23 Oct Take the Path Less Travelled: 19 Lisbon Secret Spots
Draped over seven hills, Lisbon attracts millions of people each year, keen to experience its famous, easy-going charm. Portugal’s coastal capital is bursting with iconic attractions, such as the Castelo de São Jorge, Mosteiro dos Jerónimos and the delightfully old-fashioned 28E tram.
However, as the city has grown in prominence, it can be more difficult to capture the essence of Lisbon’s authentic charm. Luckily, this is a city that rewards those who take the path less travelled. As you venture beyond the familiar, you’ll find a treasure trove of lesser-known sights waiting to be explored – without the crowds!
Join us as we step away from well-trodden tourist routes and delve into the hidden depths on an unconventional tour of Lisbon secret spots and under-the-radar treasures.
1. Palácio dos Marqueses de Fronteira
Located in the tranquil Benfica area, this 17th century palace sits within lush baroque gardens, bursting with fountains, lakes and statues. Visiting schedules are strict because it’s private property, but it offers a deep dive into Portuguese nobility and artworks, along with the largest collection of azulejos (Portuguese tiles) preserved in situ.
2. Tapada das Necessidades
Located a few steps from the end of the 28E tram line, this gorgeous garden remains a Lisbon secret spot. Belonging to the 18th century Palácio das Necessidades (now government offices), the shaded walkways, rare trees, cactus garden, and superb views over the Tagus river offer the perfect antidote to the bustling city.
3. LX Factory
This former industrial complex in Alcântara has been transformed into a creative hangout. A thriving hub of artistic expression and entrepreneurial spirit, it houses a quirky selection of shops including the beautiful bookstore, Ler Devagar. Trendy cafes, hip restaurants, art installations and a bunch of design studios provide a glimpse at the alternative side of Lisbon.
4. Quake: Lisbon Earthquake Museum
Journey back to 1755 and the most destructive natural event in Lisbon’s history. This immersive experience recounts the earthquake and tsunami that devastated the city, taking the lives of between 12,000 and 50,000 of its residents. Wander the streets of medieval Lisbon and learn about science behind this seismic disaster.
5. Street Art Tour
The vibrant streets of Lisbon are an open-air gallery. Abandoned buildings and crumbling facades are covered with a rich tapestry of urban art, from large-scale murals to intricate graffiti. Championed by local authorities, the artworks of local and international artists add colour and creativity to the streets. Street art tours offer a fun way to explore Lisbon secret spots.
6. Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
Considered Lisbon’s highest perch, this Graça hideaway takes its name from a glass-encased statue of the virgin, situated next to a chapel. Once a Lisbon secret spot for young lovers, it’s now a popular sunset hangout with sublime views over the castle, city and river – but it still draws fewer crowds than the main viewpoints.
7. Restaurante Ponto Final
Hop on the ferry across the water for an extra-special meal at this restaurant, situated in the Cacilhas neighbourhood of Almada. Here you can feast on an array of traditional Portuguese dishes while gazing at breathtaking views of the river and city. Advance booking is essential.
8. MAC/CCB Museum of Contemporary Art
Located in the Belém Cultural Centre, this contemporary art museum was formerly known as the Berardo Collection Museum. Opened in October 2023, it showcases visual arts from the 20th century to today. Artists include Andy Warhol, Picasso, Joan Miró, Jeff Koons, and Paula Rego in a range of mediums including painting, sculpture, photography and installation.
9. Feira da Ladra Flea Market
Held Tuesdays and Saturdays, this iconic flea market is one of Lisbon’s oldest. Translated as the ‘Market of Thieves’, locals and visitors alike flock to Campo de Santa Clara in Alfama to peruse an eclectic mix of stalls comprising everything from hand-made artisan goods, antiques and furniture to clothes, CDs and books.
10. Panteão Nacional
Located next to the Feira da Ladra, the National Pantheon – formerly the Church of Santa Engrácia – is Portugal’s first baroque monument. Housing the tombs of an array of distinguished Portuguese personalities from artists, writers and fado singers to presidents and explorers, it’s perhaps best known for stunning views of the city and river from its terrace.
11. Jardin do Torel
Combining a hidden garden oasis with a stunning viewpoint, Jardim do Torel remains relatively under the radar. Perched on a hill with far-reaching views over the city and river, this natural landscape is the ideal spot to stop and unwind. Pack a picnic, hop on the Lavra funicular, then recline on the grass to enjoy 180º views.
12. A Ginjinha Bar
Opened in 1840 and run by the same family for generations, A Ginjinha is a Lisbon institution. Offering standing room only, this petit bar serves only Ginja. Made by soaking morello cherries in brandy, this signature sour cherry liqueur is served throughout the city but originated here.
13. Museu Nacional do Azulejo
Many of Portugal’s buildings are adorned with exquisitely patterned and intricate tiles known as azulejos. Located in a former 16th century monastery, the National Tile Museum traces the origin of this art form from the 15th century until today. The site includes an opulent church and a huge panel illustrating Lisbon before the earthquake.
14. Jardim Botânico da Ajuda
Despite being one of the oldest gardens in the city, the Ajuda Botanic Garden remains a Lisbon secret spot. Built by the Marquis of Pombal and installed in the grounds of the Ajuda Palace, this under-the-radar treasure is home to a variety of rare plant species, along with historic structures, scenic pathways, and small lakes.
15. Restaurante Chapitô à Mesa
Perched high in the Alfama district, this quirky restaurant, circus school and rooftop bar is truly unique. Mixing bohemian charm with artistic creativity, it comprises a bar set beneath a circus tent and a restaurant with mesmerising views across the rooftops to the river and 25th April Bridge. Snack on traditional Portuguese dishes and sip a caipirinha while gazing over the city.
16. Estufa Fría
Set in Parque Eduardo VII on the edge of the lake, this botanical greenhouse provides a veritable garden oasis in the heart of the city. One of the most important green spaces in Lisbon, this living museum houses an array of lakes, waterfalls and statues, along with hundreds of tropical plant species from across the world.
17. Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Offering a lesser-known alternative to the popular TimeOut Market, this covered market in the Campo de Ourique neighbourhood is a top spot to escape the tourist hordes and rub shoulders with locals. Providing an authentic slice of Lisbon life, it combines the sale of local produce with gourmet food stalls selling local and international dishes.
18. Pavilhão Chinês Bar
Equal parts museum and old curiosity shop, the Chinese Pavilion is a unique bar in the trendy Bairro Alto district. Straddling five rooms of a former grocery store, it’s packed with vintage curiosities and oddities. Ring a bell to gain entry before a uniformed waiter sees you to your table. Sip a cocktail, play a game of pool and soak up the ambiance.
19. Livraria do Simão
As quaint as it is old, the Simão Bookshop is one of the smallest in the world. Established in the early 20th century, this nook of nostalgia occupies a mere four square metres. But while it can only hold a single person at a time, it houses around 4,000 secondhand books. The majority of the collection is in Portuguese, but there are several books in other languages, too.
Explore Iconic Attractions and Lisbon Secret Spots with Just Explore
In the internet age, it can be difficult to find places that can truly be described as ‘secret’. But if you veer from the main tourist attractions in Lisbon, you’ll be richly rewarded with an array of rare finds and under-the-radar treasures to surprise and delight.
Whether you’re booking our Highlights of Portugal tour or wish to arrange a tailor-made trip to Portugal, we’ll help you track down Lisbon secret spots to give you an authentic glimpse of Portugal’s captivating capital. Contact Just Explore today to book your holiday in Portugal.
