6 Things to Do in Lisbon in Summer

When Lisbon swelters, nothing is more refreshing than a tingling dip in the Atlantic. Follow the lead of Lisboetas by boarding the train to Cascais, where palm-dotted plazas and a trio of bays invite relaxation. Stick around to see the lively 5pm fish auction. 

Lined with 19th-century villas and famous for its casino, neighbouring Estoril has a more sedate vibe. Ferries breeze across to the Costa da Caparica’s long stretch of golden sand, a magnet for beachgoers and surfers.

Lisbon’s dining scene goes al fresco in summer. Freshly grilled sardines are served with citrusy vinho verde wine in the sun-dappled lanes of Moorish Alfama, where the owners of family-run restaurants spontaneously burst out into mournful fado song. 

For prime views of the castle glowing on the hillside, dine on Calçada do Duque’s twisting steps at dusk. Nearby, the Bairro Alto serves pre-party tapas on candlelit patios. Jostle for a table on Bonjardim’s terrace to eat Lisbon’s juiciest spit-roast chicken with piri-piri sauce.

Get your basket ready for a picnic in Lisbon’s shady botanical gardens and precipitous miradouros (viewpoints). Rise early at your Lisbon hotel in summer to bag the freshest fruit and crusty loaves at domed Mercado da Ribeira. Slip back to the 1930s at Conserveira de Lisboa, where tinned squid, cod and tuna are still lovingly wrapped in brown paper. 

Since 1860, Manuel Tavares has done a brisk trade in Portuguese specialities. Look out for muslin-wrapped Azeitão, a pungent ewe’s milk cheese, Alentejo chorizo and full-bodied Douro wines.

Lisboetas toast summer with Sagres beers at viewpoints overlooking Lisbon’s seven hills and upbeat street parties in the Bairro Alto’s grid-like lanes. Begin an evening over sticky shots of ginjinha (cherry liqueur) on the cobbles at A Ginjinha, just off Rossio square. Noobai Café’s well-hidden terrace is the place to be as Lisbon lights up, with views over the rooftops to the River Tagus. 

As the night wears on, meet for caipirinhas and dancing in the street at Portas Largas, or dockside drinks at Doca de Alcântara.