Lisbon Guide for Runners

Race Information

The Lisbon Half and Full Marathon offers runners the unique chance to cross the Vasco de Gama bridge on foot, the only time of year you can do so. Here is everything you need to know for race day.

Bib Pick-Up and Expo

Runners can get their gear on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday before the race, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

MEO Arena

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Look for the Seaside Sport Expo located at the Altice (MEO) Arena in Lisbon.

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Half Marathon Start

The race starts at 10:30 AM on the Vasco de Gama Bridge. To access the starting line runners must take a race shuttle.

Shuttle Information and Location:

Centro Vasco da Gama

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The shuttles will be departing from the Vasco de Gama Shopping Center from 7:30AM to 9:30AM. Runners can reach the shopping center via free public transportation, just show your bib.

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Marathon Start

The race starts at 8 AM at Av. da República in Cascais. 

Avenida da República

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To get to the start you can take any public transportation for free – just show your bib. The free transportation will be available from 6:15 AM to 5 PM.

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Finish Line

Both races end at Praça do Comércio, taking runners under the arch and into the finish.

Praça do Comércio

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If you are in the plaza facing the arch, the half marathon runners will be on the right side, and the marathon runners on the left.

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Important Note: In 2023, the organizers decided to move this race up by two hours and did not email runners until almost 9PM the night before, despite having posted the announcement at the expo in the afternoon. Since posting at the expo, the local running community was able to pass the message amongst each other, but it did not make its way to those who traveled in. Thousands of runners missed the start. While I doubt this will happen again, if it does I will be posting about it on my Instagram - @jetsetting_runner.

Where to Eat

Throughout this food section, I will mark some restaurants as Vegetarian Friendly. While this does not mean the restaurant is meat-free, it does guarantee a wide variety of vegetarian options.

Portuguese Food:

Lisbon Tu e Eu

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($$) With two locations in Alfama, this traditional restaurant is known for its delicious takes on the classics. I highly recommend the Bacalhau à Brás. At the end of the night you will even get a chance to sign the wall with your name. You can’t make a reservation here, so I would suggest trying to go early to guarantee that you will have a seat without waiting.

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A Cozinha - Sr. Lisboa

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($$$) Offering traditional Portuguese tascas (similar to tapas) with an elevated twist. I honestly can’t pick a favorite here, and every time I go I make a slightly different selection of tascas. The original location, Sr. Lisboa, has more of a focus on traditional Portuguese meats and seafoods. For Sr. Lisboa, I would recommend making a reservation.

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O Jardim Sr Lisboa

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($$$/Vegetarian Friendly) Offering traditional Portuguese tascas (similar to tapas) with a garden-based twist. I honestly can’t pick a favorite here, and every time I go I make a slightly different selection of tascas.

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Chapitô à Mesa

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($$) This restaurant located right below the castle has some of the best views in the city and delicious Portuguese food. Enter via their small gift store and head down the stairs to find amazing food, music, and views. Since this is a restaurant that has wonderful food and views, you will need to make a reservation.

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Traditional Restaurants ($): If you want to find a great spot to eat in any neighborhood, look for a restaurant that hasn’t had its interior updated since 1980. These hidden spots typically carry some of the most traditional food options in the city, and for much less. They most likely won’t have a menu in English, so be ready to translate with your phone. You will also need to make sure you have cash, as it is 50/50 on if they will accept international credit cards.

Italian Food:

Leonetta

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($$/Vegetarian Friendly) This Italian restaurant is located in the heart of Principe Real. Primarily pasta dishes, with a selection of appetizers and desserts, everyone in your group should be able to find something to their liking (unless they are gluten free). Make sure to try the cocktail menu as well! They offer a wide variety of specialized drinks, and have a great espresso martini option on their dessert menu.

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Libertà Kitchen

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($$$/Vegetarian Friendly) This upscale Italian restaurant provides some of my favorite Italian dishes in Lisbon with a rotating seasonal menu designed to always have the freshest ingredients. I can’t tell you what the best item is, because I don’t know what the menu will look like in the next month. Make sure to call ahead to book your table, as this restaurant does fill up fast.

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Asian Food:

Panda Cantina

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($) This popular Lisbon chain has locations across the city and a simple but delicious variety of ramen. Be warned they are not messing about with their spices. I like spice, I go through a bottle of Piri Piri oil every month. But the “3" spice level I ordered here made me cry. There are no reservations, so be prepared to wait if you decide to head here for dinner (lunch is usually better).

