The Best Cocktail Bars in Lisbon
These are they city’s most exclusive watering holes.
©Memmo Principe Real
If you’re trying to pick the destination for your next trip to Europe, Lisbon is worth considering for the views alone. Nestled among seven hills, Portugal’s sun-drenched coastal capital is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets dotted with colorful pastel houses and white-domed cathedrals. Of course, the best place to soak up the stunning vistas is with your favorite tipple at one of Lisbon’s many bars.
But with so much choice, deciding where to go can be tricky. To help, we’ve scoured the city to find the most exclusive watering holes. From the bustling district of Chiado to the nightlife mecca that is Bairro Alto, these are the best bars in Lisbon.
The moodily lit interior is lined with shelves of books / ©Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
It seems fitting to kick off our list of the best bars in Lisbon with Four Seasons Hotel Ritz. Situated at the heart of the city across from the idyllic Parque Eduardo VII, the historic property has recently undergone extensive renovations adding a brand-new terrace to its glamorous bar.
The moodily lit interior is lined with shelves of books and dotted with plush red velvet chairs – a cozy setting to while away the evening. Late Portuguese artist, Pedro Leitao, gifted the hotel his piano which is tucked away in the corner of the room, and you can expect to be treated to live music most nights of the week.
As for the drinks list, Sandra Pimenta has created an impressive array of signature cocktails inspired by the city. Our favorite is the deliciously refreshing 19 Spritz, made with traditional Portuguese flower liquor dating back to the 19th century and garnished with a slice of grapefruit.
The Gatstro Bar at The Ivens Lisbon
The gleaming brass and marble bar surrounded by floral-print clad bar stools / ©Francisco Nogueira
Next, we head to The Ivens – a brand-new hotel that opened earlier this year in Lisbon’s bustling Chiado district. Occupying a beautiful pastel pink 19th-century building, the property’s interiors effortlessly mix bold colorful patterns and textures with bespoke Art deco furnishings.
The Gastro Bar is no exception. Red velvet stairs lead into an intimate space with a chequered marble floor and tropical plants springing from every corner. The star of the show, however, is the gleaming brass and marble bar surrounded by floral-print clad bar stools.
As well as an extensive drinks list, you can enjoy a selection of traditional Portuguese light bites including cold meats, cheeses, salads and fresh pastas. And if you’re hoping for a lively evening, stick around for the DJ.
theivenshotel.com
