Lisbon bars are renowned as some of the best in Europe, offering a unique experience. Many line the cobblestone streets, with people filling these picturesque Lisboeta streets at night with a drink in hand. Lisbon bars play a large role in the nightlife routine of a local. You rarely only plan a night out in a club, but rather head to a bar after dinner and stay there until at least 1 AM, only then heading to your favorite Lisbon club. It’s important to find the right bar for you, one that will probably still be with you and become a part of your nightlife routine, as well. In no time, you’ll be asking the Portuguese bartender for “o costume, por favor” (the usual, please). If you’re overwhelmed by the endless nightlife options, we have selected our favorite bars in Lisbon so that you can avoid the tourist traps and experience Lisbon like a local.
Book Pub Crawl & Bar Experiences in Lisbon
1. Pensao do Amor
Pensao Amor translates to “Love In” and is located in Cais do Sodre, near the city’s old red-light district. The building was once a brothel house and is decorated with peep show and burlesque memorabilia. While the bar is currently under renovation, it is set to reopen soon. This dim-lit bar is known for its romantic atmosphere with mirrors and paintings of nude people covering the inside of the bar.
2. Bahr at Bairro Alto Hotel
Bahr is a restaurant and bar at the Bairro Alto Hotel. Run by Michelin Star Chef Nuno Mendes, the Bahr is located on the hotel’s rooftop. The interior is designed by The Studio, a simple room with intricate details and an open-space kitchen. Take the elevator to the fourth floor and enjoy one of the best views of the Tejo River and the nearby rooftops. Bahr is open from early morning to midnight.
3. O Palheta
Under three years old, O Palheta is located in Cais do Sodre and is always filled with young people having a drink before going out clubbing. You can expect good music, cool vinyl records, and cheap drinks. The inside of the bar is quite small, as well as cozy and well decorated. Most people stand outside the bar anyway, socializing and having a drink: the “Lisboeta” way.
4. Park Bar
Park bar is one of the trendiest rooftop bars in Bairro Alto and all of Lisbon. Prepare to be confused when you arrive at the address. You’ll only see a huge parking garage filled with cars. Take the elevator in the parking garage and take it to the top floor. You’ll be surprised to see one of the best views of Lisbon and a terrace filled with greenery and wooden tables. This place has panoramic views of the Santa Catarina church, as well as the 25 de Abril bridge. Park Bar serves trendy cocktails, sangria, and burgers that are to die for.
5. Lost in Esplanada Bar
The trendy bar Lost in is located in Principe Real and offers a panoramic view of the city from its terrace. The colorful bar and restaurant have two main areas: an outdoor viewpoint terrace with blankets and an indoor winter terrace. The menu features healthy meals and vegetarian options such as prawn curry and vegan burgers.
6. Sky Bar
Located in the iconic Avenida da Liberdade, Sky Bar has been a Lisbon favorite for 10 years. This bar has been recently renovated as an extension of the Restaurant SEEN and offers a glamorous environment. Located on the 9th floor of the Tivoli Avenida hotel, visitors get a view of the Castle of Saint Jorge and the Tejo river, as well as the Arrabida mountains. You can try one of their signature cocktails while listening to the sound of their resident DJ.
7. Topo
Located near Rossio, Topo is a trendy bar known for its cocktail menu, run by Luis Domingos who is involved with bars such as Pharmacia. The menu is rotative, changing its 10 cocktail options, as well as selling fruit juices and smoothies. The bar is also committed to culture, the space featuring artists’ work and musical artists regularly coming in to perform. The bar also features large windows and an outdoor terrace providing views of Lisbon homes and the Castle of Saint Jorge.
8. LX Hostel Rooftop
Located in the heart of LX Factory, an area with more than 50 shops and restaurants, this rooftop bar is situated at the top of LX Hostel. The hostel is regularly filled with young international people, providing a vibrant and cosmopolitan environment. LX Hostel Rooftop opens in the afternoon where you can enjoy a selection of cocktails, beers, and wines just in time for sunset. Decorated in a boho-chic vibe, the rooftop is filled with tables and relaxing couches to enjoy a drink with a panoramic view of Lisbon.
9. Zé dos Bois Gallery
Founded in 1994, Galaria Ze dos Bois (ZDB) is a large art center in the heart of Bairro Alto. ZDB produces exhibitions, hosts over 150 art events the year, and also offers musical and dance performances. While this place is known as an art center, ZDB is an equally nice place to grab a drink, welcoming a more alternative scene. The place features an outdoor terrace for those warmer nights and a large indoor space with plenty of seating area. The best nights to visit are when a show is on and you can check their program online.
⬇️Please share your favorite bars in Lisbon in the comments below ⬇️
