Having risen in the rankings of top cities to live in and attracting new talent, Lisbon has a laid-back vibe, eco-conscious lifestyle shops and inventive gastronomic experiences.
Roam the historic area of Cais do Sodré for up-and-coming fashion and lifestyle brands like Arches, which offers exclusive capsule collections and collaborations with local artists and brands, or explore the bohemian neighbourhood of Chiado, home to Portuguese brand +351, named after the country dialling code, for relaxed clothing inspired by surfing, music and the arts.
Príncipe Real is one of the most exciting neighbourhoods, revitalised via a project that transforms old buildings into new stores and food and drink spots. Visit the natural textiles showroom of Flores Textile Studio in charming Praça das Flores, which offers handwoven rugs and fabrics made in Portugal as well as furniture by local artisans.
Although seafood and pastel de nata are staples, slow food menus and contemporary menus are trending. Indulge at the Michelin-starred restaurant Belcanto for inventive yet traditional flavours with great wine pairings. Browse the Time Out Market for a variety of Lisbon’s best restaurants and street food vendors under one roof, or try the reimagined French patisserie Juliana Penteado, which uses essential oils in cakes, granola, biscuits and honey.
The city has seen an increased interest in niche fragrances and conscious beauty brands such as Organii, the first company in the country to specialise in organic cosmetics, and centenary brand Benamôr, a traditional Portuguese perfumery known for its simple aromas translated into soft scents of cologne and soaps.
Cultural institutions worth visiting include the museum, library and gallery Fundação Calouste, which is home to the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, as well as MAAT, The Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology located on the banks of the Tejo in Belém. It is worth seeing not only for its exhibitions, but also for its architecture as visitors can walk over, under and through the building.
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