal & Saldanha) – Lisbon’s business heart

Ideal for: Business travellers, longer stays, convenience, quiet nights, and car parking.

Vibe: This newer part of Lisbon is a convenient place to stay with sleek hotels, wide avenues, and easy airport access. As its both residential and business, here you’ll discover a mix of great restaurants, shopping centres, cinemas, and cafés.

While there are still historic pastel-hued buildings in this modern business heart, what it lacks in old-world vibes is made up for in space, calm, and modern comfort. You’ll find good value stays and enjoy easy city connections with great metro links.

Sightseeing highlights: Two gorgeous gardens – the expansive grass of Parque Eduardo VII, and the creative Jardim Gulbenkian (home to the art-filled Gulbenkian Museum). If you like to shop, check out the only department store, El Corte Inglés, and visit Saldanha, a bit of an uptown business district with high street shopping. Although it’s not a sightseeing hotspot, you’re just a few metro stops (or a downhill walk) from Baixa, Chiado, and beyond.

Pros:

Super well connected by metro and buses
Great for longer stays – lots of apartment-style options
Calm, clean, and safe
Close to the airport and main roads (good for arrivals/departures)
Excellent mid-range and business hotel options

Cons:

Lacks traditional “Lisbon charm”
Not walkable to most major sights
Feels more corporate and residential

Where to stay in Avenida Novas

H10 Duque de Loulé – Elegant, blue-and-white tiled perfection with a rooftop bar and standout service
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon – Lisbon classic with grand views and a rooftop running track. A splurge-worthy 5-star stay for timeless glamour
Locke de Santa Joana – Newly renovated convent hotel that’s a neighbourhood within itself – great dining and bars
Lumen Hotel & The Lisbon Light Show – Modern hotel with an immersive light show in the central courtyard each night, and a rooftop pool for sunny days
Evolution Lisboa Hotel – Trendy 4-star stay with soundproof rooms and a tropical rooftop terrace
Lux Lisboa Park – 4-star stay with a rooftop swimming pool, fitness centre, and sun terrace
EPIC SANA Marquês Hotel – Modern 5-star hotel with luxurious rooms, rooftop pool, and airport shuttle

Other neighbourhoods to consider in Lisbon

Above, I’ve listed the main Lisbon areas I’d recommend for first-time visitors. But for those who have visited the city before, perhaps a different kind of experience is what you’re looking for. You might like to try one of these more local Lisbon neighbourhoods.

Graça – cool king of the hill

This residential neighbourhood has plenty going on, with cool wine bars, vintage shopping and viewpoints. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte offers the best view over the city, while Miradouro da Graça is a classic.

Where to stay: Dona Graca Lisbon Apartments, Tings Lisbon

Estrela – quiet yet central

Estrela and Lapa are two picturesque, upmarket neighbourhoods that hug Príncipe Real and Santos, placing you just a touch further out. The Jardim da Estrela, with its elegant European feel, is my favourite garden in Lisbon, and you can climb onto the roof of the massive basilica. Ideal for couples or families who want quiet but central.

Where to stay: Olissippo Lapa Palace, Jardim da Lapa by Shiadu, toctoctoc, The Emerald House

Campo de Ourique – a miniature city within the city

This residential neighbourhood has it all, and it’s not trying to please tourists. Find great dining, a charming park, and a more local take on the Time Out food hall at the Mercado de Campo de Ourique. It’s where the Tram 28 starts, too.

Where to stay: no hotels, only private apartments

Marvila – gritty and raw

This is Lisbon’s emerging creative district, where you’ll find plenty of old warehouses turned art spaces, a handful of craft breweries, and events on every weekend. With its cool industrial edge, it’s where locals go for nightlife that’s more buzzy than a bar but less than a nightclub.

Where to stay: Duques Villa Luxury Guesthouse

Cacilhas – a short ferry away

Across the river in Almada lies Cacilhas, a historic waterfront area with great seafood restaurants and stunning views back to Lisbon. It’s just an 8-minute ferry ride into the city – a good base for an alternative side to your Lisbon experience.

Where to stay: Cacilhas Guest Apartments, Almada Villa, Casa do Criativo

Read next… 13 best day trips from Lisbon

Where to avoid staying in Lisbon

Lisbon is a really safe city. Sure, you need to be street smart, but there’s no need to fear where you stay. Portugal is ranked the seventh most peaceful country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index 2024.

The main concerns in Lisbon are:

Noise on a handful of well-known party streets
Staying on a pedestrian-only street that is actually a cobblestone staircase (aka hell with a suitcase)
Considering your central accommodation in June (due to the Santos Populares festivities)

The main area I would choose to avoid staying in as a visitor to Lisbon is Cais do Sodré, especially around Pink Street. It’s noisy, gritty and honestly a bit gross unless you’re there to party – look at Pink Street and avoid anywhere within two blocks of it.

Another area to choose carefully is Bairro Alto. It’s not the whole suburb, so I have included it above as there are some gorgeous and worthy hotels. But Rua do Norte, Rua da Atalaia, and Rua do Diário de Notícias get busy after dark, with bars closing around 2am. I’d try to stay two blocks back from those streets, and note that the fun concentrates in the centre, so being closer to Praça Luís de Camões or north near Príncipe Real should be okay.

For visitors in June – Lisbon’s Santos Populares festivities take over the city’s more historic neighbourhoods. It’s fun to join in, but if you want to sleep peacefully consider your accommodation carefully in Alfama, Graça, Mouraria, Madragoa, Bairro Alto and Bica.

For solo female travellers – if I were visiting for the first time, I’d avoid Martim Moniz Square and a couple of streets north-east of there. The large groups of men who tend to hang around that area might make you feel uncomfortable.

General tips for visiting Lisbon

Getting around Lisbon

Lisbon is quite easy to get around (despite the hills). The city is compact and well-connected, with lots of pretty streets to explore on foot and soak in the atmosphere. If you need a faster mode of transport than your own two legs, try…

Public Transport

Lisbon’s metro, trams, and buses are all run by Carris and are super affordable. You can tap any bank card on the card/ticket reader on buses, trams, and at the metro. Simple!

At the time of writing, trains still require a rechargable paper Navagante card, which you can buy from train stations or ticket machines for 50c. You can use this on all modes of public transport too, including the ferries and funiculars. I like to load it up with €10-20 of “zapping” credit, or you can add daily passes, etc.

Metro: Clean and reliable, the metro makes it easy to zip around town – plus the red line connects to the airport. It doesn’t service every neighbourhood though, as it has just four lines.
Trams: The historic trams are a favourite for exploring, but the No. 28 is always jammed like a sardine tin.
Buses: One of the best ways to get around the city, with great services and fairly reliable frequency on most lines. Use Google Maps to find the best ways to get around by bus.

Uber, Bolt & Taxis

Uber and Bolt are brilliant rideshare apps. I find Bolt is a bit cheaper than Uber, and both are usually cheaper than taxis unless there is a rush-hour surge. Sometimes you’ll struggle to get drivers to accept rides via the apps, so hailing taxis off the street is a great option. However, I don’t recommend getting a cab when you land at the airport (for all the usual reasons).

Either way, if you are travelling short distances with a group, rideshare and taxis are very affordable.

After reading this guide you should feel confident about where to stay in Lisbon. Any questions? Just leave me a comment…

Read next:

The post Where to stay in Lisbon: Best neighbourhoods & hotels appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Where to eat in Lisbon this summer: guide to the hottest tables for 2025

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Sun, 18 May 2025 23:16:21 +0000

While you’ll always be able to eat well (even without a reservation) in Lisbon, if you’re chasing a seat at one of its buzziest tables, or want to revisit the beloved classics that locals still swear by – you’ll need to plan ahead.

I’ve lived in Lisbon since 2018 and spent years as a food critic before then, so I’m cautious when it comes to hyped-up spots. I’ll often wait a few months to see if the buzz sticks. There are plenty of modern party-vibe, natty-wine, share-plate spots I could list here – but unless there’s substance behind the style, I’m not spending my future house deposit dining there.

Here are the coolest restaurants to book in Lisbon right now – before everyone else does.

New Lisbon restaurants that you should book ahead

Bar Alimentar

This cool Lisbon restaurant is one of the most fun places to eat in the capital right now. The chef behind Tricky’s, João Magalhães Correia, joined forces with bartenders from Imprensa, one of the best cocktail and oyster bars in the city. The result is Bar Alimentar, a dining destination with the fun vibe of a bar and top-class creative, modern share plates that lean into Italian and Portuguese flavours.

Must-try: Bacalhau (salted codfish) cannoli; octopus fregola.
Vibe: Moody, romantic date night or buzzy night out with friends.
Address: Rua Nova da Piedade 62, 1200-299 Lisboa (Príncipe Real)
Reservations: Essential, book online.

Polémico

Young chef António Lobo Xavier opened Polémico in January and I suspect it’ll soon be one of the hottest tables in the city. Every plate we tried smashed it out of the park, and the wine list was fairly broad and reasonably priced for a neo-tasca or modern bistro in Lisbon. The vibe is nice and I’m looking for an excuse to go back with friends to sit in the semi-private dining room.

Must-try: Beef tartare bite, baked seafood rice.
Vibe: clean, modern bistro vibe set across a couple of rooms and a covered courtyard.
Address: Rua do Sol ao Rato 61, 1250-089 Lisboa (Campo de Ourique)
Reservations: Recommended, book online.

Parra Wine Bistro

If you love wine, you’ll drink well here. The by-the-glass menu changes every two weeks, featuring Portuguese and international wines curated by co-owner Artur Emashev, a sommelier from Russia. But for me the main reason to visit Parra is the food, with share plates that change seasonally.

Must-try: Tartare on brioche with cured egg and a fat Cantabrian anchovy… oh how I dream of thee.
Vibe: Moody wine bar clad in pink marble with red accents.
Address: Rua da Esperança 72, 1200-658 Lisboa (Santos)
Reservations: Essential, book online.

Rosetta’s

I didn’t expect to fall for Rosetta’s, a tiny, produce-driven restaurant in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto – but one bite in, I was sold. In 2024, Lisbon was inundated by a wave of overpriced contemporary share-plate spots, making me extra wary – but Rosetta’s is the real deal. The Instagram-famous crumbed Milanesa with pea salad was actually our low point but every other dish — from the grilled peaches with burrata to the zucchini fritters with dill — exceeded expectations. The wine list is excellent, if a little spendy, with lots of natural or low-intervention bottles.

Must-try: The menu changes season-to-season, but everything was excellent.
Vibe: Cosy cornershop with a handful of tables and moody lighting.
Address: R. da Rosa 39, 1200-190 Lisboa (Bairro Alto)
Reservations: Recommended, book online.

Modern Lisbon spots (that you’ll need to book ahead)

O Velho Eurico

Young chef Zé Paulo Rocha turned this old tasca into one of Lisbon’s hottest tables years ago. International press blew the place into the stratosphere, but still O Velho Eurico maintains its quality and authentic vibe. It reopened in May after four months of renovations, and it remains as popular as ever. They take reservations for the first sitting, so show up early and wait if desperate.

Must-try: Chambão beef sandwich, any fried pastry, the squid with orange.
Vibe: Like dining in the hull of a ship commandeered by a bunch of young and friendly apron-wearing pirates.
Address: Largo São Cristóvão 3, 1100-179 Lisboa (Baixa)
Reservations: Only for the first sitting – so you can show up for walk-ins.

If you can’t get in, try the neighbour: Tasca Baldracca.

Canalha

If you’re searching for one of the best restaurants in Lisbon this summer, Canalha should be on your list. This produce-driven Portuguese bistro comes from renowned chef João Rodrigues. It’s a relaxed neighbourhood spot with a flexible dining experience – you can walk in with €20 at lunch, or go all out with seafood and steak by weight. The menu features elevated versions of traditional Portuguese dishes, all rooted in seasonal ingredients and local flavor.

Must-try: Daily specials, carabineiro (scarlet prawn) pasta, anything in season.
Vibe: Classic European bistro with marble countertops and dark wood panelling.
Address: R. da Junqueira 207, 1300-338 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone.

Taberna Sal Grosso

Gather friends, book the big table, and order everything on the menu – that’s the way I like to enjoy Sal Grosso. A large blackboard lists the day’s dishes, with Portuguese-inspired small and medium plates like tuna pica pau, fried quail, and sticky-sweet pork ribs. While it has Portuguese roots as one of the first modern tascas in Lisbon, the menu leans global with bold, creative combos. The original Alfama location is tiny and charming but it should be easier to find a table at the new São Bento addition.

Must-try: Fried baby squid, bacalhau (salted cod), lamb sandwich.
Vibe: Casual, fun and no frills.
Address: Calçada do Forte 22, 1100-256 Lisboa (Alfama) & R. Correia Garção 15, 1200-640 Lisboa (São Bento)
Reservations: Book ahead online, especially for the Alfama location – it’s tiny.

Vida de Tasca

In a city where ramen joints and burger bars are rapidly replacing old-school favorites, chef Leonor Godinho has done the opposite – opening a true Portuguese tasca in an old tasca when the owners retired. The vibe is refreshingly authentic, with minimal changes to the interiors – the major uplift is the food, as Godinho elevates tradition with touches such as made-to-order croquettes, and a short yet strong menu of daily specials.

Must-try: Lisbon’s favourite dish, the bitoque – a thin steak topped with a fried egg.
Vibe: Typical neighbourhood tasca, but with a fresh backbone.
Address: R. Moniz Barreto 7, 1700-306 Lisboa (Roma)
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone a day or three ahead.

Omakase Ri

Lisbon is omakase mad at the moment, and one of the most popular is Omakase Ri – an energetic and vibey space that serves traditional edomae sushi. With just 10 seats, you’ll want to book ahead for this surprise Japanese tasting menu. Behind the counter is Brazilian sushi chef William Vargas and sake sommelier Gabriela Hatano.

Must-try: Dive into the omakase menu with whatever fresh delights they serve up.
Vibe: Funky, fun, a bit punk and very cosy.
Address: Calçada do Forte 22, 1100-256 Lisboa (Alfama) & R. Correia Garção 15, 1200-640 Lisboa (São Bento)
Reservations: Only 10 seats, two sittings per night – book ahead, weeks ahead.

O Frade

O Frade’s progressive take on Alentejo cuisine has earned it a Michelin Bib Gourmand every year since 2020. The best seats are around the U-shaped marble bar, where you can watch the chefs plate each dish and try talha wines aged in the ancient terracotta amphoras.

Must-try: Rabbit escabeche, any rice dish.
Vibe: Cool yet friendly, and a little touristy at lunch (it is Belém after all).
Address: Calçada da Ajuda 14, 1300-598 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not. Dinner will be easier than lunch.

If you can’t get in, O Frade has a second location at the Time Out Market.

Âmago

This intimate mod-European dining room, run by a husband-and-wife duo, seats just 10 guests at one long table. Everyone sits at Âmago at the same time for a unique communal experience, where the chefs prepare a 10-moment tasting menu.

Must-try: Modern European seasonal tasting menu.
Vibe: Intimate and informal.
Address: R. da Alegria 41C, 1250-182 Lisboaa (Príncipe Real)
Reservations: Book ahead.

Taberna do Mar

Portuguese and Japanese flavors collide at Taberna do Mar. Chef Filipe Rodrigues invented the unforgettable grilled sardine nigiri here – a smoky, umami-packed bite that’s become something of a cult dish. You’ll find it on the well-priced tasting menu, which offers about 10 seafood-focused bites for just €35. The hack my friends do is order a double serve of the sardine nigiri, because one is just never enough.

Must-try: Order the tasting menu with extra nigiri.
Vibe: Small, casual bar with a few tables and counter space.
Address: Calçada da Graça 20 B, 1100-266 Lisboa (Graça)
Reservations: Recommended, at least a few days ahead.

Lisbon diners with queues (go early, or prepare to wait)

Lupita

In the heart of Cais do Sodré, Lupita turns out naturally leavened pizzas, Basque cheesecake cake and natural wines. Sadly this deadly combo means it attracts huge queues. It’s usually at least a 45-minute wait for a pizza, and all the tourists know about it so it attracts queues well before the local dining time of 8pm-ish (sigh!).

Early 2025, Lupita opened a second location in the very Portuguese suburb of Alvalade, so hopefully there’s some respite (though I doubt it, and yes the wait is worthy).

