Take a trip to the doll hospital
Putting smiles on children’s faces since 1830, this unusual hospital repairs favourite dolls, teddy bears and other toys which have seen better days. The oldest of its kind in the world and hidden in the depths of downtown Lisbon, this is one experience you won’t forget in a hurry!
Visit the world’s oldest bookshop
A favourite haunt of Portuguese writers and intellectuals since 1732, Livraria Bertrand is the globe’s oldest bookstore still in operation. It’s changed hands, locations and had 11 different names, but for 286 years up to this very day, it has served Lisbon’s bibliophiles and provided a space for intellectual conversations and debates.
Drink a ginjinha on the street
You may think Portugal is best known for port wine (it’s in the name after all), but Lisbon’s official drink is actually ginjinha. A favourite with the locals, this sour cherry liqueur is ordered at the counter of a tiny tavern and sipped on the streets. Whether you have it with (com) or without (sem) the cherry, ginjinha is best enjoyed with locals!
Watch the sunset…from a car park
This may sound like an odd suggestion, especially when Lisbon’s many miradouros (viewpoints) offer spectacular views of the city. However, one of the best places to watch the sun go down is Park Bar, a quirky bar located on top of a multi-storey car park. Find it by entering the car park and venturing up a graffitied set of stairs.
Hang out at the LX factory
What used to be a fabric factory in Lisbon’s golden age of industry has been transformed into a mecca of cafés, yoga studios, tattoo parlours, vintage shops, music venues and art spaces. Formerly an abandoned wasteland, this space was masterfully brought back to life in 2008. Today, huge graffiti style murals adorn the walls of this hipster haven, where Lisbon’s coolest locals gather to sip beer, cappuccinos and soak up the artsy surroundings.
Enjoy a steak sandwich…for dessert
Thinly sliced minute steak slathered in garlic marinade on a Portuguese roll – sounds like a great idea for lunch! Which is why you might be surprised when the menu at your local marisqueira suggests a steak sandwich or ‘prego’ after gorging on a seafood dinner. Try it at Cervejaria Ramiro, known for its beautiful seafood, dynamic atmosphere and traditional steak sandwiches!
As tourism continues to boom, tourists and expats are increasingly looking to get off the beaten track. We can help you find your dream property away from the visitor hot spots – for example the East Algarve remains unspoilt and relatively undiscovered (the beaches are quiet even in high season!). Feel free to get in touch for a friendly, informal and no obligation chat!
