Hidden Gems of Lisbon: Non-Touristy Places Worth Visiting

Lisbon attracts tourists with its famous landmarks like the Belém Tower (Torre de Belém), Jerónimos Monastery (Mosteiro dos Jerónimos), the Alfama District, the Fado Museum (Museu do Fado), the Santa Justa Lift (Elevador de Santa Justa), and the Castle of São Jorge (Castelo de São Jorge). These places are part of most tourist routes, so it’s no surprise they get a lot of attention. However, there are also parts of Lisbon that remain outside of standard guides. These hidden gems offer a quieter, more authentic way to experience the city.

Lisbon’s non-touristy places give you the chance to see the city without the crowds, dive into its atmosphere, and feel like a true explorer. Here, you can enjoy the calm of gardens, discover unique museums, and stroll through neighborhoods where time seems to stand still. These places may not be as well-known, but that’s what makes them special. They preserve the spirit of old Lisbon, which is hard to feel in the more popular tourist zones.

Centro Cultural de Belém, MAC/CCB

The Cultural Center of Belém, located in the Belém district of Lisbon, is a complex of art spaces. The architectural center, Garagem Sul, integrated into MAC/CCB, enhances the dialogue between visual arts, architecture, and performing arts. It is the largest building with cultural facilities in Portugal, with over 140,000 m² of usable space.

Calouste Gulbenkian Museum and garden

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The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum, also known as the "Five Percent Hermitage" in Lisbon, is a significant cultural institution that attracts many art enthusiasts. The museum is renowned for its impressive collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, rare manuscripts, and decorative art objects. Particularly noteworthy are the collections of works by Rubens, Greek amphorae, and Oriental rugs. Additionally, the museum features the Gulbenkian concert hall, where classical music concerts are regularly held. A few years ago, a competition was held for the expansion of the museum garden and the creation of a new entrance to the Modern Art Center, which was won by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. A few years ago, a competition was held to design the expansion of the museum garden and the creation of a new entrance to the Centre for Contemporary Art, which was won by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.

Underdogs Gallery

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The contemporary art scene thrives at Underdogs Gallery in Marvila, part of our "Art Marvila District" route. A visit here pairs well with other nearby galleries for a comprehensive experience.

Lisbon Botanical Garden and Tropical Botanical Garden

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If the botanical garden is not overlooked, the tropical botanical garden is unjustifiably less popular, but both gardens are well worth their entrance fee.

Marvila district and 8 Marvila

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Marvila 8 is a multicultural space in Lisbon that is increasingly complete, incorporating all formats from gastronomy to sports. Today, Marvila 8 includes: Luísa Pereira da Fonseca Art Gallery; Napo Runa and RO Archive Design: Decor and design stores; Anomaly and Black Mamba: Second-hand clothing stores; Planta Livre for Home: A plant store; Cuba nº160: A wine shop; Bar à Boca do Mato; Scoop n' Dough: A donut and ice cream shop; and, of course, eight courts for padel and pickleball.

Embaixada

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Embaixada Shopping Gallery is a well-known spot in Príncipe Real. Beyond offering a curated selection of local brands, this location immerses visitors in one of the most authentic spaces in Lisbon. Housed in a 19th-century neo-Arab palace, Embaixada perfectly blends historical architecture with contemporary retail.

Lisbon Libraries

Municipal Library of St Lazarus, Library of the Conde d’Óbidos Palace and Galveias Palace Library – city and district libraries with unique architecture and beautiful interiors.

Visiting these places will enrich your time in Lisbon and give you unique memories. You’ll better understand and feel the city, moving beyond the typical tourist experience to discover its true beauty. Hidden gems of Lisbon are your opportunity to see more than just the famous sights and connect with the authentic atmosphere of this amazing city.

Our guide focuses on local attractions that help you experience the unique side of exploring Lisbon. Find more ideas in the free Salute Local Guide to Lisbon or the paid subscription version.