Things to do in Lisbon at night

Lisbon, the vibrant capital of Portugal, truly comes alive after dark. With its winding cobblestone streets, lively neighborhoods, historic sights illuminated under the night sky, and a world-famous nightlife scene, the city offers countless adventures for night owls and curious travelers alike. Whether you're a fan of traditional Portuguese music, scenic views, or the thrill of bustling bars and clubs, Lisbon has something for everyone once the sun sets.

Table of Contents

• Lisbon’s Scenic Sunset Spots
• Experience Fado Music
• Nighttime Tours and Activities

Lisbon’s Scenic Sunset Spots

Watching the sunset in Lisbon is a mesmerizing experience, as the city’s iconic hills and riverside setting provide countless vantage points for stunning views. Here are some of the best spots to catch the golden hour and watch the city transform as night approaches.

Sunset Views from São Jorge Castle

Perched high above the city, São Jorge Castle offers panoramic views of Lisbon, the Tagus River, and beyond. Arrive before sunset to explore the castle grounds and find the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting warm hues across the cityscape. The combination of historic walls and scenic vistas makes this a memorable place to start your evening.

Miradouros for Sunset Watching

Lisbon is known for its miradouros (viewpoints), which are scattered throughout the city and provide spectacular sunset views. Each has a unique charm, often accompanied by local musicians and small kiosks selling drinks and snacks.

Miradouro de Santa Catarina

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this viewpoint attracts both locals and visitors. Grab a drink at the kiosk and enjoy the view of the Tagus River as the sun sets. It’s a great place to unwind and take in the city’s charm.

• Location: Rua de Santa Catarina, 1200-012 Lisbon
• Hours: Open daily, 24 hours
• Cost: Free entry
• Features: Popular sunset spot with views of the Tagus River; kiosk for snacks and drinks; live music on certain evenings.

Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

For one of the highest viewpoints in Lisbon, head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte. From here, you can see iconic landmarks like the 25 de Abril Bridge and the Cristo Rei statue as the sky turns shades of pink and orange. This spot is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture Lisbon’s beauty.

• Location: Largo Monte, 1170-253 Lisbon
• Hours: Open daily, 24 hours
• Cost: Free entry
• Features: Highest viewpoint in Lisbon, offering views of landmarks like the 25 de Abril Bridge and Cristo Rei statue; a peaceful spot for photographers and sunset watchers.

Tagus River Sunset Cruise

For a unique sunset experience, hop on a Tagus River cruise. These boat tours often include drinks or light snacks and provide unparalleled views of Lisbon’s waterfront landmarks, like the Belém Tower and the Discoveries Monument. As you drift along the river, you’ll witness the city’s skyline aglow with the last light of day, a peaceful and unforgettable way to start your night in Lisbon.

Experience Fado Music

No visit to Lisbon would be complete without experiencing Fado shows, the soul-stirring traditional music that captures the essence of Portuguese culture. This melancholic genre, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, often features powerful vocals accompanied by Portuguese guitar, evoking themes of longing, love, and nostalgia. Lisbon’s Fado houses provide an intimate setting where you can immerse yourself in this beautiful art form while enjoying an authentic Portuguese meal or a glass of wine.

Tasca do Chico

One of Lisbon’s most beloved Fado bars, Tasca do Chico, is a must-visit for an authentic and cozy Fado experience. Located in the Bairro Alto district, this small, dimly lit bar attracts both locals and tourists. It’s known for its casual atmosphere and impromptu Fado performances by both seasoned and amateur singers. Arrive early to grab a spot, as this place fills up quickly.

A Severa

For a more traditional and established Fado house, A Severa offers an immersive experience with talented musicians and a full dinner menu of Portuguese cuisine. Named after one of the earliest recorded Fado singers, this venue in the Bairro Alto district provides an elegant setting where you can enjoy a fine dining experience while listening to heartfelt Fado performances.

• Location: Rua das Gáveas 51, Bairro Alto, 1200-206 Lisbon
• Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM; Fado shows typically start at 9:30 PM
• Cost: Dinner and show packages start at €40 per person
• Features: Elegant Fado house with a classic setting; named after one of the first Fado singers; offers traditional Portuguese dishes alongside the music

Fama d'Alfama

Located in the historic Alfama district, Fama d'Alfama combines a vibrant dining atmosphere with some of Lisbon’s most passionate Fado singers. This charming venue, tucked away in Alfama’s maze-like streets, offers a range of Portuguese dishes and wines, giving you the perfect taste of Lisbon’s culture and music. Known for its warm ambiance, Fama d'Alfama is ideal for those looking to experience Fado in its birthplace.

