What to do, where to eat and where to stay in Bairro Alto and Chiado

When we look up a city on search engines, we inevitably find ourselves asking what to do, where to eat and where to stay. We search for monuments, gardens, restaurants, hotels and all that we can fit into the itinerary.

Lisbon is a favourite for tourists, and the reason is simple: plenty of sunshine, great food and lots to explore. It’s a city that never wears out and has a story lurking around every corner.

In this article, we've prepared some tips to help all Bairro Alto and Chiado visitors not miss a thing!

Bairro Alto and Chiado are very different places, but when combined they form the perfect symbiosis between the bohemian and the classic. On the upper side, there’s Bairro Alto. A neighbourhood of narrow streets and many secrets, where the night summons crowds of tourists and beyond. On every street we stumble upon a bar, a restaurant or an alternative store, frequented both by those who consider Bairro Alto home and curious wanderers from all over the world who come in search of something different. On the lower end, we have Chiado. An elegant, cosmopolitan area where one can contemplate the hustle and bustle of tourists and Lisbonners, up and down the shopping streets, or the terraces always packed and animated by artists.

In a city where the architecture of several eras coexists with urban art, the history of Lisbon is told through historical buildings and modern artwork a little bit everywhere. If you love art galleries, you must visit Zé dos Bois, Graça Brandão or Salgadeiras. Don't miss the chance also to discover the National Museum of Contemporary Art of Chiado, a space that promotes Portuguese artistic expression from the 1850’s until today.

For the performing arts lovers, check the most iconic theatres in the city.

If you want to know Lisbon as a true alfacinha (Lisbonner), take a look at Baixa’s traditional grocery stores or surprise yourself with the dynamics of the Lisbon markets.

The Portuguese gastronomy is rich, and each region has its own typical dishes. The Lisbon region is no exception, and you’ll find many specialties in the capital that are worth trying.

In Bairro Alto, you have restaurants for all tastes, from the historical and traditional to the trendy, Michelin star ones. For drinks, we suggest 18.68, Park and O Bom o Mau e o Vilão.  

 

Right in the heart of the city, the Praça Luís de Camões, you’ll find Bairro Alto Hotel.  A hotel filled with charm and sophistication, which harmoniously combines the classic and the contemporary. This hotel, located between Bairro Alto and Chiado, is the perfect starting point to explore the city. If you’re looking for something luxurious, central and unique, the Bairro Alto Hotel – a member of The Leading Hotels of the World – is the ideal option.

Visit the Bairro Alto Hotel website and book your stay.

Praça Luís de Camões, 2

While Bairro Alto is famous for its nightlife, with bars and traditional restaurants, Chiado is known for its architecture and culture, with museums, theatres and international fashion stores. Both neighbourhoods are a must see for those who want to know the authentic Lisbon. Despite the differences, Bairro Alto and Chiado complement each other and offer a unique experience to all its visitors.