Secret Spots in Lisbon the Locals Wish You Didn't Know About

Lisbon is incredibly popular with tourists, and it can feel as if there is not much new to discover. A few locations, however, remain largely off the tourist radar. Here is a breakdown of some of the spots that are still secret.
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Once a city full of secret fado bars and traditional restaurants that only the locals knew about, Lisbon has now become one of the most-visited destinations in Europe. Social media make visiting even easier, providing tourists with lots of insider tips. So, now, many of the coolest spots in the city are out in the open. Read on to discover some of the remaining secret spots in the capital of Portugal.
Casa do Alentejo
Restaurant, Portuguese, European, Mediterranean
![Portugal, Lisbon, 10.07.2018. Casa do Alentejo in Lisbon on 10.07.2018. The House of Alentejo was built in 1932 by rich landowners from the Alentejo region. [automated translation]](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/2b75dnc.jpg)
Limão Chill-Out Terrace
Bar, Portuguese, European

Jardim do Torel
Botanical Garden, Park

Largo do Intendente
Architectural Landmark

Young and trendy Largo do Intendente is a bright square surrounded by beautifully renovated homes with azulejo-covered façades and hip local bars and restaurants, like the Casa Independente. Once one of the seedier parts of town, it is now a cool hangout spot for the city’s artistic, freelance and entrepreneurial circles.
Pastelaria Aloma
Cafe, Pastries

Open since 1943, the Pastelaria Aloma is a favourite pastry shop, where locals swear by the pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts), even suggesting that they may be the best in Lisbon. If you’re up for a walk, you can find Pastelaria Aloma just past the Jardim da Estrela, near Campo de Ourique.
Miradouro da Nossa Senhora do Monte
Natural Feature

Último Porto
Fishmonger, Restaurant, Portuguese, European, Seafood
A true secret in Lisbon is this seafood restaurant, found at the end of the pier in Alcântara. It’s spacious and bright, and it’s easy to get a table because many people simply don’t know about it – including some locals. This isn’t a place for artistic presentation: the food is simple, honest, fresh and budget-friendly.
Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Market, Portuguese, European, Tapas, Street Food

Linha d'Água
Cafe, Pastelaria, Portuguese, European

Whether you’re looking for somewhere peaceful to drink coffee, have lunch or just sit and read, Linha d’Água is a great cafe to know. Located behind El Corte Inglés, it sits in the middle of a park and beside a small artificial pool with a fountain. Sit on the lovely terrace with friends to soak in Lisbon’s sun, or head inside, where there are many more tables beside the long counter.
Ajuda
Architectural Landmark

Ajuda is a beautifully authentic neighbourhood near Lisbon, located northeast of Belém. Even some locals can’t resist playing tourist and walking past the grandiose and beautifully preserved 18th-century National Palace or strolling through the lovely botanical garden. Although it’s only a short 15- to 20-minute walk from the Jerónimos Monastery, tourists sometimes miss it while exploring Belém.
Cafe Esplanada do Miradouro do Monte Agudo
Cafe, Bar, Portuguese, European
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