Portas Largas
Type: Bar, Gay and Lesbian, Late Night / After Hours, Live Music, Local Picks, Nightlife District, Pub, Pub Crawl
10Best Says
Everybody knows Portas Largas – the "Large Doors". This is one of Bairro Alto's most celebrated bars, a magnet for a predominantly young, gay-friendly crowd from all over the world. Its origins as a... Read More
Everybody knows Portas Largas – the "Large Doors". This is one of Bairro Alto's most celebrated bars, a magnet for a predominantly young, gay-friendly crowd from all over the world. Its origins as a fado house are still apparent, with an azulejo (tile) panel depicting a singer and musician decorating one end of the bar. Battered old furniture and a slightly scruffy ambiance only add to the building's wonderfully ad hoc appeal. This place positively heaves during the summer months and ordering one of the famous caipirinha or mojito cocktails over the counter can be challenge. Once served, it's best to escape the sweaty interior and join the throng outside on Rua da Atalaia. The vibe is overwhelmingly friendly and laid back, more so at night when there's usually an African or Brazilian combo providing a live, hip-swaying soundtrack.
Hours:
- Sun-Thu: 5pm-2am
- Fri-Sat: 5pm-3am Hours; May; Vary; Seasonally
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Paul Bernhardt
Lisbon Local Expert
- Bairro Alto/Principe Real's Best Bars, Bars: "Arrive around 8pm on weekends for a spot of peace and quiet because by midnight the place is heaving."
- Best for Bairro Alto/Principe Real's Best Bars Because: A great Bairro Alto institution, Portas Largas is the neighbourhood's nightlife focus: many pub crawls begin here, and often end here, too.
- Best for Bars Because: Their caipirnha cocktails are so large you need both hands to lift them off the bar.
