How to Travel Like a Local in Lisbon: Hidden Gems, Food & Insider Tips

Yellow tram on cobblestone street between historic buildings. People walk nearby under clear sky. Tranquil, sunny urban scene.

Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, is packed with history, charm, and plenty of postcard-worthy views. But if you want to experience it beyond the usual tourist hotspots, it’s time to embrace the city like a local. Here’s how to do just that!

1. Eat Where the Locals Eat 🍽️

Sure, everyone flocks to Pastéis de Belém for the famous custard tarts, but locals know that Manteigaria serves up some of the best pastéis de nata in town—without the long lines.

These rich, creamy delights are best enjoyed with a sprinkle of cinnamon and powdered sugar.

For a truly authentic meal, skip the fancy restaurants and head to a tasca (a small, traditional eatery). Try Taberna da Rua das Flores for petiscos (Portuguese tapas) like pica-pau (juicy beef bites) or octopus salad.

If seafood is what you're after, Ramiro is the ultimate spot for fresh prawns dripping in garlic butter, succulent crab, and juicy clams cooked in white wine. Don’t forget to try the prego (steak sandwich) for dessert – yes, it’s a local tradition!

For those wanting a quick bite, grab a bifana (pork sandwich) from O Trevo, one of Lisbon’s best spots for this simple yet delicious snack.

👉 Why not try and food and wine walking tour?

Two colorful trams pass on a narrow Lisbon street, surrounded by old buildings with balconies. A street sign reads "Rua da Madalena."

2. Ride Public Transport Like a Pro 🚋

Instead of hopping on Tram 28 with a crowd of tourists, take Tram 12, which covers similar sights but is much less packed. Another alternative is the Carris buses and metro, which are both affordable and easy to navigate.

For a stunning ride, hop on the ferry from Cais do Sodré to Cacilhas, where you’ll get breathtaking views of Lisbon’s skyline for just a few euros. Once in Cacilhas, take a short walk to Ponto Final, a scenic riverside restaurant where you can dine with your feet almost in the water!

Want to get around like a true Lisboeta? Download the Navegante card, a transport pass that allows you to ride unlimited metro, trams, and buses without hassle.

👉 Get your Lisbon Transport Pass Here

Red-roofed buildings in a coastal cityscape under a clear blue sky. A dome and church tower are visible, with a bay and ship in the background.

3. Discover Secret Viewpoints 🌅

Lisbon is famous for its miradouros (viewpoints), but while tourists crowd Miradouro de Santa Catarina, locals head to Miradouro da Senhora do Monte, which offers one of the best panoramic views of the city with fewer crowds.

Another hidden gem is Jardim do Torel, a charming park where locals sip coffee while enjoying the peaceful setting.

If you want a view with a drink in hand, head to Park Bar, a rooftop bar hidden above a parking garage in Bairro Alto – you wouldn’t guess it’s there, but the views and cocktails are incredible!

👉 Don't forget your camera, you don't want to miss out on those stunning shots.

Colorful street scene with yellow buildings, a pink road, and a black motorcycle. People walk on a bridge above. Bright, lively atmosphere.

4. Wander Through Local Neighbourhoods 🏡

Most visitors stick to Baixa and Alfama, but Graça and Campo de Ourique are where you’ll find Lisbon’s true heartbeat.

Graça: This historic, artsy neighbourhood is full of quirky cafés, street art, and quiet spots where locals unwind after a long day. Walk along Rua da Graça, pop into a bakery, and take in the daily rhythm of the city.

Campo de Ourique: A charming, more residential area with fantastic food markets, bakeries, and indie shops. Make sure to visit Mercado de Campo de Ourique, a local food market where you can sample everything from fresh seafood to Portuguese pastries.

Príncipe Real: Known for its boutique shops, trendy cafés, and gorgeous gardens. A must-visit spot is Embaixada, a stunning 19th-century palace turned into a shopping gallery featuring local designers and artisans.

👉 Try these unique stays in the area

Acoustic guitars hang on a tiled wall with music posters in a cozy bar. A man in a checkered shirt works by a wooden counter; shelves of bottles.

5. Listen to Fado in a Local Spot 🎶

Fado music is an essential part of Lisbon’s soul, but instead of going to a touristy fado house, visit a small, authentic venue like Tasca do Chico or A Baiuca, where the atmosphere is intimate, and the music is raw and emotional.

For an even more immersive experience, head to Mesa de Frades, a tiny fado bar inside a former chapel, where musicians play just inches away from the audience.

👉 Try this Fado Dinner Show

Crowded indoor shopping mall with glass roof. People walking on multiple levels, shops like Levi's visible. Bright, lively atmosphere.

6. Shop Where Locals Shop 🛍️

Skip the souvenir shops and check out LX Factory, a trendy hub of local designers, bookstores, and concept stores.

For vintage finds, explore Feira da Ladra, Lisbon’s famous flea market, where you can hunt for antiques, handmade goods, and quirky trinkets.

If you love books, stop by Livraria Bertrand, the world’s oldest operating bookstore, tucked away in Chiado.

For authentic Portuguese tiles, visit Sant’Anna or Viúva Lamego, two historic ceramics shops where you can find unique, hand-painted azulejos.

Night street scene with people gathered outside "TAPISCO". Warm yellow lights glow on red doors, with parked cars lined up. Cozy atmosphere.

7. Experience Lisbon at Night 🌙

While most tourists stick to Bairro Alto for nightlife, locals prefer Cais do Sodré and Anjos for more authentic vibes. Cais do Sodré’s Pensão Amor is a former brothel turned eclectic bar with a vintage feel, while Casa Independente in Anjos is a hidden cultural hub with live music and an artsy atmosphere.

For a truly local experience, join a santos (Lisbon street festival) if you’re visiting in June. These lively celebrations feature grilled sardines, dancing, and plenty of sangria under the stars!

Ready to Travel to Lisbon?

👉 Don't forget your Travel Insurance (Boring I know, but a necessity!)

By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll experience a side of Lisbon that most travellers never see.

From hidden cafés to stunning viewpoints, Lisbon is a city best enjoyed slowly and with an open heart. Ready to explore like a local? 🇵🇹✨