Bairro Alto Lisbon
Bohemiam Rhapsody
Commercial development caused a growth in population and Bairro Alto was born at the end of the 15th century. Bairro alto is located on one of the hills, opposite Saint George's Castle and is one of the oldest quarters of Lisbon. It's organized into a hierarchical scheme of roads and lanes: Main roads run perpendicular to the river while the secondary streets cut parallel to the river. One can easily get lost in the narrow streets and blind alleys. Asymmetry is the rule and houses are packed together. Balconies seem to almost touch the opposite building's walls.
This quarter used to be a dangerous place at night. Prostitutes and thieves gathered in dark corners. Sailors were drunk and police... were not welcome. Now, after some hard work, the noisy pubs and dirty streets have given way to a trendy and pleasant quarter where designers and intellectuals live in their lofts with hidden terraces. The once busy streets are now pedestrian. Some consider that the "Portuguese Movida" was born here in the 80's.
Nowadays, this is one of the best quarters to explore. Old "Tascas" like Tasca Do Chico are waiting for you. To enjoy a perfect view have a look at the terrace of Bairro Alto Hotel. Stop for some souvenirs at Bairro Arte and do as locals do: Grab a beer and walk through the streets looking for your friends. That's what I always do. End the night at Capela and have fun at Bairro Alto!
About this spot
Rua da Rosa
- 09:00 - 02:00 daily (depending on location)
€
no-price
Find your way with 206 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Lisbon
Choupana Caffe
Brunch café
"Choupana Caffe" in Lisbon makes some amazing brunch - in my opinion, the best in town. My favorites are the scones, the croissants & the fresh juices...
by
Sara
Trigo
Linha d'Água
Get a deep breath
"Linha d'Água" is a perfect park in Lisbon to relax, enjoy a book, sit in peace next to the fountain... Just be careful: the birds might steal your food!
by
Sandra
Lopes
Royal Café
Healthy lunch & brunch
"Royal Café" is a nice, almost hidden place to have breakfast, lunch or an afternoon snack in Lisbon. Their main specialties are natural, organic products.
by
Erik
Lassche
Village Underground
Alternative Lisbon
"Village Underground" Lisbon is a creative incubator space, a co-working community & an events destination. I just love the progressive vibe of the place.
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
RD's Restaurante
Nepalese food
"RD's Restaurante" is THE Nepalese restaurant in the city. I love their momos in every version. Very tasty and great if you're on a budget!
by
Ana Carolina
Boldrini
MAAT
The most catchy museum
MAAT, a stunning modern building in Lisbon, offers a permanent exhibition on electricity and rotating art shows. Enjoy the river views and café afterward!
by
Alzbeta
Repakova
Picoas Street Art
Art attack!
Lisbon was sleeping while some of the new urban artists and graffiti artists were painting and drawing over vacant buildings in town...
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
Conserveira de Lisboa
Est. 1930
"Conserveira de Lisboa" Lisbon is a traditional grocery shop located in the city centre offering an excellent selection of local products and fresh stock.
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
Caza das Vellas Loreto
Lisbon's oldest candleshop
"Caza das Vellas Loreto" Lisbon was founded on the same day of the French Revolution. They light their candles for all sorts of events and is beautiful...
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
The Amoreiras Wall
Art Attack II!
"The Amoreiras Wall" is a huge mural, perhaps the biggest graffiti wall in the Iberian Peninsula, and most definitely in Lisbon, an open-air museum!
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
Heading to Lisbon?
206 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Lisbon?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 206 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Lisbon
Get to know our other Spotters from Lisbon
As featured on:
