In recent years, Lisbon has increased in popularity. Lisbon is busy year round, but Lisbon in summer is especially busy. Because of this there are always new restaurants, bars, and hot spots to discover; however, there are a few staples that we like to enjoy, no matter how many times we go.

Below are the 7 best things we love to do in Lisbon in summer and hope you enjoy!

#1: Listen to the Fado

Without a doubt, enjoying an evening listening to fado is our favourite thing to do in Lisbon. Fado is Portugal’s traditional folklore music that is sung by a Fadista and their guitar players. The music is traditionally melancholic and the lyrics speak of nostalgia, suffering, and longing. It’s theatrical and beautiful!

There are many places that serve dinner during performances, but you can also drop into small tavern-style places in the Alfama neighbourhood and enjoy a late night Ginja or Porto while enjoying an evening of this exquisite music.

TIP: Do not talk or use your phone during the shows.

Fado is similar to theatre and when the Fadistas sing and the musicians play, they require absolute silence. Many will not begin until it is completely quiet and people will shush you if you interrupt.

#2: Explore Alfama

Alfama is Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhood and well worth wandering on foot, if possible. Filled with cobblestone, winding roads, Alfama is filled with nooks and crannies that always delight.

TIP: If visiting Alfama during the day, make sure it’s early in the morning or in the early evening.

This is to avoid the midday heat since Lisbon in summer is extremely hot and mixed in with Alfama’s hills, it’ll be uncomfortable.

#3: Discover Chiado

In the heart of Lisbon’s downtown, you can find Chiado. Filled with restaurants, cafes, and shopping, Chiado is trendy and busy, and hard to miss when you’re in Lisbon in summer since it’s central to everything.

TIP: If you want to see magnificent views of Lisbon’s skyline, you can go to several spots within Chiado.

Try these spots for great views of Lisbon in summer: The Rooftop Bar of the Chiado Hotel, Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, which offers a spectacular view, and the Santa Justa Elevator, which takes you to essentially the same spot as behind the Convento do Carmo (see below), so you may want to skip the elevator and its long lines, and walk to the Convento, grab a drink and enjoy the gorgeous skyline.

#4: Drop into Pink Street

If you’re looking for some nightlife in Lisbon in summer, then Pink Street is the place you’ll want to visit. There are tons of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs; however, most people spill out onto the street late at night. It’s also where this picture of Marilyn was taken.

TIP: Be extra careful in these crowds late at night and try to avoid the area south of here, Cais do Sodré, late at night as it has been known to be a little sketchy.

#5: Visit Bairro Alto

Bairro Alto used to be THE place for nightlife. Although Pink Street has taken over this title, there is still plenty to do and see in this neighbourhood.

TIP: Walk through the Bairro Alto during the afternoon for a calmer experience than during the evening.

Note that many places will be closed as they get ready for the evening. Also, we recommend not staying in or near this neighbourhood as it gets very loud. Residents have been known to complain.

#6: Indulge in a Pastel de Nata

Much has been written about pastéis de nata. If you visit Lisbon, you must try this custard pastry. Pretty much every bakery (and sometimes restaurant or kiosk) serves these yummy treats, but some are better than others.

TIP: Manteigaria in Lisbon and Pastéis de Belém, a twenty minute tram ride out of Lisbon, are the best places for these desserts.

#7: Visit o Convento do Carmo (Convent Carmo)

An understated place in Lisbon is the Convento do Carmo. Located in Chiado, this former Catholic convent is open to the public. The 1755 earthquake caused a lot of damage but it has survived. It is simple, but breathtaking.

TIP: If visiting Lisbon in summer, check out Lisbon Under the Stars.

This is an immersive experience which explains Portugal’s history, and takes place every year. It is a 45 minute show, and costs 15 Euros for adults, 12 Euros for Children, Students, Seniors, Lisbon Residents, and People with Reduced Mobility, and 10 Euros for a Family Ticket. Children up to 3 years old can enter for free. Get there early as there is a limited number of tickets sold! Also, bring a blanket or a fold up chair since there isn’t any seating provided.

Are you planning on visiting Lisbon this summer? Let us know what you’re most looking forward to on your trip!

-Isabel & Marilyn

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