Vila Berta Lisbon
Lisbon's most beautiful street
During the Industrialization, a moment of economical growth back at the end of the 19th century gave birth to a big problem: housing. The population was growing with all the newcomers looking for a job in town... and no place to stay.
The tenements we know by the name of "vilas" were a new solution: a small quarter inside a quarter, sometimes just a "patio" with a gate - a unique "island" inside the city for the workers to live in, in most cases without paying rent, along with the necessary infrastructure.
Joaquim Tojal, a Brazilian entrepreneur and son of Portuguese emigrants just arriving in Portugal, decided to invest and start this project called Vila Berta. Look for the panel with the 1908 Art Nouveau tiles with the name "Villa Bertha" and you won't miss it.
The terraced house street is very picturesque and quiet, a hidden pearl located just 50m from the busy Largo da Graça. It shows innovative thinking with modern architecture (remember this was more than one century ago!). On your right, walking towards the tunnel at Rua do Sol à Graça, all houses have two floors, decorative tiles and were made for the working class, while on your left, they look much more extravagant and luxurious, with iron balconies decorated with flowers and showing a bourgeois look. They were built to accommodate an upper class.
Check this beautiful street just two steps from the Flea Market and have a nice walk around Graça quarter.
About this spot
Vila Berta à Graça
- 24 hours daily
€
free
Find your way with 208 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Lisbon
Hotel Bairro Alto
A breath-taking view of Lisbon
Hotel Bairro Alto is a luxury Lisbon hotel at an amazing location. I come here for the top-floor terrace – comfortable sofas, heating & a great view.
by
Erik
Lassche
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
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
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
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
Pastelaria Mexicana
Portuguese fine pastry
"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!
by
Nuno
Lopes de Paula
Heading to Lisbon?
208 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
✓ 208 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:
