Lisbon may be one of Europe’s sunniest capitals, but for many visitors it really comes to life when the sun goes down. From lively bars to cool clubs and party boats, Lisbon nightlife starts late and finishes early in the morning. Here are some of the options for night owls looking to make the most of the warm summer nights.
Start the night in Bairro Alto
The bohemian district of Bairro Alto is the place to meet for a drink at the start of the night. With its narrow cobbled streets, it’s one of Lisbon’s oldest areas and is home to an eclectic bar scene. The bars here tend to be very small so most people head outside and join the street party, meeting new friends and enjoying the buzzing atmosphere. But, there’s more to Bairro Alto than its bars. With some of the best restaurants in the city found here, it’s perfect for partygoers to enjoy a pre-party meal!
Paint the town pink
Locals say that nightlife in Lisbon follows a steady downhill motion. So travellers looking to party like a Lisboeta should take the short ten-minute walk downhill from Bairro Alto to Cais do Sodré, one of the city’s coolest neighbourhoods. It brims with lively bars and popular dance clubs – some not closing until 6am. At the heart of the action is Rua Nova do Carvalho, once the city’s red light district and now known as “Pink Street” due to its bright pink pavement.
Head to the “it” riverside district …
Trendy Alcântara is one of the liveliest places-to-be in Lisbon. Docas de Santo Amaro, a marina beneath the breathtaking 25 de Abril Bridge, is filled with popular bars and restaurants converted from old warehouses and with outdoor terraces overlooking the waterfront. Nearby, the Shoreditch-inspired Village Underground Lisboa is built out of abandoned shipping containers and double-decker buses and hosts an exciting programme of DJ sessions and other live music performances.
… and the newest happening neighbourhoods
To the east of Lisbon, bordering the River Tagus, the neighbourhoods of Marvila and Beato are becoming Lisbon’s newest happening districts after dark. Once the city’s manufacturing heart, these neighbourhoods are now nightlife hubs with abandoned warehouses and industrial buildings converted into fashionable bars, restaurants and clubs … while Marvila’s artisan breweries make sure there’s plenty of beer on tap!
Reach for the sky
As “the city of seven hills”, it’s no wonder that Lisbon is home to a vast choice of rooftop bars with spectacular views, the perfect place to enjoy a drink or two while watching the sun go down. From relaxing hidden gems to sophisticated nightspots for people watching, there’s a bar for every mood.
Partying in Lisbon is not just limited to the city centre, and its waterside location offers other great party options, ideal for the summer months.
Party on the Tagus
The River Tagus is at the heart of Lisbon, and provides the perfect backdrop for a night on the water. Party boats offer live DJ music, drinks and appetizers … while partygoers enjoy the stunning views of the river and the city. And as they often depart at sunset and return by midnight, the night is still young for those looking to continue the party at one of the many waterfront bars. Visitors looking for quieter options can enjoy a sunset cruise with wine or hire a boat for a private party with friends. The departures are made in the South and South-East Station, near Terreiro do Paço.
For more information, ideas, and inspiration on enjoying Lisbon after dark, please go to www.visitlisboa.com
