Chiado, Lisbon guide

The Igreja da Encarnação is a stunning example of a Neoclassical church. And the 18th-century organ at Basílica dos Mártires is a work of art in its own right. For an example of how destructive the 1755 earthquake was, visit Convento do Carmo. Its roof collapsed and was never replaced, but the remnants of the 14th-century landmark are an uncanny relic.

Lisbon is loaded with cafes, and Chiado has some of the best. Order a ‘bica’ (a shot of espresso) at A Brasileira, one of the city’s oldest cafes. Then pose beside the statue of Fernando Pessoa, Portugal’s beloved poet. Founded in 1868, Pastelaria Benard is famous for its warm croissants and pastries. For a good choice of outdoor cafes, head to nearby Rua Augusta.

After the 1988 Chiado fire, Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza Vieira was commissioned to help rebuild the affected parts of the neighbourhood. What he did was make it better, creating a maze of winding walkways connecting some of the city’s top attractions. Wander through the Carmo do Largo square to appreciate his creative vision and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

Just beyond Chiado’s northern edge, you’ll find plenty to occupy the kids. The Lisbon Botanical Gardens has well-manicured pathways framed by enormous palm trees — an ideal spot for a stroll. Right next to the gardens is the National Museum of Natural History and Science, which boasts two floors packed with interactive exhibits, plus a game room for some hands-on activity time.

Explore art indoors and outdoors at the museums in Chiado. A highlight is the National Museum of Contemporary Art (MNAC). Work your way through this former convent building to see a range of Portuguese art from the late 19th century to today, including works by artists like Angela Ferriera and Julio Pomar. On the streets, look for the murals of Utopia, aka Brazilian-born artist Oliveiros Junior.

The best restaurants in Chiado capture the many different moods of the neighbourhood. Dine on ‘petiscos’ (small snacks similar to croquettes) and pastries such as the famous ‘pastéis de nata’ (flaky egg custard tart). Come dinnertime, find homey Portuguese dishes like ‘caldo verde’ (a comforting soup of kale, linguiça sausage and potatoes) in laid-back cafes. Or go all out at one of the neighbourhood’s Michelin-starred restaurants.

You can’t come to Lisbon without sipping its famous native liqueur, ‘ginjinha’, a sweet combination of brandy, sour cherries, cinnamon and sugar. Order a glass at legendary A Ginjinha, going strong since 1840, on Largo São Domingos. Chiado’s bar scene is a combination of quirky and luxe. Pop into a low-key cocktail lounge or head to one of the neighbourhood’s upscale rooftop bars.

For a little of everything, head to Armazéns do Chiado, a sprawling complex with around 50 Portuguese and international shops, plus many restaurants worth a stop. To experience the world’s oldest continuously operating bookstore, check out Livraria Bertrand, which opened in 1732. And if a beach day is on the itinerary, snag a new swimsuit at Cantê.

Fado, the legendary Portuguese music genre, has a strong presence here. Catching an evening performance at one of the local concert halls is a must. In May, the neighbourhood hosts some of the events for Lisbon Design Week, when studios open their doors to the public. Chiado celebrates summer with concerts and street performances for all ages during the popular Festival dos Oceanos in August.