Must-try: pepperoni with spicy honey, and mushroom with lemon zest are two classics.
Vibe: Fast-paced, clean chaos
Address: Rua de S. Paulo 79, 1200-427 Lisboa (Cais do Sodré) & Av. da Igreja 15D, 1700-237 Lisboa (Alvalade)
Reservations: Arrive early and add your name to the door

If you can’t get in, you could try the Alvalade location – or Tozza, Rico’s Pizza, or Lero Lero are very good.

Panda Cantina

Another local favourite is Panda Cantina, a place that basically serves one dish: Chinese ramen. You’ll have a choice of pork, beef or tofu topping, and can pick your spice level from one to five. With five locations across the city, you’d think the buzz would die off but I think this is a student favourite as you can walk away for less than €10.

Must-try: Beef is my favourite at a spice level three.
Vibe: Clean, modern aesthetic with videos of panda playing.
Address: Too many to list – find one in Baixa, Chiado, Príncipe Real, Marquês and Campo Pequeno.
Reservations: Arrive early to avoid queues.

Read next… Where to eat in Baixa, Lisbon

Kau – BBQ pop-up

Kau’s Texas-style smoked barbecue is Portugal’s most consistently sold-out food pop-up. There’s a permanent spot on the way but for now the massive American-style truck and even bigger meat smoker pop up semi-regularly at craft breweries on Lisbon’s fringes. You can’t book but you can expect queues and items on the menu sell out, so go early.

Must-try: The brisket is unreal.
Vibe: Very casual, very busy, very efficient Texas-style barbecue.
Address: Check the Instagram.
Reservations: Not possible.

Lisbon classics to book ahead

Ramiro

Lisbon’s seafood temple isn’t a quiet date-night spot. Tiny, ice-cold beers land on the table almost automatically, slurping clams direct from the shell is encouraged, and there’s a loud soundtrack of seafood-incited excitement and tiny plastic hammers cracking open crab shells. Open since the 1950s, Ramiro is Lisbon’s most famous mariscos restaurant, loved for its quality of product and buzzing energy. A worthy, fun splurge.

Must-try: Carabineiro (scarlet prawns) if you can afford one.
Vibe: Loud, buzzy seafood institution with engaging, fast-paced staff.
Address: Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa (Intendente)
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone, or show up and wait.

If you can’t get in, Lisbon has lots of “marisqueiras” or “cervejarias” that specialise in seafood. While none quite match the energy of Ramiro you could try – Pinoquio, Nunes Real, Palacio, A Caravana, or A Marisqueira do Lis.

Ponto Final

Honestly, if you want to eat at Ponto Final this summer in Lisbon, it’s probably too late to book a table. Pinterest-worthy pictures of the canary-yellow tables stacked along a pier, jutting out into the river, have caused buzz for years. Thankfully beyond the unforgettable views the traditional Portuguese food is actually decent. If you really, really want to go – you can show up and queue for some time.

Must-try: Fish rice, grilled fish.
Vibe: Stick it on the ‘gram.
Address: R. do Ginjal 72, 2800-285 Almada (Cacilhas)
Reservations: Book months in advance!

If you can’t get in, try Atira-te ao Rio next door, which has a terrace with the same view and more refined Portuguese cuisine.

Último Porto

There’s no place like Último Porto. The smell of the grill hits you first before you spot groups of suits knocking back carafes of white wine, seated in cheap plastic garden chairs as shipping containers whiz around on the other side of a wire fence. This unusual waterfront restaurant is tucked next to the docks. But for the best grilled fish in Lisbon, Último Porto is the spot. It’s only open for lunch, and it pays to call ahead.

Must-try: Grilled fish, amêijoas à bulhão pato (clams with garlic and coriander).
Vibe: The worst view and best fish imaginable at a waterfront restaurant.
Address: R. Gen. Gomes Araújo 1, 1350-352 Lisboa (Santos)
Reservations: By phone, recommended – same day can be tricky

Tasquinha do Lagarto

Tasquinha do Lagarto opened in 1973 and is now one of the best traditional tascas in Lisbon. Inside you’ll be greeted by walls covered in Sporting football memorabilia and families gathering for lunch or dinner. It’s an affordable spot for classic Portuguese comfort food, where every dish is consistently excellent.

Must-try: Atum cebolada (tuna and onions), polvo á lagaeiro (baked octopus with potatoes).
Vibe: Local families out for a cheap, cheerful lunch or dinner with sports jerseys on every wall
Address: R. de Campolide 258, Lisboa (Campolide)
Reservations: By phone, recommended – or be prepared to wait a long time(with a beer in hand, of course)

That’s my list of the coolest restaurants and hottest tascas, taverns and tables in Lisbon right now. Anywhere you think I should add to the list? Leave a comment…

Keep reading….

The post Where to eat in Lisbon this summer: guide to the hottest tables for 2025 appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Local’s guide to Belém, Lisbon: Best things to do with a half-day or more

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:06:51 +0000

Belém is a must-visit riverfront neighborhood rich in monuments, museums, and manicured parklands. It was from these shores, where the Tagus River kisses the Atlantic Ocean, that many ships including explorer Vasco da Gama’s fleet in 1497, left to map the world during Portugal’s powerful Age of Discoveries.

History is just one reason why this flat, riverfront suburb is more than worth the detour to Lisbon’s western fringe. Besides seeing two of Portugal’s most important buildings marking that era, you should make a pilgrimage to eat the OG pastel de nata at a bakery open since 1837.

I live in Lisbon and think any first-timer’s itinerary should include at least half a day exploring Belém. History lovers can’t miss the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower, or Monument to the Discoveries. Art lovers can pop into the CCB/CAM for modern and contemporary art, or walk along the waterfront to MAAT for super new-age expression. Then there are museums dedicated to gilded horse-drawn carriages, the big earthquake, and maritime history to name a few.

I’ll outline a basic half-day or full-day itinerary for Belém, then share a list of museums, galleries and extra things to do in Belém for you to make a day of it in Portugal’s capital.

At the bottom I’ve included where to stay in Belém, and if you’re looking for where to eat in Belém I have another article covering my favourite tried-and-tested restaurants in Belém.

Tip: Don’t go on a Monday. Most of the museums and monuments will be closed.

Half-day and full-day itinerary for Belém

In a hurry? Here’s what I’d do if I only had a morning or afternoon:

Start at the Jerónimos Monastery. Either enter the free church, or buy advance timed tickets for the cloisters.
Pop into Pasteís de Belém to try the original custard tarts. The queues are organised chaos, so find the table queue (it moves fast with 400+ seats inside) or get takeaway and enjoy in one of the parks.
Walk to the Discoveries Monument, a mammoth 1960s artwork that symbolises the discovery of the “new world” (of course we now know it had already been discovered by the people living there). Cross the park and you’ll find an underground walkway here to cross the railway line.
Next to the monument is a great oyster truck, Ostras Sobre Rodas. Stop for fresh oysters from Setúbal and Portuguese wine!
Continue to the Belém Tower, a 16th-century mini fortress in the river and a symbol of the city. It’s a little out of the way but very beautiful – there’s no need to buy tickets to enter.

Don’t want to walk? Book this tuk-tuk tour instead. Belém is quite spread out – think 30+ minutes of walking between the iconic and classic sights I’ve listed above. My suggestion is to book the two-hour Belém Tour with João’s Journeys (I highly recommend!), and explore with a licensed guide in an electric tuk-tuk.

Or extend the fun and make it a full-day Belém itinerary.

From the Belém Tower, walk along the waterfront back towards the red bridge/downtown. There are lots of pop-up bars and good vibes here, and you’ll pass the MAAT gallery.
Close to the bridge pillar lies the LX Factory, an artsy hub that has taken over an old textiles factory. Inside find restaurants, afternoon happy hour, shops, artisans and cool street art.
Or continue the fun with a daytime or sunset sailboat cruise from the Alcântara Docas. Think two hours on the river admiring the sights from the water with a glass of wine in hand. I recommend Enjoy Tagus, which offers both small-group tours tours and private charters.

➼ Want someone to shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls and can plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

For more details on monuments, museums and other things to do in Belém, Portugal, read on…

Should you get the Lisboa Card for Belém?

What is it? A 24-, 48- or 72-hour pass that gives you free access to 51 museums, free public transport, fast-track entry to some monuments, and discounts.

Is it worth it? Yes, but you need to plan ahead to get value.

Should I get it for Belém? I’ve done the maths for you. These are the 2025 prices.

A 24-hour Lisboa Card is €31 for adults.

Jerónimos Monastery – €18
Belém Tower – €15 (currently closed for restoration)
Monument to the Discoveries – €10
Public transport to and from Belém – €6.20

Grand total: €49.20 – so a saving of up to €18.20 with the Lisboa Card if you want to step inside the three top attractions (though the Belém Tower is currently shut).

If you really want to make the most of it, I think you could squeeze another 1-3 nearby sights in 24 hours – or get the 48-hour card for €51 and add Lisbon’s castle. Example of spots that are free with the Lisboa Card:

Coach Museum, Belém – €15
Ajuda National Palace – €15
Treasure Museum, Ajuda – €11
São Jorge Castle – €15
Santa Justa Elevator, Baixa – €6

Buy your Lisboa Card here

How to get to Belém from downtown Lisbon

Belém is a neighbourhood within Lisbon, and you can easily reach it in 15-45 minutes, depending on where you’re based in the city and your choice of transport. From downtown Lisbon (Baixa or Cais do Sodré) you can take the:

Tram 15 – from Praça da Figueira, Praça do Comércio, Cais do Sodré or Santos. It’ll drop you in the heart of Belém, taking approx. 45 minutes with all the stops.
Bus 728 – from Praça do Comércio. This is faster than the tram, taking around 25 minutes.
Train – from Cais do Sodré it takes just 7 minutes.
Uber, Bolt or taxi – about 15-20 minutes.

A nice alternative is a long, scenic walk along the river. The walk is really only scenic and gorgeous from the Alcântara Docas, near the LX Factory, so you could get off the tram, train or bus early and walk the flat waterfront for the half-hour from there – or return to the centre by foot until it gets ugly or your feet hurt.

Tip: To pronounce Belém right – the emphasis on the second vowel in the word with a very soft be to open and very soft m to end … “b-LEY-m”

Best things to see and do in Belém, Portugal

This neighbourhood is really Lisbon’s museums and monuments district. There’s a lot to see here, so I’ll outline the most important sights in Belém along with some more off-beat ideas that might align with your special interests. Vamos!

Jerónimos Monastery – commissioned by a king, funded by spices

Back in 1496, King Manuel I asked the Pope for permission to build a grand monastery close to where ships were departing for the “new world”. Some years after explorer Vasco da Gama discovered a sea route to India, he got his wish and in 1501 one of Portugal’s most important landmarks began construction. The 16th-century monastery is a masterpiece of Manueline architecture (Portugal’s symbolic answer to late gothic) and was funded thanks to the “pepper tax” – a 5% tax on profits from maritime trade with Africa and the East.

Before you pop into the UNESCO World Heritage site’s beautiful church, stop to admire the ornate facade. Look for the details carved into the limestone ropes, anchors, coral, sea monsters, exotic flora — they all symbolise Portugal’s far-reaching expeditions and discoveries. There are two queues and the church part is free to visit. inside you’ll find the tombs of Portugal’s most legendary figures: explorer Vasco da Gama and famous poet Luís de Camões.

You can also pay to enter the cloisters, which have a separate queue. Tickets are timed and you’ll want to buy ahead. If you’re short on time, just admire the extravagant outside and step into the grand church.

Closed: Mondays (plus January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, December 25).
Buy tickets: Free with the Lisboa Card, or buy official entrance tickets here.

Torre de Belém (Belém Tower)

Jutting out into the Tagus River, the Torre de Belém is a postcard-perfect symbol of Lisbon and Portugal’s Age of Discoveries. Built in the 1500s, the UNESCO-listed fortress once guarded the entrance to Lisbon’s port, along with other defensive structures.

The five-storey limestone tower and hexagonal bastion is one of the best examples of Portugal’s Manueline architectural style. Admire the façade’s detail with carved ropes, nautical equipment, armillary spheres (celestial spheres), the cross of the Order of Christ and more. The lower level has 17 openings for cannons, and the dungeons below this first held gunpowder and from 1580 were used as a prison. This article has a great run-down of the tower’s history and symbols.

Fun fact: There’s a carved rhinoceros gargoyle on one of the watchtowers. Apparently a live rhino was gifted to the king and survived a four-month sea journey to Portugal, arriving at this tower in 1515 – the first in Europe since the Roman empire.

Visiting tip: Entrance to the Belém Tower is ticketed, but in all honesty it’s better from the outside – which is lucky as it is closed for restoration currently. I went inside in 2024 and while it is beautiful, you can see most of the details from the promenade and beach.
Plus, the landmark is not huge and the five storeys of tower are connected by a single-lane spiral staircase. There’s a traffic-light system to allow people up and down, but it gets slow. If you have the opportunity to enter, I recommend going at opening and making a B-line for the tower, exploring the bastion second.

Closed: Mondays (plus January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, December 25).
Tickets: Currently closed for restoration, but the view from the outside is better anyway

Let a local bring these places to life with this top-rated Belém walking tour. The half-day tour includes skip-the-line entry to the monastery and coach museum, tarts and coffee at the famous bakery, and a taxi ride to the Belém Tower.

Don’t want to walk? Book this tuk-tuk tour instead. Belém is quite spread out – think 30+ minutes of walking between the iconic and classic sights I’ve listed above. My suggestion is to book the two-hour Belém Tour with João’s Journeys (I highly recommend João!), and explore with a licensed guide in an electric tuk-tuk.

Padrão dos Descobrimentos (Monument to the Discoveries)

This mammoth, 52-metre-high (170 ft) sculptural monument pays tribute to Portugal’s Age of Exploration. A temporary original was constructed for the World Fair, held in Portugal in 1940. Then in 1960 the monument was remade with limestone, steel and concrete to mark the 500th anniversary of the death of Henry the Navigator (Infante Dom Henrique).

The building represents a caravel, the ship used in the Age of Discoveries, with Infante Dom Henrique (1394 – 1460) at the front. He was the driving force behind the discovery of Madeira in 1418, the Azores in 1427, and Cape Verde in 1444. Behind him are 32 important historical figures from the era including King Afonso V, Vasco da Gama, Pedro Álvares Cabral, and Fernão de Magalhães.

In front of the statue, the pavement of the square is made up of the Wind Rose, a gift from the Republic of South Africa. This huge compass, made of black and red limestone, is some 50 metres (164 ft) in diameter and it maps the routes taken during the Portuguese age of expansion

Visiting tip: There is a viewing platform at the top of the tower, accessed by elevator. You’ll get sweeping views over Belém, the Wind Rose, the river and the Abril de 25 bridge. It’s good for a couple of photos but not essential – there are better free viewpoints in Lisbon.

Bonus tip: Next to the monument is a great oyster truck – Ostras Sobre Rodas. Sit with a view while slurping back local oysters from Setúbal paired with Portuguese wine! More ideas for where to eat in Belém here.

Closed: January 1, May 1, December 24, 25 & 31.
Tickets: Free with Lisboa Card – temporarily closed

Pastéis de Belém

Every day thousands of pilgrims trek out to Belém to worship at the altar of the Manueline-style Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the counters of Pastéis de Belém. Open since 1837, this pasteleria is the spiritual homeland of the pastel de nata – although they tend to get a bit tetchy if you say pastel de nata instead of pastel de Belém. The recipe comes from the neighbouring monastery and is a very tightly guarded secret. Despite this, the bakers here make 20,000+ tarts every day.

I find the custard of a pastel de Belém is more savoury and eggy than others in Lisbon, and the pastry is super crunchy – it flakes off in huge crispy wisps. It’s a must-try.

Tip: You’ll spot the queues first – but don’t panic, this isn’t a tourist trap. There are three lines – two for takeaway and one for dine-in. Enter through the middle doors to find the queue for a table. It moves fast and soon you’ll be seated in one of the many tile-clad rooms. Everything they bake seems to be fantastic. Start with an imperial (beer) and empada de pato (duck pie) and finish with a pastel de nata and café (espresso).

Looking for lunch? Where to eat in Belém: the best restaurants, snacks and bars

Best museums and galleries in Belém

Belém is more than grand monuments and flaky custard tarts. You’ll find a handful of top galleries and museums – ideal for lovers of history, art, or those in Lisbon on a rainy day. Here’s what’s worth popping into.

Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum)

A museum full of royal carriages – think gilded, over-the-top coaches that feel like something straight out of a fairytale.

Closed: There are two parts to the museum, and one is closed Mondays the other is closed Tuesdays. Also closed January 1, May 1, Easter Sunday, June 13, December 24 & 25.
Tickets: Free with the Lisboa Card, or buy official entry tickets here.

MAC/CCB – Museu de Arte Contemporânea & Centro Cultural de Belém

This mega, modern cultural complex includes rotating art exhibitions at MAC, regular concerts, plus little stores and cafés. It’s a creative precinct within the area. The main draw is the gallery, which has a solid walkthrough of 20th-century art movements.

Closed: Mondays
Buy tickets: At the museum – 20% off for Lisboa Card.

Sunday market – Every first and third Sunday of the month an antiques and artisans market pops up in the garden in front of the monastery in Jardim Vasco da Gama. The Feira de Antiguidades, Velharias e Artesanato de Belém runs from 9am – 5pm in winter, and until 7pm in summer.

Quake – Earthquake Museum

Relive Lisbon’s most dramatic events: the 1755 earthquake. Quake is an interactive museum that takes visitors back in time on a 90-minute tour through 10 immersive rooms. I’ve visited, and while it was fun to explore history and science in this way, I’d say it’s a strong museum for families.

Closed: Tuesdays, plus January 1, May 1, December 24, 25 & 31.
Tickets: Buy official tickets here.

MAAT – Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology

Modern MAAT hugs the river in a sleek, wave-like building – and within you’ll find rotating contemporary exhibitions. There’s a second part to the gallery, set within the neighbouring historic powerhouse, and even if you don’t go inside, walk across the rooftop for epic views.

Closed: Tuesdays, plus January 1, May 1, December 24, 25 & 31.
Buy tickets: Buy official tickets here.

Maritime Museum (Museu de Marinha)

Set within the long hall of the Jerónimos Monastery, this museum is filled with old maps and beautifully preserved model ships and shares details of Portugal’s glory days at sea.

Closed: Only January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, December 25.
Tickets: At the entrance.

Folk Art Museum (Museu de Arte Popular)

This lesser-known gallery exhibits traditional ceramics, textiles, costumes, and everyday objects of Portugal. Right now there is an excellent exhibition on Portuguese basketry.

Closed: Monday and Tuesday, January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, December 25.
Buy tickets: Buy official tickets online here.

Palace & Museum of the Presidency (Museu da Presidência)

Portugal’s president lives in the pink Palácio Nacional de Belém, and while you can’t enter his home you can explore the former coach house. The museum takes you on a journey through the history of Portugal’s republic, with details about the lives and legacies of its leaders.

Bonus tip: There’s a symbolic Changing of the Guard ceremony outside the palace on the third Sunday of each month at 11am. It’s a beautiful military ceremony with 160 cavalry including a band that play on horseback.

Closed: Currently closed to the public for renovations.
Tickets: At the entrance.

Tropical Botanical Garden

This quiet garden is a bit of a forgotten world. Different from the expansive manicured gardens of Belém, you’ll find overgrown paths, towering palms, and peacocks wandering between plants collected from former Portuguese colonies. A peaceful, wild escape from the crowds.

Closed: Mondays and public holidays
Tickets: At the gate.

More cool things to do near Belém

Neighbouring Belém are the charming, more local suburbs of Ajuda and Alcântara. Both have a handful of top sights and museums worth adding to your day.

LX Factory

A short walk (or scooter ride) from the main Belém strip, this artsy hub is housed in a former textiles factory. Think boutique shops, one of the world’s coolest bookshops, rooftop bars, artisan markets, and street art galore. An ideal spot for late afternoon snacks, shopping, or a pre-dinner drink.

Sailboat river cruise

A sailboat cruise along the Tagus River is one of Lisbon’s most magical experiences. You’ll drift past Lisbon’s famous landmarks, including the Belém Tower, the Discoveries Monument, and under the Abril de 25 Bridge as you venture towards downtown’s Praça do Comércio. It’s even better at sunset when golden light casts its glow across the skyline.

Most cruises last about two hours and include a glass of wine or two, with options ranging from relaxed small-group sails to private romantic charters. I’ve created a guide to the best boat tours in Lisbon here. TL;DR – Enjoy Tagus is a personal favourite who do small-group or private charters with maximum 10 guests from the docks in Alcântara (near the bridge). Or try Lisbon By Boat which leaves from the docks at Belém, close to the Discoveries Monument.

Read next… Best boat tours in Lisbon

Portuguese School of Equestrian Art

Just around the corner lies the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art. You can watch morning training sessions at the Henrique Calado Riding Ring on Calçada da Ajuda, where you’ll see riders in 18th-century costume work with beautiful Lusitano horses. The school also hosts performances, where choreography showcases the grace and discipline of classical dressage.

Closed: Weekends
Buy tickets: Book tickets here – session is 11am-1pm.

Ajuda Palace (Palácio Nacional da Ajuda)

A little uphill from Belém, the grand Ajuda Palace was once home to Portugal’s royals. Inside it’s a time capsule of 19th-century opulence – think velvet walls, chandeliers, a dramatic dining room. It’s surprisingly much quieter than other Lisbon sights – great if you love a bit of grandeur without the crowds.

Closed: Wednesdays, plus January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1, June 13, December 25.
Tickets: Book official tickets here, or it’s free with the Lisboa Card

Royal Treasure Museum (Museu do Tesouro Real)

Next door to the palace, the recently opened Royal Treasure Museum is filled with beautiful shiny objects. The royal family never finished the palace, so this modern, high-security vault on the back end is an ideal spot to showcases Portugal’s royal jewels and gold pieces.

Closed: Only December 25 an January 1.
Buy tickets: Book official tickets here, or it’s free with the Lisboa Card

MACAM – Museu de Arte Contemporânea Armando Martins

MACAM opened in March 2025 within a restored 18th-century palace. This private gallery showcases more than 600 works from collector Armando Martins. Plus, you can stay at the 5-star hotel above for a stay with art.

Closed: Tuesdays, plus January 1, Easter Sunday, May 1 and December 25.
Buy tickets: Book tickets here

Where to stay in Belém

By day Belém is very busy, but by night it’s a calm residential area to stay in. There are a select number of hotels, either set in historic renovated palaces, or luxurious new builds with rooftop views.

Altis Belem Hotel & Spa

Set right on the riverfront, the sleek and modern 5-star Altis Belem Hotel & Spa offers a quiet stay by the water. Within you’ll find the Michelin-starred Feitoria restaurant, indoor and outdoor pools (including one on the rooftop), a spa and a sun deck. Ideal to wake up somewhere peaceful yet in the heart of it.

Book Altis Belem Hotel & Spa

Palácio do Governador

This historic 5-star hotel sits within the former 16th-century Governor’s Palace, which was built above Roman ruins. All this history is on display in the common spaces, and the luxurious, recently renovated rooms make a solid base in Belém.

Book Governor’s Palace

Geronimo Guest House Belém

For a more homely touch, the unique Geronimo Guest House in Belém has just six suites that share a beautiful sun terrace, leafy garden, and open-air bath. There’s also a yoga and fitness studio and you’ll stay on a quiet residential street.

Book Geronimo Guest House

Wine & Books Lisboa Hotel

Up the hill a little bit in the Ajuda neighbourhood, the chic 5-star Wine & Books Lisboa hotel is a modern hotel with a unique spin.

Book Wine & Books Lisboa

Famous Crows Lisbon Suites

A great budget-friendly option is the top-rated Famous Crows Lisbon Suites, which is on the main drag of Belém. Breakfast is not included here – which is no problem as the famous Pastéeis de Belém bakery is right next door.

Book Famous Crows Lisbon Suites

Hyatt Regency Lisbon

Closer to Alcântara, the 5-star Hyatt Regency Lisbon has large rooms and wonderful views over the bridge and river from the rooftop bar. From here it’s a flat 15-minute walk to Belém in one direction, or the LX Factory in the other.

Book the Hyatt Regency Lisbon

Pestana Palace Lisboa Hotel & National Monument

Feel like royalty when you stay at the 5-star Pestana Palace Hotel tucked in the backstreets of leafy Alcântara. The hotel is set around a restored 19th-century palace with private parklands, two pools, a sauna and wellness centre.

Book the Pestana Palace Hotel

That’s my guide to the best thing to do in Belém, one of the most important neighbourhoods in Portugal’s capital. Did you find this useful? Leave me a comment!

Keep reading…

The post Local’s guide to Belém, Lisbon: Best things to do with a half-day or more appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Where to eat in Belém: the best restaurants, snacks and bars

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:50:50 +0000

Belém might be packed with tourists, but finding a good spot to eat doesn’t have to feel like a scavenger hunt. I live close by and have spent plenty of time dining in Belém, so consider this your Belém food guide to dodge the tourist traps and actually eat well – whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between sights or settling in for a long lunch by the river.

There’s more to Belém than just custard tarts (though yes, you should absolutely still eat at least two from Pastéis de Belém). From fancy seafood lunches to cheap, no-frills tascas, from pizza to piglet sandwiches – here are my picks for where to eat in Belém.

I’ve split it into three sections – quick snacks, proper restaurants, bars – plus there’s a map at the bottom.

Quick lunch in Belém

Pastéis de Belém – bakery

Every day, thousands of people make the pilgrimage to Belém – some for the monastery, most for the tarts. I say go for both. Pastéis de Belém has been baking its famous custard tarts since 1837, using a tightly guarded recipe passed on from the Jerónimos Monastery next door. Now this pastry shop turns out more than 20,000 tarts a day — and yes, they really are worth the hype.

These custard tarts are different from others you’ll find around Lisbon: the filling is slightly more egg-forward, and the pastry is next-level crispy, flaking into golden shards with every bite. The queue can look intimidating but moves fast. For lunch, I suggest dining in – head through the centre doors to find the line for a table.

For lunch, there’s a menu of savoury snacks (I have a small addiction to the duck pie) and toasted sandwiches, so you can smash down something salty before eating a dozen tarts. Try to order all at once as service here is amazing, but it’s also well-oiled chaos.

Address: R. de Belém 84 92, 1300-085 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Not possible

Bonus tarts: It’s worth mentioning that Manteigaria has opened next door and across the road. Most locals will say either the OG Pasteís de Belém or newcomer Manteigaria do the best tarts in Portugal, and now you can try them side-by-side and decide for yourself.

Afonso dos Leitões – piglet sandwiches

Leitão (roasted suckling pig) is one of the most delicious things you can eat in Portugal. Alfonso dos Leitões has a couple of stores in Lisbon serving a delicious piglet sandwich, complete with the classic ultra-peppery gravy. A great quick lunch in Belém.

Address: R. da Junqueira 486, 1300-598 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Not needed

Looking for a serious food tour in Lisbon? Go beyond the typical tourist bites with Culinary Backstreets. I highly recommend their four unique Lisbon food tours that dive deep into the city’s seafood traditions, colonial influences, and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Get 5% off with the code DANIELA5 when you book!

Otsumami & Pita.gr – Japanese & Greek food trucks

In Largo da Princesa, closer to the Tower of Belém, these two food trucks have built a loyal following and solid reputation for serving great food. Otsumami is a mini izakaya with Japanese street food, while Pita.gr is focused on proper Greek pita (with the chips and all).

Address: Lgo da Princesa, 1400-024 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Not needed

Confeitaria Nacional Belém – classic bakery

Lisbon’s oldest bakery has a smaller outlet close to the Belém Tower, set on a small wharf that juts out from the river. It’s a cheap place to stop for baked sweets, a slice of quiche, toasted sandwich or simple lunch. The multiple terraces have amazing views of the river and landmarks, and it’s a relaxed spot for a coffee or a beer

Address: Av. Brasília, 1400-038 Lisboa (Belém Tower)
Reservations: Not possible

Pão Pão Queijo Queijo – sandwich bar

For a quick fix close to the monastery, this popular sandwich bar always has a queue and you can get shoarma, baguettes, wraps and loaded salads. Pão Pão Queijo Queijo is a no-frills spot so you don’t want to overthink it.

Address: R. de Belém 126, 1300-086 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Not possible

Top restaurants in Belém

Want to spend more time eating, less time sightseeing? Book this two-hour Belém tuk-tuk tour and tick off the most iconic sights with João’s Journeys in an electric tuk-tuk. (I highly recommend!)

O Frade – modern take on Alentejo cuisine

Sérgio Frade’s progressive take on Alentejo flavours earned O Frade a Michelin Bib Gourmand back in 2020. Every dish here is fantastic, but definitely order one of the killer rice dishes: rice with lobster, rice with corvina fish, rice with duck. It’s a spot to try Portugal’s talha wines, a special tradition of ageing vinho in terracotta that dates back to Roman times. Book ahead, especially to sit around the U-shaped bar inside to watch the chefs at work.

Address: Calçada da Ajuda 14, 1300-598 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: The menu changes season-to-season, go at lunch for the well-priced daily special
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Guelra – chic seafood spot

From the same owner of O Frade comes Guelra, a fish-focused diner that has creativity at the forefront. It’s a two-storey restaurant (with a huge leafy terrace) close to the monuments in Belém. I really love the interior, especially the bar, and I’ll return for the curious seafood snacks, from Bacalhau³ (salted cod three ways) to a tuna katsu sandwich.

Address: R. de Belém 35, 1300-085 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Seafood snacks! Reinterpretations of Portuguese seafood dishes
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not – lots of tables

➼ Wish someone could shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help people cut through the noise and plan a perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Canalha – produce-driven Portuguese bistro

Book ahead if you want a table at Canalha, a produce-driven Portuguese bistro from one of Portugal’s top chefs, João Rodrigues. It’s a relaxed neighbourhood spot where you can spend €20 or €200. Expect chef versions of humble, traditional dishes, plus exquisite seafood and steak by weight. It all changes by season.

Address: R. da Junqueira 207, 1300-338 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Daily specials, carabineiro (scarlet prawn) pasta, anything in season
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone

Ruoto – pizza

I was quite sad when my local Neapolitan pizza spot shut (due to building structural issues), but this spot comes from the same owner. Expect top-tier pizzas made using Italian ingredients, with the exception of the fresh cheeses – mozzarella and burrata – that are made here in Portugal. If there’s no space inside Ruoto, take advantage of the parkland nearby.

Address: Tv. Marta Pinto 12, 1300-390 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Choose from the nine pizzas, or there are a couple of pasta and lasagna options.
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in or takeaway if not

Clube Naval de Lisboa – riverfront traditional Portuguese

There are plenty of riverfront restaurants in Belém, but few I’d highly recommend. Some are too expensive and pretentious without reason, while others fall below the mark. Clube Naval de Lisboa, linked to the naval club, is a waterfront gem for traditional Portuguese food and one of my friends goes here almost every Sunday. Prices are higher than a tasca but the views more than make up for it.

Address: Av. Brasília, 1300-501 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Grilled fish, or from the selections of petiscos (Portuguese tapas).
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Read next… Where to eat in Baixa, Lisbon

O Prado – traditional tasca

Go early if you want an outdoor table at this popular traditional tasca. Here you can eat homely and comforting Portuguese dishes, such as grilled fish, seafood rice, and daily specials. Expect it to be busy but very reasonably priced.

Address: R. da Junqueira 472, 1300-341 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: In a tasca your best bet is to go for the prato do dia – ask what the daily specials are.
Reservations: Call ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Bonus tasca: Try Frazão – an overlooked spot that is truly local. You’ll need Google Translate to decipher the menu here.

Nunes Real Marisqueira – seafood temple

This Belém institution is a glamorous, over-the-top art deco temple with seafood at the centre. You can splurge big on lobster rice and dive into a wine list as deep as the ocean, or keep it calmer with seafood by weight. It’s a worthy spot for some of the best fresh clams, prawns, lobster, oysters, crab, sea urchin, scallops and fish – book ahead.

Address: R. Bartolomeu Dias 172 E F, 1400-031 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Try the lobster bitoque – a seafood take on a Lisbon classic dish.
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Read next… How to spend 48 hours in Lisbon

Miolo – brunch café

This light-filled all-day café in downtown Belém is a gem hidden in plain sight. Grab a table within the pretty space and enjoy a coffee or juice with creative breakfast and brunch plates. Miolo is a good spot for more creative vegetarian food in Belém. If you missed lunch, don’t panic as the kitchen is open until they close.

