Lisbon Nightlife

With whole areas of the city being turned over to the pursuit of pleasure, Lisbon is a city that takes its nightlife seriously.

Traditionally, the Bairro Alto has been the pulsing centre at night, with its Fado music clubs, traditional canteen-style bars and upscale discos. The bars are often open as late as 0400, and many clubs only open at 0200 and don’t shut until sunrise.

Much of the action has moved on to the Docas (Docks) district, situated just to the east of the bridge, Ponte 25 de Abril. One bar after another occupies a row of converted warehouses at the Doca de Santo Amaro.

Back towards the city, Cais do Sodré’s strip is full of African inspired clubs and busy bars. Former down at heel district Intendente is home to the hippest arty night outs, but you might need to get chatting to a local to find the hidden bars in places like old social clubs. During the summer, vibrant performances are staged in every possible venue, from parks to palaces.

The fortnightly tourist magazine Follow Me Lisboa (www.visitlisboa.com/about-turismo-de-lisboa/publications) publishes cultural listings. Event tickets are available for purchase from the Agência de Billetes para Espectáculos Públicos (ABEP); there is a kiosk in the southeast corner of Praça dos Restauradores. Ticket Line (+351 707 234 234; www.ticketline.pt) also offers tickets to many popular shows.