I've lived in this quarter for 20 years, surprisingly, it hasn't changed much. Besides the aggressive car parking, the quarter remains a hidden oasis with large sidewalks, gardens and magnificent avenues. It's still my favorite place to live. Here, everyone has their own small garden and friendly neighbors still talk to each other. I've had the same friends since high school.
Alvalade quarter was planned 70 years ago, and even nowadays it's surprising that this urban example is not more valued in other new cities. It's an ideal form of urbanism with small three-floor buildings - all yellow or pink - with simple, functional architecture.
Alvalade is still a good and peaceful place to live. There are old pubs like Grog (check the Grog article), and small shops open ever since I can remember. Here, the Portuguese punk movement has also started, giving birth to bands as Censurados. The quarter blends aristocrats with poor families and is a good example of a place with no social tensions.
The Mercado de Alvalade is a good place to start the day, head to Avenida da Igreja for some shopping or stroll along the main streets. Try Café Tintin at Roma avenue. This avenue is also a good place for a long walk and if you're starving, go straight to the original Frutalmeidas small grocery for the best "Pastéis de Massa Tenra". For a chill-out place, check Esplanada da Mata.
Avenida da Igreja
€
no-price
Find your way with 208 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"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...
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"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!
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"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.
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"Village Underground" Lisbon is a creative incubator space, a co-working community & an events destination. I just love the progressive vibe of the place.
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"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!
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"Mercado de Alvalade Norte" Lisbon is a local market offering a selection of fresh live stock and delicious bites, featuring anything from fish to fruits!
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Lisbon was sleeping while some of the new urban artists and graffiti artists were painting and drawing over vacant buildings in town...
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"Barbearia Campos" in Lisbon is one of Europe's oldest barber shops. Come here, get freshened up like the famous and start feeling the pulse of the city!
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"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...
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"Conserveira de Lisboa" Lisbon is a traditional grocery shop located in the city centre offering an excellent selection of local products and fresh stock.
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"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!
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"Pastelaria Mexicana" Lisbon is a Portugese family run fine pastry shop near Londes square. I'd suggest going for cake with a cup of cold milk- heavenly!
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208 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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✓ 208 Insider Tips