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An Independent Guide to Lisbon

The palaces of Sintra, the famous tram line and spectacular views throughout, Lisbon is a cultural hub with a thriving arts and creative scene. Want to explore the coastal capital like a local? Lucky for you, half of the Trouva Team are based in Lisbon so who better to ask for recommendations than our very own bunch of Lisbon-loving locals.

Where to Shop in Lisbon

From traditional craftsmanship to new and emerging fashion brands, Lisbon’s independent boutiques are just as exciting as the city itself. Here are our top picks.

PURA CAL
@puracal
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Pura Cal is an interior design concept store founded by two best friends. From traditional Portuguese ceramics to trending homewares from European brands, leave some space in your suitcase if you’re visiting this local favourite.
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TRENDY PILLOWS
@trendy_pillows
Next to their namesake own-brand of decorative cushions, Trendy Pillows offers an eclectic collection of rugs, home accessories, and lamps from popular brands such as HKliving and Bloomingville.
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D'OLIVAL
@dolival.casa
This independent boutique was born out of the owner’s love of locally-produced olive oil, and has since expanded to offering traditional handcrafted homewares and artisanal products. It doesn’t get much more authentic than this.
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CASANOVA STORE
@casa_nova_store
Founded by interior designer Lígia Casanova, this boutique is a space for him to share his favourite local brands, emerging designers and cult objects with his customers. A beautiful shop that’s always worth a visit.
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New from our Portuguese Boutiques

Where to Stay in Lisbon

Looking for the best places to sleep in Lisbon? Our very own local experts have shared the hotels they would recommend to friends and family visiting the city.

MEMMO ALFAMA
@memmoalfama
Nestled in one of Lisbon’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, a stay at Memmo Alfama promises a truly authentic experience of the city. The interior inspired by Portuguese homes, great views and unbeatable location will make for an ideal base for your city break.

BLUE LIBERDADE HOTEL
@blueliberdadehotel
As you may have gathered from its name, pretty much everything at this hotel is drenched in vibrant blue - from the exterior to the hallway’s wallpaper and interior details in the rooms. A tranquil spot with great views of the city’s signature streets.

DEAR LISBON
@dearlisbon
The family behind this local brand of small curated hotels is passionate about their city and aims to share their love with each of their guests. Taking a morning dip in their picturesque rustic pool will make for the best start to your day of exploring.

Where to Eat in Lisbon

Lisbon’s dining scene offers any cuisine, at any budget, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. To make navigating the wide variety a bit easier, we picked a few of the most exciting places to eat at right now.

BOAVISTA SOCIAL CLUB
@boavista.socialclub
Boavista Social Club is a restaurant that believes the records played are a big part of your dining experience. Expect great tunes, a weekly changing menu of delicious, seasonal food and a wide selection of natural wines with an unforgettable atmosphere.

PONTO FINAL RESTAURANTE ALMADA
@pontofinalrest
For traditional Portuguese food with incredible sea views, head to Ponto Final Restaurante Almada during your trip. From the yellow gingham tablecloths to spectacular sunsets, it’s no surprise this is one of the most photographed dining spots in the city.

TASCA BALDRACCA
@tascabaldracca
This local favourite spot recreates the atmosphere of an old Portuguese tavern and serves up traditional Portuguese tascas with a contemporary twist. Pick from grilled shrimp skewers, their version of a Scotch egg and many more delicious plates.

RESTAURANTE ROCCO
@rocco.pt
The new hotspot where Lisbon’s locals come to eat, drink and mingle. The interior alone makes it with a visit (we heard it has the most beautiful bathroom in Lisbon) but the tasty food also lives up to the aesthetic.

Where to Drink in Lisbon

From the best craft beer to fresh natural wines and unique cocktails, discover the bars on Team Trouva’s list of recommendations.

TOCA DA RAPOSA
@tocaraposa.cocktail
This seasonal cocktail bar by artist Constanca Cordeiro focusses on sustainability by using foraged and locally-made ingredients to mix their delicious drinks. Each cocktail is named after an animal, making for a great conversation starter.

LADIDADI
@ladidadi.wines
Owner Florian Tonello has spent more than 15 years travelling on the hunt for the best natural wines in the world. At LADIDADI Lisbon he shares his discoveries by serving the best of the best artisan wines from local winemakers passionate about organic and biodynamic farming.

MUSA
@cervejamusa
Craft beer more your thing? Musa is the local’s cerveja of choice, served at the brewery’s taprooms where you can also enjoy live music, tasty bar snacks and always a great atmosphere, especially on a warm summer evening.

What to See in Lisbon

Explore Lisbon’s culture firsthand with our curated list of museums, nature hangouts and even workshops to book for your time in the city.

MUSEU DO AZULEJO
@museunazulejo
Love the Azulejo, the Portuguese patterned tiles you’ll see all across the city? Then this is a must-see museum for you, showcasing a unique collection of these intricate and historic tileworks.

CAULINO CERAMICS
@caulinoceramics
Lisbon is famous for its ceramics, so what could be better than making your own during your trip? This studio offers a wide range of different ceramic making courses, from two hour sessions to week-long workshops.

PARQUE FLORESTAL MONSANTO
#parqueflorestalmonsanto
Whether you head to Lisbon’s forest to have a picnic, go for a bike ride or spot some wild mushrooms, this is a great place to take a breather and reflect on your exciting time in this vibrant city.


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