Kimncal in Lisboa: 5 Spots From the Video

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Planning notes for Lisbon

Must-try foods in Lisbon

• Pastel de Nata
  Pastel de NataThe quintessential Lisbon egg custard tart, characterized by its flaky, multi-layered puff pastry and a scorched, caramelized top. While the historic Pastéis de Belém remains the 'classic' pilgrimage, locals in 2026 are increasingly frequenting Manteigaria or the newer Castro for their consistently warm, cinnamon-dusted centers and superior crunch.
• Bacalhau à Brás
  Bacalhau à BrásWidely considered Lisbon's soul food, this dish consists of shredded salted cod (bacalhau) sautéed with thinly sliced matchstick potatoes, onions, and scrambled eggs. It is garnished with black olives and fresh parsley. For a refined 2026 experience, top-tier versions are found at Casa do Bacalhau or traditional tascas like O Velho Eurico.
• Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato
  Amêijoas à Bulhão PatoA classic Lisbon seafood appetizer named after a 19th-century poet. These fresh clams are steamed in a fragrant emulsion of high-quality olive oil, garlic, cilantro, and lemon juice. It is an essential 'petisco' (snack) often enjoyed with bread to soak up the sauce at iconic institutions like Cervejaria Ramiro.
• Polvo à Lagareiro
  Polvo à LagareiroA traditional masterpiece featuring tender, oven-roasted octopus drenched in 'lagareiro' style olive oil and plenty of garlic. It is typically served with 'batatas a murro' (punched potatoes) that have been smashed to better absorb the oil. This dish is a staple of the city's modern-traditional crossover restaurants like Pica-Pau.
• Arroz de Marisco
  Arroz de MariscoUnlike dry Spanish paella, Lisbon’s seafood rice is 'malandrinho'—soupy and rich. It is packed with prawns, clams, mussels, and often crab or monkfish, flavored with a base of tomato, bell peppers, and cilantro. In 2026, finding a version that uses sustainable local catch is the hallmark of a world-class Lisbon eatery.
• Pataniscas de Bacalhau
  Pataniscas de BacalhauCrispy, flat codfish fritters that differ from the cylindrical 'bolinhos.' These are made with a batter of flour, eggs, and shredded cod, often seasoned with onion and parsley. They are a beloved local lunch staple, traditionally served alongside 'arroz de feijão' (red bean rice) in neighborhood spots across Graça and Alfama.

Trip guide

• About Lisbon
  About LisbonLisbon, the capital of Portugal, is situated on seven hills along the Tagus River and has a documented history of human settlement dating back to the 8th century BC. As of 2026, the city remains defined by its historical districts and architectural evolution, notably influenced by the Roman and Moorish periods, as well as the 1755 earthquake.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Lisbon is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to October), when you can enjoy mild, sunny weather and fewer crowds. For the best value, visit during the off-peak winter months (November to February), which remain relatively mild and sunny compared to the rest of Europe despite occasional rain.
• Getting around
  Getting around Lisbon

  • Lisbon Metro (Subway) The Red Line (Linha Vermelha) connects Lisbon Airport directly to the city center in approximately 20 minutes. It operates from 6:30 AM to 1:00 AM daily and requires a rechargeable Navegante card (0.50€) for travel.
  • Trams and Funiculars Iconic yellow vintage trams like the E28 navigate the steep, narrow streets of historic districts like Alfama. Funiculars such as the Glória or Bica are essential for ascending the city's famous seven hills without.
  • Ride-Hailing and Taxis Uber, Bolt, and Free Now are widely available and often more convenient than public transport for reaching hilly neighborhoods like Graça. Official taxis are beige or black-and-green and must use a meter by law for all.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Wear sturdy, rubber-soled shoes to safely navigate the city's steep hills and notoriously slippery limestone cobblestones.
  • Be aware that appetizers placed on your table, such as bread and olives, are not free and you will be charged for whatever you consume.
  • Carry a small amount of cash daily, as many traditional neighborhood 'tascas' and smaller shops do not accept credit cards.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Lisbon

  • MACAM (Museu de Arte Contemporânea Armando Martins): A major new contemporary art museum and 5-star hotel opening in Belém, housing over 600 works from the 1970s to today.
  • Beato Innovation District: The ongoing transformation of the city's eastern waterfront into a massive creative and tech hub.
• Visit Lisboa↗
  Visit LisboaThe official tourism website for Lisbon, managed by the Turismo de Lisboa Visitors & Convention Bureau, providing travel guides, event info, and the Lisboa Card.