Curator’s statement
Fado is essential to Lisbon’s music identity. Fado features melancholic vocals and the intricate sound of the Portuguese guitar, which conveys deep emotion and melancholy. Think of it like a Portuguese version of the blues. Lisbon is also a crossroads for world music, reflecting Portugal’s global ties to Africa, Brazil, and beyond. And it is home to the National Theatre of São Carlos, an 18th-century opera house in Chiado, where you can hear world-renowned artists. Lisbon is also home to world-class museums like the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, which houses many Portuguese and European artists like Bosch, Dürer, and Raphael, and the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian, known for its classical and modern collections. There are good contemporary art museums as well, such as the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) and the Museu Coleção Berardo. Beyond the museums, be sure to visit the LX Factory, with its independent galleries, public art installations, and live performances.
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Things to do in Lisbon
Teatro Nacional São Carlos: The Sao Carlos National Theater is a part of any Lisbon guide-book. It has a tradition of more than one hundred years, built upon the wonderful presentations that were and are seen there. Located in the Chiado area, it has a marvelous architectural style and the beauty inside is even more astonishing. The opera time at San Carlos is always filled with classical and sumptuous presentations.
National Museum of Ancient Art: The National Museum of Ancient Art is located in a 17th-century palace and houses one of the most significant collections of European art in the world. It features works by artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Albrecht Dürer, and Raphael, and it is home to the famous ‘Panels of Saint Vincent,’ a masterpiece of Portuguese art.
Calouste Gulbenkian Museum: This museum houses an extensive collection of art, including European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, as well as ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Middle East.
LxFactory: LxFactory is an art center with a strong industrial feel in the Alcântara district of Lisbon. Located on the grounds of a major textile factory dating back to the mid-19th century, this complex of hipster delights boasts galleries, shops and restaurants, and performance spaces. Slightly off the beaten track, but an absolute must-visit if you want to experience the more alternative and young side of Lisbon.
MAAT: The Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology. This contemporary museum, located along the Tagus River, focuses on art, architecture, and technology, offering innovative exhibitions in a striking modern building.
Museu Coleção Berardo: Located in the Belém Cultural Center, this museum showcases modern and contemporary art, featuring works by renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Dalí.
Places to eat & drink in Lisbon
O Faia – Casa de Fado: Established in the 1940s, this renowned Fado house offers an intimate setting to enjoy live performances by talented Fado singers, complemented by classic Portuguese dishes like bacalhau (codfish).
O Corrido – Casa de Fado: They combine Fado with traditional Portuguese cuisine, featuring a menu with local specialties in an intimate setting that transports guests to the heart of Portuguese culture.
Casa de Linhares: Located in a historic 18th-century building in the Alfama district, this restaurant is famous for its traditional Portuguese cuisine, featuring dishes such as bacalhau (salted cod) and grilled sardines, and live Fado performances.
Mesa De Frades: Set in a former chapel with azulejo-tiled walls, this restaurant offers a unique atmosphere for dining and enjoying the soulful sounds of live Fado music.
Need to know
To get a taste of fado, listen to Carminho, Ana Moura, Mariza, Camané, Amália Rodrigues, Carlos do Carmo, and more on Apple Music, Spotify, or other streaming services.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Lisbon page.
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