Home to traditional eateries and lively bars, Bairro Alto is a Bohemian neighbourhood in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon. Its steep, cobblestone streets are traversed by historic funiculars and lined with centuries-old residences, many of which are adorned with colourful street art.
Things to do in Bairro Alto
No visit to Bairro Alto is complete without riding the Ascensor da Bica, a 19th-century funicular that ascends one of the steepest hills in Lisbon. It was built in 1892 and originally functioned using a water counterbalancing system before being steam powered and now electrically driven. Near the top, you can enjoy magnificent views across Lisbon’s rooftops from the Miradouro de Santa Cantarina.
Bairro Alto is home to the exquisite Igreja de São Roque, which is one of the first Jesuit churches to be built in the Portuguese world. Its relatively austere, whitewashed facade hides an elaborate interior featuring Baroque-style chapels dating from the early 17th century. Gaze up at the painted ceiling and admire the beautiful Capela de São João Baptista, which was the most expensive chapel in Europe when it was designed.
While exploring the streets of Bairro Alto, keep an eye out for the colourful artwork that adorns its buildings or join a dedicated street art walking tour. The neighbourhood really comes to life after dark, with eclectic bars occupying many of its historic residences. Traditional Portuguese dishes are served at local “tascas”, several of which host nightly performances of Fado music.
Getting around Bairro Alto
Bairro Alto is a five-minute drive or 15-minute walk from both the Cais do Sodré and Rossio railway stations while the Baixa-Chiado subway station is in the south-east corner of the neighbourhood. Humberto Delgado Airport is 20 minutes away and has flights to destinations across the globe.