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Jesus é Goês

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($$) I originally found this spot thanks to the Netflix Show “Feed Phil”, but it quickly became one of my favorites in the city. You won’t find traditional Indian cuisine here, but creative variations from the mind of the founder and chef, Jesus. Sadly, he passed away in 2023, but the restaurant lives on in the hands of his friends and wait staff.

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Mexican Food:

Coyo Taco Príncipe Real

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($$) I don’t think it’s possible for me to be more obsessed with the guacamole at this restaurant. That alone would secure the recommendation, but I also love the tacos, quesadillas, and burritos on offer here. With two locations in Principe Real and Cais do Sodre, you should be able to easily secure a table.

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Quick Bites:

Sandwich Club by BouBou's

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($$ / Vegetarian Friendly) Have you ever wished for an octopus hotdog? Or another creative take on a classic sandwich? This spot has an amazing menu that isn’t afraid to blend spices and cuisines from around the world into their sandwiches. You can eat there on the patio, or take your food to go and head up to Jardim do Principe Real.

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Honest Greens

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($ / Vegetarian Friendly) If you want a fast and healthy meal, Honest Greens is your choice. Select your protein (I love the piri piri chicken) and a side, and they will bring it out to you within 15 minutes. There are locations across the city, and the menu is updated seasonally to ensure the freshest ingredients.

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100 Montaditos Cais do Sodré

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($) This Spanish chain offers 100 different flavors of montaditos (or finger sandwiches) for you to order from. Before getting in line, grab and menu and make your picks, because the options are endless. I recommend getting 3-4 sandwiches depending on how hungry you are.

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Bifanas:

O Trevo

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($/Cash only) The bifana is the original Portuguese fast food. The simple sandwich is created by putting a few slices of fried pork on a freshly baked role. Add mayonnaise, mustard, or hot sauce, and grab a seat in Largo do Chiado to enjoy a sandwich from this Anthony Bourdain recommended restaurant.

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The Bifanas of Afonso

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($/Cash only) On the other side of the city, you will find Bifanas do Afonso. A similar vibe as O Trevo, you take your sandwich to go and enjoy it sitting in the square or while walking around.

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Brunch:

Zenith

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($/Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly) This is probably one of the most popular brunch spots in the city, so only come here on week days if you don’t want to wait. I have tried many items from this menu, and have never been lead astray. They also have a location in Porto if you are traveling there during your trip to Portugal.

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Nicolau Lisboa

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($) Nicalau – along with sister restaurants Amelia and Olivia – offer a wonderful array of nicely priced brunch options. Amelia and Olivia are a bit further from the city center and have shorter waits as a result.

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Dear Breakfast

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($$) Another popular brunch spot, this restaurant offers all of the classic brunch items, and does it well. The brunch menus are a great option, with a wide variety of foods for a low price. I would recommend getting a reservation here.

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Magnolia Bistrot & Winebar

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($$/Vegetarian Friendly) Brunch or lunch, this is your spot. This restaurant has perfected the idea that a small menu is better. Last time I went here, there were about ten items on the menu, with two of them including meat. This is a seasonal menu, so the exact ratio of vegetarian options may change. If you can, call ahead for a reservation, as the small fresco covered space can fill up quickly.

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Remote work cafes:

Tomorrow at 9 Cafe

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($$) Another restaurant that isn’t afraid to blend different flavors, this is a great spot to get some work done in Lisbon. I really love the chicken wasabi burger.

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Copenhagen Coffee Lab - Baixa

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($) With locations across the city, and more popping up daily, this chain is a great spot to check your emails and get some work done. Try the creamy cinnamon roll, it’s my secret obsession.

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Simpli Coffee Chiado

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($) Grab some lunch and plug in, this chain is perfect for remote work and has a wonderful selection of teas and coffees.

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Vegan Meals:

The Green Affair - Chiado

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($$) Hands down my favorite for a nice lunch, this spot is comfortable and spacious with relaxing decor and amazing food. With locations across Lisbon, this restaurant is one of my favorites for vegan and vegetarian food. They also have an amazing selection of wines to pair with your meal.

