Insider tips Lisbon: A city to fall in love with

From Barrio Alto to the beach, Lisbon is one of the coolest gay destinations in Europe. Our host Didi shares his tips on where to go for drinks, brunch, where to lay in the sun, and everything else to feel like a gay local, the Lisbon way. Oh, and Madonna's just moved there, so do you need another reason to visit?!

What makes Lisbon a favorite gay destination?

During the last few years, Lisbon has become more and more gay-friendly. Lots of new bars, new clubs and new saunas are opening and an amazing gay beach is just 20 minute drive from the city center. With amazing weather from March to October, you cannot fail to fall in love with the city!

How gay-friendly is Lisbon? What’s gay life like there? 

Bairro Alto and Príncipe Real are the neighborhoods crawling with gay life in Lisbon: everyone hangs outside with a drink, chatting to friends, meeting new people, especially in Bairro Alto. It's a charming old neighbourhood, full of life and history. 

© Flickr/frank_w_aus_

What’s your favorite gay place to grab a bite for lunch or dinner?

One of my favourites for lunch is Noobai, with an amazing view of the river, a nice crowd and excellent cocktails. For dinner, Bairro do Avillez is your best choice: you can taste some of the local cuisine by the famous chef José Avillez in a beautiful environment.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Nicolau is the best spot for brunch: it's busy, but worth the wait. The Mill and Tease also serve a very nice brunch, but make sure you check the opening hours. 

Best gay place and day for a cheap beer or happy hour?

Topo and Park offer great views of the city, where you can enjoy beer and cocktails.

We’re ready to party! What are the best gay clubs?

Lisbon offers a lot for clubbing. Lux is the best club in town; it's a mixed crowd but still very gay. Trumps and Construction are the best gay clubs in town, the first for pop and techno, the latter for disco music.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

The best place to make friends is Bairro Alto at night; from 23:00pm on you can find lots of people in the streets having drinks and chatting!

Any beaches, parks or best other places to chill out? 

My favourite in Lisbon is Praia 19, the so-called “gay beach”. It has a natural dune complex, a few beach bars nearby and an amazing view of Lisbon and the Sintra mountains when the sky's clear. Get an Uber there or drive: public transportation is available but can be time-consuming.

Where can we get the best view of Lisbon? 

From Miradouro São Pedro de Alcântara in Bairro Alto you have an amazing view of the city. If you feel like going for a long walk, then go to Castelo de São Jorge on the other side of the city and enjoy the beautiful views of river Tejo.

We only have 24 hours in Lisbon. What can’t we miss?

Actually, tons of great things: the custard tarts (pastéis de nata) at Manteigaria, a walk through Chiado in the afternoon, an old tramway ride to the castle up the hill, a walk through the narrow streets of Alfama listening to Fado, and why not finish it off by taking a sunset drink in the park?!

● Thanks Didi! Like the sound of Lisbon? Check out more tips from our other hosts in Portugal's cool capital.

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