If you're planning to visit Lisbon in June or if you're already here, you might have noticed that some streets are covered in purple. If you're not from around it might look like there was just the biggest party the night before and everyone's invited except... you. There's still lots of what it looks like papier-maché in the streets and squares. Don't worry, the party isn't over: in fact this could possibly be the best time of the year to visit Lisbon!
The purple leaves covering the city are from the Jacarandá trees, a species native to South America that are the messengers of the sunny days to come. Once they're in bloom, summer's here to stay.
No one knows who got the idea of introducing this species to Portugal. In Brazil, the wood from the Tupis (native name of the Jacarandá) Pau-santo, pau-rosa and pau-preto was very precious and was used in the construction of musical instruments like the guitar and cavaquinho, which almost lead to the extinction of these marvelous trees.
Here, they still cover vast areas in the city, from Rossio Square to Parque Eduardo VII or even the 5 de Outubro Avenue... they're everywhere and they are so incredibly beautiful!
Take a long walk and admire how the leaves change from blue to purple making the roads so pretty. Lisbon will be covered entirely in a carpet of lavender-coloured bluebells and the preparation for the biggest party has already started: soon it will be Santo António's day!
Largo do Correio Mor
€
free
Find your way with 208 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"Cemitério dos Prazeres" in Lisbon means 'the cemetery of pleasures' (great start-off point). It's aristocratic and very big; I'm just attracted to it...
by
"Origem" is a restaurant in Lisbon with food that doesn't leave you feeling guilty - I love their organic, delicious soup and 'at first sight' desserts!
by
"Taste of Punjab" in Lisbon has great Indian food for a reasonable price. It's not modern, crowded or touristic. Here you can just take your time & enjoy!
by
"Loja da Laurinda" in Lisbon is a traditional old shop that has everyday household articles (that also make perfect gifts). It's from another era...
by
"Lisbon’s Retro Typography" is in danger, so I invite you to take pictures of the colorful kitsch lettering & nonsense names before they're gone forever...
by
"Carvoaria Jacto" Lisbon is where I loved to go to back then when I was a meat-lover. This nice restaurant perfectly cooks meat to satisfy your meat crave.
by
"Muro Azul" in Lisbon, or the 'Blue Wall', is a hidden mural commissioned by a partnership between the Psychiatric hospital and the Urban Art Gallery...
by
"Lavra Funicular" in Lisbon may not be as fun to ride as others, but it's the most charming and quiet public transport in the city. It's my favorite...
by
"Pastelaria Aloma" is a place where you get find the best pastéis de nata I'd argue! This spot has an interesting story to tell in regards to their recipe.
by
The staff is super nice. Service is fast. Ambient music is pleasant. And most important of all - it delivers a variety of delicious brunch packs.
by
Magokoro translates to "sincerity, pure heart, uprightness", and deliver a variety of very delicious ramen. For dessert, Mochi. And to drink - Asahi beer.
by
"Mãe D'Água Amoreiras Reservoir"" a jewel unknown to tourists. It's Lisbon's old reservoir - noawadays, it's a Water Temple. I always almost jump inside...
by
208 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 208 Insider Tips