Curator’s statement
In a city where history dances with modernity, Lisbon’s design scene thrives within the ancient architecture of this storied, sun-drenched city. The flourishing creative design and art scene reflects a city that honors its heritage while eagerly embracing innovation. The spirit of Lisbon’s artistic renaissance is palpable in the trendy neighborhoods of Chiado, Príncipe Real and São Bento.
Prncipe Real has small shops and creative centers. It has a lot of Portuguese craftsmanship, from furniture to handmade accessories. Embaixada, housed in a stunning restored palace, is a must-visit for design aficionados. In Chiado, the streets are lined with contemporary art galleries and concept stores, where minimalist design meets bold artistic expression. Meanwhile, São Bento is famous for its antique shops and ateliers, where artists and designers breathe new life into vintage finds. Together, these neighborhoods create a vibrant tapestry of creativity, where every corner of Lisbon pulses with inspiration and artistic flair.
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Where to stay in Lisbon
Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina
Indulge in the luxury and sophistication of Lisbon at Verride Palácio de Santa Catarina, where elegant accommodations, breathtaking city views and a central location come together to offer an extraordinary stay in the heart of Portugal's vibrant capital.
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$50 – 100 food / beverage credit.
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Daily breakfast.
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Torel Palace Lisbon
Located in the heart of Lisbon, Torel Palace is an oasis within the city, featuring a refreshing plunge pool and unique Portuguese gastronomy.
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Complimentary drink and bottle of wine.
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Welcome fruit plate in room.
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The Ivens, Autograph Collection
Elegant oasis located in a 19th-century Portuguese building with three well-appointed Italian restaurants.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Memmo Príncipe Real
Polished hillside property in the heart of Lisbon with chic rooms and suites.
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VIP welcome & amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Palácio Ludovice
Set in what was once the residence of João Frederico Ludovice, this small and stylish luxury hotel is a historical gem located a short walk from Rossio Square.
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Things to do in Lisbon
Kintu Studio
Kintu Studio is a place where you can find modern styles combined with traditional handwork. It has a wide selection of Portuguese handmade homeware, objects, and accessories that are unique and one-of-a-kind. The curation ranges from intricately woven textiles to beautifully hand-carved wooden decor, consciously reflecting thoughtful creation.
Feeting room
The Feeting Room changes how people shop with its diverse mix of new designers and new store ideas. It offers a modern shopping experience in the center of Lisbon that shows designs by small brands and independent Portuguese labels like Nobrand, Otherwise, and Atelier estorninho.
Vista Alegre
Founded in 1824, the historic Vista Alegre celebrates its 200-year anniversary of porcelain artistry. Their exquisitely crafted tableware and home decor are testaments to true Portuguese craftsmanship. Plus, their seasonal collaborations with design luminaries such as Christian Lacroix, Karim Rashid, Claudia Schiffer, Franck Muller, etc, are highly collectible items.
Embaixada
Embaixada is a unique concept store that is located in a beautiful 19th-century palace. It has a collection of mostly local designers and artists, each in their own rooms. The gin bar in the central courtyard serves as the perfect lounge to admire the original interior restored to its original glory.
21PR Concept
This stylish boutique is a great place to find new fashion, accessories, and lifestyle products. It has a carefully chosen selection of modern designs that are carefully chosen from the European region.
Next Memory
Step into a sensory journey through the different landscapes, culture and traditions of Portugal with Next Memory. The Atelier is a beautiful, restored laboratory from 1899. It lets you explore their amazing collection of fine fragrances, home and body products. It also honors its inspiring history.
Homecore
French-owned Homecore brings urban sophistication to Lisbon with its sleek, comfortable menswear. Casual but stylish, their careful attention to detail is shown in their signature tailored pants, warm knitwear, and bold outerwear. The store is also a great spot to discover cult brands such as Veja, Officine Universelle Buly 1803 and Amaury.
A Vida Portuguesa
The store is a charming place to celebrate Portuguese heritage. It takes visitors on a nostalgic trip through Portugal's history of handmade products. Shelves are filled with real products, from handmade ceramics and traditional soaps to delicious foods and old-fashioned paper goods. These items show the country's rich cultural traditions. Their new store DEPOZITO is in an old factory that has been turned into a craft store. It sells traditional handmade products and new artists' work, which is a true celebration of tradition and its renewal.
Mustique
Mustique offers bright, beach-inspired clothes and accessories that show the essence of tropical luxury. It combines bold prints with easy, sun-kissed elegance. Musicians The Jonas Brothers were recently spotted shopping there.
LX Factory
LX Factory is a lively creative center in an old factory complex. It has trendy shops, art studios, and new restaurants that come together to create Lisbon's coolest area. The graffiti-clad buildings house cultural events, markets, concerts and seasonal exhibitions, so be sure to check out their events calendar.
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Desmond Zhengs
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Lisbon. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Casey Stein's guide, A Thrilling Three Day Blitz in Lisbon.