Put on your best walking shoes — Here’s 5 iconic streets of Lisbon you have to visit
Lisbon can only be truly felt when you make your way through its historic neighbourhoods, with centuries worth of stories to disclose. You’ll find narrow, labyrinth-like streets, yellow trams taking locals and tourist up and down the steep hills, stunning views overlooking the river, colourful architecture, unique cobblestone pavements, picturesque with clothes hanging in the racks, balconies with hanging laundry drying in the wind, and so much more.
So take our advise. Put on your best walking shoes, and stroll along this five iconic streets of the city of the seven hills.
Rua Augusta — the famous one 📸
Quite possibly the most famous street of the capital. Also the most touristy one. You’ll find a number of shops, restaurants, and outdoor cafes (look out for the tourist traps though 😬). Rua Augusta connects two important squares — Praça do Comércio and Rossio — and it was built after the 1755 earthquake which destroyed Lisbon’s Downtown.
The top of Rua Augusta Arch is actually a viewpoint where you’ll get a birds’ eye view not only of the street, but all of downtown and the Tagus river.
Avenida da Liberdade —the stylish (and pricey) 🛍️
Champs-Elysées, in Paris, served as inspiration for the “Liberty Avenue”. It’s known for its many stores of luxury stores and hotels.
This spacious boulevard is almost 1,1 kms long and makes a pleasant walk while touring the city. Stroll under the shady trees, and remember to look down as you walk to admire the beautiful Portuguese cobblestone.
Rua Garrett — the sweetheart 😍
Certainly one of the local’s favourites, particularly during Christmas time, with it’s Christmas decorations and several international brands stores where to buy presents.
Here you’ll find one of the most famous Lisbon’s cafes — A Brasileira — dating back to 1905 and a meeting place for artists, writers and intellectuals. Permanently sitting outside is one of those writers — Fernando Pessoa — who’s depicted in a bronze statue, seated at a table. Also in this street you’ll find the oldest bookshop in the world — Bertrand.
Rua da Bica — the vintage 🚡
With its picturesque yellow funicular going up and down the steep hill, and the stunning view over the Tagus, Rua da Bica is certainly a highlight of any tour around the city.
Rua Cor-de-Rosa — the life of the party 💃
If you’re looking for the liveliest, most entertaining street head straight to Pink Street, in Cais do Sodré. It’s name comes, of course, from the pink tar carpet. You’ll find several bars and cafes where you can enjoy a drink.
Which other streets would you add to this list?
