Penha da França
Because I want to peel back the layers of life in Lisbon.
You’ll love this...
Ditch the tourist shuffle, the panhandlers and pickpockets, and venture up the Tagus to Penha da França. Find your local Tasca (restaurant), get down with the locals.
But you won’t love this...
It’s a residential spot, and not so central. Public transportation is limited. The bus is your best bet.
Will I like living here?...
This laid-back Lisbon parish sits 110 meters above sea level and runs right down to the Tagus river. Penha de França has a traditional, stately aura. It’s home to middle- and upper-class families, many of which have lived here for generations.
And if you’re bored...
Cemiterio do Alto de Sao Joao: Pay your respects to the dead. Walk among the marble mausoleums, shrines and temples of Lisbon’s largest cemetery.
Google rating: 6.6/6 And this Google review nails it: “A fascinating labyrinth of lanes, mausoleums and memorials to the dead, set on a hill among trees and with a view of the Tagus river. A peaceful escape from the city.”
Anything else?
An inexpensive meal isn’t hard to find in the Tascas and Cervejarias of Penha da França. There are some lovely apartments available too, and you get excellent bang for your buck!
And did you know?…
The residents of Penha da França are well known for putting in a strong showing at the annual Santos Populares parade.
Each parish delivers a theme-based performance, in an effort to win over the judges and claim the glory and bragging rights over bitter rivals in neighbouring barrios.
Move here to be near:
* São João Cemetery
* Avenida General Roçadas
* Miradouro do Monte Agudo
* Museu Nacional do Azulejo (tile museum!)
Getting to and from the airport...
You can take a taxi from Lisbon Airport. It will cost you roughly €15 and takes about 20 minutes.
Need to know more? Find all the stats you need here:
* The World’s Healthiest Cities
* Equality in Europe
