From century-old liqueur joints to scenic rooftop terraces, here are some of the best bars that Lisbon has to offer.
You’ll find high-quality, reasonably priced beer and wine in pretty much every Lisbon bar. But sometimes you want something different – maybe a craft cocktail or a glass of ginjinha, the local sour cherry liqueur.
Whatever kind of drink and vibe you’re in the mood for, we’ve got you covered with our list of the best bars in Lisbon.
Foxtrot – For the speakeasy vibe
The ambience at Foxtrot is reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, with dim lighting and Art Deco details. To get inside, first you’ll need to ring the doorbell.
On cold days you can cozy up by the fireplace (a real perk in winter, as most buildings in Lisbon don’t have central heating). If it’s nice outside, head to the courtyard to enjoy the fresh air.
The menu here is extensive, ranging from creative craft cocktails to a long list of spirits and classic drinks. You’ll be served a selection of snacks with your order (think crackers and peanuts), but if you’re still hungry, try the signature steak with creamy mushroom sauce.
Insider’s tip:
- Foxtrot also makes some fantastic mocktails, for anyone who wants to enjoy the speakeasy experience sans alcohol.
Pavilhão Chinês – One of the oldest cocktail bars in Lisbon
From the outside, it’s hard to see what goes on behind the doors of Pavilhão Chinês, but we encourage you to take a peek. Once you’re in, you won’t be able to stop admiring the thousands of eclectic artifacts on display. There are miniature airplanes hanging from the ceiling and cabinets full of toy soldiers and trains.
It’s a bar, yes, but it could just as well be a museum. The owners took over an old grocery store in 1986 and turned it into an exclusive cocktail bar that attracts both locals and tourists.
Fancy a game of pool? Just head to the back, and you’ll find two tables to play on. As for the drinks, we recommend the daiquiris – but you really can’t go wrong here.
Insider’s tip:
- Pavilhão Chinês is also one of the best places to see fado in Lisbon, with live shows. Check out Real Fado for upcoming shows and tickets.
By The Wine – For wine lovers
Whether you drink red, white, or rosé, there’s plenty of vinho on offer at By The Wine. Just check the menu or browse the endless shelves to see what catches your eye. Don’t forget to look up at the arched ceiling, which is covered in hundreds of empty green bottles.
This atmospheric bar belongs to José Maria da Fonseca, one of the oldest wine producers in Portugal. You can also order petiscos (small snacks) or main dishes to accompany the delicious Portuguese wines.
We especially love the cheese from Azeitão and the salmon ceviche. For wine, be sure to try the Moscatel de Setúbal, a wine made with muscat grapes that goes perfectly with dessert.
A Ginjinha – The place to taste the local liqueur
If you’re walking past Rossio and see people holding tiny plastic cups, odds are they’re drinking ginjinha. This legendary local drink is a strong and sweet liqueur made from ginjas, or sour cherries.
And although ginjinha might be hard to pronounce, it sure goes down easy. There’s even a Portuguese saying, “sabe que nem ginjas,” which means “it tastes delicious.” A Ginjinha is one of the oldest bars in Lisbon specializing in this drink.
Before pouring it, the owners will ask you if you want it “com elas” or “sem elas” – with or without cherries. We always recommend it com elas. Not only will you get to taste the liqueur, but also the fruit itself. Just watch out for the pits.
Insider’s tip:
- Although it’s served in a shot glass, ginjinha is meant to be sipped slowly – not tossed back like a shot.
Loucos e Sonhadores – A local favorite in Bairro Alto
Most bars in Bairro Alto advertise shots and cocktails on flashy boards outside – but not this one. At Loucos e Sonhadores, which means “madmen and dreamers,” it’s all about the simple things. A glass of beer or wine and free salty popcorn is what draws locals to this relaxed venue (though it also serves cocktails).
Unlike most bars in the area, this place has plenty of space to sit down and pretty funky decor. Just make sure to arrive early to snag a spot.
Musa de Marvila – For craft beer
Musa is well known for brewing some of the best craft beer in Lisbon – and all of Portugal. Its factory is located in Marvila, which is now considered the city’s beer district thanks to its many craft breweries.
You’ll find Musa’s beers all over the country and at the brewery’s four different taprooms in Lisbon, but we’re partial to Musa de Marvila, where it all began.
Grab a seat at one of the outdoor picnic tables and order some fantastic bar food to accompany your Red Zeppelin or Twist & Stout (did we mention that all the beers’ names are musical puns?). Musa de Marvila often has live music; check the Instagram page to see what’s on.
Trobadores – A medieval tavern
Trobadores isn’t your average Lisbon bar. This cozy tavern will take you straight back to medieval times. There’s folk music playing in the background and drinks are served in horns – because why not?
If you’re not into that, you can also get yours in a terracotta cup. Locals usually order the beer on tap or the hidromel, a traditional Portuguese mead. Sometimes the bar invites folk groups to play live, which adds even more to the unique atmosphere.
Quiosque Príncipe Real – For afternoon drinks al fresco
If you’re visiting Lisbon, you absolutely must go to at least one quiosque (kiosk). These outdoor bars are dotted all over the city’s parks and squares. Many of them are operated by the same group, Quiosque Lisboa, including Quiosque Príncipe Real (Praça do Príncipe Real, 19): one of our all-time favorites.
Set at the edge of the Príncipe Real garden, this small kiosk is the perfect place to order a beer or coffee, sit in the sun, and watch the world go by. You can also get small snacks here, including classic Lisbon street food and the famous custard tarts.
Insider’s tip:
- Most Saturday mornings there’s an organic market in the garden.
TOPO Martim Moniz – An iconic rooftop bar
You can see its red neon sign reading “bar” from blocks away – but how do you get there? One of the most well known rooftop bars in Lisbon, this place shares its entrance with an unassuming shopping mall in Praça Martim Moniz. Go inside, take the elevator to the 6th floor, and you’ll find yourself at TOPO.
The views alone are worth the visit. From here you can spot the São Jorge Castle and many of Lisbon’s miradouros (viewpoints) with a cocktail in hand. There’s often a DJ playing, and many of the drinks are named after songs: Roxanne, Get Lucky, Highway to Hell… you get the idea.
Casa Independente – A cultural hub
Casa Independente (Largo do Intendente, 45) helped bring new life to the street and the surrounding area. This part of the city was once neglected, but now it’s one of Lisbon’s trendiest up-and-coming neighborhoods.
Casa Independente is more than just a bar. It’s a cultural association, a concert venue, and an art gallery all in one. There are several rooms inside where you can sit down with a drink – or head straight to the leafy interior terrace.
Insider’s tip:
- Keep an eye on the Instagram page for concerts and other cool events.
Update Notice: This post was updated on July 10, 2024.
Want to experience an evening out in true Lisbon style – and in the company of a friendly local? Our Bairro Alto Evening Food & Wine Tour is calling your name. We’ll take you to a few of the best bars in Bairro Alto, serve up some of our favorite petiscos and drinks in the city, and introduce you to our friends who proudly carry on these delicious traditions.
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