High energy, intimate club showcasing DJs and performers across music genres, featuring both Portuguese and international acts. Come here for the people watching and the cheap drinks. 

Located an hour's drive from Lisbon, this jagged cliffside marks the westernmost point of continental Europe. The spectacular views, and dramatic, sweeping landscapes make for an incredible photo-op, and its proximity to Sintra, the resort town known for its colorful castles, means it can be easily incorporated into a day trip. 

The recently opened Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology is a stunning, gargantuan building that seems to rise out of the Belem waterfront. The museum’s sleek and contemporary design is reason enough to visit, and the dynamism of the exhibits — the museum aims to feature 20 new exhibits each year — means you’ll always have something new to see.

One of Lisbon’s premier nightclubs, this is where the fashion and celebrity set spend a night out. On the ground level, you’ll find a DJ spinning EDM tracks for a raucous dance crowd, but there’s also an upstairs dance floor where the mood is decidedly more tame. Head up to the rooftop for some fresh air, or to watch the sun come up.

Part cocktail bar, part erotic bookstore, this spot is intimate, theatrical, and decadent without being intimidating. Come here for a burlesque show or to explore the hidden nooks and crannies of the club with your SO (or new Portuguese lover). The risque decor and cocktail names may elicit a few snickers, but the building formerly housed a brothel, so embrace the ambiance and keep an open mind.

A spacious, Scandinavian-inspired cafe serving speciality coffee and pastries. You could spend a whole day browsing the huge collection of indie magazines, making it the perfect repose for when you can’t bring yourself to walk up one more of those notoriously steep streets.

A trendy, Instagram-friendly spot for all-day breakfast worth stumbling out of bed for. Take in the cavernous, whitewashed brick, minimalist decor, and trompe l’oeil ceiling mirror while perusing the menu, an homage to the world’s greatest, most versatile breakfast item — the egg — with dishes like eggs benedict, truffled omelets, huevos rancheros, and eggs rothko. Wash it down with a fresh juice or smoothie and you’ll be ready to face the day.

Paris has macaroons, Vienna has its sachertorte, and Lisbon has the pastel de nata, a sweet tart made of a divinely creamy egg custard surrounded by a flaky puff pastry crust. Pasteis de Belem may be the most famous bakery in the city serving up these tasty treats, but if you don’t have the time to venture all the way there, this spot near Bairro Alto gives them a run for their money.

Jose Avillez is a culinary behemoth in the Lisbon food scene: He operates ten restaurants in the city, including Lisbon’s first two-michelin starred restaurant, Belcanto, has published four cookbooks, and even has own TV show — basically, if it’s a Jose Avillez property, you know it’s going to be good. At Avillez’s first gourmet bar, expect to find a playful yet elevated tasting menu serving small plates like foie gras Ferrero Rocher bonbons and edible margaritas and caipirinhas, all in an intimate setting.

For haute cuisine that won’t break the bank, head to the small, 30-seat restaurant in Barrio Alto. On offer: The single tasting menu that changes seasonally, is both refined and playful, featuring singular dishes such as a cuttlefish cappuccino, mackerel pate, and the restaurant’s signature codfish clothesline, which is exactly what is sounds like: fried strips of codfish hanging on a mock clothesline, paying homage to the many clotheslines strung from the apartments in the neighborhood. Be sure to reserve ahead of time.

Ask any young Lisboan where they go for ultra-fresh seafood and they’ll name this Peruvian-meets-Portuguese restaurant among their top picks. The tasting menu is excellent (and well priced) and you can't go wrong with any of the ceviches. There's almost always a line to get in, so order a Pisco Sour from the bar window and claim a stool at one of the outdoor tables for prime people-watching while you wait.

Time-tested by a century of drinkers. The shots of sweet cherry liqueur served from the pint-sized open-fronted bar are known for packing a punch.

Emerging from the foothills of Sintra Mountain, the once-royal sanctuary is now open to the people. Take the train from Lisbon for a day trip to explore the 9th-century ruins of Castelo dos Mouros, stroll the hidden trails of Pena Park with 2,000 varieties of plant-life, and imagine yourself in the shoes of a royal as your footsteps echo through the elaborate interior halls of Pena Palace. Then go to Tivoli Palácio de Seteais for a long, leisurely lunch, followed by a visit to Quinta de Regalieria, where you can wander for hours around the Game of Thrones-like castle, pausing for pictures at the subterranean tower.

