Literary Lisbon: A tour of the places that inspired Portugal’s greatest writers

Lisbon, a city of light and poetry, has always been a source of inspiration for writers and poets — from Fernando Pessoa to Eça de Queirós, many authors have left their mark on the capital’s most famous neighborhoods.

If you’re visiting Lisbon or are a lover of Portuguese literature, you won’t want to miss this walking tour of the iconic places that shaped the lives and works of some of Portugal’s most acclaimed writers.

About the tour:

• Estimated duration: ~32 min
• Total distance: 2.2 km
• Difficulty: Easy (mostly flat)

1.     Fado Museum – Literary and Poetic Influences

• Location: Alfama
• Walk to the next point: 550 m (~7 min)

Start your journey at the Fado Museum, which explores the connection between fado and literature, highlighting writers like David Mourão-Ferreira and Manuel Alegre, whose lyrics and poems have left a lasting mark on this musical genre.
 

What you’ll find:

• Exhibitions on fado and its relationship with poetry
• Historical objects and audio recordings of classic performances
• Tributes to writers who influenced the genre.

2.     Casa dos Bicos – The Legacy of a Nobel Prize Winner

• Location: Alfama
• Walk to the next point: 1 km (~15 min) 

Next, head to Casa dos Bicos, home to the José Saramago Foundation. This space is entirely dedicated to the life and work of the Portuguese writer, who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1998. Its unique stone façade is one of the city’s historical landmarks, making it a must-see stop.

What you’ll find at the Foundation:

• Exhibitions on Saramago’s life and work
• A specialized library and bookstore
• The writer’s tomb in the garden.

3.     Bertrand Bookstore – The Oldest Bookstore in the World

• Location: Chiado
• Walk to the next point: 160 m (~2 min)

Continue down Rua Garrett towards Bertrand Bookstore, founded in 1732 and recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest bookstore still in operation. This historic spot was frequented by authors like Alexandre Herculano and José Saramago and remains a meeting point for literature lovers.

What you can do at the bookstore:

• Explore classic and contemporary books
• Attend literary events and book signings
• Admire the store’s historic architecture.

4.     Largo de São Carlos – The Birthplace of a Poet

• Location: Chiado
• Walk to the next point: 130 m (~2 min)

Just a few steps from Bertrand, Largo de São Carlos is where Fernando Pessoa was born in 1888. A commemorative plaque marks this historic site, making it a must-visit for fans of the iconic poet.

Interesting facts:

• Pessoa was born here in 1888
• The square is also home to the National Theatre of São Carlos
• The area’s historic atmosphere continues to inspire artists to this day.

5.     Café A Brasileira – The Intellectuals' Meeting Place

• Location: Chiado
• Walk to the next point: 160 m (~2 min)

After visiting Largo de São Carlos, head to Café A Brasileira, one of Lisbon’s most iconic spots, where writers and artists gathered in the early 20th century. Its famous outdoor seating area features the iconic statue of Fernando Pessoa, a popular spot for visitors looking to snap a memorable photo.

Tips for your visit:

• Enjoy a coffee while soaking up the historic ambiance
• Take a photo next to the Fernando Pessoa statue
• Admire the well-preserved interior decor that has stood the test of time.

6.     Luís de Camões Square – The Poet Who Immortalized a Nation

• Location: Chiado
• Walk to the next point: 190 m (~3 min)

Head to Luís de Camões Square, where you’ll find a bronze statue of the author of Os Lusíadas, a masterpiece that celebrates Portugal’s Age of Exploration. Inaugurated in 1867, this grand monument honors Camões' lasting impact on Portuguese literature and cultural identity.

What to see and do:

• Admire the impressive central statue of Camões
• Reflect on Camões' role in shaping Portugal’s cultural and literary heritage.

7.     Largo Barão de Quintela — Eça de Queirós and the Lisbon of Os Maias

• Location: Chiado

End your walk at Largo Barão de Quintela, where you’ll find a bronze replica of the statue of Eça de Queirós, sculpted by Teixeira Lopes. The original marble version is currently housed in the City Museum. Eça, one of Portugal’s greatest novelists, immortalized Lisbon in his works, especially Os Maias, which paints a vivid portrait of 19th-century Lisbon society.

What to see and do:

• Admire the bronze replica of Eça de Queirós’ statue by Teixeira Lopes
• Take in the architecture of the historic buildings surrounding the square, many showcasing the charm of old Lisbon.

This walking tour is a journey through time and Portuguese literature, taking you to iconic spots that once inspired some of the country’s greatest writers.

When you finish, take a well-deserved break on one of Lisbon’s charming garden benches and lose yourself in your favorite book, surrounded by the city’s literary spirit.

Here, the city offers a unique experience where past and present meet, and literature comes to life around every corner — if you’re visiting Lisbon, don’t miss our suggestions and discover the wonders of one of the world’s most versatile cities.