Address: R. de Belém 36, 1300-083 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: the banana bread!
Reservations: Walk-in only

Bonus café: Augusto, up the road from O Frade, is another gorgeous café with a brunch menu.

Taberna dos Ferreiros – modern Portuguese

I’m yet to visit this top-rated Portuguese tavern, but judging by the reviews and photos the food is made with a lot of love, adding some modern techniques to traditional Portuguese cuisine. The small space of Taberna dos Ferreiros is tucked down a side street.

Address: Tv. Ferreiros a Belém 5, 1300-085 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Portuguese classics, like bacalhau à Bras or pica pau
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Samurai Belém – all-you-can-eat sushi

Whenever I’m craving basic, cheap sushi, I make an order at Samurai Belém. You can pick up takeaway boxes for around €6.70 and go sit in the park, or go wild with the all-you-can-eat à la carte sushi buffet – just €13 at lunch, or €17 at dinner. Everything is prepared fresh for you, from the sushi rolls to the sizzling plates of prawns.

Address: R. da Junqueira 502, 1300-341 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Box 621 and 625 is my takeaway order! Everything is good though.
Reservations: Walk-in is easy

Where to drink in Belém

Adega Belém Urban Winery

Lisbon’s only urban winery is a rustic family-run beauty set in an old mechanic’s workshop. Adega Belém Urban Winery is not open every day and hours are limited, so check the schedule before dropping in for a tasting. Better yet, I highly recommend booking the winery tour and tasting (email or call). I’ve never heard anyone explain the science behind wine like David does and it gave me a whole new appreciation for the work in every drop. Give Lilly the cellar dog a scratch from me.

Address: Tv. Paulo Jorge 9, 1300-444 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Besides trying the wines, don’t skip the snacks – local bread, high-quality Portuguese cheese and charcuterie. Heaven.
Reservations: Book a guided tasting, or check the drop-in hours.

Salty Floor

This natural wine bar is hidden in the shadow of Jerónimos Monastery. Salty Floor is an unpretentious space where you can sit in the sunshine with a glass while patting the owner’s dogs and reading a book or chatting with friends.

Address: R. dos Jerónimos 18C, 1400-206 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Walk in

Quiosque Belém

You never go wrong with a quiosque (kiosk) in Lisbon. You’ll find these small, round metal stalls close to parks around the city, and it’s a good spot for a basic beer or wine in Belém.

Address: R. Vieira Portuense 1, 1300-571 Lisboa (Belém)
Reservations: Walk in

Riverside bars

If you walk along the river, between the Belém Tower and the bridge, you’ll stumble upon dozens of pop-up and permanent bars. One of the cutest is Wine With a View, a tiny food truck that’s always parked up next to the tower. I also love Ostras Sobre Rodas, an oyster and wine truck with freshly shucked bivalves from Setúbal.

Map of where to eat and drink in Belém

That’s my guide covering where to eat and drink in Belém. Looking for a full list for Lisbon? Try here.

Keep reading…

The post Where to eat in Belém: the best restaurants, snacks and bars appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Best boat tours in Lisbon

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 07:40:00 +0000

It’s magic seeing the skyline of Lisbon from the water. Suddenly the geography – all the hills, viewpoints, and landmarks – falls into place. Zipping about on the Tagus River aboard a Lisbon boat trip is even better at sunset. A golden glow adds extra sparkle to Lisbon’s monuments as you cruise beneath the towering 25 de Abril Bridge, pass the famous Belém Tower, and gaze up at Cristo Rei watching over you.

I live in Lisbon and I go out on the Rio Tejo at least a few times each summer, usually renting a 12-person sailboat and skipper with my friends. I’ve got lots of local tips and ideas for when to book your sailboat, which type of boat to look for, and what to take with you.

Let’s dive into my guide to the best boat tours in Lisbon. Fingers crossed you’re lucky enough to see dolphins!

In a hurry? My top 5 picks for Lisbon boat tours

I’ve gone into great detail below, but if you want my quick opinion – these are the Lisbon boat tours I’d book in each category.

Classic sailboat tour or private charter (my favourite): I’ve been on Tagus River a few times with Enjoy Tagus, and each experience was 5-star with great service and lovely staff. Up to 10 people.
Big boat party: I’ve done this 4-hour sunset party on a big historic ship. It’s good fun with some drinks, a live DJ, and around 150 people. Great vibe.
Budget express boat tour: Tagus River Express Cruise 45-minute sightseeing tour is aboard a cute historic cargo boat from 1947.
Tours with swim stops: Most boats cruise in the river, so book this shared 3-hour BBQ boat cruise to the beach with grilled lunch, open bar and music, or this private sailboat for 4-7 hours to go swim at the beach.
Dolphin-watching cruise: 3-hour tour with a marine biologist in a fast rigid inflatable boat/zodiac.

Choosing your style of boat tour in Lisbon

There are half-a-dozen types of boat tours that operate on Lisbon’s Tagus River.

10-person sailboats or 18-person catamarans that you can book privately or join on a small-group tour. Usually 2-4 hours.
Large-scale party boat tours, usually with a DJ at sunset and a bar.
Tourist hop-on, hop-off boat tours.
Half-day ocean boat trips with swim stops.
Dolphin-watching and wildlife boat tours.

Besides these tour options, there are also public ferry boats that cross the river, connecting the southern areas of Cacilhas, Trafaria, Barreiro, and Seixal with Lisbon.

➼ Want someone to shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls and can plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Essential tips for boat tours in Lisbon

Book ahead. Especially in summer, the boats will get very busy and you don’t want to miss out.
Don’t be late. If you’ve booked a small-group tour, it will leave on time – don’t delay it! They might not wait.
No hotel pick-ups. You have to find your way to the correct dock (there are 6-8 docks in Lisbon). Use Uber, Bolt, public transport or a taxi.
Don’t expect commentary. While the skipper and captain are usually very lovely, most boat trips are more excursions than guided tours. If you want to know more about what you’re looking at, just ask – they will know.
Pack sunscreen. For any day tours, wear sunscreen at least on your face! The reflection off the water is strong.
Most include a welcome drink. Not all, but many do. Some include an open bar of wine and beer.
BYO snacks. Very few include food, but in my experience the captain and skipper don’t mind you bringing food. One even built my charcuterie board for me like a pro!
Some let you BYO alcohol. When I book a private boat with friends, we take our own drinks and snacks. Just no red wine or drinks that will stain.
Take a jacket. Even in peak summer, once the sun is gone it’s cold. Take a jacket for all sunset tours.
Go early for sunset: If you book a private sunset tour, I always make the end time 20-30 minutes before sunset. The sun sets behind Lisbon, so you lose the light faster.

My pick – sailboats and catamarans: Best small-group or private boat tours in Lisbon

Kick back on the hull of a sailboat with a glass of local vinho verde and watch Lisbon float by. In my opinion, the best boat tours in Lisbon are the small-group sailboats and catamarans that seat 10-18 people. You can rent the 10-person size privately for about €350-400 for two hours, or pay more or less €35-50 for a place on the boat (2025 prices).

It’s good fun to be on a boat any time of day, but sunset is obviously a touch more magical as you enjoy a front-row seat to the city’s most famous sights as another day ends. I’ve been out on the Tagus River with a handful of different companies, and all have been good – but my experiences with Enjoy Tagus were always the most memorable.

Small-group Lisbon 2-hour sailboat and catamaran tours

If you’re a couple, a family, or a smaller group of friends I’d lock in a small-group sailboat or catamaran boat tour. This is my favourite way to get out on the river as it’s both intimate and affordable. These tours all go for around two hours unless otherwise stated.

My pick – Sailboat tour with Enjoy Tagus: Choice of morning, afternoon or sunset. Includes a welcome drink. Departs from Doca do Espanhol in Alcântara.
Catamaran sunset boat: 90-minute sunset tour. Includes welcome drink. Departs from Doca de Santo Amaro.
Vintage sailboat tour. Choice of afternoon or sunset. Includes welcome drink and snacks. Departs from Doca de Santo Amaro.
Top-rated sailboat tour: Sunset. Includes a welcome drink and salty snacks. Departs Doca de Alcântara.
Top-rated sailboat tour: Includes two drinks and commentary. Departs Doca de Belém.
Sunset sailboat tour: Includes with a welcome drink. Departs from Doca de Alcântara.
Sailboat tour with River Sailing. Choice of morning, afternoon or sunset. Departs from Doca do Espanhol in Alcântara
Sunset sailboat tour. Includes white wine, port wine or fruit juice. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro.
Sunset catamaran tour: Includes welcome drink. Departs Doca de Alcântara.
Sailboat cruise: Includes drinks and mini charcuterie board. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro. Options for German, French and Spanish speakers.

Private yacht charters in Lisbon

I love to book a 12-person sailboat with friends and spend a summer evening watching the sunset as we cruise around our chosen city. Chartering a yacht means you’ll enjoy a private, tailor-made experience. Many operators offer private charters, and besides having the boat to yourself you’ll be able to bring your own drinks and snacks.

If you have a group of 8+ people, or are looking for a stylish way to toast a special occasion with a loved one – then private is the way to go.

Private sailboat with Enjoy Tagus: 2-hour tour, your choice of start time. Includes a welcome drink. Departs from Doca do Espanhol in Alcântara.
Top-rated private sailboat day or sunset tour: Afternoon includes open bar of sparkling wine and salty snacks. Departs Doca de Alcântara at 2pm.
Private sailboat. Best option for couples! Morning, afternoon or sunset. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro.
Private sailboat for 2-8 hours with Hypa: Go sailing for 2, 4, 6 or 8 hours on a private 36-foot boat. Hypa can organise catering too. Departs Doca de Alcântara.
Private sailboat for 2-3 hours with Bloo: or book a private sunset tour with them. Departs from Doca do Bom Sucesso, Belém.
Private vintage sailboat. Up to 12 people – ideal for a birthday or bachelor party. Departs Doca de Alcântara.
Private catamaran tour: Up to 14 people for 2, 3 or 4 hours. Departs from Doca de Belém.
Private catamaran tour: Up to 18 people for 2 hours. Choose morning, lunch, or afternoon. Departs Doca de Alcântara.
Private half-day catamaran: Up to 18 people. Departs Doca de Alcântara at 2pm. With four hours you can cruise out to the beaches and go swimming.
Private half- or whole-day sailboat: Cruise the coastline between Lisbon and Cascais. Play your own music, bring wine, and enjoy 4-7 hours on the water. Departs Doca do Bom Sucesso.

Larger party boat tours in Lisbon

If you’re celebrating a birthday, have a large group for a bachelor or bachelorette party, or just want to meet other people, then the big party boats are a great option. These are more like a floating bar with live DJs, space to dance, and a bar available for you to kick off the fun.

Lisbon Boat Party: 4-hour sunset party on a big historic ship (the Principe Perfeito). Live DJ playing deep house, techno, R&B, EDM, reggaeton. I’ve been on this boat for a friend’s birthday and it’s good fun! Includes a welcome drink, long drink included, and free club entry after. Departs from Rocha Conde de Óbidos.
Sunset boat party with a DJ: 2-hour party aboard the spacious Evora boat. Upper deck is a party, downstairs is chill. Includes welcome drink. Departs from Rocha Conde de Óbidos.
Sunset boat party: With “hot live DJ” and open bar for a 2.5-hour cruise.
Disco night cruise with open bar: 2-hour cruise kicks off at 9pm with flowing wine, beer and sangria, a live DJ and pumping dancefloor. Perfect club night prelude! Departs from Estação Fluvial Sul e Sueste (Terreiro do Paço).
Chill catamaran boat party: 90-minute sunset tour. Includes welcome drink and music. Departs from Doca de Santo Amaro.

Tagus River hop-on hop-off & tourist boats

A Lisbon boat tour that takes you from A to B to C? Lisbon’s hop-on hop-off boat tours operate much like the double-decker hop-on hop-off bus counterparts. You’ll be able to board and disembark at key waterfront locations such as Terreiro do Paço and Belém. Plus you’ll see the beauty of Lisbon’s landmarks from the water (without having to climb hills or navigate cobblestones). It’s a stress-free way to explore.

Lisboat: Pet-friendly boat stops at Terreiro do Paço, Cais do Sodré & Belém Tower. Get tickets.
Yellow Boat Tour: From the same company as the Yellow Bus hop-on hop-off tours. Boat stops at Terreiro do Paço and Belém MAAT. In between you’ll enjoy a river cruise with audio guide, and the ticket gives you access to the Carris public trams, funiculars, and Santa Justa Lift. Buy tickets.

Besides the two hop-on hop-off boat trips, there are some more touristic boat rides in Lisbon – such as the HippoTrip, an amphibious vehicle that can go on land and into the river. It always makes me laugh seeing the yellow vessel and they promise a “laughter-filled city adventure aboard an amphibious vehicle” over 90 minutes. I think it would be really fun for families. Book it here.

Budget sightseeing Lisbon river cruises

If you’re on a tighter budget, but still want to experience the city from the river – there are soem larger boats or shorter tours that do the job. Try the…

Principe de Beira: fits up to 200 people over three decks.
Cabrio ship: large boat with 90-minute tour.
Tagus River Express Cruise: Choice of a 45-minute sightseeing tour (or 105-minute tour) aboard a traditional painted wooden cargo boat from 1947. It also offers a 2-hour sunset cruise.
Speedboat tour: fast-paced 1-hour boat tour.

Lisbon boat tours with a swim stop or beach hop

It’s pretty rare to find boat tours in Lisbon that allow you to swim. Most carve a two-hour lap of the historic Lisbon, roughly between Praça do Comércio and Belém. But there are a few that head towards the open ocean instead, where the water is clean and clear. Here’s a couple that sound super fun:

BBQ boat cruise to the beach: 3-hour tour includes lunch, open bar and music. Departs from Praça do Comércio.
Catamaran boat party: 3-hour tour includes an hour of open bar. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro.
Private sailboat: 4-7 hours. Cruise between Lisbon and Cascais. Play your own music and bring drinks and snacks. Departs Doca do Bom Sucesso.

Dolphin-watching and wildlife boat tours

Dolphins in the Tagus River? Yep, Lisbon’s wild locals are closer than you think. It’s a rare sight, but I have seen dolphins twice while walking along the riverside in Alcântara. But if you want to catch them up close (and ideally with a marine biologist) you can join a dolphin-watching cruise that will take you to the river mouth and open sea where you can often spot both common and bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.

3-hour dolphin-watching cruise with a marine biologist. Fast rigid inflatable boat. Morning or afternoon. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro.
3-hour dolphin-watching cruise with a marine biologist. Includes coffee and pastel de nata. Fast rigid inflatable boat. Morning or afternoon. Departs Doca de Santo Amaro.
3-hour dolphin-watching cruise. Open bar. Morning or afternoon. Departs Estação Fluvial Sul e Sueste (Terreiro do Paço).

Or for something different…

Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve Birdwatching Boat Tour. Instead of heading towards the ocean, cruise inland to the largest estuary in western Europe. Here a natural reserve of 14,000 hectares counts 200 different species of birds. You’ll be given binoculars. Departs from Onda Lusoamericana.

Other Lisbon boat tours that may interest you

Mamma Mia Disco Boat Tour: yep, it’s a thing! Twice a month across the summer, you can dress up and find your inner Dancing Queen aboard this 2-hour cruise.

Read next… 13 best day trips from Lisbon

Best times of year for boat tours in Lisbon

You can head out on the water any month of the year – though I’d say late spring (April to May), summer (June to August) and early autumn (September to October) are the best months for a Lisbon boat tour. Lisbon can get super busy in the summer months, but if you organise a private sailboat you’ll be away from the crowds – just be sure to book in advance so you don’t miss out.

Can you swim with a boat trip in Lisbon?

Yes and no. The first time I went on a boat tour, I did pack a swimsuit and towel but most boat tours are too short, so you don’t venture out of the river mouth into the open ocean. If you book a half-day boat, you may cruise towards Cascais and those boat trips would definitely include the chance to swim. I’ve included some boat tours that include swim stops above.

Day trips from Lisbon where you can join boat trips

Besides boat trips on the Tagus River, you can board boats in a couple of cool locations close to Lisbon. The easiest to reach is Cascais, a charming seaside town west of Lisbon. Take a train and walk to the marina where boat tours will cruise along the different beaches and coves – expect swim stops.

