Discover things to do in Lisbon in August. Find out if an August trip to Lisbon is worth doing. Enjoy the best of Lisbon in the late summer.
Are you wondering what it’s like to visit Lisbon in August? We moved to Lisbon in 2022 and have had the good fortune to experience life in the city during different parts of the year.
The city is absolutely sizzling at this time of year, and not just because of the sunshine. August in Lisbon is electric - packed with festivals, buzzing with energy, and full of opportunities for unique experiences.
You should be aware that many locals decamp from the city to the Algarve and other coastal places in August so you're likely to encounter more tourists and less locals when you visit.
Let’s explore a variety of cool things to see, do, and eat in Lisbon in August to help inspire your own trip to Portugal in the summer.
Let’s explore a variety of cool things to see, do, and eat in Lisbon in August to help inspire your own trip to Portugal in the summer.
All of my recommendations are based on my personal experience exploring Lisbon at this time of year.
Beat the Heat and Explore Like a Local
August in Lisbon can get toasty, but I've got you covered. Here's how to stay cool and make the most of your time.
Discover an Alternative Foodie Paradise
Most visitors head to Time Out Market in the heart of Lisbon. Time Out Market is one of my favorite food halls in Europe, but I try to avoid it in the summer when the mercado is simply overrun with tourists.
The food hall on the top floor of El Corte Inglês is a great (air conditioned!) alternative and one of my favorite Lisbon hidden gems. You'll find an incredible variety of cuisines, from Brazilian to Italian to Mexican. I highly recommend Jacaré for a delicious Sunday lunch - the ceramic crocodile overlooking the diners adds a fun, quirky touch.
Take the blue or the red line of the Lisbon Metro to São Sebastião station to get here.
Escape to Shopping Mall Oasis
Looking for air-conditioned comfort? Head to Colombo Mall! You can bowl a few rounds, treat yourself to a surprisingly good margarita at Guacamole, or indulge in some retail therapy. It's a great way to beat the heat and enjoy some indoor fun.
Sip and Socialize with Furry Friends
For a taste of local life, grab a coffee at Simpli cafe in Saldanha, one of my favorite coffee shops in Lisbon. Their outdoor patio overlooking the historic maternity hospital and a small square is a prime spot for dog watching - you'll be amazed by the variety of furry friends wagging their tails and chasing balls.
It's a great place to relax, sip your coffee, and soak in the laid-back Lisbon vibe.
Embrace the Evenings: Sunsets, Strolls, and City Lights
As the day cools down, Lisbon truly comes alive. Here are some funs ways to spend your evenings.
Sunset Drinks with a View
Head to Linha da Água, a cool and breezy cafe perched atop Parque Eduardo VII, and treat yourself to a glass of wine as the sun dips below the horizon. The views are simply breathtaking - the perfect way to end a day of exploring.
Stroll Through Restaurant Row
Take a walk through the streets behind Time Out Market, particularly Rua de Sao Paulo and Rua de Boa Vista. These vibrant streets are packed with fantastic restaurants - you'll be spoiled for choice! One of my personal favorites is Tricky's - their food and cocktails never disappoint!
Discover Hidden History
Keep an eye out for free walking tours. Casa dos Bicos / Fundação José Saramago puts on a number of specialized walks during the summer. We signed up for a walk covering the Jewish history of Lisbon which gave us the perfect excuse to explore all the nooks and crannies of Alfama.
These tours offer fascinating insights into the city's rich past and take you to hidden corners you might otherwise miss.
Unexpected Encounters and Local Delights
One of the things I love most about Lisbon is its ability to surprise you. Make your trip to Lisbon memorable with these unique experiences.
Concerts Under the Sun
Check out the concert listings at Arco do Cego near Saldanha. This park is a hub for open-air concerts during the summer, offering a fantastic way to enjoy live music with locals.
Piggy in the Park?!
Speaking of Arco do Cego, you might be surprised to encounter a certain four-legged resident - a pig that I affectionately think of as "O Porco da Saldanha." This little oinker loves playing with the dogs in the park, adding a touch of the unexpected to your day and a smile to your face.
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Lisbon in August is a whirlwind of unforgettable experiences. From beating the heat in style to savoring sunset sips and making space for unexpected encounters, this city will capture your heart.
Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an August adventure you won't soon forget!
Still trying to decide when to visit Lisbon. Check out our month-by-month recommendations.
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