Traditions and customs in Lisbon

1. Fado

Melancholic song accompanied by Portuguese guitar, born in Lisbon's dockside quarters and UNESCO-listed.

• Where: Alfama and Mouraria
• Tip: Silence is expected while singing. Restaurants that let people talk through it are not serious fado houses.

2. Azulejo tilework

Painted tin-glazed tiles covering church interiors, palaces and ordinary façades across the city.

3. Santo António festivities

In June, Alfama and Graça fill with sardine grills, paper decorations and all-night street parties.

• Best time: 12–13 June

4. Ginjinha at a hole-in-the-wall

Sour cherry liqueur drunk as a shot, with or without a cherry, from tiny standing bars.

• Cost: EUR 1.50–2.50

5. Miradouro culture

The city's viewpoints function as public living rooms, with kiosks selling drinks at each of them.

• Best time: Sunset