You can take a train to Setúbal and walk down to the docks to board a boat or dolphin-watching tour around the Sado Estuary and Arrábida Natural Park. Sailing along the rocky coastline and turquoise waters here is insanely beautiful – I’ve also done this many times with friends as it’s more naturally picturesque and you can swim. At the other end of Arrábida Natural Park is the village of Sesimbra, where you can join kayaking trips or boat tours too.

Further afield lie the Berlengas Islands, a protected nature reserve off the coast of Peniche. It’s about a 70-minute drive north of Lisbon. The adventurous boat trip out can be rough, but once on the remote island you can explore sea caves, hiking trails, and a cool fort.

Want help planning your trip to Lisbon? Book a one-on-one video call with Daniela and get custom help organising your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Read next:

The post Best boat tours in Lisbon appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Local’s guide to Lisbon’s best restaurants: 42 great places to eat (2026)

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Sat, 30 Nov 2024 16:27:00 +0000

A perfectly salted fish cooked over coals. A juicy tomato plucked in the peak of summer, drenched in fresh olive oil and tangy white wine vinegar. The crunch of a pastel de nata, still warm from the oven. Portuguese food is a lesson in perfectly executed simplicity.

You eat well in Lisbon, without spending a lot – especially if you like lunch. I can’t get enough of the barebones local places where a lunch menu gives you a meal, soup, coffee, beer or wine, dessert and change from a €10 note. Yes, even in this economy.

Eating out at Lisbon restaurants you’ll find the first European offering from a respected Japanese joint through to Portuguese classics at every price point. Generally speaking, the Portuguese food is excellent and the international food can leave a little bit to be desired but there are shining exceptions to both of those rules.

Portuguese food isn’t easy to sum up in a sentence or two so it’s worth taking a look at my guide to 25 of the most common dishes before you get started.

Tips: table snacks dropped on your table are not free. Ask them to take them away if you don’t want them. Also a “dose” feeds two people, so a half dose is for one. Portuguese maths! When you leave the city, don’t be afraid to try small town tascas – often you’ll eat like royalty.

Favourite restaurants and tascas for Portuguese food in Lisbon

In Australia I loved fine dining and wild new concepts but since moving here in 2018 I prefer to hunt out the local gems and Lisbon restaurants that don’t make the guidebooks or listicles, or chef-owned Lisbon restaurants rediscovering what Portuguese food can be. I’ve split this section into traditional for my favourite basic, classic, no frills spots, and progressive Lisbon restaurants for the local chefs doing nose-to-tail dining or modern Portuguese without the ego.

Lisbon’s best traditional Portuguese restaurants

Ultimo Porto – €€

For the best grilled fish in Lisbon, go to Ultimo Porto. The unusual waterfront restaurant is jammed up against the docks, so don’t be surprised if giant trucks carting shipping containers whiz past a terrace full of suits. It’s all part of the charm. Pick a fish, wait for the grill and tuck in. It’s only open for lunch.

Address: R. Gen. Gomes Araújo 1, 1350-352 Lisboa (Santos)
What to order: grilled fish and amêijoas à bulhão pato (clams with garlic and coriander)
Reservations: By phone, recommended

Note: It’s tricky to find this spot by car as Google Maps leads you astray. I recommend going to “Rocha do Conde d’Óbidos” and crossing the pedestrian-only swing bridge of the same name. On weekends that swing bridge is permanently left open, so you’ll have to gothe long way around on Saturdays.

O Tachadas – €€

At the front of this tiny tasca, the grill chef’s eyes barely stray from whatever telenovela or old movie is on the TV as he flips steaks, squid and pork chops over the flames. O Tachadas is a typical old-fashioned tasca and I love it. We like to come for a giant T-bone steak the size of your (rather large) plate. Be prepared for the “whack, whack, whack” as your €16ish cut of steak is hacked off the bone on a chopping block right next to the grill.

Address: Rua da Esperança 178, 1200-808 Lisboa (Santos)
What to order: costeleta de novilho (the steak), bacalhau à Bras (codfish with potato and egg)
Reservations: By phone, recommended

Note: The Portuguese tend to leave steak a little on the rare side (which I love) so you may have to send it back for a second grilling if you like anything beyond medium rare.

Tasquinha do Lagarto – €

Open since 1973, this tasca started as a café and snack bar with games tables and has since become one of Lisbon’s best addresses. The first thing you’ll notice in Tasquinha do Lagarto is the sports paraphernalia lining every wall, particularly that of Lisbon’s football team Sporting. Inside the menu is short but well priced. I’ve tried almost all of it and every visit the food has been fantastic.

Address: R. de Campolide 258, Lisboa (Campolide)
What to order: atum cebolada (tuna and onions), polvo á lagaeiro (baked octopus with potatoes)
Reservations: by phone

Zé da Mouraria – €

Bring friends when you dine at Zé da Mouraria. And don’t turn up for dinner, like we did the first three times (whoops). At first glance, the prices seem steeper than other spots, but order a meal and they’ll deliver an entire frying pan or dinner tray of food. My guess is one dish is enough to feed three. Unless you want to follow in the footsteps of a solo diner we watched quickly make new friends when his family sized meal arrived.

Address: R. João do Outeiro 24, 1100-292 Lisboa (Mouraria) + now a second and third location.
What to order: bacalhau com grão (salted cod with chickpeas)
Reservations: Call ahead – numbers here

➼ Want someone to shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls and can plan your perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

Zé dos Cornos – €

Ribs, ribs, ribs. They do them savoury style in Portugal, garlicky and salty instead of drowned in barbecue sauce. Share a rack straight off the charcoal grill for €12 with a tomato salad and bean rice. Zé dos Cornos ticks all the tasca (cheap restaurant) boxes. There are tiles on the wall, paper tablecloths, the news or football on the TV and an owner/chef/waiter that shows his love for his regulars by teasing them relentlessly. There’s always a line but (as with most places) they’ll happily serve you beers while you wait on the street. And we all know that a queue with a beer is basically a bar anyway.

Address: Beco Surradores 5, 1100-591 Lisboa (Mouraria)
What to order: Piano (ribs)
Reservations: Show up early or prepare to wait

Zé is short for José, a name that is very popular generally and apparently even more popular in Lisbon among chefs and restaurant owners.

Casa do Alentejo – €

This cultural club set in a historic palace is an ode to my favourite region of Portugal. It happens to be hidden in plain sight on one of Lisbon’s most touristic streets. Some in-the-know tourists may pause and pop their heads in to snap pictures of the spectacular courtyard, straight out of Morocco, but they’re missing the best part. Let the small plates stack up as you knock back beers in the courtyard of the Tavern at Casa do Alentejo and prepare for the (pleasant) surprise when you see your bill at the end. For something more formal or spectacular, head upstairs to the restaurant where ornate banquet halls and reasonably priced traditional meals beckon.

Address: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 58, 1150-268 Lisboa (Restauradores/Rossio)
What to order: migas (bread mash), flaming chorizo
Reservations: You can book the upstairs restaurant (also gorgeous) online, or call the tavern for an inside table. They don’t take terrace bookings.

Solar dos Nunes — €€/€€€

Solar dos Nunes is a Lisbon institution open since 1988, which becomes apparent when you step inside the front door to find a cosy space with white tablecloths and photo frames covering every wall. This Portuguese restaurant specialises in Alentejo cuisine, and it’s picked up many awards and had many celebrity faces pass through. It has an old-world European feel, the sort of place to expect a business lunch to stretch out past 4pm. On the menu you’ll find everything from fan favourites to obscure recipes. Most importantly, it often has sericaia, my favourite dessert.

Address: R. dos Lusíadas 68, 1300-366 Lisboa (Alcântara)
What to order: delicious presunto, stewed boar
Reservations: By phone or online, recommended

Vida de Tasca – €

Vida de Tasca was my most anticipated Lisbon restaurant opening for 2024. In a city where ramen and burger bars are swallowing up old classics at an alarming rate Chef Leonor Godinho opened up a new tasca (local tavern) in the bones of Casa Alberto. The place is an ode to tasca culture, and little more has been done than a lick of paint on the chairs. As a trained chef, Godinho adds those small touches to serve cooked-to-order croquettes and pasteís de bacalhau alongside a short menu with two daily specials, where you’ll always find Lisbon’s favourite dish, the bitoque (thin steak with fried egg and sauce).

Address: R. Moniz Barreto 7, 1700-306 Lisboa (Roma)
What to order: bitoque (thin steak with egg
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone

Ramiro – €€€

Before your beer has finished a waiter drops another in front of you. Fortunate, because you’re doing serious manual labour for your meal, with a small hammer bang-bang-banging crab legs open to reach the tender flesh. Ramiro, the most famous Lisbon seafood restaurant, isn’t a quiet date night. It’s the sort of place to take friends and share bowls of clams swimming in olive oil, garlic and coriander or experience the life-changing sweetest of a carabineiro (scarlet prawn). Cheap, no. Worth it, yes.

Address: Av. Alm. Reis 1 H, 1150-007 Lisboa (Intendente)
What to order: seafood by weight – try the carabineiro (scarlet prawn)
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone, or show up and wait

Read next… How to spend 48 hours in Lisbon

Ramiro

Limpets at Espaco Acores

Espaco Açores – €€

If you can’t make it to the islands of the Azores, eating the food is the next best thing. An Azorean friend took us to Espaco Açores and it opened my mind a little, even after briefly visiting the spectacular Atlantic archipelago. If you’ve visited any of the Azorean islands or Madeira you’ll know how great lapas grelhadas (grilled limpets) are. Don’t miss the chance to try the polvo guisado (octopus stew) either.

Address: Largo da Boa-Hora à Ajuda 19, 1300-098 Lisboa (Ajuda)
What to order: limpets, polvo guisado (octopus stew)
Reservations: It’s possible to book online or walk in.

O Lutador – €/€€

O Lutador is my local terrace bar and tasca where it’s fun to drop in for a cheeky bifana and imperial (that’s a pork sandwich and baby beer). In summer, locals stretch out here with plates of tiny snails, pica-pau and beer. The meals at this Lisbon restaurant are mostly under €15, but the snack game here is their strong suit.

Address: R. da Junqueira 1C, 1300-383 Lisboa (Alcântara)
What to order: pica pau (chopped steak in gravy with pickles), arroz de lingueirão (razor clam rice)
Reservations: Go early for a terrace table, or book online

Heading to Porto? Read my guide on where to eat in Porto and discover Porto’s best coffee shops.

Carvoaria Jacto – €€/€€€

Don’t take your vegetarian friends to Carvoaria Jacto, a Lisbon steak institution that opened in 1953. Back then it would have been a tiny carvoaria or shop that sold coal. These days it’s a huge steak temple where the best cuts are seasoned and grilled over charcoal. In a sense the product has changed, but the soul and address is the same. While you’re going here for the (steak examples), the side of mushroom risotto is unmissable. Book ahead!

Address: R. Maria Andrade 6A, 1170-216 Lisboa (Anjos)
What to order: steak, the best you can afford
Reservations: Book ahead!

Ponto Final – €€

Ponto Final

You come here for the unforgettable view but fortunately the food is good too. You’ll need to take a 10-minute ferry ride to the south bank of the river and walk past the graffiti-covered abandoned warehouses that line the water. Definitely book a table (at least a month or two) ahead at Ponto Final to get a primo spot on the pier for sunset drinks and dinner with magical views across the water to Lisbon and out to sea. Apparently you can show up and queue for a while if you fail to book.

Address: R. do Ginjal 72, 2800-285 Almada (Cacilhas)
What to order: fish rice, grilled fish
Reservations: Book months in advance! You can also try Atira-te ao Rio next door, which has a terrace with the same view.

Honestly this is just the beginning of my list of the best local and traditional restaurants to eat at in Lisbon. For extended reading, bookmark or pin my favourite 34 tascas in Lisbon and discover the best old-school, cheap eats.

Lisbon’s best progressive or modern Portuguese restaurants

Canalha – €€/€€€

If you’re a bit of a food nerd and a fan of chefs (guilty) then you have to get a table at Canalha. Top Portuguese chef João Rodrigues said goodbye to the two-star Michelin restaurant where he worked to embark on a year-long project popping up once a month in different regions of Portugal. It was an insanely ambitious and successful project, connecting local chefs and producers with mad food lovers. On his return he opened Canalha, which is run by chef Lívia Orofino.

At its heart, Canalha might be best described as a produce-driven Portuguese bistro. I recall him describing it as a neighbourhood spot where you could spend €20 to €200, so everyone is welcome. Like traditional Portuguese tascas you’ll find a daily menu with well-priced dishes of the day. Then there’s a menu of seasonally changing dishes, and finally you can choose from what’s come in with the fisherman. That’s where you’ll do damage to the credit card! Book ahead.

Address: R. da Junqueira 207, 1300-338 Lisboa (Belém)
What to order: Daily specials, carabineiro (scarlet prawn) pasta, anything in season
Reservations: Book ahead online or by phone

O Velho Eurico – €

We first discovered O Velho Eurico when it was a killer, old-school tasca with some of the best polvo a lagareiro (olive oil octopus) and bacalhau no forno (baked salted cod) around. The owner retired, the name stayed and a surprise meal of petiscos (small plates like tapas) appeared one day with the 21-year-old Zé Paulo Rocha at the helm. At the new-old Eurico a hand-written chalkboard displays traditional dishes, cooked and eaten by parents, grandparents and great grandparents across Portugal, now made here buzzing with attitude. It’s one of Lisbon’s best modern Portuguese taverns or restaurants, so book ahead.

O Velho Eurico

Address: Largo São Cristóvão nº3, 1100-179 Lisboa (Castelo/Baixa)
What to order: Lamb croquettes, arroz de pato, chambão sandwich….
Reservations: Essential. Book online months ahead… or show up just before opening and queue. I believe they keep some tables free and only book the first seating, so when tables turn over you’ll get one.

Taberna Sal Grosso – €

Eating here is always great, but somehow everything tastes even best when you book the big table and order everything on the menu at Taberna Sal Grosso. A big black chalkboard dictates the dishes of the moment – usually small and medium-sized plates with everything from tuna pica pau to fried quail to sweet ribs. The food has a distinctively Portuguese root, but it’s more influenced by the world than other modern taverns in Lisbon.

Address: Calçada do Forte 22, 1100-256 Lisboa (Alfama) & R. Correia Garção 15, 1200-640 Lisboa (São Bento)
What to order: Fried baby squid, bacalhau (salted cod), lamb sandwich
Reservations: Essential – book online.

Corrupio – €€

It was love at first sight when I entered Corrupio, a downtown Portuguese diner centred around a huge central bar. Even with groups of three or four I prefer to sit at the bar here as you can watch the chefs at work – putting modern spins on traditional Portuguese dishes – and eat atop a piece of art (tile art, no less). To round it out they play good Portuguese music and serve wines from smaller local producers. Two favourites of mine are the corvina (croaker) rice and the octopus salad.

Address: R. Moeda 1 F/G, 1200-275 Lisboa (Cais do Sodré)
What to order: Octopus salad, corvina rice
Reservations: Best to book online.

Obra – €€

Located along Lisbon’s luscious Green Street, Obra is a gem hiding in plain sight. The menu, with roots in Portuguese cooking, is designed to share. Yet the portions are generous – so bring a few friends! The prawn brioche, a sandwich stuffed with creamy camarão, is a new classic, and I loved the rich depth of the octopus rice. There seemed to be a good number of vegetarian dishes too in case you’re with a vegetarian friend.

Address: R. da Silva 21, 1200-446 Lisboa (“Green Street”, Santos)
What to order: Prawn brioche sandwich, octopus rice
Reservations: Book via Instagram if you can

Taberna da Rua das Flores – €€

Sardines at Taberna da Rua das Flores

Huge prawns at Taberna da Rua das Flores

I hate queues so I rarely make it to this beautiful restaurant, Taberna da Rua das Flores, which seems to be firmly on the tourist radar as one of Lisbon’s best restaurants. Opened by the brilliant André Magalhães, this was the first of Lisbon’s modern tavern movement, serving delicious traditional dishes with a chef touch in a casual setting. Here you’ll find a menu of top quality local produce used to create both Portuguese plates and dishes inspired by the world. The blackboard changes seasonally, so you never know what will be on offer – but if there scallops are there, don’t miss them.

