Portugal is a crazy cultural blend with countless travel routes. To start with – and to feel the vibe of the country – visit Lisbon. You might think the capital is just an antique cultural gem, but let me assure you, it has much more to share.
Don’t know what to do at night and don’t want to waste your time sleeping? Explore some ideas below with perfect options for your bright Lisbon nightlife to make you dance all night long.
Lisbon never sleeps. The local society is an insane mix of nationalities and cultures. It’s no big surprise that nightlife is strongly emphasized by countless bars, discos, and Fado clubs. Most bars in nightlife districts in Lisbon are open until 2 a.m., and clubs don’t close until 6 a.m. or later, so don’t hesitate to combine your cultural program with fun.
The most advertised option for a night out in Portugal is the Fado performance. This cultural event deserves attention, but it may seem too classic and boring.
Instead, check out our list of clubs and nightlife districts that await you at night:
- Santa Apolonia. The location is strategic, so if you stay in some of the city’s central hotels, don’t miss your chance to see how locals hang out.
- Alcantara. The area offers a lively atmosphere for day exploration, smoothly flowing into its nightlife scene.
- Bairro Alto. The clubs of Bairro Alto perfectly fit in the Bohemian ambience of the district.
- Docas. The place is one of the busiest nightlife areas, with trendy Lisbon nightclubs, bars, restaurants, and deep house music.
- The Pink Street. All Amsterdam fans shouldn’t miss it. The same vibe, but with an authentic accent, is awaiting you.
Let’s have a closer look at the memorable late-night spots in Lisbon below.
Santa Apolonia
What can be better for an unbridled joy than a row of the best bars and clubs in Lisbon, located directly opposite the Santa Apolonia train station in the historic center? The venues are reminiscent of the Santo Amaro docks. The clubbing area stands in stark contrast to the old part of the city, which lies directly below the Alfama district.
The main highlight is Ferroviário (Rua de Santa Apolónia 59, Lisboa). The place was once an after-work railway club, but now it is a social club that hosts live concerts and DJs, as well as cultural events and exhibitions till 03:00.
The most popular club, LuxFrágil, is at Av. Infante D. Henrique a Sta Apolónia Cais da Pedra, Armazém A. But come beforehand as there is always a queue outside. Usual entrance fee is 12 euros, but it may depend on your arrival time/event.
Alcantara
The district is a must-visit spot for travellers who want to see panoramic views over the Tagus River. In the evening, don’t even dream of hiding in your hotel room! Be sure to head up to the LX rooftop cafe, which offers beautiful views of the 25th April Bridge with French accordionist playing in the evenings.
At night, it attracts with LX Factory, a factory complex converted into a shopping center. You can feel the hipster spirit in everything here.
Insider tip: Speaking of Tagus River, if you want to add a touch of romance to your trip, how about a night boat ride? You can enjoy the view of the main Lisbon tourist attractions, champagne and good company against the backdrop of illuminated monuments.
Special highlight: Head to LX Rooftop –one of the most popular rooftop bars in Lisbon for sunset viewing. Then, take a taxi and move to Purex, a mecca for local clubbers.
Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is Lisbon’s most famous party district and one of the must-visit locations at night time. The area is a series of narrow streets radiating from Rua do Loreto with countless bars, restaurants, and clubs with concerts, DJ sets, and fun flowing over the edge.
Create your own bright memories here by drinking a glass of wine in one of the restaurants or get a cocktail right on the street before heading directly on the dance floor. Ginjinha, a local liqueur, is definitely the taste of Portugal.
Remember: While attending Bairro Alto nightlife events, you may simply go with the flow, join the crowd on the street, and experience bar hopping in a multinational surrounding.
Special highlight: Plateau, the nightclub known for its great music and golden hits from the 80s and 90s, with an 8 euro entrance fee with a drink included.
Docas (Santo Amaro Docks)
A restaurant or club in former warehouse hangars abandoned in the 80s is something authentically Portuguese that you can’t miss! Docas is a lively location close to the center of Lisbon. There are several nightclubs on the long and quite romantic pier. Basically, it’s a renovated port area with amenities and many restaurants to suit all tastes and views of the Corcovado and the bridge. Some clubs have retained the industrial warehouse style or even the name.
Special highlight: Locals prefer Hawaii Club with free entrance, but there are some smaller and cozier options around. Besides, a security check is super strict here.
The ‘Pink Street‘
Rua Cor-de-Rosa(Cais do Sodré area), as locals call it, is also known for its rowdy nights. It used to be a “red light” street, but now the focus has shifted to bars and nightclubs. All that remains of the “red” is a strip club, welcoming guests still looking for a special holiday.
Special highlight: Music Box on Rua Nova do Carvalho, 24, is on top of Lisbon dance clubs, where musicians of very different styles perform and a completely diverse crowd hangs out. Entrance fee is 12 euros with 2 beers included.
Takeaways
The places above are just a few examples for your Lisbon’s night out. The city has a variety of theme bars, sports bars, snack bars and other formats. The nightlife can be very intense, just look for places to your taste.
A smart idea for the start of your night out adventure is to visit Lisbon rooftops or terraces, many of which are open during the day. But you can enjoy the sunset and start the night at one of Lisbon cocktail bars. For example, Sky Bar by Seen on the ninth floor of the Tivoli Hotel on Avenida da Liberdade is listed as one of the best terraces in Europe. Another option is located on the seventh floor of the Altis Avenida Hotel, Rossio Gastrobar.
Create your awesome stay in Lisbon with sightseeing and visiting key attractions and then hang out in one of the fancy nightclubs. You’ll get a complete impression of the city in all its glory and variety.
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Read more about Lisbon here in Dispatches’ archives.
Galyna Rogovska is a travel expert with extensive experience in content creation. She is an enthusiastic globetrotter who has visited 25-plus countries, and an explorer with a passion for adventure.
