If you’ve already started planning your trip to Lisbon, you may know about some of its can’t-miss spots. Praça do Comércio, Castelo de São Jorge, Bairro Alto, and Torre de Belém are some of the most common destinations of Lisbon touring guides.

We think that these places are definitely worth the visit. But there are also some secret places in Lisbon that only locals know, and we need to share with you. So get ready to find out about these hidden gems of the Portuguese capital!

1. Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte

Miradouro is the Portuguese word for “viewpoint.” Sometimes called the City of Seven Hills, Lisbon is full of amazing spots with scenic views.

The Miradouro Portas do Sol and São Pedro de Alcântra are the locales that tourists visit the most. But, if you want to enjoy the view without any crowds, you must head to the Miradouro Nossa Senhora do Monte. This viewpoint is located at the highest peak of Lisbon.

2. Casa do Alentejo

Alentejo is a geographical, historical, and cultural region of South-central and Southern Portugal. However, Casa do Alentejo is also a restaurant located inside a palace from the 17th century in the middle of Lisbon.

Casa ALentejo - place to see in Lisbon
📸 Visit Lisbon

The ground floor is inspired by Arabic houses with an internal patio. For a second, you’ll feel like you woke up in a Moroccan Riad. Take the stairs and discover a second level that will take you straight to the French palaces of the 18th century. It’s a whole new world in the same building.

The best part of this place? You can visit without spending a penny.

3. Mercado de Campo de Ourique

Trying local food is one of the best things to do when you are abroad. When in Lisbon, forget about the Timeout Market and go straight to Mercado Campo de Ourique.

This local market is much cozier and visited mostly by locals. Apart from trying delicious Portuguese specialities, you can shop for fish, meat, and fresh fruits & vegetables. 

4. Largo do Intendente

What was once a place tourists avoided is now a trendy spot in Lisbon. Largo do Intendente is a beautiful square surrounded by building covered with the most beautiful Portuguese tiles. 

Among these buildings, you’ll find the Casa Independente, a cultural center where artists, musicians and locals get together. If you feel like partying in Lisbon, this a place to keep in mind.

5. Calouste Gulbenkian 

Despite having masterpieces from Andy Warhol to Claude Monet, the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is not often included on the top list of tourists. This museum gathers art sourced to everything from ancient Egypt to contemporary Portuguese artists.

Gulbenkian Gardens is a place to see in Lisbon
📸 Archdaily

Apart from visiting the museum, you should save a couple of hours to enjoy a sunny afternoon in its garden. The chilled atmosphere will make you feel like you’re outside of Lisbon.

6. Ler Devagar Bookshop

Ler Devagar is a secret place you need to check out in Lisbon. This bookstore is in the heart of LX Factory – another place you should add to your list.

Ler Devagar translates to “read slowly,” so get ready to enter a world where time runs at a different pace. An interesting fact: This bookstore is located in a former printing space. You can still see some of the curious old machines from way back when. It’s no wonder that Ler Devagar is often featured in lists of most beautiful bookshops in the world.

7. Casa da Índia

Bairro Alto is definitely one of the places in Lisbon that you need to see. But, after you enjoy a few Imperiais (local name for a pint), you’ll need to eat something.  

Casa da Índia is not an Indian restaurant. Actually, it’s a traditional Portuguese place opened until late hours. 

Once you get there, you’ll realize that it’s all about the food. The place is loud, busy, and you might have to wait to be seated. But don’t give up! Every bite will be worth the wait.

8. Vhils Street Art

Are you a street art fan? You’ll lose your mind in Lisbon. The city is full of incredible graffiti and urban installations. 

Places in Lisbon: Vhils

Amidst it all, you’ll discover the world of Vhils. Instead of sprays, the Portuguese artist uses a pneumatic drill. “To destroy is to create” – this is his guideline. Curious? Check the picture below!

In this link you can find a map of Vhils’ street art in Lisbon.

Ready to see these secret places in Lisbon?