My best Lisbon hidden gems

Let’s explore Lisbon’s hidden gems together.

I’ve been living in Lisbon for a few years now, and one of my favorite things to do is to discover unique spots and things to do in the city.I love sharing these finds with friends – and now with you.

In this guide, you’ll find my recommendations for the best hidden gem cafes, breakfast spots, international restaurants, workshops, and street vendors.

If you’re a curious traveler who likes to blend in, discover local traditions, this list is for you.

My favorite cafes in Lisbon

Coffee plays a vital role in Portuguese culture. Locals often stop at their favorite quiosques or small cafes to enjoy a bica, the traditional strong espresso, while standing at the counter before continuing their day.

In recent years, the coffee scene in Lisbon has changed.

New foreign- and Portuguese-owned cafes have opened, offering speciality coffee made from special beans and roasts.

These places are about community, sitting down, relaxing, and savoring an espresso or a cappuccino.

And, the tradition of grabbing a quick bica at the counter remains popular.

Milkees

Midnight Espresso

Do Beco

Fábrica

Best Breakfast spots in Lisbon

I love a good breakfast. It’s a “Sunday thing” for me. I go early to avoid the crowd, and then I linger!

One or two coffees, eggs, or a delicious toast with cheese or avocado.

Sourdough is my favourite type of bread but I love the Portuguese croissant that seems to be a blend of a croissant and a brioche.

My favorite breakfast places.

Shakar

Do Beco

Do Beco bake their delicious sourdough and other breads.  The food and the service is great.

Bom Dia

This is the popular breakfast spot for locals in the Saldanha area.  They also have  jazz evenings sometimes!

Magnolia Bistrot & Wine

Sit inside or on the sidewalk tables to enjoy the park views.

Seagull Method

Seagull Method is not a hidden gem anymore but still a gem: It has become a popular expat and tourist breakfast place. Arrive early. The food is great. No reservation but  it’s worth the visit and the wait if you have to get in line!

Hello, Kristof

There are several throughout Lisbon, all  are very different from each other and are worth visiting.

Best baguettes and French bakery in Lisbon

Lully

Lully is in Campo de Ourique, Beato and Anjos

Best Hidden Gems in Lisbon: International restaurants

Lisbon is quickly becoming a top foodie destination. 

I’m excited about the city’s growing international community and how it’s bringing exciting flavors from around the world. Different cultures and tastes merge, creating a amazing food scene here in Lisbon.

My list of the best restaurants in Lisbon

Clube do Jornalista Portuguese food with a modern and international flair.

Touta Ballouta Lebanese restaurant.

Pomme Eatery International food, Spanish and French influences

Imanol Authentic Spanish tapas

The Oven Indian and Nepalese restaurant

Canalha Amazing fish, meat and more. Portuguese, Brazilian and French influences.

Tapisco  Portuguese tapas

Not all my hidden gem tips are budget spots, so please check out their sites to view prices and make sure they are a fit.

My best budget-friendly restaurants in Lisbon

 Mezze (Middle Eastern food) is in a food market in Arroios, and an NGO founded it to help immigrants integrate into their new society through food.

CAM cafeteria: Best museum cafeteria in Lisbon!

Barouk is a Lebanese restaurant at the LX Factory. It is an excellent spot for lunch or dinner.

AnNam, Vietnamese restaurant. Very good! 

Things to do in Lisbon: Workshops, hobbies and more

I am always going on and on about the importance of having hobbies, taking your hobbies on your trips, or traveling around hobbies. Hobbies are a fantastic way to connect with people and to learn new things.

I have met so many people through my hobbies when I travel. Join a few classes while you are visiting Lisbon!

Serranofil: Learn the art of Arraiolo stitching in Lisbon

Lisbon Sketchers

Retrosoaria Pomar  for those of you who love to knit, crochet, embroider and sew. They offer workshops and merchandise.

Create your mosaic in Lisbon

Shopping hidden gems

Fashion in Lisbon is exciting. It’s modern, quirky, contemporary and you will also find many stores that carry more classic things along with the famous designers stores throughout the city.

Best fashion and curated stores in Lisbon

Soul Mood

I love this store! They have beautiful clothes for every season and you will love their jewellery made by their designer.

Loja das Meias

This store is inside the Amoreiras shopping mall. 

One of my favourite stores in Lisbon is 71 Castilho.

You can find beautiful clothes by Maliparmi and other amazing designers.

71 Castilho is on one of the most famous streets in Lisbon (Castilho) and near the Parque Eduardo VII, my favourite park in Lisbon!

Lost in India: Amazing silk dresses and more! I always buy summer dresses there.

Best art to wear in Lisbon

Galeria Reverso: Art to Wear

Unique handbags in Lisbon

Forms Bags and Designs

Coisas de Maria 

Handmade. They sell their bags in different places throughout the city so you will need to check out their Instagram to see where they will be when you are shopping.

More information about bags: Creative handbags  in Lisbon

Best vintage in Lisbon

Vintage Clothes and Jewelry: Outra Face da Lua

Best private gym in Lisbon

Make an appointment and stay in shape during your Lisbon trip.

Exercise Studio

My favourite trainer: Eduardo Schultz

All trainers are fantastic at this boutique gym. 

Best flower store in Lisbon: Flores no Cais

Flores no Cais create gorgeous flower arrangements. 

This is where I buy flowers for my home.

Flowers are a fantastic way to pamper yourself so send a bunch to your hotel room or Airbnb!

Address: Avenida Antonio Augusto de Aguiar, 58C

Phone: +351 924 701 603

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Updated September 2025