5 Must-Visit Cafés in Lisbon to Visit This Season

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5 Upscale and Historic Cafés in Lisbon to Visit This Season

Lisbon, a city where tradition meets modernity, is home to some of the most beautiful and historic cafés in Europe. These cafés are not just places to enjoy a cup of coffee; they are institutions that hold the stories, culture, and history of the city. This season, step into a bygone era by visiting these five upscale and old cafés in Lisbon. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the past, serving up not only exquisite coffee and pastries but also a rich atmosphere steeped in history.

1. Café A Brasileira

Café A Brasileira is one of Lisbon’s most iconic coffee houses, located in the heart of the Chiado district. Established in 1905, this café quickly became a meeting place for intellectuals, artists, and writers, including the famous Portuguese poet Fernando Pessoa. Its Art Deco interior and charming outdoor terrace offer a timeless experience. Enjoy a classic ‘bica’ (espresso) and take in the ambiance of old Lisbon, surrounded by beautiful wood paneling and vintage photographs.

2. Versailles

Established in 1922, Café Versailles remains one of Lisbon’s most elegant and refined cafés. With its lavish Belle Époque decor, complete with chandeliers and ornate mirrors, Versailles transports its visitors to a different era. Known for its wide selection of pastries and cakes, this café is a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. The serene and polished atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon tea.

3. Pastelaria Benard

Another gem in the Chiado district, Pastelaria Benard has been serving Lisboetas since 1868. This café exudes a classic charm with its antique wooden counters and tiled walls. It’s famous for its croissants and a variety of traditional Portuguese pastries. Sitting at Benard, with its elegant ambiance and observing the bustle of Chiado, is like watching a living piece of Lisbon’s history.

4. Martinho da Arcada

Martinho da Arcada, founded in 1782, is the oldest café in Lisbon and a significant cultural landmark. Located in the Comércio Square, it was a favorite haunt of many literary figures, including Fernando Pessoa. The café retains much of its original charm, with vintage furniture and photos of its famous patrons. The menu offers classic Portuguese cuisine and coffee, providing a truly historic dining experience.

5. Confeitaria Nacional

Founded in 1829, Confeitaria Nacional is not only a café but also one of the oldest and most renowned bakeries in Lisbon. Situated in the bustling Praça da Figueira, this café is a testament to Lisbon’s confectionary heritage. With its wood-paneled interiors and display of traditional sweets, including the famous ‘Bolo Rei’ (King Cake), it offers a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot to savor the flavors of Lisbon’s past.

Conclusion

These upscale and old cafés in Lisbon are more than just eateries; they are custodians of history, culture, and culinary excellence. Visiting these cafés is like stepping into a living museum, where every corner tells a story and every dish reflects a piece of Lisbon’s soul. They offer a unique experience that goes beyond the culinary, providing a connection to the city’s past and its traditions. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, spending time in these historic cafés is a must this season. They are not just places to eat and drink, but destinations to be experienced, cherished, and remembered.