If you’re trying to pick the destination for your next trip to Europe, Lisbon is worth considering for the views alone. Nestled among seven hills, Portugal’s sun-drenched coastal capital is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets dotted with colorful pastel houses and white-domed cathedrals. Of course, the best place to soak up the stunning vistas is with your favorite tipple at one of Lisbon’s many bars.
But with so much choice, deciding where to go can be tricky. To help, we’ve scoured the city to find the most exclusive watering holes. From the bustling district of Chiado to the nightlife mecca that is Bairro Alto, these are the best bars in Lisbon.
[See more: The 5 Best Restaurants in Lisbon]
Four Seasons Hotel Ritz
The moodily lit interior is lined with shelves of books / ©Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
It seems fitting to kick off our list of the best bars in Lisbon with Four Seasons Hotel Ritz. Situated at the heart of the city across from the idyllic Parque Eduardo VII, the historic property has recently undergone extensive renovations adding a brand-new terrace to its glamorous bar.
The moodily lit interior is lined with shelves of books and dotted with plush red velvet chairs – a cozy setting to while away the evening. Late Portuguese artist, Pedro Leitao, gifted the hotel his piano which is tucked away in the corner of the room, and you can expect to be treated to live music most nights of the week.
As for the drinks list, Sandra Pimenta has created an impressive array of signature cocktails inspired by the city. Our favorite is the deliciously refreshing 19 Spritz, made with traditional Portuguese flower liquor dating back to the 19th century and garnished with a slice of grapefruit.
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The Ivens
The gleaming brass and marble bar surrounded by floral-print clad bar stools / ©Francisco Nogueira
Next, we head to The Ivens – a brand-new hotel that opened earlier this year in Lisbon’s bustling Chiado district. Occupying a beautiful pastel pink 19th-century building, the property’s interiors effortlessly mix bold colorful patterns and textures with bespoke Art deco furnishings.
The Gastro Bar is no exception. Red velvet stairs lead into an intimate space with a chequered marble floor and tropical plants springing from every corner. The star of the show, however, is the gleaming brass and marble bar surrounded by floral-print clad bar stools.
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As well as an extensive drinks list, you can enjoy a selection of traditional Portuguese light bites including cold meats, cheeses, salads and fresh pastas. And if you’re hoping for a lively evening, stick around for the DJ.
Silk Club
After midnight the venue turns into one of Lisbon’s hottest clubs / ©Silk Club
Also in the Chiado district is the super-exclusive Silk Club. Come for the panoramic views of the city, stay for the gourmet Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine, and excellent cocktails. The most extravagant (and delicious) dish on the menu is Mimasu – delicate slices of Wasabi-marinated Bluefin tuna, served with a layer of three caviars and drizzled with an indulgent black truffle sauce.
As you might have guessed from the name, after midnight the venue turns into one of Lisbon’s hottest clubs. Be sure to make a reservation and dress up – or risk being turned away at the door.
Lumi
Plenty of local, seasonal ingredients are used to create Mediterranean-inspired dishes / ©The Lumieres Hotel
In the heart of Bairro Alto – Lisbon’s picturesque party district – you’ll find The Lumiares hotel. Located within a stunning 18th-century palace that once belonged to Count Lumiare, the property is seriously exclusive.
Up on the fifth floor is the hotel’s stylish bar, Lumi. Glass paneling reveals gorgeous vistas of the River Tagus and the city’s terracotta rooftops. The intimate terrace is dotted with wicker chairs, cushions and simple marble tables letting the spectacular view speak for itself.
Perhaps most impressive about this ultra-chic hideaway is the dining menu. Portuguese head chef, Joa Silva, uses plenty of local, seasonal ingredients to create Mediterranean-inspired dishes that pack a punch. Highlights include the succulent roasted octopus with sweet potato and padrón peppers, and the morish oxtail croquettes served with a creamy fava bean pesto.
V Rooftop
Like much of Lisbon’s nightlife V Rooftop is trendy and laid-back / ©Vintage Hotel
Our list of the best bars in Lisbon would not be complete without mentioning V Rooftop. If you’re looking for killer views of the city this is your place. Situated at the top of the five-star Vintage hotel, it’s the perfect setting to watch the sun set over the historic São Jorge castle and old town.
Like much of Lisbon’s nightlife V Rooftop is trendy and laid-back: think extra-snug sofas, lots of greenery and a striking wood-paneled bar.
When it comes to drinks, you’re in safe hands. Talented Portuguese mixologist Luís Levy has created an impressive cocktail menu with a focus on local spirits. We recommend the Vini Negroni –a citrusy delight that mixes infused gin with Portuguese Vermouth, Madeira wine, sugar cane honey and orange zest.
The bar snacks are also well worth trying. Order the seared spicy tuna with ginger and lime, or, if you want to sample the local fare opt for the addictive Pica-Pau (traditional Portuguese beef strips in a pickle sauce).
Café Principe Real
The stylish restaurant decorated with pretty circles of hanging lights, sleek black marble tables / ©Memmo Principe Real
Last but by no means least on our roundup of the best bars in Lisbon is the Café Principe Real, located on the second floor of the charming Memmo Principe Real hotel.
The elegant outdoor terrace boasts beautiful views of the city, and when it gets cooler in the evening head inside to the stylish restaurant decorated with pretty circles of hanging lights, sleek black marble tables and green velvet sofas.
Here, you can enjoy Portuguese fare with a modern twist. Ideal for sharing, the heavenly light bites include fresh oysters, mini croquettes and buttery burrata served with cured ham and grilled focaccia.
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