Address: Rua das Flores 103 109, 1200-194 Lisboa (Chiado)
What to order: Scallops, whatever sounds good on the blackboard
Reservations: Not possible – go early

➼ Wish someone could shortcut your Portugal research? ➼ Talk to me – I offer 1:1 video calls to help people cut through the noise and plan a perfect Portugal itinerary. Find out more here.

ZunZum – €€

Portugal’s top female chef, Marlene Vieira, is behind ZunZum, a clean and modern gastrobar. The former MasterChef judge is best known for elevating Portuguese cuisine to another level and highlights classic Portuguese ingredients in fresh, modern ways. Better yet, the bar mixes a great cocktail and there’s a grocer to take home Portuguese goods.

Address: Terminal de Cruzeiros de Lisboa, Av. Infante D. Henrique Doca, R. do Jardim do Tabaco do, 1100-651 Lisboa (Alfama)
What to order: The menu changes season-to-season, go at lunch for the well-priced daily special
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Read next… Best boat tours in Lisbon

Brilhante – €€€

For a touch of old-world European dining with a Portuguese twist, try Brilhante. Dare I say this plush red-velvet, gold and leather-clad diner – where life revolves around the bar or in a cosy booth – would make for a brilliant date night. Chef Luís Gaspar has designed a deluxe menu that pays homage to 19th-century Lisbon cafés, with a classic steak (served with a creamy peppery sauce) at the menu’s heart. Beyond that you can indulge with lobster rice, caviar, beef tartare, foie gras and more.

Address: R. Moeda 1G, 1200-066 Lisboa (Cais do Sodré)
What to order: bife à Brilhante (the signature steak), lobster rice
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Alma – €€€€ **

Alma

With two Michelin stars, chef Henrique Sá Pessoa’s Alma isn’t your everyday diner. There are two tasting menus: one that highlight classic Portuguese flavours, and the other that heroes the coast. With a dining partner you can do both and experience the best of the two. There’s also a la carte if you’re after a real treat yo’self lunch with mains around €40. As you’d expect at a Michelin-starred spot, the service is top, the snacks are great and the wine-list is long.

Address: R. Anchieta 15, 1200-224 Lisboa (Chiado)
What to order: Tasting menu
Reservations: Required

Taberna Albricoque – €€

A stunning century-old dining room meets progressive Portuguese snacks at Taberna Albricoque. This restaurant, opened in 2019 by talented local chef Bertílio Gomes dishes up plates and petiscos inspired by the Algarve region in the south of Portugal. Here you’ll find cockle-filled pastries, oysters from the Ria Formosa and razor clams swimming in garlic and olive oil. It’s a gem next to Lisbon’s Santa Apolonia, where you’ll take a train to Porto, and right by Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest suburb and a place I associate with old ladies and hordes of tourists. Luckily it’s anything but generic.

Address: Rua dos Caminhos de Ferro nº98, 1100-395 Lisboa (Alfama/Santa Apolonia)
What to order: rissol de berbigão (signature cockle pastry) and anything seafood
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

Pigmeu – €€

This nose-to-tail pig concept run by local chef Miguel Azevedo Peres is all about pig. The Pigmeu menu nails the perfect mix of traditional and inventive and the bifana is killer, served in a gravy. During the snail season the bacon fat (toucinho) the chef uses really takes the summer staple to a new level. The testicles pica pau? Well, it’s not a favourite version of that dish, but certainly worth trying. The wine list also extends to a few natural and organic options you’re not likely to find at the average tasca.

Address: R. 4 de Infantaria 68, 1350-274 Lisboa (Campo de Ourique)
What to order: The bifana, don’t miss it
Reservations: Book ahead if you can, try a walk-in if not

O Frade – €€

Right now I’m loving the bold class of young Portuguese chefs pushing boundaries within their own cuisine. Cousins Carlos Afonso and Sérgio Frade’s progressive take on Alentejo flavours at O Frade earned them a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2020. Everything is fantastic, but definitely order one of the killer rice dishes: rice with lobster, rice with corvina fish, rice with duck.

My favourite restaurants for non-Portuguese food in Lisbon

Rosetta’s – €€

It was unexpected love at first bite in Rosetta’s, a tiny produce-driven share-plate restaurant in Bairro Alto. To be honest, I entered with suspicion – in 2024 Lisbon received a huge wave of contemporary share plate spots where you’ll pay too much for very little, but to Rosetta’s I tip my hat. The dish I saw blowing up on Instagram was the crumbed Milanesa with a zesty pea salad, but that was our lowlight. Every other dish – the grilled peaches with burrata, the zucchini fritters with dill, the clams with beurre blanc and smoked ham – were 10/10. Great wine selection too, though on the pricier end.

Address: R. da Rosa 39, 1200-190 Lisboa (Bairro Alto)
What to order: The menu changes season-to-season, but everything was excellent
Reservations: Book ahead online

Paloma Negra – €/€€

I’m a harsh taco critic after a recent trip to Mexico – and I’m happy to report I’ve cancelled my cheap flight alerts thanks to Paloma Negra. This little neighbourhood taqueria feels authentic and fun. The margs are strong, the tacos come fast – so order slowly. Go early enough to get one of the plastic tables in the small courtyard out back. I’m still trying to choose my favourite order – the al pastor, birria, carnitas and fried prawn are all really good. As is the aguachile and the oyster shots.

Address: R. Washington 98A, Lisboa (Penha da Franca)
What to order: Tacos, tacos, tacos
Reservations: Not possible

Panda Cantina – €

Panda Cantina

This Chinese canteen only serves one dish: Chinese ramen. And as you’d expect from a spot with just one dish, Panda Cantina does it really damn well. Have your soup/ramen with pork, beef or tofu (beef is best) and pick a spice level from one to five. Spice wise, I’m a three and Jorge is a four. We’ve both spent plenty of time giggling at Europeans who find paprika or ginger spicy, so be warned that a five is seriously hot. Great spot for lunch or cheap dinner – it’s around €10.50 a bowl. Go early and expect to queue.

Address: There are now 4 locations around town: Baixa, Chiado, Principe Real and Marques
What to order: Beef ramen is my favourite
Reservations: Not possible

Read next… Where to eat in Baixa, Lisbon

Bom Bom Bom – €/€€

This spot is more of a vinyl and wine bar than a bistro, so I was pretty impressed by their short yet fantastic menu. There’s a blackboard with a selection of snacky, seasonal dishes such as burrata with strawberries and fennel, or cured horse mackerel in cucumber aguachile. Bom Bom Bom has great wines and an amazing vibe too, obviously.

Address: R. Angelina Vidal 5, 1170-166 Lisboa (Graça)
What to order: Blackboard of changing specials – have trust and try it all
Reservations: Possible for dinner by phone

Tozzi – €

Tozzi is not-your-average pizza bar. Here you might find a margarita and diavola, but the other pizzas are topped with wild combinations like pork sausage, scamorza cheese, fermented mustard and dill microgreens. That said, the most important thing is the crust and at Tozzi find long-fermented dough that’s thin and crispy with a puffy crust.

Address: R. Latino Coelho 69A, 1050-132 Lisboa (Saldanha)
What to order: Pizza, your choice
Reservations: Recommended

Lupita is also truly, truly fantastic for pizza, but waiting 45-minutes for a pizza or table isn’t so fun. Jezzus Pizzaria is also great, and Rico Pizza does perfect NY style pizza.

BouBou’s – €€€€

For an off-beat fine dining experience, the more relaxed BouBou’s is a gem in Lisbon’s Príncipe Real neighborhood. Ask for a table in the courtyard and enjoy a tasting menu designed by chef Louise Bourrat, who was winner of the French TV show Top Chef in 2022. You’ll have the choice of two tasting menus, each with 10 moments that makes the most of seasonality, aims for zero waste, and glorifies vegetables (in interesting ways) where possible.

Address: R. Latino Coelho 69A, 1050-132 Lisboa (Saldanha)
What to order: tasting menu
Reservations: Recommended

Vibe – €€€€

Another one for fine dining lovers, VIBE in Chiado is a fun Michelin-recommended experience by Italian-born chef Mattia Stanchieri. The menu – and cuisine – changes every four or five months, presenting an entirely new experience. I sat down in the moody dining room during Chapter 3: Thailand, which mixed Thai inspiration with European techniques and Portuguese tastes. The bread with sardine naam phrik dip? Fantastic, as was the pad Thai made with squid noodles, and a deconstructed mango sticky rice.

You have a choice of 7-course, 9-course and 12-course menus. Each plate has a matching card, found in a little box on the table, that tells a story about the dish, inspiration, or origins. With the smaller tasting menu priced at €80, this is one of the best-value fine dining experiences in Lisbon (for now).

Address: R. Horta Seca 5 B, 1200-221 Lisboa (Chiado)
What to order: 7-course, 9-course and 12-course tasting menus
Reservations: Recommended

Guelra – €€

I’ve long been a fan of O Frade, one of Lisbon’s first new wave of taverns to reinvent traditional Portuguese cuisine (while not straying too far from the path). From the same owner comes Guelra, a fish-focused diner that has creativity at the forefront. Set in Belém, it’s a refreshing addition to the restaurant scene near one of Portugal’s most important monuments – Jeronymo’s Monastery. I really love the interior, especially the bar, and it’s here I’d come to enjoy a wine paired with some of the curious seafood snacks, from Bacalhau³ (salted cod three ways) to a tuna katsu sandwich.

Bar Alimentar – €€

This buzzy Lisbon restaurant is one of the most fun places to eat in Lisbon right now – as you’d expect from a spot that is a collab between a top chef and creative bartenders. The chef at Tricky’s, João Magalhães Correia, joined forces with Imprensa, one of the best cocktail and oyster bars in the city. Bar Alimentar has the fun vibe of a bar and creative, modern share plates that lean into Italian and Portuguese flavours. Really good.

Address: Rua Nova da Piedade 62, 1200-299 Lisboa (Príncipe Real)
What to order: Bacalhau (salted codfish) cannoli; octopus fregola.
Reservations: Essential, book online.

Pausa by Ruvida – €/€€

For really fantastic pasta, Pausa is one of my favourites. This is the more casual focaccia wine bar connected to Ruvida, an off-beat Italian restaurant that is known for doing it all from scratch (and making pasta with the rolling pin). At Pausa you’ll find a menu of seriously good Italian charcuterie, focaccia pizzas, and simple and classic pastas. The pasta is served in a frying pan with a couple of wedges of focaccia so you can “scarpetta” any leftover sauce. Reasonably priced nice wines too!

Address: R. de Cascais 15 (Alcântara) and R. de São João da Praça (Alfama)
What to order: pasta or charcuterie
Reservations: Easy for walk ins

Zula Bistro – €€

This little Middle Eastern-ish bistro is perfect for a cosy-yet-chic date night when you want something different. We had a fantastic beef tartare with potato latkes and a tahini aioli, lamb kebabs with harissa and potato gratin, and fillets of dourada (sea bass) with green orzo and dried lemon. There is a handful of outdoor tables in a very charming Lisbon square beside a historic fountain.

Address: Rua da Esperança 6, 1200-267 Lisboa (Santos)
What to order: A bit of everything
Reservations: Recommended, especially for the terrace

Hachi Kare-Ya – €/€€

For Japanese curry in Lisbon there is no better spot than Hachi Kare-Ya. You’ll get an excellent curry with breaded chicken, pork or prawns, and even a tornado egg omelette over rice. Cheap, cheerful and really good. I just need to remember to ask them not to put sweet agridoce sauce on the meat.

Address: R. Frei Francisco Foreiro 8, 1150-166 Lisboa (Anjos), now with a second location in Alameda
What to order: Japanese curry
Reservations: Recommended but not essential

Kefi Greek Bistro – €€

This modern Greek bistro comes to us from the people behind two of Lisbon’s great brunch spots (Seagull Method and Heim). What that means is excellent, well-plated food, affordable prices and a gorgeous space. Kefi is all about aesthetics with an interior entirely coated in sandstone tones and pops of that bright cobalt blue we all associate with Greece. The food is more Mediterranean with a Greek root, plated to please but not lacking in flavour. Best of all, it’s well-priced and ready to share.

Address: Calçada da Estrela 187, 1200-665 Lisboa (Estrela)
What to order: Everything is excellent
Reservations: Recommended

AnNam – €

AnNam

Vietnamese cuisine is a rare find in Lisbon and this newcomer is great for when cravings hit. Specialising in street food, AnNam is a super casual spot with bun cha, bo bun, pho and bahn mi, plus you can order off menu if there’s a Vietnamese dish you miss.

Address: R. de Santa Marta 2 2A, 1150-295 Lisboa (Avenida Liberdade)
What to order: Bo bun or pho
Reservations: Go early at lunch, it’s small

Krua Thai – €

It’s Friday night and I don’t feel like cooking? Back in Australia I’d call my local Thai restaurant for an excellent pad thai and duck basil. That hasn’t been possible in Lisbon until now. Krua Thai is – by far – the best Thai food I’ve found in the city. This takeaway-only window offers all the Thai favourites (and then some) for under €10 a dish.

Address: R. das Farinhas 8, 1100-179 Lisboa (Mouraria)
What to order: Pad see ew, green curry
Reservations: take away only

Taberna do Mar – €€/€€€

The grilled sardine nigiri hold a special place in my mind (and heart) and I think of them often. Chef Filipe Rodrigues, who runs this small restaurant, invented this bite – the perfect combination of Japan and Portugal – while working at Sea Me (one of Lisbon’s best seafood restaurants), and now serves it in the well-priced fishy tasting menu that includes (I believe) 10 bites for around €40. The hack my friends do is order a double serve of the sardine nigiri, because one is just never enough.

Address: Calçada da Graça 20 B, 1100-266 Lisboa (Graça)
What to order: Tasting menu with extra nigiri
Reservations: Essential

My “to-eat” list

I’m a last-minute planner by nature and my brain doesn’t really function when I’m hungry, which means my to-eat file keeps growing as I fall back on the same places. I’m publishing my current Lisbon restaurants “to-eat list” as much to remind myself to check these places out as to give you a few more potential options. I can promise that these spots are (probably) fantastic.

Solar dos Presuntos
Sala de João Sa
Plano
ISCO
ARCA
Old House
Feitoria
Tati
Essencial
Fogo

Frequently asked questions about eating out in Lisbon….

What are typical dishes and good places to eat in Lisbon, Portugal?

Step outside and you’ll find great places to eat all across the city. I suggest starting any visit to Lisbon with a local tasca – that’s a humble Portuguese bistro or tavern, and I’ve rounded up my favourite here. This is where you’ll find the locals with authentic traditional Portuguese food – if the menu is scrawled on a paper table in Portuguese only, you’ve found the opposite of a tourist trap.

What are the best street foods to try in Lisbon?

Bifanas, pasteis de bacalhau, ginjinha…. I’ve listed the best street food in Lisbon (and where to find it) here.

What are some good and cheap places to eat in Lisbon, Portugal?

Anywhere that’s a tasca is good and cheap, especially at lunch. Around the city there are some cheap-and-cheerful spots – scroll up and look for places with one euro sign €.

What are the best seafood restaurants in Lisbon?

Ramiro, listen above, would come out on top when it comes to seafood restaurants. In Portuguese you can search for “marisqueira” or “cervejaria” and you’ll find places that specialise in seafood, particularly prawns, shellfish, oysters etc sold by weight. You’ll find grilled fish on any traditional menu.

Loved this list of Lisbon’s best restaurants? Leave me a comment!

Keep reading…

The post Local’s guide to Lisbon’s best restaurants: 42 great places to eat (2026) appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Pastel de nata cooking class: Best workshops in Lisbon & Porto

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:43:00 +0000

If you’ve become obsessed with Portugal’s pastéis de natas (Portuguese custard tarts) then you have two options:

Eat as many as you can while here. Try to beat my friends Tom and Mila who hold the current record among my visitors for most tarts consumed per day (2.7, FYI – find the best with my Lisbon pastéis guide).
Join a pastéis de nata cooking class and learn how to make them yourself. Join a pastry workshop and you’ll take a piece of the magic home with you.

If you’re interested in learning the secrets behind this irresistible Portuguese pastry (and potentially learn to bake other traditional desserts), read on to find the many hands-on pastéis de nata classes found across Lisbon and Porto.

No time to read the whole article? No worries

My top picks for Lisbon – Book this top-rated class with Compadre where you make both tarts and a traditional savoury snack too, or this top-rated relaxed two-hour class with HomeCooking. Vegan? This is the pick.

My top pick for Porto – Book this two-hour pastel de nata baking class where you’ll learn grandma’s recipe.