A previously unused part of the city where an old wiring factory stood has been re-conceptualized as an industrial complex devoted to the arts. Fashion, architecture, music, multimedia, communication – anything creative can occur on these grounds. Visitors are welcome to shop, explore an artist’s work, try inventive food, and be inspired by the re-creation of a forgotten city quarter.

Constructed between 1514 and 1520 as a bulwark for the city, the picturesque tower casts a lovely reflection in the surrounding water and can be explored by history buffs and those who appreciate a nice photo op.

With a facade and decor preserved from its foundation in 1925, Portugal’s last shop singularly devoted to the manufacture and sale of fine leather gloves is both an experience and a source for a memorable souvenir. Their reputation for high-quality products has transcended the tiny storefront, which can accommodate no more than two guests at a time.

A shop intended to preserve the memories and products made in Portugal – both traditional and modern. From linens to stationery, perfumes to traditional quince jellies, every traveler is guaranteed to find a souvenir (or two) to tote home.

A Neo-Arab palace from the 19th century has been transformed into a concept space and commercial gallery. Work showcases culture, fashion, gastronomy, and design, blending innovation with historical architecture of the Príncipe Real neighborhood. Open for guests to shop, dine, and explore.

Bringing Paris to Lisbon, this chic storefront, with quaint decor from its origin in the late 19th century, sells a range of fine household linens, accessories, and soaps. With all goods imported from France, the flagship store represents the historical Portuguese crush on French finery.

The family business and staple of downtown Portugal since the early 1900’s specializes in beautifully packaged fish in tin cans.

Colognes, lotions, and other potions, each perfectly displayed and tantalizing to test. The colorful environment and pleasing scents create a full-bodied experience. You can also find stationary and soaps that make for great travel gifts.

A veritable tile mecca with rows upon rows of antique tiles stored neatly and grouped by century.

For a mix of street food and more substantial dishes by Michelin-star chefs, head to the city’s oldest and largest food market, where the best of Lisbon cuisine is housed together under one bustling roof.

Inspired by the best of Portuguese flavors, renowned chef Jose Avillez opened the warehouse-like space to house a mixture of mouth-watering epicurean experiences, including a gourmet deli named Mercearia; Taberna for those with a substantial appetite; and the seafood-focused Páteo.

A cervejaria with a modern atmosphere, twelve tables, several beers on tap,  and traditional Portuguese cooking and composed dishes. There's a section on the menu devoted to rice, and a big lobster tank in the room. The can’t miss dish: arroz de mariscos, a seafood rice served in a cast-iron pot with lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams.

A boutique guesthouse with only five rooms overlooking a charming little park in trendy Principe Real. Guests are intended to relax — the vibes are hospitable and the design is minimalist and Scandi-inspired.

Decorated in warm colors, on the upscale Avenida da Liberdade, the 5-star hotel has an inviting patio and small swimming pool. Locals hang out here for brunch on the patio or after-work cocktails.

A beautiful B&B on a peaceful street in one of the city's hippest neighborhoods has superb views, perfect for those wanting a homey vibe. The decor blends cool with cozy.

Bordering the historical Chiado and the bohemian Bairro Alto neighborhoods, this hotel brings its central location into the design, blending classic cultural pieces with exotic splashes of contemporary design. It is walking distance from Lisbon’s main attractions, including São Carlos Theatre, Basilica of the Martyrs, and A Brasileira, the famous pastry shop.

Refurbished from the late 18th century, this 12-room apartment building maintains original construction elements like antique wood floors and paneled ceilings — authentic Portuguese design. The delicately decorated apartments blend the best of both worlds: apartment-style rooms give guests their own living space while full-service and personalized recommendations can be given when needed.

From the same owners of the amazing Memmo Alfama, this recently opened 5-star boutique hotel in Lisbon’s trendiest neighborhood doubles as a secret sightseeing spot — the city views are breathtaking. The neighborhood remains a residential district filled with gardens, a couple of the city's most tranquil squares, and colorful mansions.

