Lisbon, with its laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere, has so much more to offer than meets the eye. Beyond the tourist hotspots, exploring its hidden gems allows you to experience the city like a true local. Here are five suggestions to discover the Portuguese capital in an authentic and surprising way.
Markets: Hunting for Unique Finds and Bargains
For those who love getting lost among the stalls of flea markets, ‘Feira da Ladra’, also known as the “thieves’ market”, is an absolute must-visit. In this historic market, every Tuesday and Saturday you can find a treasure trove of all sorts of objects: from handmade creations like blankets, paintings, and carpets to electronics, books, and much more. Once a place to sell stolen goods, hence the nickname, today it’s the perfect place to find quirky and unique items, nestled between the neighborhoods of Graça and Alfama. The best time to visit is early in the morning, then perhaps stop by the Miradouro da Graça café for a stunning view and a good coffee.
For lunch, the Campo de Ourique Market is a must-see. This historic covered market, active since the 1930s, offers fresh fruits and vegetables, along with trendy restaurants and bars. It’s the ideal place to immerse yourself in local life, far from the tourist crowds. Plus, the famous tram 28 leaves from this neighborhood, making it easy to combine a visit to the market with a ride on one of Lisbon’s most iconic means of transport.
Hidden Miradouri: Breathtaking Panoramas
To experience the city from a different perspective, Lisbon offers some lesser-known but equally spectacular viewpoints where you can admire breathtaking views. The Miradouro Nossa Senhora do Monte, the Miradouro do Torel, and the Miradouro do Monte Agudo, for example, are perfect places to overlook the city from above.
The Grand Reopening of MUDE – Museu Design Lisboa
For creative souls and those seeking something new, don’t miss the recent reopening of a gem for fashion and design enthusiasts: MUDE, a museum located in the heart of the historic center, just a stone’s throw from the Arco de Rua Augusta and the Terreiro do Paço.
A Peaceful Retreat: Estufa Fria
Estufa Fria, a true gem among Lisbon’s botanical gardens, is located in Parque Eduardo VII, at the end of the majestic Avenida da Liberdade. This splendid botanical garden stands out for its name, which means “cold greenhouse”, derived from the absence of heating. The complex includes several greenhouses: a cold one, a hot one, and a ‘sweet’ one, the latter dedicated to cacti and succulents. Estufa Fria is an oasis of peace and tranquility, ideal for those seeking a place to recharge, connect with nature, and find relief from the heat.
Tascas for Every Taste
After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than ending with a traditional dinner. Tascas, small traditional restaurants, often family-run, are the beating heart of the capital’s gastronomic and cultural life and offer a warm welcome and authentic dishes. If you want to immerse yourself in the true spirit of Lisbon, the neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto are ideal: here, tascas flourish on every corner. You can savor typical specialties like grilled cod and cozido à portuguesa, accompanied by a glass of vinho verde. But the magic of tascas is not limited to food: they are often lively, authentic meeting places where fado music resonates and conversations flow freely among Lisbon locals.
Lisbon is a city that knows how to surprise, you just have to know where to look. Let your curiosity guide you and discover its hidden corners for an unforgettable experience.