As we welcome in the New Year, it’s never too early to start planning your next big city break, or quick getaway to ring in 2018 with style.
From partying with the locals in Cais do Sodre to discovering the latest music fusions in Intendente, Lisbon is fast becoming one of Europe’s coolest capitals. Here we give you a rundown of all the places night owls will want to check out, while visiting Portugal’s stunning coastal city that never sleeps.
Marvila
To the east of the city, bordering the River Tagus, Marvila is becoming one of Lisbon’s most happening districts.
Once home to factory workers, a process of gentrification is under way, with abandoned industrial buildings giving way to creative spaces and trendy cafes and bars. Visitors to the area can also look forward to gallery openings and cultural events, as well as artisanal craft beers on tap.
Bica
Tiny but incredibly picturesque, the neighbourhood of Bica is hidden in plain sight. With its cobblestoned lanes and stairways – and with Lisbon’s postcard-perfect trams passing right through it – this spot is popular with locals who are drawn in by its unassuming wine bars (one famously serving only port), art-spaces/bars and budget-friendly ‘happy hours’.
Santo Amaro Docks
Popular for a morning coffee, a lazy lunch or a mid-afternoon ice-cream, the Docks are relatively tame during the day but come alive at night.
In an ingenious conversion of the facilities previously occupied by the Port of Lisbon, the old warehouses have shaken off their industrial pasts to house a number of fashionable restaurants, bars and night clubs.
With space at a premium, you will often see people standing on the pavement, balancing against the streets’ steep inclines while holding a drink.
Cais do Sodre
As one of Lisbon’s trendiest places, it was completely rejuvenated a few years ago and boasts a relaxed vibe that appeals to tourists. Cais do Sodre is known for the Ribeira das Naus waterfront promenade and Pink Street, which forms the epicentre of the area’s nightlife and receives an eclectic mix of visitors from sunset to sunrise.
From students to young professionals, visitors can expect parties all night long in an effortlessly cool and unpretentious atmosphere.
Principe Real
The much-loved upscale area is known for its great food and shopping scene, beautiful 19th century mansions, art galleries and bars.
Principe Real has it all, including a giant Cedar tree whose large canopy is famously shaped like an umbrella. The area is an extension of Bairro Alto which which lies north of Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcantara and has a pretty and pleasant square, surrounded by cafes.
The district also makes a good day trip and is also very popular among the LGBT community – with several gay bars and clubs.
For more information, ideas and inspiration on a visit to Lisbon please go to www.visitlisboa.com.