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Organi Chiado

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($$) It’s the ultimate Lisbon experience, eating on a staircase. This vegan restaurant specializes in farm to table, with a menu that changes with the season. Book ahead to reserve outdoor seating, either the stairs or in the courtyard, and enjoy your meal.

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Vegan Junkies

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($$) Who said everything vegan must be healthy? This restaurant has some of the best fried options in the entire city, vegan or not. If you are looking for a variety of vegan options from sandwiches, to nachos, and more, this is your spot.

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Vegan Desserts:

Scoop n Dough

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($) Scoop ’n Dough is truly on the next level. Repeatedly ranking as some of the best Vegan Donuts in the world, you must make a stop here for delicious donuts and ice cream. I love the original and lemon poppy seed donuts the best, but they are all great.

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Vegan Nata Chiado

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($) Portugal is the country of pastel de nata, but this cream and egg based dessert is hard to replicate as a vegan option. However, this little cafe has pulled off what should be impossible. This is a must stop location for any vegans in Lisbon.

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Bars:

Bica Sour

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($$) Located on the famous Bica Street, this cozy bar has an amazing selection of cocktails and food. My favorite cocktail is the Strawberry and Basil Caipirinha, but I will say it is on the sweet side.

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Procópio Bar

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($$) Hidden away in a small courtyard, open the red door to find yourself in a bar filled with unique antique decor. The cocktails here are amazing, and the waitstaff is very knowledgeable about the entire menu and can help guide your decisions.

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Jam Club

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($$) This is a great choice to start your night out if you are solo traveling or in a small group. The bar focuses on community based seating, and encourages everyone to chat and meet the other people at their table. Located in the Bairro Alto, this bar has a convenient location as you prepare to continue your night.

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Sneaky Sip

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($$) This speak easy style bar has some of the most unique drinks I have ever found in Lisbon. The bar staff held nothing back, creating drinks based around exotic fruits, corn, and duck fat.

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What to Do in Lisbon:

Green Spaces

Estufa Fria

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The greenhouse looks like something out of a fairy tale. Perfect for a quick photoshoot, taking a moment to relax outside of the city, or playing Princess (there is a tower that could be in Rapunzel). Conveniently located in Parque Eduardo (blue metro line), this is a must see for anyone looking to take a reset during their Lisbon vacation.

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Jardim da Estrela

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This public park is a great stop near the Basilica da Estrela, Portuguese Parliament and along the 28 Tram route. With a playground for kids, and a beautiful Basilica to visit across the street it’s perfect for everyone.

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Garden of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

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This art museum and garden is a tranquil escape from the city (without actually leaving the city). The museum covers all periods and types of arts, having once been a private collection before becoming a museum. The museum does have an entrance fee, but the garden is free.

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Museums

Castelo de São Jorge

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This castle overlooking Lisbon is a great spot for panoramic views of the city. While you explore, pay attention overhead as there are always lots of peacocks in the trees. The stone here can get a bit slippery on rainy days, so make sure you are aware of where you step. There is also a small museum filled with artifacts from the archeological digs that have occurred here over the centuries.

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Museum Aljube Resistência e Liberdade

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Only 50 years ago, Portugal was ruled by a fascist dictatorship. This museum covers the history of that period, from the end of the monarchy, to the dictatorship, and finally the peaceful resolution. While it is a great museum to learn and understand Portuguese history and culture, I would not suggest this for children.

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Tours

Lisbon Hills Red Tram Tour 

I’m sure in your Lisbon research you have found mention of the famous 28 Tram route. But have you found mention of what it is actually like on board? The tram quickly fills with tourists and pick pockets, and is not an enjoyable way to see the city. However, in the last few years a new option has emerged. The Hills Red Tram Tour follows the same path as the 28 Tram, but guarantees every passenger a seat on the historic tram, and a pre-recorded audio guide. This tour is a bit pricier than the original 28 Tram, but here you won’t run the risk of being pick pocketed.  

Boat Tour

There are many amazing boat tours that you can take to explore Lisbon and Belem, the two most popular are the Lisboat and HippoTrip. You can also book a private sunset cruise, walk along the water near Cais do Sodre and you will find several options. 

Churches

Lisbon Cathedral

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The most famous of Lisbon’s churches, the Sé was once the home of Saint António, the patron Saint of Lisbon. The Sé is closed to tourists on Sunday’s so make sure you plan accordingly.

