Bica is a neighbourhood located in the centre of old Lisbon in the Santa Catarina parish. This location is just steps away from the Tagus River, next to the neighbourhoods of Chiado and Bairro Alto. This is the ideal place to visit if you are looking to experience the historical charm of the streets of Lisbon.
Bica Lift
There are four funiculars in Lisbon: Lavra, Glória, Santa Justa and Bica Lift. Although the original funiculars were brown and hydro-powered, they are now yellow and powered by electricity. This is a fun mode of public transportation that offers splendid views. The Bica Funicular was opened in 1892 and is the longest of all the four lifts. It was constructed by Raoul Mesnier de Ponsard, connecting ‘Calçada do Combro and ‘S. Paulo Street’, crossing ‘Bica de Duarte Belo’, one of Lisbon's most photographed street framed by coloured houses. You can see hip bars at night and the Tagus River in the distance while travelling on the funicular.
Santa Catarina Belvedere
This is a beautiful viewpoint located between the Chiado and Bairro Alto districts and is popular for the stunning terrace views overlooking the Tagus River.
Camões Square
This square is named after one of Portugal’s greatest 16th-century writers and is located in the heart of Chiado. A popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike, the place is always packed with folks sitting on the steps of the poet's monument, drinking a ‘ginginha’ or beer and preparing to embark on a night out on the town.
Brasileira Café
This is a 19th century café located on Rua Garrett, beautifully decorated with wooden booths and wall mirrors. Sitting on the terrace of this café you’ll find the statue of famous 20th century Portuguese poet, Fernando Pessoa. It’s a nice place to have a coffee and sample the traditional custard tart whilst enjoying one of Lisbon’s liveliest streets.
Bairro Alto
This is the bohemian district and one of the oldest areas of town. Here you can find galleries, bars, restaurants, art schools and cool shops. At night this area gets crowded with locals and tourists enjoying the nightlife. In the old days, writers and journalists frequented this neighbourhood but it was also looked upon with suspicion due to prostitution. Nowadays it’s a neighbourhood of design hostels, trendy restaurants and lively bars.Food, Shopping and Nightilfe
This neighbourhood has plenty of restaurants to choose from, where traditional and trendy restaurants blend with one another. Popular spots for food include Calçada do Combro, Travessa das Mercês, Rua da Rosa. Check out Bairro Alto for modern international cuisine, such as Italian, Morroccan, Indian and Thai. For traditional Portuguese food head to Rua da Atalaia or Rua da Barroca.
If you’re after a little shopping, head down Rua do Norte, Rua da Rosa and Rua da Atalaia. You’ll find Portuguese designers shops and the best, original gifts to take back home with you.
If you’re after a night on the town, check out the bars and clubs around Rua do Diário de Noticias, Rua da Barroca and Rua da Atalaia. The bars close at 2am but the party continues on in the streets. Rua Bica Duarte Belo is also a nightlife hotspot with people sitting on the street-side steps, sipping drinks, chatting and enjoying themselves.
