Markets have been hosted in Lisbon for hundreds of years and are now an important element of the city’s daily life. On Saturdays and Sundays, residents and visitors mix with elite chefs at produce markets, fashion shoppers haggle over vintage clothing and jewellery at vintage clothing shows, and DJs battle it out with record collectors at flea markets in search of rare vinyl records.
Considering that many of Lisbon’s biggest and best markets occupy vast ancient buildings or take up entire neighbourhoods, plan on dedicating a few hours to finding the best discounts.
Feira do Relógio
While this vast Sunday street market on an immense roundabout in the residential neighbourhood of Olivais is a little off the beaten path, it is a big draw for locals and tourists alike (take the Metro to Bela Vista). It is the largest street market in the city of Lisbon. Prepare to arrive early in order to get the greatest deals, and bring lots of durable shopping bags because you will be able to fill them with everything from fresh fruit and flowers to antiques, discounted apparel, and electricals. There’s even furniture if you have the means to bring it back to your house or office.
It is the city’s largest market. With largely clothing and food on offer, this is a flea market for the locals rather than a flea market where you’ll find wonderful old antiques to take home with you. However, if you want to witness a different, more rowdy side of Lisbon life, this is a terrific place to go.
Av. Santo Condestável WC, 1950-011 Lisboa, Portugal
Feira da Ladra
It’s impossible to talk about shopping in Lisbon without mentioning the Feira da Ladra, sometimes known as the “thieves’ market.”
This isn’t a hub of crime or stolen goods, but rather a massive twice-weekly flea market that spans many mountainous lanes on the outskirts of Alfama. It has been in operation in some form or another since the 13th century, and it has been in this location since the late 1800s.
Expect to find anything, including arts and antiques, handcrafted jewellery, and old records, but beware of inflated “tourist prices” that may be charged.
Mercado de Santa Clara
The Mercado de Santa Clara began as a food market adjacent to the large Feira da Ladra flea market in the steep alleyways of the ancient Alfama area. Since then, it has been expanded to include a Center for Culinary Arts and nearby shops selling crafts and antiques. You’re certain to locate delectables for an outside lunch.
After visiting the Sao Vicente de Fora Church to admire the remarkable tiled interior, set up your lunch in the little park in front of the Santa Engrácia Church (a.k.a. the National Pantheon).
Mercado de Benfica
Perhaps the balls hit around at the nearby famous football stadium inspired the domed appearance of this slightly brutalist 1970s-built market in one of Lisbon’s oldest residential neighbourhoods to the north.
Even if you’re not in the mood to shop, it’s a fantastic snapshot of city life: one of Lisbon’s largest and cheapest markets. However, with the variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood, as well as the allure of delectable baked products and freshly cut flowers, you’re likely to purchase something wonderful.
Anjos 70 Market
Budget-conscious style buyers flock to this colourful weekly flea market in the newly gentrified Anjos neighbourhood. It’s been a decade at Anjos 70, a disused glass warehouse converted into a cultural centre (recent events have included DJ sets and breakfast discos). You’ll find over 100 merchants from around Portugal selling creative home furnishings and memorabilia, as well as vintage clothing and hand-crafted accessories, in this split-level venue.
Mercado de Campo de Ourique
Since the 1930s, this attractive domed structure has housed a vegetable market. Following a substantial renovation in 2013, it has been transformed into a location for live music, lengthy lunches, and shopping, with cured meats, locally produced cheeses, and fresh fruit among the culinary delicacies. It’s located in one of the city’s nicest residential areas, just a short walk from the Basilica da Estrela, and the communal dining room is an ideal spot for refuelling. For delectable hummus, visit Levante Kitchen, or Atalho for world-class steaks. Additionally, there is a wine bar to entice you to attend.
