How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Lisbon

by Joe Portugal

If you’re lucky to be in Lisbon for New Year’s Eve, you’re in for a treat. The city comes alive with fireworks, parties and merriness. What to do and where to go on New Year can feel a little overwhelming. Fortunately, we’ve put together some suggestions on seeing in 2017 in the Portuguese capital, depending on your personality.

The Traditionalist

Shadowgate via Flickr

Down on the waterfront, the large Praça do Comércio is an excellent spot to see in the new year. As the clock hits midnight a spectacular firework display lights up the sky and reflects off the Tagus River. The crowds are huge, so be sure to get down to the square early to secure a good spot. Further along the river in Belem, the famous Torre de Belem is also a great spot for fireworks and the historic district is packed with musical performances and parties. 

The Party-Goer

Lux Frágil – Nuno Nunes via Flickr

For clubbers, there is only one place for a New Year’s Eve party: Lux Frági. The legendary nightspot sees party goers through to the early hours. Tickets sell out fast, so make sure you snap yours up well advance. For those who want something a little tamer, the district of Barrio Alto has bars, pubs and restaurants for all tastes. The small venues and mild weather in Lisbon mean the parties spill out onto the streets. Lisbon is a city of seven hills, providing ample high spots to look down over the city. Head up to the PARK bar on top of a multi-storey car park to mingle with hipsters, sip cocktails, dance and enjoy spectacular views. Other notable nightlife in Lisbon can be found along Cais do Sodré, Rua.

The Foodie

Timeout Market Easy Thai

The foodie is spoiled for choice in Lisbon. The Time Out market food court opened in 2014 and houses tiny eateries from some of Portugal’s most exciting chefs. Head down to sample fine cuisine before the market turns into a party venue for New Year’s Eve. For excellent food in more refined setting, try Casa Alentejo, a restaurant housed within a beautiful old building. Seafood lovers should secure a seat at Cervejaria Ramiro, a family-run restaurant serving seafood in its purest form, finished with the house desert: a fried steak sandwich.

The Musician

David Schroeder via Flickr

The city’s music scene is diverse, but there is nothing quite like the somber soulful sounds of fado, traditional Portuguese songs of heartbreak and love lost. Clube de Fado is a lively little restaurant which serves up some excellent Portuguese food accompanied by fado songs. Similarly, the cozy O Faia restaurant gets in some big names in the world of fado. For something a little rougher around the edges, but arguably more authentic, is O Tasca, a tiny bar in Barrio Alto where punters are metres away from the singers.