- 1 September 2020
THIS GUIDE BRINGS TAKES YOU THROUGH the best LISBON NEIGHBOURHOODS
Lisbon doesn’t need any tourist attractions, museums or anything. Just discovering the city and strolling through the best Lisbon neighbourhoods already show the beauty of the city.
After living there for 3 months and trying to discover as much as possible, I will share the best Lisbon neighbourhoods including some highlights! I have to admit, they cover a whole bit of Lisbon, but it gives a great overview and might help to cut your city trip into smaller chunks.
1. BICA
Bica was the neighbourhood I lived and is a neighbourhood where many locals still live. It is right in the city centre in between Barrio Alto and Cais de Sodre. The neighbourhood is mainly famous for the most photographed street of Lisbon: Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo. A picture of the famous Elevador de Bica can’t miss during a Lisbon visit. Stroll along the tiny streets and don’t miss out on Mirador de Santa Catarina, especially during sunset when everyone is hanging out at this lively spot with often some live music. A very nice restaurant here is Phármacia and you can stick around after dinner to have a cheap beer on the stairs down Rua de Bica de Duarte Belo.
2. MOURARIA
Mouraria is rawer than other neighborhoods and has lots to offer. I did a free walking tour through Mouraria and Alfama and would definitely recommend doing that, as it learns you more about its history and takes you through many small alleys. One thing is sure, they both deserve a place in the list of best Lisbon neighbourhoods. Also, don’t forget to check out the nearby neighbourhood Intendente with a square with some nice restaurants and bars and the rooftop bar Topo located at the square Martim Moniz.
3. PRINCIPE REAL
Príncipe Real has all you need in Lisbon. A nice park to hang out, view points, amazing restaurants and all different kinds of bars. Every corner can give you a complete different vibe and all of them are pretty. Príncipe real is the home of my favourite craft beer bar in Lisbon: Cerveteca Lisboa, with daily changing taps. Furthermore, it is home to my favourite restaurant: A Cevicheria. Well worth a visit!
4. ALFAMA
Alfama is known for all the little alleys and small streets. You will see laundry hanging everywhere and Lisbon’s history shows when walking around. It is home to a cathedral, the famous castle and Fado. When you like photography, eat your heart out, as Alfama can give you some unique shots. It is also home to a flee market on Tuesday and Saturday and different viewpoints, such as Mirador Portas do Sol, give show you the great scenery of Alfama and Lisbon. A nice place for brunch or a coffee is Pois, Cafe.
5. LX FACTORY
It is not a real neighbourhood, but as it gives you shops, culture, food and drinks, it could be one and therefore deserves a place amoung the best Lisbon neighbourhoods. When you like trendy and raw places, it should definitely be on your list to visit. Don’t expect a hidden gem though, as it became a famous tourist attraction. It is home to the best chocolate cake in the world (Landeau) and a library where you definitely want to shoot a picture (Ler Devagar). Visit the rooftop bar Rio Marhavilha for a view over the bridge including a colorful statue and visit A MESA for a great pizza.
