We all know that going somewhere as a tourist only gives us a small glimpse into the breadth and width of any culture. But if you get the chance to stay in one place for longer, where should you go so you can get a good feel for the place? To answer that, we put together this shortlist of places you should visit and activities you should enjoy so that you can get the vibes ofthecity when you rent an apartment in Lisbon that much easier.
Modern and old art in Lisbon
One way to get a good feel for a place is to see its art, both modern and old, and Lisbon is home to many different museums and galleries that will catch you up to speed.
There’s the National Tile Museum which focuses on the famous national tradition of tile-making. Not only do these small tiles show the craftsmanship that goes into making them, but they also hold the national history as different styles react to various historical events.
History in the art can also be seen in the National Museum of Ancient Art, which displays canvasses from the 16th to the 19th century, including portraits and paintings from the age of discovery.
Another such exhibition is focused more on the East and is housed in the Museu do Oriente.
And if you’re looking for something more modern, you can always visit the Berardo Collection Museum.
Explore Lisbon’s markets
If you want to be part of something genuinely historical, look no further than the market at Feira de Ladra. Since the 12th century, there has been a market organised here until the present day. Today, you can come here in the middle of the week or on the weekend and look through the dazzling array of trinkets and antiques on display. Haggling is not compulsory but encouraged, and you can return home with some absolute treasures.
And when you’re starving, head on down to Mercado da Ribeira. This place offers tons of local and traditional foods and drinks so that you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner here, or you can make it a spot on your next pub crawl.
You can get a similar experience in the more modern Time Out Market as well, so make sure to visit at least one of these.
Music in Lisbon
In the evening, you may find that your local café or pub has fado performances that have become Lisbon's musical staple. This 200-years-old style is still being performed today and has been recognised by UNESCO for its cultural importance.
Find some small, local performer to soak in the atmosphere and have some delicious local wine as you listen to this enduring expression of Lisbon’s people.
If you’re looking for Jazz, Lisbon also has you covered. You can head on down to the Hot Clube de Portugal to listen to excellent local jazz musicians. Alternatively, you can enter the hipster paradise, the LX Factory, where you will find art, design, fashion, and much more to enjoy next to modern music.
