Experience Lisbon like a local.
Colourful buildings, picturesque views, vintage trams…Lisbon is a gem city of Western Europe. Even with it’s recent and ongoing gentrification you can still soak up the shabby-chic glamour of the city. With its distinct yet close-by neighbourhoods it is a place you can easily wander on foot, capturing all the city has to offer. Here we share with you our favourite local spots, things to do and places to eat so you can experience Lisbon like a local.
Our favourite ways to experience lisbon like a local
Miradouro de Graca – Popular with the locals for its views over Mouraria, Alfama, Baixa and the Castelo de Sao Jorge. Here you can enjoy a drink on the terrace and learn about one of Portugal´s finest poets, Sophia de Mello Breyner Andresen.
Ginginha sem Rival, Rossio – Literally meaning ´gin without a rival´ this family business opened its doors in 1890 and has been going strong ever since. The bar is only 20sq foot so easy to pass by, but just look for the queues and you will find it!
Feira da Ladra – A local flea market, here you will can find hidden treasures or just some junk! Artisan goods are popular and you can also find books, military objects, furniture, antiques, coins and clothes.
O Trevo, Chiado – Local provider of all Portuguese classics – bifanas, salgado, pataniscas de bacalhau, chamucas and much more. Visit this classic Lisbon eaterie for a real Portuguese experience.
Pavilhao Chines – Is this place a bar or a museum? Artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries adorn these rooms, making this bar something of a cult location for both locals and tourists. A must see!
LX Factory – Set within former textile factories, this derelict space has been transformed into restaurants, coworking spaces and boutique stores. It is also a great place to see some street art and you can now wander next door to Village Underground and enjoy a coffee on the double decker bus restaurant!
7. Selva – A gorgeous and dog friendly cafe, serving healthy breakfast and all day brunch with organic juices and great coffee.
8. MAAT – Super cool museum of art, architecture and technology. Next door and part of the complex is the stunningly unique Electricity Museum.
9. Riverside of Almada – Journey across the river to turn and admire the great views of Lisbon across the water. The Cachilas / Almada riverbank is home to some fabulous restaurants. We like Ponto Final and Altira-te ao Rio.
10. Embaixada Portuguese Shopping Gallery – Located In a former new-Arabian palace, this innovative shopping gallery focuses on Portuguese brands. Artisanal products, local cuisine and culture all make this is delightful shopping experience.
classic portugal
Classic Portugal is a luxury tours and bespoke tours agency. As travel designers we thrive on curating private tours and custom travel across Portugal. We design intimate experiences to make your trip to Portugal especially memorable. Uncover a unique journey though Portugal and its wonders: gastronomy, art, culture, wellness and more all await you. From prestigious wineries to chic beach clubs; from sleepy, hidden villages to dazzling city nights; from luxurious spas to Michelin star restaurants, your bespoke tour will include all the best Portugal has to offer.
Portugal is a European gem, with distinct locations and beautiful scenery. We seek out Portugal´s best, curating tours for our clients which they will carry in their hearts forever. Our specialities include luxury wine tours, luxury bespoke tours, luxury travel in Portugal, private travel and tours, luxury mini-breaks, luxury stays and luxury holidays. We partner with some of the most acclaimed luxury hotels, wineries and restaurants in Portugal. All of our bespoke travel itineraries are private and personal. We publish your itinerary in our travel app, giving you constant visibility and access to your luxury trip. Our professional chauffeurs and certified tour guides guarantee you are taken good care of and have the most wonderful experience of this beautiful, warm and charming country.
Our vision as a company is to offer world-class client services, with meticulously designed travel itineraries and the most luxurious experiences. We will take care of all your needs and desires in Portugal. Our concierge service is available on all luxury bespoke tours. From private cars, to fine dining to tickets for concerts and sports events, we take care of it all. Our values are important to us. We are inclusive and culturally aware. We believe in social change and equality for all. Inclusion and diversity ignites our creativity, bringing us closer to our clients and our communities. We are experienced in working with global clients, always working in a transparent and communicative way, seeking out new ways of engagement and innovation. Our mission to be the leading lifestyle experts and travel specialists for luxury journeys across Portugal. Please see our full tour programme. If you liked this Experience Lisbon like a local blog post, you may also like How About Portugal for Honeymoon? and The Legend of Azores Seven Cities Lagoon post!
