There are plenty of guides, including some on this website, telling what you should do in Lisbon. I wanted to take you on a different journey this time: a highly visual guide, which I hope inspires you to get lost in the backstreets of the city’s most emblematic neighbourhoods like Chiado and Principe Real, I’d also like to introduce you to some lesser-known gems like Intendente and the trendy LX Factory space in Alcantara.
INDEPENDENT SHOPPING IN LISBON
Go to Principe Real for a great choice of indy stores and concept stores featuring Portugal’s independent designers. For souvenirs stay away from tourist traps in Alfama and head to A Vida Portuguesa instead, a nostalgic trip to a Portugal of old, celebrating authentic Portuguese soaps, ceramics, toys and other quirky items.
A Vida Portuguesa
Chiado: R. Anchieta 11, 1200-023 Tel: +351 213 465 073
Chiado 2: Rua Ivens 2 1200-227 Chiado Tel: +351 210 079 536
Intendente: Largo do Intendente Pina Manique 23 1100-285 Tel: +351 211 974 512
Website
Embaixada
Principe Real: Praça do Príncipe Real, 26 1250 Lisboa
Website
Loja Dada (by appointment)
Principe Real: Rua Nova de São Mamede,58A 1250-173 Tel: +351 – 21 139 7504
Website
Feira da Ladra (Vintage Flea Market)
WHERE TO STAY IN LISBON
For unique design decadence why not stay at the Valverde Hotel, in Avenida da Liberdade. If you’re looking for hotel inspiration then also have a look at our Lisbon hotel guide.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN LISBON
For Michelin-starred food: Belcanto is celebrity chef’s José Avillez crown jewel. Boasting two Michelin stars, Chef Avillez will make you challenge your perception of rustic Portuguese food by elevating it to a whole new level.
Where: Largo de São Carlos, 10 1200-410 Lisboa
Tel: +351 213 420 607
Best Seafood: If seafood is your thing, then Ramiro is a dream come true. A Lisbon institution, it has recently been made famous by Anthony Bourdain. In my opinion it richly deserves the crown for the best seafood in Lisbon.
Where: Av. Almirante Reis nº1 – H, 1150-007
Tel: +351 21 885 1024
Best Frango Assado: Get a finger-licking tasting of Lisbon’s iconic frango assado (roast chicken) in A Valenciana – the atmosphere is raw here, don’t come for intimate and romantic, instead you’ll be overwhelmed by the delicious charcoal aromas.
Where: Rua Marquês da Fronteira, 157-163 A (Campolide)
Tel +351 21 388 4926
Want to find out what are Lisbon’s must-dos? Have a look at my Lisbon weekend guide, and many other posts to plan your holiday to Lisbon.