My top pick for Algarve – In Lagos? Book this two-hour pastel de nata baking class.

What is a pastel de nata?

It’s a flaky, buttery, creamy gift from the heavens. The origin of the tart is connected to Lisbon’s Jerónimos Monastery, where it’s said monks invented the sweet. They sold the recipe on to Pastéis de Belém, a bakery located about 100 metres from the church that’s kept the exact recipe under lock-and-key since 1837.

If you visit Lisbon, you have to make a pilgrimage to Belém to taste the OG at the source. You can learn more about the history of the pastel de nata here.

From an eating and baking perspective, the anatomy of a pastel de nata comes down to two parts – and one is not greater than the other. If the flaky, butter pastry that coils at the bottom is soft or unstable, the pastry is bad. Same goes for if the custard isn’t up to scratch – too sweet or wrong consistency.

With these pastel de nata baking workshops in Lisbon, Porto and beyond you’ll learn tips and tricks to make sure you nail both when working in home kitchens with home ovens.

Can you make pastéis de nata in a home kitchen?

Yes, but it won’t taste as good as in Portugal. Something about the magical light, relaxed holiday vibe, and the pretty tiled buildings to photograph as the backdrop.

But, if you return home with the skills to whip up a dozen pastéis de nata from scratch you’ll be very popular with your family and friends. There’s nothing like eating one that’s still warm.

Most professional bakeries have super hot ovens that bake the tarts in a flash. Home ovens can’t quite compete, but with a hands-on class you’ll pick up tips and tricks for home chefs with regular home ovens.

Related read: The best pastéis de nata in Lisbon

What is the price of a baking class?

Typically, it seems the cost for a Portuguese custard tart baking class is around €50-60 per person. I’ve seen a couple that are cheaper, and a few that are more. Most of the inclusions are the same – a two-hour class with a glass or port wine or ginjinha, a local liqueur.

Top pastel de nata classes in Lisbon

Book the most popular Portuguese custard tart workshop in Lisbon direct (or with GetYourGuide via the widget below).

Read on to find a full list of pastry class options – I’ve done deep research to find the best workshops in Lisbon.

In this two-hour pastel de nata cooking class you’ll make everything—including the pastry—from scratch plus a traditional treat, cod fritters.
Join this tried-and-tested top-rated two-hour pastel de nata baking class with drinks – I sent my friends to this class and they loved it. I got to taste the result and it was 10/10.
Pastel de nata workshop at a real bakery. Learn the art of baking with chef João Batalha at an authentic bakery in the heart of Lisbon.
Lisbon Cooking Academy offers both a regular class or a vegan pastel de nata pastry class – and you’ll learn to make the puff pastry from scratch.
Learn traditional methods and home-kitchen variations with this Portuguese custard tart cooking class
In this top-rated pastéis de nata cooking workshop you’ll whip up the eggy treats in two hours.
Visit a small local sweets shop and cafe, Casa dos Ovos Moles, for this hands-on class with port wine or gijinha included.

Porto’s best pastel de nata workshops

Want me to choose for you? Book this 90-minute class – the most-booked pastel de nata baking class in Porto.

More pastry class options in Porto:

Two-hour pastel de nata baking class where you’ll learn grandma’s recipe.
A top-rated class where you’ll enjoy a port wine or mimosa too! Families with young children can book it as a private class.
This 2.5-hour Portuguese custard tart class guarantees that you’ll make the pastry from scratch.
A cheaper 90-minute Portuguese custard tart class with Domus Arte with port wine.
Deep in the suburbs of Porto you’ll learn to make pastéis with Joana in her home kitchen.
Join Virginia in her home kitchen and learn to bake pastel de nata.

Pastéis baking classes in the Algarve and Madeira

If you’re on the southern Algarve coast, there’s a top-rated two-hour pastel de nata baking class in the town of Lagos.

Or on Madeira Island, try this two-hour pastel pastry class that’s rated 4.9 on TripAdvisor.

Beyond the pastel de nata…. Other traditional sweet cooking workshops in Lisbon and Porto

Yes, Portugal has plenty of other sweets! In fact, there’s a traditional sweet for basically every village in Portugal – usually made with some combination of eggs, sugar, cinnamon, lemon and almonds. We’re talking hundreds of recipes unique to Portugal – the custard tart is just the most famous!

If you want to dive deeper than Lisbon’s pastel de nata you can you try these other classes.

This Portuguese Dessert Workshop in Porto will teach you three popular desserts. Go beyond pastel de nata and learn to make brisas do lis, queijadas, and pastéis de feijão at a local’s home using her grandmother’s recipes.
Learn to bake two traditional Portuguese sweets with this hands-on workshop in Lisbon. You’ll get to choose, but will likely make Travesseiros de Sintra!

FAQs about Portugal’s pastéis de nata workshops

Can kids join a pastel de nata class?

Yes! Most classes are family-friendly – naturally kids love getting their hands messy with pastry dough. When booking, see if tickets are offered for children – that should indicate kids are allowed. Some small-group classes are restricted to ages 15 up (but offer private classes to families) so read the fine print.

Are there vegan or gluten-free options?

Vegan pastel de nata is slowly becoming an option — this vegan pastel de nata cooking class is one of the few focused onh plant-based versions. Gluten-free is a no-go at the moment, since puff pastry is such a key element. If you have dietary restrictions, reach out to the instructor in advance to see what’s possible.

What should I bring or wear?

Keep it casual! Think comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting a dusting of flour or splash of custard on. Closed shoes are better in a kitchen. Cooking schools usually provide aprons, utensils and all the ingredients.

How long does a class usually take?

Most pastel de nata workshops run for about 1.5–2.5 hours. That’s enough time to learn the technique, bake your batch, and of course, eat them warm from the oven.

What language are the classes taught in?

Almost all classes are taught in English, and since this is an English-language website I’ve featured classes that will be held in English. Some teachers may also speak Portuguese, Spanish or French too.

Do I get to take some pastel de nata home?

Usually, yes! Most classes let you box up the extra tarts you’ve baked. That said, they’re at their absolute best straight from the oven – you’ll eat more than you save.

How far in advance should I book?

If you’re visiting Lisbon, book at least 1-2 weeks ahead – especially in peak season, as spots sell out quickly. In Porto, you might snag a spot last-minute, but it’s always safer to book early if you have a fixed itinerary (especially in the summer months).

That’s my guide to the best pastéis de nata cooking workshops in Lisbon, Porto, Algarve and Madeira. Read my guide covering where to eat the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon, and leave me a comment if you take a class! I’d love to hear about your experiences….

Keep reading about Lisbon….

The post Pastel de nata cooking class: Best workshops in Lisbon & Porto appeared first on Olá Daniela.

My favourite tascas in Lisbon: Where to eat traditional Portuguese food

Daniela Sunde-Brown — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 07:27:00 +0000

Every Lisboeta grew up eating at tascas, and so every local has a favourite hidden gem or secret spot in their Lisbon neighbourhood. A tasca is essentially a Portuguese bistro. They are cheap, family run and you can enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal with wine, snacks and dessert for €10 to €20 most of the time.

Tascas are the beating heart of Portuguese cuisine, and something that seems to unite people of all social classes. I find there is so much variety in Portuguese gastronomy, and tascas are the humble tables where you get to eat like the locals, with the locals.

Portuguese people are extraordinarily proud of their culinary heritage. It makes writing a definitive list of the best tascas in Lisbon a seemingly impossible task. So that’s not what this is. This is a list of my favourite tascas in Lisbon that I’ve enjoyed visiting over the past six years or so.

When I first moved to Lisbon I picked up a fantastic book by local food writer Tiago Pais who has written a definite list of the 50 Best Tascas in Lisbon. While it’s a few years old now, and some tables have shut their doors, I call it my Lisbon bible and I can still highly recommend getting a copy.

Tips and rules for enjoying a Portuguese tasca

Don’t be the tourist that leaves Google reviews complaining about sassy service and being charged for snacks at tascas without understanding the culture of these cheap, homely Portuguese diners. When you sit down, the waiter will throw a bunch of snacks down – olives, bread, maybe some croquettes or samosas, or even an octopus salad. The snacks are not free, but are usually a few euros at most. If you want to eat them, eat them. If you don’t – push them to the side and ask they be taken away. Most of these snacks are 50c to €3, but you can check the menu before diving in.

I see tourists complain that service is curt, but that’s part of the charm and tradition. If you speak Portuguese you’ll hear a charming mix of dad jokes, grammar pedantry and friendly (ish) banter with the regulars. These are often family affairs — many times just the husband waiting tables as the wife cooks — so don’t come expecting hospitality-school-trained staff or silver service. Do expect to throw your arm in the air, holding up fingers to indicate how many more imperiais (small beers) you want.

Many tascas are only open for lunch during the week, so check the opening hours before assuming it will be open Friday night. It’s best to carry cash, as many don’t accept credit card (or only accept local Portuguese cards). Tipping is not entrenched in Portuguese culture, but it’s polite to leave a few coin or up to 10% of the bill.

Some of the bom e barato (good and cheap) tascas on my list have likely evolved into what many would call restaurants. So before the Portuguese crowd come after me – this is a list of my favourites, so it includes true tascas along with a few traditional snack bars and restaurants who might charge €14 instead of €8 for a plate. It is 2025 after all, and I think that’s okay.

Finally, I’ve also included a list of some next-generation, modern tascas towards the bottom. These are cool spots run by young chefs who are putting a modern spin on traditional dishes while keeping the prices very attractive. You can eat well without going broke.

Get a local to show you around Lisbon’s tascas on a serious food tour I highly recommend Culinary Backstreets, who run four unique Lisbon food tours that dive deep into the city’s seafood traditions, colonial influences, and lesser-known neighbourhoods. They go deeper and longer than the average food tour, so I always look to see if they operate in cities I’m travelling to and I have a little discount for you.

Get 5% off with the code DANIELA5 when you book!

How to identify a good tasca

Paper tablecloths. These are essential.
Bonus points for a paper tablecloth taped to the outside of the restaurant scrawled with the pratos do dia (plates of the day) – always only in Portuguese, so have Google images handy.
TV in one corner with news or sport. It’s not unusual to see people dining solo.
The couvert: The waiter will drop olives, bread and little packets of butter and sardine paté on the table when you arrive. I repeat, these are not free.
House wine comes from a box, but it’s better than you’d expect.
Specials on certain days of the week. For example, some do Cozido à portuguesa every Wednesday.
Desserts on display. You should be able to wander over and see the house-made desserts on show like jewels. Bonus points for a retro mirrored cabinet.
Interiors that haven’t been updated in at least 40 years. Think steel countertops and retro tiles.
Interiors that reflect the terra (land) or local sports clubs. Think old agricultural equipment or scarves and jerseys from Benfica or Sporting

How to eat and drink in a tasca

The lunch rush happens from about 1pm, so aim to be there by 12.45pm to beat the crowds. Sit down and snack on the couvert, which will likely be some olives, bread, butter and maybe cheese while you read the menu and decide.

At lunch I’ll usually try to order a prato do dia as these specials often offer better value and are more interesting than the standard menu, which might just have grilled meat or fish. During the week you can often access the menu do dia as well, which is a set menu that usually includes the bread, main plate, coffee and a drink, and sometimes also a soup or dessert – it varies from spot to spot and will cost between €10-15. These local canteens or bistros often have a house specialty, plus there will be daily specials that might repeat every week, for example cozido à portuguesa (meat stew) on Wednesdays.

At tascas you can also eat petiscos (starters or Portuguese tapas). These are things like grilled prawns (gamba á guilho) or octopus salad (salada do polvo). But at lunch you can skip straight to the main, maybe enjoying the sopa do dia (soup of the day) to start.

At the end of the meal, you can view the dessert menu, or wander over to the dessert cabinet to eye up your sweets. Pair it with an espresso. Ask for café com cheirinho if you want the espresso with a shot of liqueur, usually a grape-based moonshine known as bagaço. You could also ask for port wine, whisky, moscatel or bagaço on its own.

My favourite tascas in Lisbon (and what to order)

This is a big list, so I’ve tried to group them by area of Lisbon. I’ve also made a Google Map to make it easy to see where they are. It’s also my personal list, and I live over towards the west so it leans heavy in that direction.

I have a long list of Lisbon tascas that I’m yet to try, and I’ll keep adding to this list. If you have a favourite Lisbon tasca from your travels or childhood, leave me a comment.

On that note, downtown Lisbon is changing fast and these places open 30, 40, 50 years are being priced out to make way for hotels and ramen bars. I’ll do my best to keep this up-to-date – and you do your best to support local places that are part of the cultural fabric of the city. Vamos!

Central & East Lisbon tascas: Baixa, Chiado, Mouraria, Cais do Sodré, Alfama

Zé dos Cornos

Ribs, ribs, ribs! They do them savoury style in Portugal, garlicky and salty instead of drowned in barbecue sauce. Share a rack straight off the charcoal grill for around €10 with a tomato salad and bean rice. There’s always a line at Zé dos Cornos but (as with most places) they’ll happily serve you beers while you wait on the street.

Where: Mouraria
Address: Beco Surradores 5, 1100-591 Lisboa
What to order: Piano (ribs)

Das Flores

This inner-city tasca is absolutely fantastic, but don’t go thinking you can just walk in. it’s definitely one of my favourite spots in the city but I’ve always found it’s best to book ahead. It’s only open for lunch, the prices are good, and the dishes are varied.

Where: Chiado
Address: Rua das Flores 76 78, 1200-195 Lisboa
What to order: Bacalhau (salted cod) dishes, polvo á lagareiro (octopus), croquettes

Zé da Mouraria

I’ve had multiple top chefs tell me that Zé da Mouraria is the best tasca in the city, and who am I to argue? At first glance the prices might seem steep, but order a meal and an entire frying pan or tray of food will land on your table – enough to feed three.

Where: Mouraria, but there’s now a few location in the city
Address: R. João do Outeiro 24, 1100-292 Lisboa
What to order: bacalhau com grão (salted cod with chickpeas)

Casa do Alentejo

I’ve always loved visiting the tavern at Casa do Alentejo, a cultural centre set within a 17th-century palace in the heart of Lisbon. It feels like a hidden gem to walk in there and find a small courtyard with a huge olive tree, and it’s open all afternoon making it a good spot for afternoon cravings. This is less of a tasca and more of a snack bar or petisco (tapas) spot. You’ll get to try Alentejo dishes here, like migas, a sort of bread stuffing.

Where: Baixa
Address: R. das Portas de Santo Antão 58, 1150-268 Lisboa
What to order: chouriço (chorizo cooked at the table), migas com porco (bread stuffing with pork)

Read next… Best places to eat octopus in Lisbon

Sardinha

This is an Alfama classic with an elderly husband-and-wife team behind the counters. It’s said to do a great bitoque, but it’s not often you see quail on the menu – especially not somewhere relaxed like this. I received two grilled quails with potato chips and change from €10. The bitoque is also very good though!

Where: Alfama
Address: R. Jardim do Tabaco 18 20, 1100-081 Lisboa
What to order: bitoque (thin steak with egg)

Maça Verde

If you’re catching an afternoon train to Porto, make Maça Verde your lunch stop. This snack bar apparently evolved into a proper restaurant in the late 90s and now it’s a favourite address for traditional Portuguese food.

Where: Santa Apolonia
Address: R. Caminhos de Ferro 1100, 1100-486 Lisboa
What to order: daily specials

Cantina das Freiras

Feel like a smug local when you climb the stairs of an unsuspecting inner-city building to find this lunchtime canteen. This isn’t quite a tasca, but it’s cheap and too good to skip. Grab a tray and slide along to choose from the traditional Portuguese fish, meat or vegetarian dish of the day and take your meal to the rooftop terrace to dine with views over the river.

Where: Chiado
Address: Tv. Ferragial 1, 1200-184
What to order: Each day the daily meals change, expect to pay around €6. Amazingly they update the daily menu on their website each week.

Tendinha Do Rossio

Open since 1840, Tendinha is a slice of history on the doorstep of Lisbon’s Rossio Square. But from the outside it’s not so obvious – the large terrace tables are covered in marketing with pictures of the snacks and prices of everything you might like to eat. I say close your eyes on the way in and soak up the vintage interiors of the small space. Here you’ll eat the best pastel de bacalhau, a codfish potato croquette, in the city.

