Chiado
Chiado, Lisbon, Portugal, 1200-443
In the heart of Lisbon, Chiado is nestled between the lively Bairro Alto district and downtown Baixa District. The neighborhood is worth seeking out, not only to stroll along its luxury shops and art nouveau buildings, but to find some of Lisbon’s best cafés and restaurants. It also boasts cultural landmarks including the National Museum of Contemporary Art (Chiado Museum) and Teatro Nacional de São Carlos.
The Basics
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.
Things to Know Before You Go
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.
How to Get There
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.
When to Get There
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).
Lisbon’s Most Fashionable Neighborhood
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.
Ways to explore
Known for its mix of heritage and modern architecture, as well as its cultural cachet—Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa frequented the area—Chiado is a must on any Lisbon sightseeing itinerary. There’s plenty to see in this old-town enclave, from the ruins of the Carmo Church and convent, now a popular museum, to the National Theater.
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. It’s also easy to wander independently—soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere, swing by a charming bakery, and browse in the bookstores to your heart’s content.
Accessibility
Due to its very steep, cobbled streets, Chiado poses accessibility challenges—use a manual wheelchair and travel with a helper to make exploring simpler.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Sun protection, camera, water bottle, umbrella
What to wear
Wear comfortable layers for sightseeing, or a smart outfit to match the stylish locals—just be sure to wear sneakers with good grip.
Not allowed
While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.
Amenities
Shops, restaurants, access to public transit
Address
Chiado is part of central Lisbon’s old town. It’s easy to reach by taxi or rideshare, via public transit, or by booking a tour that includes transportation.
Driving
Because of traffic restrictions and parking limitations, driving to Chiado is not recommended. If you need to get there by car, opt for a taxi or rideshare instead.
Public transportation
Take the metro to the Baixa-Chiado station, or hop on Tram 28. A few bus routes also serve the neighborhood.
Best times to visit
It’s worth visiting Chiado in the daytime to experience the shops and cafés, or by sunset to catch views from the Elevador de Santa Justa.
Best days to visit
If you’re looking to beat the crowds, go on a weekday. To immerse yourself in Chiado’s lively dining scene, aim for a weekend instead.
Best months to visit
If you plan to do lots of outdoor sightseeing, spring and autumn are ideal times to visit Lisbon.
Special events
Live musical performances are held outside Chiado’s National Theater during July as part of the Festival ao Largo.
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