Lisbon has long been a hub for culture, art, and music. From soulful fado to upbeat jazz, Lisbon’s nightlife thrives on live music and offers locals and visitors an unforgettable musical journey. In this article, we explore six of the city’s best live music venues. Each club offers a unique experience and promises something special for every music lover.
1. Távola
Address: R. Cel Bento Roma 16, Alvalade
Visiting Távola in the traditional neighborhood of Alvalade feels like you’re stepping into the home of a jazz aficionado who has invited all of his local friends over for a jam session. The venue’s casual setting allows for a close connection between performers and the audience and the inviting staff will ensure that you have a great time. Due to Távola’s limited seating, try to come early if you’d like to catch all of the performers. We also suggest that you eat before you come, as the space only serves light finger food such as simple sandwiches.
It’s also important to know that Távola’s schedule varies so it is always best to check their Instagram for the latest updates before you go. It is generally open in the evenings from Tuesday to Saturday. You do not need to make reservations in advance.
2. Social B
Address – Rua da Boavista 116
Social B is a cocktail bar with great acoustics and only four traditional cocktails on the menu. For all the rest, you choose between whiskey, gin vodka, and tequila, tell the bartender if you prefer your drink sweet, strong, etc., and he will create something special just for you. While you’re sipping your cocktail, you can enjoy live music that changes depending on the evening and includes jazz and flamenco. Bring cash as they do not accept credit cards.
3. Jam Club
Address – Tv. dos Inglesinhos 49
Jam Club makes you feel at home from the moment you walk in and offers regular live concerts and a fun retro vibe. Open from 5:00 pm every evening until 2:00 am, Jam Club brings Lisbon together with its friendly environment and inviting musical performances. The club often features local Portuguese singers who sing in both Portuguese and English, and many of the singers take requests. Don’t be surprised to see the entire club often joining in. With its retro vibe and passion for live music, this club has carved out a special place in Lisbon’s nightlife.
4. Bartô
Address – Costa do Castelo 7
Located within the Chapitô cultural space, Bartô is truly the definition of a hidden gem as you have to walk through the door of a gift shop and then two floors down into a basement before engaging in one of Lisbon’s most interesting live music bars. Come for the Monday night jam sessions where local musicians walk in with their instruments, sit in a circle, and wait their turn for a solo.
Throughout the week, there are performers playing fado, samba, and many different types of music in between. Food is also served here, but be sure to call ahead for a reservation and arrive before the music starts so you can get a seat, as there are not many to go around. If you’re looking for a truly unique venue in Lisbon, this is it.
5. RCA Club
Address – R. João Saraiva 18
If you love the raw energy of live music, RCA Club is an essential stop as it is one of two clubs in the country hosting punk, gothic, metal, and rock shows. Known for its enthusiastic crowd, RCA Club hosts a variety of concerts featuring local and international bands. They also have 80s and 90s parties. While it is overdue for renovation, its retro vibe is one of its charms as it has retained its authenticity. Do bear in mind that the club often allows smoking indoors so be prepared. For more information, check out their website.
6. Nisa’s Lounge
Address – Avenida da República 5A, Algés
Nisa’s Lounge celebrates black culture in Lisbon’s western suburb of Algés. Founded by Ashanti, an American expat living in Lisbon who cares deeply about bringing people together to share in the joy of music, Nisa’s Lounge hosts a variety of R&B, soul, and jazz events with reservations required in advance (try to make them at least one week before if you can), as the space only has seats for around 15 people.
Drinks range from €10-13 with delicious signature cocktails and mocktails available. It should be noted that Nisa’s Lounge does not keep regular hours but instead are open based on upcoming scheduled events, so please check their Instagram for their next events.