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Church of Saint Anthony of Lisbon

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Across the street from the church is a smaller and free church that is said to be the birthplace of Saint António. You can head down to the crypt to see the exact location.

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Basilica of Estrela

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Located next to the Jardim da Estrela, the Basilica offers amazing views of the city from its roof. Within the walls of the Basilica you can find the Tomb of Queen Maria I, one of the only members of the Bragança line not buried in Igreja de São Vicente de Fora.

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Igreja de São Vicente de Fora

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This gorgeous monastery holds amazing tile work, unique museum exhibits, and the tombs of 98% of the Bragança Dynasty. One of three dynasties that rules during the time of Portuguese monarchies, the Braganças gained power in 1640 following the end of the Iberian Unification, and lost power in 1910 when the people overthrew the monarchy.

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Jerónimos Monastery

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If you are visiting in the off-season this church is a great place to go. But in the peak-season, avoid unless you like lines. The Monastery portion is paid, but the church itself is free to enter and see the tombs of Vasco da Gama, a famous Portuguese explorer, and Luís de Camões, a poet who is often compared to Shakespeare and Dante.

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Miradouros

The hills of Lisbon provide amazing opportunities for gorgeous views and sunsets over the Tejo, here are a few of my favorite Miradouros (or viewpoints) across the city.

Miradouro da Graça

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This viewpoint is worth a note because there is an inclined tram directly to the top. If you want to see the views, without walking up hills this is a great choice. There is also a small wine and snack bar at the top so you can grab a seat and wait for sunset.

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Miradouro da Senhora do Monte

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The tallest viewpoint in the city, you will need to be prepared for a hike to reach this point. But that hike pays off when you get to see the amazing sunset colors streaking across the Tejo, over the April 25th Bridge, and behind the hills of Chiado and Estrela.

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Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara

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Located in the heart of Principe Real, this viewpoint frequently has food and vendor stalls set up to celebrate different holidays. If you are traveling with kids this is also a great stop to see massive bubbles being blown on warm days.

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Miradouro de Santa Catarina

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Near Bica Street, this viewpoint can get very crowded very quickly. It has the benefit of facing towards the sunset, without needing to climb a mountain, so many people will come here for the sunset. If you want to join them be sure to arrive early to grab a seat.

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Miradouro de Santa Luzia

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Probably the most Instagramable viewpoint in the city, Santa Luzia is covered in beautiful blue azulejos (tiles), and has plenty of greenery to allow for stunning photos. Continue up the hill from the Sé to reach this location.

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Shopping

Cork Products:

Cork & Co

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Located in Chiado, this store has a great selection of cork products and an informational video that you can watch on how cork is harvested and used.

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Cork House

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Next to the Martim Moniz metro stop is the Cork House. This store has a wide selection of Cork products from table coverings, to bags, and accessories. You will absolutely be able to find a gift for everyone on your list here.

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Tiles and Ceramics

Cerâmicas na Linha

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This is honestly one of my favorite ceramic shops in Lisbon, 90% of my houseware is from this store. This is the perfect store to buy hand made ceramics, like espresso glasses, for your family.

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Cortiço & Netos

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If you spend a few days walking around Lisbon, you will probably find cheap tiles for sale on the street. Don’t buy these. They were sourced from the sides of buildings across the city. This shop got their product ethically and legally from tile factories that were closing down or discontinuing select patterns. The prices are also very affordable.

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Other Gift Ideas

Benamôr 1925

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One of the oldest beauty brands in Portugal, a small tube of hand lotion, or other product is a great gift to bring home. I prefer the jacaranda scent, if you want to go all in on the Portuguese nature.

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Livraria Bertrand - Chiado

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The oldest bookstore in the world, this is a great stop to grab a gift for your book obsessed friends and family.

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A Grocery Store

I have two gifts I like to pick up at the grocery store before heading to the states. The first is a can of sardines, yes, you can get these at other locations, but the ones in the grocery store are the least expensive. I also like to grab a small bottle of the Gallo Piri Piri oil. This is very spicy, but a great way to bring a bit of Portugal home (and it’s small enough for carry on only!). 

More Resources

Thank you for taking the time to read this, if you have any more questions please feel free to reach out to sadie@jetsettingrunner.com for help. 

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