Lisbon
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Culture
Museu Calouste Gulbenkian
The Museu Calouste Gulbenkian is Lisbon’s top museum. Set in a landscaped arts complex, it houses a fine collection of art, from the ancient Egyptians to 20th-century classics, amassed by an Armenian oil magnate.
Museu do Oriente
The Museu do Oriente traces Portugal’s historic links with the Orient through fascinating works of art, puppetry and shrines. Until 13 January, the Tea Exhibition records how the drink helped forge links between east and west.
Museu de Artes Decorativas
The Museu de Artes Decorativas stands opposite one of the best viewpoints in Lisbon, but has some fine sights itself. Its priceless collection of decorative arts, including furniture, porcelain and textiles, are displayed in a 17th-century palace.
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Eat
Frango da Guia
Nestled up to the outer walls of the impressive bullring, the bustling Frango da Guia specialises in grilled chicken, with or without piri-piri sauce.
Doca Peixe
Tucked under the 25 de Abril bridge, Doca Peixe faces the flash boats of Lisbon docks. It’s a suitably classy place, serving fish, seafood curries and lobster tagliatelle.
A Baiuca
A Baiuca is a tiny restaurant with live fado to accompany your grilled fish, quite often sung by the waiter. With only a handful of tables, you’ll need to book in advance.
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Sleep
Dom Carlos Parque
Just south of the park, Dom Carlos Parque (rooms from €56) is a reliable modern three-star with good-sized rooms and garage parking.
Jerónimos 8
A stone’s throw from Belém’s Jerónimos Monastery, the historic Jerónimos 8 (rooms from €80) hotel has been given a boutique makeover.
Solar do Castelo
Abutting the walls of Lisbon’s castle, the chic Solar do Castelo (rooms from €149) sits on the site of the former palace kitchens, and has a lovely inner courtyard.
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Shop
Campo Pequeno
The beautiful 19th-century Campo Pequeno bullring neatly hides a substantial shopping centre beneath its curvaceous brick exterior. There’s a host of interesting shops and cafés.
LX Factory
LX Factory. This former industrial estate is now a mini-district of studios, boutiques and workshops, showcasing Lisbon’s creative talents. On a Sunday morning there’s a flea market too.
A Arte da Terra
Occupying a former stables, the appealing A Arte da Terra sells souvenirs, crafts and jewellery.
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Later
Op Art
A little glass kiosk café-bar right on the waterfront, Op Art comes into its own after dark, with hip sounds and a chilled vibe until the small hours.
Lux
A giant riverside warehouse conversion, Lux has become one of the hottest clubs in Europe, attracting A-list celebrities and a roster of excellent live bands.
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