O Faia

Another classic Fado venue, O Faia has been entertaining guests since 1947. Located in Bairro Alto, this Fado house is known for its exceptional talent lineup and gourmet menu. With its refined setting and professional musicians, O Faia provides an upscale Fado experience that appeals to those seeking a deeper appreciation of the music and its history.

Lisbon’s Fado scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from intimate and rustic bars to more refined settings. Whichever venue you choose, experiencing Fado will give you a glimpse into the heart and soul of Portugal, making for an unforgettable night in Lisbon.

• Location: Rua da Barroca 56, Bairro Alto, 1200-050 Lisbon
• Hours: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM; Fado performances from 9:30 PM
• Cost: Dinner and show packages start at €50 per person
• Features: Refined Fado house known for its talented lineup; high-quality dining experience in a sophisticated setting; a perfect choice for those seeking an upscale Fado night.

Nighttime Tours and Activities

Lisbon offers an array of unique tours and activities after the sun sets, allowing you to experience the city’s charm in a whole new light. From historical tours through ancient neighborhoods to lively pub crawls, here are some of the best ways to explore Lisbon at night.

Moonlit Walking Tour of Alfama

Explore the oldest district in Lisbon, Alfama, under the soft glow of moonlight. These guided walking tours provide fascinating insights into Lisbon’s history, winding through narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional houses and Fado bars. You’ll learn about the area’s Moorish roots, the resilience of its people, and its significant role in shaping Lisbon’s culture. A nighttime tour of Alfama gives you a deeper appreciation of Lisbon’s historic beauty and unique charm.

• Location: Begins in the Alfama district, exact meeting point provided upon booking
• Schedule: Daily tours starting at 8:00 PM
• Cost: Prices start at €20 per person
• Features: A guided walk through Alfama’s narrow, historic streets; knowledgeable guides share the district’s history and charm; visit iconic spots like Lisbon Cathedral and the National Pantheon by night.

Bairro Alto Pub Crawl

Lisbon’s Bairro Alto neighborhood is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and a pub crawl here is a perfect way to experience the lively bar scene. Joining a guided pub crawl lets you meet fellow travelers and discover some of Lisbon’s best bars and clubs, many of which stay open well into the early hours. It’s a fantastic way to experience the energy of Bairro Alto, known for its narrow streets packed with people enjoying drinks, music, and good company.

Drunken History Tour

For a twist on traditional history tours, try a “drunken history” tour, where you’ll combine learning about Lisbon’s past with stops at local bars. Led by enthusiastic guides, these tours offer humorous, entertaining stories about the city’s history while sampling drinks along the way. It’s an engaging option for those who enjoy history with a bit of a twist and want to experience Lisbon’s nightlife while soaking up some local lore. Alternatively, if you're a wine enthusiast, consider joining a wine tour to explore Lisbon’s wine culture. These tours provide opportunities to taste a variety of Portuguese wines, learn about local winemaking traditions, and visit unique wine bars, adding a refined, flavorful experience to your night out.

Pink Street (Rua Nova do Carvalho)

Once Lisbon’s red-light district, Pink Street has transformed into one of the city’s trendiest nightlife spots. With its bright pink pavement and neon lights, this pedestrian-friendly street is lined with bars, clubs, and cafes. Pink Street is ideal for a bar-hopping adventure, offering everything from chic cocktail bars to casual pubs. It’s a lively area where you can experience Lisbon’s modern nightlife, perfect for a fun and colorful night out.

• Location: Rua Nova do Carvalho, Cais do Sodré, Lisbon
• Hours: Open 24 hours; bars typically operate from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
• Cost: Varies by bar; entry is generally free
• Features: Trendy nightlife area with colorful pink pavement; home to a mix of cocktail bars and casual pubs; a popular area for bar-hopping in a lively atmosphere

Drunken History Tour

For a twist on traditional history tours, try a “drunken history” tour, where you’ll combine learning about Lisbon’s past with stops at local bars. Led by enthusiastic guides, these tours offer humorous, entertaining stories about the city’s history while sampling drinks along the way. It’s an engaging option for those who enjoy history with a bit of a twist and want to experience Lisbon’s nightlife while soaking up some local lore.

Night Tram Tour

Hop on one of Lisbon’s iconic yellow trams for a unique nighttime tour of the city. Some tram routes, especially Tram 28, pass through historic neighborhoods like Graça, Alfama, and Baixa. Riding the tram at night allows you to enjoy Lisbon’s architecture and landmarks in a quieter, more relaxed setting. A night tram tour is a charming way to explore the city, especially for those looking for a scenic, laid-back experience.