Chiado is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Lisbon.

You’ll find everything here, from cozy cafes and taverns, to boutique shops and art galleries. In fact, if you love culture, books, and good food, Chiado is the place to be.

In this Chiado Lisbon guide, I share my top recommendations for where to stay, eat, shop, and more. So, let’s dive right in!

A bit about Chiado

Chiado is often described as the soul of Lisbon.

Nestled between the districts of Bairro Alto and Baixa, this artistic neighbourhood is characterized by elegant shops, historic cafés, and cultural institutions.

Chiado has always been a meeting point for artists, writers, and intellectuals. The famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa was born here, and he was a frequent customer at the coffeehouses in the area.

The history of Chiado dates back to the 16th century when it was a bustling marketplace. It was a significant commercial area, and over time, it evolved into a cultural hotspot.

Much of Chiado was destroyed in the 1988 fire, leading to a massive restoration effort that preserved its unique character while modernizing many of its facilities.

Today, walking through Chiado feels like stepping into a historical narrative, with each building telling its own story.

The blend of old and new architecture makes Chiado a significant part of Lisbon’s cultural landscape.

Why you should stay in Chiado

Chiado is one of the best places to stay in Lisbon. It’s lively, central, and quite safe.

It’s ideal if you want to do some shopping while in Lisbon, and indulge in the local cuisine. It’s also not that touristy compared to other areas in Lisbon, like Alfama and Baixa.

Plus, Chiado is right next to Bairro Alto, which is the nightlife hub of Lisbon. Here, the cobbled streets are lined with taverns and restaurants.

Chiado is compact and highly walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.

If you need to travel to other parts of Lisbon, the area is well-served by public transportation, including trams, buses, and the metro.

The iconic Tram 28 is a popular choice, as it takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of the city, including Chiado.

Best hotel in Chiado

We stayed at Lisboa Pessoa Hotel, a 4-star hotel in the heart of Chiado. It’s housed within a traditional building but is very modern on the inside.

Our room was cozy, with plenty of natural light. The hotel has a rooftop cafe and restaurant, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lisbon.

There’s also a lovely spa, with a sauna, steam room, and a heated pool. We visited Lisbon in January, and loved heading to the spa after a day of sightseeing.

Plus, the hotel is right next to attractions like Carmo Convent and Santa Justa Lift. The train station is just a 10-minute walk away, so it’s perfect if you’re planning a day trip from Lisbon to Sintra and other places.

Top attractions in Chiado

There are many interesting places in Chiado Lisbon. Here are some must-see attractions.

Livraria Bertrand

Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest operating bookstore, Livraria Bertrand has been a staple of Chiado since 1732.

Here, you’ll find a wide selection of Portuguese and international titles.

The bookstore also hosts literary events and book launches.

Teatro Nacional de São Carlos

Another iconic landmark in Chiado is the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos, the home of Lisbon’s opera.

Opened in 1793, this beautiful neoclassical building plays host to several events, including classical concerts.

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Lisbon, you could spend an evening at the theatre.

Attending a performance here is not only a chance to enjoy the arts but also to admire the opulent interior, which features grand chandeliers and lush seating.

Even if you’re not attending a show, guided tours are available for those interested in learning about the theatre’s history.

Café A Brasileira

No visit to Chiado would be complete without stopping by Café A Brasileira, one of the oldest and most famous cafés in Lisbon.

Opened in 1905, this cafe has been a favorite spot for artists and intellectuals over the decades. Inside, you’ll find a stunning interior and a rich atmosphere.

They make some delicious coffee and pastries here. You can even buy their signature coffee as a souvenir.

Chiado Museum

The Chiado Museum, or Museu Nacional de Arte Contemporânea, has an impressive collection of Portuguese contemporary art.

Housed in a former convent, this museum offers a unique juxtaposition of history and modernity. The exhibitions include works from the 19th century to the present day, featuring both established and emerging artists.

You can enjoy various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and photography. The museum also hosts exhibitions and cultural events, making it a dynamic space for art enthusiasts.

Carmo Convent

The Carmo Convent is one of the most striking landmarks in Lisbon.

This 14th-century convent was partially destroyed by the 1755 earthquake. Today, it stands as an open-air ruin, with its roofless Gothic arches reaching toward the sky.

Inside the convent, you’ll find an impressive small museum that houses a collection of artifacts from different periods of Portuguese history.

These include prehistoric relics, medieval tombs, and even mummies from South America.

You can buy your tickets at the door.

Santa Justa Lift

Built in 1902 by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, a student of Gustave Eiffel, this iron elevator is a marvel of 19th-century engineering and architecture.

Santa Justa Lift connects the bustling Baixa district to Chiado. It was originally built to help locals navigate the city’s steep hills.

You can ride the lift for a small fee, though expect long queues. Even if you don’t ride the elevator, you can access the upper viewing platform for free (it’s right next to Carmo Convent).

Shopping in Chiado

Chiado is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end fashion boutiques to artisanal shops selling handcrafted goods.

If you’re looking for gifts and souvenirs, you’ll find a lot of small shops that sell traditional Portuguese products such as azulejos (decorative tiles), ceramics, and textiles.

For example, d’Orey Tiles have a huge selection of authentic Portuguese tiles. They also sell antique pieces.

Meanwhile, A Vida Portuguesa has a wide array of artisan products, all produced locally. These include foods and delicacies, ornaments, homeware, and a lot more.

The main shopping street, Rua do Carmo, is lined with popular international brands. There’s also a shopping mall, Armazens do Chiado, where you’ll find around 50 stores on six levels.

Where to eat in Chiado

Chiado is also a culinary hotspot, offering a delightful array of dining options. From traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine, there’s something for every palate.

For a true taste of Lisbon, try some bacalhau à brás (codfish), or indulge in pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at one of the local bakeries.

Castro on Rua Garrett makes some lovely custard tarts, which you can get in a box to enjoy at your hotel.

If you want to sample local cheeses and smoked meats, head to Bairro do Avillez. You can also find a variety of seafood dishes here.

Another good place for trying different Portugese dishes is Antonia Petiscos. This cozy little tavern is technically located in Bairro Alto, but it’s just a short walk from the centre of Chiado.

And if you’re in the mood for tapas and cocktails, there’s Tapas n Friends. This place is great if you want to sit outdoors and order different dishes to share.

Lisbon is very hilly, so don’t feel bad about pigging out. You’ll be burning those extra calories pretty quickly!

Frequently asked questions about Chiado

Still not sure about staying in Chiado? Let’s answer some common questions!