Going out at night in Portugal, especially in Lisbon, is a unique experience. With a vibrant nightlife culture and options for all tastes, it's important to be prepared to make the most of it. Here's some essential information to help you get started.
Timings: A Long Night
In Portugal, the night starts late and ends in the early morning hours. Here's what you need to know:
- Dinner: Portuguese people eat dinner late, usually after 9 PM, especially on weekends.
- Bars: Bars start filling up around 11 PM or midnight, with the peak of activity between 1 AM and 2 AM.
- Nightclubs: No one heads out before 1 AM. The dance floor usually gets crowded between 2 AM and 4 AM, and the parties last until 6 AM.
- Extra Tip: Don't forget to drink in moderation to keep up with the pace, and on your way back, grab a traditional Portuguese breakfast, like a bifana sandwich or a pastel de nata.
Dress Code: What to Wear?
What you wear depends largely on where you're going:
- Casual: In Bairro Alto and Bica, you can go relaxed with jeans and a t-shirt. These areas are perfect for laid-back bars.
- Trendy: In Cais do Sodré and Príncipe Real, expect a more stylish and modern crowd. A bolder outfit may be appreciated, especially if you're planning to visit nightclubs or cocktail bars.
- Premium Nightclubs: Some more exclusive nightclubs may require a more formal dress code, like shoes and a shirt for men.
Cover Charges and Drinks
The way bars and nightclubs operate in Portugal might be different from what you're used to:
- Bars: Generally, there's no cover charge. Just show up, grab a drink, and enjoy the night.
- Nightclubs: Some nightclubs charge an entrance fee, which may include one or two drinks. Make sure to check the price before heading in.
- Consumption Card: Many places give you a card upon entry where your drinks are charged. At the end of the night, you hand in the card and pay the total. Don't lose your card, as most places will charge you the maximum possible amount (between 100-250 €).
Popular Nightlife Areas in Lisbon
Lisbon offers options for every style. Here are some of the most popular areas:
- Bairro Alto: The heart of laid-back and affordable bars. Perfect for kicking off the night.
- Cais do Sodré: A mix of traditional and modern bars, with the famous Rua Cor de Rosa.
- Príncipe Real: A more sophisticated and trendy area, ideal for cocktails.
- Docas de Santo Amaro: With views over the Tagus River, this area is a great spot for a more chill atmosphere.
- Santos: Different options of nightclubs.