Where: Baixa
Address: Praça Dom Pedro IV 6, 1100-200 Lisboa
What to order: pastel de bacalhau

Read next… Where to eat in Baixa, Lisbon

Esquina da Fé

One of my favourite things about my next three suggestions is the location. Just a block back from Lisbon’s fanciest streets, where you’ll find boutiques for Prada, Gucci, and other luxury goods, you’ll find a normal Lisbon neighbourhood with fantastic tascas and cheap-and-cheerful dining options. I’m seeing it change rapidly, with construction and hotels going up, but if you can pop by “Faith Corner” then I highly suggest you do. Inside it’s very old school, with a changing traditional menu based mostly on northern cuisine from the Minho and Trás-os-Montes regions. Everything is made in house, including the desserts, and the prices are still favourable.

Where: Avenida da Liberdade
Adress: Rua da Fé 60, 1150-151 Lisboa
What to order: the dish of the day

Read next… 6 best food markets in Portugal

O Cartaxinho

No one could argue that this is not a true tasca – a place run by a husband-and-wife team who serve regional Minho dishes, only making some specials on certain days of the week. For the past 30 or so years Maria Júlia Cabral and her husband have been serving locals cozido (Portuguese boiled stew), cabidela (chicken blood rice), and more.

Where: Avenida da Liberdade
Address: R. de Santa Marta 20B, 1150-295 Lisboa
What to order: the daily special or bacalhau á bras

Forninho Saloio

I recall reading a newspaper that said a tasca only open 40s years a young spot, and so Forninho Saloio is a spring chicken open only since 1995. While the prices are a little higher that what most locals would call a tasca, this is very much a traditional dining room serving top traditional Portuguese cuisine. The grill is fantastic, the daily specials are great, and the desserts are homemade. I loved the pernil do porco (pork knuckle) I had last time with very slow roasted potatoes.

Where: Avenida da Liberdade
Address: Travessa Parreiras 39, 1150-250 Lisboa
What to order: pratos do dia offer slightly better value than the menu.

Príncipe do Calhariz

Not many taverns are open on Sundays, let alone Sunday nights, which is why Príncipe do Calhariz is a bit special. The other reason it makes this list is the size. While it’s a popular spot, this big tunnel space has stacks of tables, making it easy enough to squeeze in or wait for a table. The food is usually good, the staff are super lovely, and the vibes and location are great.

Where: Chiado
Address: Calçada do Combro 28, 1200-012 Lisboa
What to order: steak or anything off the grill

West Lisbon tascas: Santos, Alcântara, Campo de Ourique, Ajuda, Belém

O Tachadas

At the front of this tiny tasca, the grill chef’s eyes barely stray from whatever telenovela or old movie is on the TV as he flips steaks, squid and pork chops over the coals. Besides a curt greeting, the most you’ll hear from him is the loud thump as he cleaves huge chunks of steak on demand. This small old-school tasca is the spot I return to again and again and again for the giant T-bone steak that comes the size of your (rather large) plate.

Where: Santos
Address: Rua da Esperança 178, 1200-808 Lisboa
What to order: Costeleta de novilho (steak), bacalhau à brás (salted cod)

Imperial de Campo de Ourique

Senhor João is one of Lisbon’s greatest characters. He has such an enthusiasm for the restaurant and the food from the Minho region that his wife, dona Adelaide, cooks up. You can’t help but be swept up in his genuine joy. As for the food, you’ll probably smell it wafting out the door before you even see the place, and the flavours live up to the hype generated by your nose.

Where: Campo de Ourique
Address: R. Correia Teles 67, 1350-095 Lisboa
What to order: chanfana (goat stew), bacalhau à minhota

Jorge d’Amália

If you’ve had enough of tascas filled with red Benfica and green Sporting memorabilia, Jorge d’Amália will be a refreshing change. Here you’ll find a quite simply overwhelming number of jerseys, scarves, flags and other paraphernalia associated with the local side, Os Belenenses. More importantly, you’ll find a pica pau full of juicy tender steak and a generous dose of vinagery pickled veg, and one of the city’s best bitoques (steak with egg and gravy).

Where: Ajuda
Address: Calçada da Memória 20, 1300-396 Lisboa
What to order: bitoque (steak with egg), pica pau (chopped steak with pickles)

O Lutador

I come to O Lutador loads because it’s my local, but I’d suggest anyone looking for great petiscos (tapas) to drop by. There’s a massive terrace to enjoy a bifana and imperial (that’s a pork sandwich and baby beer) in the fading sun, or plates of tiny snails, pica-pau and beer in summer.

Where: Alcântara
Address: R. da Junqueira 1C, 1300-383 Lisboa
What to order: Pica pau (chopped steak with pickles) with hot chips, octopus salad, bifana (pork steak sandwich)

Linha 27

The best tascas are like stepping into a timewarp – and are often only open for lunch. This local hidey hole in Alcântara is my time machine, packed with local workers every weekday. You can’t go wrong with a bitoque at almost any tasca, but this one is particularly good. Or why not opt for the “usual” order of the regular sat next to us – she asked for horse mackerel with Spanish sauce and a half-litre of house white wine. Linha 27 has been open since 1981 and updates the menu on its Facebook page.

Where: Alcântara
Address: Tv. do Conde da Ponte 3, 1300-141 Lisboa
What to order: pork cheeks with slow-roasted potatoes

Read next… How to spend 48 hours in Lisbon

50 Maravilhas

A homely spot that verges into restaurant territory, o Maravilhas – or 50 Maravilhas – is a local favourite where you can enjoy high-quality meals or share a “dose” for two for around €15.

Where: Alcântara
Address: R. Gilberto Rola 20, 1350-155 Lisboa
What to order: arroz do polvo (octopus rice), carne de porco á Alentejana (pork with clams)

O Cantinho do Alfredo

The chalkboard out front scrawled with the day’s specials is almost illegible, a great sign. This tiny vintage dining room – with worn concrete tile floors and wooden tables – is a timewarp. Every lunch it is packed with workers enjoying meals for €5-6 and lunch with drinks and dessert giving change for €10. Anelderly man named Albino (not Alfredo) is in charge, and while the food is mostly simple – everything is still made in house, including the desserts.

Where: Campolide
Address: Rua General Taborda 44, Campolide, Lisboa, Portugal 1070-140
What to order: anything from the blackboard of specials, with prices around €6 for mains. Go on Thursdays for cozido (boiled meat stew)

Tasca do Gordo

Think backyard barbecue but someone else is doing all the work. All you have to do is choose which animal to eat and whether you’ll be soothing your watering mouth with a grain- or grape-based beverage while nose fills with the smell of the churrasco. Tasca do Gordo is a gem in Belem with a massive backyard where the kids can run wild while you tuck into espetadas and plates of beans. It’s that simple.

Where: Belém
Address: R. dos Cordoeiros a Pedrouços 33, 1400-071 Lisboa
What to order: espetadas (meat skewers)

Read next… Where to eat in Belém

North Lisbon tascas: Alvalade, Lumiar, Benfica, Campolide

Tasquinha do Lagarto

Open since 1973, this tasca started as a café and snack bar with games tables and has since become one of Lisbon’s best addresses. The first thing you’ll notice in Tasquinha do Largato is the sports paraphernalia lining every wall, particularly that of Lisbon’s football team Sporting. Inside the menu is short but well priced. I’ve tried almost all of it and every visit the food has been fantastic.

Where: Campolide
Address: R. de Campolide 258, Lisboa
What to order: atum cebolada (tuna and onions), polvo á lagaeiro (baked octopus with potatoes)

Adega Solar Minhoto

Bitoque. It’s a Lisbon dish – basically a thin steak topped with a fried egg and served with chips. I’ve seen plenty of Lisboetas and Portuguese chefs name this Alvalade tasca as the top spot for a bitoque, so of course we tried it (and it’s great). This is one of the best tascas in Lisbon. It squeezes 45 people in and has almost as many dishes to choose from, so you don’t have to order a steak — but you should. Go early, no reservations.

Where: Alvalade
Address: Av. Rio de Janeiro 29F, 1700-111 Lisboa
What to order: bitoque

Pirilampo

Whether it’s true or not, I personally consider Alvalade to be the most Portuguese city suburb of Lisbon. It’s a little bit out of the centre, but it has a supremely cosmopolitan feeling with a busy main street. I think its location means the expat crowd and tourists haven’t infiltrated the neighbourhood (yet). Everything in this area is for the locals, and this tasca – Pirilampo – is just off the main street is a classic that’s hit the mark on both visits.

Where: Alvalade
Address: R. Acácio de Paiva 4, 1700-005 Lisboa
What to order: anything, but I recall feeling particularly fond of the choco frito (fried cuttlefish)

Cantina do Mercado

Attached to Lisbon’s best fresh produce markethall – Mercado 31 de Janeiro – is Cantina, a relaxed lunchtime fish grill. Here you’ll choose from grilled market fish or meat, served simply. Go early as it gets busy with office workers from nearby buildings.

Where: Saldanha, Mercado 31 de Janeiro
What to order: fish

Jaguar

When I eat out I’m often looking to try something new or different, and at Jaguar I finally got to try maranhos, which is a type of sausage from central Portugal made with rice, meat and mint inside. Strange? Yes, but I loved it. You’ll find this classic tasca close to the beautiful Jardim Gulbenkian. Inside the dining room is a timewarp to the 70s, outside is a large terrace in the shade.

Where: São Sebastião
Address: Av. Conde Valbom 87, 1050-067 Lisboa
What to order: maranhos if they have it

Adega das Gravatas

Many would argue Adega das Gravatas is a traditional Portugues restaurante not a tasca. But I’m not here to fight, just to tell you about good place to eat good food – and this is one of them. Here you’ll want to order the polvo á lagareiro as the portion is generous. Meat lovers will enjoy the naco na pedra (steak cooked on a hot stone at your table).

Where: Carnide
Address: Tv. Pregoeiro 15, 1600-588 Lisboa
What to order: polvo á lagareiro (octopus and potatoes), naco na pedra (steak)

Lisbon’s next-generation wave of modern tascas

O Velho Eurico

The first time I visited O Velho Eurico it was a killer, old-school tasca with some of the best polvo á lagareiro (olive oil octopus) and bacalhau no forno (baked salted cod) in the city, and one of those plate-dwarfing steaks that are becoming increasingly rare. When the owner retired, a young chef called Zé Paulo Rocha took over and flipped it into a menu of traditional petiscos (small plates like tapas), elevated just the tiniest bit while keeping the old soul of the place. A hand-written chalkboard details what’s on offer each day.

Where: Castelo
Address: Largo São Cristóvão nº3, 1100-179 Lisboa
What to order: Lamb croquettes, arroz de pato, chambao,

Taberna Sal Grosso

Tuna pica pau at Sal Grosso

Bring a group and order one of everything on the menu. A big black chalkboard dictates the dishes of the moment – usually small and medium-sized plates with everything from tuna pica pau to fried quail and sweet ribs. The food has a distinctively Portuguese root, but it’s more influenced by the world than other modern taverns in Lisbon.

Where: Alfama
Address: Calçada do Forte 22, 1100-256 Lisboa
What to order: chicken with leitão (peppery gravy) sauce, tuna pica-pau (seared tuna with pickles)

Cacué

I wasn’t sure where to place this gem, which stays true to traditional Portuguese cooking but in a beautiful space with great care. The prices are higher at Cacué than your lunchtime canteen tasca, but it’s a top spot to try the best version of traditional dishes, with no twists or turns. See also Suzana, another dining gem cut from the same cloth.

Where: Saldanha
Address: R. Tomás Ribeiro 93 C, 1050-227 Lisboa
What to order: cabidela, bacalhau á Brás

Tasca Baldracca

Tasca Baldracca is perhaps the most daring of the new wave spots on this list, mixing Portuguese flavours with more international influences. For example, the scotch egg with mortadela (Portuguese blood sausage) is fantastic, and I adore the steak tartare.

Where: Castelo
Address: R. das Farinhas 1, 1100-177 Lisboa
What to order: you can’t really go wrong here

Petisco Saloio

While some spots blow up in international media (here’s looking at you, Velho Eurico), others continue to fly under the radar. Petisco is Portugal’s equivalent of tapas, and I’m a huge fan of this spot, which serves up slightly refined traditional small plates. Call ahead to book a table on the terrace – Petisco Saloio is a tiny space and popular with locals.

Where: Campo Pequeno
Adress: Av. Barbosa du Bocage 38, 1000-072 Lisboa
What to order: you can’t really go wrong here

A Obra

This little restaurant on Lisbon’s “Green Street” was a recently surprise. From the small kitchen A Obra serves a modern Portuguese menu to tables on the leafy street. Very charming, very delicious. It seems like the menu changes a lot but I loved the octopus rice, the asparagus and the prawn sandwich.

Where: São Bento/Santos
Address: R. da Silva 21, 1200-446 Lisboa
What to order: seafood

Maps of my favourite tascas in Lisbon

That’s my list of what I think are the best tascas in Lisbon. I’m always visiting new spots and adding to my list – add your suggestions in the comments!

Keep reading….

Pin it!

The post My favourite tascas in Lisbon: Where to eat traditional Portuguese food appeared first on Olá Daniela.

Lisbon blogs - Olá Daniela

Lisbon’s best beach day trips

Best Lisbon beach day trip for…

Which of these Lisbon beach day trips can you do without a car?

Best beaches close to Lisbon downtown

Cascais train line

South of the Tagus River – (I talk about the Caparica area below)

Cascais: Chic marina, beaches and galleries

Things to do in Cascais

Ericeira: chilled out surf town

Things to do in Ericeira

Costa da Caparica: Lisbon’s best beaches

Things to do in Costa da Caparica

Arrábida Natural Park: turquoise bays & limestone cliffs

Things to do in Arrábida Natural Park

Sesimbra: pretty fishing town with stunning beaches

Things to do in Sesimbra

Sintra: secret coast of wild beaches & mist

Things to do on Sintra’s Coast

Berlengas Islands & Peniche: Raw, rocky islands and a surf town

Things to do in Peniche and the Berlengas Islands

Comporta: boujee beach escape

Things to do in Comporta

Nazaré: big waves, 7 skirts & sun-dried seafood

Things to do in Nazaré

More Lisbon day trip ideas

Best day trips from Lisbon for history lovers

Which of these Lisbon day trips can you do without a car?

Map of Lisbon’s best day trip destinations

Sintra: Palaces, a Moorish castle & mountain magic

Best things to do in Sintra

Read next… 31 things to do in Sintra and Sintra 1 or 2-Day Itinerary

Óbidos: medieval walled village from a picturebook

Things to do in Óbidos

Évora: Roman temple, wine & a bone chapel

Things to do in Évora

Tomar: Follow the trail of the Knights Templar

Things to do in Tomar

Mafra: mega palace, wolves & wild boars

Things to do in Mafra

Fátima: a sanctuary of faith

Things to do in Fátima

Caldas da Rainha: creative city of ceramics

Things to do in Caldas da Rainha

Vila Franca de Xira: birdwatching and bullfighting traditions

Things to do in Vila Franca de Xira

Where to stay in Lisbon: Best neighbourhoods & hotels

Quick guide to Lisbon’s neighbourhoods

Map of where to stay in Lisbon

My 5-star hotel picks in Lisbon

My 4-star hotel picks in Lisbon

Where to stay: best neighbourhoods in Lisbon

Baixa & Chiado – Great for first-timers

Where to stay in Baixa

Where to stay in Chiado

Príncipe Real – for the leafy neighbourhood vibe

Where to stay in Príncipe Real

Alfama – for charming cobblestone lanes

Where to stay in Alfama

Bairro Alto – gritty, fun and a little wild

Where to stay in Bairro Alto

Avenida da Liberdade – leafy, luxury avenue

Where to stay in Avenida Liberdade

Santos & São Bento – polished, cool area of Lisbon

Where to stay in Santos & São Bento

Anjos & Intendente – the gritty, cool area of Lisbon

Where to stay in Anjos & Intendente

Belém – quiet, historic neighbourhood

Where to stay in Belém

Avenidas Novas (Marquês de Pombal & Saldanha) – Lisbon’s business heart

Where to stay in Avenida Novas

Other neighbourhoods to consider in Lisbon

Graça – cool king of the hill

Estrela – quiet yet central

Campo de Ourique – a miniature city within the city

Marvila – gritty and raw

Cacilhas – a short ferry away

Where to avoid staying in Lisbon

General tips for visiting Lisbon

Getting around Lisbon