After spending a few summers partying in Lisbon, I knew that one of my fave party streets is the rainbow street adjescent to another popular pub street of Bairro Alto. Speckled with the best bars in Lisbon in and around, its a tourist hot spot.
Best Bars in Lisbon Portugal – Experts Speak
Fellow travel bloggers pitched in with their views on Lisbon nightlife spots in this post. So here goes –
Manteigaria Silva by Nofar Ronen at Traveling Outside the Box
Okay, so this article might be about Lisbon’s best bars, but let me take you slightly off the traditional path, to Manteigaria Silva, a historic delicatessen in the heart of Lisbon that’s been operating for over 100 years. Don’t let the word “deli” fool you, this place can easily turn into your favorite mid-morning or afternoon wine spot (especially for those who don’t mind a glass of wine before noon).
I first discovered it during a food tour, and it was actually our very first stop, what a way to start the day! Inside, the counters are filled with an incredible variety of Portuguese cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties. You can order a custom platter of cheeses, charcuterie, or both, pair it with a glass (or bottle) of regional wine, and enjoy it standing outside by one of the old wine barrels that serve as tables.
The atmosphere is authentic, local, and relaxed, just great flavours and a genuine taste of Lisbon’s culinary heritage. Everything we tried was delicious, and the staff were friendly and welcoming, eager to help you pick the perfect combinations.
Whether you’re on a food tour or just wandering through downtown Lisbon, Manteigaria Silva is the kind of place that makes you fall in love with the city’s old-world charm, one slice of cheese and sip of wine at a time.
Schedule:
Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Sunday and holidays: Closed.
The Secret Poet’s Society – By Marga of Discover Portugal
There is a lot to see and do in Lisbon, but the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down! After or before dinner, there are some fantastic bars to discover in Lisbon. And some are just a little extra special, such as The Secret Poets Society.
During your sightseeing, you may have already heard about famous Portuguese poets such as Fernando Pessoa and Luís de Camões. This speakeasy was actually inspired by Fernando Pessoa, making it a creative tribute to Portugal’s literary past.
It’s a true hidden gem! At street level, it looks like an ordinary pastel de nata shop that’s closed for the day. But after ringing the bell, you’ll be welcomed by a big smile! Descend to the basement and enjoy relaxed vibes and some of the best and inventive cocktails you’ll find in Lisbon!
The menu changes regularly, and it might look a bit mysterious at first. Expect surprising flavour combinations from raspberry and mushroom to even curry! All cocktails are inspired by the Portuguese poets and come with their own story. The staff are fantastic at helping you find your perfect match. If you love creative mixology, don’t miss this place!
Javá By Ulysse of Slow Sight Soul
I found Javá almost by accident, after spending an hour talking with a total stranger in Lisbon’s streets. This guy told me that one of his favourite bars in Lisbon was the Java Bar, and so I came back the next day to check if his enthusiasm was actually justified.
The answer? Absolutely! As soon as I stepped in after climbing into the old 8 Building lift near Cais do Sodré, I was stunned. The doors opened, and in front of me, a huge rooftop with Lisbon unfolding around me.
I ordered a Mezcal Bloom cocktail which was delicious from the first sip. What I love here is the atmosphere and the views. It’s less fancy than other rooftops but feels more convivial, with lots of locals.
In a nutshell, on my slow travel journey across Europe, Javá has become a favourite bar. The best time to go is between 5:30 pm and 6 pm before the sunset crowds arrive. Then, catch the last sunbeam and enjoy your night, my friend!
Restaurante El Vicente by Alice of Panoramic Pathways
At the southern edge of Chiado, Restaurante El Vicente occupies a former charcoal warehouse whose beautiful brick arches, vaulted ceilings and stone walls now frame a space that’s equal parts historic and comfortable. The name itself nods to the building’s past—cellars like this once kept crows, known as “Vicentes,” to warn of poor air.
It’s not a party bar, and that’s part of the appeal. The lighting is low, the music stays in the background, and the atmosphere feels relaxed but refined. The striking bar is the centerpiece of the room—well stocked, neatly run, and easy to settle into.
Locals and visitors fill the tables, and service is friendly and attentive. The wine list leans Portuguese, with a few thoughtful choices from the Alentejo, and the cocktails are simple, balanced, and well made.
It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a hearty meal, linger over another round, and feel that you’ve discovered a small, timeless corner of Lisbon.
Magnolia By Jill from Jillonjourney.com
Located within the gorgeous Praça das Flores in the heart of the São Bento quarter, Magnolia Wine Bar is a true hidden gem. It’s in a lively neighbourhood, yet off the beaten path in Lisbon. What makes this bar so special, is definitely its vibe.
There are only a handful of chairs inside and a few more outside, so it gets cozy. But with the large windows open, you can sip your cocktail while watching people passing by. Not only do they have an outstanding selection of wines (both with and without alcohol) and amazing vermouth. But they also serve fantastic food. Platters you can share that are always surprising and all of them delicious, including the vegetarian options.
And every single person of the staff I’ve talked to was incredibly friendly and helpful when it comes to choices.
Magnolia is simply the perfect place to enjoy a warm summer day in Lisbon. Make sure to reserve, as it gets full quickly.
Pensao Amor – By Jyotsna Ramani of WanderWithJo
One of my favorite bars in Lisbon was the lovely ex – brothel themed joint called Pensao Amor. (aka Pensão Amor). This place has a pole dancing room with live performances, a quirky sex museum themed corner and the lavish red walled and carpeted bar.
Think chandeliers, erotic photographs and sultry drapes – this pretty much makes Pensao Amor a tourist hot spot and an erotic museum of sorts with amazing DJ nights to boast of.
Special Mentions of other top Bars in Lisboa –
Noobai Rooftop Bar
Noobai is in the heart of Lisbon’s old town. You can gawk at the panoramic views of the city whilst sipping scrumptious cocktails served by their smiling staff.
Purex – Best Lesbian Bar
Surely one of the coolest bars in Lisbon is – Purex. Pumping out retro music with a cool DJ lineup every weekend night, Purex is the lesbian hotspot in Lisbon. Very safe for solo female travelers and solo party goers (like yours truly).
Side Bar – Best Gay Bar
Looking for a fun, frilly LGBTQ friendly place in Lisbon for a night out? Sidebar is the place to go. Lowkey gay bar in Bairro Alto, this place oozes of FUN through and through. Quirky , loud and PINK decor brightens the place and smiley bartenders are always happy to serve you the deadliest concoctions.
So this was our handpicked selection of the best bars in Lisbon. Did we miss any? Feel free to contact me to add your inputs 🙂
This alongside regular visits to Indian jungles in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger, fueled her zest for adventure, nature and wildlife.
Now she is a renowned travel blogger, outreach expert and has worked with over 500 travel brands in the last 15 years.
