El Corte Inglés
Avenida António Augusto de Aguiar 31, Azul, Lisbon, Portugal, 1069-413
The Spanish-owned El Corte Inglés is Lisbon’s 1-stop shopping destination and the only department store in Portugal’s capital. The 13-story complex features everything from a sprawling food court to its own movie theater, as well as more than 200 stores selling everything from toys to high-fashion brands such as Gucci, Versace, Dior, and Chanel.
The Basics
El Corte Inglés, a favorite retail destination among locals, offers something for everyone. Personal shoppers are available for those who want to splurge and non-EU visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping. Most hop-on hop-off tours of Lisbon include a stop at El Corte Inglés, and full-day personalized shopping tours are also available for those who want to explore the city’s best brands and boutiques.
Things to Know Before You Go
El Corte Inglés is a must-visit for shopaholics, especially fashionistas and tech enthusiasts.
The upper level features a cafeteria, restaurant, and delicatessen selling gourmet and imported products.
A grocery store, pharmacy, post office, and cobbler are found on the lower floors of the complex.
The entire complex is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
El Corte Inglés is located in Lisbon’s upmarket Avenidas Novas district. The best way to reach the shopping complex is by taking the red or blue metro line to the São Sebastião stop. Alternatively, take city bus 713, 726, 742, or 746 from the city center. If driving, park in the 4-story garage.
When to Get There
The shopping complex is open from 10am every day, with closing times varying from 8pm to 11:30pm; check the website for detailed hours. Due to its popularity, El Corte Inglés is often crowded, especially during the peak-tourism summer months. The best time to shop in Lisbon is during seasonal sales, generally from the end of December to February for the winter sales and July to September for the summer sales.
Club del Gourmet
For those looking for an international experience beyond clothing, a visit to the El Corte Inglés upper level is a must. The gourmet market here features local specialties and exclusive whiskies as well as a variety of international foods that prove difficult to find in a typical Lisbon grocery store. To round out the gourmet adventure, an upmarket food court features outlets from world-famous chefs, classy bars, and tasty confectioneries.
Ways to explore
A highlight of El Corte Inglés is the Gourmet Experience terrace on the seventh floor, where you can dine at restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs and buy high-end delicacies such as caviar and sparkling wine. Personal shoppers are available for those who want to splurge, and non-EU visitors can enjoy tax-free shopping. Most hop-on hop-off tours of Lisbon include a stop at El Corte Inglés, and full-day personalized shopping tours are also available for those who want to explore the city’s best brands and boutiques.
Accessibility
Elevators, accessible restrooms, and step-free entrances mean that El Corte Inglés is fully accessible.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Bring your passport if you plan on claiming a tax refund from the desk inside the shopping mall.
What to wear
The stores at El Corte Inglés are renowned for high fashion and luxury items, so dressing up a bit can be part of the fun (though it's not required).
Not allowed
Smoking, skateboards, scooters
Amenities
Wi-Fi, personal shopper service, currency exchange, restrooms
Address
El Corte Inglés is located in Lisbon’s upmarket Avenidas Novas district, which is home to the famous Avenida Republica, lined with grand mansions and luxury hotels.
Driving
From Praça do Comércio, head north on Rua da Prata toward Rossio Square (Praça Dom Pedro IV). Continue up Avenida da Liberdade, then take the exit onto Avenida Fontes Pereira de Melo at Marquês de Pombal roundabout. Drive straight until you reach Praça Duque de Saldanha, then turn right at Praça de Espanha toward São Sebastião.
Public transportation
The best way to reach the shopping complex is by taking the Red or Blue metro line to the São Sebastião stop. Alternatively, take city bus 713, 726, 742, or 746 from the city center.
Best times to visit
Head to the Gourmet Experience for lunch or dinner—it opens from 12pm and serves food until dinner time.
Best days to visit
On Friday and Saturday, El Corte Inglés stays open until 11pm, when you can shop and browse without the crowds.
Best months to visit
Shop from the end of December to February for winter sales and July to September for summer sales.
Special events
El Corte Inglés participates in Black Friday sales and also decks the mall out in Christmas decorations for the holiday season.
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