Chiado

Most of the structures in Chiado originally date from the 1700s, but were destroyed in a 1988 fire. Famous Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira rebuilt the neighborhood in the 1990s, leaving the city with a mix of new and restored buildings. Portuguese poets Fernando Pessoa and Eça de Queiróz frequented Chiado around the turn of the century, and penned a few of their famous works in cafés such as A Brasileira.

In addition to the old ruins of the Carmo Church and convent, now a popular museum, visitors relish Chiado’s cosmopolitan atmosphere with charming bookstores, the National Theatre, international stores, cozy cafés, and delicious eateries. Many private and group sightseeing tours of Lisbon visit Chiado. Explore on foot or via tuk-tuk, air-conditioned vehicle, or hop-on hop-off bus.

• Chiado is a must-visit for literary lovers and bohemian types.

• Wear comfortable shoes to reach and explore this hilly neighborhood.

• Step back in time and take the 19th-century Elevador de Santa Justa, aka the Carmo Lift, to Largo de Carmo.

Chiado is a central Lisbon neighborhood with access to the blue and green metro lines as well as the number 28 electric tram. Get off at the Baixa-Chiado metro station and arrive at the central meeting point of Praca Luís de Camoes.

The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit Lisbon—and Portugal in general. It’s usually less crowded at these times, and temperatures are cool and comfortable compared to the high season (June to August).

Spend a day exploring the fashionable side of Chiado. Have breakfast at Tartine or famous A Brasileira, or enjoy a delicious custard tart at Manteigaria. Stroll along Rua Garrett for some shopping, or learn about Lisbon’s history at the ancient Carmo Square, Igreja de São Roque, and Chiado Museum (Museu do Chiado). Head to the viewpoint (miradouro) at Adamastor park to watch the sunset, and enjoy a night of revelry at the nearby bars and restaurants.