On a scale from 1 being joyful to 10 being ecstatic how happy are you to be going to Lisbon this Summer? 12? We’re not surprised. 

It’s not a surprise either that apart from the most breathtaking panoramic views, charming neighbourhoods, historical landmarks and endless sunshine Lisbon is a haven of mouthwatering cuisine. From fresh seafood to local delicacies served to you in the most vibrant and at the same time cosy restaurants you can feel happiness overcoming you from within. 

Portuguese people are happy people — long days of sun and good food can do that for ya. It also means that they know how to party, so make sure you bring your dancing shoes with you!

BTW if you haven’t settled on accommodation yet, don’t miss out on our chance to stay in the heart of the city at Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto. The hostel has an inviting terrace with a bar, live music, and DJs and is within arms reach of the coolest cafes, bars or tascas. 

Shall we dig in?

Dear Breakfast

How to spot a Dear Breakfast cafe? Just look for the most stylish people in the coolest neighbourhood of Lisbon. At 4 locations this brunch spot has become a hit among tourists and locals alike. 

Apart from serving delicious-looking and tasting brunch every day from 9 AM to 5 PM Dear Breakfast has built a community by delivering high-quality service and an inviting ambience. 

Photo credits: @dearbreakfast/Instagram

They also have a shop in each location (and on their website) full of trendy minimalist hats, tote bags and ceramics all branded with their logo. 

There’s a Dear Breakfast just a 15-minute scenic walk from Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto in the theatre hub of Lisbon — Dear Breakfast Chiado. 

Hello, Kristof

Walls painted Barbie pink it’s hard to miss this place — Hello, Kristof is a cafe specialising in coffee that offers brunch with a magazine shop attached to it.

Photo credits: Hello, Kristof

Open every day from 8:45 AM — 3:45 PM you’ll find Hello, Kristof just a 15-minute downhill walk from Safestay Lisbon. The space is not too small, but don’t get discouraged if there’s a queue. It’s worth the wait!

Chapitô à Mesa

This restaurant is a uniquely hidden spot we’ve decided to share. Not only is it not famous amongst tourists, but it is actually hidden — behind an accessory store. 

Chapito á Mesa is one of the must-eat restaurants in Lisbon with delicious authentic local food and gorgeous views of the city — especially at sunset. 

Photo credits: Chapitô à Mesa

It also has another layer of mystery with a hidden bar in the back of the restaurant, down the stairs where there’s live music and dancing. 

We know it sounds unreal, so to bring you back to earth make sure to book a table in advance — as you can tell we can’t keep a secret so it may be hard to get in without a reservation!

Madam Bō

When we said stylish and hip we meant it — or rather Madam Bō did. Perfect for a tasty night out Madam Bō serves dumplings like no other. Imagine Asian-style cooking with Portuguese fresh high-quality ingredients — a match made in heaven!

Photo credits: Madam Bō

Located again only 15 minutes walk away from Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto, close to the Lisbon Botanical Garden the restaurant is open every day from 12–3 PM and 7:30–11 PM. 

In the first half of the day, they have lunch deals for affordable prices, while in the evening you can enjoy artistic cocktails on your night out!

Quiosque São Paulo

While we’re on the subject of top-quality food, you cannot leave Lisbon without tasting fresh seafood and a juicy sandwich or fresh seafood in a juicy sandwich from Quiosque São Paulo. 

Take a stroll down to the famous pink street where you’ll find a red kiosk drowning in a sea of people — Monday through Friday, until 11:30 PM.

 Photo credits: Duarte Drago/Time Out

Get yourself a jug of Portuguese house wine and try a bit of everything: fresh squid,  octopus salad, cheese from the Azores, olives, mushroom sandwich and most importantly Pastel de Massa Tenra e Capilé (Portugues hand pies).

Pink Street

As we move onto the nightlife in Lisbon we must first mention the infamous Pink Street. Apart from being painted pink, Pink Street is a popular stop among tourists and locals alike on their night out. Calle Rosa de Lisboa (in Portuguese) used to be a den for gamblers, it had brothels and bars where criminals used to frequent. 

Photo credits: @pedrosimoes7/Flickr

The street went over a major renovation when it was painted everywhere between the terraces, bars and clubs in pink. Now it is a den for the best clubs, bars, street performers and young people having the time of their lives. 

Machimbombo

Swaying into the night is gastro bar Machimbombo — serving fresh food, drinks and even fresher beats. The entry here is free, and memories are priceless. 

With a mix of cumbia, jazz and afro beats with tasty drinks on the side Machimbombo is a true favourite of the local community no matter the age. 

Photo credits: Machimbombo

Remember when we told you to bring dancing shoes? This is why. You won’t be sitting down in Machimbombo, even if you want to. 

Find the bar on your route to the Bica Funicular, just a short 13-minute walk from Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto and check their Google profile for opening hours!

As we round off this article, we cannot help but feel a bit jealous of you for getting to visit all our favourite spots. But that’s okay — sharing is caring! It’s clear that Lisbon is the perfect city for all the people who start saying “I need to get my steps in!’’ as soon as the sun shines. 

But seriously, make sure to bring sturdy shoes for all the walking and dancing you’ll be doing, and most importantly stay at Safestay Lisbon Bairro Alto to be within a 15-minute walk away from all the major spots.

P.S. If you sign up for our membership you’ll get a 15% discount on your booking. 

You can thank us later 🙂