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A hip new spot set in a gorgeous building (circa1908) in the most up-and-coming and multicultural part of town. It hosts a gallery featuring pieces by contemporary Portuguese artists Vanessa Teodoro, Bordallo II, David Oliveira, and Irmãos Marques.

Enjoy the serene design by local architect Manuel Aires Mateus in this refurbished 18th-century building offering six spacious rooms, a communal dining table, and a secluded garden. On the hotel’s doorstep you’ll find the legendary flea market Feira da Ladra, which is open every Tuesday and Saturday.

Originally the home of a Portuguese count, this elegant building was transformed into a hotel by architect Teresa Nones da Ponte and interior designer Andrea Previ. It blends classical Portuguese architecture with sleek, modern decor. The Queen’s and King’s Suites are the hotel’s crowning achievements, showcasing original decorative details like Rococo-style molding, hand-painted 18th-century Portuguese tiles, and intricately carved wood paneling.

Located between two iconic Lisbon landmarks — the historic Belém Tower and the mid-20th-century Monument to the Discoveries — the bar at the Belém Altis Hotel & Spa is fantastic for post-sightseeing beverages with great views of the Tagus River.

See Lisbon from a new perspective atop this ultra modern rooftop bar. When you're done taking in views of São Jorge Castle and the pastel houses of the old city, order a few expertly crafted cocktails made by master bartenders at Black Pepper & Basil.

Housed in a former fishing tackle shop, the restaurant helped transform the Cais de Sodré district into one of Lisbon's coolest. Order a few conservas (tins of sardines, tuna, and other preserved fish) with beer or wine for an authentic and affordable happy hour.

For a typical night out in Lisbon, this traditional bar is one of the most distinctive in Barrio Alto. Go for red wine, roasted sausage, and fado, a type of popular Portuguese song accompanied by mandolins or guitars.

Ancient and picturesque, the city's oldest district is known for its panoramic pleasures, hidden gardens, and tiny bars that serve small bites. Stroll along the narrow cobbled streets or hitch a ride on the quaint number 28 tram.

A small, upscale beach town brimming with shops and cafes, just 30 minutes from Lisbon. Locals say Lisbon is for doing things, but Cascais is for living and relaxing. Wander the narrow historic streets, stop into boutiques, or take a bike ride along the coast.

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A cervejaria with a modern atmosphere, twelve tables, lots of beers on tap, and traditional Portuguese cooking and composed dishes. There's a section on the menu devoted to rice. And there's a lobster tank. The can't-miss dish: arroz de mariscos, a seafood rice served in a cast-iron pot with lobster, shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams.

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Chef-owner André Magalhem is a sweetheart. You walk into his restaurant, and he's everywhere at the same time. He's in the kitchen, he's in the dining room, he's pouring you wine, he's talking to you about what he found at the market that morning. The restaurant has six tables and a small bar that three people can stand up against. He's serving dishes like cured octopus roe, sliced like sashimi, snails, and various kinds of tuna, fresh from the Azores.

One of Portugal's only restaurants with two Michelin stars. Chef José Avillez worked at El Bulli for awhile, and is now taking traditional Portuguese rustic cooking and turning it upside down. The food is very avant-garde in texture and presentation, but the dishes taste just like they were made by a Portuguese grandma.

The place to go for fresh seafood. Period. You’ll be mid-lunch, and a fisherman will walk in with the latest catch of the day. It's casual and boisterous with loud, clanking silverware and lines out the door.

Since 1837, the old-world bakery has been making Lisbon's famous Portuguese egg tarts by hand using traditional methods. The pastries, filled with custard cream and lightly dusted with cinnamon, are enjoyed all hours of the day, but it's best to pick up a fresh batch in the evenings to avoid the crowds during the morning and afternoon rush.

Bring home a piece of Lisbon — specifically, iconic azulejos (tiles). While there's no shortage of shops selling a variety of the colorful squares, many are blatantly inauthentic. For the real deal, make the trip to Chiado to visit the antique tile specialists.

Barter for an eclectic mix of housewares, clothing, antiques, and tiles at the city's bric-a-brac flea market. Open from dawn to dusk on Saturdays and Tuesdays.

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