Sundays in Lisbon: Places to go and Sights to see
I’ve always had a love/ hate relationship with the concept of a Sunday; – people chilling around their local towns, having brunch dates and seeing family. I’ve never viewed Sundays in this way. Perhaps because as a hospitality worker, Sundays are usually more hectic than tranquil. In Lisbon however it’s almost impossible not to chill out on Sundays.
There is something about being in Lisbon on a Sunday which makes it my favourite day to visit. No matter where you are there is always something, yet it never loses that peaceful feeling: a feeling of Domingo (Sunday).
If any of you are like myself when it comes to exploring new neighborhoods, taking 34,657,687 photos, of literally everything and anything, is normal then Lisbon on a Sunday is perfect! With fewer people and less shops open, capturing Lisbon’s architectural scene becomes a lot easier. Plus there are so many different ways to see all the sights. You could create your own walking route using Google Maps and follow your own trail to which sites you wish to see, or even hire a bicycle or jump on one of the many electric scooters which you can pick up and drop off anywhere you go. Just download the app, use your bank card and go!
One of my favourite ways to get around is to catch a tram. The number 28E from Praça Luis de Camões to Graça is a lovely little ride with great views and streets you probably would never have found. It’s slightly better for the environment as it means less cars on the streets but it’s also a way to put money into the city I am enjoying, so others can enjoy it too! – Just like in the UK make sure you have a face mask and some sanitiser if you decide to take a tram. –
A few minutes away from the Graça stop there is an incredible view point overlooking the entire city centre. There are a few bars and cafés nearby for a coffee or beer stop before making your way to the next stop. From here take a stroll towards São Jorge Castle and the surrounding neighborhoods of Alfama and Castelo. Or continue walking out of the city, enjoy the Jardim da Cerca da Graça before reaching the Senhora do Monte viewpoint. It’s a little more busy than the Graça viewpoint, but the sights are just as pretty. It’s also a good high spot for watching the sun go down if you’re staying in the area.
Fancy a slightly more chilled out day? Grab your travel buddies and have a long lunch, but try some local favourites whilst you’re at it; indulge in wine from nearby regions and take it slow, you do not want to miss dessert! Portuguese people love their food and who doesn’t? Pair it with family and friends (adhering to government guidelines, obviously) and before you realise it’s been four hours, you’ve eaten way too much bread, chourizo and emptied a good amount of wine bottles. A side note, their dishes may not look as pretty as the french or be as quick as Asian street food but boy-oh-boy, it is delicious! My top three dishes are; Bacalhau á brás, classic bifana and a fresh octopus salad!
The next few things I want to tell you about are places to keep in mind for later in 2021/2022, right now like the rest of the world many events are cancelled, gone virtual or miniature. Therefore depending on when you are visiting keep these in mind but you’ll have to do a little of your own research as to the situation.
LX Factory.
Sunday’s are market days. This old factory hosts lots of art and craft sellers, vintage stalls and artisan food markers.In 2008 it was transformed into an Arts centre with many creatives starting up studio spaces, small boutiques arose and it’s one of the top spaces for creative arts in the city. Keep an eye out for cool art installations and graffiti whilst you explore. Grab a pint and burger half way through your route around the space or head to the rooftop bar to watch the sunset with views of the 25th de Abril bridge and the river.
[Rumour has it, LX is no longer and shall be renovated into apartments over the next year.]
Brunch Electronik – in the Park
If lazy, chilled Sunday’s not the vibe you’re looking for, check out this music festival. With top DJs and musicians from around the world, party your afternoon and night away with dance and electronic music. Set a little out of the city, enjoy Somersby Cider, Beirao or Super Bock in your reusable cup whilst listening to some great music, all whilst getting a tan! Usually runs from July to September and tickets can sell out super quickly.
Out Jazz
Not as much Jazz music as you would think but it’s a nice scene to chill out at. Take a picnic, plenty of drinks and enjoy a different kind of music scene. The last one I visited was set in the gardens of the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture & Technology) but locations do change.This event runs from May to September and is completely free to attend!
Local Markets
Across the whole country little markets are popular in many towns. In Lisbon there are quite a few depending on what you are into. Visit the Mercado da Ribeira Collection Market if books, stamps, comics and coins are in your interests. As the name suggests if you are a collector of something you may find it here.From 9am to 1pm. Looking for an afternoon market, then visit Algés Fair. A craft and antiques market located in Municipal Gardens on the fourth Sunday of each month or in Municipal Garden of Paço de Arcos on the third Sunday of the month. Both are open from 9am-6pm. Lastly, if you are needing an excuse to stroll around Belém, other than how pretty the area is. There is a market for antiques, crafts and old things of Belém, held on the first and third Sunday of each month. Located close to Jerónimos Monastery, from 9am lasting until 5pm in the winter and until 7pm in the summer months.
