20 amazing things to do in Lisbon

What is it? Looking not unlike a giant ray that deflected off the river, the ultra-modern Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology has been all over Lisboetas’ Instagrams since it opened in 2016.

Why go? It opened, then it closed, and then it opened again, but what’s certain is that this project by the EDP Foundation is much more than its acronym. MAAT’s architectural lines struck the city at its 2016 launch and now justify regular pilgrimages to the area of Belém. If nothing else, the structure designed by British architect Amanda Levete, combined with a sunset backdrop, makes a killer pic to share on social media. But of course, you shouldn’t stop there: we recommend consulting the agenda for information on permanent and temporary exhibitions.

Don’t miss: Be sure to take a tour of the Tejo Power Station, one of the permanent exhibitions of this tremendous museum.

What is it? Markets, exhibitions, shops, cafes, concerts, and parties. There is a whole world to discover in this cosmopolitan ‘factory’ that has completely altered the landscape of Alcântara since its opening.

Why go? This uber-trendy venue hosts an eclectic selection of places to eat, drink, dance and spend some serious euros: as well as shopping, you can switch up your look with a haircut, get a tattoo, browse for art, or sip a rooftop caipirinha.

Don’t miss: The weekly market on Sundays.

What is it? In recent years, Lisbon has become one of the global capitals of urban art.

Why go? Vhils, Shepard Fairey, Bordalo II, Aka Corleone, ±MaisMenos±, Tamara Alves, and Mário Belém are some of the most prominent names whose work you’ll encounter on this urban art tour in Lisbon. While Lisbon is battling with untalented taggers who insist on spreading their signatures everywhere, the city is increasingly becoming an open-air museum of stunning urban art.

Don’t miss: Famous for the posters he designed for Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, Shepard Fairey teamed up with Vhils to create a large-scale mural of a woman’s face in Graça. Combining both their styles, it is located on Rua da Senhora da Glória.

What is it? A giant aquarium with millions of litres of salt water and a host of fascinating inhabitants.

Why go? In a country with such an extensive coastline and a maritime tradition that goes back centuries, it would be almost a crime to think fish only belong on a plate. The oceanarium opened in 1998, when Lisbon played host to the world expo, and became one of the highlights of the event.

Don’t miss: Aside from the must-see permanent exhibition, you can expect temporary displays, a variety of activities (how about sleeping with the sharks?), and an outreach programme that hosts events outside of the city. 

What is it? Established more than 80 years ago by a German/Galician duo, Gambrinus was initially a brewery serving German fare. Thirty years later, new management remodelled the venue into the look it still has today.

Why go? Unwritten rules for eating at Gambrinus bar: 1) always get a croquette with the house mustard; 2) ask for the Gambrinus tulipa, a mix of the light and dark beers; 3) do not skip the toasted almonds; 4) wait patiently for the rye bread toast; 5) try a prego (beef sandwich), or a roast beef sandwich with tartar sauce; 6) order the café de balão and marvel as coffee is prepared tableside in an extraordinary piece of kit. This is the perfect place for having lunch alone, although with so many employees, you're never really alone.

Don’t miss: The croquettes, the prego, and the crêpes suzette are all unmissable.

What is it? The Lisbon equivalent of London's Portobello Market or Madrid's El Rastro.

Why go? Feira da Ladra began in the 13th century (yes, really) and moved around the city until settling in Campo de Santa Clara in 1882. Here, you can find everything from antiques and second-hand items to vintage clothing and crafts. But Feira da Ladra isn’t just about shopping: you can also take in murals by prominent artists and the stunning views of the Tagus and the National Pantheon.

Don’t miss: To snag the best treasures – and to help you beat the heat in the summer months – set your alarm early on Tuesdays or Saturdays and head to Campo de Santa Clara prepared to haggle. 

What is it? A Portuguese beauty brand known for its famous face cream, the formula for which has remained unchanged since 1925 (now without parabens).

Why go? The three stores in Lisbon, on Rua dos Bacalhoeiros, Príncipe Real and LX Factory, still follow the nearly century-old tradition of what they like to call ‘beauty kitchen’. In 2016, the stores were revamped and are now among the most Instagrammable spots in the city, thanks to their impeccable layout, colours, and the products’ exquisite packaging.

Don’t miss: The Benamôr family has grown over the years. One of the most popular is the Nata range, inspired by Portuguese pastries and traditional sweets, with egg and cinnamon extract. The line consists of hand cream, body cream, and lip balm.

What is it? Founded in 1732 (it moved to its current location some 50 years later), Bertrand is Portugal's oldest bookshop.

Why go? While you can find a branch of the bookstore chain in various shopping centers, nothing compares to entering the one in Chiado, considered the oldest bookstore in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records and founded in 1732 (that alone is reason enough to visit). In addition to local literature, it offers a great selection of English novels as well as guides and foreign magazines, those hard to find elsewhere.

Don’t miss: A few years ago, the bookstore added a café room with snacks inspired by the authors featured on the shelves and national wines.

What is it? A punk approach to traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Why go? At O Velho Eurico, regional recipes are followed faithfully and the menu is consistent, changing occasionally depending on the seasons and available ingredients. It has everything you’d expect from a tavern: a good atmosphere, prompt and knowledgeable service, poor ventilation, and a short, no-frills wine list.

What is it? A brewery and bar where craft beer, live music, and great snacks come together.

Why go? Musa, a craft brewery, opened its first public venue in Marvila in 2017. The terrace remains a fantastic spot, perfect for an evening with friends or the start of a night filled with drinks and music.

Don’t miss: The magical karaoke nights, aka karaoke with auto-tune (because no one wants to spend the night listening to off-key performances). To find out when the next one is, just keep an eye on Musa de Marvila’s Instagram page.

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