What to do at night in Lisbon? Top 10 places

Don’t know what to do at night in Lisbon? Whether you’re a party animal or a quiet night owl, a lover of bars, pubs, concerts and clubs of all kinds, what better way to feel the atmosphere of a neighborhood where it’s good to go out than by going out at night in Lisbon

Here is my selection of the best places to spend a good evening.

Whether your interests lie in a classic bar crawl, or are more oriented towards clubbing, through a night at the show, a total immersion in the local culture, or simply a relaxing evening by the water or on top of a gazebo, the Portuguese capital will not disappoint you.

Note that as in other southern European countries, the evenings start late in Lisbon.

Unless you are dining in tourist areas, many restaurants do not open until 7 pm, and do not start filling up until an hour or two later.

Bars are usually full until midnight, and it’s not worth trying to get into a club before 2am.

Here are my top 6 places to go out at night in Lisbon. Follow the guide!

Where to go out at night in Lisbon? Have a drink on a rooftop in Lisbon

Don’t know where to go out at night in Lisbon? Whether you head to a panoramic bar located on Lisbon’s rooftops, like the Silk Club or the Sky Bar, or opt for a drink in one of the open-air cafés set up near one of the city’s countless viewpoints, you’re guaranteed a spectacular panorama.

Don’t forget to bring a light sweater or jacket. Even in the middle of summer, and despite the hot days, it can get a little chilly in Lisbon after dark.

What to do at night in Lisbon: Take in the sights

Lisbon is not called “the city of seven hills” without reason: the moment you step away from the river, your calves will start working hard, no matter which direction you choose.

The counterpart to this hard work is that from almost anywhere in the city center, you can easily enjoy a magnificent night view of the city.

Many notable sites, including the famous St. George’s Castle, are illuminated after dark, giving you the opportunity to take some fabulous shots.

Experience a fado show at night in Lisbon

The slow, soulful melody of Lisbon’s evening fado usually emanates from a slew of tiny bars throughout the city.

It’s worth making an evening of it in your diary to discover this centuries-old musical style.

If you can avoid the “fado and dinner” packages that are advertised all over Bairro Alto and Alfama, which are real “tourist traps”, you will be able to enjoy lower prices, a better quality meal, and above all a more authentic experience.

There are dozens of establishments to choose from, some of them well hidden behind the city walls – trust your ears!

You can always head to the O Povo, which on weekdays offers free shows, starting at 8 p.m., featuring promising artists.

It’s also worth visiting the Fado Museum in Alfama beforehand to learn more about the history of this unique tradition.

Enjoy a concert

Although Lisbon does not attract as many big names in music as other cities like Madrid or London, there is no shortage of opportunities for visitors.

Like anywhere else, don’t hesitate to book your seat well in advance if you’re coveting a concert by a popular artist.

With the exception of the MEO Arena, most venues are medium-sized, so tickets tend to sell out quickly.

Lisbon’s grand opera house, the TheatroNacional de São Carlos, is located in the Chiado district, in the heart of the city.

It is a must-see for any classical music lover. Wagner, Mozart, Stravinsky and many other composers are regularly featured in this small but beautiful theater, built in 1793.

Although it is possible to book online, you can also get tickets for all but the most popular evening shows in Lisbon by going to the box office a few days in advance.

Your hotel reception can also sometimes make the reservation, if necessary.

Access to clubs and nightclubs in Lisbon

In the 1990s, Lisbon was one of Europe’s hottest cities for clubbing.

Although it has been overtaken in recent years, the city still offers night owls many festive options, suitable for all tastes.

Don’t expect to be back before dawn, whether you’re rocking out at the Music Box, in the lively Cais do Sodré neighborhood, at Dock’s Club, near the bridge in Alcãntara, or at a more glamorous and upscale venue – with prices to match – like Lux, on the waterfront.

Whether you’re looking for the best international DJs, kitschy 80s pop or any other musical style, Lisbon’s nightclubs will satisfy you.

The most exclusive venues have strict dress codes and entry policies, and some require advance reservations.

No matter which establishment you plan to visit, dress up, don’t expect to get in before midnight, and above all, be prepared to party until the sun comes up!

Watch a soccer game

In Lisbon, soccer is a true obsession, and with Portugal winning the European Championship for the first time in 2016, and the home team Benfica winning a fourth consecutive Portuguese championship title the following year, the passion for the sport is at an all-time high!

The grand Estadio da Luz (Stadium of Light) stadium, home of the Benfica team, is located in the north of the city, while their historical rival, Sporting Clube de Portugal, has an equally impressive Estadio José Alvalade stadium just a few miles away.

Unless a local derby is taking place during your stay, you should have no trouble getting tickets to a home game featuring either team if you plan to visit the city during the long sports season.

Treat yourself to a scarf or other way to show your support for your favorite team, head to the stadium early to soak up the atmosphere, and get ready for an unforgettable evening, regardless of the game’s outcome!

I hope this list of my favorite places will give you some ideas for going out if you don’t know what to do at night in Lisbon.

If you have any other suggestions for bars, restaurants etc. to have a good time, please let me know in the comments.