Lisbon ’s nightlife is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and, judging by the plethora of clubs that are tucked away, the locals would like to keep it so. The bar scene in the Bairro Alto district attracts a diverse and thronging crowd from early evening until after midnight. Thursday to Saturday nights are generally the busiest with many venues closed on Sunday (to recover!).

Clubs – Generally open at 11:30pm, get going 1-2am and close at about 5-6am. A host of options but the cream venue currently is Lux. Other mainstays are Frágil, Kremlin and Capital. Drinks are generally quite expensive and it is common to be given a ticket that is stamped by bar staff on ordering each drink and you pay on exit. Dress smart!

Bars – The epicentre of the city’s bar scene is Bairro Alto but the Docas and Santa Apolónia areas also have plenty to offer.

Shows – Fado (a kind of Portuguese Blues), is popular but is an acquired taste. Brazilian and Jazz are other popular choices with several venues citywide. If staying on the Lisbon Coast, the Estoril Casino is a good option with a nightly international show & dinner and plenty of gaming options.