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Newcomers to Lisbon often hit the bars around 9 pm and head home at midnight thinking that the bar scene is rather quiet. In fact, Lisbon bars don't get going until after midnight, clubs even later. On weekends, lively groups spill out of bars and stand shoulder to shoulder in the streets, especially in the lively Bairro Alto an
Newcomers to Lisbon often hit the bars around 9 pm and head home at midnight thinking that the bar scene is rather quiet. In fact, Lisbon bars don't get going until after midnight, clubs even later. On weekends, lively groups spill out of bars and stand shoulder to shou
Newcomers to Lisbon often hit the bars around 9 pm and head home at midnight thinking that the bar scene is rather quiet
Newcomers to Lisbon often hit the bars around 9 pm and head home at midnight thinking that the bar scene is rather quiet. In fact, Lisbon bars don't get going until after midnight, clubs even later. On weekends, lively groups spill out of bars and stand shoulder to shoulder in the streets, especially in the lively Bairro Alto and the revamped Cais do Sodré. Many places are rather quiet from Sunday through Wednesday although, in the summer high season, bars fill every night of the week with holidaymakers who don't need to rise early the next day.
Some dance clubs charge a cover of €15 (more on weekends), which includes one drink; if you come early you may get in free. Clubs are open from about 10 or 11 pm (but only start filling up well after midnight) until 4 or 5 am; a few stay open until 8 am. Be aware that some unscrupulous door staff will try to overcharge out-of-towners; if the price seems way over the odds, walk away.
For a less boisterous evening out, visit a café-bar or a casa de fado, where professional or amateur performers sing the city’s world-renowned, beautifully mournful style of music.
Lisbon has a well-established gay and lesbian scene, concentrated primarily in and around the Bairro Alto and the neighboring Príncipe Real area, on the way to Rato.
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Chiado and Bairro Alto
Alcântara, Cais do Sodré, and Santos
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Avenida da Liberdade, Príncipe Real, and Restauradores
The quality of both the food and the singing is dependably good at this family-run establishment, and the setting---which calls to mind the dining room of a well-traveled older relative---is always welcoming. It's a fado vadio ("vagabond") spot, meaning the night often ends with amateur singers lined up outside, raring to perform.
Rua de São Miguel 20, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-544, Portugal
A former bakery, this cool restaurant, bar, and concert venue is one of the best spots in Lisbon for live music. Local and international bands and DJs take the stage around 11 pm every night of the week.
Rua da Voz do Operário 60, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-621, Portugal
All the rage among local fado lovers, this performance space is housed in a tiny, azulejo-lined former chapel. The traditional Portuguese food is perfectly palatable, and the music and atmosphere are always top rate. You can slip in at the end of the night, order a drink or two, and enjoy the show.
Rua dos Remédios 139A, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-445, Portugal
This little club has been owned by fado legend Argentina Santos since the 1960s, and although she no longer sings, she sits by the door most nights greeting newcomers and listening to other highly rated singers. Chef Jaqueline Silva ensures the food, which includes rich seafood stews and other traditional dishes, is as appealing as the music.
Beco do Espírito Santo 1, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-222, Portugal
Prominent fadistas, both traditional singers and next-generation artists who are expanding the boundaries of the form, perform most nights in this modern café attached to the city-run Fado Museum. Since this is a popular spot, reservations are essential in the evening.
Largo do Chafariz de Dentro 2, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-139, Portugal
An international crowd flocks to this spot to hear established performers and rising stars take turns at the microphone. Dinner is pricey at this two-story restaurant, but music fans arriving from around 10:30 pm can skip the food and concentrate on the music.
Rua S. João de Praça 86–94, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1100-521, Portugal
Lisbon's most famous club is dotted with designer furniture and has two dance floors favored by big-name local and foreign DJs—plus a rooftop terrace with great river views. A young, stylish crowd comes to dance until dawn. The doormen are selective and there can be a long line so be prepared.
Av. Infante Dom Henrique, Armazém A, Lisbon, Lisbon, 1950-376, Portugal
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